SUBJECT
title
Request Board approve a transfer from reserves to the Sheriff's Budget for the purchase of a Kodiak fixed wing aircraft and imaging system. (Up to $5,000,000 one-time expense)
body
DESCRIPTION
The Polk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) currently utilizes a Cessna 182 fix wing aircraft without any imaging affixed for surveillance. As the county has grown, new obstacles have become apparent that are hindering surveillance operations, including Amazon flights arriving at Lakeland Linder Airport. These large commercial aircraft approach at approximately 2000 feet which is the ideal altitude to conduct surveillance with an aircraft without an imaging system. There are several incidents where surveillance has been abandoned because of this issue. An aircraft like the Kodiak, with imaging, will allow PCSO to conduct continuous surveillance in an area much longer and with better results in response to criminal activity.
Another challenge is transporting equipment, supplies, and personnel to other jurisdictions for disaster deployments. The current weight restrictions on the Cessna 182 limit the ability to provide all the equipment and supplies that are needed during these incidents. This new aircraft can carry more weight and has the unique capability of short landings and takeoffs, which can provide better assistance to members that have been deployed to disaster areas in rural locations.
The PCSO has evaluated purchase options for both new and used Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 aircrafts. Used aircrafts sell fast, but provide the best pricing opportunities, which may save between $500-700k compared to the cost of a new Kodiak 100 aircraft. PCSO is seeking Board approval to earmark $2.5 million of their returned FY 2023 budget funds to their Aviation Reserves account. They are also requesting Board approval to access up to $5 million from their aviation reserves to purchase an aircraft that will meet these discussed needs. The PCSO is currently looki...
Click here for full text