In the resolution, WPD sought to purchase 180 rifles along with any accompanying accessories — including cases and car mounts — that would be needed for the switch. According to a WPD spokesperson, the exact make and model of the rifles had not yet been identified.
WPD said it had existing funding in its current budget for 90 and would request the other half of the funding in the upcoming year’s budget. The projected cost of the transition was expected to be $510,120 over two years.
At the City’s agenda review meeting on Monday, WPD Chief Ryan Zuidema said the 12-gauge shotguns that officers are currently issued can’t hold up effectively against the heavy firepower they may encounter on patrol…