Calif. Police Department Mulls Relaunching K-9 Program

CORNING, CA — The Corning City Council will discuss restarting the K-9 program for the Corning Police Department on Tuesday.

After K-9 Blaze's handler accepted a position with the Tehama County Sheriff's Office, the council approved the agency's $8,000 purchase of K-9 Blaze in 2023, using funds from the Tehama County K-9 Foundation. Additionally, it was agreed that the city would keep Blaze's $8,000 purchase price in an account to be used in part toward a future

"K-9 teams play a crucial role in crime prevention and law enforcement," City staff said. "Their presence often helps deter criminal activity, and their specialized skills make them invaluable in tracking and apprehending suspects. The bond between the community and the police is vital, and having a K-9 unit can strengthen that connection even further."

At least three officers are interested in participating in the K-9 program and would like to move forward with K-9 Handler interviews and selection. Staff claim their enthusiasm and commitment are invaluable, and with proper training and resources, they can effectively contribute to the program's success.

The CPD would like to purchase a dog, the necessities for housing the dog, and the equipment for fitting an existing police vehicle. According to staff, the CPD would use the following funds: $8,000 set aside from the purchase of K-9 Blaze, money from the City of Corning PD K-9/PAL/Cadets bank account, and funds from outside organization fundraising.

In other business

In late September, the city received two formal Bids for the New F-150/1500/Half-Ton 4×2 Regular Cab Pickups it wants to purchase.

The council is being asked to award the vehicle purchase to Corning Ford for $88,004.00 as Corning Ford has been determined the lowest responsible and responsive bidder. The bid amount includes racks and lighting installed by the dealer and complete upfitting before delivery.

Staff allocated $108,750.00 to procure two new F-150/half-ton 4×2 Regular Cab pickup trucks and their outfitting during the fiscal year 2024 — 2025 budgeting process. The two new cars can be purchased and outfitted with the allocated funds.

The council will consider a compensation increase for City Manager Brant Mesker.

Following the completion of a performance evaluation, staff are asking the council to review and approve the first amendment to the City Manager Employment Agreement, which increases salary compensation to step C for Mesker.

The annual salary will be $139,484.80, step c of Mesker's salary schedule.

Tuesday's meeting will be in person at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 794 Third St. Meetings are free and open to the public.

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