The new Police Station design includes space for a virtual firearms simulation trainer.
Historically, firearms proficiency is demonstrated using a static paper target with no critical decision making element. Including a judgmental component into firearms training improves an officer’s ability to make decisions in various situations, including non-lethal use of force.
A number of companies manufacture ‘shoot-don’t shoot’ training platforms. Members of the Department had an opportunity to experience various vendors at police conferences and were most impressed by the robust performance of VirTra. VirTra is the only company that offers a 300 degree wrap-around firearms training simulator.
VirTra’s 300-degree wrap-around firearms training simulator enables officers to train for the most difficult real-world situations. Judgmental use of force scenarios help officers make split second decisions under stressful circumstances. Scenarios allow officers to focus on specific training objectives with multiple outcomes such as the application of de-escalation techniques or less lethal force options.
Staff diligently explored grant funding opportunities with negative results. Adequate funding is available through the Criminal Investigation Fund, Justice Seizure account, with no direct impact to the Police Department’s operating budget.
VirTra is the only company offering this type of equipment so bids were not pursued, VirTra submitted a quote for $192,030, plus shipping, based on Law Enforcement pricing. There is a small additional cost for specialized training tools, making the total expenditure $198,880. The MSRP is $215,000.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Village Board waive the competitive bidding process and approve, as a sole source, the purchase of a VirTra 300LE Simulation Trainer and required training tools in the amount of $198,880 for use by the Police Department as well as authorize execution of all necessary purchase documents. It is also recommended that the Village Board approve a budget amendment of $198,880 from the Criminal Investigation Fund using Justice Seizure funds (231.3003.511.40-11) to allocate funding for this acquisition