Laserfiche WebLink
Police Chief Bluml reviewed additional components of the proposal, including software-based <br />traffic analytics, vehicle counts, and access to a crime analysis center, enabling Ramsey analysts <br />to use the system for data analysis and research independently. Regarding funding, the Chief <br />emphasized that discussions are preliminary. The Sheriff’s Office is exploring a pilot or proof-of- <br />concept program that could span up to ten years, with multiple funding options under review, <br />including potential grants. He stated there is no confirmed funding source at this time. <br /> <br />Police Chief Bluml explained preliminary cost estimates suggest Ramsey’s financial impact would <br />be minimal, potentially only a small increase over current Flock subscription costs. Because the <br />cameras are leased annually, there is potential for a refund of the current year’s payment and little <br />to no cost for the first two years under the pilot program, pending final details. <br /> <br />Police Chief Bluml stated that his purpose in presenting the item was to inform the Council, share <br />that discussions are underway, and gather feedback and general support, noting that he was <br />interested in learning more and believes the program could be a positive direction. <br /> <br />Fire Chief Kohner explained that while the benefits of the proposed Drone as a First Responder <br />program may vary for fire services, a rapid aerial response would provide critical early situational <br />awareness. From a fire response perspective, drones could quickly help determine whether an <br />incident involves a structure fire or a grass fire, identify potential exposures, and support incident <br />planning before crews arrive on scene. <br /> <br />Fire Chief Kohner noted that the program was recently presented at a Fire Protection Council <br />meeting, where chiefs were asked only to provide feedback on whether the concept could be <br />beneficial, not to make any commitments. The response from fire chiefs was unanimous in support <br />of exploring the idea further, while emphasizing that funding considerations will be a significant <br />factor in the future. <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman asked for clarification on the drone’s operational capabilities, including its flight <br />speed, operating altitude, and whether it is equipped with audio and video recording. <br /> <br />Police Chief Bluml stated he was uncertain whether the proposed drone system includes audio <br />capability. He noted that some department-owned drones can communicate with people on scene, <br />but he could not confirm whether this specific software or drone platform supports that feature. He <br />explained that airspace restrictions, particularly near airports, constrain flight altitude. Under <br />standard conditions, drones operate below a set ceiling, with the potential to fly up to 400 feet if <br />additional radar or authorization is in place. <br /> <br />Regarding coverage, the Chief noted that the drone program would not serve the entire county. <br />Deployment areas are based on call volume and operational range, meaning higher-demand areas <br />such as Ramsey would be covered, while lower-call-volume regions would not. In response to <br />questions about speed, the Chief said no specific flight speed had been provided during the <br />presentations, though the estimated 60–90-second response time was shared at a high level. He <br />added that some details were discussed informally with program staff and remain subject to further <br />clarification. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session / January 27, 2026 <br />Page 4 of 10 <br />