COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Christopher Williams, Chief of Police
DATE: May 5, 2026
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the Acceptance of Donated Ballistic Equipment from the Santa Maria Police Council.
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the receipt of donations of ballistic equipment from the Santa Maria Police Council to enhance safety in the Santa Maria Police Department.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt a Resolution approving a donation of ballistic equipment to the City of Santa Maria Police Department from the Santa Maria Police Council; and
2. Direct the City Manager, or designee, to prepare a letter of appreciation to the Santa Maria Police Council.
BACKGROUND:
The Santa Ma ria Police Council (SMPC) is a 501(c)(3) non -profit corporation with the mission to serve and support the Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) by way of purchasing safety materials, equipment, and training for the men and women of the department over and a bove what the City’s operating budget has allocated. Since the SMPC’s formation in August 2007, they have donated many items of equipment and funded training for the SMPD.
Government Code Section 37354 provides that the City Council may accept any gift, bequest, or devise made to or for the City, or to or for any of its offices in their official capacity, or in trust for any public purpose. City Administration Memo CAM 2017-01 sets forth procedures for reviewing, accepting, and acknowledging gifts and/or donations offered to the City in order to: 1) establish compliance with the law in a consistent manner regardless of the source of the donation; 2) establish uniform procedures for the receipt of donations to the City; 3) cultivate an environment where residents and businesses want to contribute to the City’s programs and facilities; 4) promptly acknowledge and express appreciation for donations; and 5) assure donations are properly inventoried and accounted for.
DISCUSSION:
2 The donation of safety equipment includes five rifle -rated ballistic shields, three ballistic blankets, and fifteen personal body armor packages, consisting of armor plates, inserts, and plate carriers. This equipment will be used by patrol Officers, SWAT Officers, and Firearms Traini ng Instructors and is essential to safeguard officers during high -risk incidents and enhance the department’s ability to train, respond, and protect.
Fiscal Considerations
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund associated with this donation. The total cost of the ballistic equipment is estimated at $63,349, which will be paid in full by the SMPC.
Impact on the Community
This donation highlights the vital role the Sa nta Maria Police Department plays in the community, as recognized by the Santa Maria Police Council. The donated equipment and associated training will significantly enhance the safety of both police officers and the community, further supporting the department’s ongoing efforts to protect and serve.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Resolution