Drone technology on the agenda
Round Rock City Council will consider a $692,799 contract on September 25 that would equip the police department with new drone technology. The agreement with Unmanned Vehicle Technologies calls for radar-based “nodes” placed throughout the city, enabling drones to launch autonomously, respond to calls, and stream live video to officers.
Assistant Police Chief Willie Richards said the technology would allow faster response times and improve situational awareness during incidents.
The five-year contract would be funded largely through a $417,000 state grant from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority, which covers the first two years. City officials plan to pursue more grants to sustain the program after that period.
Training center improvements
Council members will also weigh a contract for the second phase of upgrades to the Round Rock Public Safety Training Center. Plans include expanding the main building, adding a new classroom facility, constructing dedicated sheds for fire and police vehicles, building a skills pad, and installing a backup generator.
General Services Director Chad McDowell said the additional classroom space will allow police and fire personnel to train at the same time, improving efficiency.
The expansion carries a nearly $19 million price tag. About $13 million is already covered through a 2023 general obligation bond, while the city will seek other funding sources for the remainder.
