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ea | G me il Traci Hopkins <[email protected]> Proposal for Acquisition of DJI Matrice Drone for Emergency Operations 1 message Ross Olszewski <[email protected]> 24 March 2026 at 12:12 To: Traci Hopkins <[email protected]>, Wanda Koch <[email protected]>, Pete Sisti <[email protected]>, [email protected], mark nephew <[email protected]>, Paul Zimmermann <[email protected]>, Danielle Wagner <[email protected]> Dear Members of the Village Board, | am writing to request the purchase of a DJI Matrice drone at a cost of $6,489.99. This acquisition would serve as a critical life-saving tool for our first responders and a significant asset to the safety of our community. Justification for Need Our region's proximity to Zoar Valley presents unique geographical challenges. The rugged terrain and dense forest cover often make traditional ground searches slow and hazardous. Recently, we have seen a marked uptick in the need for aerial reconnaissance during search and rescue (SAR) operations. In the last few months alone, we have experienced multiple incidents requiring drone support. In each case, we were forced to rely on outside agencies, resulting in substantial wait times for equipment to arrive on-site. In emergency situations where every minute counts, having this technology stationed within our own village is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. Strategic Benefits * Rapid Deployment: Local ownership eliminates the transit delay from neighboring counties, allowing us to begin aerial grids immediately. + Enhanced Capability: The DJI Matrice is specifically designed for industrial and public safety use, offering high- resolution thermal imaging and flight stability that consumer-grade drones lack. ¢ Operational Support: | have discussed this proposal with Steve Raiport, whois in complete agreement that this drone would be a vital asset to our community's emergency toolkit. Personnel and Training We are committed to the responsible and professional operation of this equipment: * Current Staffing: We currently have one licensed drone operator on staff. e Expansion: | am scheduled to take my FAA licensing examination within the next month to ensure we have redundant, qualified pilots available for call-outs. * §.0.P.: 1am currently working on an addition to our Standard Operating Procedures to include the use of a drone with our agency. Investing in this technology ensures that our department remains proactive rather than reactive when lives are on the line. | am available to discuss the technical specifications or budget details further at your next meeting. | have discussed this purchase Wanda in the past and also have discussed this with Traci, we do have the funds available this fiscal year to purchase. The estimates and information will be included in the April board packet. Total cost would be: Drone Kit: $6,489.99 2 extra batteries: $477.78