Dispatch/Security Upgrade Cash From Senators Sought By Simsbury

SIMSBURY, CT — The town is hitting up U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy for federal cash that will fund security upgrades at Simsbury Town Hall and tech upgrades at the Simsbury Police Department.

The Simsbury Board of Selectmen unanimously voted April 17 to apply to Blumenthal and Murphy for $112,000 as part of a so-called "Fiscal Year 2024 Congressionally Directed Spending Request."

The senators are seeking applications for funding for eligible projects and, after reviewing the applications, it will submit a proposal to the Senate Appropriations Committee for final approval.

If Simsbury is lucky, it will be awarded the funds.

For just that contingency, the motion Simsbury selectmen approved also includes a stipulation that it formally accept the funds, meaning another vote is not necessary should that happen.

The computer software upgrades at the Simsbury Police Department would aid police and emergency dispatchers in getting help to those requiring assistance.

Essentially this software, estimated to cost $12,000, would allow dispatchers to digitally keep track of what services and units are available and keep track of what goes where.

Currently, dispatchers must utilize a hand-card system, essentially a flip chart, to keep track of units.

"The digital version provides for greater consistency, efficiency and accountability and would be a benefit to those we serve," wrote Simsbury Town Manager Maria Capriola. Simsbury Police Chief Nicholas Boulter and Simsbury Public Works Director/Town Engineer Tom Roy to selectmen.

The bulk of the request would pay for significant security upgrades at Simsbury Town Hall, with would call for the "installation of a new access system for exterior and interior doors throughout town hall."

"It will significantly enhance the safety and security of personnel and visitors to town hall and the protection of assets," wrote Capriola, Boulter and Roy.

For a description of the program, click on this link and scroll to Page 17.