New tech slated for OPD facility

The Odessa City Council is expected to approve the purchase of more than $600,000 in new technology and furnishings for the police department’s new training facility during their 6 p.m., Tuesday council meeting.

The purchase includes cutting edge virtual training technology that will “enhance crisis intervention and de-escalation training for officers,” Police Chief Mike Gerke told council during their work session this past Tuesday.

The cost of the new system will be $326,471.42 and paid out of the police department’s capital outlay-buildings fund, Gerke said. The total cost includes shipping, installation of the tactical simulators and a 5-year service support agreement.

An additional $142,354.30 is expected to be used to purchase more than a dozen laptops, docking stations, and 29 large, interactive TV monitors and various accessories.

City council is also expected to approve the police department’s request to spend $141,221.31 on new furniture for the facility, including various tables, desks, and chairs.

Council has also previously indicated it will approve a $30,000 art sculpture design, that when completed will be placed outdoors in the facility’s front entrance.

The 10-foot-tall sculpture, which will weigh 4,000 lbs., portrays an abstract scene of a parent and child standing in front of a law enforcement officer, said Randy Ham, executive director of Odessa Arts. The project will be paid with capital outlay funds.

“We’re excited,” Ham said. “It’s an art piece we’ve previously never seen in Odessa.”

San Antonio artist Oscar Alvarado, was one of more than 40 artists who bid on the project, Ham said.