While fundraising has been in the works for over two months, the New Hampton Police Department (NHPD) was officially given the “green light” recently by the City Council for the addition of its own K9 unit.
In early December, Chief Conrad Rosendahl announced plans to form an NHPD K9 Unit. Startup costs are estimated at about $35,000, with Rosendahl already having raised about two-thirds of the necessary funding through donations and grants.
Mayor Steve Geerts says the Council’s approval during their February 3rd meeting is a reflection on Rosendahl’s efforts since he began leading the NHPD last July.
Geerts also commends Rosendahl for his K9 fundraising efforts, which means they won’t have to find money in the City budget.
Heading into February, Rosendahl had secured over $22,000 in grants and donations to launch the K9 Unit and he’s still waiting to hear on two grant applications that could put them over the top.
Rosendahl says plans are for dog and handler training to begin this August.
To donate to the K9 program, contact the NHPD at 641-394-3241.
