Olivet council backs Missouri Blue Shield designation to unlock state law‑enforcement grant eligibility

The Olivette City Council unanimously approved a resolution on July 22, 2025, supporting the city’s pursuit of the Missouri Blue Shield designation, a state program that allows municipalities to apply for certain law‑enforcement training and equipment grants.

"This designation allows us the ability to apply for certain state grants, for law enforcement training and equipment that we would not otherwise be eligible to apply for," Chief Beth Andreski told the council. Andreski said the department already meets many program criteria and is working to update its recruitment and retention policy to meet the remaining requirements.

Council members noted the Blue Shield initiative is new at the state level under recent administration changes and approved Resolution 2025‑261 to support the city’s future application. There is no immediate funding request associated with the action; staff will apply for available grants when the application period opens for fiscal year 2026.

The resolution passed by recorded vote with council members voting yes.