Resident pitches app to give officers on-demand sign-language and visual verification services; cost concerns raised

Stephanie Clemens, a Saint Ann resident and consultant with a company she identified as Ira, presented a technology service on July 7 that would allow police officers and city staff to summon on-demand American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and visual confirmation services for people who are blind.

Clemens described three main uses: on-scene ASL interpretation for traffic stops or wellness checks, a visual verification feature for people who are blind to confirm an officer’s identity, and geofenced interpretation inside city buildings for front-desk business such as filing reports or pulling permits. “We provide accessibility for individuals who are blind and who are deaf,” Clemens said.

Clemens said Ira’s pricing includes an annual infrastructure fee of $5,000 and a reported $150 charge when a new sworn officer account is added; interpretation usage would be billed at $3.99 per minute during typical hours. Aldermen and staff expressed concern that per-minute fees could become expensive depending on usage and asked the police department to estimate likely demand.

“Because this is going to get really expensive really quick,” an alderman said, noting the unknown number of interactions with deaf or blind residents. Police staff said they would review historical contacts with deaf or blind residents to estimate usage and report back.

Clemens also said she had discussed the proposal with “Mayor Helmer,” Major Carrigan and Chief Timinez and that those officials were aware of the concept; the board said staff would follow up and contact Clemens after an internal review.

No formal procurement action or contract was decided at the meeting; the police department asked for time to assess likely usage and funding sources before making a recommendation.

Why it matters: On-demand interpretation services can improve access to government services and reduce miscommunication during police encounters, but recurring usage fees can create an ongoing budget pressure. Saint Ann police and city staff will analyze demand and funding options before the city pursues the service further.