Sedalia Police Department to Acquire Special Response Vehicle to Enhance Officer Safety and Emergency Response
The Sedalia Police Department (SPD) is moving forward with the acquisition of a Special Response Vehicle (SRV) – a critical tool designed to protect officers and the public during high-risk incidents. The purchase, included in the City’s FY 2026 budget, strengthens Sedalia’s emergency response capabilities while prioritizing officer safety in life-threatening situations.
The need for an SRV was first outlined during the City’s 2024 strategic planning process and reaffirmed in budget discussions earlier this year.
“Our officers regularly face dangerous, unpredictable situations–from armed stand-offs to active threats,” said Police Chief Woolery. “This vehicle is about protecting lives–our officers’ and our residents’. When seconds count, we need tools that allow us to respond quickly and safely.”
A Special Response Vehicle (SRV) is not a military vehicle, nor is it used for routine patrol. It is a highly protected response unit designed to safeguard personnel during:
- Hostage or barricade situations
- Active shooter or violent threat responses
- High-risk warrant service involving armed suspects
- Emergency evacuations under threat
Importantly, the SRV is not equipped with weapons and is not used for aggressive tactics. Its purpose is strictly protective–allowing officers to safely approach volatile situations, rescue injured individuals, or evacuate civilians without exposure to gunfire or dangerous conditions. In the past, Sedalia officers have responded to these types of calls without adequate protection, which has placed them–and the public–at unnecessary risk.
Following a competitive bid process, SPD received a single proposal from Terradyne Armored Vehicles, Inc., which met all operational requirements. The cost of the vehicle is $299, 950, with $7,980 in transportation expenses, for a total of $307, 930. While the initial budged amount was $275,000, the cost increase reflects current inflation and market conditions. To offset the difference, SPD will use $50,000 from previously restricted safety equipment funds–ensuring no additional strain on general city resources.
City leaders also want residents to know that this investment in public safety is being made alongside ongoing infrastructure improvements, not instead of them. Millions of dollars are currently being allocated to road resurfacing, water main replacements, and long-term infrastructure upgrades throughout Sedalia.
“This is not a matter of choosing safety over streets–it’s a matter of doing both,” said Interim City Administrator Matthew Wirt. “Our officers need the tools to respond to today’s threats, just as our residents need reliable roads and water systems. We’re committed to delivering on both.”
Delivery of the SRV is expected later this fiscal year. Once in service, it will be used by SPD’s Special Response Team to respond to complex and dangerous situations across the city.