City Council Meeting Date: December 2, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: Jeff Schroepfer, Chief of Police
Title
Approval of Police Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (Drones) Program.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council makes a motion to approve the Police Department’s proposed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle - UAV (drone) program, policy and purchase.
Summary Report:
The Northfield Police Department is proposing the acquisition and implementation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle - UAV (drone) technology to enhance public safety operations. In accordance with Minnesota Statute § 626.19, law enforcement agencies must provide an opportunity for public comment before purchasing or using unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Police Department’s UAV program is designed to improve response capabilities in emergencies, assist in search and rescue missions, aid in evidence collection, and provide situational awareness during critical incidents, while maintaining transparency and protecting individual privacy rights.
The proposed UAV policy has been reviewed to ensure compliance with Minnesota Statute § 626.19, the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The draft policy was published for the public’s review and comment.
Public comments were accepted, by state statute requirement, and a review of public comments received was provided to the council.
The council is being asked to approve the Northfield Police Unmanned Aerial Vehicle program, as well as the purchase of the equipment, software and training.
A public hearing for this item is a separate item on this meeting agenda.
Alternative Options:
Deny the program startup and purchase.
Financial Impacts:
Initial program costs are estimated at $20,000, which includes the purchase of up to 3 drones, operator training, FAA certification, software, and required accessories. Funding is proposed from the sale of other used police department equipment.
Ongoing maintenance, licensing, and data storage costs will be included in future operating budgets.
Tentative Timelines:
• November 18 - City Council work session and public comment period on UAV Program and Policy
• December 2- Return to City Council for final approval and purchase authorization
• 1st Quarter 2026 - Operator training and FAA compliance certification
• 1st Quarter 2026- Tentative UAV program launch