Chicopee council approves $5,200 to replace six police ballistic vests

The Chicopee City Council on Tuesday approved a $5,200 appropriation from the stabilization fund to purchase six replacement ballistic vests for the police department.

Council leaders said the vests are reaching their service life and will be replaced immediately; the mayor’s office said the city historically secures a 50% federal reimbursement and seeks state funding to cover the remaining cost.

City officials described the purchase as routine equipment replacement. Chief Major, participating by Zoom, said the request is to replace six vests that are “going past their expiration date,” and noted the city has been successful in obtaining 50% federal grant reimbursement in the past. Councilors voted by roll call; the motion passed with 12 yes votes.

The appropriation was taken from available city funds and the stabilization fund. No additional conditions were attached to the vote.

The vests will be purchased and issued to officers once procurement is complete; officials said they expect to pursue reimbursement from grant programs to offset the up-front cost.