The Kearney Police Department will add nearly thirty police cars to their fleet after a donation from a local private foundation.

According to the city of Kearney, the donation allows the city to start the first ever Kearney Police Assigned Vehicle Program, often referred to as a “Take Home Vehicle.” The city said this project should help recruit and retain officers when it's become difficult to do so.

“We are incredibly blessed to have a high level of support from our community, a generous donation like this does not happen without positive, professional, caring, dedicated policing for all citizens, this serves as a strong reminder of this support. I have confidence this program will have a direct impact on public safety, while also strengthening the recruitment and retention capabilities of our first-class organization. I can’t even begin to thank those responsible for this donation and will continue to be thankful for the support we enjoy from our City Manager, City Council, Mayor, and the entire community. Kearney is indeed a special place!" said Chief Bryan D. Waugh.

The grant totals nearly $3 million will be used for the program which will take 18 to 24 months to complete, but will start with the purchase of around 30 vehicles.

The city of Kearney said law enforcement take home vehicle programs are considered a desirable benefit of the job for police officers, but they also have many benefits for the department and community at large.

The city said in Nebraska, the only known mid-size agency similar to Kearney providing a take home police car for uniform patrol officers is the Bellevue Police Department. The Nebraska State Patrol and most County Sheriff’s Offices, including Buffalo County, provide take-home vehicles.

The estimated cost per vehicle including emergency lighting, police radio, computer, radar, camera, weapon mounts, storage, prisoner transport cell, associated electronic equipment and outside vendor upfitting is $75,000 - $80,000 per vehicle. The police department typically budgets for the replacement of five police vehicles per year, totaling approximately $250,000 within the capital equipment budget, according to the city of Kearney. This program will permit a two year pause on the replacement schedule, saving approximately $500,000 over the same period.