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Council briefs: GPD asks for grant for robotGILROY, Oct 14, 2011 (The Gilroy Dispatch - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- The Gilroy Police Department will ask the Gilroy City Council on Monday night for approval to seek a $25,000 grant to purchase a state-of-the-art robot for use in "high risk situations," according to a city staff report. The funds, from the Urban Area Security Initiative, would purchase a RoboteX Avatar Micro robot, described as a "portable, rugged" machine with a two-way audio speaker and microphone that officers could use in on varied terrain in certain emergency situations. The 20-pound robot is made of durable aluminum alloy and composite materials, according to a description on the RoboteX website. The robot also can crawl as far as 200 meters at up to 4 mph, climb a 60-degree incline and self-right itself if upside down, according to the description. The GPD already has a recon scout video robot, but the machine is "limited in its technical capabilities" and has no audio functions, according to the staff report. The city would be required to pay for the robot in full then be reimbursed by the Urban Area Security Initiative grant, according to the city staff report. The staff report said the robot could be used in other jurisdictions when needed. RoboteX is based in Palo Alto, according to the company's website. ALSO ON THE AGENDA: - Council members will continue a discussion on possible traffic study on Welburn Avenue, which could cost upwards of $125,000, according to a city staff report - The Council will make appointments to the Planning and Parks and Recreation commissions and the Development Standards Task Force - There will be further debate over proposed changes to city truck routes, as well as restrictions on rabbits and chickens in the city limits Mark Powell covers community issues for The Dispatch, including City Hall and public safety. Reach him at 847-7109 or e-mail him [email protected]. ___ (c)2011 The Gilroy Dispatch (Gilroy, Calif.) Visit The Gilroy Dispatch (Gilroy, Calif.) at www.gilroydispatch.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |