LINN — The City of Linn received notice March 2 from the Missouri Department of Public Safety that it has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026.

The designation recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public safety, supporting law enforcement and building partnerships between law enforcement and the community.

The Missouri Blue Shield Program was created by Governor Mike Kehoe in January 2025. In its first year, 201 Missouri communities earned the designation in recognition of efforts to reduce crime and strengthen law enforcement. “The Blue Shield program has shown what’s possible when communities commit to prioritizing law enforcement and public safety,” Kehoe said. “After awarding $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, we’re continuing that work by welcoming new communities and renewing Blue Shield designations for counties, towns, and cities that remain committed to the program.” 

Communities that earn the designation are eligible to receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of the governor’s recommended budget for State Fiscal Year 2027, pending approval by the General Assembly. The governor’s FY 2027 budget appropriates $10 million to the program for equipment and training grants. Participating communities are also featured on the governor’s social media pages and the DPS website. A map of 2025 Blue Shield communities is available on the DPS website. 

“Strengthening public safety and committing to joint law enforcement community – citizen safety efforts is what the Blue Shield Program is all about and the Department of Public Safety is honored to work with communities like Linn, that have answered the Blue Shield challenge,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “Last year, the essential equipment provided by Blue Shield grants included 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers (LPR), 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios and 56 vehicles. We look forward to getting additional important equipment and training to our partners in local law enforcement.” 

According to a press release from the Linn Police Department, Linn earned the designation because of its commitment to public safety through officer recruitment and retention, equipment upgrades and efforts to foster relationships within the community. The designation affirms the city’s ongoing efforts to create a safer environment for residents and businesses.

“It is an honor to receive the designation as a “Blue Shield City” and contribute to Governor Kehoe’s vision of a safer Missouri”, stated Linn Police Chief Sam Ford.