March 5th, 2026 Local News
Bismarck, Mo. (KFMO) - The City of Bismarck has officially received the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026, recognizing the community’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety and support local law enforcement.
The Missouri Department of Public Safety recently notified city officials that Bismarck met the requirements for the program, which highlights communities across the state that demonstrate a strong commitment to crime reduction, investment in public safety, and collaboration between law enforcement and residents.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program was created by Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03. During its first year, 201 communities across the state earned the designation. Those communities were required to reapply in 2026 in order to maintain their status.
Governor Kehoe says the program highlights what can be accomplished when communities prioritize public safety and support their local law enforcement agencies.
Last year, communities that received the designation also benefited from grant funding that provided essential equipment for law enforcement agencies across Missouri. According to the Department of Public Safety, those grants helped fund 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers, 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios, and 56 vehicles.
Communities earning the designation in 2026 may again qualify for grant funding for training and equipment through the governor’s recommended Fiscal Year 2027 state budget, which proposes $10 million for the program pending approval by the Missouri General Assembly.
City officials say Bismarck earned the designation through several public safety initiatives, including offering retention bonuses for officers, increasing hourly wages to remain competitive with surrounding agencies, and working with local businesses to strengthen community infrastructure.
City leaders say the recognition reflects Bismarck’s continued commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for residents and businesses throughout the community.