04/24/2026
Congratulations to the City of Licking Police Department!
The City of Licking Officially Receives Missouri Blue Shield Designation
Today, The City of Licking received official word from the Missouri Department of Public Safety that we have earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. This honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate their commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in and supporting law enforcement and building partnerships between law enforcement and our community.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program was created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03. In 2025, 201 Missouri communities earned the Blue Shield designation, recognizing local governments’ significant efforts to reduce crime and foster law enforcement – community partnerships to strengethen public safety. The opportunity to earn the Blue Shield designation for 2026 opened on February 4, 2026. Communities that earned the Blue Shield designation in 2025 had to reapply this year to be approved once again.
“The Blue Shield program has shown what’s possible when communities commit to prioritizing law enforcement and public safety,” Governor 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.”
“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 The City of Licking, 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.”
Quote from City of Licking Police Department:
“The Missouri Blue Shield designation is a direct reflection of the expectations we have set and the work our officers deliver every day. We have taken a proactive approach to law enforcement by targeting high-risk violations, strengthening partnerships with our community and surrounding agencies, and ensuring our officers have the training and equipment they need to perform at a high level. Public safety is not something we take lightly, and we are committed to holding that line. This recognition reinforces that The City of Licking is serious about reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and protecting our citizens now and into the future.”
Eligibility and Program Details
Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment is reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.
Participation Incentives
Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2027, provided the General Assembly approves the funding. The Governor’s FY 2027 budget appropriated $10 million to the program for equipment and training grants. Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program. A map of 2025 Blue Shield communities is available here.
About The City of Licking
The City of Licking earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation because of its exceptional commitment to public safety. Through proactive law enforcement efforts, targeted enforcement of hazardous moving violations, continued investment in officer training and equipment, and strong partnerships with community stakeholders, the City has demonstrated a clear and ongoing commitment to protecting its residents. The department’s focus on utilizing modern technology, expanding enforcement capabilities, and maintaining a visible, engaged presence within the community has strengthened overall public safety and trust. This designation affirms The City of Licking’s commitment to creating a safer, more secure environment for all who live and work here.
