April 17th, Kimberling City officially received Missouri Blue Shield designation from the Missouri Department of Public Safety. This prestigious honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate a steadfast commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program, created by Governor Kehoe in January 202 through Executive Order 25-03, recognizes local governments that make significant efforts to reduce crime, foster law enforcement collaboration, and build strong community partnerships for public safety.
“Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community and state. It affects everything from families feeling secure to businesses having the confidence to invest and grow,” said
Governor Kehoe
. “We designed the Missouri Blue Shield Program to recognize communities that go above and beyond in creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their futures. A Missouri Blue Shield designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of local governments across Missouri who are leading the way in making public safety a priority.”
“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Kimberling City that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said
Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety
(DPS). “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”
“It’s truly commendable to see the Chief’s leadership and efforts recognized through the Blue Shield Designation. This achievement is another positive step forward for our city.” — Mayor Bob Fritz
"Receiving Blue Shield designation is a testament to the strong commitment Kimberling City Police Department exhibits going above and beyond normal police work to make Kimberling City a better place to work, live and visit! It is an honor to work alongside the men and women of Kimberling City Police Department." Dawne Gardner, City Administrator.
"It is an incredible honor to receive the Blue Shield designation on behalf of our Police Department. This recognition is a reflection of our team’s unwavering dedication to excellence in service, safety, and community trust. My continued goal is to lead Kimberling City toward becoming the safest city in the State of Missouri, and this milestone affirms we are on the right path." Todd Lemoine, Chief of Police
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 will be 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 2026. 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.
About Kimberling City
Kimberling City earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation due to its exceptional commitment to public safety.
The Kimberling City Police Department has successfully implemented innovative programs aimed at reducing crime and enhancing community safety. Our efforts include a robust Neighborhood Watch Program that fosters strong community engagement, the proactive EYE Watch Program which enhances Officer patrol visibility and crime prevention, and the dedicated support of 23 active members in our Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Program, who assist in strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the community. Our approach to public safety extends beyond traditional law enforcement methods, incorporating community-driven programs that empower citizens and enhance overall security.
By integrating these programs into our daily operations, the Kimberling City Police Department has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing crime and fostering a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. Through continued innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to public safety, we strive to ensure that Kimberling City remains a secure and thriving community.
This designation affirms Kimberling City's dedication to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming community—one where residents, visitors, and generations to come can flourish in peace and confidence.