Kimberling City Officially Receives Missouri Blue Shield Designation
Kimberling City, Missouri – Today, The City of Kimberling City 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 City of Kimberling City was also recognized with a Blue Sheld designation in 2025.
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 strengthen 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 Kimberling City, 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.”
"It is a honor to once again receive the Blue Shield designation on behalf of our Police Department for the second consecutive year. This continued recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our team to excellence in service, officer wellness, and building strong community trust. I remain focused on leading Kimberling City toward becoming one of the safest communities in the State of Missouri, and this achievement reinforces that we are moving in the right direction." 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 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 Kimberling City
Kimberling City has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for the 2nd year in recognition of its ongoing commitment to public safety and community well-being. This achievement reflects the proactive efforts of the Kimberling City Police Department to implement forward-thinking strategies that reduce crime and strengthen community trust.
The department has developed and sustained innovative programs designed to enhance safety and engagement, including a strong Neighborhood Watch Program that encourages resident involvement, the proactive EYE Watch Program that increases patrol visibility and crime prevention, and the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Program, supported by approximately 30 active members who play a vital role in connecting the department with the community.
By combining traditional law enforcement practices with community-driven initiatives, the department has built a comprehensive approach to public safety that empowers citizens while enhancing overall security. These efforts have contributed to a measurable impact in crime prevention and have helped create a safe and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
The Missouri Blue Shield designation serves as a testament to Kimberling City’s continued dedication to safety, collaboration, and quality of life, ensuring the community remains a place where people can live, work, and visit with confidence for years to come.