The City of Lewisville's 2026 City Council Retreat featured a comprehensive presentation on the Drone First Responder (DFR) program by Chief of Police Brook Rollins. The program, funded through recent budget investments, has expanded significantly since 2020, now operating with advanced drones capable of autonomous flight and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. The drones provide real-time intelligence to officers, enhancing officer safety, improving citizen response times, and aiding in crime reduction. The presentation detailed the technical capabilities of the Skydio X10 drones, including thermal imaging, obstacle avoidance, and integration with the city's computer-aided dispatch system. The council discussed potential future uses, including infrastructure inspections and expanded public safety applications, emphasizing data-driven deployment and transparency. A live demonstration and a simulated emergency scenario highlighted the program's operational effectiveness and potential life-saving impact. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance public safety and operational efficiency.

2026 - City Council Retreat - Drones as First Responders