Ocala Police Department to get new cooler uniforms

File photo: Officer Tara McBride of the Ocala Police Department, right, passes out candy to Alurah Popp, 2, who was dressed as a fairy, as Officer Jason Gurney, left, and Explorer Benahsa Seenarine, second from left, look on during the Downtown Fall Festival at Citizens’ Circle in Ocala, Fla. on Friday, Oct. 29, 2021. The Halloween-themed festival was hosted by the City of Ocala and included many public service professionals and first responders. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.

The Ocala City Council approved a contract totaling $150,000 for new uniforms for police officers.

According to Chief Michael Balken, the fiber used for the new uniforms will breathe better in the heat than the double polyester versions officers have worn for decades.

The contract calls for 100% polyester ripstop fabric that has water repellant coating, UPF 30 rating, provides odor control by stopping growth of bacteria, and “highly breathable performance to release moisture and heat fast.”

Under the contract terms, the manufacturer will provide in-house custom fittings and provide a 12-month warranty on the uniform.

Tactical pants were priced at $66 each and shirts ranged from $48.50 to $56.75.