Members of the Ithaca community can expect to see the K-9 Team at festivals, sporting events, community relations events, and activities that draw large crowds. While on patrol, the K9 Team will be utilized in building searches, suspect apprehension, explosive detection, and searches for missing persons. Chief Barber noted that the K-9 Team will undoubtedly help to improve police-community relations. He stated "I'm excited about having Officer Kimmich involved in this program and welcome the public to stop and say hello when they see our K-9 Team at public events. This is another avenue that will help build stronger police-community relations." The initial start-up costs for the program are funded through a Homeland Security grant and private donations.