03/26/2026
City of Canton Officially Receives Missouri Blue Shield Designation AGAIN
Canton, Mo. – Today, the City of Canton received official notification from the Missouri Department of Public Safety that it has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. This honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in and supporting law enforcement, and building meaningful partnerships between law enforcement and the community. The City of Canton was also recognized with a Blue Shield designation in 2025.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program was established by Governor Mike Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03. In its inaugural year, 201 Missouri communities earned the designation, highlighting significant efforts by local governments to reduce crime and strengthen law enforcement–community partnerships. The application period for the 2026 designation opened on February 4, 2026, and all previously designated communities were required to reapply for continued recognition.
“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 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 Canton that have answered the Blue Shield challenge,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. “Last year, essential equipment provided through Blue Shield grants included 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers, 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios, and 56 vehicles. We look forward to continuing to provide critical equipment and training to our local law enforcement partners.”
“As Chief of Police, I am incredibly proud of our department and our community for earning the Missouri Blue Shield designation for the second consecutive year. This recognition highlights the importance of public safety in our community and reflects the strong partnerships we have built with our citizens. Receiving this honor again reinforces our commitment to providing the highest level of service and protection to those we serve.”
— Chief Tycher Blakely