The Erie Police Department is hoping to renew technology that helps officers respond to incidents of gunfire throughout the city.On Wednesday, Erie City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to renew a subscription with the technology known as ShotSpotter.The gunshot detection system was first implemented in 2023, in neighborhoods throughout Erie that experienced reports of shots fired.Through the program, officers receive alerts on their phones and computer any time a gunshot is reported.According to t Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah, the technology helps officers get to a shooting scene minutes faster than a typical 911 call, and serves as a useful tool in helping police fight crime.In the past, ShotSpotter has been funded through grants.However, the most recent grant has run out, so the department is seeking new ways to fund it.On Wednesday, Erie City Council approved an ordinance to use $280,000 in contributions from local businesses and non-profit organizations to renew the program.The Erie Police Department is also seeking grants to help fund the technology."ShotSpotter was used by the city and then turned off for a while because of funding," said Erie Mayor Daria Devlin. "Because we were able to secure funding for it, I supported the chief and his request. We heard from council today, and understanding that it does help us get to calls earlier. It does help us help victims earlier, gunshot victims, so I support the chief's request for this and I'm glad that council supported it as well."Erie City Council is scheduled to take a second vote on renewing the contract on August 19.