Title
Consider approval of Resolution 2021-141R, authorizing the submission by Hays County of an application for funding under the U.S. Department of Justice, OIP, BJA Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program that includes a funding request on behalf of the City in the amount of $18,869.00 for the purchase of forensic lab equipment and supplies; authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute any and all documents as necessary to accept the grant funds, if awarded; and declaring effective date.
Body
Meeting date: August 3, 2021
Department: Police
Point of Contact: Chief Stan Standridge
Requested Funding Amount: $18,869
CITY COUNCIL
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
BACKGROUND:
Hays County is submitting a grant proposal to the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance for grant funding. Because the City of San Marcos and Hays County are disparate jurisdictions, one unit of local government must submit the application on behalf of the disparate group. The County will make such application, while also agreeing to be the Fiscal Agent. If awarded the grant, the County will subaward to the San Marcos Police Department $18,869 in funding to support the purchase of forensic lab equipment and supplies to ensure better evidence handling and support accreditation standards.
Currently, the City of San Marcos’ Police Department is certified by the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for being compliant with the NIBRS, or National Incident-based Reporting System. With funding provided by this grant, the Department will purchase more modern tools for its forensic lab to help improve identification, collections, preservation and proper handling of evidence - a key component required for becoming accredited through the Texas Law Enforcement Best Practices Recognition Program, a program overseen by the Texas Police Chiefs’ Association.
By receiving the 2021 Local JAG allocation, the San Marcos Police Department will be able to achieve this accreditation with greater efficiency, effectiveness and accountability.