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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-12-2016 Item 07 2016 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program Application Meeting Date: 7/12/2016 FROM: Deanna Cantrell, Chief of Police Prepared By: Melissa Ellsworth, Senior Administrative Analyst SUBJECT: 2016 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATION RECOMMENDATION 1. Authorize staff to submit an application for a 2016 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant in the amount of $13,873. 2. If the grant is awarded, authorize the City Manager to execute necessary grant documents and direct the appropriation of monies into the accounts required to administer the grant. DISCUSSION Grant Program Information The U.S. Department of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to the State and local jurisdictions. JAG funds may be used to fund technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and criminal justice information systems for any of the following purpose areas: 1. Law enforcement programs 2. Prosecution and court programs 3. Prevention and education programs 4. Corrections and community corrections programs 5. Drug treatment and enforcement programs 6. Planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs 7. Crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation) The JAG Program is a non-competitive formula grant and the funding allocation is based on the population and crime rate of the local jurisdiction. The amount available to the City of San Luis Obispo for 2016 is $13,873. JAG Program funds must be used to supplement existing local funds for program activities and cannot replace or supplant funds that have been appropriated for the same purpose. The grant application was due on June 30th, 2016. Due to timing restrictions, staff has already submitted the grant application; however if Council requests that the application be retracted, staff will contact the granting agency. 7 Packet Pg. 145 Proposed Use of Grant Funds The department utilizes the range frequently to engage in staff training to ensure officers are thoroughly trained using their firearms. Currently, the range consists of outdated cardboard static targets. Staff is interested in purchasing a pneumatic target system to further enhance training. A pneumatic target system can add new elements to tactical scenarios and can also provide a more realistic environment for specialized training. CONCURRENCES The Director of the Finance and Information Technology Department concurs with the staff recommendation. FISCAL IMPACT City matching funds are not required for this grant. The City may draw down any or all JAG funds after acceptance of the award. To do so, a trust fund must be established in order to maintain the funds separate from the General Fund. ALTERNATIVES 1. Modify the staff recommendation. Council may direct staff to apply for the JAG funds for a different purpose, as long as the use is consistent with the purpose areas described in this report. 2. Do not submit a grant application. Council may direct staff to not submit a grant application. The alternative is not recommended. The JAG Program is non-competitive and the funds have already been allocated to our City upon application, as long as the use is consistent with the purpose areas described in this report. 7 Packet Pg. 146