The Chief of Police for the Houston Police Department (HPD) requests City Council approve the joint application for and acceptance of grant funds from the Bureau of Justice Assistance to fund the FY2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. HPD further requests City Council approve an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Houston and Harris County as joint applicants for such grant.
Per the Interlocal Agreement, HPD has been designated as the lead agency and jointly applies on an annual basis for funding with the Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO). This grant is non-competitive and is formula driven. If awarded, HPD will receive $1,286,117.50 and HCSO will receive grant funding in the amount of $1,286,117.50 for a total of $2,572,235.00. The grant period is from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2028. This grant does not require a cash match. This will be the 28th year of funding for the Houston Police Department.
The JAG funding provides essential resources for HPD, allowing the department to strategically allocate resources where they will have the most impact. For this funding cycle, HPD plans to focus on two main areas: civilian support and classified overtime.
In line with previous grant allocations, HPD intends to continue funding key civilian positions in HPD's Technology Services Division and the Office of Budget & Finance. These positions are crucial for managing and supporting the department's IT infrastructure and computer systems and for overseeing financial operations and proper administration of various HPD grants. By funding these roles, HPD can maintain the critical operational support needed to keep its technology and financial processes efficient and secure.
Additionally, HPD will utilize grant funds for law enforcement officer overtime, allowing HPD to address high-demand areas and critical patrol needs across the city. This targeted overtime allocation is crucial for maintaining public safety, as it provides additional resources for areas that require heightened law enforcement presence. The Harris County Sheriff's Office proposes to use grant funds on equipment, technology upgrades, overtime and training.
The Houston Police Department is also seeking City Council authorization for the Chief of Police, or a designated representative, to serve as the City's official agent in the grant application process. This authorization would allow the Chief or designee to apply for, accept, and utilize any awarded grant funds, as well as to manage additional funds for extensions within the grant’s budget period, if applicable. Additionally, this request includes permission for the Mayor to execute all necessary agreements related to the grant, contingent on the City Attorney's approval, for a period not to exceed five years.
The Houston Police Department also requests City Council to authorize the creation of a new Interest-Bearing Grant Fund for the Justice Assistance Grant Program.
Fiscal Note:
No Fiscal Note is required on grant items.
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J. Noe Diaz, Jr.
Chief of Police