Staff recommends that the City Council approve the 2024 JAG application submission in the amount of $142,367; accept the grant award; approve the MOU with the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received.  

The City has been notified that funding is available for the 2024 Justice Assistance (JAG) Grant.  This $142,367 is a joint application between the Billings Police Department (BPD) and the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office (YCSO), with the BPD acting as the grant administrator.  The YCSO will use its $16,287 allocation of grant funds to purchase equipment to support their search and rescue operations.  $4,500 will be used to purchase a hydraulic helicopter transport cart.  Two portable radio bank chargers will be purchased totaling $2,489.60 and a four-wheel ATV in the amount of $9,297.40 

The BPD plans to use $126,080 to purchase interior patrol SUV equipment, simulation ammunition, Point Blank vests, uniforms, First Aid supplies and promotional items.  

The attached Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is part of the application submittal.   

City Council may:

• Approve the 2024 JAG application submission in the amount of $142,367; accept the grant award; approve the MOU with Yellowstone County and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received; or,
• Not Approve the 2024 JAG application submission in the amount of $142,367 and provide further direction to staff.  

There will be no cost to the City as no match is required.