The City has been notified that funding is available for the 2016 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG).  This $86,925 grant is a joint application between the Billings Police Department and the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office, with the Billings Police Department acting as the grant administrator.  The Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) will use its $11,335 allocation to purchase equipment to be used in search and rescue operations.  The Police Department plans to use its $75,590 allocation to purchase interior patrol car equipment, patrol rifle ammunition, 6 radar units, NIK Drug Kits, a Yamaha Viking, 1 Watch Guard chest camera, range equipment, bike patrol, ceremonial and honor guard uniforms, as well as other supplies.

The attached interlocal Agreement has been approved by the County Commissioners.  The interlocal Agreement is part of the application submittal.  Staff is requesting Council approval to submit the application, accept the $86,925 grant award, approve the interlocal agreement with Yellowstone County and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received.

Council may:

• Approve the application and acceptance of award of the 2016 JAG Grant in the amount of $86,925; or
• Not approve the application and acceptance of award of the 2016 JAG Grant in the amount of $86,925.  This action would result in the City's General Fund having to absorb costs to maintain patrol cars and ammunition.

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

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the 2016 JAG application submission in the amount of $86,925, accept the grant award, approve the interlocal agreement with Yellowstone County and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received.