The City has been notified that funding for the 2011 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) has been posted on line.  This $71,253 grant is a joint application between the Billings Police Department and the Yellowstone County Sheriff's office, with the Billings Police Department acting as administrator of the grant.  The City will receive $71,253 from the annual 2011 JAG Grant.  The City will share $12,928 of the allocation with the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) for purchase of a River Rescue Raft, duty weapon holsters, in car cameras, and a mobile two-way radio.  

The Police Department plans on purchasing interior patrol car equipment, patrol rifle ammunition, 1 MDT, 3 radar units, Tasers, steel range targets, and stop sticks.  Volunteer patrol uniforms and supplies, promotional materials and honor guard and patrol bike uniforms will also be purchased. 

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 $71,253 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 2011 JAG Grant in the amount of $71,253; or
• Not approve the application and acceptance of award of the 2011 JAG Grant in the amount of $71,253.

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

Staff recommends Council approve the 2011 JAG application submission in the amount of $71,253, accept the grant award, approve the interlocal agreement with Yellowstone County and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received.