The City has been notified that funding is available for the 2015 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG).  This $77,820 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 Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) will use its $11,075 allocation to purchase equipment to be used in search and rescue operations.  The Police Department plans to use its $66,745 allocation to purchase interior patrol car equipment, patrol rifle ammunition, 5 radar units, NIK Drug Kits, 5 Glocks, Tait Radios, 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 $77,820 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 2015 JAG Grant in the amount of $77,820; or
• Not approve the application and acceptance of award of the 2015 JAG Grant in the amount of $77,820.  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 2015 JAG application submission in the amount of $77,820, accept the grant award, approve the interlocal agreement with Yellowstone County and authorize the Mayor to sign the award documents when they are received.