Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of a FY 2024 Justice Assistance Grant application to the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) as prepared, coordinated, written, and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office Grant Writer in conjunction with the City of Laredo for equipment, minor tools, contractual services, training/travel, and supplies for a total amount estimated at $28,733.50 and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant has no match requirements; and, thus, is at no cost to the general fund.  All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff]

Issue: Supplemental equipment and supplies will allow the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to provide better and more enhanced law enforcement services.

Solution: Grant application to allow for the leveraging of federal grant JAG funds in order to provide supplemental equipment/supplies for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.

Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office and its staff will be equipped with needed equipment and supplies.

This Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) is considered a disparate allocation, which occurs when a city or municipality is allocated one-and-one-half times (150 percent) more than the county, while the county bears more than 50% of the cost associated with the incarceration of the municipality’s Part I violent crimes.

The grant application authorization and award acceptance are approved by the Webb County Commissioners' Court on a yearly basis.