Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of the FY 2026 Operation Lone Star Grant Program application to the Office of the Governor's Homeland Security Grants Division for an estimated amount of $5,000,000.00. The funds will support overtime operations, applicable fringe benefits, equipment, minor tools, software, internet, and supplies for the Sheriff's Office, District Attorney’s Office, Court at Law I, and the County Clerk Department.; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents, including the resolution; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any type of match. Thus, this proposed grant will have no impact on the general fund. All required documents were sent to the Economic Development Department and were found in compliance with the Single Point of Contact (SPOC) policy. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Grant Fund #2748]

Issue: Local law enforcement in border areas work with limited budgets, while transborder criminal organizations have unlimited funds to access advanced technology and evade detection through profits from illegal activities like drug trafficking.

Solution: Approve submission of the FY 2026 Operation Lone Star Grant Application.

Result: If funded additional resources for combating illegal drug trafficking and strengthening border security for the residents of Webb County.

The purpose of Operation Lone Star includes the facilitation of directed actions to deter and interdict criminal activity and to assist in the execution of coordinated border security operations.

This grant application and award is authorized by the court on a yearly basis.