Discussion and possible action to authorize the acceptance of the FY2026 Body Worn Camera Grant (4362004) award from the Office of the Governor in the amount of $143,905.00 for the purchase of body-worn camera equipment, software and supplies for the Webb County Sheriff's Office peace officers; and designating the County Judge as the authorized official and authorizing the judge to execute all relevant documents related to this grant and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires a cash match of $43,105.00, which will be met utilizing the Sheriff’s Office forfeiture funds (Fund #2152); and, thus, will have no impact on the general fund. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Grant Fund #2743]

Issue: The use of Body Worn Cameras has been shown in studies to be an effective strategy for law enforcement agencies, and their use has grown to be a standard and beneficial practice for sworn officers.

Solution: Grant award to expand and leverage grant resources so that the Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be able to increase transparency and accountability through the continued utilization of body-worn cameras for its sworn officer force.

Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be able to achieve greater transparency and accountability in its service and protection of the Laredo/Webb County public and taxpayers.

N/A

This grant application was authorized by the court on 2/10/2025.