Discussion and possible action to authorize the acceptance of a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Grant (HIDTA Program) from the Executive Office of the President, Office of National Drug Control Policy in the amount of $530,150 for the continued salary and fringe benefits of seven Task Force Investigators; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to act as the County’s Executive Officer and Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the County’s participation in this grant. There is no cash match requirement for this grant; however, the District Attorney's Office requests additional funding in the form of cash match to cover expenditures in excess of the grant award. The cash match is in the amount of $148,000 for the county's budget process. 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. Contract Term: January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney, Account #1001-1160-001-463903-025 9Federal Matching Narcotics Task Force DEA)]

Issue: There is evidence that trafficking in narcotics and dangerous drugs exists in Laredo, Texas and that such illegal activity has a substantial and detrimental effect on the health and welfare of the people of Texas.
 
Solution: Gather and report intelligence data relating to trafficking in narcotics and dangerous drugs. Conduct undercover operations and engage in other traditional methods of investigations.
 
Result: Disrupt the illicit drug traffic in Laredo by immobilizing targeted violators and trafficking organizations.

There is evidence that trafficking in narcotics and dangerous drugs exists in Laredo, and surrounding areas and that such illegal activity has a substantial and detrimental effect on the health and welfare of the community. The DEA Task Force will collaborate between state and local law enforcement agencies by conducting undercover operations lead by DEA Task Force participants. The objective is to disrupt the illicit drug traffic in Laredo and surrounding areas by immobilizing targeted violators and trafficking organizations; therefore, minimizing the harmful effects of illegal drugs and organized crime