Discuss, consider and take appropriate action to authorize the Williamson County Sheriff's Office to apply for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) FY2023 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant.

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) annually offers the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant. The STEP grant provides funding to law enforcement agencies for overtime enforcement activities within high-crash areas throughout the fiscal year with special focus and media opportunities during five holiday periods: Christmas/New Year's, Spring Break, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. The enforcement focuses on Driving While Intoxicated/Driving Under the Influence, Failure to Use Occupant Restraint (including child-passenger safety seats), Intersection Traffic Control, Speed Enforcement/Control, and Distracted Driving.

Through this grant, Williamson County is eligible to be reimbursed up to $50,000.00 for overtime costs associated with these enforcement activities, providing approximately 890 enforcement hours. A twenty percent (20%) match of $12,528.08 is required and will be met through  administrative costs related to the implementation of the grant and fringe benefits on overtime. The total grant will be approximately $62,386.50.

Staff recommends the following action: Give approval to apply for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) FY2023 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant and authorize appropriate County department personnel to complete documentation relevant to the implementation of the grant.