Discuss, consider and take appropriate action to authorize the Williamson County Sheriff's Office to apply for the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) FY2020 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant.

Texas Dept of Transportation (TXDOT) annually offers the opportunity for law enforcement agencies to apply for the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant. The STEP grant provides funding 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 five (5) activities: 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 $50,000 for overtime costs associated with these enforcement activities. A twenty percent (20%) match of $12,500 is required and will be met through administrative costs related to implementing the grant, fringe benefits on overtime and vehicle costs. The total grant will be approximately $62,500. The only additional cost to the County will be vehicle usage above what is included in our match and this will be included in the FY2020 budget.

Staff recommends the following action: Give approval to apply for the Texas Dept. of Transportation (TXDOT) FY2020 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Comprehensive Grant and authorize appropriate County department personnel to complete documentation relevant to the implementation of the grant.