Title
Authorization to Apply for, Accept, and Enter into an Agreement with National Institute of Justice for 2017 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Competitive Grant Program (Ordinance S-43291)
Description
Request authorization for the City Manager, or his designee, to authorize the Police Department to apply for $250,000 through the FY 2017 National Institute of Justice Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Competitive grant program. If the grant is awarded, request authorization to accept the funds and enter into a grant agreement. Further request authorization for the City Treasurer to accept and for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Report
Summary
The Police Department has applied for these types of grant funds continually over the last several years through the National Institute of Justice at the federal level. Funding is used to implement innovative solutions to the backlog issues facing many crime laboratories nationwide. The Police Department's Crime Lab has made significant strides in addressing these issues by utilizing these grant funds as part of a comprehensive approach to support and enhance the analysis of evidence. These funds will be utilized for overtime, fringe benefits, equipment, supplies, and training to improve the timeliness of forensic science services and address the backlogs in the analysis of forensic evidence.
Contract Term
One year beginning Jan. 1, 2018 through Dec. 31, 2018.
Financial Impact
This grant will provide up to $250,000. No matching funds are required. Cost to the City would be in-kind resources only.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
This item was unanimously approved by the Public Safety and Veterans Subcommittee on Feb. 8, 2017.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Milton Dohoney, Jr. and the Police Department.