File #: 14-4198    Name: Justice Assistance Grant
Type: Grant Application Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 6/4/2015 In control: City Council Legislative Meeting
On agenda: 6/23/2015 Final action:
Title: Consideration of an Application for the Renewal of the Justice Assistance Grant for the Police Department's Part I Crimes Task Force.
City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
 
DATE:      JUNE 17, 2015
 
TO:            THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
 
FROM:      MARK B. JINKS, CITY MANAGER   /s/
 
DOCKET TITLE:      
TITLE
Consideration of an Application for the Renewal of the Justice Assistance Grant for the Police Department's Part I Crimes Task Force.
BODY
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ISSUE:  Consideration of a renewal grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, in the amount of $31,713 in federal funds.
 
RECOMMENDATION:  That City Council:
 
(1)      Approve the grant application (due June 26, 2015) to the Department of Justice in the amount of $31,713; and
(2)      Authorize the City Manager to execute all the necessary documents that may be required.
 
BACKGROUND:  The Federal Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program was first funded in FY2005, replacing the former Law Enforcement Block Grant (LEBG) program.  The City has participated in these programs since 1997.  The JAG grant would enable enhanced enforcement of Part I (serious) crimes.  The Police Department addresses Part I crime trends through task force style investigations involving multiple officers.
 
DISCUSSION:  Federal grant funds will be used for overtime to hire back officers to replace those temporarily assigned to investigate Part I crimes.  Staff received notification in mid-May to prepare the on-line application due June 26, 2015.  Alexandria's share of funding was predetermined by the grantor agency.
 
FISCAL IMPACT:  There is no required match from the City and, therefore, no additional fiscal impact from this grant.  
 
STAFF:
Earl L. Cook, Chief of Police
Christopher Wemple III, Captain, Police Department
Brenda D'Sylva, Division Chief, Police Department