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Meeting Date:	01/22/2024
Approval for submission of Body-Worn Camera Grant Program
Submitted for:	Jorge Veliz	Submitted By:	Jorge Veliz
Department:	Constable Precinct 1

Subject:

Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of a grant application and resolution to the Office of the Governor Criminal Justice Division for the FY25 Body-Worn Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $156,515 for Body Worn Camera (BWCs) equipment, software, and supplies; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires cash match of 25% ($39,128.75), which will be met utilizing the Constable Pct. 1 Office forfeiture funds (Fund #2180) for a total project cost estimated at $156,515; and, thus will have no impact to the general fund. All required documents were reviewed by the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Guadalupe Gomez, Webb County Constable Pct. 1; Grant Fund #2180]

Issue: Our Office does not currently have any Body Worn Cameras and with this valuable technology it will benefit our deputies and the community.

Solution: Grant application opportunity to increase transparency and accountability through the continued utilization of body-worn cameras for its deputies.

Result: Webb County Constable Pct. 1 will be able to utilize this vital technology so it can have greater transparency and accountability.

Background:

Body-worn cameras (BWCs) can be highly effective, providing an inalterable audio and visual record of interactions that can capture empirical evidence in the event of a crime, police-citizen interaction, or use-of-force incident. Preliminary research by the U.S. Department of Justice indicates that departments that have effectively implemented body-worn cameras (BWC) programs have received fewer public complaints, file fewer use-of-force reports, and show a reduction in adjudicated complaints resulting in a decrease of settlements.

Previous Court Action:

Fiscal Impact

Budget Account Number:	to be determined
Funding Source:	Grant Revenue
Balance:	Various
Financial Impact:
$156,515 Estimated grant request for equipment, software and supplies. $39,128.75 Estimated cash match from the Constable Pct. 1 Office Federal Forfeiture Funds (2180)

Attachments
Resolution
Letter of Intent to apply