DEPARTMENT: Police Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: William P. McManus, Chief of Police
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Program Grant
SUMMARY:
This ordinance authorizes the submission of a grant application and acceptance of funds upon award, not to exceed $2,000,000, from the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division (CJD) for the Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Program to establish a multi-agency TAG Task Force Center in San Antonio.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The San Antonio Police Department was chosen by the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division (CJD) to apply for an invitation-only grant opportunity to initiate and establish a multi-agency task force in San Antonio to combat gang activity in the area. The grant would be similar to the HIDTA concept in that the program would be a working group/task force that includes federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The objective is to provide a central point for investigative and operation coordination and de-confliction of investigations of gang activity and increase officer safety by not compromising an active investigation or targeting an undercover officer.
The grant request would be for an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 with the initial grant period being for six (6) months (March 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016) and with an extension to run from September 1, 2016 through August 31, 2017. Funding will be split between the two years to coincide with the state fiscal years. Funding for FY16 would be approximately $1,125,000 and funding for FY17 would be approximately $844,000.
The funds are expected to be available upon completion of the grant application. While the grant is currently scheduled for 18 months, the Governor’s Office has indicated that there is an expectation of funds continuing beyond the initial grant cycle. There has also been discussion with CJD regarding future funding in subsequent years.
As the fiscal agent for the grant, the SAPD would hire a program director and administrative assistant, which would be funded through the grant. Once awarded, the SAPD will initiate the request for proposal (RFP) solicitation process for leasing of office space for the TAG Task Force Center. The selected building will meet accommodation requirements or can be made to meet requirements with minimal finish out. The building would be “move-in” ready six months from proposal acceptance.
This program is being modeled after a successful program already in operation in Houston and North Richland Hills, Texas. Members of SAPD’s Research and Planning Unit have consulted with members of the Houston TAG program and determined the strengths and limitations. Staff has also worked to assure that this program will build on the strengths and modify the areas which can be improved upon. The Office of the Governor expresses considerable confidence in the ability of the San Antonio Police Department to establish this program and build it into a self-sustaining project.
Based on initial commitments there are twelve agencies (including SAPD) committing approximately 84 personnel to the program. It is expected that the program will eventually include over 15 agencies and upwards of 120 personnel.
ISSUE:
The San Antonio Police Department has been requested by the Office of the Governor to initiate a multi-agency task force to combat gang activity in the area. The CJD is offering up to $2,000,000 to offset costs of establishing this task force. Several agencies have already expressed interest in participating in this task force and have offered personnel for the program.
ALTERNATIVES:
To not apply for the grant and continue operations as they are currently conducted.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This grant provides funding in an amount up to $2,000,000 for the period March 1, 2016 through August 31, 2017. Anticipated expenses for FY16 would be approximately $1,125,000 and anticipated expenses for FY17 would be approximately $844,000. No cash or in-kind match is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the City of San Antonio move forward in preparing and submitting this grant proposal and coordinating with other agencies to reduce gang violence in this area.