Title
U.S. Department of Justice Bulletproof Vest Partnership (NB)
This is a request for City Commission approval to accept grant funds for the U.S. Department of Justice Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program.
Explanation
The U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, invited the City of Gainesville to apply for $14,715 in grant funding through the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program. The program reimburses law enforcement agencies for up to fifty percent (50%) of the total cost of purchasing bulletproof vests to replace Zylon bulletproof vests and vests that are reaching safety expiration dates. The amount the City of Gainesville was eligible to apply for was established by the U.S. Department of Justice. The City submitted an application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the designated amount of grant funding.
Fiscal Note
The City of Gainesville will be able to purchase up to $29,430 and be reimbursed for fifty percent (50%) of the cost up to a maximum of $14,715. The City's portion of the funding is requested to come from departmental Federal Forfeiture Contraband Funds. Current unencumbered funds are $1,837,556 as of May 28, 2013.
Recommendation
The City Commission authorize the City Manager to: 1) accept the $14,715 in grant funds, 2) execute any other necessary documents, pending review by the City Attorney as to form and legality, and 3) authorize the City's portion of the funding to be paid from the Federal Forfeiture Contraband Funds.
Alternative Recommendation
The City Commission decline the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Award in the amount of $14,715 and advise staff not to accept the funds.