Title
Consider a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit an application to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles for the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority Senate Bill 224 Grant Program for 2025-26.
Body
The proposed resolution would authorize an application to the Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority’s 2025-26 Catalytic Converter Grant program to support the enforcement of vehicle-related crime. The Police Department is seeking a $514,228 program to purchase a second year of funding for automated license plate readers (ALPR) from Flock Safety, additional infrastructure for the drone-as-first-responder (DFR) program, traffic cameras, and training. The Authority would provide $411,283.40 in grant funding, with $102,845.60 required in City matching funds.
These elements are sought as part of a regional initiative begun earlier this year. The Department is partnering with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Georgetown, Leander, Pflugerville, Hutto, Buda, and Jarrell to address vehicle-related crime. Earlier this year, a similar grant was awarded to provide first-year funding for ALPR cameras, as well as the initial infrastructure necessary to start the drone program. The traffic cameras component of the proposed grant would place 30 traffic cameras at signalized intersections in the City that do not currently have them.
This application is for an additional one-year grant, and the Flock Safety cameras are subject to annual charges. In the event that funding ends, the Department’s intent is to end the recurring charges associated with the Flock program. We would seek continuation of the DFR program in the normal budget process.
Cost: $514,228.00 ($102,845.60 in City matching funds)
Source of Funds: Law Enforcement Fund