City Council Agenda Report
March 18, 2025
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Jesus M. Gomez, City Manager
BY: Ozzie Ramos, Deputy City Manager
SUBJECT: FISCAL YEAR 24/25 JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT - RESOLUTION NO. 25- 11 – BUDGET AMENDMENT
Background:
The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) federal program allows states and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime and improve the justice system.
The procedure for allocating JAG funds is formula based using population and crime statistics.
The full grant application was submitted on December 4, 2025. Staff received notice of awarded funds on January 14, 2025, that Norwalk’s 2024 JAG allocation was $27,887. Awarded funds must be expended no later than September 30, 2027.
Funds may be used to enhance law enforcement capabilities, delivery of services, and pay for equipment and technology improvements. Previous JAG awards have helped the City fund the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) for law enforcement programs, overtime, prosecution and court programs, prevention and education programs, corrections programs, drug treatment programs and planning, evaluation, and/or technology improvements for public safety.
Proposed JAG Grant Funding Allocation:
The Department of Public Safety partners with the LASD to strengthen community policing efforts and effectively combat crime. As part of this initiative, the City has sought JAG funding for fiscal year 2024/2025 to enhance its law enforcement capabilities by acquiring Mobile Data Computers (MDCs) for patrol vehicles operated by Public Safety Officers. The installation of Mobile Data Computers (MDCs) in City vehicles allows for real-time access to vital vehicle and driver information. The use of MDCs also enhances dispatching and monitoring service calls, helping officers to effectively address quality of life issues, and enforce parking and municipal codes.
City Council March 18, 2025
Justice Assistance Grant – Resolution No. 25-11 Page No. 2 1 2
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The funding received will be utilized to acquire one additional MDC unit, while continuing the lease for 23 MDCs for Public Safety, bringing the total to 24 MDCs.
Additionally, the City has an existing Municipal Law Enforcement Service Agreement with Los Angeles County, which allows for the leasing, data access, and maintenance of MDC equipment from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2029.
Fiscal Impact:
The total cost for the maintenance and data services of the MDCs through June 30, 2025 is $33,407. This amount includes a one-time purchase cost of $8,805 for an additional MDC unit.
The JAG award funding of $27,887 will cover a portion of these expenses, with the remaining balance of $5,520 be covered by the Community Oriented Policing Services grant. All grant funds are expected to be expended by June 30, 2025.
Citizens Advised:
N/A
Strategic Plan 2023 Implementation:
The recommended action will further the City’s Strategic Plan Goal 2: Work in partnership with all our communities to achieve safe & livable neighborhoods.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends City Council adopt Resolution No. 25-11, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWALK AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024/25 ADOPTED BUDGET TO ADD THE EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE
ASSISTANCE GRANT AWARD AND ALLOCATE COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES GRANT FUNDS, in the amounts of $27,887 and $5,520 respectively, for the purchase of and operating costs for an additional Mobile Data Computer; and authorize the City Manager as Chief Executive to complete and submit grant related documents and amendments.
Attachments:
Resolution No. 25-11