COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Christopher Williams, Chief of Police
DATE: July 7, 2026
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the Submission of an Application for the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services F iscal Year 2026 Technology and Equipment Program Grant
Description:
The City Council will consider authorizing the submission of an application for the U.S.
Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services Fiscal Year 2026 Technology and Equipment Program Grant.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the submission of an application for the U.S.
Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services F iscal Year 2026 Technology and Equipment Program Grant; and
2. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to submit grant application.
BACKGROUND:
The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) administers grant programs design ed to advance public safety through community policing, technology, and innovation. The Technology and Equipment Program (TEP) provides funding to law enforcement agencies for technology, equipment, and related resources that enhance public safety operatio ns and improve service delivery to the community.
The Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) is currently developing a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program and a Real Time Information Center (RTIC) to enhance the Department’s ability to respond to calls f or service, improve situational awareness, and provide operational support to personnel in the field. These initiatives are intended to leverage technology to improve emergency response capabilities, increase operational efficiency, and enhance public safety services throughout the City.
DISCUSSION:
The SMPD would like to submit a grant application for the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Technology and Equipment Program to support the development and implementation of its DFR program and RTIC. If awarded, the grant will provide funding 2 for a two -year period to assist with establishing and operating these technology -based public safety initiatives.
The DFR program is intended to provide rapid aerial response capabilities that will allow trained personnel to assess incidents and provide real -time information to responding officers. The RTIC is being developed to integrate information from various public safety systems and technology platforms to provide enhanced situational awareness and operational support for field personnel and supervisors.
Funding requested through the grant program will be used for technology infrastructure, software licensing, equipment purchases, training, and other eligible expenses associated with the development and operation of the DFR and RTIC programs.
Fiscal Considerations
There are no matching funds required for this grant application.
Impact on the Community
If awarded, this grant funding will assist the Santa Maria Police Department in developing advanced technology capabilities designed to improve public safety services. The DFR and RTIC programs are expected to enhance emergency response, improve situationa l awareness, support crime reduction efforts, and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of police operations throughout the City.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution – FY 2026 Technology and Equipment Program (TEP) Grant Application