Title
Consider and take action on a resolution authorizing the Police Department to submit a grant application to the State of Texas Office of the Governor’s FY2026 State Homeland Security Program to seek funding for robot equipment upgrades that will provide a comprehensive digital communications upgrade for the Bay Area Regional Bomb Squad (BARBS) robotics platform (Chief of Police)
Background:
Approval of this item will allow the City to pursue federal funding to sustain critical regional bomb response capabilities without impact to the General Fund. Transitioning from analog to digital provides three critical operational advantages: Enhanced Signal Penetration and Encryption, Operational Longevity, and Future Interoperability.
The Governor’s Office, through the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC), is soliciting applications for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP). The purpose of this program is to support state and local efforts to prevent terrorism and targeted violence and to strengthen preparedness for threats that pose the greatest risk to Texas communities.
The League City Police Department, on behalf of the Bay Area Regional Bomb Squad (BARBS), is requesting approval to submit a $150,000 grant application to upgrade digital communications systems on three Spartan bomb disposal robots. These robots are deployed to halt and neutralize terrorism-related threats throughout the region. Currently, they rely on obsolete analog communication systems that have reached end-of-life status and are no longer supported by the manufacturer.
The BARBS response area includes significant critical infrastructure, including NASA facilities, refineries, and major transportation networks. Upgrading to digital communications will improve reliability in high-interference environments, reduce the risk of operational failure, and ensure continued mission readiness.
BARBS is a FEMA-recognized Type I regional bomb squad that deploys approximately 125 times per year.
This grant does not require matching funds; however, the City of League City would be responsible for initially purchasing the vehicles and subsequently seeking reimbursement from the State if the grant is awarded.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. Copy of grant opportunity
3. Grant application pre-approval form
CONTRACT ORIGINATION:
FUNDING
{x} If approved, funding in the amount of $150,000 will be budgeted in Police Equipment Repair & Maintenance 2100000-52400, upon Council’s approval of the FY2027 budget. Grant Proceeds will post to Homeland Security Grant revenue account #0100-48910 in the same amount.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{X} Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor - Safe and Desirable Community