Title
Consider and take action on a resolution in support of the application for a continuation grant from the Office of the Governor of Texas, Criminal Justice Division for the League City Police Department Crime Victim Assistance Program (Chief of Police)
Background:
If approved this resolution will formalize City Council’s support for seeking continued grant funding for the League City Police Department’s Crime Victim Assistance Program. The existence of such a program is mandated by state law in accordance with Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 56.04 (c) and is vital to citizens who are victims of violent crime, including family violence. In FY2016 the League City Police Department responded to 899 reported instances of assaults and 87 reported instances of other violent crimes in which the victims were eligible for Crime Victims Assistance. From these, the department’s assistance program served 315 victims.
On September 27, 2011, City Council approved acceptance of the grant awarded from state’s Criminal Justice Division to hire a full-time, civilian Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and create a Crime Victim Assistance Program at the League City Police Department. After a nationwide search, a person was selected and hired for this position with employment beginning on February 8, 2012. The LCSW provides a complete system of services focused on the needs of people and families victimized by crimes ranging from sexual assault, domestic abuse and child abuse to physical assault, and stalking, among others. Services include orientation and assistance in navigating the justice system, counseling and other assistance related to crisis intervention and psychological support, referrals to community agencies offering emergency services and financial assistance, and education of department personnel, the public and local service providers regarding crime victims’ needs and rights in the criminal justice system.
This grant will once again provide funding towards two years of salary, benefits, and administrative costs for the department’s LCSW to continue the Crime Victim Assistance Program. The grant application for the funding period from October 1, 2017 through September 30, 2019 is due February 20, 2017. This resolution is not required at the time an application is submitted, but no funding will be awarded unless the resolution is approved. With the approval of this resolution, the grant will be accepted and signed off by the Finance Director.
The total cost of the two-year program is $231,878.93 to provide the funding of the salary, benefits and administrative costs for the LCSW. The grant will contribute $185,502.74 leaving the City responsible for the remaining $34,376.19, of which is salary, benefits and training, as well as $11,999.50 for in-kind match (derived from volunteer time and interns’ work).
Attachments:
1. Data Sheet
2. Proposed Resolution
FUNDING
{x} NOT APPLICABLE
{ } Funds are available from Account #___________________________
{ } Requires Budget Amendment to transfer from Account #____________to Account # ___________________