From
Fred Bates, Jr.
Title
Authorize the City Manager to continue the existing agreement with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), to act as a fiduciary for the North Texas Strike Force, as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) strategic enforcement initiative in the amount of $220,000 and to execute future renewal options with aggregate price fluctuations of the lesser of up to $50,000 or 25% of the original maximum price so long as sufficient funding is appropriated by the City Council to satisfy the City's obligation during the renewal terms
Presenter
Chief Steve Dye, Police Department, Assistant Chief Daniel Scesney, Police Department
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has requested the assistance of the Grand Prairie Police Department in implementing a strategic enforcement initiative, as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply. Subjects have already been arrested, within the City of Grand Prairie, belonging to some of the largest and most violent drug cartels. This initiative will help the Department combat these groups by partnering with the nation’s finest and most experienced investigators and giving the Department access to their resources and reach.
The Police Department will assign two Police Officers to be members of the strategic enforcement initiative, and the Department will also act as a fiduciary for the initiative. Fiduciary responsibilities include purchasing any supplies or equipment needed to operate the initiative. The Department will be reimbursed for any expenses, and will retain ownership of items purchased when the initiative has concluded.
The Police Departments initial participation in this enforcement initiative was approved by City Council in 2017. The annual operating budget for the FY 2018-2019 fiscal year has increased by more than $50,000, and thus needs additional approval by City Council.
Financial Consideration
The City of Grand Prairie will purchase any supplies and equipment needed for the operation of the North Texas Strike Force. The DEA will fully reimburse the City for these expenses, and the City will retain ownership of the items. Budgets are established by fiscal year. Proposed budget for the FY 2019 is $220,000 in the Public Safety Grant Fund. This budget may increase or decrease, with prior approval, based on current operational needs.