SMPD Seeks Public Comment On 2006 JAG Grant Proposal:

The public can comment on the City of Santa Monica’s grant application for the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance through noon on March 1. Last year, the City of Santa Monica used its JAG allocation to fund the Police Department’s DNA and Advanced Forensic Evidence Testing program, which underwrites the costs associated with submitting biological and fiber evidence to certified forensic labs for testing and analysis. The City proposes using its 2006 JAG grant allocation to continue funding the DNA program for another year, and is soliciting comments from members of public on its proposed use of the $41,235 JAG grant. Federal rules require that the JAG grant funds be used for eligible law enforcement project(s) that are not funded in the jurisdiction’s operating budget. The current and proposed use is an eligible use of the funds. Grantees have four years from the date of the award to spend the funds for approved uses. The draft grant application is available for public review and written comment at the City’s Records and Elections office in City Hall, the Santa Monica Police Department, 333 Olympic Drive, at its website at: http://www.santamonicapd.orgWritten comments must be received by mail, fax, or e-mail no later than 5 p.m. on March 1, to Santa Monica Police Department, Planning & Research Unit, Room 354, 333 Olympic Drive, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Fax number is (310) 260-2867, attention: Laura.Questions regarding the JAG grant application should be addressed to Laura Ritchie-Rojas via the mail, fax or e-mail address provided above.