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RESOLUTION NO. 2015-165 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $21,599 FROM U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommended Action
Council adopt the resolution.
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SUMMARY
The Police Department has been allocated $21,599 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to purchase a contraband inspection kit to aid police personnel in locating concealed contraband.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Development Services Director has reviewed the proposed activities for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that the activities are not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378(b)(4) of the State CEQA Guidelines because the activity is accepting funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; therefore, pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Thus, no environmental review is necessary.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Not Applicable.
DISCUSSION
Compartments are the most common way for contraband to be smuggled in and out of the country, but locating them is extremely difficult. The Police Department is requesting to purchase a contraband inspection kit to assist officers locating concealed contraband in hidden compartments. The purchase of this equipment will be fully reimbursed by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which results in no net fiscal impact to the City. HSI is a critical investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is a vital asset in combating criminal organizations illegally exploiting America's travel, trade, financial and immigration systems.
The contraband inspection kit will enhance police efforts of locating concealed contraband, typically in mobile conveyances such as vehicles, boats, and airplanes. The scope included in the kit will be used to search areas such as fuel tanks and vehicle frames where contraband can be hidden but difficult to see. This particular scope is certified for use in chemical environments and has a color monitor with the capability to take pictures and video for evidentiary purposes. A density meter is also part of the kit which allows officers to locate contraband in concealed areas by using radar technology to determine if a void is filled with drugs, cash, or firearms.
DECISION-MAKER CONFLICT
Staff has reviewed the decision contemplated by this action and has determined that it is not site-specific and consequently, the 500-foot rule found in California Code of Regulations Title 2, section 18705.2(a)(11), is not applicable to this decision for purposes of determining a disqualifying real property-related financial conflict of interest under the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov't Code § 87100, et seq.).
Staff is not independently aware, and has not been informed by any City Councilmember, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision maker conflict of interest in this matter.
LINK TO STRATEGIC GOALS
The City’s Strategic Plan has five major goals: Operational Excellence, Economic Vitality, Healthy Community, Strong and Secure Neighborhoods and a Connected Community. Funds received by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security support the goal of Strong Secure Neighborhoods by equipping law enforcement personnel with adequate resources to provide a safe community.
CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of this resolution will result in a one-time appropriation of $21,599 to the capital category of the Police Department budget. The funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will completely offset these costs, resulting in no net fiscal impact to the General Fund.
ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT
There is no ongoing fiscal impact.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
Staff Contact: Jonathan Alegre