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RESOLUTION NO. 2015-027 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $144,954 FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE GRANT FUND FOR OPERATION STONEGARDEN (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommended Action
Council adopt the resolution.
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SUMMARY
Since the events of September 11, 2001, the interception of terrorists and their weapons attempting entry across the nation's borders has become the priority mission of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Grant funding via "Operation Stonegarden" has been awarded to the San Diego County region to facilitate regional partnerships and enhance border enforcement capabilities. In coordination with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and grant administration by the County of San Diego, the Police Department has been allocated $144,954 for Operation Stonegarden 2014 funding.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This proposed activity has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the activity is not a "Project" as defined under Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines because it will not result in a physical change in the environment; therefore, pursuant to Section 15060(c)(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
The mission of Operation Stonegarden is to raise border security by increasing law enforcement presence along the border, intelligence/information sharing and communication. Participating agencies in this regional effort include the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), San Diego County Sheriff's Department, California Department of Motor Vehicles, California Highway Patrol, California Fish and Game, San Diego County Probation Department and San Diego Harbor Police.
The Chula Vista Police Department is in the unique position of being geographically located in close proximity to the border (5 miles) with three main north/south arteries traversing the city. As a result, multiple local and federal agencies frequently ask the Department for assistance and interdiction of both north and south bound traffic involved in border-related crimes. The Police Department will continue to participate in regional efforts of border enforcement on an overtime basis. The Department was funded over $3.9 million in prior Stonegarden awards, and the 2014 funding of $144,954 will continue those regional efforts.
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 section 18704.2(a)(1) is not applicable to this decision. Staff is not independently aware, nor has staff 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 for Operation Stonegarden supports the goal of Strong and Secure Neighborhoods by providing additional law enforcement presence in the community.
CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of this resolution will result in a one-time appropriation of $144,954 to personnel services of the Police Grant Fund. 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