Council authorizes $16,970 JAG grant application to buy evidence‑drying cabinet and investigative camera

Chief Goldstein presented Resolution 9262 and asked council to authorize the city to apply for an Edwin Brin Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for which the city is eligible for $16,970.

"We are eligible for $16,970," Chief Goldstein said, explaining the formula grant is based on population and Part I violent‑crime statistics and requires no city match. He described two proposed purchases: a forensic evidence drying cabinet to replace an aging unit used to preserve wet or biological evidence, and a multi‑use investigative camera system intended to assist in complex criminal investigations, including covert video surveillance when properly authorized.

Council members asked clarifying questions about camera use and data storage; Chief Goldstein said the camera would be specific to investigations, not the city's public cloud camera system, and that any legally sensitive footage would require warrants and review by the district attorney. Council then moved and unanimously approved the resolution to apply for the grant.