Council briefed on $49,024 Homeland Security grant to buy two mobile camera trailers for election and event security

City staff told the council they received a $49,024 award from the Texas Office of the Governor’s Homeland Security Grant Program to purchase two mobile camera trailers the city would own and operate for election site security and other public‑safety needs.

Staff presentation: Missus Williams (Homeland Security/Emergency Management staff) explained the original grant application targeted fixed security cameras at eight fire stations previously used as polling places, but staff revised the scope after those stations were dropped as polling locations because of ADA access concerns. Under the approved scope adjustment the city may buy two self‑contained camera trailers equipped with generators and mobile connectivity. Williams said the trailers “are self contained with generators” and “the cost of purchasing the cameras the camera trailers is $49,024, and the Texas office of the governor has awarded that $49,024 under this homeland security grant program with no local match.”

Usage and privacy: Williams said the camera trailers are intended to be sited outdoors in parking areas or flat spaces near polling places and other large events to provide an overview rather than invasive, individually identifiable imagery. She described encrypted transmission and said feeds could be routed to the Real Time Crime Center or the Emergency Operations Center for monitoring when activated. Council members asked about privacy, monitoring, warranty coverage (staff said units include a five‑year equipment warranty and lifetime technical support), and maintenance; staff said routine maintenance would be budgeted in operations.

What it allows: Staff said the grant permits use at national, state, regional, and local elections and for special events or construction‑site security when after‑hours coverage is needed. Williams added the vehicles will be custom wrapped to show city ownership and will have certificates of origin and VIN numbers.

Ending: The council was asked to accept the grant and authorize purchase and execution of related documents; the item was on the consent/work session agenda for formal acceptance and purchase authorization in the regular session.