Council authorizes grant applications for body cameras and a deployable mobile command vehicle

The Manvel City Council unanimously authorized staff to apply for two public‑safety grants: one to replace the police department’s body‑worn cameras and another to purchase a rapidly deployable mobile command and communications vehicle.

Jamie presented the body‑worn camera request to submit a grant application for $126,667 in total, which carries a 25% local match of $31,667. She said the request would fund replacement of 50 body cameras, purchase of 10 additional units, docking/charging stations, cloud‑based digital storage and an evidence management platform. “The grant is for $126,667. The grant will cover $95,000 and the match for the city will be $31,667,” Jamie said. Chief Traylor explained the current Motorola/WatchGuard system is outdated and the department will evaluate replacement systems (Motorola or Axon) and cover broader system upgrades in next year’s budget.

Council then considered a second grant for a 24‑foot mobile command/communications vehicle designed as a drivable, rapidly deployable forward‑command asset with radio patching, Motorola radios and turnkey equipment to support regional incidents. Jamie said the vehicle would be considered a regional asset under the grant (USI) and could be shared with neighboring jurisdictions. She estimated the fully equipped vehicle and equipment might cost in the ~$450,000–$500,000 range and said the USI grant provides 100% funding; council agreed to submit the resolution and support letters were encouraged.

Both grant applications were approved by voice vote (unanimous). Staff said grant timing and program terms will dictate procurement and any required local match or maintenance obligations.