Board approves $140,794 DCJS crisis‑intervention grant appropriation

The Prince George County Board of Supervisors voted to appropriate a $140,794 grant awarded through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP).

County staff told the board the award requires no local match and would support contracted services including a defense attorney, a part‑time temporary intern, a part‑time deputy sheriff, supplies, staff travel to a national conference and housing assistance for program participants.

Grama Drury presented the request and said the award period was described during the briefing as 15 months; she told the board she was not certain whether the county would be required to pick up positions if continuation funding is not available. Board members asked whether the grant creates a permanent position; staff replied that grants are typically stopgap or temporary and continuation funding is not guaranteed.

A supervisor noted staff had been offered the potential to double the grant timeline and funding pending federal approval; staff said any change would require official approval.

The board approved the appropriation by roll call with all present voting yes. Staff did not specify a local match and said the appropriation would be used for the line items presented at the meeting. The board asked staff to report back on implementation if the timeline or award amount is extended.

The appropriation moves grant funds into the county budget to allow contracting and expenditures described in the presentation.