Lancaster council authorizes application for up to $2 million DOJ violence-prevention grant

The Lancaster City Council voted to authorize submission of Resolution 24-19, approving the city’s application to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention grant program, which offers up to $2,000,000 over the grant period and requires local partnerships and a research collaborator.

Chief (speaker 7) described the grant as a chance to fund a place-based, community-oriented and data-driven effort focused on homicide and gun violence. "This is a very exciting opportunity for the Lancaster Police Department and really for the city of Lancaster," the chief said, asking for council authorization to apply.

Dr. Paul McKinney (speaker 6), the invited research partner, told council this type of DOJ program typically starts with an extensive community needs assessment to identify factors that drive violence — from abandoned buildings to unemployment — and then builds targeted strategies. Dr. McKinney said the grant process also includes bonus points for including an equity partner and that if those points are sought, no less than 40% of the funds "have to go to that equity partner." He added the grant emphasizes measurable planning and community input.

Presenters said the grant would not require a local match and laid out possible program elements including vocational training, legal assistance and re-entry supports for people leaving incarceration. Chief (speaker 7) named Faith Hope and Victory Church and Reverend Anthony Pelham as an example of a potential equity partner the city has discussed working with.

Councilors asked about who would be selected as an equity partner and whether the proposal could be adjusted after initial submission based on community input; Dr. McKinney said the proposal requires a clear plan but can be informed and adapted by the required community assessment.

After discussion, the council approved the motion by roll-call vote to authorize staff to submit the application and accept the grant if awarded. The resolution authorizes planning steps that would include forming a community partnership and collaborating with the research partner noted.