Frio County approves $55K ACOG grant for new patrol vehicle purchase

The Frio County Commissioners Court convened on December 30, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focused on funding and purchasing a new patrol vehicle for the Frio County Sheriff's Office.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding a grant of $55,136.25 from the Alamo Area Council of Governments (ACOG) designated for the purchase of a patrol vehicle. Officer De Leon presented the item, clarifying that the grant had already been accepted and certified by the county judge. The court confirmed that no further action was needed on the grant acceptance itself, as it was already active. However, a motion was made and passed to formally approve the use of the grant funds for the vehicle purchase, with Commissioner Carrizales making the motion and Commissioner Martinez seconding it.

Following this, Sheriff Pedro Salinas requested approval to purchase a 2024 Ford F-150 police responder from Sains Motor Company for $49,816.60, utilizing the previously mentioned ACOG grant. Officer De Leon explained that the vehicle would be outfitted similarly to previous units, and the purchase would not require a bidding process due to its alignment with the guidelines of the tips contract. The court discussed the potential for remaining grant funds to be used for outfitting the vehicle, noting that the grant was specifically for vehicle purchase and not for upgrades. Sheriff Salinas was advised to consult with the grant writer to clarify the use of any leftover funds.

The meeting concluded with a clear path forward for the vehicle purchase, ensuring that the Sheriff's Office would have the necessary resources to enhance its patrol capabilities. The court's decisions reflect a commitment to maintaining public safety through updated law enforcement equipment.