Groves accepts state grants for radios and body-worn cameras; city plans five-year equipment plan
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Summary
Groves officials said the state will fund a large portion of two grants — roughly $28,137.10 for radios and about 58% of a body-worn camera system — and described vendor selection, required city match and a five-year payment plan for the camera/radio system.
City police and administration told the council on Dec. 20 that two state grant awards will fund a substantial share of a multi-component radio and body-worn camera effort.
Presenter (identified in the meeting as Dr. Roberts/Marshall) said the Office of the Governor awarded approximately $28,137.10 for portable radios and that the body-worn camera grant covers roughly 58% of the department’s entire requested package. The presenter referenced a packet figure near $110,917.54 in the meeting discussion and said the grant requires a 25% city match.
Staff explained the grant structure: the state pays a large share post-award and the city must meet several conditions to obtain reimbursement, including a SWIC review (which staff said has been submitted and approved) and reporting to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Presenter said the city solicited multiple quotes — including Motorola (WatchGuard), Axon and a vendor referenced as Utility — and recommended Utility because of platform features, integrated software and reduced ongoing costs through included service and firmware updates.
Officials said the vendor has already shipped some hardware, training will be scheduled for all personnel and they structured a five-year payment plan with the vendor to spread remaining costs. Staff noted that some components are not eligible under the body-worn camera grant (for example, forward- or passenger-facing camera systems were excluded under the grant rules as explained at the meeting).
The council was also told that the city will not pay for defective equipment under the service agreement for the five-year period, and that the arrangement includes firmware and software updates during the contract term. Council approved related invoice items listed on the Dec. 23 invoice list, which included a large payment line tied to the camera/radio program.
Staff committed to the required post-award reporting and to return to council as necessary with contract and budgetary steps.