Meridian council approves federal SS4A grant application, cybersecurity grant application, $1.9M camera contract, several engineering task orders and vehicle/fi

Meridian City Council on an evening agenda approved a package of grant applications, contracts, task orders, vehicle financing and budget amendments intended to fund public-safety technology, water-utility asset management and street rehabilitation.

The council authorized the city to apply for a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant worth $160,000, with a $40,000 local match, and approved an application to the Department of Homeland Security State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program. "This is an SS4A grant, Safe Streets for All. It's a hundred and $60,000 grant from the federal government with a $40,000 match from the city of Meridian. And this is a commitment for Meridian to eliminate roadway fatalities and serious injuries," said Dr. Thomas (city staff), describing the SS4A award and the city's matching commitment. An unnamed city staff member later described the cybersecurity program as "a grant that we can apply for, to help us pay for any type of cybersecurity tools ... to aid us in protecting ourselves against cyber threats."

Council members also accepted a consolidated bid for security cameras and a citywide camera system from Xylem Corporation for $1,896,993.17. City staff explained the contract consolidates previously separated quotes and will place cameras in city buildings, at public works and community development facilities, the parking garage and other locations; costs are allocated to the departments that will host the equipment. Council approved a related master services agreement with Filam Corporation for remote or on-site assistance to maintain and repair computer equipment that supports the camera system.

On utilities and…