Council hears public comment and department briefing on proposed $385,383 Edward Byrne grant

The Omaha City Council heard public comment and an Omaha Police Department summary on Jan. 28 regarding a proposed $385,383 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant application and disbursement.

Multiple public speakers raised questions about potential federal oversight, whether the funds duplicate other county or city awards, and how the dollars would be distributed. Councilwoman Melton clarified that the application is a joint city–county application and that the funds are split between the city and county; she also pointed the public to the agenda attachment showing a detailed, itemized budget.

Deputy Chief Steve Servani summarized planned uses for the city’s portion (approximately $186,000), saying the funds would support investigative equipment and training for forensics, certification and training costs, a K-9 for the bloodhound program, community outreach events, and behavioral-health co-responder activities that pair officers with licensed mental-health professionals. Servani said the grant-funded purchases and programs are itemized in the application and overseen by a grant coordinator with quarterly meetings to review spending and program outcomes.

Public commenters expressed concern about federal influence and whether funds might be frozen by federal action. Servani and council members responded that public-safety grants historically have been treated as a priority and that the city maintains grant oversight; Councilwoman Melton said the full, itemized 56-page spending attachment is available on the city clerk’s website under agenda item 50.

Council members requested evaluation reports and performance data; Servani said he would share evaluation and grant reports with council members and the public on request. The public hearing portion concluded with staff offering follow-up and documentation.