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Commissioners approve two Byrne JAG applications: taser purchase and community outreach coordinator
Summary
St. Mary’s County commissioners authorized the sheriff’s office to apply for two Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance grants: roughly $20,593 for tasers and $51,623 to fund a civilian community outreach coordinator.
The St. Mary’s County Board of County Commissioners on May 27 authorized the sheriff’s office to submit two Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) applications.
The first authorization allowed the sheriff’s office to apply for a competitive local solicitation in the amount of approximately $20,593 to purchase non‑lethal equipment (taser units). Sheriff’s fiscal staff told the board the county match was not required and that the department expects to buy roughly 16 taser units if funded.
The second approved JAG application, a competitive request for $51,623 to the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention, would fund a civilian community development coordinator position. Presenters described the role as a full‑time civilian liaison who would organize community leaders, coordinate crime‑prevention programs, assist with National Night Out, Special Olympics and related outreach, and free sworn deputies from tasks that require sustained community engagement.
Commissioners discussed prior county funding for tasers and asked staff to clarify the department’s budget decisions; presenters said the funds sought do not duplicate existing county purchases. Commissioners supported applying for both grants and authorized the commissioner president to sign hard‑copy documents after electronic filing.
Vote
Both motions to authorize electronic filing and to approve execution of the Byrne JAG applications were approved by voice vote during the meeting.
