Board approves application for $1 million Violent Crime Intervention Fund grant for patrol-based purchases

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen authorized city staff to apply for and accept a $1 million award from the state Violent Crime Intervention Fund to fund patrol-based activities for the Springfield Police Department.

City Manager Ryan Martin told the board the funding amount in the packet was not a typo: “that’s actually a million dollar grant from the state of Tennessee, from the Violent Crime Intervention Fund.” He said the grant covers patrol-related items that prevent and deter violent crime and that the police department is prioritizing purchases that align with its strategic plan.

Martin and the record noted potential purchases could include additional vehicle and pedestrian barriers used downtown for events and “LPRs” (license-plate readers) to assist in rapid suspect location. Martin described the grant as broadly aimed at preventing and deterring violent crime and said the police department will identify priorities for equipment purchase and deployment.

Alderman Trotter moved to approve the application and acceptance; Alderman Holloman seconded. The board voted 7-0 to authorize submission and acceptance. The motion approved only the application/acceptance; final purchases will follow applicable procurement and grant rules and remain subject to the grant award terms.

During discussion some aldermen asked whether the grant would fund community-policing interventions focused on neighborhood engagement; staff answered this particular grant is intended for patrol-based activities and equipment purchases rather than outreach programs, though officials noted other programs and grants may support community-intervention strategies.

No ordinance or local match was identified in the meeting record; staff said they would follow procurement rules and advise the board on specific purchases as needed.