Commissioners hold public hearing, approve FY24 JAG allocation for county criminal justice programs

Bexar County Commissioners Court held a public hearing Jan. 7 on the proposed allocation of fiscal year 2024 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) funds and approved the county’s recommended distribution after no citizens signed up to comment.

County staff explained the total local allocation is $873,940, split 60% to the county and 40% to the city of San Antonio; Bexar County’s share was reported as $524,000. The advisory committee proposed continuing the same personnel positions supported by JAG. Staff noted a roughly $93,000 shortfall versus personnel cost projections and said the gap would be covered by savings from prior allocations rather than the general fund.

Commissioners discussed the grant’s history and whether the 60/40 split had changed; staff said the split has been the practice for decades. Commissioners asked whether city uses were included in the backup and received details on city allocations for child welfare investigations. The court approved ratification of the electronic application, acceptance of funds and signature authority for the county judge.

County officials said the JAG award underwrites court‑related public safety positions and that the county will monitor the grant and identify any future general‑fund implications if federal funding levels fluctuate.