Lavaca County sheriff authorized to seek SB 8 and Operation Lone Star funds
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Summary
The commissioners approved resolutions allowing the sheriff's office to apply for SB 8 (sheriff grant tied to immigration enforcement/287(g)-style activity) and Operation Lone Star FY2027; presenters said SB 8 requires no cash match and that OLS awards vary by application, with last year's local award around $230,000.
The Lavaca County Commissioners Court on Feb. 26 approved resolutions allowing the sheriff's office to apply for two state programs: SB 8 grant funds and the governor's Operation Lone Star (OLS) grant for fiscal 2027.
Captain Josh explained that the SB 8 program provides funding based on a county's population tier and requires no local cash match; funds must be spent on equipment or personnel supporting a 287(g)-style mission within two years. He said, "This grant specifically, provides a certain amount of money depending on your county's population." The court approved the resolution to apply by voice vote.
On Operation Lone Star, Captain Josh described the requested application as a continuation grant. "I believe we were awarded, around the $230,000 mark" last year, he said, adding that final awards depend on the application and statewide allocation. Commissioners approved a resolution permitting submission of an OLS application for FY2027.
Both approvals authorize the sheriff's office to prepare and submit applications; the court did not approve grant budgets or accept awards at the meeting. Captain Josh said final award amounts will be determined when the governor's office completes grant allocations.
