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Council approves $98,790 cannabis‑tax grant for DUI enforcement; debate erupts over drones
Summary
Southgate accepted a $98,790 California Highway Patrol cannabis tax fund grant for FY26‑27 — $23,040 for overtime, $10,000 for DUI training and $65,750 for equipment including a police motorcycle and a breathalyzer. Public commenters pressed for drone funding; staff said the grant’s terms and staffing needs limit options.
The Southgate City Council voted to accept and appropriate a California Highway Patrol Cannabis Tax Fund grant totaling $98,790 for FY26‑27 to support impaired‑driving enforcement.
Police Chief Manuel Arana explained the proposed breakdown: $23,040 for overtime enforcement targeting impaired driving, $10,000 for specialized DUI training, and $65,750 for purchase and outfitting of a police motorcycle plus a DUI intoximeter for the jail. "The purpose of this grant is to enhance public safety by increasing education and enforcement related to impaired driving," Arana said.
During public comment Zoom participant Mario Dominguez criticized spending on a motorcycle and again urged the city to prioritize a $50,000 police‑grade drone. City Manager Rob Houston and other councilmembers responded that the CTF grant has specific allowable uses and that drones require separate funding, trained operators, software, and additional infrastructure. Houston warned that technology gaps are significant and noted requirements such as staffing and training costs that make immediate drone procurement impractical for the city.
After discussion the council approved the grant and associated appropriations by roll call.
