Criminal Justice/Public Safety Improvements

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Alexander City Police Department will use the Fiscal Year 2009 Congressionally Selected Awards Program funds for a Criminal Justice/Public Safety Improvements project. The goals of the project are to: (1) expand the community policing efforts and programs; (2) increase both the safety of the officers and improve work efficiency; (3) update portions of the 911 center for federally mandated narrow band compliance; and (4) improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the detective division. To meet these goals the funds will be used to cover training classes, purchase needed equipment, and support interaction in the community with increased one-on-one contact with the citizens and public education. The grant will allow the Department an opportunity to upgrade and improve the delivery of criminal justice services and should strengthen the ties between the community and the police department while reducing incidences of crime and criminal activity.

NCA/NCF