FY 2009 Justice Assistance Grant Program

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states and units of local governments, including tribes, to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and local needs and conditions. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice, including for any one or more of the following purpose areas: 1) law enforcement programs; 2) prosecution and court programs; 3) prevention and education programs; 4) corrections and community corrections programs; 5) drug treatment and enforcement programs; 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs; and 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).

The disparate jurisdictions consisting of Belknap County and the city of Laconia will use their Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award in the amount of $26,913 to acquire a point to point broadband microwave link and update workstation furnishings. The city of Laconia, serving as the fiscal agent, will use the entire award in a joint effort with Belknap County to dramatically increase the efficiency of the Laconia Police Department's communications system. The current system is prone to failure during severe storms which adversely affects the relay of emergency and non-emergency calls to police officers. The new system will enhance radio communications capability throughout the city. In addition, the department will purchase and update workstation furnishings in the communication center. The department's 24-hour communication center is responsible for dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls within the city of Laconia. To improve the ergonomics and functionality of the dispatch computers, the department will purchase two dispatch console stations specifically designed for communication centers. These consoles provide the proper positioning of computer keyboards and monitors to reduce physical strain on the user.

NCA/NCF