Technology Re-investment Initiative

This grant program is authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5) (the 'Recovery Act') and by 42 U.S.C. 3751(a). The stated purposes of the Recovery Act are: to preserve and create jobs and promote economic recovery; to assist those most impacted by the recession; to provide investments needed to increase economic efficiency by spurring technological advances in science and health; to invest in transportation, environmental protection, and other infrastructure that will provide long-term economic benefits; and to stabilize state and local government budgets, in order to minimize and avoid reductions in essential services and counterproductive state and local tax increases. The Recovery Act places great emphasis on accountability and transparency in the use of taxpayer dollars. Among other things, it creates a new Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board and a new website ' Recovery.gov ' to provide information to the public, including access to detailed information on grants and contracts made with Recovery Act funds.

The Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program funded under the Recovery Act is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. Recovery JAG funds support all components of the criminal justice system, from multi-jurisdictional drug and gang task forces to crime prevention and domestic violence programs, courts, corrections, treatment, and justice information sharing initiatives. Recovery JAG funded projects may address crime through the provision of services directly to individuals and/or communities and by improving the effectiveness and efficiency of criminal justice systems, processes, and procedures.

The city of Ypsilanti will use the FY 2009 Recovery Act JAG funds to replace ailing technology, support new technology to enhance community based programs, and support program administrator salaries. Grant funds will replace in-car video recording systems and fund a digital network that will allow the agency to securely access evidence from any network-connected computer without a need for additional software. The implementation of an advanced digital in-car video system will provide clear coverage of police officer activities through digital recording and archiving of activity and audio dialogue. The remainder of the funds will be used to replace undercover surveillance body wire. The agency also intends to purchase a portable video surveillance system. This system will allow wireless communication in a controlled and generally inaccessible environment. The system allows for the continuous monitoring of desired areas that are determined to be at risk for environmental blight and criminal activity.

NCA/NCF