2026 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) PROGRAM
In August 2026, the Ames Police Department received notice that it is eligible to apply for grant funding through the 2026 Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. JAG funding may be used to support a broad range of criminal justice initiatives, including personnel, training, equipment, technology, supplies, contractual support, and information systems that improve or enhance law enforcement and public safety services.
Because the Story County Sheriff's Office provides jail services for Story County, grant requirements mandate that both agencies participate in the application process. As a result, the City of Ames and Story County must enter into a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the application, administration, and use of any awarded grant funds.
Total funding potentially available to the Ames Police Department and the Story County Sheriff’s Office through this grant is $16,803. There is no match required with this grant.
The Ames Police Department proposes to use JAG funding to modernize a portion of its patrol rifle inventory through the purchase of replacement patrol rifles, optics, weapon-mounted lights, and related accessories. Patrol rifles are critical tools used during active violence incidents, armed subject encounters, and other high-risk situations requiring enhanced accuracy and effective threat mitigation.
The Department currently maintains an inventory of 16 rifle systems assigned to patrol operations. Although these firearms continue to be maintained and remain operational, many components have reached or are approaching the end of their practical service life. Many upper receiver assemblies currently in service are estimated to be 15 to 20 years old and have experienced substantial operational use, with estimated round counts approaching 20,000 rounds or more. In addition, these systems are increasingly outdated in terms of ergonomics, optics compatibility, and accessory integration when compared to modern patrol rifle platforms.
If awarded, grant funds would be used to replace approximately eight patrol rifle systems, depending upon final equipment selection, procurement costs, and total grant funding available. The replacement project would modernize approximately half of the Department's patrol rifle inventory and improve officer safety, operational readiness, and community safety by providing officers with reliable equipment that enhances target identification, accuracy, and overall response effectiveness during critical incidents.
Should funding remain after the purchase of complete rifle systems and be insufficient to purchase an additional rifle package, remaining funds may be used to purchase compatible optics, weapon-mounted lights, replacement components, or related accessories that enhance the safety, functionality, and operational readiness of patrol rifle systems.
The Mayor will also be required to sign the Memorandum of Understanding with Story County, along with the certifications and assurances required by the grant program indicating the City's agreement to comply with all grant terms and conditions.
- Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Story County to apply for grant funding under the 2026 Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program and authorize application for that grant.
- Do not approve the agreement with the Story County or the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program grant application.
JAG funds have been used productively during the past few years to purchase equipment and provide training. The program has proven to be a valuable source of funds for special purchases and programs. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.