2026 10 20 Council Meeting Packet

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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX 
 
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A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN APPLICATION FOR AND CONDITIONAL 
ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDING UNDER THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE 
ASSISTANCE (B JA) FY 2026 RURAL VIOLENT CRIME REDUCTION INITIATIVE 
FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN ARMORED VEHICLE FOR THE ATHENS POLICE 
DEPARTMENT. 
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau 
of Justice Assistance, has announced the BJA FY 2026 Rural Violent Crime Reduction Initiative, 
Funding Opportunity Number O-BJA-2026-172761, to support efforts to prevent, respond to, and 
reduce violent crime in rural jurisdictions; and 
WHEREAS, the Athens Police Department proposes to seek funding to acquire an 
armored vehicle to improve officer and public safety during high- risk incidents, including armed 
barricades, active threats, rescue operations, and evacuations, as part of a proposed strategy to 
address local violent crime; and 
WHEREAS, the funding opportunity provides awards of up to $250,000 and does not 
require a local cost-sharing match; and 
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to authorize submission of a grant application for 
this purpose; 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF 
ATHENS, TENNESSEE, AS FOLLOWS: 
SECTION 1. The City Council authorizes the City of Athens, through the Athens Police 
Department, to apply for funding under the BJA FY 2026 Rural Violent Crime Reduction Initiative 
in the amount necessary to fund the proposed armored vehicle project, not to exceed $250,000. 
SECTION 2. The City Mayor, City Manager, or designee as permitted by the grant requirements, 
is authorized to prepare and submit the application and execute the related application documents, 
certifications, and assurances, after confirming eligibility, proposed equipment allowability, and 
applicable certification requirements. The Police Chief and Finance Director are authorized to 
assist with the project narrative, supporting documentation, and proposed budget. 
SECTION 3. If awarded, the City Council authorizes acceptance of grant funding not to exceed 
$250,000 for the proposed armored vehicle project, provided no local match is required and the 
award is consistent with the purpose authorized by this resolution. Execution of the necessary grant 
documents and administration of the grant are authorized in accordance with applicable 
requirements.  
 
ON MOTION BY  
  
SECONDED BY  
  
said Resolution was adopted and approved by roll call vote on the 20th day of October, 2026.  
  
    
    
    
ATTEST:   Larry Eaton, Mayor 
    
    
    
Bridget Roberts, Interim City Manager    
    
APPROVED AS TO FORM:    
    
    
    
Vacant, City Attorney    
 
4
Work Session 
October 12, 2026