State Homeland Security Grant Program
2011 Grant Update
Due to delays in the Federal budget cycle, the Federal Grant Guidance was not issued until May 19th, 2011. As of August 4th, the State of California has yet to issue the required State Supplemental Guidance and Application Kit to the Operational Areas. Therefore, the grant application process is delayed by at least 3 months for 2011 grants. Also, the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) has been cut by approximately 25% at the Federal level, but California's allocation decreased by approximately 32%; we therefore expect a similar reduction in funds allocated to Tulare County.
About the Homeland Security Grant in Tulare County
Tulare County OES serves as the administrator for the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) for the Tulare Operational Area. This is a Federal grant, passed through the State of California and the Tulare Operational Area, to public safety agencies within the County. The purpose of the grant is to build capabilities to protect against, prevent, respond to, and recover from terrorist acts and other types of emergencies or disasters.
Grant Application & Selection Process
Each year, typically beginning in May, public safety agencies within the Operational Area may submit projects for consideration for SHSGP funding. Project funds are available under the following four categories: Equipment, Planning, Training, or Exercise. Requests must be for authorized equipment or activities, meet State Goals & Objectives, and match one or more Investment Justifications to be eligible. Visit the SHSGP Application Resources page to view application-related materials.
The following month, each agency presents its submitted project(s) before the members of the Approval Authority - a body mandated by grant guidance comprised of the following five voting members:
- County Sheriff, or his/her designee
- County Fire Chief, or his/her designee
- Public Health Officer, or his/her designee responsible for Emergency Medical Services
- Municipal Police Chief (selected by the City Police Chiefs)
- Municipal Fire Chief (selected by the City Fire Chiefs)
The Approval Authority determines how grant funds will be allocated to the submitted projects. As the total amount requested is often several times the amount available, many projects cannot be funded, or may receive only partial funding. While there are no mandated criteria for how projects are selected, the Tulare Operational Area Approval Authority traditionally prioritizes projects which bring substantial benefit to the entire Operational Area, and emphasizes projects which address operational necessities, improve compliance with new / developing State & Federal standards, build new regional capabilities, measurably improve existing capabilities, or create sustainable solutions. Grant funds cannot be used to supplant (replace) local funds for existing activities. Awards are typically made beginning in October, (approximately 6 months after the conclusion of the application process). No expenditures can be made prior to the receipt of an official award package.
Information for Grant Applicants & Recipients
Grant applicants should view the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page for important information regarding their potential award. If you have received an award, you may download forms and other reference information from the SHSGP Grant Management Resources page.
