SUBJECT:
Action regarding a Memo of Understanding between Participating Local Governments (City of Saginaw) and the City of Fort Worth in the Fort Worth Intelligence Exchange (INTEX)
The mission of the Fort Worth INTEX is to provide a centralized, comprehensive, multiagency criminal information and intelligence sharing network to enhance the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the law enforcement in the region in order to better serve and protect the public.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Since the events of September 11, 2001, law enforcement has been on a mission to enhance information and intelligence sharing locally, regionally, and nationally. One of the most effective means to achieve that has been through major cities and urban area "Fusion Centers". The City of Dallas, Collin County, and several other Texas locations already have established centers.
Fort Worth has now created INTEX, which will combine information from local agencies in the western North Texas region and link to multiple other parties nationally. The effectiveness of these networks depends largely on the participation of local city and county LE agencies. This MOU would formalize that partnership. Lt. Brandon Badovinac has been appointed as "Fusion Liaison Officer" and will be the point of contact for the City of Saginaw.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is minimal financial impact to the City of Saginaw. Information sharing will occur through existing interfaces and no maintenance fees are currently required. Any personnel time required will be absorbed by the existing budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.