Item Description:
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JPA A2613364 between Hennepin County and the Cities of Edina, Minnetonka, and St. Louis Park for the Auto Theft Collaboration Cooperative Agreement, period 01/01/26-12/31/28
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Powers Agreement A2613364 between Hennepin County and the Cities of Edina, Minnetonka, and St. Louis Park for the Auto Theft Collaboration Cooperative Agreement, period of January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028 be approved; that the Chair be authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of the County; and that the Controller be authorized to disburse funds as directed.
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Background:
Minnesota Statute § 471.59 authorizes governmental units to enter into joint powers agreements for the cooperative exercise of their powers. Pursuant to this authority, the Auto Theft Collaboration Cooperative Agreement (“Collaboration”) seeks to establish an agreement between Hennepin County and the Cities of Edina, Minnetonka, and St. Louis Park.
The Collaboration establishes a multi-jurisdiction framework for investigating automobile thefts, vehicle tampering offenses, and other vehicle-related crimes within Hennepin County. The cooperative agreement outlines responsibilities, operational protocols, and resource commitments from each participating agency, with organizational oversight provided by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
The Collaboration’s mission is to respond in real time to active vehicle theft incidents-by employing a proactive, intelligence-driven approach; utilizing analysts and analytical data to identify and focus on specific suspects actively engaged in these offenses. Each participating governmental agency will commit licensed peace officers, equipment, and necessary resources to support auto theft investigations and will adhere to all operational protocols and standards adopted by the Collaboration.
The Collaboration will utilize grant funding awarded by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Auto Theft Prevention Program in the amount of $631,000 for the period July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2027, allocated as follows:
• $301,000 for Fiscal Year 2026
• $296,000 for Fiscal Year 2027
Grant funds will support specialized training, overtime compensation, and operational expenses essential to the Collaboration’s mission. Member agencies will bear all costs associated with salaries, equipment, and resources for their assigned officers. Equipment purchased with Grant funds for the exclusive use of the Collaboration shall remain the property of the HCSO.
This collaborative framework enhances the capacity of regional law enforcement to effectively combat auto theft, leveraging shared resources, data-driven tactics, and coordinated leadership to protect the public and expedite criminal justice outcomes.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval