HomeMy WebLinkAbout20251356.tiffResolution
Approve 2025 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Application and
Authorize Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Laboratory to Sign and Submit
Electronically
Whereas, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to
Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of
administenng the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and
Whereas, the Board has been presented with a 2025 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science
Improvement Grant Application from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and
through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Sheriff's
Office, to the Colorado Department of Public Safety, Division of Criminal Justice,
commencing October 1, 2026, and ending September 30, 2027, with further terms and
conditions being as stated in said application, and
Whereas, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said application, a copy
of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County,
Colorado, that the 2025 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Application
from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County
Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Sheriff's Office, to the Colorado
Department of Public Safety, Division of Cnminal Justice, be, and hereby is, approved
Be it further resolved by the Board that Daren Ford, Director of the Northern Colorado
Regional Forensic Laboratory, be, and hereby is, authorized to electronically sign and
submit said application
The Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, approved the above
and foregoing Resolution, on motion duly made and seconded, by the following vote on
the 19th day of May, A D , 2025
Perry L Buck, Chair Aye
Scott K James, Pro-Tem Aye
Jason S Maxey Aye
Lynette Peppler Aye
Kevin D Ross Aye
Approved as to Form:
Bruce Barker, County Attorney
Attest:
Esther E Gesick, Clerk to the Board
cc : S O (Tom /17F), A CT(cP/Rw (co)
05 iv -9/25
2025-1356
SO0046
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
PASS -AROUND REVIEW
PASS -AROUND TITLE: 2026-2027 Paul Coverdell Science Improvement Grant Application
DEPARTMENT: Sheriff's Office Crime Lab DATE: 5/5/25
PERSON REQUESTING: Daren Ford, Lab Director
Brief description of the problem/issue: The Regional Crime Lab is eligible to apply for $24,850 in federal
training funds through the Paul Coverdell Formula Grant, which is allocated based on crime rates within our five
partner agencies. This grant, which we have successfully used in previous years, does not require any matching
funds and is a critical resource for maintaining and advancing analyst certifications and expertise.
This year, we are seeking funding to support targeted training in Digital Multimedia, Forensic Biology, and
Latent Print examinations areas identified as high priority based on current lab needs. These trainings will
directly enhance our analytical capabilities and help reduce the existing case backlog. A portion of the grant
application is attached, and the submission deadline is May 19, 2025.
What options exist for the Board?
Consequences: Failure to approve this grant will cause an increase in funding request from the county
and partnered agencies to offset the need for training.
Impacts: The grant funding helps training analysts and maintain their certifications. Ultimately the grant
funding helps expand the knowledge and skills of the analysts and helps in the reduction in the backlog.
Costs (Current Fiscal Year / Ongoing or Subsequent Fiscal Years): There are no additional costs to
the county associated with this grant request.
Recommendation: I recommend approving to apply for the grant.
Perry L. Buck
Scott K. James
Jason S. Maxey
Lynette Peppier
Kevin D. Ross
Support Recommendation Schedule
Place on BOCC Agenda Work Session
g3
Other/Comments:
2025-1356
5A9
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Weld County - Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Lab
Title: Coverdell 2026 - 2027
Coverdell 2025
10/1/2026 to 9/30/2027
SAM Expiration Date: August 1. 2025
County
ID: App # 985
Maximum Amount Available: $24,850.00
Budget Total: $24,850
Application
Please click the "Edit" button in the top right comer of the page to edit your Application.
When you have finished your Application, click the "Submit" button on the bottom right comer.
Instructions - Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Program (COV)
2025 Coverdell Intent to Apply & Announcement of Available Funds
2025 Coverdell Application Instructions
Status
♦ Table of Contents
Application
Organization Information & Project Officials
Intent to Apply
Project Overview
Project Details
- Problem Statement
- Project Plan
- Project Outcomes (Expected Results/Impact)
- Accreditation
- Goals and Objectives
Budget and Budget Narrative
Application / Grant Documents
System Generated Emails
Organization Information & Project Officials
Organization:
Project Director:
Signature Authority:
Financial Officer:
Primary Contact:
Intent to Apply
Weld County - Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Lab
Daren Ford
Perry Buck
Rusty Williams
Daren Ford
Please enter the preliminary amount you plan on requesting below.
Amount Requested: $24,000.00
Enter the areas where you intend to provide services.
The regional lab provides lab services for both Larimer and Weld counties and for the cities of Loveland,
Greeley and Fort Collins.
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I certify that this Intent to Apply is
accurate and can verify that I am
authorized to submit on behalf of my
organization.
Yes
Maximum Amount Available:
S24.850.00
♦ Project Overview
Project Title
Enter a brief descriptive title of the project. Use a short, but meaningful title for your project. (Limit 60
characters - No special characters)
Project Title: Coverdell 2026 - 2027
Project Duration
Awards will be made on a Federal FY basis. for twelve-month periods, specifically being October 1. 2026
through September 30. 2027.
Start Date: 10/1/2026
End Date: 9/30/2027
Project Abstract / Project Summary
The project abstract/summary is an important part of the application. When read separately from the rest
of the appl cation, the abstract should serve as a succinct and accurate description of the proposed work.
Applicants should summarize the proposed project.. including its purpose. primary activities/deliverables.
jurisdiction(s) covered by applicant's forensic services/intended beneficiaries. anticipated outcomes and
impact. and how the project fits within Colorado's priorities for the Coverdell Program (see list under
Problem Statement below).
Once an award has been granted, the abstract is available in a separate electronic format and serves as a
summary available to all interested parties for the duration of the grant. It also becomes part of the grant
award letter and the statement of work in the grant agreement.
Project Abstract / Project Summary:
The Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Lab (NCRFL) is a consortium of 5 law enforcement agencies
that have combined staff, and along with CBI staff housed in Greeley, to provide forensic services to the
Northern Colorado region. primarily to the participating agencies.
The lab in conjunction with the CBI was accredited in May 2015 in chemistry, biology -bodily fluid
identification, firearms and latent prints. In addition, the areas of Bio ogy-DNA Nuclear and Digital &
Multimedia Evidence (DME) were accredited in 2016.
The lab is seeking to train forensic scientists in their area of expertise to continue to improve the quality of
forensic services to the people of Northern Colorado and address the concerns of the National
Commission on Forensic Sciences (NCFS).
Project Details
- Problem Statement
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What problem or issue are you trying to address9 The project must address a problem that fits within
Colorado's pnonties for Coverdell Include a description of the problem n terms of causes and
consequences Provide justification for the need to address the problem and to explain the nature and
extent of the problem through relevant state or local data Provide a descnption of how addressing the
problem will improve forensic science and medical examiner/coroner services specific to one or more of
the following three state pnonties
• Achieving or maintaining accreditation (quality),
• Reducing forensic analysis backlogs (timeliness), and/or
• Targeting the challenges to the forensic science community posed by opioids and synthetic drugs
Problem Statement
The goal of this initiative is to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of forensic analysts at the
Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Laboratory through targeted training and professional development
With the addition of several new staff members, there is a critical need to expand their technical
competencies to improve the overall quality of forensic services and reduce casework backlogs This effort
also supports the implementation of best practices and addresses recommendations outlined in the
National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology
(PCAST) reports
i
To meet current case demands and improve service delivery, the lab has identified the following
specialized training needs
• Digital Examiners Training in media authentication analysis, mobile device forensics, and Apple -based
computer systems
• Firearms Examiner Attendance at the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
conference to stay current with advancements in the discipline
• Latent Pnnt Examiner Participation in a certification preparation course in support of the examiner's goal
to achieve professional certification
• DNAAnalysts Attendance by two DNA scientists at the International Symposium on Human Identification
(ISHI) to remain updated on emerging technologies and methods in forensic DNA analysis
These training opportunities will directly support our laboratory's mission to provide accurate, timely, and
high -quality forensic services
- Project Plan
Describe the purpose of the project and the activities and/or deliverables you are_proposing This
description should provide'a clear understanding of the method(s) used by your project to achieve your
goals, objectives and projected outcomes/impact, and how the activities will address the problem you
identified as well as Colorado's pnonties for the Coverdell Program (see list under Problem Statement
above) Describe how, who, and when you will complete proposed project activities and/or deliverables
If the activities for which funds are being requested are part of a larger project clearly define what
the larger project is and how the activities for which funding is being requested will fit into the larger,
plan, and whether you might request funding in future years to complete the plan
Protect Plan
To achieve the goal of enhancing the expertise and operational efficiency of the Northern Colorado
Regional Forensic Laboratory, this project will provide targeted training to forensic analysts over a 12 -
month period The primary focus is on expanding the capabilities of newly hired and existing staff to
ensure the lab remains aligned with current forensic science standards and the recommendations of the
National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology
(PCAST)
The training plan includes several key activities tailored to the specific disciplines within the lab Digital
forensic examiners will receive instruction in media authentication analysis, mobile device forensics, and
Apple -based system forensics This training will improve their ability to analyze diverse digital evidence
types, expand the lab's service offerings, and reduce dependency on external resources The lab's
firearms examiner will attend the annual Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
conference to stay current with technological advances and best practices in firearms examination For
latent pnnt analysis, one examiner prepanng for professional certification will attend a dedicated
preparation course This training is expected to enhance their readiness for certification and contnbute to
the lab's overall accreditation and quality assurance standards
Additionally, two DNA scientists will attend the International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI), a
premier event for forensic DNA professionals Participation will allow these scientists to remain current with
emerging technologies, evolving methodologies, and legal trends affecting DNA analysis Collectively,
these training activities will directly support improved laboratory performance, increased analyst
competency, and a reduction in the forensic case backlog
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Implementation will follow a structured timeline Training registrations and logistics will be completed in the
first or second quarters The majority; of the digital and forensic science trainings will occur between the
second and third quarters
1
- Project Outcomes (Expected Results/Impact)
Describe outcomes anticipated as result of the project in relation to the purpose of the Coverdell
Program (to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science and medical examiner/coroner
services) and to one or more of Colorado's three pnonties
• Achieving or maintaining accreditation (quality),
• Reducing forensic analysis backlogs (timeliness), and/or
• Targeting the challenges to the forensic science community posed by °ploids and synthetic
drugs
Descnbe how this proposed project will positively impact each of the following
Project Outcomes
We expect that with the knowledge gamed our examiners will be better prepared in the examination and
, analysis processes of the evidence Utilizing the latest techniques ensures that quality is of the highest
I pnonty while also triaging timelines to ensure the backlog does not increase
- Accreditation
Based on the state's priorities, app leant agencies must be fully accredited or applying for funds to assist
them in their pursuit of accreditatiop Descnbe whether the agency applying for funds is accredited or
applying for funds to pursuit of accreditation If accredited list the accrediting body, the scope of the
accreditation and the issuance and expiration dates and upload the certificate of accreditation below
All applicants will upload the certification as to forensic science laboratory system accreditation below
I, Accreditation
The NCRFL is a participant in the CBI's quality system and as such is an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
by ANAB (formerly ASCLD/LAB) in the disciplines of Drug Chemistry, Forensic Biology, Firearms/Too'marks I
Latent Pnnts, Digital & Multimedia Evidence
,
- Generally_ Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures
Descnbe how the applicant agency uses generally accepted laboratory practices and procedures
established by accrediting organizations or appropnate certifying bodies in compliance with the
certification Provide the name of the certifying accreditation organization being used Upload the
certification as to generally accepted laboratory practices and procedures below f
Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures
The NCRFL works with the CBI in providing forensic laboratory services to the region It has placed itself
under the CBI's quality system and therefore operates also under all the CBI Forensic Sciences Services
policies and procedures as set up lathe Colorado Bureau of Investigation The regional lab was assessed
by ASCLD/LAB (national accrediting body) in 2015 under those policies and procedures and was
accredited in all disciplines it made application for chemistry, biology -body fluids, firearms, fingerpnnts and
shoe and bre tracks In 2016 the biology -DNA section and the digital multimedia evidence sections were
assessed and accredited as well Currently every section of the lab is accredited by ANAB The laboratory ,
completed a full assessment by ANAB in 2023
I - Plan for Forensic Science Laboratones
Applicants must submit a certification that as a unit of local government or as a state agency have they
have developed a plan for their forensic science laboratory under a program intended to improve the
quality and timeliness of forensic sicience or medical examiner services provided by the laboratory that
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will receive a portion of the grant amount. Please provide the name of the unit of government that has
developed this plan and the years the plan covers. Upload the certification as to plan for forensic labs
below.
Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories:
The Northern Region Lab Group (NRLG) and CBI signed an MOU in 2013. The NRLG agreed to follow the
CBI's quality system. The MOU does not have an end date so it is expected that the plan will cover all of
2027. (MOU mandates 18 months on dissolution).
- External Investigations
Provide a detailed explanation of the process. including the government entity(ies) in place to conduct
external investigations, for ensuring an independent external investigation would be conducted in the
event that an allegation of serious negligence or misconduct substantially affecting the integrity of
forensic results is committed by employees or contractors. Upload the certification as to external
investigations below.
External Investigations:
If an allegation of serious negligence or misconduct were brought to the attention of the lab director, the
lab director would do the following:
1. The CBI quality system has in place a system to review instances that may affect the quality of the
laboratory system. It is defined in the quality manual of the CBI laboratory systems. Anyone in the system
can report on an instance of quality concern in the form of an incident review (IR).
2. All IR's are eventually provided to the lab director for review before being given to the quality manager.
Many of these IR's are resolved at the level of the technical leader or a lab manager. All others continue
through the review process and in some instances the lab director decides on corrective actions that may
need to be taken. That recommendation is then reviewed by the quality manager.
3. If on review the lab director determines that the IR indicates an allegation of serious negligence or
misconduct then, in addition, to the paper trail of the IR a call to the quality manager would occur.
4. The lab director would contact the quality manager of the CBI to determine the level of concern.
5. If it was of serious nature and required an independent investigation then the lab director would contact
the Weld County Sheriffs Office, Internal Affair's Unit (WCSO IA unit) to make them aware of the allegation
and request their services to provide an independent review of the allegation.
6. Due to the unique nature of the regional lab (6 agencies providing staff in the lab) the agency whose
employee was involved in the alleged action would be notified. They would be apprised of the situation
and informed that an independent review would be done.
7. The lab director would review the results of the independent review and in concert with the CBI quality
manager create a plan to follow through with the recommendation of the WCSO IA unit.
- Goals and Objectives
Your goal should be a broad statement about what the project expects to achieve - logically linked to the
problem identified and proposed activities. Identify the Goals. Objectives and Activities that will be
completed utilizing the requested grant funds. Include the corresponding Coverdell Performance
Measures (below) on which you are required to report
MANDATORY DATA TO BE COLLECTED:
1. As of the first day of the grant period, the average number of days between submission of
evidence to a forensic lab or medical examiner's/coroner's office and delivery of test results to a
requesting office or agency.
2. As of the last day of this reporting period, the average number of days between submission of
evidence to a forensic lab or medical examiner's/coroner's office and delivery of test results to a
requesting office or agency.
3. For the grant period to date, what is the total number of forensic personnel in your forensic lab
using funding from this grant to seek certification?
4. As of the last day of this reporting period, what is the total number of forensic personnel in
your forensic lab that are receiving funding from this grant?
5. As of the last day of this reporting period, what is the total number of currently certified forensic
personnel in your forensic lab that are receiving funding from this grant?
6. As of the last day of this reporting period, how many forensic personnel initiated certification
using funding from this grant?
7. As of the last day of this reporting period, how many forensic personnel completed certification
using funding from this grant?
8. As of the last day of this reporting period, what is the total number of medicolegal death
investigators in your forensic lab that are receiving funding from this grant?
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9 As of the last day of this ieporting penod, what is the total number of currently certified
medicolegal death investigators in your forensic lab that are receiving funding from this grant?
10 For the grant penod to date, what is the total number of medicolegal death investigators in
your forensic lab using funding from this grant to seek certification?
11 As of the last day of this reporting penod, how many medicolegal death investigators initiated
certification using funding from this grant?
12 As of the last day of this reporting penod, how many medicolegal death investigators
completed certification using funding from this grant?
13 As of the last day of the reporting penod, did you implement new technology or equipment
using Coverdell funding?
14 If Yes, describe any success stones related to the new technology/equipment
15 If Yes, describe any challenges related to implementing the new technology/equipment
16 As of the first day of this grant period, what is the total number of backlogged cases?
17 As of the last day of this reporting penod, what is the total number of backlogged cases?
18 Dunng this reporting penod, what is the number of backlogged cases analyzed with Coverdell
funds?
19 As of the last day of the reporting penod, how many forensic personnel attended training?
20 As of the last day of the reporting period, how many hours of training were completed in
total?
21 What training topics were covered?
1 Accreditation
2 Anthropology
3 Computer forensics
4 Cnme scene
5 Digital forensics
6 DNA
7 Firearms
8 General forensics
9 Latent pnnts
10 Medical examiner/Medical death investigator
11 Pathology
12 Seized drugs
13 Toxicology
14 Trace evidence
22 Dunng the reporting period, were there any processes related to forensic personnel
implemented or revised? If yes, describe
23 As of the last day of the reporting penod, how many medical examiners/coroners attended
training?
24 As of the last day of the e reporting penod, how many hours of training were completed in
total?
25 As of the last day of the reporting penod, how many forensic pathologists attended training?
26 As of the last day of the reporting penod, how many hours of training were completed in
total?
27 Dunng the reporting period, were there any processes related to medical examiners/coroners
and/or forensic pathologists implemented or revised?
28 Dunng the reporting period, how many forensic personnel were hired with grant funds?
29 Dunng the reporting pe�iod, how many medical examiners/coroners were hired with grant
funds?
30 Dunng the reporting period, how many forensic pathologists were hired with grant funds?
31 Is your agency/organization currently accredited?
32 Is your agency/organization applying for initial accreditation with Coverdell funding?
33 Which agency are you using for accreditation?
1 ANSI-ASO National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
- 2 National Association of Medical Examiner (NAME)
3 International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME)
4 Amencan Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA)
5 Other, list
34 Has your agency applied for accreditation with an appropriate accrediting agency during the
reporting penod?
35 Was accreditation obtained from an appropnate accrediting agency using Coverdell funding
dunng the reporting penod? If Yes, upload accreditation documentation from the accrediting`
agency in the next applicable report
36 Is your agency using Coverdell funding for fees to maintain accreditation?
37 Amount of funding used to conduct Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG)/Forensic Genetic
Genealogical DNAAnalysis and Searching (FGGS) since the beginning of the grant penod
38 Since the beginning of the grant period, how many new forensic samples were subjected to
FGG?
39 Since the beginning of the grant period, how many new reference samples were subjected to
FGG?
40 Since the beginning of the grant period, how many investigations began utilizing grant funds
for FGG/FGGS?
41 Since the beginning of the grant penod, how many cases resulted in searchable profiles
obtained from FGG? -
42 Since the beginning of the grant penod, how many investigations resulted in a new arrest that
relied, in part, on the use of FGG/FGGS?
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Number of Goals
Please select the number of goals associated with your project.
Note that you must add at least one (1) Objective for each Goal listed.
The dropdown menu will show up to 7 goals, but you may not select more than 3 for the Paul Coverdell
Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program.
GOAL 1
Goal 1
To strengthen the scientific capacity and operational effectiveness of the Northern Colorado Regional
Forensic Laboratory through targeted training that enhances examiner expertise, supports professional
certification, and aligns laboratory practices with national forensic science standards.
Objective 1.1
Objective:
To provide specialized training to forensic analysts that enhances their technical competencies,
supports certification and professional development. and improves the overall quality. efficiency, and
credibility of forensic services provided by the laboratory.
Outcome/Activities:
1. Enroll and support staff in specialized forensic trainings, including:
o Digital forensics (media authentication, mobile device analysis, Apple systems)
o Firearm examination (AFTE conference)
o Latent print analysis (certification preparation course)
o DNA analysis (attendance at ISHI conference)
2. Facilitate participation in professional conferences and workshops to ensure exposure to emerging
technologies, legal trends, and peer -reviewed best practices.
3. Support certification efforts for applicable disciplines by providing access to preparatory resources
and time for exam readiness.
4. Implement post -training knowledge -sharing sessions within the lab to multiply the impact of training
across staff members.
Measurement/Performance Measures for Objective
To measure progress toward the objective of enhancing forensic analyst competencies and improving
laboratory performance, several performance measures will be used throughout the project. These
include tracking the completion rate of all scheduled trainings, with a target of 100`)/0 participation by
identified staff. Progress toward professional certification will be monitored. aiming for all relevant staff
to complete preparation and register for exams. The application of newly acquired skills to casework
will also be measured. with an expected increase in internal capacity. particularly in areas like digital
forensics. Additionally. each training participant will be expected to conduct at least one internal
knowledge -sharing session to ensure broader benefit across the lab.
Timeframe: October 2026 - September 2027
♦ Budget and Budget Narrative
OVERALL BUDGET INSTRUCTIONS
i hese funds cannot be used to supplant (replace) dollars that would, in the absence of these federal
funds. be made available for the proposed project: however. they may enhance or expand an existing
program funded from other sources. If the request is to sustain a program that has lost previous
funding through no fault of its oven. the loss must be clearly documented.
Budget items should be detailed, reasonable, specifically defined, justified and the applicant
should demonstrate how the costs were determined. It should be clear so that no concerns of
supplanting will exist. Budget must be completed entirely and each item listed should be accompanied
by a description. which provides justification for the budget items and details the basis for determining
the cost of each item. Please refer to the Announcement of Availability of Funds for details about
allowable and unallowable costs using Coverdell grant funds.
• The budget must cover the entire project duration.
• In -iguring the budget, work with WHOLE DOLLAR AMOUNTS ONLY. When necessary. round
to the next highest whole dollar amount.
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• The budget is broken into seven Budget Categories: Personnel, Supplies and Operating,
Travel, Equipment, Consultants/Contracts, and Indirect Costs.
Budget Narrative and Justification
The applicant must provide a justification and explanation of the budget items listed in each Budget
Category. Failure to justify and explain/show calculations could result in denial of funding.
Describe the criteria used to compute budget figures. All budget figures should be justified and
explained. The budget narrative should show the relationship between budget figures and proposed
project operations. For example, if this is a training project. explanation of the consultants/contracts
budget category amount should include an explanation of the need for consultants/contractors to
provide the training and the hourly cost of the services to be provided.
OAJJA recognizes that governments are constantly faced with the challenges of limited resources. It is
important that you describe how maximizing resources will be accomplished and that this project is not
duplicating services.
PERSONNEL
Personnel
This budget category should be used when employees are positions within the applicant agency and/or
the implementing agency is a division (under the same unit of government) of the applicant agency.
The Personnel Budget should consider overtime, time needed to acquire new staff, and changing
demands for personnel during the course of the project.
Questions regarding the difference between a contract employee and a regular employee may be
directed to the Internal Revenue Service. Contract employees or independent contractors should be
shown under Consultants/Contracts
Budget Narrative and Justification
Explain how the salary and fringe benefit rates for this position were determined. An explanation and
justification are required if the budget is not for an entry-level position. If the salary is expected to
increase during the project year. indicate the percentage of the increase, the months covered by the
increase. and justify it. Be sure that scheduled salary increase has been included in the Salary row,
and that the proposed salary is one that is paid for equivalent positions and employee qualifications in
your area. Include a brief description of the project roles and responsibilities for this position.
SUPPLIES & OPERATING
Supplies & Operating
Add expendable or non -durable items within this category by major type [e.g.. office supplies. software
(regardless of cost), training materials. research forms, telephone. tuition, postage, each item must
be named "etc." is not an allowed cost.] and show the basis for computation: "X" dollars per month for
office supplies, "Y" dollars per person for training tuition, telephone -base charge plus long distance at
`2" dollars per month.
• Includes lab supplies, tuition, registration, software , etc.
• Out-of-state training costs must be justified in terms of availability of comparable training in
state and must be clearly related to the purpose of the Coverdell Grant Program.
• Large items should be listed and justified (e.g.. unusual supply items. software, special
printing. etc.
NOTE: Tuition and registration fees (even if they include lodging and/or subsistence). vehicle gas.
leases, and maintenance on project- or government -owned vehicles are operating expenses not travel.
These types of costs must be shown in the Supplies and Operating category.
Items with a unit cost less than $10.000 are considered supplies and should be listed in this category.
Items costing $10.000 or more should be listed under Equipment (see below). If software is being
purchased. regardless of the price, it belongs in the Supplies and Operating category. If custom
development of software is contracted out. it is subject to prior approval by OAJJA and should be
shown it the Consultants / Contracts budget category. All purchases should be made through
competitive bid, state or local award, or established purchasing procedures.
Budget Narrative and Justification
Explain how the cost of each item was determined and justify the need for the item.
Item Name
Amount to
be Charged
Budget Narrative
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Advanced Mobile Device
Forensics (AMDF)
to the
Gran
$2,964.00
RS&A IAI Latent Print
Certification Test
Preparation Training
DV150 Media
Authentication and
Analysis with Magnet
Verify Training
AFTE Annual Training
Seminar & Workshops
$715.00
Tuition for one digital media analyst to attend AMDF training
provided by the International Association of Computer
Information Scientists. 1 x 2964
Tuition for one latent print examiner to attend RS&A IAI Latent
Print Certification Test Preparation Training. 1 x 715
$2,632.00 Tuition for two digital media analysts to attend DV150 Media
Authentication and Analysis with Magnet Verify virtual training. 2
x 1316
$1,215.00 Tuition for one firearms analyst to attend the Association of
Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) Annual Training
Seminar and workshops. Cost of registration =$715. Workshops
250 x 2 =$500 (average workshop estimated cost 250 each)
Total = $1215
ISHE Conference &
Workshops
Sumuri Basic Training -
Virtual
TRAVEL
$3,430.00
Tuition for two DNA analysts to attend International Symposium
on Human Identification (ISHI) Conference and workshops.
Registration = 1315 x 2 =$2630. Workshop 400 x 2=800
(average estimated cost per workshop =400) Total = $3430
$3,518.00
Tuition for one digital analyst to attend a Sumuri Basic training
Course Online. 1 x 3518
Travel
Add travel expenses for project personnel by purpose (e.g., to attend training sessions, attend
conferences, etc.) and show a basis for computation. Show airfare.. ground transportation, automobile,
lodging and meals and incidentals per diem individually.
• Indicate if the travel is in state or out-of-state and, if known. the location.
• Opt -of -state travel must be justified and tied to the project goals and objectives.
• Coverdell funds can only be used to cover the cost for certain lab personnel to attend training
sessions, conferences. etc.. so please list the titles of the project personnel you plan to have
attend training sessions, conferences, etc.
Where a jurisdiction has an established travel policy, those rates may be used. Otherwise, Federal
GSA travel rates are the maximum allowed. Allowable Federal GSA travel rates are:
1 Mileage: $.67 cents per mile for use of a personal automobile.
2. Lodging: In -state is the actual cost of reasonable accommodations. However, lodging costs
in excess of the statewide standard rate of $110.00/night must have prior approval of the
Project Director. Federal GSA rates should be used for out-of-state lodging costs.
3. Meals & Incidentals (M&IE - per day): In -state and Out-of-state M&IE costs should be
Federal GSA rates. Reimbursement for the first and last day of travel and equals 75°/0 of total
M&IE.
NOTE: Tuition and registration fees (even if they include lodging and/or subsistence), vehicle gas.
leases, and maintenance on project- or government -owned vehicles are operating expenses travel.
These types of costs must be shown in the Supplies and Operating category.
Budget Narrative and Justification
Explain the relationship of each cost item to the project, (e.g., if training or conference travel expenses
are requested, explain the topic of the conference and its relationship to the project. you must explain
why this training cannot be achieved in state). Out-of-state travel is discouraged and needs to be
thoroughly justified.
Item Name ( Amount Budget Narrative
Advanced Mobile Device $2,037.00 T Travel for one digital media analyst to Orlando. FL — Flight:
Forensics (AMDF) $700; Hotel: 5 days @ 140=$700, Per Diem: GSA rate $80 x 3 +
travel days 2 x 60 = $360; Transportation, Mileage, Lyft/Uber:
$127; Parking/Baggage: $150
RS&A IAI Latent Print
Certification Test
Preparation Training
$2,037.00
Travel for one latent print analyst Location, TBD — Flight: $700;
Hotel: 5 days @140 = $700, Per Diem: GSA rate $80 x 3 +
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AFTE Annual Training
Seminar & Workshops
ISHE Conference &
Workshop
EQUIPMENT
Print View I Colorado DCJ Grants I Grant Request 123074639
travel days 2 x 60 = $360. Transportation, Mileage, Lyft/Uber:
$127; Parking/Baggage: $150
$1.982.00
$4,320.00-1
Travel for one firearms analyst to Plano, TX - Flight: $650;
Hotel: 5 days @123 = $615, Per Diem: GSA rate $80 x 4 +
travel days 2 x 60 = $440; Transportation, Mileage, Lyft/Uber:
$127; Parking/Baggage: $150
Travel for two DNA analysts to San Diego, CA - Flight: $700;
Hotel: 4 days @199 = $796, Per Diem: GSA rate $86 x 3 +
travel days 2 x 64.50 = $387; Transportation, Mileage. Lyft/Uber:
$127; Parking/Baggage: $150 for two employees = 4320
Equipment
Add each item separately. by unit cost. This category should include all items with a unit cost of
$10,000 or more and useful life of more than one year. Items not meeting these criteria should be
included in the Supplies and Operating category. Equipment must be justified as necessary and not
available currently.
If the proposed equipment is to be shared with entities outside this project, the cost should be prorated
based upon the percentage of use of the equipment by this project.
DCJ must provide prior written approval for the actual purchase of all equipment, separate from
approval to fund the project. All equipment must be purchased through competitive bid. state or local
award. or established purchasing procedures.
Budget Narrative and Justification
Explain how the cost of each item was determined. Explain why the proposed equipment is essential to
conducting the project and is not currently available for use within your agency or organization.
CONSULTANTS / CONTRACTS
Consultants / Contracts
Application must contain a detailed budget and budget narrative for anything listed under
Consultants / Contracts. List each consultant. contractor, or type of service with the proposed fee (by
eight -hour day or hourly rate). If the applicant agency is contracting with an outside agency to conduct
the day-to-day operations of the project, the total cost should be in Consultant/Contracts .
Rates (honoraria are not an allowable expense) for individual professional services must be based on
an hourly rate (including preparation and travel time). and must have explicit. separate prior approval
from DCJ. Rates for individual consultants cannot exceed $650 per day or $81.25 per hour.
Justification is required to establish a "usual" or "going rate" for similar services. Some consultants
provide services at a flat rate rather than an hourly rate. If that is the case, identify the service to be
provided. including all covered expenses such as travel; and the rate for each "unit" of service. One
example is polygraph exams that cost the same no matter where the polygrapher must travel to
perform :he exam. There are other federal regulations that pertain to some professional
servicesiconsultant rates. Contact DCJ if you have questions.
Professional services should be procured competitively. Sole source contracts must be justified and
must have specific prior written approval from DCJ before execution of any contract, separate from
approval to fund the project. Sole source contracts of $250,000 or over require federal pre -
approval. Refer to the Administrative Guide for Federal Justice Grant Programs or contact DCJ for
additional guidance. Consultants must be able to sign the Certification of Debarment. OJP Form 406
1/1 (see section J of the Certified Assurances for details).
Budget Narrative and Justification
Explain why proposed consultant services cannot or should not be provided by project staff. Explain
how the hourly rate or flat rate was determined. For each consulting organization added, indicate the
number of people to be assigned to the project. number of hours per person per day to be spent on the
project, and a breakdown of the contract price by major cost item (i.e.. supplies. rent. equipment. travel,
contracted services).
INDIRECT COSTS
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Indirect costs are costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost
objective. and not readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefitted, without effort
disproportionate to the results achieved. Examples of costs usually treated as indirect include those
incurred fcr facility operation and maintenance, depreciation, and administrative salaries.
Indirect cost must be applied uniformly across all grants.
Federally Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICR)
If a grantee has an approved, ron-expired, federal indirect cost rate or allocation plan, then DCJ must
accept the rate.
• A grantee may request less than the approved rate at the grantee's discretion.
• A grantee may not request an alternate indirect rate (i.e. De Minimis rate or DCJ negotiated rate).
De Minimis Indirect Cost Rate
If a grantee never had a Federally Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICR) or the current NICR is expired.
the grantee may request the De Minimis.
• A grantee may request less than 15% of the Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC).
• Costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, and may not be double
charged or inconsistently charged as both.
Modified Total Direct Cost, or MTDC?
• This base includes all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and
supp ies, services, travel, and up to the first $50,000 of each subaward (regardless of the period
of performance of the subaward).
• MTDC excludes equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition
remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support costs, and the portion of each
subaward in excess of $53,000.
• Other items may be excluded when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of
indirect costs as determined by DCJ. Example: up to the first $50,000 of procurement contracts.
Non -Federal Negotiated Indirect Costs Rate
An indirect cost rate negotiated between another agency and the grantee. These rates may be based
on a prior negotiated rate between a different entity and the grantee.
Overall Budget Summary
If a line item is entered, and then the budget category is changed to "No", the values will still calculate
in the budget. Please be sure that you remove line items that were created in error.
After entering budget items, click 'Save' to view updated totals in the table above.
Overall Budget Summary
Funding Request
Personnel
Supplies
and Operating
$14,474.00
Travel
$10,376.00
Equipment
Consultants
/ Contracts
Indirect
Costs
Totals
$24,850.00
Maximum Amount Available: $24.850.00
Difference between Maximum Amount Available and Amount Requested:
PROGRAM INCOME
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5/5/25, 9:46 AM Print View I Colorado DCJ Grants I Grant Request 123074639
Program Income Instructions: Gross Income received by the Grantee as a direct result of grant
activity. Examples of program income are service fees. restitution paid, client fees, usage or rental fee.
sales of materials, and income received from the sale of forfeited assets or from forfeited money.
Interest earned is not project income. Program income may be used only for allowable project
expenses. Also known as Project Income.
Narrative Instructions: In this section explain the estimated program income earned and demonstrate
how the cost was determined and show the basis for the calculation if not already provided.
Will this project earn Program No
Income?
• Application / Grant Documents
All required documents must be submitted.
Note: Additional documents must also be complete for your Organization at the time of award. This may
include recent audit, financial management questionnaire, indirect cost rate, and proof of insurance.
Click the (+) button to the right of each Document Type to upload it to your application.
Once successfully uploaded, close the pop-up box to continue.
Required for Currently Accredited Forensic Laboratories
Upload a copy of your certificate of accreditation.
Required for Non -State Agencies
Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories
Download template: Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories (Local Government) complete and upload
by clicking on the plus button.
Required for All Agencies
Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures
Download template: Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures complete and upload
by clicking on the plus button.
External Investigations
Download template: External Investigations. complete and upload by clicking on the plus button.
Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation
Download template: Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation complete and upload by
clicking on the plus button.
BJA Potential Environmental Impact Coversheet and Checklist - National Environmental
Policy Act
Download template: BJA Grant Program NEPA Coversheet and Checklist complete and upload by
clicking on the plus button.
APPLICATION / GRANT DOCUMENTS
NCRFL Laboratory Accreditation Cert.pdf
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5/5/25, 9:46 AM Print View I Colorado DCJ Grants I Grant Request 123074639
- Laboratory Accreditation Certificate
Added by Daren Ford at 9:44 AM on May 5, 2025
BJA Grant Program NEFA Coversheet and Checklist.pdf
- BJA Potential Environmental Impact Coversheet and Checklist - National
Environmental Policy Act
Added by Caren Ford at 9:38 AM on May 5. 2025
Cer1_Forensic Science Lab System Accreditation.pdf
- Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation
Added by Melissa Warm at 9:22 AM on May 5, 2025
Cert_Genreally Acceptec Lab Practices and Procedures.pdf
- Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures
Added by Melissa Warm at 9:21 AM on May 5, 2025
Cert_Extemal Investigati Dns.pdf
- External Investigations
Added by Melissa Warm at 9:21 AM on May 5, 2025
Certification Statement
1. I certify that I am authorized to submit this application on behalf of the agency.
2. I certify all information contained in the application is accurate.
3. I acknowledge that any resulting contract and grant award will include significant state requirements that will
have to be adhered to during the grant period.
Certification:
♦ Organizational Documents - attached to your Organzation and visible on every application.
Organization documents are attached to your Organization and are visible on all grants.
ORGANIZATION DOCUMENTS
WeldCounty.pdf
System of Award Management (SAM)
Added by Megan Steiben at 3:15 PM on March 17, 2025
System Generated Emails
SYSTEM GENERATED EMAILS
Application Available - Coverdell
Sent to "Daren Ford" <dford@weld.gov>,"Rusty Williams" <rilliams@weld.gov>,"Amy Miller"
<amy.l.miller@state.co.us>,"Kinsey Garrett" <kinsey.garrett@state.co.us> at 10:51 AM on April 21, 2025
Intent to Apply Received - COV
Sent to "Daren Ford" <dford@weld.gov>,"Rusty Williams" <rilliams@weld.gov> at 9:57 AM on April 14,
2025
https://dcigrants.fluxx.io/grant_requests/23074639?prirtable=1 13/14
Houstan Ara on
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Daren Ford
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:55 PM
Houstan Aragon
Melissa Warm
FW: Paul Coverdell Application Received- #985
Sorry Houstan, this is t e email I should have sent you.
df
Daren Ford, Lab Direct • r
Northern Colorado Re: ional Forensic Laboratory
2329 115th Avenue, G eeley, CO 80634
(P) 970-400-3638
From: Colorado DCJ Gra is <do-not-reply.grants07-us-east-1@fluxx.io>
Sent: Monday, May 19, 2025 9:51 AM
To: Daren Ford <dford@weld.gov>; Rusty Williams <rwilliams@weld.gov>; Amy Miller <amy.l.miller@state.co.us>;
Kinsey Garrett <kinsey.garrett@state.co.us>
Subject: Paul Coverdell Application Received- #985
This Message Is From an External Sender
This email was sent by someone outside Weld County Govemment. Do not click links or open attachments unless_ you recognize
the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Daren:
Application Id: 985
Organization: Weld County - Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Lab
Thank you for submitt ng your 2025 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program (COV)
Application.
If you have any questi
Thank you,
DCJ Coverdell Grant f
ns, please contact us at Amy.L.Miller@state.co.us.
rogram Team
Hello