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Rep. Cuellar Announces $328,000 in Federal Funding to Support Border Security in Zapata County

Funds will be used for hiring more officers, paying overtime, and acquiring new equipment

Zapata, TX— Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $328,000 in federal funds for Zapata County’s law enforcement to support joint missions in securing the United States’ border. Specifically, the Operation Stone Garden Grant Program will be used for paying over-time pay, hiring more officers, and acquiring new equipment and radio communication technology. This grant will impact over 14,000 residents of Zapata County.

“Border security in Texas requires a variety of strategies and resources,” said Congressman Cuellar. “These funds will provide much-needed support for our law enforcement who are working tirelessly to keep our border communities safe. Since 2009, I have secured over $8.2 million in Operation Stone Garden funds for Zapata County. As Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to ensure the men and women of law enforcement have the necessary funding to keep our South Texas communities safe and secure. I want to thank Zapata County Sheriff Alonso Lopez, as well as all local, state, and federal officers for their commitment to helping to secure our southern border.”

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Stonegarden Grant Program provides funding to increase operational capabilities of federal state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. As the Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, the Congressman helped secure $90 million nationwide for OPSG, a $5 million increase from FY18. Texas received $33 million in FY19 Operation Stonegarden Grant Program, with Texas’ 28th District receiving $11.5 million, 35% of that share.  

To read the DHS’ Operation Stonegarden Grant Program Announcement, click here.

To read more about Operation Stonegarden, click here.