Local Efficiency Achievement Program - Implementation Grant

The Local Efficiency Achievement Program (LEAP) Implementation Grant is administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs through its Division of Local Government Services. The program is part of a broader state initiative to improve the efficiency, cost effectiveness, and service delivery of local government entities across New Jersey. The initiative builds on the Shared Services Program launched in 2018 and the subsequent establishment of the Local Assistance Bureau, both of which aim to encourage collaboration among local governments to reduce duplication and improve public service outcomes. The LEAP Implementation Grant specifically focuses on advancing shared service agreements by supporting the transition from planning to execution. The purpose of the Implementation Grant is to provide financial assistance for the actual implementation of shared service arrangements among local government entities. These arrangements must be authorized under the Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act and are intended to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery. The grant supports projects that involve at least two participating local government entities and require formal agreements with a minimum five year term. Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed project will reduce costs or staff time, improve effectiveness, and overcome barriers associated with initial implementation. Funding is structured as a reimbursement program for eligible one time start up and transition costs associated with implementing shared services. These costs may include new technology acquisition or conversion, equipment purchases, rebranding, professional services such as legal or engineering work, training, and limited transitional personnel expenses. In certain cases, up to 50 percent of the awarded funds may be advanced following execution of the grant and shared services agreement. The maximum award per project is capped at a percentage of total implementation costs, and applicants must clearly identify all qualifying expenses. Ongoing operational costs, general administrative expenses, and certain categories such as travel or lobbying are not eligible for reimbursement. Eligibility is limited to New Jersey local government entities including counties, municipalities, school districts, county colleges, authorities, and fire districts. Applications must be submitted jointly by all participating entities, and one entity must be designated as the lead agency responsible for financial management and reporting. Applicants must be in good standing with all state grant requirements and must provide documentation including governing body resolutions, project narratives, detailed budgets, and work plans. The application process is conducted through the SAGE grants management system, and all required materials must be submitted electronically. Applications are reviewed by the Division of Local Government Services using a structured scoring system that evaluates project need, financial and administrative benefits, feasibility of the work plan, level of participant commitment, and overall innovation. Projects are ranked based on their potential impact, scalability, and ability to generate efficiencies. Decisions are final and not subject to appeal. Successful applicants enter into a grant agreement with the state and must comply with reporting, documentation, and audit requirements throughout the project period. The application process is rolling, with a firm submission deadline of April 15, 2026 for the fiscal year funding cycle. Applications are encouraged to be submitted as early as possible due to limited funding availability. Awards must be encumbered before the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2026. Grant recipients are required to submit periodic progress reports, maintain financial records for audit purposes, and provide a final report documenting outcomes and benefits achieved. The program does not explicitly state a recurring annual cycle, but it is tied to state appropriations and may be offered in future fiscal years depending on funding availability.

Ensure strong demonstration of cost savings and efficiency gains; include detailed and feasible work plans; secure full commitment from all participating entities; prioritize projects with scalability and innovation