FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 16, 2023
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: City Manager
Prepared by: Recreation and Park Director
SUBJECT: Grant Application to the Land and Water Conservation Fund for the Santa Maria Sports Complex
Description:
The City Council will consider approving a grant application for up to $6 million to the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for the Santa Maria Sports Complex.
Environmental Notice: Environmental review for this project was completed through the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report SCH# 2007011082 pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving a grant application to the Land and Water Conservation Fund for the Santa Maria Sports Complex Project.
BACKGROUND:
The intent of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program is to provide grant funds to acquire land and develop facilities for publi c outdoor recreation purposes. The proposed funding request would consist of a grant request of up to $6 million to close the funding gap of previously received grant funds , as well as funding provided by the City and County of Santa Barbara . These funds would be used for the development of the Santa Maria Community Sports Park within a portion of the Blosser Southwest Specific Plan (approximately 19 acres located on the Southwest Corner of West Stowell Road and South Depot Street).
DISCUSSION:
The Recreation and Parks Department is working on the preparation and processing of the grant application, which is due June 1, 2023. An authorizing resolution is a required element of the application package to ensure that the jurisdiction is supportive of the application. The City may withdraw from the application process at any time prior to the expenditure of the funds.
Alternative
Consider a phased approach: If the project exceeds the current funding available, the City could consider breaking it down into phases that can be funded incrementally over time.
2 Fiscal Considerations
The maximum grant request can be no more than $6 million. Matching funds are required for this grant, which the City has already acquired. In addition, leveraging other funding sources can make the project more competitive. The City is expected to finance the entire project and will utilize monies from Proposition 68 Grant funds, County of Santa Barbara Funds, and Park Development Funds. Options for re-payment from the State may occur every six months and/or as major portions of the project are completed.
Impact to the Community
Securing LWCF monies to build the Santa Maria Community Sports Park will improve outdoor recreational opportunities for the community and specifically meet the need for additional field space.