FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF DECEMBER 5, 2023
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Interim Recreation and Parks Department Director Angela Oslund
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving and Authorizing an Application for the California State Department of Parks and Recreation Outdoor Equity Grants Program Grants Fund
Description:
The City Council will c onsider approving an application for additional grant funding through the California State Department of Parks and Recreation Outdoor Equity Grants Program.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Adopt a Resolution approving and authorizing the submittal of a project application to the California Department of Parks and Recreation Outdoor Equity Program.
BACKGROUND:
The California Department of Parks and Recreation has been delegated by the Legislature of the State of California as the administrator of the Outdoor Equity Program. This grant program awards grants to public organizations, including local governments, with a focus on funding transportation, logistical, program operations , and capacity costs associated with reaching historically underserved communities.
DISCUSSION:
The Recreation and Parks Department is in the process of preparing the grant application which is due December 17, 2023. An authorizing Resolution is a required element of the application package to ensure the jurisdiction is supportive of the application. However, the City may wi thdraw from the application process at any time prior to the expenditure of the funds.
Alternative(s)
The City Council could elect not to apply for this funding. 2 Fiscal Considerations
The Outdoor Equity Program is a reimbursement grant program. Up to 100% of the actual project expenditures, not to exceed the grant amount, will be refunded. The City of Santa Maria is expected to finance the entire project, with options for intermittent payments upon successful submittal of Grant Progress Status Reports to California State Parks Office of Grants and Local Services. The grant request will not exceed $1,000,000.
Impact to the Community
The Outdoor Equity Program grant, made possible through Assembly Bill 209 (Limón), will increase the ability of residents in underserved communities, with an emphasis on students eligible for free or reduced -price meals, foster youth, and students of limited English proficiency, to participate in outdoor experiences at state parks and other public lands.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution