TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute all documents, and any needed subsequent amendments, with the State of California to accept Workforce Investment Act funds totaling $1,999,146 to operate the Long Beach Youth Demonstration Project for the term of July 1, 2015 through
March 31, 2017; execute a contract with Leadership Long Beach in the amount of $220,000 to provide leadership development; and
Increase appropriations in the Community Development Grants Fund (SR 150) in the Department of Economic and Property Development (HR) by $1,999,146. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
Pacific Gateway administers various youth employment and educational training programs through its Youth Opportunity Center (YOC) and partnerships with selected community organizations. These programs assist youth in acquiring skills leading to educational attainment and/or employment in high demand occupations by local employers.
In June of this year, Pacific Gateway submitted a grant request to the State of California seeking funds to support a youth project that would enroll and serve approximately 350 youth. The project will integrate subsidized employment, leadership development, occupational skills training, and career mentor connection. Additional components of the project include group circle/job club, supportive services, and placement services. Pacific Gateway was recently notified that it was approved for $1,999,146 to administer the project.
In support of this program design, Pacific Gateway collaborated with various City Departments, as well as local employers, to meet program goals and ensure that youth in most need are given access to services provided under this project. Pacific Gateway will contract with Leadership Long Beach, as one of the major partners, to provide leadership development to all 350 participants.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Kendra Carney on October 20, 2015 and by Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on October 16, 2015.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on November 10, 2015, in order to facilitate processing of required documents.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Long Beach Youth Demonstration Project is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). Pacific Gateway will receive up to $1,999,146 in WIA funds for the project, which is not currently budgeted. An appropriation increase of $1,999,146 in the Community Development Grants Fund (SR 150) in the Economic and Property Development Department (EP) is requested as part of the recommended action. No cash or in-kind service match is required. Approval of this recommendation will result in employment preparation, work experience placement, and employment retention services to approximately 350 youth workers.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
MICHAEL P. CONWAY
DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC &
PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER