TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution to authorize an application to the State of California for a tree grant under the "Watershed, Wildlife and Park Improvement Bond Act of 2000," in the amount of $30,000. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The City of Long Beach Community Development Department, Neighborhood Services Bureau , administers an Urban Forestry Program to plant new street trees in City parkways. The program is a successful partnership between the City, the State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection , and neighborhood residents. Since 1990, Neighborhood Services has successfully competed for funding under the State s Urban Forestry Program , bringing over $200 000 into the City for new street trees. The program focuses on increasing the City s urban forest and working with the community. The program s success is primarily due to the active participation of neighborhood residents. Typically, residents are involved in all aspects of the program. They help identify the need for trees in selected neighborhoods , plan the tree planting
events, and plant trees. In the past ten years over 10 000 new trees have been planted in City parkways , all with volunteer participation.
The State of California is providing another funding opportunity under the "Watershed" Wildlife and Park Improvement Bond Act of 2000" grant program. Neighborhood Services intends to build on its successful model and apply for new funding to plant approximately 500 trees. As the City s Urban Forestry Program is supported by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, planting projects are targeted primarily in low/moderate income neighborhoods. If awarded funding, it is anticipated the planting project will begin in Spring 2006.
Adoption of the attached Resolution wil authorize the City Manager to submit an application , execute all necessary documents , assume responsibility for maintaining the trees, and certify that the City has the capacity and required matching funds to implement the project.
This letter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Donna F. Gwin on March 30, 2005 and Budget Management Officer David Wodynski on April 6 , 2005.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on April 19 , 2005 , as the City must submit a grant application to the State by May 2 , 2005. The requested Resolution is a required element of the application.
FISCAL IMPACT
If the grant application is successful , the City will receive $30,000 for the purchase of new street trees , with a 25 percent matching requirement. An appropriation increase will be requested upon receipt of the grant award. Sufficient CDBG funds are currently budgeted in the Community Development Grants Fund (SR 150) in the Department of Community Development (CD) to support the Urban Forestry program and any new planting projects.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
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Respectfully Submitted,
MELANIE S. FALLON
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT