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 f...
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