TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager, or designee, to submit a grant application to the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, for the Willow Springs Park Wetlands Expansion and Improvement Project; accept said grant, if awarded, in an amount of $4,000,000 in Proposition 68 funding; and, execute all documents necessary to accept the funds. (District 7)
DISCUSSION
In June 2018, California voters passed the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All, known as Proposition 68 (Prop 68). This authorized $4 billion in general obligation bonds to finance programs addressing drought, water, parks, climate, coastal protection, and outdoor access for all programs. This has led to various appropriations to multiple agencies to offer Prop 68 funding. The Legislature appropriated $28 million to the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles River and Mountains Conservancy (RMC) for projects that meet the RMC’s multi-benefit project priorities.
The Willow Springs Park Wetlands Expansion and Improvement Project (Project) meets the RMC’s guidelines for Prop 68 funding. Grant applications for Round 1 of RMC Prop 68 funding may be submitted through June 28, 2019. City Council approval is requested to apply for $4,000,000 in RMC Prop 68 grant funds for the Project. If awarded, the funds will be used to construct an expansion of existing seasonal wetlands, improve and expand recreational trails, plant drought-tolerant native plants and irrigation, and install wayfinding and interpretive signage throughout the park’s remaining undeveloped acres. If awarded, the grant will help improve access to open space and low impact recreation for all communities while promoting healthy lifestyles.
This matter was reviewed by Arthur D. Sanchez on May 30, 2019 and by Revenue Management Officer Geraldine Alejo on May 31, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on June 18, 2019, to ensure the grant application is submitted by the grant deadline on June 28, 2019. A Resolution authorizing submittal of the application is required in the application package.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total Project costs are estimated at $4,000,000, which includes design, construction, construction management, inspection, labor compliance, and project oversight. If the grant application is successful, grant funds of up to $4,000,000 will be received for the Project. If awarded, an appropriation increase will be requested for the grant funds prior to Project initiation. The grant does not require matching funds or in-kind services. However, priority is given to projects that include a commitment for a matching contribution. The matching contribution may include planning, operations and maintenance, volunteer support, and ongoing monitoring and assessment of related projects, as well as costs incurred prior to the grant award. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
[Enter Body Here]
Respectfully Submitted,
GERARDO MOUET
DIRECTOR OF PARKS, RECREATION AND MARINE
CRAIG BECK
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER