Placement: Consent Agenda
Action Requested: Motion / Vote
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Accept the Florida Urban and Community Forestry-Planting, Preservation and Invasive Control Grant for $50,000 and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Agreement
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Submitted By: Marissa Da Breo-Latchman, Environmental Planner II
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal to Enjoy Culture, Nature and Recreation.
Summary Brief (Agreements/Contracts only)
1. Prepared by: Marissa Da Breo-Latchman
2. Parties: City of Port St. Lucie and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
3. Purpose: The grant will be used to remove invasives and replant native species from approximately 4.3 acres of the 95-acre Commerce Centre North preservation parcel in an effort to prepare the site for public access. The planted native species will contribute to the retention and expansion of tree canopy, improved wildlife habitat, increased biodiversity and enhanced water retention.
4. New/Renewal/Modified: New
5. Duration: Term ending December 31, 2026, with continuing recordkeeping obligations
6. Benefits to Port St. Lucie: Citizens have requested more access to green space in the city in past Citizen Summits. The grant will help prepare the largest conservation parcel in the city for activation.
7. Cost to Port St. Lucie (Annual and Potential): After the project is completed, the City will be required to maintain the area and ensure that invasive species are kept under control.
Presentation Information: N/A
Staff Recommendation: Move that the Council accept the Grant Award and authorize the City Manager to execute the grant agreement.
Alternate Recommendations:
1. Move that the Council amend the recommendation and approve the grant award.
2. Move that the Council not approve the provide staff with direction.
Background: The City has approximately 200 acres of conservation lands, most of which are not currently activated/accessible. The grant funds will be used to support the eventual activation of the largest preserve parcel owned by the city.
Issues/Analysis: N/A
Financial Information: N/A
Special Consideration: N/A
Location of Project: North side of Commerce Centre Drive
Attachments:
1.Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Administration Federal Financial Assistance Subrecipient Agreement.
2. Location Map.
3. Removal and Replanting Plan.
4. Removal and Replanting Cost Estimate.
NOTE: All of the listed items in the “Attachment” section above are in the custody of the City Clerk. Any item(s) not provided in City Council packets are available upon request from the City Clerk.
Internal Reference Number: 25251-01
Legal Sufficiency Review:
Reviewed by Russell Ward, Deputy City Attorney. Approved as to Legal form and sufficiency by Richard Berrios, City Attorney.