Report Prepared by: Christopher Jensen, Director, Parks & Community Services
Title
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Submit a Grant Application to the California Natural Resources Agency, Youth Community Access Grant to Fund the Purchase of Two Energy Efficient Vehicles to Transport Youth in Outdoor Recreation Programs
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting a Resolution authorizing submittal of a grant application to the California Natural Resources Agency, Youth Community Access Grant. Grant funds will be used to purchase two Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles that will be used to transport program participants in the My City Mentoring and other outdoor recreational programs offered through Parks & Community Services. No matching funds are required.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2023-71, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, approving the application for grant funds for the Youth Community Access Grant Program; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager or the Deputy City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve as recommended by staff; or,
2. Deny.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200
Charter of the City of Merced, Article IV, Section 405
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Provide Youth Development Programs and Services that Promote Youth Involvement as identified in the FY 23/24 adopted City Council Goals & Priorities.
DISCUSSION
California Natural Resources Agency provided funds for the Youth Community Access Grant Program. The Youth Community Access Grant aims to support youth access to natural and cultural resources with a focus on low-income and disadvantaged communities. Parks & Community Services provides outdoor recreational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Merced through the My City Mentoring program. My City Mentoring activities include trips to local parks, creeks, and regional spaces such as the Merced & San Luis National Wildlife Refuge(s) and Yosemite National Park. These trips foster many outcomes for participants but require ongoing supportive transportation to reduce barriers to accessing these resources. The Youth Community Access Grant provides an extension of the opportunity to more youth while simultaneously reducing both the program expense and vehicle emissions.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
No appropriation of funds is required at this time. Should the grant be awarded, the award notice will be presented to the City Council for future action. There is no required local match for this grant program.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution 2023-71