TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: Approve the Grant Application to the AARP Community Challenge Grant Program in the Amount of $15,000 for a MobiMat for Warm Mineral Springs Park and Authorize the City Manager or the Mayor, as Applicable Under the City Charter, to Execute all Funding Documents After Legal Review, Should the Grant be Awarded to the City.
Recommended Action
Approve the Grant Application to the AARP Community Challenge Grant Program in the amount of $15,000 for a MobiMat for Warm Mineral Springs Park and authorize the City Manager or the Mayor, as applicable under the City Charter, to execute all funding documents after Legal Review, should the grant be awarded to the City.
Background Information
The AARP Community Challenge Grant Program is part of the nationwide AARP Livable Communities initiative that helps communities become great places to live for residents of all ages. The program is intended to help communities make immediate improvements and jump-start long-term progress. The intended purpose of this program is to fund projects that benefit residents, especially those aged 50 and older, by creating vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks, and access to other amenities.
Warm Mineral Springs Park is a cherished natural resource in our community, attracting approximately 150,000 visitors annually, most aged 50 and older. To enhance accessibility and ensure that all guests can fully enjoy the Springs' therapeutic benefits, we propose installing a MobiMat. A MobiMat is a high-quality roll-out pathway that provides stable and slip-resistant access over sand, grass, and other uneven surfaces.
It is made of durable, eco-friendly materials and is ADA-compliant, making it ideal for improving accessibility in natural areas. The MobiMat will extend from key entry points around the Springs, offering a continuous, user-friendly pathway for individuals with limited mobility.
This is a front-loaded grant, meaning the City will receive the money up front rather than request reimbursement from the granting agency once the project is complete. The grant application deadline was Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Notification of award is expected in Summer 2025.
If awarded, contracts will be reviewed for form and correctness by the City Attorney.
Strategic Plan
Quality of Life
Infrastructure and Facilities Integrity
Environmental Resiliency and Sustainability
Economic Development and Growth Management
Financial Impact
The total project cost is estimated to be approximately $15,000 for the purchase and installation of the MobiMat at Warm Mineral Springs Park. Potential award from the grant is $15,000. Matching funds are not required. Park Staff will install the MobiMat. Maintenance costs for the MobiMat will be made a regular part of the Parks and Recreation Department annual budget.
Procurement
Procurement code, policies and procedures will be followed when the purchase is made.
Attachments:
1. AARP Grant Application
Prepared by: Michael J. Davey, PhD, Grants Coordinator
Department Director: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager