TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: Approve the Application to Sarasota County's Community Development Block Grant Program in the Amount up to $800,000 for Two High-Water Rescue Vehicles 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 Application to Sarasota County's Community Development Block Grant Program in the amount up to $800,000 for Two High-Water Rescue Vehicles 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 purpose of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds is to create and improve communities by providing housing, economic opportunities, and community services. CDBG funds are primarily used to benefit low- and moderate-income residents. CDBG funds originate with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and are managed by Sarasota County and then passed through to municipalities within the County. Under 24 CFR 570.201(s), fire protection equipment is considered to be an integral part of a public facility and therefore eligible for CDBG funding.
The North Port Fire Rescue Department is requesting funding for the purchase of two high-water rescue vehicles (HWRV's). A HWRV is a specialized emergency response unit designed to operate in floods and other extreme weather conditions. These vehicles are equipped with advanced features that allow first responders to safely navigate submerged or hazardous terrains, ensuring effective rescue operations and disaster management.
This is a reimbursable grant, meaning the City will spend funds first and then request reimbursement from the granting agency. The grant application deadline was Tuesd...
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