PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

 City Council authorized issuance of $750,000 in Certificates of Obligation for parks improvements in both FY24 and FY25.

BACKGROUND:

The City, through its Grant Writer and in coordination with the Parks Department, submitted a grant application in August under the GVEC Power Up Grant Program.  The City's project proposal is titled "Cibolo's Partnered Trailways Project" and is based on recommendations from City Council for amenities on the HEB trail and pond.  The Project will provide a significant impact to the site, by powering up the pond for an aeration fountain system, preserving the health of the fishing pond.  The project also provides for installation of solar-powered benches along the trail.  The $20,000 grant award by GVEC provides for 17.5% of the funding for the $114,000 overall project. The project must be completed in 12 months.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

City staff recommends acceptance of the grant awarded by GVEC and that the City share of the project be funded by a portion of the $750,000 issued in 2024 bond funds for park improvements.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

The grant award from GVEC is $20,000 and would provide funding for 17.5% of the proposed project. 

If City Council accepts this grant, the balance of available capital improvement funds from the FY2024 budget will be reduced by $94,000 from $750,000 to $656,000. City staff is preparing a presentation for the January 23, 2025, City Council meeting to seek feedback and direction on park priorities for capital improvements. City Council approved an additional $750,000 in the FY2025 budget for park improvements to existing parks and open space. Combined, the City has allocated $1,500,000 across FY2024 and FY2025 for park related capital improvements.

MOTION(S):

I move to accept (or decline) the $20,000 grant award under the GVEC Power Up Grant program.