SUBJECT
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Approve Amendment One of the Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant Agreement (S0232-A1) made between the Florida Department of Commerce (Commerce) and Polk County (County) The amendment removes the minimum County match requirement of 30% and allows for full fee land acquisition in addition to conservation easements. (no fiscal impact)
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DESCRIPTION
Polk County (“County”) has partnered with the Department of Commerce (Commerce) to acquire conservation lands. The County has been strategically working with the Department of Defense conserving lands near the Avon Park Air Force Range (APAFR) to protect portions of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, preserve uplands and wetlands that support sustainable water resources for South Florida’s agricultural operations and urban populations, support key wildlife conservation corridors to nearby protected lands, provide economic benefit by supporting outdoor recreation and agricultural production.
To continue this successful partnership the County applied for a Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant and was awarded $500,000 from the State of Florida Department of Commerce. The Commerce has amended the agreement to allow for full-fee acquisitions near APAFR’s boundary. The amendment also removes the minimum 30% County match requirement for the project.
Section 288.980(5), Florida Statutes (“F.S.”), established the Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant Program (the “Program”) supports local infrastructure projects deemed to have a positive impact on the military value of installations within the state. Funds provided pursuant to this Agreement must be used to support the state or local community and the military installation. The proposed project addresses compatibility issues including APAFR’s three-mile buffer zone around the perimeter as well as portions of low-level flying training areas and areas where night vision training is conducted.
The term of the original agreement is effective July 1, 2023 and extends until June 30, 2026. The Commerce will reimburse the County up to $500,000 for acquisition of lands that satisfy the scope of work. The amendment removes the minimum match requirement of 30% as match for the project and allows for full fee land acquisition in addition to conservation easements. The County will work with willing sellers that are within the priority areas around the APAFR to acquire property full-fee or through a conservation easement.
RECOMMENDATION
Approve Amendment One of the Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant Agreement (S0281) made between Florida Department of Commerce (Commerce) and Polk County (County)
FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Tabitha Biehl, Land and Water Natural Areas Manager
Parks and Natural Resources Division
(863) 534-7377
tabithabiehl@polk-county.net
Gaye Sharpe, Director
Parks and Natural Resources Division
(863) 534-7377
gayesharpe@polk-county.net