SUBJECT
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Approve The Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant Agreement (S0232) made between Florida Department of Commerce (Commerce) and Polk County (County) (one-time revenue of $500,000).
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DESCRIPTION
Polk County ("County") is home to Avon Park Air Force Range ("APAFR"). The County has been strategically working with the Department of Defense conserving lands near the 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 an 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 $500,000.00 from the State of Florida Department of Commerce to purchase conservation easements near APAFR's boundary.
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. Projects that relate to encroachment, construction, transportation and access, utilities, communications, housing, environment, and security are eligible to receive funding under this program. The Grantee must represent a local government with a military installation or installations that could be adversely affected by federal actions. The State Fiscal Year 2023-2024 funding for the grant is provided by the 2023 General Appropriations Act in line-item number 2362, Grants and Aids to Local Governments and Non-state Entities-Fixed Capital Outlay Space, Defense, and Rural Infrastructure.
The proposed project addresses compatibility is...
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