SUBJECT
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Approve the Florida Communities Trust Grant Agreement (F2407) made between Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and Polk County (County) (one-time revenue of $1,775,000).
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DESCRIPTION
Management of water in the Upper Peace River is a priority for the region, and the County has looked at ways to address water quality and flood management challenges. In addition to the Peace River, there are several tributaries that have great influence on the water quality of this system. Phyllis Branch was identified as one tributary where stormwater infrastructure enhancements could have a positive effect on water quality and water management entering the Peace River. Phyllis Branch flows into Lower Saddle Creek that joins with the Peace Creek Canal to form the Peace River.
The County identified land parcels that could assist in the implementation of a water quality improvement project and provide additional community benefits. Once the parcels were identified the County submitted a grant application to Florida Department of Environmental Protection ("FDEP") Florida Communities Trust ("FCT") and was awarded $1,775,000 from FDEP to be used for full fee acquisition of the targeted parcels.
The identified land acquisition parcels will provide opportunity for water quality improvement, possible flood mitigation, protection wildlife corridor, recreation opportunities, a possible regional trail connection and will further assist in implementation of the County's Comprehensive Plan which aligns with FCT's goals.
The terms of this grant agreement require the County to provide a match of $1,775,000 for a total project cost of $3,500,000. The County was awarded federal grant funding (in the amount of $1,921,749 that is in the Stormwater CIP Peace River Corridor project) to be used as match to implement the project. A CIP adjustment will be made during FY25/26 budget process to add the $1,775,000.00 to the Special Revenue Grant fund.
Overall, this pr...
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