Subject:
Title
Authorization to apply for a Resilient Florida grant to develop a countywide surface water model framework and coastal surge real-time flood warning system
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Fiscal Impact:
Potential $900,000 grant award, no General Fund impact
$100,000 of Local Match from Stormwater Assessment Fees,
Dept/Office:
Natural Resources Management
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board authorize and approve:
(1) an application for a Resilient Florida grant;
(2) the County Manager to execute associated future Grant Agreements and amendments, execute Contracts, Task Orders, Change Orders, modifications, upon County Attorney’s Office and Risk Management approval; and
(3) the County Manager to execute all necessary budget amendments (BCRs).
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Summary Explanation and Background:
As a coastal county, Brevard is challenged by flooding concerns that are limited by canal and drainage system capacities as well as water levels in receiving waterbodies. Flooding can severely impact our residents and infrastructure.
Phase I of this project to be proposed for Resilient Florida funding, will include the development of a countywide surface water model framework and a coastal surge real-time flood warning system that leverages NOAA’s forecasts to develop a countywide early flood warning system. The resulting flood warning system will allow Brevard to respond proactively and build resilience against storm threats.
Resulting tools could provide advanced notification to the county and municipal personnel of the potential flood levels and impacts. Brevard will be better prepared to take proactive steps to mitigate risks, warn residents, avoid damage, and to better allocate resources to recover quicker.
Grant products will complement a flood forecasting project by the St. John’s River Water Management District (SJRWMD) for the St. Johns basin. Discussions to collaborate with SJRWMD are already in progress.
The County also seeks to leverage relevant work by East Central Florida Planning Council (ECFRPC) and to share data with the Florida Flood Hub during the course of the project.
Clerk to the Board Instructions: