Subject:
Title
Approval to submit grant application and execute associated agreement, modifications, and amendments upon award of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Florida Boating Improvement Program Grant for Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department Boating and Waterways’ Boating Study.
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Fiscal Impact:
FWC Florida Boating Improvement Program Grant revenue of $167,782 with $25,000 match from Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department funds (0004-215260, Permitting Fees).
Dept/Office:
Natural Resources Management Department
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board of County Commissioners 1) Approve the Natural Resources Management Department to apply for the FWC Florida Boating Improvement Program Grant, 2) Authorize the County Manager to execute the grant agreement, future grant amendments, and modifications, if the grant is awarded by FWC, upon review and approval by the County Attorney’s Office, Risk Management, and Purchasing Services, and 3) Authorize the County Manager to approve all associated budget change requests.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
With over 36,000 registered vessels, Brevard County ranks high among Florida’s top boating locations. A boating study was previously conducted in 2007. Since the last assessment, significant demographic and infrastructure changes have occurred throughout the county. Therefore, an updated assessment is essential to accurately reflect the current conditions and requirements to support the County’s efforts in planning for boater facilities. This study will identify boating activity patterns and facility availability, as well as analyze boating access; boating activity and movement; and boat ramp and marina usage patterns. Pertinent data will be obtained to assist with future infrastructure planning and policy decisions to preserve and potentially enhance boating access to Brevard County's waterways. If approved, the grant funding, along with the contributing funds from Brevard County Natural Resources, would cover the costs for the boating study, which includes boating aerial surveys, data compilation, analysis, and the production of a final report.
Clerk to the Board Instructions:
N/A