Subject
title
Approve and Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Project Agreement with the State of Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requesting Program Open Space funding in the amount of $153,000 to fund a portion of the renovation of David Scull Park Improvements project.
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Department
Recreation & Parks
Recommendation
Staff recommend the Mayor and Council of Rockville approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the project agreement (Attachment 1) to apply for a $153,000 Program Open Space grant administered by the State of Maryland Department of Natural Resources. This grant requires a 25% city match in the amount of $38,250 which is already included with in the David Scull Park Improvements (RA19) project.
Discussion
Program Open Space Local provides financial and technical assistance to local subdivision for the planning, acquisition, and/or development of recreation land or open space areas. Established under the Department of Natural Resources in 1969, Program Open Space symbolizes Maryland’s long-term commitment to conserving our natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities within our community.
POS Local funds are allocated annually to the 23 Maryland Counties and Baltimore City based on a formula. Funds may be used to acquire or develop land for public recreation or open space use. Projects must be included in the county’s POS Local Annual Program <https://dnr.maryland.gov/land/Pages/ProgramOpenSpace/Program-Open-Space-Local-Annual-Programs.aspx> and funding must be authorized by the county for projects to be considered. Individual projects funded are determined by the local jurisdiction and then brought to the Maryland Board of Public Works for approval. Rockville’s local jurisdiction is Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
David Scull Park Improvements project would be one of more than 30 Rockville parks that have received POS funding during the past 35 years. Montgomery Parks and the State of Maryland DNR have been strong supporters and partners in developing throughout the Rockville park system. The City is working with Montgomery Parks to secure this POS grant funding from the State.
Mayor and Council History
This is the first time a POS grant for David Scull Park has come to the Mayor and Council.
Boards and Commissions Review
The Recreation and Park Advisory Board reviews CIP projects during the budget process.
Fiscal Impact
If approved, the POS grant of $153,000 will be added to the David Scull Park Improvements project via a FY 2027 budget amendment. The grant requires a 25% city match in the amount of $38,250 which is already included within the David Scull Park Improvements (RA19) project.
Next Steps
If approved and authorized by Mayor and Council, the City Manager will execute the attached agreement, and City staff will administer the application and the grant process with Montgomery Parks and the State of Maryland DNR.