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Information |
TITLE: |
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2024-08: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, authorizing the grant agreement for an Arizona State Parks Heritage Fund - Environmental Education grant, agreement # 632407, for the continuation of the Open Space Education Coordinator position to provide outdoor environmental programs for the community, for an additional two years. |
STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION: |
- Read Resolution No. 2024-08 by title only
- City Clerk reads Resolution No. 2024-08 by title only (if approved above)
- Adopt Resolution No. 2024-08
- Authorize the grant agreement with the Arizona State Parks Board for the Heritage Fund Environmental Education grant program, for grant funds in the amount of $119,724 with a city match of $15,500, for the continuation of the Open Space Education Coordinator position to provide outdoor environmental programs for the community.
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Executive Summary: |
Funding will allow the Open Space Section to promote and provide outdoor environmental programs and recreational opportunities for the community, especially for indigenous and historically underrepresented youth, for an additional two years. The goal of this program is to employ a staff member as a full-time equivalent (based on 35 hours per week) to provide indigenous youth with the opportunity to learn about STEAM-related fields in conjunction with traditional culture, community, and environmental stewardship. Five objectives will be completed to promote and provide outdoor environmental protection programs.
- Continue the design and implementation of outdoor lessons that help expose students to the natural world through experiential field trips designed to expose students to STEAM topics and careers.
- Continue existing elementary, middle, and high school outdoor educational programming.
- Continue outdoor community programs that bring an understanding of environmental issues and support recreational opportunities.
- Continue to increase awareness and opportunities of outdoor educational programming for underprivileged community members via social media, in-person contact, outdoor education events, volunteer recruitment materials, and partnering with community organizations.
- Continue coordinating our volunteer program (Open Space Stewards) as a method for providing additional community education, creating a presence in open spaces, educating visitors, and completing environmental projects.
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Financial Impact: |
Grant funds available total $119,724. Open Space Section funds totaling $15,500 are budgeted in account 001-11-159-0665-5-4290 as a grant match. Total project cost is $135,224. |
Policy Impact: |
There are no policy impacts. |
Connection to PBB Priorities/Objectives, Carbon Neutrality Plan & Regional Plan: |
Priority-Based Budget Key Community Priorities and Objectives
- Inclusive and Engaged Community: Promote environmental justice and the fair distribution of environmental benefits.
- Livable Community: Support regional partners which provide equitable and inclusive educational opportunities for Flagstaff residents of all ages.
- Environmental Stewardship: Engage community members through education and volunteer opportunities.
Carbon Neutrality Plan
- Carbon Neutrality Plan Strategy 3
- ES-2: Proactively engage community members on an ongoing basis.
Regional Plan Support
- Goal LU.3. Continue to enhance the region's unique sense of place within the urban, suburban, and rural context (Policy LU.3.3).
- Policy OS.1.4. Use open space as opportunities for non-motorized connectivity, to interact with nature, and to enjoy the views and quiet.
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Has There Been Previous Council Decision on This: |
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2022-11, A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, authorizing the grant agreement for an Arizona State Parks Heritage Fund - Environmental Education grant. |
Options and Alternatives: |
Option A – Adopt Resolution No. 2024-08 and authorize the grant agreement between the Arizona State Parks Board (BOARD) and The City of Flagstaff for the Heritage Fund Environmental Education grant program for grant funds in the amount of $119,724.00 with a city match of $15,500.00, to allow staff to continue implementation of the Open Space outdoor education program.
Option B – Do not adopt Resolution No. 2024-08 which would have the effect of not accepting grant funds. |
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