CITY COUNCIL: Resolution Authorizing Grant Application to MPRPD fpr Dune Habitat Restoration & Protection, etc., at Carmel Beach

Meeting Date: October 6, 2009
Prepared by: Mike Branson

City Council
Agenda Item Summary

Name: Consideration of a Resolution authorizing a grant application to the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District for dune habitat restoration and protection, ADA access improvements, and the installation of interpretive signs in the Del Mar and North Dunes areas of Carmel Beach.

Description: The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District has available grants for projects related to parks, open space, and coastal preservation. The City recently adopted a Master Plan for the Del Mar and North Dunes areas of Carmel Beach, including provisions to restore and protect the native dune habitat, improve ADA accessibility, and place interpretive signs about the beach and dune habitats. Staff proposes to use grant funds to achieve some of these Master Plan goals. The grant guidelines and application are attached.

Overall Cost:
City Funds: currently none – matching fund are encouraged.
Grant Funds: $10,000 requested

Staff Recommendation: Authorize the grant application to the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District for dune habitat restoration and protection, improvement of ADA access, and placement interpretive signs in the Del Mar and North Dunes areas of Carmel Beach.

Important Considerations: Priority consideration of community and neighborhood park and open space improvement projects that may be considered for funding include (but are not limited to) the following:
1. Projects that increase the safety of park users, particularly young children e.g. replacing older playground equipment with newer, safer equipment.

2. Projects that enhance ADA accessibility.

3. Projects that enhance public awareness and appreciation of parks, recreation and open space, such as trails, overlooks, benches, interpretive signage programs.

4. Projects that involve the acquisition of land that will be used for permanent public parks or open space.

5. Projects that enhance coastal preservation efforts.

Decision Record: The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District awarded the city $8,500 in FY 2006-07 for facility improvements to Forest Hill Park, and $10,000 in FY 2007-08 for construction of a new footbridge in Mission Trail Nature Preserve.

Reviewed by:

______________________________ _________________
Rich Guillen, City Administrator Date

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION 2009-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT REQUEST TO THE MONTEREY PENINSULA REGIONAL PARKS DISTRICT FOR DUNE HABITAT RESTORATION AND PROTECTION, IMPROVEMENTS TO ADA ACCESSIBILITY, AND INSTALLATION OF INTERPRETIVE SIGNS IN THE DEL MAR AND NORTH DUNES AREAS OF CARMEL BEACH
__________________________________________________________________
WHEREAS, the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District has made available grants for parks, open space, and coastal preservation projects within its boundaries; and

WHEREAS, local public agencies such as the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea may apply for
the grants; and

WHEREAS, the City approved a Master Plan for the Del Mar and North Dunes area of Carmel Beach which identifies goals for habitat improvements and protection, improving ADA access, and installing interpretive signs; and

WHEREAS, the grant application filing deadline is October 9, 2009; and

WHEREAS, City Policy C99-04, as amended, requires City Council approval for filing of grant applications.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA DOES:

1. Authorize a grant application to the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District for dune habitat restoration and protection, improvements to ADA access, and installation of interpretive signs in the Del Mar and North Dunes areas of Carmel Beach.

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA this 6th day of October 2009, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

SIGNED,

________________
SUE McCLOUD, MAYOR

ATTEST:

________________________________
Heidi Burch, City Clerk

MONTEREY PENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT PARKS, OPEN SPACE, AND COASTAL
PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM GRANT GUIDELINES

The MPRPD Parks, Open Space and Coastal Preservation Grant program was established to assist local public agencies and community groups with funding for improvements of community and neighborhood parks, open space and preservation of coastal areas. Funding for the program is from the MPRPD Parks, Open Space and Coastal Preservation Assessment District revenues. For FY2009/10, a total of $70,000 is available for allocation to eligible projects.

STATEMENT OF INTENT
The primary objective of the grant program is to provide funding for improvements or significant repairs/replacements at neighborhood community park facilities, and open space and coastal areas. The District recognizes the funding challenges facing local communities, particularly in the area of parks and recreation. The aim of the District is to promote parks and open space projects and to provide funding assistance to local agencies and community groups for the improvement, development, and acquisition of park and open space areas in the communities and neighborhoods where residents live.

Priority consideration of community and neighborhood park and open space improvement projects that may be considered for funding include (but are not limited to) the following:
1. Projects that increase the safety of park users, particularly young children e.g. replacing older playground equipment with newer, safer equipment.

2. Projects that enhance ADA accessibility.

3. Projects that enhance public awareness and appreciation of parks, recreation and open space, such as trails, overlooks, benches, interpretive signage programs.

4. Projects that involve the acquisition of land that will be used for permanent public parks or open space.

5. Projects that enhance coastal preservation efforts.

Any appraisal, legal, escrow, or other acquisition, development, or improvement related activities shall be managed by the participating jurisdiction.

APPLICATION PROCESS
The funding and application process will be kept simple, affording agencies and groups flexibility and discretion, with minimum paperwork and bureaucracy. This will also allow the District to keep the administrative costs associated with the program to a minimum.

1. Applicants shall submit in writing to the District with specific projects for which they propose to utilize MPRPD grant funds. Projects may include facility development and/or replacement, related direct capital costs, and land acquisitions. Costs for normal maintenance and operations, administrative overhead, staff time, insurance and other ongoing costs are not eligible. Applications shall include,
as a minimum, the following information:

• Name and location of the proposed project.
• Brief description of the proposed project. Provide photos where appropriate.
• Describe any safety, accessibility, and open space improvements included in the project.
• Describe how the proposed project is consistent with the jurisdiction's General Plan parks and open space goals and policies.
• Total cost of the proposed project and requested funding. Matching funds from the participating jurisdiction and/or other agencies are encouraged.
• Anticipated long-term maintenance costs and a statement of the jurisdiction's ability to maintain the project.
• How the proposed projects relates to the mission and goals of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District.

2. Applicants may include multiple projects in their application for grant funds.

3. Applicants may accumulate grant funds for a period of generally not more than three years, during which time the District would hold such funds. Any interest earnings would remain with the District.

4. As a condition of agreement, the participating jurisdiction shall indemnify the District for any third-party claims in connection with projects funded by the MPRPD grant program.

5. Payments for approved projects shall be made to the jurisdiction based on a reimbursement of actual costs. No advance payments will be made by the District to the participating jurisdiction unless specifically approved by the MPRPD Board.

6. MPRPD funding or participating projects shall be recognized through appropriate site signage or other means as approved by the participating jurisdiction and the MPRPD Board.

7. Community organizations may submit projects for consideration with a public agency co-sponsor required.

August 2009
© Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
Parks, Open Space and Coastal Preservation
Community/Neighborhood Grant Program Application Form

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
JOE SPLANE
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES MANAGER
60 Garden Court, Suite 325
Monterey, Ca. 93940
tel. 831.372.3196 x5
fax 831.372.3197
email: splane@mprpd.org

Submit grant applications and supporting documentation to the above address. GRANT APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY OCTOBER 9, 2009. Grant awards will be announced in November 2009.

REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS
Please use the following checklist to ensure that you have included the following documents to accompany your application
List of applicant organization Board of Directors with community affiliations
Most recent, completed 2 year audited financial statements
Agency/Organization’s current annual operating budget
Project budget and budget narrative

Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
Parks, Open Space and Coastal Preservation
Community/Neighborhood Grant Program Application Form
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
Organization Name: City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Executive Director: Rich Guillen
City Administrator
Street Address: P.O. Box CC
City/Zip Code: Carmel, 93921
Contact Person: Mike Branson Title: City Forester
Contact Phone #: 831-620-2070 Contact Email: mbranson@ci.carmel.ca.us

MISSION STATEMENT
Briefly summarize the mission of your organization: (Approximately 100 Words)
The mission of the Public Services Department of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is to provide and maintain public services, facilities, and equipment, as established and assigned by the City Council and State Law, that contribute to the health, safety, and well-being of the community and to do so in an efficient and cost effective manner that minimizes detrimental effects to the environment. The Department is responsible for the maintenance of and improvements to the urban forest, all City parks, Carmel Beach, pavement, sidewalks, signage, storm drains, as well as the City fleet of vehicles.

GRANT REQUEST
Name of project you want funding for: (If applicable)
Del Mar and north dunes improvements.

How much are you requesting? $ 10,000 Current Organization Annual Operating Budget:
$13,094,894 – City Budget for FY 2009-10
($ 469,290 – Forest, Parks, and Beach)
($1,170,142 – Public Works)

PROJECT SUMMARY
Describe your project (include why you need our support, and how you plan to implement your project): (Up to 200 Words)

Our project is aimed at implementing the goals of the Del Mar Master Plan. This plan aims to restore sections of the native Carmel dune habitat with a focus on protecting the endangered Tidestrom’s lupine and threatened California black legless lizard. The plan also includes construction of an ADA accessible boardwalk and viewing platform to provide a natural beach experience for disabled visitors and installing interpretive signs informing visitors of the uniqueness of the dune environment and the special species that live there.

A dune restoration and enhancement plan has been developed which outlines the process and procedures to achieve the dune protection goals.

We hope for support from the MPRPD to help the City of Carmel achieve the goals of the master plan for the future enjoyment of the thousands of visitors to Carmel Beach. Implementation will be achieved through the use of volunteers, contractors, and city staff.

WHO DO YOU SERVE
What geographic area does your project serve? (city, county and, if possible, neighborhoods)
Carmel Beach is located within the city limits of Carmel-by-the-Sea and is the second largest unit of the City park system. Carmel Beach is one of the signature icons of Carmel-by-the-Sea and is recognized by many travel publications as one of the best beaches in the country, if not the world. The beach area serves the residents of Carmel, residents of the Monterey Peninsula and Monterey county, and thousands of visitors from around the globe.

OBJECTIVES
Please indicate which of the following objectives your project addresses: (check all that apply)
Increase the safety of park users, particularly young children
Enhance ADA accessibility to park and recreation facilities
Enhance public awareness and appreciation of parks, recreation, and open space
Increase the amount of permanent public parks or open space
Enhance coastal preservation

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Describe your project below. Be sure to address the following points: (500 words maximum)
􀁹 Name and location of the proposed project.
􀁹 Describe any safety, accessibility, and open space improvements included in the project.
􀁹 Describe how the project is consistent with the applicable jurisdiction’s General Plan parks and open space goals and policies.
􀁹 Identify the total cost of the proposed project and the level of funding requested. Matching funds are encouraged.
􀁹 Discuss relevant partnerships and collaborations.
􀁹 Discuss applicable long term maintenance costs, including a statement of the jurisdiction’s ability to maintain the project.
􀁹 Explain why this work is important and how it meets the priorities of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District.

Description: (500 words maximum)
The Del Mar and north dunes area of Carmel Beach encompass the most visited and least visited sections of Carmel Beach. The Del Mar area is located at the western end of Ocean Ave. and is the place most visitors see Carmel Beach for the first time. There is public parking and public restrooms at this location and a short walk to the edge of the dune slopes provides a panoramic view of Carmel Bay.

The north dunes are located to the north of the Del Mar area and are a quiet retreat from the hustle of Ocean Ave. This area has some of the last remnants of native dune habitat along Carmel Beach and is used mostly by locals to sunbathe, picnic, and pass through to the waterfront area.

Our project aims to restore sections of the native Carmel dune habitat with a focus on protecting the endangered Tidestrom’s lupine and threatened California black legless lizard. The plan also includes construction of an ADA accessible boardwalk and viewing platform to provide a natural beach experience for disabled visitors and installing interpretive signs informing visitors of the uniqueness of the dune environment and the special species that live there.

This project will meet three of the grant objectives of the MPRPD: enhance ADA access, enhance coastal preservation and enhance public awareness and appreciation of parks, recreation, and open space. This work if fully, or even partially achieved, will be seen by thousands of people each year and hopefully lead to an enhanced visit for all visitors to Carmel Beach.

The Del Mar master plan was recently adopted and a specific budget has not yet been fully developed for all of the work involved. The ADA walkway is estimated to cost between $4,000 and $8,000 depending on the materials and labor source. The sign estimate is $800 - $1,500 per sign depending on the materials and labor.

The dune restoration is more difficult to put a cost on estimate because of the many factors to be considered in each area such as labor source, level of prep work, amount of new plant material, level of follow-up required, etc.

While no funding is included in the current city budget for this project it will take a few years of efforts to achieve all of the master plan goals and some city funding may be available in the future.

As far as collaborations on this project, there has been some interest expressed by the Carmel Garden Club to assist with a portion of the dune restoration and preservation work. The city also works with the students and faculty of the Hilton Bialek Habitat and Carmel High School ROP programs to propagate and plant many plants along the Scenic Road walkway and other park areas each year. The Carmel Residents Association may also be part of the volunteer efforts in this endeavor.

Long term maintenance will probably rely on the direction of city staff and the periodic use of volunteers or longterm collaborations with volunteer groups.

This project is a long term goal for the City of Carmel and its residents to preserve a special part of this community and its historic legacy with the natural environment.

OUTCOMES
What are the main outcomes you expect to see from your project and this request? Please be as specific as possible in describing tangible results. (100 Words)

Expected outcomes of this project are:
Greater recognition and appreciation of the diverse Carmel Beach dune ecosystem.
Protection and enhancement of the Tidestrom’s lupine and California black legless lizard habitat.
Improved beach experience and available scenic vistas for disabled visitors to Carmel Beach.
Improved public education on the need to protect the dune plants and animals and reduce the human impact on the dune habitat.

OTHER INFORMATION
Is there any other information that we might need to understand your organization and/or the unique needs of the community that your program serves? (100 Words)

Carmel-by-the-Sea has many parks of various sizes that serve the passive and active recreational needs of the residents and visitors to the city. Carmel Beach is probably the most visited and well known park, but is considered an environmentally sensitive habitat and is home to two threatened species.

The city of Carmel-by-the-Sea is committed to the preservation and protection of the unique resources Carmel Beach to offers the diverse range of visitors to the Carmel-by-the-Sea.

MORE ABOUT YOUR ORGANIZATION
Financial Information
Tax Status:
501(c)3 Public Charity
Public Agency
School District
Other Non-profit Org:
501 (c)3 Private Foundation
IRS Employer ID #: 94-6000306

ABOUT YOUR BUDGET
Total Project Budget (If Applicable): $ 50,000 estimate – see discussion
Amount Requested: $ 10,000

OTHER MAJOR FUNDING SOURCES
Name of Source Amount Status
None at the present time.

BUDGET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE
Please attach a budget as well as descriptive budget narrative that corresponds with your request. For each line item in the budget, please provide a brief description of how the requested funds will be used.

For example, “Transportation: $2,500.00 – will allow bus transportation for 35 students to attend a 7-day outdoor nature education program.”

PRINT NAME OF INDIVIDUAL COMPLETING APPLICATION: __MIKE BRANSON________________
SIGNATURE: ______________________________________
DATE: ___SEPTEMBER 28, 2009______________________