Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes the application for a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Cost-Share Grant. If funding is awarded, the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry Division is authorized to accept the grant; funding will be reflected in the 2024 Capital Budget for the Streets Division to show an increase in state sources funding by $25,000 for funding two Street Tree projects (Munis #12415).
Title
Authorizing the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry Division to Apply for and Accept a Cost-Share Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in the Amount of $25,000
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Madison greatly values and appreciates our urban forest; and
WHEREAS, we are committed to keep our canopy diverse and thriving in the face challenges brought on by a changing climate; and
WHEREAS, trees moderate temperatures, improve stormwater management, and help residents live in greener, healthier neighborhoods, and
WHEREAS, the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry Division is interested in obtaining a cost-share grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the purposes of funding two urban forestry projects as specified in 23.097(1g), Wisconsin State Statute; and
WHEREAS, the proposed projects will help newly planted trees in the City of Madison terraces survive and thrive; and
WHEREAS, the grant includes funding for (1) building gravel beds to receive bare root trees received from nurseries, so these trees can be temporarily planted into these beds to help them re-establish their fine root system, which helps them thrive when eventually permanently planted into terraces, and (2) purchasing devices known as “TreeDiapers” that absorb rainwater then slowly disperses it to newly planted trees to keep them better watered during dry periods and therefore increase their chance of survival; and
WHEREAS, a resolution guaranteeing acceptance of the funds, should they be awarded to the City, is necessary to apply for this grant; and
WHEREAS, the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry Division staff attests to the validity and veracity of the statements and representations contained in the grant application; and
WHEREAS, an agreement with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is required to accept the grant funds should they be awarded; and
WHEREAS, the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry staff will complete all appropriate tasks as required by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to apply for and accept the grant; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the City of Madison Streets and Urban Forestry Division is authorized, on behalf of the City, to apply for and accept the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources grant, and will meet the financial obligations necessary to fully and satisfactorily complete the project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to enter into an agreement with WDNR for the grant, in a format approved by the City Attorney, and that the City Forester is authorized to submit the required documentation to WDNR as required by the grant application.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the City of Madison will comply with all local, state, and federal rules, regulations, and ordinances relating to this project and the cost-share agreement.