Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes the Parks Division to apply for and accept if awarded, grant funding of up to $500,000 from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources financial aid programs. The grant will fund a portion of the costs of improvements for the Warner Park Southeast Area Development Project. Matching funding is available within the Parks Division’s Adopted Capital Budget within Field Improvements Program (Munis #17235). If awarded, the Parks Division’s 2024 Adopted Capital Budget will be amended to appropriate the grant funding.
Title
Authorizing the Parks Division to submit, and if awarded, accept grant of up to $500,000 from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for park improvements and authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into a contract with State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to accept grant award. (District 18)
Body
WHEREAS, at the request of the Brentwood Neighborhood Resource Team, the Parks Division’s 2020 and 2021 Adopted Capital Budgets included funding to begin planning for and implementation of the reconfiguration of the Warner Park Southeast area project, which was delayed due to COVID-19 and remains funding remains available; and,
WHEREAS, at the request of the Brentwood Neighborhood Resource Team to improve access to southeast area of Warner Park, the Parks Division’s 2022 Adopted Capital Budget authorized a bridge connection, which was installed in the southeast corner of Warner Park in 2002; and,
WHEREAS, the 2018-2023 Park and Open Space Plan calls for the “Design Park Facilities to accommodate Diverse Activities and Populations”; and,
WHEREAS, the Parks Division received Grant Eligibility Extension for Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan through December 31, 2024 from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as staff and consultant team continue to update the 2025-2030 Park and Open Space Plan, which is expected to be consistent with the aforementioned strategy; and,
WHEREAS, the Dane County 2018-2023 Park and Open Space Plan, recommends agencies “provide sufficient park land and recreation facilities to meet the demand of Dane County residents without adversely affecting existing natural and cultural resources;” and,
WHEREAS, the Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) identifies that all types of trails are in demand and that agencies should “Boost participation in outdoor recreation;” and,
WHEREAS, Parks Division staff have led engagement efforts and developed plans for redevelopment of the park that aligns with the aforementioned strategies and goals by creating flexible updated athletic facilities that will be used for a variety of recreational purposes, ensures equitable access and extends the outdoor recreation season during the spring and summer; and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Park Commissioners and Common Council finds that it is in the public interest that the Warner Park Southeast Area Development project be implemented as described in the application; and,
WHEREAS, the Parks Division’s Adopted Capital Budget allocates sufficient matching funds and financial aid is required to carry out the project; and,
WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby recognizes and acknowledges the long-term operations and maintenance responsibilities associated with the proposed project, and will all obligations under the grant award contract for the project if awarded the grant; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Parks Division is hereby authorized to act on behalf of the City of Madison as follows:
• Submit an application to the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for any financial aid that may be available.
• Submit reimbursement claims along with necessary supporting documentation within 6 months of project completion date.
• Submit Signed Documents; and,
• Take necessary action to undertake, direct and complete the approved project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if awarded, the Parks Division’s Adopted Capital Budget Field Improvements Program (MUNIS 17235) will be amended to accept grant funding of up to $500,000 from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources financial aid programs and sign any documents necessary for that purpose or to administer the grant; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Parks Division will comply with state or federal rules for the programs; may perform force account work; will maintain the completed project in an attractive, inviting, and safe manner; will keep the facilities open to the general public during reasonable hours consistent with the type of facility; and will obtain from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources or the National Park Service approval in writing before any change is made in the use of the project site; and,
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that, if awarded the grant, the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign a grant agreement with State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, in a format approved by the City Attorney, and any other documents necessary to comply with the grant requirements and to secure the grant funding.