Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes the Parks Division to apply for, and accept if awarded, grant funding from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Brownfields Grant Program for up to $250,000. The grant will fund a portion of the cost of improvements for the Olbrich Park - North Parcel park development and requires a 20% match of $50,000. Match funding is available in the 2026 Adopted Parks Division Capital Budget in the Garver Environmental Project (MUNIS 17169). If awarded, the Parks Division's Capital Budget will be amended to reflect the award. No additional appropriation is required.
Title
Authorizing the Parks Division to apply for a grant through the Brownfields Grant Program from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for the Olbrich Park - North Parcel Site Remediation Project, the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the resulting grant agreement if awarded, and amending the 2026 Parks Division Capital Budget to allow for acceptance of up to $250,000, if awarded the grant. (District 15)
Body
WHEREAS, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) aims to fund projects through the Brownfields Grant Program that include the development and rehabilitation of brownfield sites; and,
WHEREAS, the Olbrich Park - North Parcel Park Development Plan was adopted by the Board of Park Commissioners on May 8, 2024 (Legislative File #83145), and outlines improvements to the Olbrich Park - North Parcel to develop a welcoming and environmentally responsible addition to Olbrich Park (the “Project”); and,
WHEREAS, the maximum award for the WEDC Brownfields Grant Program is $250,000, and the awardee is required to provide a twenty-percent match, which will be met by this Project; and,
WHEREAS, a pre-condition of redevelopment on this site requires extensive remediation of existing soil contamination on-site in compliance with State and City regulations; and,
WHEREAS, The Project will transform the area into a safe, environmentally responsible and inviting extension of Olbrich Park, provide enhanced green spaces, improved accessibility, and thoughtfully designed amenities that support recreation, community gathering, biodiversity, and urban wildlife habitat; and,
WHEREAS, the Grant requires a $50,000 match, which is authorized in the Parks Division’s 2026 Adopted Capital Budget.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Madison would benefit from the funds and assistance available from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation under the Brownfields Grant Program for the Project and will comply with the State rules for the program if awarded the grant; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Parks Division is authorized, on behalf of the City, to apply for a grant of up to $250,000 through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation under the Brownfields Grant Program for the Project and sign all application materials; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that, if awarded the grant, the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to enter into a grant agreement with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, in a format approved by the City Attorney; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Parks Superintendent, or designee, is authorized to act on behalf of the City in the administration of the grant award; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that if the grant is awarded, the 2026 Parks Division Capital Budget shall be amended to appropriate the grant award and corresponding expenditures in the amount of the grant funds awarded, up to $250,000.