Fiscal Note
This resolution authorizes a contract with the Project for Public Spaces to provide placemaking training in key neighborhoods. The cost of the contract is $40,500 $45,000 and will be supported through existing appropriations to the Planning Division. Due to timing, a portion of this contract may be charged to the 2018 budget.
Title
SUBSTITUTE - Strengthening and Expanding Community Empowerment through Placemaking in Key Neighborhoods and Authorizing a Contract with Project for Public Spaces for Placemaking Training and Assistance in the Implementation of Short-Term Improvements in Neighborhood Community Places.
Body
WHEREAS, several neighborhoods are facing critical challenges, including rising gun violence and lack of connection to jobs and government services; and
WHEREAS, community engagement is an important element in reducing violence and supporting beneficial community activities; and
WHEREAS, placemaking is a process of people coming together to create vibrant public spaces at the heart of their community and gives community members an opportunity to participate directly in the betterment of the places that matter to them through ideas, plans and design and through hands-on co-creation, day-to-day programming and self-management; and
WHEREAS, the City has employed Neighborhood Resource Teams in key neighborhoods for many years to better connect residents with services; and
WHEREAS, intensive community involvement in public spaces can help enhance the work of Neighborhood Resource Teams; and
WHEREAS, community members take the leading role in placemaking efforts, while staff on NRTs, city departments, planning and design professionals, and politicians take the role of advisors and supporters; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Division has funding in its 2017 adopted operating budget for placemaking projects; and
WHEREAS, the Project for Public Spaces is a non-profit planning, design and educational organization dedicated to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build stronger communities; and
WHEREAS, the Project for Public Spaces was founded in 1975, has completed projects in over 3,000 communities in 43 countries and all 50 states, and trains more than 10,000 people every year; and
WHEREAS, the Project for Public Spaces uses a unique approach to improving communities by fostering successful public spaces; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute a sole source contract or contracts with Project for Public Spaces for up to $40,500 $45,000 from the Planning Division for placemaking training and identification of pilot projects.