CCP 12-09-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Option #4: Create a grant program for a variety of small and medium-sized projects. Description: The County could create a grant program in which eligible entities could apply for funding that meets pre-established criteria. The County would issue grants in varying amounts for eligible purposes. This is similar to the approach used by Henncpin County. Examples: . The County could provide grants to a developcr to pay for environmental assessment costs not covcrcd by othcr funding. . Provide a grant to a municipality to pay for somc of the costs associated with clean up of small sites for dcvelopment, such as smaller commcrcial projects that are difficult to fund when competing with larger commercial projects. . Providc a grant to a municipality to conduct an environmental assessment on an "orphan" property. . Projects such as the suburban wide lead bascd paint project could be undertaken by the Public Health Department as IDJD funds are not available; it could be expanded to thc City of Saint Paul when HUD funds run out. . Smaller housing projects that need minimal clean up to mect housing standards could qualify. These are often infill projects and have bcen zoned commercial. Habitat for Humanity often works in these areas. Pros: . Helps fill gaps when other funding is not available. . Some of the smallcr communities would feel they had a shot at some of the money. Cons: . Significant administrative costs: The county would need staff time from several dcpartmcnts to design, implcment and monitor a grants program. Hennepin County uses 3-4 FTE's for three grant programs. Ramsey County does not currently have staff in this function. . Funding would be taken away from thc more significant projects--with the small amonnt available, every dollar counts. . Difficult to track the resulting environmental benefit. /0 . . .