Kathleen S. Margoles

Community and Economic Development Director

Issue Statement:   Two of the projects recommended for funding for the CDBG 42^nd Year  require a request to reallocate funds.  Junior Achievement declined the award of $15,000 due to the reporting requirements.  The City/CRA is also requesting the $156,068 award for the South Anchor Parking Lot be changed to provide funds for the construction of the South End Plaza.

Recommended Solution: The City Commission authorize a request to Broward County to reallocate the 42^nd Year CDBG funds to the South Plaza located on City owned property north of Oakland Park Boulevard and east of Main Street.

Placemaking is an essential component to successful cities, especially downtowns.  In November 2016, the Jaco Grand Plaza at the south end of Jaco Pastorius Park was completed.  The plaza and fountain have created a fantastic entry to Jaco Park, enhancing the park and event experience and linking the park with downtown.

In 2016, the City was awarded a $500,000 grant from the Florida Cultural Division for the Main Street Cultural Facility.  The facility includes the Jaco Grand Plaza, a sound system along Main Street and the South End Plaza.   The City contracted with Craven, Thompson and Associates for a design of the South End Plaza and a fountain.  

At the December 14, 2016 meeting, the City Commission authorized staff to apply for 43^rd Year CDBG funding of $156,068 for the South End Plaza.   That application is completed and waiting for the County to announce a submission date. The Commission also requested verification from the County that the City could reallocate the nonprofit award to a public infrastructure project.  County Staff responded that the reallocation was permitted. 

Reallocation of the CDBG funds does not have financial impact but the additional grant funds of $15,000 that was initially allocated for Junior Achievement does provide additional funds for the  South Plaza Project.

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Staff recommends that the City Commission authorize the City Manager to request a reallocation of the 42^nd Year CDBG funds of $171,068 to the South Plaza Project and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement upon Broward County Board of Commissioners approval.