Sierra Marrero,

Assistant Director of Engineering and Building Services

Brynt Johnson,

Director of Engineering and Building Services

Issue Statement: The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Office of Energy administers the Florida Urban Community Farming Pilot Grant Program. As part of the application process, staff seeks to include a resolution authorizing the City to apply for and receive assistance for qualifying projects under this grant program.

Background: In July 2021, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Office of Energy announced the establishment of the Florida Urban and Community Farming Pilot Program. This program is designed to provide funding to local governments and community-based non-profit organizations to support urban and community farming projects to promote cleaner air, lower building heating and cooling costs, and provide additional stable, affordable, and secure sources of fresh produce. 

Staff seeks to apply for funding to support the development of a community garden at the Dr. Carter G. Woodson Park. 

Staff examined the information provided by the State with respect to the type of projects that may be eligible for funding and the evaluation criteria. Based on the eligibility and criteria it is recommended that the City submit an application for community gardens at Dr. Carter G. Woodson Park.