Title
Resolution Approving Applications and Subsequent Agreements for FEMA Funded Grants through the NC Department of Public Safety in an Estimated Amount Totaling $469,000 to Assist with the Purchase and Elevation of Flood Prone Properties Along North Buffalo Creek
Body
Council Priority: Maintain Infrastructure and Provide Sustainable Growth Opportunities
Department: Water Resources
Council District: 3
Public Hearing: N/A
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Steven Drew, (336) 373-7893
Contact 2 and Phone: Kristine Williams, (336) 373-2556
PURPOSE:
The City of Greensboro Water Resources Department requests to apply for three FEMA funded grants and enter into grant agreements with the NC Department of Public Safety for an estimated amount totaling $469,000 to assist with the purchase of one property, and to assist with elevating two structures above the base flood elevation.
BACKGROUND:
The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides grants to states and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures after a Major Disaster Declaration. HMGP funds may be used to fund projects that will reduce or eliminate the losses from future disasters. Projects must provide a long-term solution to a problem, like elevation of a home to reduce the risk of flood damage as opposed to buying sandbags and pumps to fight the flood. In addition, a project’s potential savings must be more than the cost of implementing the project. Funds may be used to protect either public or private property, or to purchase property that has been subjected to, or is in danger of, repetitive damage.
The City worked with three properties after the major disaster declaration for Tropical Storm Michael to submit for a pre-application process, and all three have been selected to submit a full application. These properties include 1601 Roseland Street, which has applied for a grant to acquire and remove the structure, as well as properties at 1105 Latham Road and 1319 Latham Road. The properties on Latham Road have applied for a grant that would elevate the structures above the base flood elevation in order to help mitigate any future flood damage.
In the State’s response to the pre-application, 1601 Roseland Drive qualifies for up to $119,000, with the City providing a 25% match of $29,750. For 1105 Latham Road, up to $175,000 is available with the City providing 10%, or $17,500. 1319 Latham Road qualifies for up to $175,000, and if the full amount is awarded, no match from the City will be required.
BUDGET IMPACT:
Funding in the amount of approximately $47,250 will be needed to complete the projects, which is available in the Stormwater Capital Improvements Fund in account 506-7018-05.6018 A19042.
RECOMMENDATION/ACTION REQUESTED:
It is recommended by the Water Resources Department that City Council approve an applications and subsequent agreements for grants with the NC Department of Public Safety in an estimated amount totaling $469,000 to assist with the purchase and elevation of flood prone properties along North Buffalo Creek.