Title
Regional Collaboration Program Grant - Regional Research Coordinator
Proposed Motion(s)
1. That Council direct Administration to participate and submit a Regional Collaboration Program (RCP) Grant application for the development of a Regional Research Coordinator.
2. That Council direct Administration to proceed in approaching and partnering with ten (10) different municipalities and community organizations within these municipalities who will utilize this service.
3. That Council designate Administration as the project lead for the Regional Collaboration Program Grant application for the purposes of receiving, administering, allocating, reporting and accounting for the grant and funds on behalf of the partners.
Body
Administration Recommendation(s)
Administration supports the Proposed Motions.
Purpose
A Regional Grant Coordinator would be a resource for entities within and adjacent to Parkland County; allowing them to better understand their eligibility for grants from various organizations.
Summary
Over the years, Parkland County has collaborated with adjacent municipalities and organizations. Many of these entities are eligible for grant funding. In order to receive grant funding these entities have to identify grants that they are eligible for and apply for these grants. Currently each entity is completing this work in isolation of the others. This creates redundancies in researching grants. It also restricts the ability of smaller entities to apply for grant funding as they may not have the resources necessary to conduct a thorough review of all grant funding sources that they are eligible for. As a result, these entities may miss out on potential funding sources. Having access to a Regional Research Coordinator would reduce redundancies and allow entities to identify more potential funding sources to apply for. The direct result of this is an increase in services provided to citizens at a reduced cost.
Parkland County is prepared to act as the project lead for the grant application, and provide the necessary administration for the Regional Research Coordinator role.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications (As Required)
Economic Development
Goal #1 Strategy #2 Parkland County will investigate and pursue all funding sources and explore potential partnerships.
Governance
Goal #2 Strategy #1 Parkland County will foster relationships with municipal neighbors and associations.
Goal #2 Strategy #2 Parkland County will actively seek out joint project opportunities that will benefit our communities.
Financial Impact:
Cost:
The Regional Collaboration Grant would cover all costs associated with the Regional Research Coordinator.
Source of Funding:
The Regional Collaboration Program will provide $28.8 million for municipal (collaborative) projects in 2013 with a maximum of $250,000 per project. There is no prerequisite for municipal funding. Parkland County will prepare and submit an application for this grant on behalf of the regional partners and participating municipalities.
Other