Recommend approval to authorize the City Manager to execute a grant award agreement with the Southeast Sustainable Communities Fund (SSCF). This agreement will allow the City to begin a two-year pilot project using underutilized Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) lots as pilot locations for tree nurseries and serve to reduce stormwater impacts in low-lying, low-income neighborhoods.

The award amount of $233,244.00 will support the City's development and implementation of a pilot project to use vacant, underutilized FEMA lots as tree nurseries that will support future tree plantings and offset the City's future cost of tree purchases.  Over time, the intent is to realize a net-positive budget impact.  The grant will allow for up to three pilot projects on FEMA lot locations in low-lying, low-income neighborhoods.  It will integrate an arborist and green infrastructure workforce training component for community residents, and support City strategic priorities including economic strength, flood reduction, and sustainable neighborhoods.

The City's application was successful because it demonstrated the City's ability to:

1. Mitigate and/or adapt to climate change through sustainable energy or water initiatives
2. Foster equity and inclusiveness
3. Leverage community partnerships
4. Strengthen and support government priorities or policies
5. Implement a scalable program

Approval