Title
Allocation of CDBG Funds for Southern Pine Beetle Infested Tree Removal (NB)
Explanation
On April 30, 2001, the City Commission declared a Southern Pine Beetle infestation emergency. In response to this emergency situation, the City Commission allocated funds for a cost-share suppression program to assist property owners in the City to cut down and treat pine trees that are infested with Southern Pine Beetles. The cost to the property owner under this program is $110 per tree.
The Citizens Advisory Committee for Community Development (CACCD) was requested to set aside Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners in the City by paying for the $110 per tree cost-share expense. A similar program was established in 1995 in response to the 1994-95 Southern Pine Beetle outbreak in Gainesville and Alachua County.
Those who would be eligible for CDBG assistance are low- and moderate-income homeowners residing within the Gainesville City limits with pine trees on their property that are determined by the Florida Division of Forestry to be infested with Southern Pine Beetles. City staff will use current HUD income guidelines for determining income eligibility.
Fiscal Note
The amount requested for this program was $10,000, although the CACCD recommended $18,000. Funds are available in the FY 2001 CDBG contingency.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the allocation of up to $18,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for an Emergency Southern Pine Beetle Infestation Assistance Program ; and 2) authorize the City Manager or designee to amend the FY 2001 General Government budget and FY 2001 CDBG Annual Action Plan as necessary to include this program.