2011/08/31 Council Agenda Packet

8 Large Project Recommendations for 2011 Awards Applications for three neighborhood projects were received in 2011 for Neighborhood Large Project funding through the Office of Neighborhoods. The three projects submitted were: • Red Barn Community Farm—Lowell Civic Association ' Community Garden— South Forest Park Neighborhood Hibulb at Everett—Northwest Neighborhood A review team of city staff and a rating team of community members has read and evaluated the prepared materials. • City staff reviewed the applications with an eye to project feasibility and impact on city staff time commitments. • The community reviewers evaluated the proposals using a set of questions to determine strength of the proposal and likelihood for success, strong participation and long term viability. Based on these reviews, the community ratings and Office of Neighborhoods staff review,we would like to recommend award of contract and funds at this time to: ' Lowell Red Barn Community Farm project ' South Forest Park community garden project The community involvement in each of these projects, the Red Barn Community Farm, and South Forest Park community garden, and the pledged volunteer and business support are significant. These projects will leverage city funds to build community ties and enhance open space which benefit the immediate neighborhood and Everett as a whole. The third proposal, for Hibulb at Everett is being revised based on reviewer comments and we anticipate bringing it to Mayor and Council later this fall. Reviewers felt the project has merit but wanted more detailed information on the design plans and first phase of the project. We will bring that project forward for consideration when the revisions are completed. Summaries of the project proposals are attached. 39