CITY OF ORLANDO
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM

Items Types:
Economic Development 		For Meeting of:
November 17, 2014
District: 3,5,6 From:
Contract ID: Document Number:
Exhibits: Yes On File (City Clerk) : Yes Draft Only: No
Grant Received by City?: Yes
Subject:
Federal Promise Zone Initiative Application Submission and Memorandum of Understanding
Summary:
The Economic Development  Department, in partnership with several City Departments and various community partners, is requesting approval to submit a Promise Zone application as well as authorization for the Mayor to sign a preliminary Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

A 10 year  Federal Promise Zone Designation represents a unique opportunity to partner with the federal government to create jobs, leverage private investments, increase economic activity, expand educational opportunities and reduce violent crimes. Promise Zone communities receive unique benefits including five AmeriCorps VISTA members deployed to the Promise Zone, an assigned federal liaison to help leaders navigate federal programs, as well as preferences, in certain competitive federal programs, and access to technical assistance.  Moreover, businesses investing or involved in the hiring of residents in the Promise Zone area may be eligible to receive tax incentives.  A map of the subject area is attached and was selected  based on the average level of poverty exceeding 33%.  A copy of the application guidelines is also attached.  

A preliminary Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among implementing partners will also be executed and included with the application. The MOU describes the implementation partners' financial and resource commitments over a five year period.  A Memorandum of Understanding will be coordinated among the community Implementation Partners setting forth their respective roles and responsibilities.
Fiscal & Efficiency Data: N/A
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action:  Approving Promise Zone application and authorization for Mayor and City Clerk to execute future Memorandum of Understanding with Implementation Partners, subject to review and approval of the City Attorney's Office.
Agenda Item attachment(s) on file in the City Clerks Office.
Note: All agenda items must be in the City Clerk's office by Noon Friday, six(6) business days prior to the regular Monday City Council meeting.
Contact: Mary-Stewart Droege (mary-stewart.droege@cityoforlando.net)
Approved By:

Department Date and Time
Budget Outside Routing Approval 11/6/2014 5:43 PM
Grants 11/7/2014 9:56 AM
City Clerk 11/7/2014 10:01 AM
ATTACHMENTS:
Name: Description: Type:
Promise_Zone_Map_Attachment_A.pdf Promise Zone Map-Attachment A Backup Material
Promise_Zone_Guide-Attachment_B.pdf Promise Zone Application Guide-Appendix B Backup Material
"Enhance the quality of life in the City by delivering public services in a knowledgeable, responsive and financially responsible manner."