The Economic Development Department, in partnership with several City Departments and various community partners, is requesting approval to:

1. Submit a third round Promise Zone application, and

2. Authorize 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, increase economic activity, improve community health, expand educational opportunities and affordable housing as well as reduce violent crime.

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 for certain competitive federal programs and technical assistance. In addition, businesses investing or involved in the hiring of residents in the Promise Zone area may be eligible to receive tax incentives.

The estimated 10 square mile Promise Zone area (WOPZ-West Orlando Promise Zone) is generally located north of L.B. McLeod Road, south of W. Colonial Drive, east of N. Pine Hills Road and west of I-4. A map of the subject area is attached. The  subject area was selected based on the average level of poverty exceeding 32.5%. 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 multi-year year period. A Memorandum of Understanding will be coordinated among the Community Implementation Partners setting forth their respective roles and responsibilities.