Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Steve Geller
Department: County Commission
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO APPROVE Agreement between Broward County and Marine Research Hub of South Florida, Inc. ("Marine Research Hub"), for a grant in the amount of $50,000 for coordination between, and promotion of, South Florida's oceanographic research institutions and oceanic sustainability ("Grant Agreement"), contingent upon obtaining matching grant funds from Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties; authorize Mayor to execute same; and authorize County Administrator to take the necessary administrative and budgetary actions. (Mayor Geller)
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Why Action is Necessary
Board approval is required to enter into the Grant Agreement.
What Action Accomplishes
Approves and authorizes the execution of the Grant Agreement.
Is this Action Goal Related
Yes
Previous Action Taken
Summary Explanation/Background
This item supports the Board's Value of "Encouraging investments in renewable energy, sustainable practices and environmental protection" and Goal 1: "Seek funding for, implement policies and pursue projects promoting, the use of alternative energies and sustainable practices."
The Marine Research Hub is seeking $50,000 each from Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties to promote sustainable private investment and growth of the knowledge-based ocean and water industries and to share information, collaborate on research and development initiatives, and jointly pursue oceanographic business development opportunities, known as "Blue Tech" or the "Blue Economy."
The Marine Research Hub was created in order to raise the visibility, reputation, and prestige of South Florida’s oceanographic research institutions and facilitate university research and the transfer of technology into marketable goods and services by fostering collaboration among research, education, business, and economic development organizations. This collaborative effort is intended to establish the South Florida region as a global leader in oceanographic research and will make a positive impact on the sustainability and health of the oceans.
This Grant Agreement provides for $50,000 to be provided to the Marine Research Hub for purposes of crafting a brand and a message for promoting oceanographic research institutions and oceanic sustainability. The effectiveness of the Grant Agreement is contingent upon the Marine Research Hub entering into agreements with Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties for grant funding matching Broward County's proposed grant funding. The Marine Research Hub will provide periodic reports to document that funds received are expended consistent with the terms of the Grant Agreement. Any unexpended Broward County funds at termination or expiration of this Grant Agreement must be reimbursed to Broward County.
This Grant Agreement contains the County's standard terms and conditions, with added restrictions on the use of County funds to be in furtherance of a public purpose and in direct support of the Marine Research Hub's proposed budget.
Source of Additional Information
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
$50,000, subject to Miami-Dade County and Palm Beach County contributing the same amount.