MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Request for Funding INSTRUCTION FORM DMR Form TTF-1

Transcription

1 MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Request for Funding INSTRUCTION FORM DMR Form TTF-1 Application Type Check Public Access Project or Managed Project 1. Title of Project Provide exact name of proposed project. If the proposed project has been funded previously, indicate the phase (I, II, III, etc.). 1.1 Location of Project Provide the name of the County in which the proposed project is located. 2. Requesting Agency Provide the name of the agency, city, county or group which is requesting funding 2.1 Date of Request Provide the date of this request for funding 3. Funding Requested Provide the total dollar amount of funds requested from the Tidelands Trust Fund. 3.1 Matching Funds Provide the total dollar amount of funds to be expended on this project from other sources. Funds previously received through the Tidelands Trust Fund program are not to be considered matching funds. 3.2 Source of Matching Funds Indicate the name of the source providing the matching funds. 3.3 Total Project Cost Insert the name of the source providing the matching funds. 4. Requesting Agency Representative Provide the name of the decision-maker who has responsibility for this project. 4.1 Phone Provide the phone number of the Requesting Agency Representative identified in # Fax Provide the fax number of the Requesting Agency Representative identified in # Address Provide the address and the address of the Requesting Agency Representative identified in # Project Manager Provide the name of the individual who will manage this project until completion. 5.1 Phone Provide the phone number of the Project Manager in # Fax Provide the fax number of the Project Manager. 5.3 Address Provide the address and address of the Project Manager. 1

2 MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Request for Funding INSTRUCTION FORM DMR Form TTF-1 6. Applicant Priority If your organization is submitting more than one Request for Funding application please indicate the organization's priority of this project in relation to the other projects the organization is submitting. 7. Project Description/Overview Provide a brief summary description of the proposed project. TTF-2 should be used for more detailed description of proposed project. 8. Project Goals List the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 9. Project Benefits List the anticipated benefits which will result from the proposed project. 10. Summary of Project Tasks Summarize in a list the tasks which will be required to complete the proposed project. 11. Project Timetable/Milestones Provide anticipated dates for completion of individual project tasks identified in # Previous Funding Indicate the fiscal year(s) in which this project has previously been funded through Tidelands Trust Fund. Write in "N/A" if not applicable. 12. Categorize Benefits Categorize the anticipated benefits resulting from the project listed in # 9. More than one category may be applicable. 13. Project Category Check the category/categories that apply to the project. 14. Other Funding Indicate and identify other sources of state/federal funding for which this project may be eligible. 15. Status of A&E Plans Check one from Group 1 and one from Group 2. If not applicable, write in "N/A" 16. Constituency Groups Identify any special interest groups which will be served by this project. 17. Service Provided to Consistency Groups 18. Enhancement of Water- Dependent Activity Identify the service that will be provided to the special interest groups that were identified in # 16. If this project will enhance any existing or planned activity that is water-based or dependent upon water, identify the activity. 19. Project Timing Indicate whether this project is a long-term or short-term priority, as characterized by the DMR. 2

3 MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Request for Funding INSTRUCTION FORM DMR Form TTF MCP Goals/Objectives Indicate how this project meets the goals and objectives of the Mississippi Coastal Program. 21. Project Coordination If this project will coordinate with other existing or planned projects, Identify the projects. 22. Wetlands Impacts If this project will involve dredging or filling coastal wetlands, indicate the acreage of wetlands to be impacted. 23. Project Schematics Attach any drawings or schematics which have been prepared for this project. 24. Signature The individual indicated in #4 as the Requested Agency Representative should sign this application. Please sign in blue ink. 3

4 IMPORTANT NOTICE Entities submitting an application packet should provide the Department of Marine Resources with one original application and one copy. Please include picture of project site. Those entities submitting more than one Request for Funding application should prioritize their requests due to limitations in funding. Application packets should not exceed a total of six (6) pages in length (This includes the three page application form and 1 page summary). Keep TTF-1 to two page format. TTF-2 should be used for additional application detail and other required information. Use the front side of white, letter size (8.5 x 11) paper only. Do not staple or bind any portion of the application being submitted. All proposals must be received at the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources office located at 1141 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Mississippi by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, Thank you for your cooperation. 4

5 MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Mississippi Codes and Directives Each political subdivision receiving Tidelands funds is responsible for complying with Section and Section , Mississippi Code of 1972: Public Trust Tidelands Fund; distribution of funds derived from lease rentals of tidelands and submerged lands; disbursement of funds appropriated as separate line items in appropriation bill. 1) There is created in the State Treasury a special fund to be known as the "Public Trust Tidelands Fund." The fund shall be administered by the Secretary of State as trustee. 2) Any funds derived from lease rentals of tidelands and submerged lands, except those funds derived from mineral leases, or funds previously specifically designated to be applied to other agencies, shall be transferred to the special fund. However, funds derived from lease rentals may be used to cover the administrative cost incurred by the Secretary of State. Any remaining funds derived from lease rentals shall be disbursed pro rata to the local taxing authorities for the replacement of lost ad valorem taxes, if any. Then, any remaining funds shall be disbursed to the commission for new and extra programs of tidelands management, such as conservation, reclamation, preservation, acquisition, education or the enhancement of public access to the public trust tidelands or public improvement projects as they relate to those lands. 3) Any funds that are appropriated as separate line items in an appropriation bill for tideland programs or projects authorized under this section for political subdivisions or other agencies shall be disbursed as provided in this subsection. a) The Department of Marine Resources shall make progress payments in installments based on the work completed and material used in the performance of a tidelands project only after receiving written verification from the political subdivision or agency. The political subdivision or agency shall submit verification of the work completed or materials in such detail and form that the department may require. b) The Department of Marine Resources shall make funds available for the purpose of using such funds as a match or leverage for federal or other funds that are available for the designated tidelands project. Sources: Laws, 1989, ch. 495, 6; Laws, 1994, ch. 578, 53; Laws, 2002, ch. 474, 1, eff from and after passage (approved Mar. 27, 2002.) Public Trust Tidelands Assessments Fund; purpose of fund; distribution of funds derived from certain assessments on gaming licensees; disbursement of funds appropriated as separate line items in an appropriation bill. 1) There is created in the State Treasury a special fund to be known as the "Public Trust Tidelands Assessments Fund." The purpose of the fund is to ensure that monies derived from the public trust tidelands assessments shall be used for the benefit of preserving and protecting the tidelands and submerged lands found within the three (3) most southern counties of the state. One (1) specific purpose of the fund is to ensure that the annual payment made by the state for the purchase of Deer Island shall continue uninterrupted until the purchase transaction is completed. The fund shall be administered by the Secretary of State, as trustee. None of the funds that are in the special fund or that are required to be deposited into the special fund shall be transferred, diverted or in any other manner expended or used for any purpose other than those purposes specified in this section. 2) a) Any funds derived from assessments made pursuant to Section (4) (c) shall be deposited into the special fund. b) Funds paid pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection may be appropriated by the Legislature in an amount necessary to cover the administrative cost incurred by the Mississippi Commission on Marine Resources. Any remaining funds shall be disbursed by the commission for new and extra programs of tidelands management, such as conservation, reclamation, preservation, acquisition, education or the enhancement of public access to the public trust tidelands or public improvement projects as they relate to those lands. 5

6 MISSISSIPPI TIDELANDS TRUST FUND PROGRAM Mississippi Codes and Directives 3) Any funds that are appropriated as separate line items in an appropriation bill for tideland programs or projects authorized under this section for political subdivisions or other agencies shall be disbursed as provided in this subsection. a) The Department of Marine Resources shall make progress payments in installments based on the work completed and material used in the performance of a tidelands project only after receiving written verification from the political subdivision or agency. The political subdivision or agency shall submit verification of the work completed or materials in such detail and form that the department may require. b) The Department of Marine Resources shall make funds available for the purpose of using such funds as a match or leverage for federal or other funds that are available for the designated tidelands project. Sources: Laws, 2005, 5th Ex Sess, ch. 15, 2, eff from and after passage (approved Oct. 17, 2005.) Directives In addition to compliance with the above provisions, political subdivisions awarded funding will also be subject to an audit by the State Auditor. All awarded applicants will agree to follow all State of Mississippi purchasing and procurement policies. Also, detailed reports and copies of invoices on project expenditures must be submitted to the Department of Marine Resources for disbursement of approved funds. It is the intention of the Legislature that any political subdivision seeking to qualify for tidelands funds for the subsequent fiscal year shall submit a proposal to the Department of Marine Resources no later than July 1. All such proposals will be reviewed and evaluated by the Department of Marine Resources in accordance with department plans and procedures. Any project affecting wetlands and/or navigable waters must comply with the Mississippi Coastal Program and the U.S. Coastal Zone Management Act by seeking authorization through the wetlands permitting process. This process may appear daunting and complicated, but can be easily navigated by taking the right steps. All wetlands impacts within Mississippi s three coastal counties (Hancock, Harrison and Jackson) must be authorized by the Department of Marine Resources (DMR), the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE). While all three agencies are involved with the application process, the application should be submitted to DMR who will facilitate coordination among the appropriate agencies. The key to a successful and speedy permit is communication. Contact DMR early in the process to begin coordination with all appropriate agencies 6

7 Project Selection Criteria (Public Access Projects) The DMR will initially determine whether a submitted proposal is eligible and whether the application contains all required information. After this initial screening, the DMR will use the following criteria to rate and rank proposals received in response to the notice of funding availability and proposal guidelines. The maximum number of points is (100) one hundred. Each criterion is assigned a weighted percent. The weighted percentage creates a distinction between the different criteria and their level of importance within the application. Each proposal will be judged on its own merits using the following criteria. The criteria and maximum weighted points for each criterion are provided below: Explanation of Categories Categories Weighted Percentage Need 20% Performance Competence 10% Relevance 30% Technical Approach 15% Linkages 10% Budget 15% Need What specifically is the need or problem being addressed? Why is the project needed locally, regionally, or statewide? What are the current assets or current inadequacies/gaps? Is the need justified with data (scientific, social or demographic data)? How will the coastal community and state benefit? Performance Competence The likelihood of project success, based on applicant s resources and personnel, as well as past history with similar projects Relevance Does the project meet the goals and objectives of the Tidelands Trust Fund Program as related to the enhancement of Public Access? Is this project consistent with the Mississippi Coastal Program? What are the deliverables of the project and how will they enhance Coastal Management Resources or management issues? Technical Approach To what level has all necessary engineering and other planning/specifications requirements been supplied in conjunction with this application. Is this project eligible for permitting? Is this project currently permitted? Is the timeframe for completion of the project included? Linkages Does this project establish connections to existing or planned projects, activities or needs of the overall community as they relate to Public Trust Tidelands? Does the project enhance or support participation in boating, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, or other outdoor recreational activities? Does the project enhance access to coastal ecosystems and view sheds? Does the project enhance or support educational activities? What is the proximity of this project to other tidelands projects or public access projects? 7

8 Project Selection Criteria (Public Access Projects) Budget Is the budget complete and appropriate for the scale of the project? What resources are needed to successfully carry out and manage the project? Does it identify any cost savings, e.g., in-kind services or volunteer labor? Does it show total cost, as well as the amount being requested? Does it provide itemized breakdown associated with major activities? Is there a close match-up between the scope of work and budget request? Does it mention how long term maintenance will be funded? 8

9 Guidelines for Public Access Projects The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers its residents and tourists beautiful beaches, casinos, nature-based activities and, of course, great food. The water-dependent seafood industry continues to be a treasured and invaluable contributor to Mississippi's economy, culture and quality of life. In the past decade, there have been significant losses to the industry because of natural and man-made disasters, high fuel costs and foreign competition. Public access projects are needed to help restore the Coast's vital working waterfronts. This will increase the number of jobs and bring in more tourists, thus contributing more to the local and state economy. Examples of these projects include safe dockage for commercial boats, ice and fuel access; public seafood markets to access the superior local harvest and associated space for seafood festivals to celebrate community piers. The following are some guidelines for public access projects from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources. Please consider these factors when designing your project: * Salt marsh is essential habitat for seafood and sport fish species. Nearly 25 percent of the salt marsh in the Mississippi Sound has been lost since Where possible, public access projects should use living shorelines instead of or in concert with hard substrate to avoid loss of habitat. Appropriate projects can encourage restoration of living shorelines to enhance habitat and provide access to the public. Information on living shoreline alternatives is available through MDMR's Coastal Ecology Office. * Invasive plants should not be used in public access projects. These plants crowd out native plants and have a negative impact on natural ecosystems. The MDMR encourages the use of native plants in landscaping projects. Existing native plant communities can be enhanced by removing invasive species. To identify invasive and native plants, contact MDMR at * The South Mississippi Planning and Development District has a complete list of public access projects in the three coastal counties, including photos. Please review them by going to the following link: This list will help you in several ways: You can find out if the project you are proposing on was completed previously and if your project will enhance or distract from an existing one. You can also get ideas for other projects and ways to improve them. * Consider placing an item at the site of the project that contains a Mississippi Department of Marine Resources logo, such as a trash or marine recyclable receptacle. This will show the public that the city and/or county are working with its state partners to improve and enhance their experience along the coastal waterways. 9

10 Project Selection Criteria (Management Projects) The DMR will initially determine whether a submitted proposal is eligible and whether the application contains all required information. After this initial screening, the DMR will use the following criteria to rate and rank proposals received in response to the notice of funding availability and proposal guidelines. The maximum number of points is (100) one hundred. Each criterion is assigned a weighted percent. The weighted percentage creates a distinction between the different criteria and their level of importance within the application. Each proposal will be judged on its own merits using the following criteria. The criteria and maximum weighted points for each criterion are provided below: Explanation of Categories 10 Categories Weighted Percentage Merit 20% Performance Competence 10% Relevance 30% Technical Approach 15% Linkages 10% Budget 15% Merit Intrinsic scientific value of the proposed work and the likelihood that it will lead to fundamental advancement or that it will have substantial beneficial impact on the marine resources of the state. Performance Competence The capability of the investigator and collaborators to complete the proposed work as evidenced by past research accomplishments, previous cooperative work, timely communication, and sharing of findings, data and other research projects. Relevance Does the project focus on one of the topics of coastal/marine resources and management issues and meet the goals of the Tidelands Trust Fund Program? Is the project consistent with the Mississippi Coastal Program? What are the deliverables of the project and how will they enhance Coastal Resources or management issues. Technical Approach Availability of focused objectives and complete, but efficient strategy for making measurements and observations in support of the objectives. The approach is sound and logically planned throughout the cycle of the proposed work. Linkages Connections to existing or planned studies, or demonstrated cooperative arrangements to provide or use data or other research results towards meeting the mission and programs of the Department of Marine Resources. Does the project enhance or support participation in boating, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, or other outdoor recreational activities? Does the project enhance access to coastal ecosystems and view sheds? Does the project enhance or support educational activities? Budget Is the budget complete and appropriate for the scale of the project? What resources are needed to successfully carry out and manage the project? Does it identify any cost savings, e.g. in-kind services or volunteer labor? Does it show total cost, as well as the amount being requested? Does it provide itemized breakdown associated with major activities? Is there a close match-up between the scope of work and budget request? Does it mention how long term maintenance will be funded?