Item 21 - Approve Appropriation Adjustment for the State Coastal Conservancy Grant

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SANTIAGO PARK TRAIL AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLAN Page 4 of 6 The proposed improvement designs will build on the park’s existing components to encourage longevity for both the ecological and recreational uses. The installation of a pedestrian bridge and decomposed granite trail are durable solutions for the park’s currently deteriorating landscaping and trails. The habitat restoration equips the park with native plants that are resilient to drought and support local ecology. After invasive vegetation is removed, a more robust irrigation system will ensure the success and sustainability of newly planted native plants. 5. Project delivers multiple benefits and significant positive impact. The project seizes the unique opportunity to provide urban greening along one of very few remaining natural streams in Orange County. Coupled with the plethora of recreation amenities such as archery and lawn bowling, the restoration plans of the trail and enhanced features will provide a safe and welcoming space for all local community members to recreate freely. The project provides access to high quality greenspace for a city with several disadvantaged communities as defined by the California Department of Water Resources. PROJECT FINANCING Coastal Conservancy $400,000 Project Total $400,000 The anticipated source of Conservancy funding for this project is a fiscal year 2021-2022 appropriation to the Conservancy from the General Fund for the Santa Ana River Conservancy Program. (The Budget Act of 2021, Section 19.57 as added by SB 170, Chapter 240 , Statutes of 2021) This project is consistent with the goals of the Santa Ana River Conservancy program, as discussed in the Consistency with Conservancy’s Enabling Legislation section below. The Conservancy does not typically require matching funds or in -kind services, nor does it require documentation of expenditures from other funders or of in-kind services. Typical grant conditions require grantees to provide any funds needed to complete a project. CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S ENABLING LEGISLATION: The proposed project is consistent with the provisions of Chapter 4.6 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code, Sections 31170 to 31174 regarding the Santa Ana River Conservancy Program and funding for recreational opportunities and trails within the Santa Ana River region. The Santa Ana River region includes lands on either side of the Santa Ana River or its tributaries (Section 31172(c)). The proposed project is located adjacent to Santiago Creek, which is a tributary of the Santa Ana River. Section 31173 states that the Conservancy may undertake projects and award grants to public agencies to help achieve the goals of the Santa Ana River Conservancy Program, including recreational opportunities and trails, and wildlife habitat and species restoration, and enhancement (Section 31173(a)). Santa Ana River Conservancy Program goals also include public access to, enjoyment of, and enhancement of recreational and educational experience