Casselberry

Casselberry

Casselberry Wins Brownfields Grant from the U.S. EPA

In October of 2009, the City submitted a package to the US EPA Brownfields Program for a community-wide assessment grant requesting federal funds in an amount of $400,000 (contamination testing of $200,000 – hazardous substances & $200,000 – petroleum). In April 2010, the City was awarded two community-wide assessment grants! These grants will support the City’s efforts to assess and remediate environmental contamination throughout the City in an effort to enhance human health, the environment, and the economic vitality of the area.  There were specific criteria that needed to be met to be eligible for these grants such as: Community Need, Project Description and Feasibility of Success, Community Engagement and Partnerships, and Project Benefits. The City of Casselberry was fortunate to have the support of its community members while applying for this grant. Numerous pledges of assistance were received by community based organizations having pledged supportive roles in the City’s program. They provided written letters of support expressing these sentiments. The City proposed in its submittal a three year timeframe in which to complete the assessment portion of its Brownfields program.

On May 5, 2010, all Region 4 awardees participated in a Brownfields Application and Work Plan Review Webinar. Forms required such as application for federal assistance, budgeting information, assurance: non-construction programs, certification regarding lobbying, narrative work plans, and key contacts were discussed in detail. A project officer from the U.S. EPA will be assigned to the City’s grant and be their point of contact for questions and assistance.

By June 1st of this year, the City needs to have all required forms and a work plan submitted to the U.S. EPA. This work plan will show a budget and activities proposed to be completed within the next three years. This work plan may be adjusted by 10% as the environmental work gets underway. If an adjustment above 10% is needed, it has to go to U.S. EPA for review and approval.

A complete inventory of regulatory sites within the City will be conducted, funneled down by level of perceived constraint, as well as redevelopment and job growth potential.

The Project Officer from the U.S. EPA will contact City staff to set-up an initial meeting. Upon doing so, the City will host a “kick off” meeting to introduce the Project Officer from the United States Environmental Protection Agency to the community as well as establish a strong rapport with them. It is a great benefit to have community support at this meeting.

This grant will greatly assist the City’s efforts with assessing and remediating environmental contamination throughout the City.  For more information, contact Pamela K. Lynch, Economic Development Coordinator, City of Casselberry, (407) 262-7700 Ext. 1107 or plynch@casselberry.org