2016-05-18 Grant Committee Agenda PacketCalifornia Public Records Act ("PRA"): In compliance with the PRA, the documents pertaining to agenda
items, including attachments, which are presented to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee in open
session are available for public inspection. They may be inspected during regular business hours in the City
Clerk's Office at Vernon City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, California 90058, and on the City’s website
at www.cityofvernon.org. No prior appointment is required.
Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”): In compliance with the ADA, if you need special assistance to
participate in a meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (323) 583-8811. Notification of at least 48
hours prior to the meeting or time when services are needed will assist the City staff in assuring that reasonable
arrangements can be made to provide accessibility to the meeting or service.
Agenda
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund
Grant Committee Meeting
May 18, 2016, 10:00 a.m.
Council Chamber
City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, California 90058
Michael Gavina, Chairperson
Jessica Maes, Vice Chairperson
Lawrence Cooper, Committee Member
William Davis, Committee Member
Juliet Goff, Committee Member
Steve Veres, Committee Member
Rafael Gonzalez, Committee Member
CALL TO ORDER & FLAG SALUTE
CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENT - At this time the public is encouraged to address the Grant Committee on any matter
that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Grant Committee. The public will also be given a chance to
comment on matters which are on the posted agenda during deliberation on those specific matters.
GRANT AWARDING
1. Award of Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket IV Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grants
Recommendation:
A. Find that the award of the grants proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that
CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
May 18, 2016
Page 2 of 3
B. Award Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket IV grants totaling $187,000 to the four applicants identified
below at the amounts recommended:
Applicant
Original
Amount
Requested
Amount
Recommended
Proposed
Term
CicLAvia $50,000 $40,000 1 year
LA Family Housing $150,000/2 years $75,000 1 year
Big Citizen HUB $50,000 $50,000 1 year
Coalicion de Latinos
Americanos (CODELA)
$235,000/
2 years $22,000 1 year
NEW BUSINESS
2. Approval and Adoption of the Proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants Program
Recommendation:
A. Find that approval of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants program proposed in this
staff report is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) review, because it is
a continuing administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the
environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section
15378.
B. Approve and adopt the proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants program.
DISCUSSION ITEM (POSSIBLE DIRECTIVES TO STAFF)
3. Discussion Regarding Development of a Scholarship Fund
Recommendation:
A. Hold a discussion regarding the development of a scholarship fund
B. Authorization to form a subcommittee to further consider and possibly develop a scholarship fund
ORAL REPORTS
4. Update on proposed funding ratio and priority areas for funding.
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
May 18, 2016
Page 3 of 3
5. Summary of Interim Grant Report for fiscal year 2014/2015 and 2015/2016.
6. Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff.
7. Next regular meeting: August 18, 2016
ADJOURNMENT
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that the foregoing agenda was
posted on the bulletin board at the main entrance of the City of Vernon City Hall, located at 4305 Santa Fe Avenue,
Vernon, California, and on the City’s website, not less than 15 days prior to the meeting set forth on this agenda.
Dated this 3rd day of May 2016.
By: ________________________________
Maria E. Ayala, Secretary
RECEiVttD
MAY o 3 2016
C「YOLERrSOFRCE STAFF REPORT
CITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
May 18,2016
Honorable Members of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee
Carlos Fandino, Executive Director C+ S'3'lb
Originator: Lilia Hernandez, Executive Assistant to the City Administrator
Award of Fiscal Year 201512016 Docket IV Vernon CommUNITY Fund
Grants
Recommendation
A. Find that the award of the grants proposed in this staff report is exempt under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(bX3),
the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an etTect on the
environment.
B. Award Fiscal Year 201512016 Docket IV grants totaling $187,000 to the four applicants
identified below at the amounts recommended:
Applicant
Original
Amount
Requested
Amount
Recommended
Proposed
Term
CicLAvia $50,000 $40,000 I year
LA Family Housing $ 150,000/2 years $75,000 I year
Big Citizen HUB $50.000 $50,000 I year
Coalicion de Latinos
Americanos (CODELA)
$235,000/
2 vcars $22,000 I year
Backeround
As one of the key elements of the City's good govemance reforms, the City Council created the
Vernon CommUNITY Fund ("VCF") to provide grants to charitable and govemmental entities
tbr projects and programs that benefit those residing and working in Vernon. Given the
Page I of4
exclusively industrial nature of Vernon, the City Council determined that the VCF was in the
best interest of the City and its residents, businesses, and workers.
On September l,2013, the City retained the services of Jemmott Rollins Group, Inc. ("JRG") to
provide consultation, guidance, research and specialized administrative support services to the
City Administrator and City staff related to the VCF. JRG has extensive experience in non-profit
grant-making and grants management and specialized knowledge of ethics principles goveming
the grant-making process.
On February 4,2014, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. l2l8 to establish the Vernon
CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee ("Grant Committee") and provide the basic guidelines and
operational procedures for said Committee and its otficers, including those related to the
allocation of funds and the processes for reviewing and ranking applications and awarding
grants.
Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Fundine
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Section2.164, the City Council appropriated $1,000,000 to
the VCF for fiscal year 2015-2016. The Grant Committee is required to allocate funds in
accordance with the tbllowing tbrmula:
l) No less than25Yo of funds available in any tiscal year shall be awarded to proposals to
expend funds on capital projects with a projected useful life of l0 years or more, or
otherwise reserve such funds fbr such projects to be awarded in the future.
2) The remainder of available funds in any fiscal year may be awarded to proposals to
expend funds on direct services. No single grant of this type shall be in an amount less
than $5,000 or more than $250,000.
a) The Grant Committee may award multi-year grants. For such grants, all funds
necessary to fund the entire grant must be available to the Committee in the year
of the award. The total amount of any grant may not exceed $250,000, regardless
of the number of years over which the grant funds are to be spent. The Grant
Committee shall reserve sufticient funds to ensure that the grant can be fully
funded without the appropriation of additional City funds in future years.
In consideration of the minimum required set aside for capital projects, the total maximum
amount of grant funds available for award to proposals for direct services during Fiscal Year
201512016 is $750,000. As such, JRG and City staff recommend the Grant Committee award
approximately $ 187,500 in grants for direct services at each of fbur quarterly meetings proposed
to occur this fiscal year, including this meeting. This will assure the availability of resources
throughout the year and a level playing tield for applicants.
Criteria for Ranking Grant Proposals
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.166, no grant shall be awarded unless doing so
serves a municipal purpose of the City, and the Executive Director and Grant Committee must
rank all proposals from eligible applicants using the following factors:
Page2 of 4
I ) The extent to which the funds will promote the health, safety, and welfare of persons
residing or working within the Vemon Area.
2) The benefit anticipated to accrue to the Vernon Area.
3) The extent to which the public will appreciate that the benetjts of the proposed actions
were a direct result of the funding provided by the City of Vernon.
4) Evidence that the firnds will be used by an organization with sufficient capacity to do the
work, and will be used effectively and without inefficiencies, waste or fiaud.
5) For proposals fbr capital projects, the ability and commitment to fund the maintenance
and repair of the project over the long term.
FY 2015/2016 Docket IV Grant Applications
Docket IV and 201512016 year to date intbrmation is summarized in the Grant Review
Committee Transmittal Report attached hereto as Attachment l.
As previously indicated, the fourth grant docket for the VCF contains four applications tbr
review, deliberation, and award by the Grant Committee. All applicants meet the eligibility
requirements set forth in Section 2.165 of the Vemon Municipal Code and all applications were
thoroughly vetted by JRG and City staff using the aforementioned ranking criteria.
Based on the application criteria, JRG's due diligence tindings, and the amount of funding
available, the total amount of grant funding recommended tbr Fiscal Year 201 512016 Docket IV
is $ 187,000.
JRG statf has prepared a written summary for each grant application describing its merits and
potential risks, which is attached hereto as Attachment 2. These materials and recommendations
are to be used only as guiding documents for the Grant Committee's deliberation. The Grant
Committee is expected to debate the content of each application at its May 18,2016 meeting.
The full applications are publicly available and can be accessed online at
https://jemmottrollinsgrouo.fluidreview.com or at the City Clerk's Office at Vernon City Hall.
Grant Agreement
Upon award of grants by the Grant Committee, each grant recipient shall be required to execute a
Grant Agreement in substantially the same form as attached hereto as Attachment 3. The Grant
Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of the grant, including the amount and purpose(s)
of the grant, written reporting requirements, the return of any unused portion, and requirements
respecting the use of the VCF logo.
Fiscal Impact
The Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket IV total recommended grant award amount of $187,000 is
included in the 201512016 City Budget and is within the recommended quarterly allocation of
approximately $ I 87,500 for this fiscal year.
Page 3 of4
Attachment(Sゝ
1.Grant Rcview Comnnittcc Transmittal Report
2.FY 2015/2016 Docket IV Grant Application SummaHcs
3. Follll Grant Agrcemcnt
Page 4 of4
Attachment I
Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report
Grant Review Committee
Transmittal Report
May 2015
Current DocketiV FY15‐16
of Recommended
Comme nts/Observationso Three of the four grant recommendations are for project/program grants.
o Geographic spread throughout VCF regiono Largest grant is for services and housing for homeless families
Docket
App:lcation Pipe:ine(As of Mav 2016
Number of Pending Applications
Attachment 2
FY 2015/2016]Docket IV
Grant Application Sunllnaries
GRANT RECOMMENDAT10N FORM
General Applicantinformation
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Proposal Details
Spec1lc by grant request (if applicable)
Age Range:a∥Famlly Type:
Gender: ull Military Status: all
Race′Ethndty型 Sexual Orientation:
Economic Status:Oher←ped″):型
cOstrBenefit
Wilh a consorvative attendanco estimate of 50.000 participants, the VCF would bo making an investment of
$1 .2slper person. Tho bonofil croated on the day of the event can bo moasured in the roduction in reduced
air pollution, incroased physical activity by participants, and and increasod rotail sales in tho region.
Beneficiaries and/o, l-Local retail and local business have shown a 10% bump in sales on the day
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landscape: lheld.
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Staff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ nroiutRs Form 990 (dated:
/ Organizational Budget
/ Proposal Budget
131 r 2013 )
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(if no particular project is specified, please note General Operating Support in this area)
This particular grant request is to support CicLAvia: Southeast Cities in May 20'16. This car-free event will take
place over a lO-mile route, where participants can walk, skate, jog, roll, or ride their bikes on quiet streets
without the noise and pollution from motor vehicles. The route has been mapped out to go through Huntington
Park, South Gate, Lynwood, Florence/Firestone, Walnut Park and Watts, with participants coming from all over
Southern California. This is the first CiclAvia to take place in Southeast Los Angeles. lt is anticipated that
50,000 people will participate in this upcoming event.
There are significant costs associated with this event, including traffic management, insurance, program
activities, signage and route hub activation, volunteer trainang, slaff costs, and law enforcemenusecurity.
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
CiclAvia: Southeast Cities most closely aligns with the following VCF goals:
To encourage and inspire positive social devolopment in Vernon and neighboring communities;
To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior residents in V€rnon and the surrounding areas;
To improve the built environment of Vernon and nearby communities
ln terms of eligibility criteria, this project is particularly strong in the following areas:
Garner appreciation from the public and recognize th€ contribution from the City of Vernon:
Demonstrate a measurable benefit to residents of Vernon and surrounding areas;
Promote the health, safety and welfare of persons residing or working within the designated geographic areas.
What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
The most recent open streets events include:
-Ciclavia: The Valley (March 2016)
-Ciclavia: Heart of LA (October 2015)
Ciclavia: Culver City Meets Venice (August 2015)
CicLAvia: Pasadena (May 2015)
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
The foreseeable challenges with this grant are the recurring ones that the organization has learned from
in their previous 5 years of producing open streets events. The scale of the event, the nature of the
required logistics, and general coordination are challenging in producing an interactive event for upwards
of 100,000 people. Moreover, the Southeast Cities region poses challenges because of the number of
separate municipalities and public entities that need to be coordinated along this particular route.
It is important to note that several municipalities in the Southeast have already expressed support for the
event and have been involved from the beginning in the planning of the upcoming CiclAvia.
Funding Rocommendation
_ Yes
Fund this proposal?
No Recommended Amount: l$4o.ooo
Suggested revision(s) to proposal/fund amounl, if applicable:
Because of the timing of the event, the recommendation is to allocate the grant funding for traffic
management, signage, and event staff, and other costs associated with the day of the event, instead
of early preparation and pre-planning, as noted in their original grant request.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Date: 4 / 9 ′ 2016
GRANT RECOMMENDATION FOnII
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Proposal Details
Specinc by grant (if applacable
Age Rangei
Gender n′
What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
Founded in 1983, LAFH not only owns and operates 22 housing complexes, it also has entered into
master leases with multiple private landlords to provide housing placement at a number of scattered
sites throughout Los Angeles. CCC was opened in '1988, and has served as temporary housing for
thousands of people since then.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
The primary challenge for this nonprofit organization is the lack of quality affordable housing in the Los
Angeles region. lt is not uncommon for LAFH clients to have trouble finding a landlord who will accept
a voucher for subsrdized housing, even after the long wait to apply for and be approved for a housing
subsidy.
Fund this proposal?
_ Yes
No
Suggested revision(s) to proposal/fund amount, if applicable:
A 'l-year grant is being recommended.
Staff reviewerl Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:DaO°4 /10/,
Recommended Amount. l$75,000i 1 year
GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM
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Proposal Details
Specific population(s) targeted by grant request (if applicable)
Age Rangei
Gender: a∥
Students‐middle and high school allFamrly lype: _
Military Status: all
Race/Ehndty型 SexualOrientation: all
Economic Status: a∥Other (specify):
CosUBenefit:
The cost per studentin the Big Ctizen HUB program is S2,800 Wlth a S50,000 grant,the VCF
would be covering the costs of about 18 students from the Vernon CommUN!TY fund area
Beneficiaries and/or
potential impact on the
non-profi Ugovern mental
landscape:
Leadership training and skills building as an area for philanthropic investment is growing
in terms of the understanding of its importance. Encouraging and supporting youth
leaders to play an active role in their communities is a key strategy for improving overall
life outcomes in the areas of educational attainment, community safety, civic
engagement, and community development.
Staff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ nroivtns Form 990 (dated: 06 / 30 t 2015
\
{ Organizational Budget
/ eroposal Budget
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(if no particular project is specified, please note General Operating Support in this area)
Funds are being requested to support participation of youth from the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund area. Eased on enrollment figures from 20't 5, it is
anticipated thaGppioximately 54 students from throughout the VCF area would be participating in the program, which has a duration ol9 - 12
weeks, depending upon the age level ofthe students. The workshops are divided into 3-part modules, where students explore pressing local issues
such as homelesiness, climat,e change, and transportation. Learning consists of research, service projects, interviewing practitioners and experts,
and team projects to develop ideas and presentations about how to address these issues. Parents are required to commit to supporting consistent
student atiendance. lt is important to note that the vision of this program is one that serves young people from all over the region, and from all
different economic backgrounds, as promoting civic engagement is important for all residents in the region.
Current partnerships with VCF area organizations include: Aspire Schools: Camino Nuevo Schools: Guadalupe Homeless Project, and the Promesa
Boyle Heights coaiition. Additional schools where students are enrolled are primarily in Boyle Heights, but the partnership with Aspire Schools will
facllitate recruitment from schools in Huntington Park, Maywood, and other independent cities in Southeast. Overall program demographics include:
73% female; 27o/omale;76% Latino; 17% Asian; 3% African-American: 3% Caucasian: 1% multiracial.
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
Big Citizen HUB most closely aligns with the goals of:
-To promote effective and responsible leadership at every level of society;
-To encourage and inspire positive social development in Vernon and neighboring communities;
-To promote positlve social development of children, youth, families and senior residents in Vernon and surrounding
communities
ln terms of eligibility requirements, this project is strong when evaluated against the following:
-lnvest in workforce development, particularly for young people ages 14 - 24
-Garner appreciation from the public and recognize the contribution from the City of Vernon
What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
The first year of Big Citizen HUB yielded results that indicate this program has great potential. Some of the results include:
-92oh of students graduated from the program
-98% of students igreed or strongly agreed that they have increased ability to work with others as a part of a team
-96% of parents refiorted that the-y igfte or stronglyagree that they have seen positive changes in their child as a result of Big Citizen
HUB
-93% of students indicated that they identified a problem in their community and had a plan for solving the problem in their community
The fiscal sponsor for this organization, Community Partners, has a long history in Southern California of successfully supporting
nonprofit organizations in thJearly stages of development. They have a strong reputation in the field for providing stability and
expertise in:,back of house" functions,luch as monitoring and tracking of flnancials, providing human resources infrastructure, filing
taxes, and handling compliance/monitoring for public sector funding.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
The challenges that face Big Citizen HUB in implementing their program are consistent with those that face many
nonprofits. Fund development is always a priority. Continuing program relevance and innovation, and maintaining
strong relationships with other nonprofits and public agencies will be very important for this organization. They are
well-positioned to be able to withstand these expected challenges as they come up.
Recommended Amount: I $5o,ooo
_ Yes
Fund this proposal?
-No
Suggested revision(s) to proposal/fund amount, if applicable:
Fund Big Citizen HUB as Founding Partner for the coming fiscal year, which begins July 2016. The recommended grant
would allow for the funding of 30% of students who are enrolled in the program from the VCF area in the coming year.
With a one-year commitment, a Founding Partner grant includes the creation of "Vernon CommUNlTY Fellows" cohort of
students, for Big Citizens living in the VCF area. ln addition, there will be opportunities for establishing connections to the
organization through volunteer opportunities on Big Service Day, hosting student service day projects in Vernon or the
suirounding communities, and having Vernon CommUNlTY Fellows play an active, visible role in service projects in the
VCF.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Datα Lノ 上 ノ2“
GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM
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AmountRequestedi lS235,000′2years RecomrnendedAmount ls22,000
Type of support
requested:
General Operating
f. ProlecuProgram
Brief Narrative description of the organization
Coalicion de Latinos Americanos (CODELA) is a private, nonprofit organizalion with a mission to provide
high-quality pre-school education, child nutrition programs, and family support services. The target population
for CODELA services is predominantly Latino, and largely low-income. The organization assists 380
pre-school aged children and their families on an annual basis.
CODELA offers a comprehensive curriculum lo sludents to ensure kindergarten readiness. Their teachers are
certified in early childhood educalion, and CODELA also hosts student teachers from East Los Angeles
Community College, Cerritos College, and Los Angeles Community College.
The organization's headquarters and principal pre-school are located in Maywood, and they operate two other
pre-school sites in Bell Gardens. Almost 85% of the organization's revenues come from the State Department
of Education, with approximately 10% of the budget funded by a federal food nulrition program. The
organization's website address isi www.codelapreschool.org
Organizational strengths:
-Consistent, year over year funding from the California State Department of Education to provide
pre-school education
-Good relationships with local community colleges, which facilitates certification of pre-school
educators in the VCF area, and the professional development CODELA staff
-Strong parental engagement via the parent council
Specific population(s) targeted by grant request (if applicable)
Age Rangel
Gender a∥
children aged 3 -5 allFamrly lype: _
Military Status: n/a
RacdEhndり 空 Sexua1 0rienta∥oni n′
What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
The organization operates three successful pre-schools in the Southeast Los Angeles communities of
Maywood and Bell Gardens.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
There are significant challenges in launching a new training programming, especially when that is not
the primary focus of the organization. Covering the ongoing program costs after the initial launch
funding can strain an organization's resources, when funding and capacity is already stretched in other
areas of the organization.
Recommended Amount: l522.ooo GoS
Yes
Fund this proposal?
-No
Suggested revision(s) to proposal/fund amount, if applicable:
A 1-year general operating support grant in the amount of $22,000 is being recommended for
CODELA. Grant funds would support strengthening of organizational infrastructure, to allow for
activities that may include: professional development for staff, the creation of a fundraising/
development plan, information technology planning and upgrades, and support for parent council
activities.
CODELA has provided quality pre-school education for children in the Maywood community for more
than a decade. Providing grant funds to strengthen the organization is a good investment in an
underserved community of the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund area.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Dat., o4 / 11 12016
Attachment 3
Form Grant Agreement
www.ve rno n com m u n ityfu nd.o rg
(323) 3sr{re8
Vernon CommUNlTY Fund Grant Agreement
On !NSERT DATEI the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund (Grantor) awarded a grant to [INSERT ORGANIZATION]
(Grantee) in the amount of S[INSERT AMOUNT] to support the following purposes: To support INSERT
oRGANTZATTON MTSSTON AND PROJECT DESCRTPTTONI.
Grantor and Grantee agree to the following terms and conditions of the grant:
1. Scope of Work:
Grantee shall use the grant funds solely for the purposes stated below, and Grantee shall repay to
Grantor any portion of the amount granted which is not used for those purposes. Any changes in the
purposes for which grant funds are spent must be approved in writing by Grantor before
implementation.
ITNSERT SCOPEI
2. Amount of Grant:
S[INSERT AMOUNT], payable upon the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund's receipt of this executed Grant
Agreement.
3. Conditions of Agreement:
Grantee agrees to the following conditions:
A. Reports. Grantee shall submit written reports to The Vernon CommUN|TY Fund as follows:
A narrative report describing in detail the use of the granted funds, compliance with the terms
of the grant and the progress made toward achieving the purposes of the grant. A financial
report detailing allexpenditures resulting from the grant.
A copy of materials (if applicable) produced as part of the grant.
The schedule for such reports is:
lnterim report: [INSERT DATE]
Final report: IINSERT DATE]
Please submit your report using your FluidReview account. lf you have any questions about the grant
report, please reach out to Anne-Marie Jones at The Vernon CommUNlTY Fund by email at
vernoncommunitvfund (@ci.vernon.ca.us or ca ll her at 323.351. 1 198.
Venron ComllruNlfY Fund Grant ABreement I 2
B. Expenditure of Grant Funds. Any funds not expended in accordance with the terms of this agreement
must be returned to Grantor. Grantee shall not use any portion of the funds granted herein to engage in
any grassroots or direct lobbying, to intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to
any candidate for public office, to fund union activity, to induce or encourage violations of law or public
policy, to cause any improper private benefit to occur, nor to take any other action inconsistent with
Section 501(c)(3) of the lnternal Revenue code.
C. PATRIOT Act. Grantee agrees that it will use the grant funds in compliance with all applicable anti-
terrorist financing and asset control laws, regulations, rules and executive orders, including but not
limited to the USA Patriot Act of 2001.
D. Return of Funds. lf Grantor, in its sole discretion, determines that Grantee violates or fails to carry out
any provision of this Agreement, Grantor may, in addition to any other legal remedies it may have,
refuse to make any further payments to Grantee, and Grantor may demand the return of all or part of
the unexpended grant funds, which the Grantee shall immediately repay to Grantor.
E. Records and Audits. Grantee must maintain these grant funds in a separate fund dedicated to
charitable purposes. A systematic accounting record shall be kept by Grantee of the receipt and expense
of such funds. Grantee shall retain original substantiating documents related to specific expenditures
and make these records available for Grantor's review upon request. Grantee shall be responsible for
maintaining adequate financial records of this grant.
F. No Further Obligations by Grantor. This grant is made with the understanding that Grantor has no
obligation to provide other or additional support or grants to Grantee.
G. Subgrantees. With regard to the selection of any subgrantees to carry out the purposes of this grant,
Grantee retains full discretion and control over the selection process, acting completely independently
of Grantor. There is no agreement, written or oral, by which Grantor may cause Grantee to choose any
particular subgrantee.
H. Licensing and Credentials. Grantee hereby agrees to maintain, in full force and effect, all required
governmental or professional licenses and credentials for itseli its facilities and for its employees and all
other persons engaged in work in conjunction with this agreement.
l. Organizational and Staff Changes. Grantee agrees to provide immediate written notice to Grantor if
significant changes or events occur during the term of this Agreement which could potentially impact
the progress or outcome of the grant, including, without limitation, changes in: a) the Grantee's
executive staff or key staff responsible for achieving the grant purposes, or b) losses in funding. ln the
event that Grantee ceases its operations, Grantee shall transfer any property purchased with the grant
funds to Grantor.
J. Liability, Disclaimers and lnsurance Requirements. Grantee hereby irrevocably and unconditionally
agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Grantor, its
officers, directors, trustees, employees and agents, from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses
and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) directly, indirectly, wholly or partially arising from
or in connection with any act or omission of Grantee, its employees or agents, in applying for or
accepting the grant, in expending or applying the funds furnished pursuant to the grant or in carrying
Verrtort CotrtntUNll-Y Fund Grartt Agreernerlt | 3
out the program or project to be funded or financed by the grant, except to the extent that such claims,
liabilities, losses or expenses arise from or in connection with any act or omission of Grantor, its officers,
directors, trustees, employees or agents. Grantees receiving grants in the amount of s75,000 or more
shall obtain from their insurance carriers certificates of insurance naming the City of Vernon as
additional insured.
K. ldentification of Grantor, Grant does not imply Grantor's sponsorship or endorsement. All of
Grantee's proposed external communications regarding Grantor or this grant, including approval of any
Grantor sponsorships, endorsements or use of the Grantor's logo, shall be submitted first to Grantor for
its review and approval. Grantor may request specific Vernon CommUNlTY Fund branding provisions at
any time during the term of this grant.
L. Entire Agreement. Grantor reserves the right to withhold or suspend payments of grant funds if
Grantee fails to comply strictly with any of the terms and conditions of the Agreement. This Agreement
shall supersede any prior oral or written understandings or communications between the parties and
constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. This
Agreement may not be amended or modified, except in a written document signed by both Grantor and
Grantee.
lN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Grant Agreement effective on the day of.
,20-.
IINSERT NAMEL Grantee
Authorized Signature
Printed Name
丁itle
Date
CITY OF VERNON, Grantor Al‐TES丁
RECEIVED
MAY o 3 2016
01TYCLERrSOFRCE STAFF REPORT
CITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
May 18,2016
Honorable Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Members
Carlos Fandino, City Administrator 5´gハ lψ
Originator: Alex Kung, Economic Development Manager
Approval and Adoption of the Proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital
Grants Program
Recommendation
A.
Find that approval of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants program proposed
in this staff report is exempt from Califomia Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA")
review, because it is a continuing administrative activity that will not result in direct or
indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a
o'project" as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378.
B. Approve and adopt the proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants program.
Backsround
As one of the key elements of the City's good governance reforms, the City Council created the
Vernon CommUNITY Fund ("VCF") to provide grants to charitable and governmental entities
for projects and programs that benefit those residing and working in Vernon. Given the
exclusively industrial nature of Vernon, the City Council determined that the VCF was in best
interest of the City and its residents, businesses, and workers.
On September 1, 2013, the City retained the services of Jemmott Rollins Group, Inc. ("JRG") to
provide consultation, guidance, research and specialized administrative support services to the
City Administrator and City staff related to the VCF. JRG has extensive experience in non-profit
grant-making and grants management and specialized knowledge of ethics principles governing
the grant-making process.
On February 4, 2014, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1218 to establish the Vernon
CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee ("Grant Committee") and provide the basic guidelines and
operational procedures for said Committee and its officers, including those related to the
Page 1 of2
allocation of funds and the processes for reviewing and ranking applications and awarding
grants.
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Section2.164, the City Council appropriated $1,000,000 to
the VCF for fiscal year 2015-2016. The Grant Committee is required to allocate funds
thoughtfully. No less than 25oh of funds available in any fiscal year shall be awarded to
proposals to expend funds on capital projects with a projected useful life of 10 years or more, or
otherwise reserve such funds for such projects to be awarded in the future. Currently, $500,000
has been reserved for capital projects and staff anticipates an additional $250,000 will be
available for fiscal year 2016-2017 pending City Council's approval of the citywide budget in
June 2016.
At the February lTth 2016 meeting, the committee met to further discuss the development of the
CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants program. At the meeting, the committee instructed JRG to
establish a capital grant program that would define the program, determine eligibility
requirements, and the application process for receiving a capital grant. In addition, a
subcommittee was formed consisting of Committee members Steve Veres, Rafael Gonzales and
Juliet Goff.
On March l6rh,2}l6,the subcommittee met with JRG, city consultant, Fred McFarlane and City
staff to review and discuss the attached proposed Capital Grants Program. Below is a summary
of the proposed grant program.
Capital Grant Program Summary
The proposed program defines capital grants as specific one-time funding awards that are often
time limited and related to physical acquisition, repurposing and improvement of property with a
useful life of l0 years or more which supports an organization's charitable involvement in the
community.
Capital grants would be for projects located in the area served by the Vernon CommUNITY
Fund. Applicants would first submit a two page letter of interest signed by the Executive
Director and the Chair of the Board of Directors describing the proposed project along with the
estimated cost and other funding sources. The program would be focused on capital projects that
are site ready and beyond the planning stage. Committee members will select the most
promising applications to advance to the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage. Applicants that
advance to the RFP stage may expect meeting with city officials and site visits.
Fiscal Impact
There is no known or anticipated fiscal impact associated with the actions proposed in this staff
report.
Attachment(s)
1. Proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund Capital Grants Program
Page2 of2
VERNON COMMUNITY FUND
NOTICE OF FUND AVAILABILITY(NOFA)
CAPITAL GRANTS
The Vernon CommUNITY Fund is pleased to announce the availability of funds for capital
expenditures. Potential applicants are encouraged to review the City of Vernon web site
[www.cityofuernon.org) and click on the Vernon CommUNITY Fund button. The following general
information appears on the web site as well as more details about the history of grants awarded
Background:
Founded in L905 as the first exclusively industrial city in the Southwestern United States the
City of Vernon is an industrial city of 5.2 square miles located several miles to the southeast of
Downtown Los Angeles in Southern California. Vernon currently houses more than 1,800
businesses that employ approximately 50,000 people, serving as a vital economic engine in the
region. Vernon maintains strong philanthropic ties with the neighboring communities where
much of its workforce lives, providing significant financial support for public services including
health care and education.
The Vernon CommUNITY Fund [VCF) contributes to the health, well-being and quality of life in
surrounding communities. The Fund is administered by a diverse group of appointed
volunteers serving as the Grant Committee which reviews and approves applications from
community and faith-based organizations as well as local governments.
VCF Mission:
The Vernon CommUNITY Fund provides charitable contributions to community-based
organizations and governmental agencies in support of efforts to improve the quality of Iife,
strengthen families and affirm Vernon's ties with neighboring communities in pursuit of bright
futures.
Goals:
To strengthen and support non-profit organizations that benefit residents and
neighborhoods;
To improve the built environment of Vernon and nearby communities;
To encourage and inspire positive social development in Vernon and neighboring
communities;
To support and assist organizations that expand opportunities for training and
development of residents for potential employment in businesses located in Vernon and
surrounding communities;
To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior
residents in Vernon and surrounding areas;
To promote effective and responsible leadership at every level of society
Vernon CommUNlTY Fund Grant Agreement | 2
Values:
o Shared responsibility for the wen_being of our neighbors now and into the future;
・ Integrity and accountability for fair decisions using high ethical standards:
o Unity of purpose and conlrnitrnent to succeed at fulfining our mission
Derlnition and Funds Available:
Capital Grants are specinc one_tilne funding awards that are inost often tiFne lirnited and related to
physical acquisition,repurposing and improvement of property that supports an organization's
charitable involvementin the cominunity. Capital grants typicaHy do not support personnel,
general operating costs or programs. The Vernon ConllnUNITY fund win award up to S750,000 for
one or more capital grant〔s)in 2016/2017 and nolessthan 25%ofthe total CommUNITY fund
annual budgetin subsequent「lscal years.
Consideration will be given for the fo1lowing purposes with useful Hfe of10 years or rnore:
O Equipment,furnishing,and other malor material purchases
o Renovations,refurbishment,remodeling′rehabilitation,etc.for outdated facilities
o Construction or purchase of new facilities
O Land purchases
e Capital campaigns(formal approaches to malor COnstruction prolectS〕
O Matching/Challenge grants for capital campaigns
Capital Grants are for proieCtSlocated in the area seⅣed by the Vernon ConlrnUNITY Fund.AH
eligibility criteria for the general fund will apply for consideration of a Capital Grant as well as
additional criteria outlined here.
The application for a capital grantis different than the typical operating or proleCt Support grant.
The application process is initiated with a formalletter ofinterest signed by the Executive Director
and the Chair ofthe Board of Directors. This is notthe formal proposal. Rather this letter requests
the VCF to consider capital grants funding for a specific purpose thatis outlined in the letter.
A description ofthe purpose for which an award would be used is required along with the
estimated cost ofthe total prolect liSt and amounts pledged from other fundersitime period in
which funds will be spenti「lnal product and value added to Vernon and the surrounding
cominunity. The letter ofinterest cannot exceed two pages.
Attached to the letter ofinterest,applicants must include an IRS deternlination letter;latest Form
990,Inost recent「lnancial audit,list ofthe board ofdirectors and list of other funding partners.
Site Readiness:
Vernon ColllillUNITY Fund Grant Agreement 1 3
The letter ofintent for a capital prolect must contain an accurate physical description ofthe
location for which funds will be used ifthe apphcantis awarded a grant.
The VCF grant review willinclude a fu∥review ofthe following:
Site control: who owns and has title to the property? Ifnot the applicant,what is the relationship
between the property owner and applicant? If property is a government agency and tenantis the
applicant non‐pront,whatis the length and terms ofthe lease? is the applicant able to assure ten or
more years ofcontinuous tenancy? Why is the tenant and notthe owner applying for funds?
PropOsed use offunds: The letter ofinterest rnust demonstrate intent we∥beyond the idea stage of
development. Is transparency and approval evidentin records ofthe Board of Directors,its
comrnittees and planning rneetings? Are other funders ofthe organization supportive ofthe capital
prOleCt′even ifthey will not be direct contributors? Why does the applicant believe the use of
capital grants is feasible to achieve its goals? VVhatis the proposed total estirnate ofcosts and how
was it derived?
VVhatis the proposed plan for managing capital expenditures?What key
staff/persOnnel will be involved?Whatis their experience with capital grants?What consultant
expertise will be used? How wiH consultants be chosen?
Ongoing Maintenance:Is there a plan and budget developed for ongoing rnaintenance ofthe capital
prOleCt?Who will maintain the capital prolect after completion?
Reouest for ProDOSal rRFPl:The VCF Grant Committee willselectthe most promising applica■ons
to advance to the RFP stageo Applicants rnay expect site visits,rneetings with City ofVernon
consultants and Adnlinistrative Staff ofthe City.
Timeline:
fuly 5:Release of Notice of Fund Availability;
September 5 Bidders conference
October 17 Deadline to submit LOI
November 14 Notification of successfulbid
January 30,2017 Deadline for submission of proposal
May 2077 Presentation for approval by VCF Grants Committee
Grant Agreement Letter issued
lune 20\7 Grant funded
RECEIVED
MAY o 3 2016
01丁 Y CLERK'S OFFICE STAFF REPORT
CITY ADMINISTRAT10N
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
ⅣIay 18,2016
Honorable Vernon Col■mUNITY Fund Grant Colllmittee ⅣIembers
Carlos Fandino, City Administrator @ s-b-tb
Originator: Alex Kung, Economic Development Manager
Discussion Regarding Development of a Scholarship Fund
Recommendation
A. Hold a discussion regarding the development of a scholarship fund
B. Authorization to form a subcommittee to further consider and possibly develop a
scholarship fund
Background
Recently, the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Chair, Michael Gavina, inquired with the city's
consultant, Jemmott Rollins Group (JRG), the feasibility of establishing a scholarship fund for
high school students of Vernon residents, businesses and their employees interested in attaining a
postsecondary education. In response to the Chair's request, JRG reached out to local
postsecondary educational institutes and non-proht organizations to determine the feasibility in
creating a fund. As a result of their discussions, JRG recommends the Committee members form
a subcommittee to further consider and address factors relating to the creation of a scholarship
tund.
Fiscal Impact
Any potential fiscal impact associated with the creation of a scholarship fund is unknown at this
time and will be addressed when such proposed requirements are more fully developed and
evaluated by the proposed subcommittee, Jemmott Rollins Group, and City staff.
Attachment(s)
None.
Page I of I