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HomeMy WebLinkAbout8658RESOLUTION NO. 8658 A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PUEBLO, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AND THE STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND RELATING TO THE ENHANCEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AT THE PUEBLO ZOO PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo supports the Pueblo Zoological Society; and WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo has received a grant from The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund to fund the Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo project, subject to the execution of a grant agreement; and BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, COLORADO, that: SECTION 1. The grant agreement dated December 14, 1998, between the City of Pueblo, a Municipal corporation, and the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund, for the Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo project, a copy of which is attached hereto (except a copy of the City's application which is on file in the office of the City Clerk) having been approved as to form by the City Attorney, is hereby approved. SECTION 2 The President of the City Council is hereby authorized to execute and deliver the Grant Agreement on behalf of the City of Pueblo, a Municipal Corporation, and the City Clerk shall affix the seal of the City thereto and attest same. SECTION 3. All matching funds will be provided by the Pueblo Zoological Society. SECTION 4. The Resolution will become effective upon final passage. INTRODUCED March 22, 1999 BY: Rich Golenda Councilperson APPROVED: t wI� -- President of the Council ATTEST: Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement GRANT AGREEMENT PROJECT: Name: Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo Completion Date: Prior to June 1, 2000 Contract Number: 9254 PARTIES TO AGREEMENT: Board: The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund Address: 303 East 17 Avenue, Suite 900 Denver, CO 80203 Telephone: (303) 863 -7522 Grantee: City of Pueblo Address: No. 1 City Hall Place Pueblo, CO 81003 Telephone: (719) 543 -6006 Contact Name: Steven Meier Contact Title: Senior Planner, Department of Planning and Development Date: December 14, 1998 CONTEXT OF AGREEMENT: A. The Board is a political subdivision of the State of Colorado, created by Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution. adopted at the November, 1992 General Election. The Constitution appropriates a portion of the net proceeds of the Colorado Lottery to the Board and directs the Board to invest those proceeds in the State's parks, wildlife, open space and recreational resources. B. In 1994, the Board created a statewide grant program, pursuant to which eligible entities could apply for grants for Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation to which Grantee responded with a detailed application (the "Project Application "). C. Grantee submitted a Project Application to the Board which contemplates the execution of the project entitled and described above (the "Project "), a copy of which is incorporated by reference and attached as Appendix A. Project 9254 Page 1 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement D. The Board approved Grantee's Project Application on October 2, 1998, subject to the execution of a detailed Grant Agreement the conditions of which are set forth herein. E. Grantee anticipates that the Project described in the Project Application will be substantially completed no later than June 1, 2000. F. Grantee has undertaken responsibility for obtaining the match (funds and in -kind contributions) described in the project application. G. The parties intend this document to be the detailed Grant Agreement (the "Agreement ") required by the Board. The Grantee shall carry out the project in accordance with this Agreement and a work program to be approved by the Executive Director of the Board pursuant to this agreement. AGREEMENT The parties agree as follows: 1. Grant and Project The Board hereby grants to Grantee the sum not to exceed $70,900, subject to the terms of this Agreement. These funds shall be used by Grantee solely to complete the project described in Grantee's Project Application as approved by the Board. Grantee hereby agrees to use its best efforts to complete the proj ect. 2. Project scope The Project, Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo, as described in the Project Application, will not be materially modified by the Grantee without the written approval of the Executive Director of the Board. In multi- phase projects this Agreement only pertains to the identified phase of the project, and not the project as a whole. 3. Information to be provided upon execution of this Aureement NO FUNDS WILL BE DISBURSED BY THE BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL THE GRANTEE FURNISHES THE BOARD WITH THE INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THIS AGREEMENT. Prior to execution of this Agreement, Grantee will submit the following information to the Board's staff: a. A resolution adopted by the governing body of the Grantee authorizing the execution of this agreement and approving its terms and conditions (which will be attached to the Agreement as Appendix C); Project 9254 Page 2 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement b. A detailed Work Plan and Budget for this Project. Grantee hereby agrees to promptly submit all material revisions to their Work Plan and Budget. As provided further below, the Board reserves the right at any stage of the Project to withhold funding if (i) modifications to the Project are so substantial as to make it, in the Board's reasonable judgment, substantially different in quality or kind from that approved by the Board, or (ii) there have been delays in the implementation of the Project which, in the Board's reasonable judgment, make the Project impracticable; C. Written evidence that all permits and approvals necessary to the completion of the project under applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations have been obtained; and d. Plans for the erection of signs and placards for the Project, as provided in Section 10(d) below. 4. Disbursement of Funds Prior to the payment by the Board at the completion of the Project, a. The Grantee must provide the Board: (1) Written assurance the Project has been substantially completed according to the work plan and budget, along with Project Expenditure Documentation detailed in Appendix B (the "Project Expenditure Documentation "), and reports as noted above to support this claim; (2) Written assurance that no material modifications or delays have been made or experienced (or the Board has been advised of the modifications or delays and has elected to continue to participate in the funding of the Project); (3) Written assurance that matching funding has been received as outlined in the Project Expenditure Documentation (Appendix B) (or the status of efforts to secure matching funding has been disclosed to Board staff and it has been found to be satisfactory); and (4) Written assurance that the representations made to the Board in the Project Application continue to be true (or, if there have been any material changes, the Board has been advised of such changes and has assented to them). b. The Board will release funding subject to the following conditions: (1) Funding may only be used for fixed assets, including land acquisition, construction of new facilities, and enlargement or renovation of existing facilities. Funding may not be used to pay for maintenance costs, design costs, administrative costs (such as salaries associated with administering the grant, office supplies, telephone, or travel expenses), non -fixed assets (such as athletic equipment), or any other costs deemed to be ineligible by the Board. Project 9254 Page 3 Council Agenda TITLE: A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PUEBLO, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AND THE STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND RELATING TO THE ENHANCEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AT THE PUEBLO ZOO PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME DEPARTMENT: PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT AGENDA ITEM # DATE: MARCH 22, 1999 ISSUE: Should the City Council approve a grant agreement between the City of Pueblo and the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund for Enhancement of the Environmental Education at the Pueblo Zoo project and authorizing the President of Council to execute the agreement. BACKGROUND: The City of Pueblo is acting as the sponsor for the Pueblo Zoological Society for the Enhancement of the Environmental Education at the Pueblo Zoo project. The City received a $70,900 grant from the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund. The Pueblo Zoological Society is committed to matching the grant with $39,300 cash and in- kind services. The project will consist of installing interpretative signs exhibiting the importance of elk, bison, Merriam turkeys, and a variety of insects, amphibians, reptiles and plant materials. The estimated budget for the project is $110,200, which includes the following funding sources: $ 70,900 Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund $ 39,300 Pueblo Zoological Society $110,200 TOTAL COST RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the Resolution. FINANCIAL IMPACT: Through a separate agreement between the Pueblo Zoological Society and the City of Pueblo, the Pueblo Zoo will assume all financial obligations required under the Great Outdoors Colorado grant agreement. The City's only financial impact will be the staff time involved in monitoring the projects. The project must be maintained by the City, or it's successors, for at least 25 years. Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement (2) Disbursement shall be made on the basis of costs incurred. A reduction in total project cost or grantee's matching funding may cause a proportional reduction in the grant award. (3) Full payment of the contract amount will be made upon substantial completion of the Project, and submission and approval of the Project Expenditure Documentation and the information required by paragraphs 3 (Information to be provided upon execution of this Agreement) and 4 (Disbursement of Funds). (4) Grantee shall submit a written request for reimbursement as outlined in the Project Expenditure Documentation within 180 days of Project Completion. Projects are considered completed when all anticipated land has been acquired, facilities or trails built. Failure to submit the request for reimbursement within the specified time period may result in reduction or loss of grant dollars even if there are undisbursed amounts remaining in the grant. 5. Waiver The Executive Director may waive one or more of the obligations in paragraphs 3 and 4 of the Agreement, or may require performance of one or more of these obligations subsequent to disbursement. Project operation and maintenance Grantee agrees: a. Grantee or its successor will operate and maintain the Project facilities in a reasonable state of repair for the purposes specified in the Project Application for at least 25 years, in accordance with generally accepted standards in the parks /recreation/wildlife community. The parties understand and agree that the Board shall not be liable for any cost of such maintenance, management or operation. b. Grantee will, upon request, provide the Board with the operating and maintenance costs of the Project, and give the Board appropriate information concerning the use of the Project by the public and the impact of the Project. 7. Compliance with regulatory reauirements and federal and state mandates. The Grantee hereby assumes responsibility for compliance with all regulatory requirements in all applicable areas, including but not limited to nondiscrimination, worker safety, local labor preferences, preferred vendor programs, equal employment opportunity, use of competitive bidding, and other similar requirements. To the extent permitted by law, the Grantee will indemnify the Board from any liability for any failure to comply with any such applicable requirements. 8. Public access Grantee agrees, for itself and its successors in interest, to allow reasonable access to the members of the public to the Project. 9. Nondiscrimination During the performance of this agreement, the Grantee and its contractors shall not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap, medical condition, marital status, age or sex. The Grantee and its contractors shall ensure Project 9254 Page 4 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement that the evaluation and treatment of their employees and applicants for employment are free of such discrimination. 10. Publicity and Project Information Grantee agrees: a. Grantee shall acknowledge Board funding in all publicity issued by it concerning the Project; b. Grantee shall cooperate with the Board in preparing public information pieces; C. Grantee shall give the Board the right and opportunity to use information gained from the Project; d. Grantee shall erect a sign at a visible location on the Project site acknowledging the assistance of Great Outdoors Colorado and the Colorado Lottery. Such signs can be obtained through Great Outdoors Colorado, or the Board will provide reproducible samples of its logo to the Grantee for custom signs. If a custom sign is desired, plans describing the number, design, placement, and wording of signs and placards shall be submitted to the Board for review and approval prior to completion of the Project. Final payment may be withheld by the Board pending placement of signage in the manner approved by the Board; e. Grantee shall give the Board 30 -day notice of and opportunity to participate in Project dedications; f. Grantee shall give timely notice of the Project, its inauguration, significance, and completion to the local members of the Colorado General Assembly, members of the board of county commissioners of the county or counties in which the Project is located, as well as to other appropriate public officials; and g. Grantee shall provide quality photographs or slides of the project upon completion if requested by Great Outdoors Colorado. 11. Audits and Accounting Grantee shall maintain standard financial accounts, documents, and records relating to the use, management, and operation of the Project. The accounts, documents, and records related to the Project shall be retained by the Grantee for five (5) years following the date of disbursement of funds under this Agreement. The Board, or its designated agent, shall have the right, upon reasonable notice to the Grantee, to audit the books and records of Grantee which pertain to the Project and to the use and disposition of Board funds. The Grantee may use any accounting system which follows the guidelines of "Generally Accepted Accounting Practices" published by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. 12. Withdrawal of Board funding The Board may withdraw its approval of ffimding to the Grantee and cease funding of the Project if, in its sole discretion, it determines conditions have occurred which fundamentally change the expectations of the parties or which make the grant infeasible or impractical. Project 9254 Page 5 MAR 08 '99 14:07 FR GOCO 303 863 7517 TO 17195430572 P.03iO3 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement 13. Grantee's inability to complete Project If the Grantee determines with reasonable probability that the Project will not or cannot be completed as reflected in the Project Application the Grantee will promptly so advise the Board, and cooperate in good faith with respect to alternative solutions to the problem before any further funds are advanced. 14. Inspection Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Board shall have the right to inspect the Project area to ascertain compliance with this Agreement. 15. Governmental Immunity The following provision applies to the Board. This provision may apply to the grantee if the grantee qualifies for protection under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, C.R.S. §24 -10 -101 et se . The Parties by entering into the instant agreement, do not waive or intend to waive by any provision of this agreement, the monetary limitations (presently $150,000 per person and $600,000 per occurrence) or any other rights, immunities, and protections provided by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, C.R.S. §24-10 -101 et se ., as it is from time to time amended, or otherwise available to the Grantee, its successor, employees, officers or agents. 16. Liability. To the extent permitted by law, the Grantee shall be responsible for, indemnify and hold harmless the Board, its officers, agents and employees from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, damages or costs resulting from, growing out of, or in any way connected with or incident to this Agreement, except for the negligence of willful and wanton conduct of the Board its officers, agents, or employees. Grantee hereby waives any and all rights to any type of express or implied indemnity or right of contribution from the State of Colorado, the Board, its officers, agents or employees, for any liability resulting from, growing out of, or in any way connected with or incident to this Agreement. 17. Assignment Grantee may not assign its rights under this Agreement without the consent of the Board. 18. Good faith There is an obligation of good faith on the part of both parties, including the obligation to make timely communication of information which may reasonably be believed to be of interest to the other party. 19. Avylicable Law Colorado law applies to the interpretation and enforcement of this Agreement. 20. Independent Contractor Grantee is an independent contractor acting in its separate capacity and not as an officer, employee or agent of the Board. Project 9254 Page 6 ** TOTAL PAGE.03 ** Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement 21. Subject to Annual Appropriation Any provision of this agreement or its attachments which impose upon Grantee, directly or indirectly, any financial obligation whatsoever to be performed or which may be performed in any fiscal year subsequent to the year of execution of this agreement is expressly made contingent upon and subject to funds for such financial obligation be appropriated, budgeted and otherwise made available. 22. Severability If any provision of the Grant Agreement, or the application there of is found to be invalid, the remainder of the provisions of this Grant Agreement, or the application of such provision other than those as to which it is found to be invalid, shall remain in full force and effect. 23. Entire Agreement Except as expressly provided herein. this Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties. No oral understanding or agreement not incorporated in this Agreement shall be binding upon the parties. No changes in this Agreement shall be valid unless made as an amendment to this contract, approved by the Board, and signed by the parties in this Agreement. Dated: 4 --7 -,:: ° k STATE B ARD OF THE GREAT UTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND By: A� For Executive Director GRANTE City of ue o B Y Title: President of City Council Project 9254 Page 7 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Grant Agreement APPENDIX A PROJECT APPLICATION Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo Project 9254 Page 8 Great Outdoors Colorado Grant Application Summary Form Local Government Parks, Related Outdoor Recreation Facilities and Environmental Education Facilities (Acquire, Establish and Enhance) Participant Information 1. Applicant: 2. Third Party/ Partner: City of Pueblo Pueblo Zoological Society 3. Applicant Address: 4. Third -Party Address: City Hall 3455 N uckoiis Avenue Pueblo, CO 81003 Pueblo, CO 81005 5. Applicant Contact: 5. Third Party contact: Name: Steven Meier Name: Jonnene McFarland Title: Senior Planner, Dept. of Planning Title: Executive Director and Development Telephone #: (719) 561 -1452 Fax#: (719) 543 -0572 Fax #: (719) 561 -8686 PROJECT INFORMATION 7. Title: Enhancement of Environmental Education at the Pueblo Zoo with the addition of an Exhibit and Graphic Displays on Local Wildlife 8. U. S. Congressional District: 3rd 9. Colorado Senate District: #3 Colorado House District #45 10. County: Pueblo 11. Brief Description of Project: Environmental education in Pueblo County will be enhanced with the construction and graphical interpretation of an exhibit for bison, elk, and Merriam`s turkeys at the Pueblo Zoo and with the installation of three graphic displays, in other areas of the 25- acre facility, on local insect, amphibian, reptile, and plant identification. 12. Partners: Pueblo Zoological Society ($12,300 cash, $7,655 in- kind), Colorado Division of Wildlife ($500 cash), Thatcher Foundation ($5,000 cash), Northstar Surveying ($225 in- kind), Larry's Electric ($ 4,800 in- kind), Swerdfeger Construction ($4,320 in- kind), B.A.V. Construction ( $2,500 in- kind), and Santa Fe Supply & Rental ( $2,000 in -kind) 13. Source & Amount of Local Match 14. Project Funding: Source: Amount: Zoological Society $17,800 Grant Request $ 70,900 In -kind $21,500 Local Match $ 39,300 Total $110200 15. Authorized Signature: Date: 9" ,2g :qg GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 2 Great Outdoors Colorado Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Project Grant Application for Construction of a Bison/Elk/Merriam's Turkey Exhibit and Wildlife Interpretation Area and Graphic Displays of Pueblo County Amphibians and Reptiles, Pueblo Area Insects, and Identification of the Native Plants of Pueblo September 29, 1998 I. Eligibility Requirements 1. Project Types: Construction of an exhibit of bison, elk, and Merriam's turkeys, a wildlife interpretive area, and three graphic displays at the Pueblo Zoo in City Park which will enhance environmental education in Pueblo County 2. Recipients: The grant recipient will be the City of Pueblo, owner of the Pueblo Zoo, partnering with the Pueblo Zoological Society, a 501(c)3 non - profit organization which manages the facility. 3. Matching funds: A $12,300 cash match will be provided by the Pueblo Zoological Society from monies in its capital development fund which includes private and corporate contributions as well as proceeds from fund - raising events. The Colorado Division of Wildlife will provide $500 in cash match, and the Thatcher Foundation plans to grant $5,000. The Zoological Society will provide an in -kind match of $21,500 (please refer to pages 13 and 14 and to supporting letters). In addition, the Colorado Division of Wildlife will donate amphibian and reptile photographs, and the University of Southern Colorado will donate insect specimens. 4. Ability to Complete the Project: For more than twenty years, the Zoological Society has worked closely with the City of Pueblo in completing GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 3 improvement projects at the Pueblo Zoo. Between 1976 and 1990, the Pueblo Zoological Society served in a support capacity for the City -owned Zoo, raising funds for successful joint projects including construction of a sun bear exhibit; construction of the Education Building, which includes the Mahlon T. White Discovery Room (the first of its kind in Colorado); renovation of an historic building into the "Cold- blooded Creatures" herpetarium; and the first phase of the "Ecocenter" (tropical rainforest and penguin exhibits). Since 1991, when the Society assumed management of the Zoo under a contract with the City, projects have included completion of the "Ecocenter," expansion of the Education Building to include a classroom and a gift shop, installation of a snack bar, construction of naturalistic African Lion and Southeast Asian exhibits, renovation of an Australian exhibit, and construction of a 4,800 sq. ft. picnic shelter, as well as a considerable number of smaller improvement projects. In August 1998, ground was broken for an addition to the Animal Care Center, and several other exhibit renovations are slated for completion in 1999. The Society's ability to complete projects is further demonstrated by its completion in March 1997, of a GOCO funded project -- "Renovation and Enhancement of Pueblo Zoo Native Waterfowl and Wild Bird Area." Responsibility for completion of all Zoo projects rests upon the Director, Associate Director/Education, and General Curator, all of whom have related master's degrees in addition to extensive experience in project planning and management. The Buildings /Grounds Supervisor, who has seventeen years experience in the construction industry, directly supervises all construction projects. Assisting in overall design is a lead keeper who holds a degree in wildlife management as well as considerable experience in animal husbandry. Graphics design and production are completed under contract by a design studio which has had a fourteen year relationship with the Zoo. Master planning for these projects was completed by a zoo design professional. The services of a landscape architect will be utilized to finalize plans for the North American exhibit and interpretive Area. Because it is the Society's policy to have all funding in -hand before beginning any project, matching funds will be available by this project's starting date. No state or federal permits are necessary for these projects. GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society October 1, 1998 page 4 5. Maintenance Capability: These exhibits will be maintained in the same professional manner as are other Zoo exhibits. High quality maintenance is insured by the exacting standards that must be met for continuing accreditation by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Zoo's budget is comprised of a City subsidy, gate receipts, various sales, membership dues, contributions, and sponsorships; and has increased simultaneously with the growth in facilities and the animal collection. 6. Status of Property: The Pueblo Zoo is owned by the City of Pueblo. Please see attached Pueblo County Assessor Map. 7. Local Support: A cover letter of support from the Pueblo City Council is enclosed. A City Council resolution is attached. S. Maximum Grant: Grant request is for $70,900. 9. Project Period: Project will begin February 15, 1999, and be completed by May 1, 2000. II. Selection Criteria A. Characteristics 1. Quality of project There are four parts to this project: #1 Bison/Elk /Merriam's Turkey Exhibit and Wildlife Interpretive Area: Bison and elk pens (chainlink) currently occupy a 15,000 sq. ft. area in the northwest corner of the Zoo. The new exhibit will include an additional 8,000 sq. ft. for the incorporation of adequate holding areas necessary to mix three species— bison, elk, and Merriam's turkeys. (Combining these species will illustrate the proximity of their historical ranges in the local area). Several individual elements make up the overall project: building animal shelters, screening the back side of the animal habitat, remodeling holding pens to permit separation of animals during stressful periods like birthing or the rut; berming to partially conceal barrier fencing; camouflaging barrier fencing on the visitor side with natural wood and plants; GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 5 constructing viewing areas that are as unobstructed as possible; adding and interpreting indigenous plants; adding a watering system; constructing walkways; and installing two teepees that will house graphics interpreting animals exhibited, their ecological roles, and importance through history as well as information from the Colorado Division of Wildlife on how and where these and other local species may be observed in the wild. #2 Amphibians and Reptiles of Pueblo County Graphic Display This display, of the high quality characteristic of others in the Pueblo Zoo, will be located in the "Cold- Blooded Creatures" herpetarium. The Zoo's master plan calls for expansion of the number of animal species housed in this facility. The graphic display will feature back - lighted photographs of each of the twenty -nine local species of amphibians and reptiles together with interpretive information. Permission has been granted by the Colorado Division of Wildlife to utilize the excellent photographs published in Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado by Geoffrey A. Hammerson (see letter). It will also include terrarium type habitats for living animals representing at least three species of local amphibians and /or reptiles. These exhibits will be constructed so they may accomodate either permanent or seasonal representatives of the species. For example, a Woodhouse's toad might be exhibited only during the summer, then released in early fall for natural hibernation, or New Mexico spadefoot toads might be exhibited for a short time after emerging in response to heavy rainfall (Please see sketch). #3 Insects of the Pueblo Area Graphic Display, The Zoo has a small collection of mounted insects from the Pueblo area. The University of Southern Colorado will contribute others (see letter). This collection will be increased to include representatives of all orders found locally. In addition to the mounted insect specimens the display will include artwork and interpretive information. The display will be located just outside the classroom in the Zoo's education building and will be of the same quality as the displays in the Mahlon T. White Discovery Room (see photo). This display will be a fitting complement to an existing display of the butterflies of Colorado. GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 6 #4 Identification of Flora of the Pueblo Area Graphic Displav This graphic display will feature panels containing photographs of, and interpretive information about, at least 50 of the most showy and common local plants. It will be constructed so additional species may be added in the future. The information presented will include the practicality of utilizing these native species in the home landscape setting. An accompanying graphic display will focus on the adaptations of plants to the semi -arid climate of Pueblo County. This graphic display will complement the Zoo's expanding collection of living plants of the Pueblo area. 2. Need /Degree to which the need is satisfied a. There are no other displays of this nature within the Southern Colorado region. The Pueblo Zoo plays a major role in environmental education. Each year educational programs are presented to over 14,000 students from throughout the Southern Colorado region. Students are encouraged to use their observation skills to discover many fascinating things about the natural world. Programs presented by staff and trained volunteers help students learn scientific concepts important in today's world of disappearing species (see photo). Graphic displays, many of which are interactive, reinforce these concepts. Interpretation of the Zoo's animal, plant, and biofact collections has been the np . mM focus of the Pueblo Zoological Society since its inception in 1976. Consequently, considerable funds have been invested in this endeavor. Continued development of these aspects is critical to the future of environmental education in the area as economic growth and the influx of new residents continue to increase, especially since many are not familiar with Pueblo area ecology. Individually each of these projects address specific needs. However, together they address an overriding need for expansion of environmental education opportunities in Pueblo County. #1 Bison/Elk /Nferriam's Turkey Exhibit and Wildlife Interpretive Area: Although both bison and elk have been on exhibit at the Pueblo Zoo for many years, it is imperative they be exhibited in more naturalistic surroundings to impart an appropriate environmental GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 7 message to viewers. The addition of a third species (Merriam's turkeys) to the exhibit and the installation of interpretive graphics will significantly enhance the exhibit's educational value. This exhibit will not duplicate the efforts of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which no longer houses these species. Currently, there is no place in close proximity to Pueblo where one can be assured of seeing these animals, particularly for those physically challenged or economically disadvantaged. #2 Amphibians and Reptiles of Pueblo County Graphic Displace The Zoo's staff is inundated with requests for identification of amphibian and reptile species. The addition of a graphic and live animal exhibit featuring all twenty -nine Pueblo County species is designed to meet this need and to interpret the importance of these animals in the local area, particularly as development continues to eliminate their habitats. #3 Insects of the Pueblo Area Graphic Display: Because insects are the largest group in the animal kingdom, play such important roles in natural food chains, and are so economically significant, it is vital that they be interpreted to the public. Zoo staff receives frequent calls and visits from the public, requesting insect identification and information. This display will provide visitors and staff with actual specimens to aid in identification. In addition, it is hoped public understanding of local species will lead to more judicious decisions affecting their management. #4 Identification of Flora of the Pueblo Area Graphic Display: Over the past six years, horticulture has increased greatly in the role it plays at the Pueblo Zoo. This includes naturalizing exhibits, the installation of perennial flower beds, and the creation of xeriscaped areas. Because the Zoo is a relatively secure area, it is the ideal setting for demonstration gardens. Classes taught by Zoo staff on the use of native plants in landscaping raise public awareness about area plants and their adaptations to the local climate. Because of a growing level of visitor interest in learning about plants, the addition of this graphic display focusing on native plants will serve to increase the awareness and appreciation of the plants native to the Pueblo area prairie biome. LOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 8 b. While there is no adopted parks and recreation master plan for the community or region, in 1994, a citizens group and City Council produced the Communities of Pueblo Strategic Plan intended to guide development in Pueblo until 2010. The Environmental Action Plan states the goal, to "promote and establish environmental education programs for people of all ages." The Pueblo Zoo is listed as a cooperating agency in that effort. In 1997, the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Council completed the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan (funded in part by a GOCO grant) identified: (1) the need for "educating both the young and old about the importance of the natural world" and (2) a "lack of public understanding of the prairie ecosystem." This plan lists "enhancement of existing, and the development of new, exhibits focusing on local, indigenous wildlife at the Pueblo Zoo" as one of its pilot projects. Development of the Pueblo Zoo is guided by a facilities master plan adopted in February 1997. This plan was the result of a year -long effort that incorporated input from local residents, community leaders, Society members and Board, and City and Society staffs. While the master plan calls for representation of worldwide species and ecosystems, it recognizes the importance of displaying and interpreting local and regional plants and animals in order to foster an appreciation and conservation ethic focused close to home. It is easy to "sell" the exotic appeal of megavertebrates from far away places; however, it often is harder to convince our own residents of the need to conserve local ecosystems. A World Conservation Union working group recently stated, ". . . zoos should first include a display of local flora and fauna... local species can serve as the basis to explain sustainable use of natural resources." At the Pueblo Zoo, the public is attracted by monkeys and lions, but once they arrive they are presented with a wide variety of educational experiences. Although the public had no idea what a "discovery room" might be, nor whether they wanted one or not, the Mahlon T. White Discovery Room illustrates how an exhibit based on sound principles of museology and science can be very popular with the public, yet educate subtly. Zoo attendance soared after its opening in 1985, and the room with its microscopes and interactive displays continues to be extremely well utilized. Neither state nor federal permits are required for completion of this project. GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 9 3. Multiple objectives Zoo visitors represent a wide cross - section of the community, as diverse as the 135,000 citizens of Pueblo County, as well as a considerable number of tourists. For visitors from within Pueblo County, these projects will provide the possibility to learn more about the native animals and plants they may encounter as they utilize the other natural resources in the area. From those outside the county, they will demonstrate the rich natural heritage of Pueblo County. • These projects will increase the opportunities for students, led by Zoo Docents or by teachers, to learn about native species. As a living laboratory, the Zoo is an important local resource for teachers participating in the Teaching Environmental Science Naturally program as well as in other teacher workshops and classes offered by Zoo staff. Enhancements to the educational potential of the Zoo will increase its value to their programs and to those of other educators who utilize the facility. 4. Accessibility As one of the most popular attractions in Pueblo, the Zoo annually attracts more than 95,000 visitors of all ages, income levels, and ethnic backgrounds. It is open to the public 362 days each year. In order for the Zoo to insure the facility is affordable for all, each year's calendar includes six free days, a free day for seniors, several discounted admission events, and numerous published coupon specials. Zoo admission fees are low as is the cost of family memberships which grant free admission year- round. In addition, greatly discounted or free admission is offered to disadvantaged or disabled groups such as residents of the Colorado Mental Health Institute. Students from both area school districts, who participate in education programs, are admitted without charge, and their program fees are paid by a grants from the districts. Students from throughout Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico enter at reduced group rates, which are negotiated even lower in case of need. All Zoo exhibits are wheelchair and stroller accessible. In addition, outreach programs travel throughout the region. Recent gate surveys, which show that over twenty percent of the visiting public comes to the Zoo from outside Pueblo County, indicate its considerable economic impact and growing tourist appeal. The City .,;,d n LOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 10 Planning Department has recommended upgrading the trail that connects the Zoo with the Arkansas River Greenway and ultimately the downtown Historic Arkansas River Project, thereby expanding the opportunities for visitors to Southeastern Colorado to enjoy the educational and recreational experiences possible at the Zoo. The popularity of zoos in general makes them excellent institutions to increase public awareness of the irreplaceable values of nature and the need for development of a conservation ethic. B. Leveraging and Partnerships 1. Matching Funds The Pueblo Zoological Society is partnering with the City of Pueblo on the proposed project. Over the past seven years the City and Society have invested over $1.7 million in improvements at the Pueblo Zoo. Of the funding required for the proposed project, thirty -six percent will be provided by the Society. Of this portion, $12,300 in cash will come from the Society's capital development fund and $5,000 from the Thatcher Foundation. For the bison /elk/Merriam's turkey exhibit Swerdfeger Construction will contribute site preparation and demolition; Santa Fe Supply and Rental will supply heavy equipment; Larry's Electric will furnish electrician services and the owner will organize a group of masons to construct animal shelters, BAV Construction will build roofs on the animal shelters, and Northstar Engineering will provide discounted surveying services. The Colorado Division of Wildlife will contribute $500 in cash toward graphics at the exhibit. In -kind professional services in the development of graphic displays will be provided by Zoo staff and Division of Wildlife staff including Al Trujillo, Area Wildlife Manager, and Steve Lucero, Education Coordinator for the Southeast Region. Additional Society in -kind services will include collection and preservation of insect specimens. All of the reptile and most of the plant photographs will be donated. Documentation of these in -kind donations is included with this grant application. 2. Support Some of the most valuable support for environmental education resources within the Zoo comes from the Teaching Environmental Science Naturally (TEN) program which has attained state -wide recognition (see enclosed letter). Led by a team representing the Colorado Division of GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society September 29, 1998 page 11 Wildlife, State Parks Department, Bureau of Land Management, Greenway and Nature Center (see enclosed letter), U. S. Forest Service, and School Districts #60 and #70 as well as the Zoo, this program provides a week- long training course for 65 regional teachers each summer. Focusing on environmental education opportunities accessible to school groups, this program is supported in part by a GOCO grant through the Division of Wildlife. Each year a portion of the course is held at the Zoo to familiarize them with programs and facilities available. The Colorado Division of Wildlife encourages efforts to enhance educational opportunities at the Pueblo Zoo, particularly when they focus on local species (see enclosed letter). School Districts #60 and #70 are supportive of all efforts to improve and enhance wildlife educational opportunities at the Zoo as evidenced by enthusiastic participation in programs and by annual grants for education programs at the Zoo( see enclosed letters from students as well as district superintendents). Pueblo County also supports environmental education at the Pueblo Zoo through an annual allocation (see enclosed letter). The Zoo's gardening volunteers will help in plantings and docents will work with Zoo staff in the development of interpretive programs utilizing the proposed exhibit and graphic displays. 3. Cooperation The Zoological Society works closely with the City Planning Department, City Administration, and City Council in developing all long -range plans for the Zoo. That the City and County of Pueblo have been extremely supportive of efforts to improve the Zoo is shown by their annual allocations of capital development funds to the Society. The Division of Wildlife and the Pueblo Parks Department are cooperating with the Society in assuring success of these projects. Project will begin February 15, 1999, and be completed by May 1, 2000. LOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Chant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological society March 5, 1999 page 12 t r. : ' Please note: Applicant is the City of Pueblo, owner of the Pueblo Zoo. •• Please note: Partner is the Pueblo Zoological Society which manages the Pueblo Zoo under a management contract with the City of Pueblo. The Society's cash and in -kind contributions are described in the footnotes accompanying the "Uses of Funds" section of this application. 60 39Vd OS 7VOID070OZ 0793rd 9898- T9S -6TL OS:EZ P66I /8T /01 Budget SOURCES Date GOC'O Applicant" Partner" Total OF FUNDS Secured Request Match Match CASH 1 -15 -99 $70,900 $18,025 $88,700 IN -KIND 3 -30 -99 $21,375 $21,500 Total $70,900 $39,300 110,200 ' Please note: Applicant is the City of Pueblo, owner of the Pueblo Zoo. •• Please note: Partner is the Pueblo Zoological Society which manages the Pueblo Zoo under a management contract with the City of Pueblo. The Society's cash and in -kind contributions are described in the footnotes accompanying the "Uses of Funds" section of this application. 60 39Vd OS 7VOID070OZ 0793rd 9898- T9S -6TL OS:EZ P66I /8T /01 -. 6 1 1MM11311UH 1111 HE OOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society March S. 1999 page 13 USES OF FUNDS #1 Bison /ilk Merria_m's Turkey Rxhihit & Wildlife Interpretive A= including survey, Professional design services, demoiltion & site prep, fencing & screening, Construction of two animal shelters, native plantings, be rwhos At trash receptacles. interprctivo signags and graphics, walkways sr paths, and two teepees lit AmRhibiAns & Reptiles of Puehlo COU= Including photographs, copy research and Production, animal containteents, cage furnishings, design, fabrication, and Installation of graphics and living animal displays Date To Be Spent 3/1/99 - 3/31/00 2/15/99 - 7/31/99 GOCO Funds $65,000 $3,500 Partner Funds 15,225 $2,000 Partner In -Kind $15,275 $1,500 Total $95,500 $7,000 1 Cash includes 55,000 Thatcher Foundation grant, $500 cash from the Colorado Division of Wildlife, and $12,300 cash from the Zoological Society. 2 In -kind contributions are Swerdfeger Construction $4,320 (demolition and site preparation), Santa Fe Supply and Rental $2,000 (use of front end loader), Larry's Electric $4,800 (electrical installation and masonery), B.A.V. Construction $2,500 (construction of animal shelter roofs), and Zoological Society $1,655 (100 hours @ $ 16.55 - construction and plantings). 3 Included is in -kind contribution from Zoological Society $1,500 (75 hours @ $20 - research for, and production of, interpretive copy) V0 39dd 0S 7voio ooz 0 9898 19S-6IL as :5Z b66T /8Z /0Z GOCO Local Government Parks and Outdoor Recreation Grant Application City of Pueblo/Pueblo Zoological Society October 1, 1998 page 14 #3 Insects of Pueblo Area Including insect collection & mounting, copy 3/31/99- research and production, and 11/30/99 $1,200 $ 400 $2,000 $3,600 design, fabrication, and installation of graphic display #4 Flora of Pueblo Area Including, copy research and production, 10/l/99- desigfabrication, 2/28/00 $1,200 400 12 4,100 and installation of graphic display Total $70,900 $17,800 $21,500 $110,200 4 Included is in -kind contribution from Zoological Society $2,000 (collection of insects and research for, and production of, interpretive copy - 100 hours @ $20). 5 Included is in -kind contribution from Zoological Society $2,500 (exhibit rights for 52 photographs @ $25 ea. and research for, and production of, interpretive copy - 60 hours @ $20/hour). c� �r o� E t7 CL -+ CL a c� 41 C �l i i -.§CA M �11 11 1 V� J-1 I I C �7 z x �� � t- t�" � �s k a� �t -'311 ��)�� lean � ;" Vol ii `f�l c�LO �Od I�I�.�� c R�`P� lc �IS�I -�`i 7 1� { ,. � - �� W" PUEBLO -, A,,�COUNTY .�.� w! n� LW w� ww w✓ •: - k U4 kLL -u Vj J WJ W tu .0 -If uwwJ UJ t,�-(A� r- kPi 111 .IWJ u-u � UAJ Mal mo "L.— o�v a / - .- - ; q)J .4-V (INSECTS � � �, s r �� . 6,�+ : �w.. uH�.1�w— J..1.e.N w It W t L �,p u 4 , h ,d ­J %M—V _K* -A"LW 4 uw ou U.-." uv F��O��T � C I&, L t=- I 'Llk ! I' - o ' L�F- FIL �n �I 0 LAST a.� . T 9 lku w — uu1 1 Wes_ Wv la d� • w � �UW JN V 0MU y. ® k0.a�v IU�w. WJ '' 1 11 , .,• I J DWI +U 1 a� cUaJ W 111 4 1 t� j �y �7 a ` u I W ail' t/�.• �tl.� \4Ay/ JAW.. .u+-/ dol W1 wr ,tw lA_ \id'Q� all v .. ��ICU ILlrk V ILA"' cy LLvwl, t41 L.41 XU W W. V i 1 Vol kit* -- t o 4�1 V. 0.il uli� pal. Wu Uu W .Ur v\ �\\ YULiF 1LLa .I�1a S W W J L �tJ U 4W-• ��'.' �. � ��� �,- y P E : Z4�r cAT�?JN i! f � i NG C 'DI gZ -�Y .Y.Y I) APPENDIX B PROJECT EXPENDITURE DOCUMENTATION Enhancement of Environmental Education at Pueblo Zoo _ m Final Report Contact Name and Number: Contract Number: Project Title: Amount of Final Payment Requested: $ GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO Project Cost GOCO Grant Award $ Cash $ In -Kind (labor /materials) $ Total Project Cost $ (Attached documentation should support this number and reflect all funds spent to complete the project) Financial Documentation (see attached example) • Enclose a copy of the approved budget reflecting projected vs. actual expenses to which the following certification must be added and signed: "All documentation submitted in this report reflects only those items which conform to the project description. The project received all applicable permits and is substantially complete at this time ". The budget should also reflect the matching and in -kind resources detailed in the project application. • Attach invoices or purchase orders for all cash expenditures • Enclose cancelled checks or a certified accounting statement that tie directly to the invoices or purchase orders. • For in -kind matching funds, attach an invoice or letter from a vendor stating what their service would normally cost • For volunteer labor, attach a list of the number of volunteer hours spent on each component along with an hourly rate and total. Include documentation to support all account costs including time cards and payroll sheets. • Include documentation to support sponsor -owned equipment costs to include use vouchers and cost summary sheets. Use vouchers and cost summary sheets must be clearly annotated to indicate hours or mileage rates, and costs related to the project. Colorado State Highway Department or locally developed rates may be used. In addition, please: ❑ Label each invoice to a matching proof of payment and expense category on the budget • Include only project related expenses in your report. If necessary, break -out project expenses from non - project expenses when an invoice or payment incorporates both • Provide a picture or slide of the project • Provide evidence of signage acknowledging GOCO grant (include picture or explanation of when signage will be complete)