Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
H2Ohio Chloride Reduction Grants are available on a competitive basis from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) for 2026. The purpose of these awards is to reduce chloride pollution caused by road salt during harsh winter weather. The City of Columbus is an eligible applicant.
This legislation will authorize the Director of Public Service to execute project agreements for approved projects with OEPA or others in connection with the award of the grant, the expenditure of grant funds, and the return of unused grant funds if any should remain at the end of the grant.
2. FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of this legislation will authorize the Director of Public Service to accept grant awards received from the OEPA. The grants are 100% reimbursable, up to $75,000.00. Additional funds are not required if project bids are under $75,000.00.
3. EMERGENCY DESIGNATION
Emergency action is requested to enable the Department of Public Service with the authorization to proceed with accepting OEPA funds within grant funding timelines.
Title
To authorize the Auditor's Office to accept and expend relative to the 2026 H2Ohio Chloride Reduction Grants with Ohio Environmental Protection Agency; to authorize the Director of the Department of Public Service to accept grant awards and execute grant and other requisite agreements with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and other entities providing for the acceptance and administration of said grant; to authorize the expenditure of any awarded funds and the refund of any unused funds; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
Body
WHEREAS, Special Assistance Grants are awarded on a competitive basis by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for reducing chloride pollution caused by road salt during harsh winter weather; and
WHEREAS, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency accepted applications for the current funding round through February 6, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Director of Public Service is au...
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