by Liz Daube
Staff Writer
In the wake of complaints about confusing applications, nonprofits applying for Jacksonville’s 2007-08 public service grants will have to attend mandatory orientation meetings.
Several local nonprofit organizations complained about the wording of last year’s grant applications, arguing that following the instructions caused them to miss their share of $12.3 million in City grants. The previous instructions told continuing program applicants to “stop here” in capital letters. If they misunderstood and failed to complete the application, nonprofit organizations could not qualify for funds.
The grant application is a common one developed by the Human Services Council. The application changes each year based on public comments, according to Sandra Hull-Richardson, assistant management improvement officer for the City’s Department of Community Services.
“We’re removing any language that we deemed might be confusing to any of the users,” she said. Hull-Richardson added that application orientation dates are always posted – along with the applications – on the City’s Community Services Web site.
Unlike previous years, she said, orientation will be required for all City grant applicants.
“It has been strongly suggested, but it has not always been (required),” said Hull-Richardson. She said applicants are “walked through” the application process at the orientations.
At City Council’s Finance Committee meeting on Monday, Council members were asked for any recommendations they had for the application process. Finance chair Kevin Hyde mentioned a subcommittee will be formed soon to address the criteria and standards of the City’s public service grants.
“From a policy standpoint, what are we trying to accomplish with these grants?” he asked.
The new grant application will be posted online Nov. 3. The first nonprofit orientation is planned for Dec. 8.
Other developments at the Finance meeting include:
• Approved, 5-1: $330,000 from the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission for construction of a third barn at the Equestrian Center.
• Approved 6-0: $642,697.99 from Housing and Neighborhoods Department accounts to fund two homebuyer assistance programs, American Dream Downpayment and Headstart to Homeownership.
• Approved, 6-0: $2.2 million for the Florida Department of Transportation for design, construction and real estate acquisition of Collins Road: Rampart to Blanding project.
• Approved, 6-0: $1.1 million ($812,171 in federal grants and $270,724 in local match reserves for federal programs) for the dredging of Goodby’s Creek at 9020 San Jose Blvd.