Title
Consider and take action on a resolution establishing the Community Green Space Irrigation Grant Program pursuant to Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code (Mayor Long, Councilmember Tressler, and Councilmember Saunders)
Background:
The City of League City proposes to establish the Community Green Space Irrigation Grant Program to support non-commercial green space development by offsetting Capital Recovery Fees (CRFs) through an internal fund transfer. This Chapter 380 program is designed to encourage the creation and preservation of landscaped areas such as parks, medians, stormwater detention zones, and HOA common areas that enhance public beautification, environmental sustainability, and recreational access.
The program will provide financial support for qualifying irrigation infrastructure by covering assessed CRFs through a transfer from the General Fund to the CRF Fund. No direct payments or reimbursements will be issued. This initiative reflects the City’s broader commitment to improving livability and green infrastructure without weakening the integrity of the City’s capital planning.
Program Summary
Grant awards will match the CRF amount assessed on qualifying irrigation meters. The program is administered by the City Manager’s Office, with authority to approve individual grants up to $100,000 without further Council action. To maintain accountability, the grant is subject to clawback if the project is not completed within one year of approval or if the irrigated space is not maintained for at least five years.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible projects must involve dedicated open space used exclusively for irrigation (no potable or indoor use) with a meter no larger than two inches (preferably 1.5 inches) and subject to review and approval by the City Manager. The land must be legally restricted as common or green space by plat note, deed restriction, or other enforceable instrument. Only nonprofit organizations, homeowners’ associations, and public entities may apply. Developers, homebuilders, or those acting in a development capacity are not eligible.
In addition, the project must be located within a platted subdivision or development that is at least 90% built-out, as determined by the City Manager or designee. Applicants must demonstrate that the project serves a public purpose such as beautification, access to open space, stormwater benefit, or recreation. Required materials include a site plan, proof of ownership and land restriction, a CRF invoice, build-out documentation, and a completed City grant application.
Administration and Oversight
The program will be administered solely by the City Manager’s Office and is subject to annual appropriation by City Council. Grants are awarded at the discretion of the City Manager and are not guaranteed. The program may be amended or terminated at any time by Council resolution.
Reporting
The City Manager’s Office will maintain records for each approved project, including its location, CRF offset amount, public purpose, and executed agreement. An annual report will be provided to Council summarizing the total number of grants awarded, total acreage impacted, and an evaluation of public benefit.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. Exhibit A - Community Green Space Irrigation Grant Program
FUNDING
{X} NOT APPLICABLE
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{X} Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor #1, Initiative #1, Items A, E, G, H, I, & K_