Title
Consider a memorandum/resolution authorizing the execution of an ARPA grant agreement with Workforce Development Board, Inc., dba Workforce Solutions of Central Texas-Killeen, Inc., for the Student Occupational Awareness and Recognition Program, in the amount of $106,911.98.
Body
DATE: August 6, 2024
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Tiffanie McNair, Executive Director of Community Development
SUBJECT: Workforce Solutions of Central Texas-Killeen: SOAR Program
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The City of Killeen appropriated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the purpose of establishing the Killeen Youth Empowerment Program to empower local youth through employment and leadership services. The program targeted for youth from ages 14 to 21 years who were in at-risk and/or enrolled in G.E.D. or alternative high school diploma tract.
Due to difficulties identifying qualified candidates for the program, staff sought an established partner willing and able to provide employment coaching and skills to youth attending Killeen Independent School District (KISD) middle and/or high schools located within Killeen proper as an alternative to administering the program within the city operations.
In March 2024, staff engaged Workforce Solution of Central Texas-Killeen to discuss its youth employment programming options and an opportunity to provide services specifically for KISD students with ARPA grant funds from the city. The Workforce Solution of Central Texas-Killeen representative submitted a proposal for funding for its Student Occupational Awareness and Recognition (SOAR) Program.
The SOAR Program equips students with the necessary tools for career exploration, education, and engagement. Targeting middle and high school students (grades 6-12), the program provides comprehensive career guidance, including access to up-to-date labor market data, aiding students in making informed career decisions and preparing them for the workforce.
The ARPA funding will support the promotion of high-demand jobs and career pathways in the city, fostering enhanced collaboration between employers and students. Additionally, funds will facilitate the expansion of our virtual career exploration program, cover staff time and travel expenses, and provide resources for related events and activities.
On June 4, 2024, Finance staff requested and received a Motion of Direction from City Council to reappropriate certain ARPA funds which included funding for Workforce Solutions of Central Texas-Killeen for the SOAR Program. This item is to obtain authorization from City Council to authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute an ARPA subrecipient grant agreement for youth employment services with Workforce Solutions of Central Texas-Killeen in the amount of $106,911.98.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
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Which alternative is recommended? Why?
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CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
Yes. This item conforms to all applicable policies.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the revenue/expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
The amount is $106,911.98 in FY 2024. No expenses are expected for this project in future fiscal years.
Is this a one-time or recurring revenue/expenditure?
This is a one-time expenditure with fixed costs.
Is this revenue/expenditure budgeted?
Yes, funds are budgeted in the General Fund Non-Departmental account 010-9501-491-50-86.
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this revenue/expenditure?
Yes
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that City Council authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute a grant agreement with Workforce Solutions of Central Texas-Killeen for the Student Occupational Awareness and Recognition (SOAR) Program in the amount of $106,911.98.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Finance
Legal
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Agreement
Presentation