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Consider approving a Project Funding Agreement with Lawton Public Schools, subject to Lawton Public Schools also approving the agreement, and once the agreement is approved by both parties, allocate to Lawton Public Schools an amount up to $150,000.00 from the PROPEL CIP in accordance with the intent of Resolution 23-75, Section C.5 to provide funding for youth programs, as recommended by the Youth and Family Affairs Committee.
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INITIATOR: Councilperson Mary Ann Hankins
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: Christine James, Internal Auditor; Joe Don Dunham, Finance Director; Donalynn Blazek-Scherler, City Clerk
BACKGROUND: Created in 2021, the LPS Makerspace Camp was formed to create a STEM pipeline where LPS students have an educational pathway starting with a strong exploratory foundation in elementary leading to specialized classes at the secondary level in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and eventual careers to help grow LPS graduates into Lawton citizens. Makerspace Camp promotes STEM learning opportunities to low-income students as well as promoting STEM careers through positive hands-on experiences. LPS Makerspace Camp will offer STEM learning 4 days a week for the month of June with activities base around several STEM concepts, including Legos, aviation, Esports, culinary, drones, 3D printing, multimedia, and STEM without Borders. Future goals include increasing the number of students in the program, expanding new and exciting units in the camp, building community partnerships, expand to include middle school camps and high school mentors, and field trips to learn more about STEAM careers. LPS expects to serve approximately 400 low-income students with the Makerspace Camp. Staffing includes 2 full time employees, 47 part-time employees, and 10 volunteers. The requested funding would be used for employee salaries and wages, supplies, and transportation.
EXHIBIT: Draft Project Funding Agreement with Lawton Public Schools; Lawton Public Schools YFAC Application
KEY ISSUES: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE: PROPEL CIP, Resolution 23-75 Section C.5 (Youth Programs). Fund: YOUTHPROG-RECREAT 4400000-52090. 2019 CIP Youth Programs beginning balance was $6,000,000.00. The current balance, if the January 23rd budget amendment is approved, is $5,307,870.88. Youth Programs 23-24 CIP budget allocation was $300,000.00. The current Youth Programs budget balance is $134,360.00. With approval of a budget amendment on 01/23/24, the balance will be $369,861.00. Pending applications total $369,861.00. If this application is approved, the remaining balance is $219,861.00. If all applications are approved on 01.23.24, the balance of the Youth Programs 23-24 CIP budget allocation will be $0.00.
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Approve a Project Funding Agreement with Lawton Public Schools, subject to Lawton Public Schools also approving the agreement, and once the agreement is approved by both parties, allocate to Lawton Public Schools an amount up to $150,000.00 from the PROPEL CIP in accordance with the intent of Resolution 23-75, Section C.5 to provide funding for youth programs, as recommended by the Youth and Family Affairs Committee.