RMC Proposition 68 Project Goals and Objectives: Create, expand, and/or improve public open space throughout the region by improving water quality supply, create, enhance or improve a reliable water supply and/or restore an important species and habitat Improve access to open space and low impact recreation for all communities and promote healthy lifestyles Improve habitat quality, quantity, and connectivity through creation, enhancement, preservation, and restoration Connect open space with a network of trails, accessible as appropriate to the site Promote stewardship of the landscape via stakeholder involvement and long-term maintenance(long-term means for a period not less than 20 years) Encourage sustainable growth that balances environmental, social, and economic benefits Maintain and improve flood protection through natural and non-structural systems and ecosystem restoration Establish riverfront greenways to cleanse water, hold floodwaters and extend open space Optimize water resources by improving the quality of surface and ground water and enhance groundwater recharge, to reduce dependence on imported water Coordinate watershed planning across jurisdictions and boundaries Encourage multi-jurisdictional and multi-beneficial planning and implementation projects Involve the public through education and outreach programs Projects will utilize the best available science to inform decisions regarding, state and local water resources. In addition, special consideration will be given to projects that employ new or innovative technology or practices, including decision support tools that support the integration of multiple jurisdictions, including, but not limited to, water supply, flood control, land use, and sanitation. Applications: Applications will be submitted in two phases: a Concept Proposal and a Full Application. Applicants will first submit a Concept Proposal that will be reviewed by RMC staff for consistency with RMC goals, any specific program priorities, and the strength of the proposed project. In addition, RMC staff will look at all Concept Proposals for location, need, project type, readiness, threats, cost, and cost share. RMC staff will offer applicants feedback regarding alignment with priorities, overall merit, and any ineligible costs. RMC staff will select Concept Proposals to move forward and will invite selected applicants to submit Full Applications. Applicants will be provided the Full Application upon RMC invitation. RMC staff are available to work with Applicants during the preparation of the Full Application, as needed. RMC may request Applicants to revise and resubmit Full Applications, as necessary. It is strongly recommended that prospective applicants contact RMC staff for a consultation prior to submitting a Concept Proposal.
