Item Description:
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Agmt A2412466 with MPCA to host an AmeriCorps member from MN GreenCorps, 09/16/24-08/12/25
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WHEREAS:
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WHEREAS, the Hennepin County Environment and Energy Department has applied for and been selected to host an AmeriCorps member from the Minnesota GreenCorps, a program of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for the 2024-2025 program year; and
WHEREAS, the county is committed to implementing the proposed project as described in the application submitted by the county and in accordance with the position description; and
WHEREAS, the MPCA requires that the county enter into a host site agreement with the MPCA that identifies the terms, conditions, roles, and responsibilities; therefore,
Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that Agreement A2412466 with the MPCA for the provision of a host site to an AmeriCorps member from Minnesota GreenCorps during the period September 16, 2024 through August 12, 2025, be approved and that the County Administrator be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the county.
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Background:
Launched in 2009, Minnesota GreenCorps is a statewide program to help preserve and protect Minnesota’s environment while training a new generation of environmental professionals. This program places AmeriCorps members with local governments, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations around Minnesota to serve for 11 months on environmental projects. The MPCA coordinates the program and pays the GreenCorps member’s stipend and benefits, including premium paid health insurance, assistance with student loan forbearance, and education expenses while working for the host organization. Members also receive training from the MPCA, develop green job skills, gain professional experience, network with environmental professionals, and are paired with a mentor who provides ongoing guidance.
This program is successful in finding capable and passionate people interested in working in the environmental field. The Environment and Energy Department has previously hosted Minnesota GreenCorps members to assist in recycling, waste reduction, environmental education, and forestry. The county has hired three of these past GreenCorps members as permanent staff.
Current Request:
This request is for authorization to approve Agreement A2412466 with the MPCA to host a member from Minnesota GreenCorps during the period of September 16, 2024 through August 12, 2025. The GreenCorps member will assist Environment and Energy’s Land & Water Unit in engagement and outreach with residents, in partnership with the West Metro Water Alliance and its participating watershed management organizations and cities. The GreenCorps member will work on reducing chloride, nutrient, and sediment pollution through water quality improvement projects, and encourage practices that protect water quality among residents, businesses, and communities.
Impact/Outcomes:
This action will support the county’s disparity reduction and climate action priorities through expanded conservation and outreach work in areas of the county identified for environmental justice concern and engage residents most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval