Agenda - 09-06-2016 - 6-o - North Carolina Department of Transportation Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) Grant Application for FY 2017

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2 recipient's workplace, job interviews, job fairs, job readiness activities, or GED classes. The funds may also be used to transport the children of a qualified recipient to child care. OPT has provided rural general public transportation on a seat-available basis for many years on three (3) deviated fixed-routes (one Hillsborough area route and two transfer routes from the Chapel Hill area) that are also designed to provide transportation to work opportunities and programs for persons with developmental disabilities. The FY 2017 RGP allocation is $71,537. The period of performance for FY 2017 Rural Operating Assistance Program funds is July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The RGP segment of the ROAP funding allocation requires a 10% local match ($7,153.70), which OPT has incorporated into its FY 2016-17 budget. OPT estimates the anticipated amount to be received in preparation for upcoming budget years, but traditionally does not apply for and receive the funding until October or November of the subject budget year/period of performance. For FY2017 the initial application was submitted August 22, 2016 and the signed application is due September 7, 2016. Funding will be disbursed quarterly. Orange County was awarded a total of $168,933 for FY 2015-16, which results in a $17,016 increase in ROAP funding from FY 2015-16 to FY 2016-17. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are associated with this item: • GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND INEQUITY The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color; religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential or economic status. • GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their dependents. The ROAP grant application gives Orange County access to funding that supports valuable transportation services specifically for elderly persons and persons with disabilities, populations that tend to have fewer transportation options than other segments of the population. The services provided that will make use of the funding will also provide an inexpensive alternative to travel by personal vehicle that will help facilitate economic self-sufficiency by expanding transportation options for populations exhibiting the greatest need. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board: 1. Approve the application for Rural Operating Assistance Program and accept funding totaling $185,949 for FY 2017; and 2. Authorize the County Manager and County Finance Officer to sign the Certified Statement of Participation.