October 1, 2004 was the deadline for submitting questions regarding the
Reuse Assistance Grants. Please note that
only the questions and answers listed below apply to this grant offering.
Q. Is the two-year term for the maximum award of $50,000 spread over
the two years or is it $50,000 per year for two years?
A. The maximum award of $50,000 is for the entire term of the
grant—approximately two years.
Q. Can you clarify the definition of reuse versus recycle? I used the
word "recycle" in my description of our project; however, what we are using
is asphalt that is merely crunched down mechanically to a gravel
consistency. I am not sure if that isn't just "reusing" it. Essentially, we
are using asphalt that would otherwise go to a landfill. Please help me
understand the difference between the two terms.
A. Reuse is defined as using an item over again in its current
form without significant processing that alters its material structure.
For the purpose of the Reuse Assistance Grants, "significant processing"
is defined as changing the form of an item to the extent that the item
is not capable of being used again for its original purpose. This
includes, but is not limited to, chemical alteration, composting,
recycling, grinding, milling, melting, transformation, etc. While the
proposed project would recycle used asphalt back into an asphalt
application, the mechanical crushing of the material to a gravel
consistency would fall outside the Reuse Assistance Grants' narrow
definition of reuse, and would not be considered an eligible project. A
similar example would be the recycling of bottles into crushed glass,
versus the direct reuse of bottles as bottles.
Q. I am very confused by the response to the question above. Asphalt
that is crushed to a gravel-like consistency CAN be reused to pave a
surface, or be mixed with some other materials to pave a surface, thereby
returning it to its "original purpose". This cannot really be compared to
the crushing of bottles into glass that is used for something else. Can you
clarify or provide additional examples?
A. Crushing asphalt down to gravel would be considered
significant processing, and therefore would fall outside the definition
of reuse and be ineligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant. In order to be
considered "reuse," a material must not be significantly processed,
whether or not the material is returned to use for its "original
purpose".
Q. If our grant proposal is selected, when would the grant be
officially funded? July 1, 2005 after the new fiscal year or before that
date? Our newspaper-advertising representative noted yesterday that the
numbers she has given us could change by five percent next year. With that
in mind, and the fact that quite a large amount of funds are going to be
thrown at countywide outreach, should we include the proposed dollar amount
plus the projected five percent increase and put THAT dollar figure in the
budget?
A. It is anticipated that the grant proposals that are
selected for funding will be awarded at a Board meeting in early 2005.
Grant agreements will be developed immediately following the awards, and
it is anticipated that Grantees will be able to begin their projects
after receiving a Notice to Proceed. This should occur well before July
1, 2005.
As stated in the instructions for completing the Budget (page 20),
applicants are to provide recent quotes and estimates for all costs and
indicate on each quote/estimate to which Budget Item it belongs. If you
receive a quote from the newspaper advertiser who states the quote may
increase by five percent next year, indicate this on the quote and
include the proposed dollar amount plus the projected five percent
increase in the budget. It is important to include all possible costs in
the budget, as once the awards are made, Grantees cannot increase the
amount of their award.
Q. In the application package, it indicates that the applicant needs
to have evidence (by Program Supervisor) that agency staff time claimed as
grant expenditures or matching contribution is representative of task
requirements and of staff wages. It seems this should already be provided in
the applicant's budget. May we reference our budget as supporting
documentation if we add a statement at the bottom that indicates all agency
staff costs are representative of staff base wages, plus (18 percent)
benefits, and provide a signature line for our program supervisor? We
generally also identify each key staff name and classification by task in
the budget itself.
A. Yes, you may reference your budget as supporting
documentation if you add a statement at the bottom that indicates all
agency staff costs are representative of staff base wages, plus (18
percent) benefits, and provide a signature line for your program
supervisor.
Q. Are nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations eligible for the Reuse
Assistance Grants? How about a County's Office of Education?
A. While only California local public agencies (e.g., city, county,
regional agency) are eligible as the applicants for a Reuse Assistance
Grant, they may partner with any other entity (e.g., business,
nonprofit, etc.). For example, a nonprofit organization could partner
with a County Office of Education, with the County as the applicant, and
the nonprofit as the partner.
Q. Are federal agencies eligible to participate?
A. While federal agencies are not eligible to apply individually for a
grant, federal agencies may partner with a California local public agency
(e.g., city, county, etc.) to apply for a grant. The local public agency
would be the applicant (the entity that applies for the grant), and the
federal agency would be the partner. If awarded a grant, the local public
agency will be: (1) responsible for supervising and administering the grant;
(2) accountable for how the grant funds are expended; and, (3) responsible
for requesting and disbursing grant funds.
Q. Would my agency be eligible to submit a grant application? The ESJPA
is a Joint Powers Authority comprised of 21 member counties (public
agencies) for the purpose of providing environmental services for their
respective jurisdictions.
A. As long as the Joint Powers Authority has obligations to develop and
implement waste reduction programs pursuant to the requirements set forth in
Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq., it would be eligible to apply.
Q. Our ReStore has taken in 138 tons of usable building material from
April 2003 to June 2004. We recycle those materials by selling them to the
general public for reuse in their homes of rental property. Our biggest need
right now is a one ton truck with lift to pick up building materials and to
pay for marketing our services to potential donors and people wanting to
purchase usable building materials that have been diverted from the
landfill. Would these items be eligible for the proposal? Both would
increase our capacity to divert materials from the landfill. Our agency
works with the County Resource Management Agency's Solid Waste Division. I
understand that the actual proposal has to come from them.
A. As long as the materials are reused, and not "recycled" as mentioned
above, such a project could be eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant. As the
Habitat ReStore is a non-local public agency, the ReStore would need to
partner with a California local public agency, and the actual
proposal/application would need to be submitted by the local public agency,
with the local public agency as the applicant.
Q. We are a nonprofit disabled veteran re-training program. We utilize
donations of used computers and e-waste from local counties and business to
create jobs for the disabled and senior citizens. Would we be eligible
(working with a local city agency) for a Reuse Assistance Grant to obtain
and rebuild this e-waste into sellable and donateable products?
A. As described, the project could be considered eligible for a Reuse
Assistance Grant, provided a California local public agency is the
applicant, and your organization is the partner.
Q. Can School Districts apply for this grant?
A. Schools and school districts are eligible to partner with a
California local public agency (e.g., a city, county, or regional agency
that has obligations to develop and implement waste reduction programs
pursuant to the requirements of the Public Resources Code § 40900 et
seq.) for a Reuse Assistance Grant. The local public agency will be the
applicant for the grant, and therefore, if awarded the grant, will be:
(1) responsible for supervising and administering the grant; (2)
accountable for how the grant funds are expended; and, (3) responsible
for requesting and disbursing grant funds.
Q. We need further clarification on the eligibility of the ESJPA:
as a Joint Powers Authority, the JPA represents member counties who have
the "obligation" to develop and implement waste reduction programs
pursuant to PR Code 40900. The JPA, as an agency, does not have this
"obligation" pursuant to PR Code 40900. For example, the JPA assists
member counties in complying with the requirements of PR Code 40900
through various regional programs generally funded by grants. However,
the JPA does not represent these member counties in terms of a "Regional
Agency" and does not have the obligation to submit annual reports
regarding source reduction and recycling elements on behalf of its
member counties. Does this preclude the JPA from submitting a regional
application as the lead agency on behalf of one or more of its member
counties?
A. To be eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant, an applicant
must have obligations to develop and implement waste reduction programs
pursuant to the requirements of the Public Resources Code § 40900 et
seq. If the ESJPA, as an agency, does not have this "obligation", it
would not be eligible to submit an application by itself, but could
partner with a local public agency, with the local public agency as the
applicant, and the ESJPA as the partner. The applicant is responsible
for reporting and complying with all provisions listed in the Terms and
Conditions and Procedures and Requirements of the Grant Agreement.
Q. We are considering applying for a Reuse Assistance Grant (RAG).
We operate a computer refurbishing program at a Community College
District. Our proposal is to reuse old computers by refurbishing them
and giving them to disadvantaged college students.
Are we an eligible applicant according to the eligibility
requirements? The NOFA states: "The RAGs are available to California
local public agencies. For the purposes of this offering, a 'local
public agency' is a city, county, or regional agency that has
obligations to develop and implement waste reduction programs pursuant
to the requirements of Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq."
A. While universities and school districts are ineligible to
apply individually, they may partner with a local public agency (a city,
county, special district, or regional agency that has obligations to
develop and implement waste reduction programs pursuant to the
requirements of Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq.) for a Reuse
Assistance Grant. The local public agency would be the applicant (the
entity that applies for the grant), and the university or school
district would be the partner. If awarded a grant, the local public
agency will be: (1) responsible for supervising and administering the
grant; (2) accountable for how the grant funds are expended; and, (3)
responsible for requesting and disbursing grant funds (i.e., to the
university or school district).
Q. Can a California State University be an applicant? If not, we would plan
on having the City or County's Economic Development Agency as the applicant.
A. Universities are eligible to partner with a California
local public agency (e.g., a city, county, or regional agency that has
obligations to develop and implement waste reduction programs pursuant
to the requirements of the Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq.) for a
Reuse Assistance Grant. The local public agency will be the applicant
for the grant, and therefore, if awarded the grant, will be: (1)
responsible for supervising and administering the grant; (2) accountable
for how the grant funds are expended; and, (3) responsible for
requesting and disbursing grant funds.
Q. I have noticed that the reuse program is narrow in its level to
reuse products because the fitted requirements only pertain to a small few.
In Riverside, California, it only fits the local waste companies, because of
the large start up expense to actually pick up and store large amounts of
reusable items.
It seems that the Reuse Assistance Grants program will not work for a small
firm like mine because there is no capital to hire employees nor equipment
or lease a warehouse big enough to store reusable equipment. So how does
this grant benefit the community or very small businesses?
A. Small businesses are eligible to partner with a California
local public agency (e.g., a city, county, or regional agency) that has
obligations to develop and implement waste reduction programs pursuant
to the requirements of the Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq.) for a
Reuse Assistance Grant. The local public agency will be the applicant
for the grant, and therefore, if awarded the grant, will be: (1)
responsible for supervising and administering the grant; (2) accountable
for how the grant funds are expended; and, (3) responsible for
requesting and disbursing grant funds.
The matching contribution may be provided by the local public agency,
the partnering entity, or a combination of both. The Reuse Assistance
Grants are intended to benefit the community by providing the initiative
and incentives for local public agencies to promote and apply the
concept of reuse by developing or expanding reuse activities at the
local level.
Additionally, eligible projects do not necessarily require warehouses,
equipment, or employees. Often, the local public agency employees work
on the grant project, eliminating the need to hire employees.
Descriptions of past projects that have been awarded are described at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/reuse/Grants/LGAssist/Archives.htm. Please note
that there is no guarantee that similar projects will be awarded a grant
in this grant cycle.
Q. I am trying to determine the applicability of the Reuse Assistance
Grants program to the need of our city. As a geographically small
municipality (3.2 square miles) with no industrial sector, and a very small
commercial sector, I'm not sure what types of "fundable" activities we could
apply for. The city contracts for all public works projects and the majority
of its residents (over 95 percent) live within the city's retirement
community. Can you provide any ideas? We would love to participate in the
program, but we're not sure if we're an appropriate jurisdiction for the
available funding.
A. As long as the city has obligations to develop and
implement waste reduction programs pursuant to the requirements set
forth in Public Resources Code § 40900 et seq., it would be eligible to
apply. An eligible Reuse Assistance Grant project uses an item over
again in its current form without significant processing that alters its
material structure. For the purpose of the Reuse Assistance Grants,
"significant processing" is defined as changing the form of an item to
the extent that the item is not capable of being used again for its
original purpose.
Q. We are a Joint Powers Authority, organized and operating since 1992
under California Government Code section 6500. The JPA shares the common
power of its eight members to plan and carry out waste diversion programs.
The JPA Board is comprised of elected officials from the governing body of
each of our members. The JPA has applied for and continues to receive grant
funds from CIWMB, including 2004 funding under a resolution authorizing
application for all grants under the California Integrated Waste Management
Act. Since the JPA is a public agency per GC 6500, please clarify that we
are a single applicant/local public agency for purposes of the Exhibit G
resolution.
Below is an excerpt from our resolution (it was used in support of an
approved 2004 CIWMB's Used Oil Block Grant):
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-
A Resolution of the Mojave Desert and Mountain Integrated Waste Management
Authority Designating the Person Authorized to Execute All CIWMB
Grant-Related Documents:
WHEREAS, the Mojave Desert and Mountain Integrated Waste Management
Authority (the JPA) was organized to provide regional waste management
programs throughout San Bernardino's High Desert and Mountain area; and
WHEREAS, the JPA includes Apple Valley, Barstow, Big Bear Lake, Needles,
Twentynine Palms, Victorville, Yucca Valley and San Bernardino County; and
WHEREAS, the JPA will submit grant funding applications to the California
Integrated Waste Management Board, including Waste Tire Enforcement Grants;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
The Mojave Desert and Mountain Integrated Waste Management Authority
Administrator, John Davis, is authorized to execute all California
Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) grant-related documents on behalf
of the Authority.
A. The Resolution, as described, indicates the Mojave Desert
and Mountain Integrated Waste Management Authority is a single
applicant/local public agency for purposes of the Exhibit G resolution,
and would suffice for the Reuse Assistance Grant requirement. A
resolution may be valid for a maximum of five years, if specified in the
resolution.
Q. Other than the requirements specified in the NOFA, is there a
certain type of applicant that is typically more competitive than other
applicants?
A. There is not a certain type of applicant that is typically
more competitive than other applicants; eligible applicants are
California local public agencies only. The California local public
agency may partner with any other entity (e.g., business, nonprofit,
etc.). While there is not a certain type of applicant that is typically
more competitive than other applicants, applicants who are eligible for
(receive a minimum 75 points in the General Review Criteria) and
demonstrate in the Preference Criteria portion of their application that
their proposed project meets the Preference Criteria may be more
competitive than applicants who do not receive Preference Criteria
points.
Q. Are overhead and indirect costs, above the five percent (5%) limit
for projects costs, eligible to be included as a matching contribution? Our
County's overhead rate is much higher than five percent (5%).
A. No, a grantee may claim overhead and indirect costs up to
five percent (5%) of the amount approved for payment, whether paid for
with grant funds or the matching contributions. Overhead and indirect
costs are expenditures not capable of being assigned and not readily
itemized to a particular project or activity, but considered necessary
for the operation of the organization and the performance of the grant.
Examples of overhead and indirect costs include, but are not limited to,
costs of operating and maintaining facilities, administrative services,
and administrative and supervisory salaries.
Q. Can I apply for grant money to pay the salary for a staff member to
manage our ReStore?
A. Yes, grant funds could be used to pay the salary for a
staff member to manage a ReStore. The value of staff time of local
public agencies, nonprofits, commercial businesses, private
contractors/subcontractors, or volunteers may be used provided the time
is dedicated solely to the performance of the grant project.
Documentation evidencing staff salaries is required. The value of the
volunteers' labor must be comparable to the salaries of the staff in
similar positions; supporting documentation showing that the salaries
are comparable is required.
Q. Can I apply for grant money to pay for hard assets such as a
forklift?
A. Grant funds could be used to purchase hard assets, such as
a forklift, provided: 1) the asset is critical to the implementation of
the Reuse Assistance Grant project; 2) the asset will be used
exclusively for the project; 3) the cost is reasonable; 4) the asset is
appropriate for the designated purpose; 5) the asset is pre-approved by
the CIWMB's Grant Manager; and 6) the asset will be used for the
purposes of the project even when the Grantee is no longer receiving
grant funds.
Q. We are interested in setting up a computer reuse/refurbishing
program with this grant. One of the costs associated with running an
electronics reuse program is for the recycling/disposal of material that
comes in that cannot be reused. There is no possible way to run a successful
electronics reuse program without having a way to recycle/dispose of items
that cannot be reused. Can part of the grant money be used to cover the
recycling/disposal costs?
A. Reuse Assistance Grant funds and the matching contribution
may not be expended on the recycling or disposal of materials, whether
or not the materials can be reused. Electronic products are a preferred
material type for this grant offering, and it is recognized that the
need to recycle or dispose of items that cannot be reused exists in many
reuse programs. While grant and/or matching funds may cover the reuse
portion of an electronics reuse program, grant and/or matching funds may
not be used to cover recycling/disposal costs.
The CIWMB encourages the applicant to secure necessary funding for
these ineligible costs, such as corporate or business sponsorship,
separate from Reuse Assistance Grant funds, recognizing that
recycling/disposal costs would not be eligible as a matching
contribution or a fundable grant expense.
Q. We take in mixed loads of construction and demolition material. As
part of this grant we would like to buy a screen so we could recover the
small size material (e.g., gravel, rocks, etc.) and reuse that as gravel
without any processing. The larger material (e.g., wood, etc.) is currently
sorted out and already being recovered for reuse. Under this scenario, would
the purchase of a screen qualify as an eligible grant expenditure?
A. As described, such a purchase could be considered an
eligible expenditure.
Q. We have an existing recycle reuse database; however, it has not
been upgraded since the late 1980s. Our main goal is to expand the reuse
fields of information, and also to sort it out from the recycling companies.
Would this be appropriate use of Reuse Assistance Grant funds?
In order to generate future funds, we are also thinking of creating
advertisement slots on our Web site; would it be appropriate to use Reuse
Assistance Grants to set up this project?
Could we use in-kind operations (volunteers) as our matching funds, and to
teach the system to local businesses?
A. Reuse Assistance Grant funds and/or matching funds could be
used only for the reuse portion of the database. Regarding creating
advertisement slots on your Web site, again, Reuse Assistance Grant
funds can only be used for the reuse portion of the database, not the
advertisement slots. In-kind operations (volunteers) can be used to meet
the matching requirement, as long as pre-approved, in writing, by the
CIWMB Grant Manager.
Q. When partnering with a nonprofit organization involved in the
distribution of food, is the purchase of food to undertake educational and
nutritional project objectives an allowable expense?
A. No, the purchase of food to undertake educational and
nutritional project objectives is not an allowable expense. Eligible
projects and expenditures must be directly related to the reuse of
material(s).
Q. A local thrift store receives a large amount of clothing that
cannot be sold due to rips or missing buttons, zippers, etc. If we cut up
the clothing, and hemmed and sewed the clothing into something new like napkins,
hats, etc., would that qualify as reuse or would it be considered
processing? The thrift store is currently making rags out of the old
clothing and towels, but it seems that some of these items could be
remade into more useful things such as washcloths, dish towels, dish rags,
hats, scarves, pillows, etc. The thrift store would need sewing machines
and need to be able to develop patterns and market them.
A. On the surface, the activities described could be
considered reuse, as it appears that minimal processing is involved.
Items to consider are the
scope of such a project and, depending on the products to be created,
the degree of processing that would result in the activity no longer
being considered a reuse activity, but instead become remanufacturing or
recycling.
Please note that it is anticipated that this offering will be highly
competitive, and the more clearly a proposed project adheres to the
concept of reuse and aligns with preference criteria, the better the
chances of award.
Q. In my research on reuse of computer monitors I have learned that
some people send working monitors to China. I have also learned that this is
a contentious issue because China does not have adequate systems in place to
deal with e-waste. Does the CIWMB support programs that send working
monitors to China?
A. While electronics are a priority focus of the Reuse
Assistance Grants, a project proposal that involves the export of
electronic products would be viewed with concern. The CIWMB is aware of
the history of inappropriately-handled e-waste, some of which has ended
up in the far East, and the fact that the CIWMB would have little or no
control or accountability of what happens to the material exported would
raise a red flag. The intent of the Reuse Assistance Grants is to
benefit California local public agencies and other California entities,
and, in general, the beneficiaries of the materials reused are preferred
to be Californians.
Q. Would a battery reuse program (i.e., collecting spent batteries and
educating/encouraging people and departments in the County to purchase and
use only rechargeable batteries) be an eligible project? Grant funds would
be used for education and to purchase approximately three rechargers so we
could provide convenient battery recharging stations.
A. Since the Reuse Assistance Grants are for the reuse of non-hazardous materials
only, the collection of spent batteries would not be considered an
eligible project. Regarding the other aspect of the proposed project
(educating on the importance of purchasing rechargeable batteries and
purchasing three rechargers), while it is an admirable project, it would
not be ranked as competitively as a project that is reusing a material
that has already become a "waste" and that is currently being disposed.
Q. We represent the seven incorporated jurisdictions and the
unincorporated areas of the County. Currently, there is no mixed
construction and demolition (C&D) sorting
facility in existence, although one handler has applied for a permit and
should have a mixed C&D yard in operation soon. There are several inert
handlers in the County who will take sorted materials (e.g., concrete,
asphalt, metals, etc.). All the jurisdictions are in the process of
implementing a C&D ordinance and will be including a way for contractors to
avoid weighing and sorting the C&D debris if they use a "certified C&D
handler". The JPA will certify the facilities, which are all privately
owned. We would like to offer an incentive to the contractors to use
certified C&D handlers because these facilities will be providing the JPA
with weight tickets and recycled end-use facilities, etc. Could Reuse
Assistance Grant funds be used to pay some portion of tipping fees? Is there
some other way we can offer incentives to contractors?
A. The Reuse Assistance Grants cannot be used to pay tipping
fees for C&D processing. Fundamentally the purpose of the Reuse
Assistance Grants is to establish ongoing reuse enterprises, not simply
sorting operations, whether or not they are "certified" to handle C&D.
Q. We need grant assistance in finding office and warehouse space
for the JPA as we are being transferred from one jurisdiction to another. We
have found property to locate our facility. If we can find a contractor to
construct an office and warehouse out of used materials, would this qualify
under the Reuse Assistance Grant criteria? What percentage of the materials
would have be reused in order to qualify?
A. The facility, regardless of what it is constructed of,
would need to be dedicated to materials reuse, not offices.
Fundamentally, the purpose of the Reuse Assistance Grants is to establish
ongoing reuse enterprises, not simply buildings for offices.
Q. We would like to know what the parameters of this offering of the
Reuse Assistance Grants are (i.e., is there a list of what this grant
covers?). For example, would grant funds cover the following: 1) The set up
of technology, and ongoing technology such as automatic updates and upgrades
or Web site hosting over a two or three year period; 2) Marketing an online
materials exchange program to the general public via marketing consulting
services, design and layout of communications, printing and distribution via
mail; and/or 3) Specific marketing such as to the Construction & Demolition
industry including the above marketing services?
A. The Reuse Assistance Grants are intended to foster creative
and productive projects that reuse an item over again in its current
form without significant processing that alters its material
structure. The Reuse Assistance Grants are intended to advance the
practical implementation of reuse activities through California. They
are also designed to enhance local public agencies' responsibilities in
the area of material reuse, encourage local public agencies to
incorporate reuse activities into their waste reduction efforts, and
promote reuse to their communities.
This offering's primary purpose is to encourage the establishment of
tangible and long-term systems, infrastructure, projects, and/or
facilities that recover materials for reuse that are otherwise destined
for disposal. This offering's intent is to increase reuse opportunities
for both the commercial and public sectors.
Ineligible projects include, but are not limited to, feasibility
studies, composting, grasscycling, wood milling/grinding, and recycling
projects.
Please review the application instructions for more detailed
information on the parameters for this offering.
Q. We have opened a new fairgrounds and have construction projects
ongoing on the grounds, one in particular that involves using recycled
asphalt aggregate obtained from Waste Management to "pave" a 40-acre dirt
parking area. By spreading and rolling the aggregate, we create a surface
that minimizes dust and becomes rather hard as it is baked by the desert
heat. Would this project qualify for grant funding? Additionally, can grant
funds be applied to this project retroactively as it is a
project-in-progress on the grounds?
A. Projects using recycled (not reused) materials are
considered ineligible projects.
Grant funds cannot be applied to projects retroactively. For awarded
projects, all eligible costs must be incurred and invoices received by
the CIWMB after the issuance of the Start Work Notice and before the end
of the grant term.
Q. Would the fact that expenditures have already been incurred make my
proposal ineligible?
A. Grant funds cannot be applied to projects retroactively.
For awarded projects, all eligible costs must be incurred and invoices
received by the Board after the issuance of the Start Work Notice and
before the end of the grant term.
Q. Our county, in an effort to keep cooking oil from being dumped down
homeowners' kitchen sinks, is considering a curb side cooking oil collection
program similar to our used motor oil collection program. In order to
qualify for Reuse Assistance Grants would the cooking oil have to be reused
as cooking oil, or could the cooking oil be reused as motor oil? Could the
cooking oil be reused by a rendering facility as an oil and or grease
product?
A. In order to qualify for a Reuse Assistance Grant, the cooking oil
would have to be reused without significant processing. Please note that it
is anticipated that this offering will be highly competitive, and the more
clearly a proposed project adheres to the concept of reuse and aligns with
preference criteria, the better the chances of award.
Q. Could automotive recycling fit into this category? Currently our local
government uses new OEM parts for fleet vehicles rather than rebuilt or
recycled OEM parts. Automotive recycling is the purest form of recycling — reuse,
as well as being the world's oldest, largest, and most organized recycling
effort. Is it conceivable that county or city governments could apply for
this grant to use recycled OEM auto parts?
A. The Reuse Assistance Grants are intended to establish or enhance
projects or programs that develop a durable infrastructure for the reuse of
items and materials—projects that simply consume reused or recycled
products or materials are not necessarily ineligible in and of themselves,
but may not be the most competitive. The Reuse Assistance Grants are
intended to foster creative and productive projects that reuse items over
again in their current form without significant processing that alters their
material structure. A project that reuses auto parts could be considered
eligible; however, please note that it is anticipated that this offering
will be highly competitive, and the more clearly a proposed project adheres
to the concept of reuse and aligns with preference criteria, the better the
chances of award.
Q. We are a nonprofit disabled veteran re-training program. We utilize
donations of used computers and e-waste from local counties and business to
create jobs for the disabled and senior citizens. Would we be eligible
(working with a local city agency) for a Reuse Assistance Grant to obtain
and rebuild this e-waste into sellable and donateable products?
A. As described, the project could be considered eligible for a Reuse
Assistance Grant, provided a California local public agency is the
applicant, and your organization is the partner.
Q. We are a nonprofit organization in northern California training
developmentally disabled adults in skills for independent living. For one of
our programs, bicycles are donated by individuals and from impounds,
repaired by our clients, and later donated and/or sold to community members.
We are proud of our record of keeping bikes out of the central landfill; we
think our program is highly creative. And it is possible to read it as "using
a material over again in its current form without any significant processing
that alters its material structure".
A. As described, such a project could be eligible for a Reuse Assistance
Grant.
Q. Our ReStore has received 138 tons of usable building materials from
April 2003 to June 2004. We recycle those materials by selling them to the
general public for reuse in their homes of rental property. Our biggest need
right now is a one ton truck with lift to pick up building materials and to
pay for marketing our services to potential donors and people wanting to
purchase usable building materials that have been diverted from the
landfill. Would these items be eligible for the proposal? Both would
increase our capacity to divert materials from the landfill. Our agency
works with the County Resource Management Agency's Solid Waste Division. I
understand that the actual proposal has to come from them.
A. As long as the materials are reused, and not "recycled" as mentioned
above, such a project could be eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant. As the
Habitat ReStore is a non-local public agency, the ReStore would need to
partner with a California local public agency, and the actual
proposal/application would need to be submitted by the local public agency,
with the local public agency as the applicant.
Q. We are participating in a program with a company called "Shred-it".
They come to our location as needed and take large quantities of old
documentation, shred it, and transfer the confetti to a recycling facility.
It is then recycled and returned to the marketplace in the form of recycled
household paper products. They provide us with a "Certificate of
Destruction" that lets us now how many trees we've saved. We would love to
expand on this service throughout the City, but are limited in our ability
to pay for this service. Is this something that would be eligible for this
grant? If not, do you know of any other funding sources this may apply to?
A. The proposed project as described would not be eligible for a Reuse
Assistance Grant, as recycling projects are ineligible—only reuse projects
qualify. Information on additional California Integrated Waste Management
Board grant funding resources is available at www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Grants/ and on other State of California grants at
www.getgrants.ca.gov.
Q. Does the CIWMB make grants available for private businesses that
are developing technologies, systems, and solutions for eliminating waste
streams?
A. Feasibility studies and projects related to developing the
groundwork for feasibility studies and pilot programs are among the
ineligible projects, as the Reuse Assistance Grants are intended for the
establishment or expansion of tangible reuse programs. The Reuse
Assistance Grants are intended to foster creative and productive
projects that reuse an item over again in its current form without
significant processing that alters its material structure. The Reuse
Assistance Grants are intended to advance the practical implementation
of reuse activities throughout California. Private businesses may
partner with California local public agencies to apply for a Reuse
Assistance Grant, with the local public agency as the applicant. Other
grants and loans offered by the CIWMB are listed at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Grants and by other state agencies at
www.getgrants.ca.gov.
Q. Our County is reusing recycling bins. We get the recycling
containers from the garbage haulers (at no charge) and convert them into
worm bins. Our Master Composter volunteers have already converted about 500
bins and they have been distributed to the public at our composting
workshops at no charge. The instructions state the funds cannot be used for
composting. We would use the money to purchase plastic lids for the bins,
screws to attach wood feet to the bins, and drills to put air holes into the
bins. It would be nice to provide worms but we do not have the budget to do
that and it appears that the grant money could not be used for worms.
A. Composting projects are not considered eligible projects
for a Reuse Assistance Grant. The Reuse Assistance Grants are intended
to foster projects that use an item over again in its current form
without significant processing that alters its material structure.
However, there are a variety of grants offered by the California
Integrated Waste Management Board that may fund composting projects.
These grant offerings can be found at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Grants/ and other state agencies at
www.getgrants.ca.gov.
Q. We have a steel-pin vehicular bridge that is to be demolished due
to channel improvements. We would like to relocate and reuse the bridge for
a pedestrian crossing. As we would be changing the use from vehicles to
pedestrians only, no change to the structure, would this type of project be
grant worthy?
A. As described, the relocation and reuse of the bridge could
be considered an eligible project; however, please note that this grant
offering's primary purpose is to encourage the establishment of tangible
and long-term systems, infrastructure, projects, and/or facilities that
recover materials for reuse that are otherwise destined for disposal,
and the more closely a project aligns with the criteria, the better the
chance for grant funding.
Q. I have a question concerning eligibility of a proposal: I
understand the material is to be reused "without significant processing that
alters its material structure," according to the CIWMB's Web site. What
about the purchase of grinding equipment to reduce glass shards to landscape
and decorative glass, without the sharp edges? Apparently (according to
previous research regarding RMDZ activities), there is a market for this
type of glass. Of course, the bottle shape is gone forever, but the material
remains glass; it is not being reduced to component parts of silica and
sand. Would this qualify as an eligible project for the current reuse grant
cycle?
A. Grinding glass shards to make landscape and decorative
glass would be considered significantly processing the material, and
consequently, would be considered ineligible for a Reuse Assistance
Grant.
Q. Would purchasing used oil containers and distributing the
containers to selected certified centers that would be willing to distribute
to their customers qualify for a Reuse Assistance Grant? The requirements
state that the purpose of the Reuse Assistance Grant is to provide
incentives for local agencies to promote and apply the reuse of
non-hazardous materials. The used oil container would be used to transport
HHW (used oil) to centers, but the container itself is reusable. Would this
be an eligible project, or should we apply for this under the used oil
grants?
A. Purchasing containers to transport used oil would be
considered an ineligible project as projects must reuse non-hazardous
materials only. (This prohibition would apply to projects that would be
used to transport used oil.) See other CIWMB grant opportunities at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Grants/ or grants offered by
other state agencies at
www.getgrants.ca.gov.
Q. We are interested in possibly applying for a Reuse Assistance
Grant. We have an established reuse program here at the City. We have free
drop-off at the Transfer Station for reusable items. We then sell them twice
each month at a reuse auction. We would like to use grant funds to fence and
cover the auction area. We have trouble with items sometimes "disappearing"
and, during the winter, many of the items get rain damaged and then do not
sell and have to be thrown away. Would this be an eligible grant
expenditure?
A. As described, such a project could be considered eligible
for a Reuse Assistance Grant.
Q. Over the last two and a half years, we have been slowly
developing a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, selling new and used reusable
construction materials (recapturing construction materials that would
otherwise be thrown away in the landfill). We would like to know the
parameters of the Reuse Assistance Grant. Would the grant funds cover
the following:
Q. (1) The establishment of a website to help develop the
Restore, and to market reusable materials online?
A. (1)
If you are a non-profit organization,
you would only be eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant if you partner
with a California local public agency in applying for the grant, with
the local public agency as the applicant. Under those circumstances, as
described
, grant funds could be used to establish a website to help develop the
Restore, and to market reusable materials online.
Q. (2) Because we are staffed with only one part-time person, we
are able to be open only three days a week, and with limited hours.
Could grant funds be used to hire more staff (we have been getting by
with only one part-time paid person and many volunteers)?
A. (2) Grant funds could be used to hire more staff for the
ReStore. Please note that as this grant offering's primary purpose is to
encourage the establishment of long-term projects, and/or facilities
that reuse materials, projects that will continue long after the grant
funding has ended will be more competitive.
Q. (3) Because of limited funds we have been making do with
whatever comes in the door, for our racks and shelving. Could grant
funds be used to purchase commercial racks and shelving for our ReStore
to make the store look more professional and also to able to store the
materials in a way that they would not be damaged?
A. (3) Grant funds could be used to purchase commercial racks
and shelving for the ReStore.
Q. (4) Sometimes garbage is dumped at our doorsteps. Could grant
funds be used for the cost of disposal of un-useable materials (e.g.,
old paint, broken appliances, etc.) that are left at our store?
A. (4) Grant or matching funds could not be used for the cost
of the disposal of unusable items, as the funds may be used only for the
reuse of non-hazardous items.
Q. (5) As we have limited funds, advertising is always a difficult
item for which to budget. We know we need to get the word out,
especially because we are not that easy to find. Could grant funds be
used for advertising, such as billboards, TV, and radio? We keep an ad
in the classifieds and run other ads and have a billboard occasionally.
However, would this grant be able to help us expand our advertising to
let individuals and businesses know that they can donate their reusable
construction materials to us, and that there is an alternative to the
landfill for these items?
A. (5) Grant funds could be used to advertise a ReStore.
Q. Our county's Public Works Department is very interested in
applying for a Reuse Assistance Grant. We have identified four possible
projects/activities that we believe meet the criteria of the Grant.
Understanding that a jurisdiction can only submit one application, we
would like any guidance you can provide in helping us identify the
option that would most likely be awarded Grant funding, given the
priorities of the CIWMB and the experience of Reuse Assistance Grant
staff. The four options are conceptually described below:
Q. (1) A promotion campaign for LACoMAX. LACoMAX (www.LACoMAX.com)
is L.A. County's on-line materials exchange, in operation since August
1998. It was originally developed by us based on and with the assistance
of CalMAX, and the two sites have a link exchange in effect. In order to
make more County residents and businesses aware of and use LACoMAX, the
County would like to develop a promotion campaign around LACoMAX and
proposes using a Reuse Assistance Grant to fund the campaign. The
LACoMAX site currently receives between 1,000 to 1,500 page visits per
month.
A. (1) As described, such project could be considered eligible
for funding.
Q. (2) A portion of a Construction and Demolition (C&D) Debris
Recycling Public Education/Outreach contract. This contract, for which
we already have received proposals and which we plan to submit for
approval to the County Board of Supervisors at the same time as a C&D
Debris Recycling Ordinance currently in the final stages of being
drafted, would cost between $127,500 and $150,000. We would use the
grant funds for activities that emphasize the reuse aspects of C&D
debris in the outreach.
A. (2) As described, such project could be considered eligible
for funding, provided reuse, not recycling is the concept that is
emphasized in the outreach. Grant or matching funds could not be used
for any portion of the contract that does not focus on the concept of
reuse.
Q. (3) Site visits to businesses in the unincorporated areas to
promote materials reuse. This could be done by our existing Smart
Business Recycling program (www.businessrecycling.com), which includes
an active site visit element to the 20,000 businesses in the
unincorporated areas. We would ensure and document adequate presentation
of materials reuse concepts and resources to businesses during site
visits; but this would marginally increase the cost of the site visits,
probably requiring a change in the contract (and Board of Supervisor
approval) to provide for the additional work. The Reuse Assistance Grant
would fund the reuse outreach.
A. (3) As described, such project could be considered eligible
for funding.
Q. (4) A Construction and Demolition Debris Reuse Partnership.
This would involve establishing a public/private partnership with a
nonprofit organization such as Habitat for Humanity to provide for
collection, distribution, and reuse of construction materials.
A. (4) As described, such project could be considered eligible
for funding.
Q. Our city is in need of trashcans and recycling cans. As our
city does not have the funds for them, could we apply for a Reuse
Assistance Grant to help fund recycling containers for the beaches and
bus stops? If so, is the process of applying for a grant so difficult
that hiring someone to fill out the grants is necessary?
A. Grant or matching funds cannot be used to purchase
trashcans and recycling cans, as the grants are for reuse projects only.
Most applicants (local public agencies) write their grant proposals
themselves. The CIWMB strives to make the application process as easy as
possible by providing clear instructions, definitions to terms in the
application, a forum to submit questions, as well as information and
sample applications from projects that have been funded previously.
Please note that there is no guarantee that similar projects will be
awarded a grant in this grant cycle.
Q. Our county is interested in saving a historic building and
turning it into a recycling and green building museum. Are you aware of
any funding to help them make this a reality?
A. You may want to visit the CIWMB's Sustainable Building
Grants and Contracts Web site:
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/Grants/.
You may also want to visit
http://getgrants.ca.gov/ for information about grants offered by
other State of California agencies.
Q. Would an application for funding of the proposal described as
follows, submitted through a local agency, be eligible for
consideration: Purchase and installation of technology in the produce
department preparation area of a retail food store, which would greatly
reduce the liquid content of fruit and vegetable wastes, promoting
diversion of those waste from landfills to beneficial use as assets in
animal feed, soil amendments or feedstock for composting?
A. The purchase and installation of technology to reduce the
liquid content of fruit and vegetable wastes for use as assets in animal
feed, soil amendments, or feedstock for composting would not be
considered a reuse project, and would be an ineligible project.
Q. We have a small business that takes barn wood, old fences, and
old decks and creates benches, planters, etc. Most of the woodworking is
done by hand. As this grant excludes wood remilling, is this type of
business excluded under this category?
A. Remilling projects are considered ineligible projects. If
the wood is not significantly processed, it could be considered an
eligible project.
Q. Would a construction project attempting to reuse materials
(like bricks, stone, wood) be eligible?
A. A construction project that reuses materials could be
eligible.
Q. In regards to the answer of a previous question about my
proposed project's eligibility, the word "could" is used in "could be
eligible." What would make this a "will be eligible" project?
A. The CIWMB's Legal Department used the word "could" instead
of "will", as their policy is to not say a project will definitely be
eligible, as factors unknown to our Legal Department at the time of
their response could possibly come into play, rendering the project
ineligible.
Q. We are a private hauling company, which has contracted with the
local government for recycling. We also hold a separate recycling and
waste reduction education contract with the County. We
have access to thousands of recycling tubs that are no longer used in
our area due to automated collection service. We would like to donate
these bins to local school districts for them to use for recycling
inside their classrooms. We would like to have the bins washed, stickers
printed and placed on the bins (e.g., what you can recycle, etc.), and
distributed to the schools. As a private company teaming with the local
government and school districts, would this project qualify for a Reuse
Assistance Grant?
A. As described, the proposed project would not be eligible
for a Reuse Assistance Grant, as the grants are for reuse projects
only—not recycling projects. You may want to visit the Department of
Conservation's grants page:
www.conservation.ca.gov/dor/grants/index.htm
for a list of recycling grant opportunities and
www.getgrants.ca.gov for
other grants offered by the State of California.
Q. Would a project such as dismantling a 5,500 sq. ft structure
with the focus of reusing all its materials qualify under the reuse
program? Labor costs?
A. As described, the proposed project could be considered
eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant. Labor costs could be considered
eligible grant and/or matching expenditures, provided the proposal is
deemed eligible. Fundamentally, the purpose of the Reuse Assistance
Grants is to establish ongoing reuse enterprises. This offering's
primary purpose is to encourage the establishment of tangible and
long-term systems, infrastructure, projects, and/or facilities that
recover materials for reuse that are otherwise destined for disposal.
Please note that it is anticipated that this offering will be highly
competitive, and the more clearly a proposed project adheres to the
concept of reuse and aligns with preference criteria, the better the
chances of award.
Q. Our city's Environmental Management Department runs a program
called the Product Exchange program. We advertise quarterly through our city
newspaper, but need more exposure to help divert items from the landfill. We
take calls and match people with products they want to get rid of. Would
this be considered an eligible project for this grant? Could we use the
funding toward staffing and advertising of the project? We would really like
to take this online so residents can monitor what is available right now at
their fingers. Please let me know if this would be an eligible project, as
well as what is not eligible for this grant offering.
A. As described, such a project could be considered eligible.
Grant funding could be used for staffing and advertising of the project.
Please see the "Ineligible Projects" on page 4 of the Application
Instructions, and the "Ineligible Project Costs" on page 5 for further
information on what is ineligible for this grant offering.
Q. Wood milling/grinding is listed as an ineligible product. We have a
prospective client for whom we would be applying, which would receive the
funds, to package wood shaved from dead trees killed by bark beetles in the
San Bernardino forest to use as a new fire starter product. The funds would
not be used for grinding or milling, but for taking the remains of milling
work and turning them into a new product. More specifically, they would be
used for market research for packaging design and related needs.
A. As described, such a project would be considered
significant processing and would be ineligible.
Q. For this Reuse Assistance Grant, there is a matching fund
requirement from the individual's personal pockets, correct? I do not have
any money yet and I am trying to raise money for a DVD production to help the
deaf and blind, and at the same time, to be sold for profit for funds to help in
community projects, which includes funds to help pay for the remodeling of
my church. If I employ used and empty cassettes and video cases would I qualify
for this grant? Would I be able to have them produced and sell them for
profit, or must I be a nonprofit company? Empty cassette and empty video
cases are recyclable, correct?
A. As described, such a project would not be eligible for a
Reuse Assistance Grant, as the grants are available only to California
local public agencies for reuse projects.
Q. The CIWMB's California Materials Exchange (CalMAX) has offered to
set our County up with a local materials exchange through their Web site.
Would asking for funds to promote the Web site be eligible for the Reuse
Assistance Grant funds? We have had hits and exchanges, but we really need
to get the word out. We want to develop an advertising campaign to encourage
folks to go to list materials as well as look for materials on the site. As
with any program, promotion is essential for success.
A. Promoting a local materials exchange's Web site could be
considered eligible for a Reuse Assistance Grant.
Q. We plan to build a skate park, and are considering use of fly ash
in the concrete ("green" concrete) for the skate area, as well as access
pathways. Use of this approach may have both construction and budget
implications. Would the concrete component of our project would be an
eligible project under the Reuse Assistance Grants program?
A. The CIWMB commends your efforts of considering alternatives
to traditional concrete and exploring options for diversion; however, as
described, such a project would be ineligible for a Reuse Assistance
Grant. An eligible Reuse Assistance Grant project uses an item over
again in its current form without significant processing that alters its
material structure. For the purpose of the Reuse Assistance Grants,
"significant processing" is defined as changing the form of an item to
the extent that the item is not capable of being used again for its
original purpose. The CIWMB promotes and encourages the application of
recycled-content products; however, the use of recycled-content products
does not fall within the CIWMB's narrow definition of reuse.
Q. We currently use cloth hand towel machines in our office bathroom.
These machines use about a 100-foot long roll of cloth. Once per week the
used cloth rolls are removed by our uniform company, washed, and then
returned to us for use again in our hand towel machine. We would like to
extend this program to other bathrooms. Would the cloth towel machines
qualify for funding?
A. As described, purchasing cloth towel machines to replace
disposable paper towels in bathrooms could be considered an eligible
project, since the project proposes to reduce waste through the
implementation of a system that practices reuse in its operation and
would ultimately reduce the generation of solid waste via reuse.
However, it would need to be demonstrated how the successful operations
of the system/project put in place to replace disposables with reusables/durables
would remain under the control of the project proponent. Please note
that this offering's primary purpose is to encourage the establishment
of tangible and long-term systems, infrastructure, projects, and/or
facilities that recover materials for reuse that are otherwise destined
for disposal. All proposals will be competitively evaluated and scored
according to the approved scoring criteria within the application.
Q. We have an existing recycle reuse database; however, it has not
been upgraded since the late 1980s. Our main goal is to expand the reuse
fields of information, and also to sort it out from the recycling companies.
Would this be appropriate use of Reuse Assistance Grant funds?
In order to generate future funds, we are also thinking of creating
advertisement slots on our Web site; would it be appropriate to use Reuse
Assistance Grants to set up this project?
Could we use in-kind operations (volunteers) as our matching funds, and to
teach the system to local businesses?
A. Reuse Assistance Grant funds and/or matching funds could be
used only for the reuse portion of the database. Regarding creating
advertisement slots on your Web site, again, Reuse Assistance Grant
funds can only be used for the reuse portion of the database, not the
advertisement slots. In-kind operations (volunteers) can be used to meet
the matching requirement, as long as pre-approved, in writing, by the
CIWMB Grant Manager.
Q. Our nonprofit organization wants to purchase a flat bed truck to
schedule more C&D collections and we also want to use this grant to provide
salary for a Home Store employee who would solely work on scheduling
collections and increasing the number of items we collect. Is this something
we can apply for?
A. As described, such a project could be eligible. However, as
a nonprofit organization, you would not be eligible to apply for a Reuse
Assistance Grant on your own. To be eligible, you would have to partner
with a California local public agency, which would be the actual
applicant for the grant.
Q. We would like to purchase a scale to weigh the items we collect and
we want to use this grant to increase our marketing efforts in the Latino
community and improve our Web site so that others can see what we offer. Is
this fundable under this grant program?
A. As described, such a project could be eligible.
Q. Our nonprofit organization wants to hire a two to four-person crew
to do pre-demolition visits and collect doors, windows, railings, doorknobs,
etc. from homes and buildings before they are demolished. Several demolition
companies have advised us they would allow our employees access before
demolitions and if not, they would simply demolish the building and take the
remains to a landfill. Could we use a Reuse Assistance Grant to fund these
positions?
A. As described, Reuse Assistance Grant funds could be used to
hire such positions.
Q. Are examples of eligible projects available?
A. Past projects that have been awarded are described at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/reuse/Grants/LGAssist/Archives.htm. However, there is
no guarantee that similar projects will be awarded a grant in this grant
cycle.
Q. Is this a new program? If not, is there a list of prior awardees
available?
A. This is the fifth offering of the Reuse Assistance Grants
program. Past projects that have been awarded are described at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/reuse/Grants/LGAssist/Archives.htm. However, there is
no guarantee that similar projects will be awarded a grant in this grant
cycle.
Q. Regarding the format of Work Plan/Budget: General Application
Guidelines require minimum 10-point font and one-inch margins. The sample
Work Plan/Budget is in maximum font size of 9 for headings, and details in
font size 8.5. May we use these font sizes for the Work Plan/Budget to allow
for better fitting of details?
Regarding the format of Work Plan/Budget: Guidelines require following the
Work Plan/Budget Template, but only shows one classification of staff doing
a given task. Where we expect to have more than one classification of staff
doing a given task, should we: 1) Split the Rate, Unit, Hours and Cost
columns horizontally to detail the expected cost per classification (and
have three rows of cost for one task in some cases); or, 2) Select and
detail only the highest rated classification to be utilized for performing a
given task?
A. Yes, applicants may use 9-point font for headings and
8.5-point font for details in the Work Plan/Budget. When completing the
Work Plan/Budget, where you expect to have more than one classification
of staff doing a given task, split the Rate, Unit, Hours, and Cost
columns horizontally to detail the expected cost per classification. For
example, if three different staff with different classifications will be
working on one task, you will have three rows of costs for that one
task.
Q. The instructions for completing the Budget state: Provide recent
quotes and estimates for all costs and indicate on each quote/estimate to
which Budget item it belongs; Attach quotes; For work to be done outside of
the local public agency, attach at least three estimates. My question is as
follows: The purchase of a "building" (modular/mobile) is for the building
and includes installation (work done by a vendor outside the agency). Are we
supposed to provide three estimates of this purchase or all purchases of
equipment?
A. Three quotes or estimates of all costs need to be provided,
with an indication on each quote/estimate as to which Budget Item it
belongs.
Q. Regarding the questions in the application, which are located
within boxes, I noticed the sample applications provided on the Reuse
Assistance Grant Web site provide responses within boxes. In answering the
questions do the responses need to fit within the boxes (do the responses
need to have a box around them)?
A. In answering the questions, the responses do not need to
fit within the boxes (i.e., the responses do not need to have a box
around them). This format is provided simply to assist applicants in
completing their application, and to ensure applicants do not omit
answering any questions.
Q. Please confirm which mailing address we should use for sending our
application by Fed Ex. The application instructions indicate that
applications delivered on October 29, 2004 must be received at the
Environmental Services Center at the Cal/EPA's headquarters, and mailed
applications must be received by the application deadline and sent to the
CIWMB, Grants Administration Unit, MS-10, P.O. Box 4025. However, we cannot
send the application by Fed Ex to a post office box.
A. The mailing address to use for applications sent via Fed Ex
is:
California Integrated Waste Management Board
Grants Administration Unit
1001 I Street, MS-10
Sacramento, CA 95814
Q. Whose name should I put on the application's envelope to receive
the application, and what phone number should I provide Fed Ex?
A. Please use Vicki Hanson's name of the Grants Administration
Unit; her phone number is (916) 341-6101.
Q. Is there a minimum or maximum length for each question, section,
and for the application as a whole?
A. As stated on page 9 of the application, there is no
application length requirement for each question, section, or for the
application as a whole. However, the application must follow the
instructions for submittal and provide all of the information requested,
considering the importance of waste prevention.
Q. If our grant proposal is selected, when would the grant be
officially funded? July 1, 2005 after the new fiscal year or before that
date? Our newspaper-advertising representative noted yesterday that the
numbers she has given us could change by five percent next year. With that
in mind, and the fact that quite a large amount of funds are going to be
thrown at countywide outreach, should we include the proposed dollar amount
plus the projected five percent increase and put THAT dollar figure in the
budget?
A. It is anticipated that the grant proposals that are
selected for funding will be awarded at a Board meeting in early 2005.
Grant agreements will be developed immediately following the awards, and
it is anticipated that Grantees will be able to begin their projects
after receiving a Notice to Proceed. This should occur well before July
1, 2005.
As stated in the instructions for completing the Budget (page 20),
applicants are to provide recent quotes and estimates for all costs and
indicate on each quote/estimate to which Budget Item it belongs. If you
receive a quote from the newspaper advertiser who states the quote may
increase by five percent next year, indicate this on the quote and
include the proposed dollar amount plus the projected five percent
increase in the budget. It is important to include all possible costs in
the budget, as once the awards are made, Grantees cannot increase the
amount of their award.
Q. Can a city who receives a grant use the funds to hire someone to
administer the grant? We are interested in the grant but do not have staff to
administer it.
A. The Primary Contact and/or designated signature authority (the
individual responsible for the project (e.g., Public Works Director, City
Engineer, etc.), and who receives all CIWMB correspondence), must be a
California local public agency employee. The Project Director (the
individual responsible for carrying out the day-to-day management and
implementation of the grant) may be a non-local public agency employee and
he or she may be paid with grant funds. Likewise, grant funds may be used to
compensate the Primary Contact for the time he or she actually spends
working on the project.
Q. Is there a grant available for private companies who want to put
together a project to encourage recycling of cans and bottles in their area?
A. You may want to visit the Department of Conservation's grants page:
www.conservation.ca.gov/dor/grants/index.htm.
Q. Is it possible to schedule a meeting with the CIWMB to discuss the
grant application process and potential projects?
A. To ensure an equitable and fair grant review process, it is not
possible for anyone from the CIWMB to meet with potential applicants to
discuss project proposals or review applications before official submittal.
However, potential applicants are encouraged to review the project proposals
that have been funded with past Reuse Assistance Grants. This information is
available at www.ciwmb.ca.gov/reuse/Grants/LGAssist/Archives.htm.
Also, submission of questions during the Question and Answer period is
encouraged.
Q. The Matching Contribution Requirement seems to be different from
the Reuse Assistance Grant, Cycle 3. Is the following a correct example of
the matching contribution requirement for this current grant solicitation:
If the requested grant amount is $40,000, the matching contribution amount
is $20,000?
A. The matching contribution requirement is different from the
third cycle of Reuse Assistance Grants. For this offering, the matching
contribution requirement must be equal to or greater than fifty percent
(50%) of the requested grant amount. The example provided above is correct
(e.g., if the requested grant amount is $40,000, the minimum matching
contribution amount must be $20,000).
Q. I have a question regarding the matching requirement: "Applicants
are required to provide matching contributions and/or the value of staffing
or consulting time dedicated to the grant in an amount equal to or greater
than fifty percent (50%) of the requested grant amount. A grant partner may
provide matching contributions. The matching contributions must be clearly
identified in the approved Budget and are subject to the same restrictions
and limitations as grant funds."
Could you give some examples of matching contributions? I believe the salary
of our bike shop manager, for instance, might apply. Perhaps the time given
to the project by our municipal partner would apply.
A. The salary of your bike shop manager and/or the time your
municipal partner spends on the project could be considered eligible
matching contributions.
As stated on page 5 of the Application Instructions, matching
contributions may be used only for eligible expenses that are directly
related to the project. Money already budgeted for the applicant or
partner may be considered eligible matching contributions provided the
work/expenditures are incurred during the grant term and are eligible
grant expenses. Matching contributions may come from a grant partner,
public donations, fundraisers, monies from the budgets of local public
agencies, nonprofits, commercial businesses, etc. Grants, other than
CIWMB grants, may be used as matching contributions, when approved in
writing by the CIWMB's Grant Manager. All matching contributions must be
secured and committed by October 29, 2004. The value of staff time of
local public agencies, nonprofits, commercial businesses, private
contractors/subcontractors, or volunteers may be used as matching
contributions provided the time is dedicated solely to the performance
of the grant project. Documentation evidencing staff salaries is
required. The value of the volunteers' labor must be comparable to the
salaries of staff in similar positions; supporting documentation showing
that the salaries are comparable is required.
Additionally, as stated on page 5, matching contributions are subject to
the same restrictions and limitations as grant funds. Any costs not
directly related to the grant project are ineligible as matching
contributions. Ineligible matching contributions include, but are not
limited to, the following: Costs incurred prior to issuance of the
Notice to Proceed or after the end of the grant term; Costs not included
in the approved budget; Costs currently covered by another CIWMB loan,
grant, or contract; Overtime costs (except for local public agency
staffing during evening or weekend events when law or labor contract
requires overtime compensation); Out-of-state travel; Any food or
beverages (e.g., as part of meetings, workshops, training, events,
etc.); Public education costs not directly associated with the concept
of reuse; Profit or mark-up by the Grantee or partner; Cell phones and
pagers; Overhead and indirect costs above five percent (5%) of the
amount approved for payment; Any costs that are not consistent with
local, state, and federal guidelines, regulations, and laws; and, Any
other costs not deemed reasonable by the Grant Manager.
Q. For this Reuse Assistance Grant, there is a matching fund
requirement from the individual's personal pockets, correct? I do not have
any money yet and I am trying to raise money for a DVD production to help the
deaf and blind, and at the same time, to be sold for profit for funds to help in
community projects, which includes funds to help pay for the remodeling of
my church. If I employ used and empty cassettes and video cases would I qualify
for this grant? Would I be able to have them produced and sell them for
profit, or must I be a nonprofit company? Empty cassette and empty video
cases are recyclable, correct?
A. As described, such a project would not be eligible for a
Reuse Assistance Grant, as the grants are available only to California
local public agencies for reuse projects.
Q. The NOFA states that there is a match required for this program. If
an applicant were to supply a match greater than 50 percent, would this
ultimately benefit them during the evaluation process?
A. Applicants are required to provide only a 50 percent match
of the amount of funds they are requesting. Applicants who supply a
match greater than 50 percent may receive a higher score in the budget
portion of the evaluation; however, there are many factors in the budget
evaluation.
Q. How many awards are anticipated for this cycle?
A. A total of $250,000 is available, and applicants may
request up to $50,000. Since applicants may request any amount up to
$50,000, it is not possible to estimate how many grants will be awarded.
Q. What grants does the CIWMB offer for minorities to expand their
business or to open a business? How do we apply?
A. Information on additional California Integrated Waste
Management Board grant and loan funding resources is available at
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Grants/
and on other State of California grants at
www.getgrants.ca.gov. As each grant and loan program has different
application requirements, check with each one to determine what criteria
apply.
Q. Can an association of governments (several cities) partner for the
grant?
A. An association of California local public agencies may partner
in a regional application. A local public agency that is a partner in a
regional application may not also submit an individual application for the
same grant offering. Regional applications must designate one (1) local
public agency as the lead agency (Grantee). A local public agency designated
as a partner may manage the grant project; however, the local public agency
designated as the lead agency (Grantee) is the party responsible under the
Grant Agreement and is solely responsible for ensuring compliance with the
provisions of the Grant Agreement (e.g., submitting Progress Reports,
Payment Requests, etc.).
Q. If a local public agency partners with a nonprofit and the
nonprofit would like to have its staff compensated with grant money for
their time on the project, is that possible without having the nonprofit
become a contractor for the local public agency?
A. No. In order for the nonprofit's staff to be compensated
with grant or matching funds for their time on the project, the
nonprofit must be considered a contractor for the local public agency.
If awarded a grant, the local public agency is required to have the
nonprofit complete the Reliable Contractor Declaration Form (www.ciwmb.ca.gov/grants/Forms/CIWMB168.doc)
and submit it to the CIWMB prior to authorizing a contractor to commence
work.
Q. We are a 501(c)(3) who has been asked to partner on two different
project proposals with two different public agencies. Can one nonprofit
partner on more than one project?
A. As stated on page 3 of the application, a qualified partner
may partner with more than one (1) applicant. When the partner will be
responsible for managing more than one (1) proposed project, each
application must demonstrate the partner's ability to run multiple
grants, and if applicable, how the multiple grants will interact to
achieve the project's goals.
Q. We understand that as a nonprofit, we cannot be the applicant for a
Reuse Assistance Grant, but we can partner with a California local public
agency, who would be the applicant. We are considering a local Los Angeles
County Supervisors office, the Los Angeles Conservation Corp or a local city
government. Are there any preferences regarding with whom we partner?
A. The CIWMB does not have any preferences regarding which
eligible California local public agencies eligible to partner with.
Regarding the three entities described, the Los Angeles Conservation
Corp would not be an eligible applicant with which to partner, as they
do not fall within the criteria of a local public agency.
Q. Our agency is very interested in applying for a Reuse Assistance
Grant. Does the CIWMB have a priority list regarding types of products you
would prefer that we use? Since we have several types of projects in which
reused products could be used, we would like to make sure that we
contemplate using the products that will most assist in meeting CIWMB's
goals and priorities.
A. As stated on pages 8 and 26 of the application, applicants can
receive up to five extra points (Preference Criteria points) for describing
how their proposed project will focus on reusing one (1) or more of the
following key priority wastes: Food; Construction and Demolition materials;
Electronic materials. Preference Criteria points are available only for
applications that score at least 75 points within the General Review
Criteria. Materials intended for reuse must be non-hazardous.
Q. After further reviewing the Reuse Assistance Grant application for
our Product Exchange Program, I have a question on page 8, number 8. It
states that the Key priority wastes we are to concentrate on are food,
construction/demolition materials, and electronic materials. Our program is
for all types of product exchanges to divert from the landfill that does
include some electronics, but not the others. However, there is no full
concentration on any of these products. Would this still be eligible and how
many points would we lose if only about one percent (1%) of our products are
electronics versus other types of products reused? Some of our most common
types of reused products are house furniture (e.g., couches, beds, chairs,
and tables), computer parts and computers, TVs, refrigerators, stoves, and
microwaves. Please advise if these products would still fall under the
jurisdiction for the Reuse Assistance Grant and if we have to concentrate on
the key priority wastes instead for our advertising?
A. As stated on pages 8 and 26 of the application, applicants
can receive up to five extra points (Preference Criteria points) for
describing how their proposed project will focus on reusing one (1) or
more of the following key priority wastes: Food; Construction and
Demolition materials; Electronic materials. Preference Criteria points
are available only for applications that score at least 75 points within
the General Review Criteria.
The project, as described, could be eligible for a Reuse Assistance
Grant. If the proposal does not qualify to receive the five Preference
Criteria points for reusing key priority wastes, the proposal would lose
five points for that particular criterion.
Q. I have a question about the CIWMB's requirements regarding
procurement policies. It is my understanding that some CIWMB competitive
grants require jurisdictions to have a procurement policy in place and that
the CIWMB may require proof of implementation (tracking and reporting) for
grant approval. Is this true? Does CIWMB have a standard "tracking" form for
jurisdictions to complete for proof of their procurement policy?
A. As seen on page 25 of the application, applicants are asked
to attach a copy of their Recycled-Content Purchasing (RCP) Policy,
which must have been adopted/modified within the last five (5) years to
receive full credit (adoption or modification of policy during the
application period is acceptable to receive the full eight (8) points).
While applicants may still apply for a grant without having a current
(adopted/modified within the last (5) years) RCP Policy, as that section
of the criterion is worth eight (8) points alone, applicants without a
current RCP Policy would not receive eight (8) points and their
application might score lower than applicants that attach a copy of
their current policy to their application. The CIWMB does not have a
standard "tracking" form for jurisdictions to complete for proof of
their RCP policy; each grant program has slightly different
requirements. For the Reuse Assistance Grants, applicants are asked to
complete Exhibit E (Criterion #7—see page 25) and attach a copy of their
current RCP Policy.
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