Natural Resource Board backs $360,000 grant application for Garden Club Park upgrades

The City of Sebastian Natural Resource Board voted unanimously Feb. 8 to send a letter in support of a $360,000 Recreational Trails Program grant application for improvements at Garden Club Park.

Board chairman Charles Stadelman read the draft letter to Richard Blankenship, director of parks, recreation and facilities, saying, "Our board fully supports your efforts to secure a recreational trails program grant in amount of $360,000. We believe that the improvements to the site will greatly benefit our community." The board then moved and seconded formal approval and the motion passed.

The proposed work in the city staff summary includes completing the trail loop around the park, improving pond management, adding new site furnishings, upgrading the parking lot and updating landscaping. Members said the improvements would help native-plant installations and general park use.

Charles Stadelman told staff he would sign the support letter and turn it in: "I'll sign this paper and turn it into city staff." Board members asked staff to keep the board informed if the grant is awarded and to invite additional input from board members during project planning.

Felicia, the city staff member who presented the item, said the application will be submitted first and that the city expects a months-long wait to learn whether the grant is funded. If funded, the city will involve the board in the larger planning conversation.

The action was procedural support — a formal letter and board endorsement — not the award of funds. The board’s endorsement does not guarantee the grant will be awarded; the city must still submit the application and await the funding decision.

The board also encouraged residents and members to contact staff with suggestions that might improve the project as plans develop.