Title
Consider a preliminary analysis report in response to Board Referral No. 2021.10 asking County Counsel to investigate the possibility of creating a funding mechanism for agricultural research.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a preliminary analysis report in response to Board Referral No. 2021.10; and
b. Direct that the referral be completed as outlined in this preliminary report.
SUMMARY:
The referral asks County Counsel to investigate potential funding streams or sources for research into agricultural pests that affect the local agricultural industry. Several options exist.
PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS:
Background: Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) is a virus spread by thrips, it has devastated large swaths of leafy greens in the Salinas Valley. Research is needed to determine the appropriate response to this invasive pest, and other threats to the local agricultural industry. State sources of funding are no longer available for this important research. On May 20, 2021, Supervisor Lopez submitted a referral asking County Counsel to investigate sources or streams of funding that could be available to fund the research.
Project Description: Perform legal research into funding streams or sources available to the County to aid in the performance of research into agricultural pests affecting the Salinas Valley agricultural industry.
Estimated Project Cost: Six - ten hours internal attorney time - avg. $220 per hour = $1,320 - $2,200 (actual cost depends on attorney level).
Staffing Level Estimate: One attorney plus support staff.
Departmental Challenges: Press of other business.
Proposed Response Date: June 22, 2021.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
One or two sentences explaining how this recommendation supports/advances the Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives. Reference to any Key Objectives and/or Milestones that are related.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervi...
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