Plain Text Law

Regulation .04 Application Procedures.

Regulation .04 Application Procedures.Copy Citation

A.
A qualified applicant that applies for grant funds under the program shall submit to the Department the following:
(1)
If the applicant is an urban agricultural producer:
(a)
An application on a Department-produced form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs;
(b)
A map identifying the location of the operation including its street address and the parcel boundaries of the land on which the operation is situated;
(c)
Documentation showing that the person annually sells, or would normally have sold, in an urban area at least $1,000 of farm products from the person’s farming operation;
(d)
Except for an individual applying on the individual’s own behalf, documentation proving the applicant’s authority to sign on behalf of the organization on all matters related to the program;
(e)
A completed Current Nutrient Management Plan Certification form or Nutrient Management Plan Waiver, as applicable; and
(f)
A completed IRS Tax Form W-9.
(2)
If the applicant is a non-profit organization or institution of higher education:
(a)
An application based on a Department-approved form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs; and
(b)
For qualified nonprofit organizations:
(i)
A current IRS Determination Letter indicating its §501(c)3 status under Title 26 of the United States Code; and
(ii)
Evidence of good standing with the State of Maryland;
B.
Use of Grant Funds.
(1)
Limitations. A grant recipient may use a grant under this program to:
(a)
Secure real property:
(i)
That has established the necessary infrastructure to grow food;
(ii)
For which the grantee is the steward of the real property; and
(iii)
For which no more than 20 percent of the grant money will be used to secure property;
(b)
Maintain safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices; and
(c)
Make capital improvements to support viable urban agriculture enterprises.
(2)
To receive a grant under this program, the applicant shall demonstrate that the funds the person receives will provide a measurable community benefit including, but not limited to, improving local food access; and
(3)
A grant recipient may not use more than 15 percent of the amount of the grant for operating expenses.