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Management Plan (GMP) (Amendment Blue Butterfly was listed as a Administrative Review five of the Forest Plan): endangered species in 2015 and the The Lee Canyon Project and the SMNRA-wide Standards and designated critical habitat for the Forest Plan amendment will be subject Guidelines: (GMP Standard 0.31) New butterfly includes portions of the Lee to objection under 36 CFR part 218. roads, administrative facilities, and Canyon Ski Area, Constraint #2 from the Dated: May 7, 2018. developed recreation sites other than standard cannot be met. The Proposed low-impact facilities (trails, trailhead Action and other action alternatives also Chris French, parking, signs, restrooms, etc.) will be include the addition of a 500 vehicle Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System. outside a 100-yard buffer zone around parking lot at the ski area to known Clokey’s eggvetch and rough accommodate increased visitor use [FR Doc. 2018–17730 Filed 8–16–18; 8:45 am] angelica populations or potential without the development of additional BILLING CODE 3411–15–P habitat, and outside biodiversity parking in lower Lee Canyon or shuttle hotspots (defined as areas of particular services. The project-specifc Forest Plan DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE diversity or sensitivity). Amendment would exempt the project The need for this Forest Plan from the requirements under Constraint Rural Business-Cooperative Service amendment is that in the Lee Canyon #2 and Constraint #3. Proposed Action new service roads, and Rural Housing Service ski area facilities would occur within The substantive requirements of the the 100-yard buffer zone established 2012 Planning Rule (36 CFR part 219) Rural Utilities Service around known Clokey’s eggvetch and likely to be directly related and, rough angelica populations or potential therefore, applicable to the Forest Plan Rural Development Cooperative habitat. These areas have been amendment for the Lee Canyon Project Agreement Program thoroughly inventoried for these species are in 36 CFR 219.9(b) regarding and none were found within the project threatened and endangered species and AGENCY: Rural Development USDA. foot print. This project-specific Forest 36 CFR 219.10(a)(1), (3), and (7) ACTION: Notice. Plan amendment will allow regarding integrated resource SUMMARY: development within the 100-yard buffer management for multiple use. The scope The Assistant to the Secretary zones for these two-species established and scale to which these substantive for Rural Development (Agency) is seeking applications to support regional in the Standard GMP 0.31 (p. 18) to requirements would apply are the scope economic development planning efforts allow for construction of service roads and scale of the Lee Canyon Project. The in rural communities under the Rural and ski area facilities. amendment would not apply to any Economic Development Innovation Under the Proposed Action and other other projects or activities. action alternatives, Standard GMP 0.31 (REDI) initiative. This funding would be amended to allow new service Responsible Official opportunity will be administered by the Rural Development Innovation Center, roads and developed recreation sites to The Responsible Official for the Lee be placed within the 100-yard buffer in partnership with the Rural Business- Canyon Project and the Forest Plan Cooperative Service. The Agency is zone around known Clokey’s eggvetch amendment is William A. Dunkelberger, announcing up to $750,000 in and rough angelica populations or Forest Supervisor, Humboldt-Toiyabe competitive cooperative agreement potential habitat, and within National Forest Supervisor’s Office, funds in fiscal year (FY) 2018. Rural biodiversity hotspots in the Lee Canyon 1200 Franklin Way, Sparks, Nevada Development Agency may select one, Special Use Permit Boundary. Management Area 11: (11.57) Allow 89431, phone (775) 355–5310. multiple, or no award recipients. The Agency reserves the right to withhold limited expansion of ski area in Lee Decision To Be Made Canyon and enhancement of skiing the awarding of any funds if no application receives a score of at least opportunities and facilities within the In consideration of the stated purpose 60 points. scope of an approved master and need and the analysis of This Notice lists the information environmental effects documented in development plan and under the needed to submit an application for following constraints: this EIS, the Responsible Official will these funds. This Notice announces that 1. Expansion occurs within the review the proposed action and the Agency is accepting FY 2018 existing sub-basin. alternatives in order to make the applications to support REDI. 2. Does not impact any threatened, following decisions: endangered, or sensitive species or DATES: The deadline for receipt of a • Whether to authorize the proposed species of concern or its habitat. complete application is midnight 3. Expansion is commensurate with action or an alternative, including the Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, development of additional parking in required no-action alternative, all or in September 5, via www.grants.gov. The the lower Lee Canyon area and shuttle part; Agency will not consider any services. • What design criteria and mitigation application received after the deadline. 4. Expansion incorporates defensible measures to require as a condition of the After an applicant submits an space design and fire safe facilities. authorization; application via grants.gov, all applicants 5. Where consistent with other must email RD.Innovation@ • What evaluation methods and standards and guidelines. osec.usda.gov to confirm application The need for this Forest Plan documentation to require for monitoring and receipt of the application package. amendment is that the Proposed Action project implementation and mitigation Applicants who have been selected for and other action alternatives include effectiveness; and funding will receive a letter of official development of ski runs, mountain • Whether to amend the Forest Plan notification and will be awarded a coasters, zip lines, mountain bike trails, to exempt the project from Standard cooperative agreement authorized under parking areas, and access roads within GMP 0.31 and from Constraints #2 and 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Pending funding the Lee Canyon Ski Area permitted #3 of Standard GMP Management Area availability, all awards will be made no boundary. As the Mount Charleston 11.57. later than September 30, 2018.

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Applicants should plan their projects Overview • Evidence-based understanding of based on a start date of September 30, community assets, challenges and Federal Agency Name: U.S. 2018 and must be completed within 24 opportunities. Department of Agriculture, Rural months. • Development. Goals are focused, logical, targeted ADDRESSES: The deadline for receipt of Funding Opportunity Title: Rural and timely with tasks identified and an application is midnight Eastern Development Cooperative Agreement with a responsible party assigned. Standard Time on Wednesday, Program. • The plan was created through broad September 5, 2018. Applications may be Announcement Type: Notice of community participation, public input submitted electronically through the Funding Availability (NOFA). and buy-in. Grants.gov system or through email to Catalog of Federal Domestic • The format must be persuasive in a [email protected]. Note that Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.890. non-technical manner. there are registration requirements for Application Due Date: All required • submitting applications using the The plan makes clear how each of application documents must be Grants.gov system. We recommend that its strategies is intended to help submitted by midnight Eastern Standard you review the instructions for produce, either directly or indirectly, Time on Wednesday, September 5 registering as soon as possible, but at improvements in the local and regional electronically via www.grants.gov. least two weeks before you plan to economy. Applicants submitting proposals must submit your application. The • Regional economic development also confirm receipt and email requirements can be viewed at: http:// plans developed through REDI [email protected] to grants.gov/applicants/organization_ assistance should identify possible confirm application and receipt of the registration.jsp. Your application will be projects to be funded through RD application package. Applicants who rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the programs and/or other Federal, state, have been selected for funding will deadline and the Agency will not local or private sector resources. receive a letter of official notification. consider any application received after Pending funding availability, all awards This funding opportunity expands the deadline. will be made no later than September rural communities’ ability to access FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 30, 2018. Applicants should plan their planning resources to convene, identify Question about this announcement can projects based on a start date of needs, create actionable economic be directed to Christine Sorensen, September 30, 2018 and must be development plans, and implement Regional Coordinator, via 202–568–9832 completed within 24 months. project priorities to improve quality of or [email protected]. For More Information: Questions life in rural communities. Quality of life is a measure of human well-being that SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: about this announcement can be directed to Christine Sorensen, Regional can be identified though economic and Preface Coordinator, via 202–568–9832 or social indicators. Modern utilities, [email protected]. affordable housing, efficient The Agency encourages applications transportation and reliable employment that will support recommendations A. Program Description are economic indicators that must be made in the Rural Prosperity Task Force USDA Rural Development (RD) is integrated with social indicators like report to help improve life in rural authorized to administer cooperative access to medical services, public safety, America (www.usda.gov/ agreement awards in accordance with 7 education and community resilience to ruralprosperity). Applicants are U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Rural Economic empower rural communities to thrive. encouraged to consider projects that Development Innovation (REDI) aims to Economic development plans developed provide measurable results in helping strengthen the capacity of rural through this funding opportunity rural communities build robust and communities (50,000 people or less in should focus on one or more of these sustainable economies through strategic the United States plus Tribes and economic and/or social indicators. investments in infrastructure, territories) in implementing strategic Applicants are encouraged to consider partnerships, and innovation. Key community and economic development regional planning projects that provide strategies include: plans as referenced in Section 379H of measurable results in helping rural • Achieving e-Connectivity for Rural the Consolidated Farm and Rural communities built robust and America. Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008v). The sustainable economies through strategic • Developing the Rural Economy. goal of this funding announcement is to investments in infrastructure, partnerships, and innovation. Such • Harnessing Technological solicit applications to provide projects should also support rural Innovation. cooperative agreement funding to communities’ ability to qualify for • eligible applicants to enable them to Supporting a Rural Workforce. provide technical assistance and priority funding under Section 379H of • Improving Quality of Life. training and actionable planning of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act [7 U.S.C. 2008v]. Paperwork Reduction Act implementation of strategic community and economic development plans. This approach to comprehensive rural It is anticipated that the anticipated Supporting regional economic community development is unique in number of respondents affected by this development plans help rural its attempt to improve rural information collection is less than 10 communities overcome multi- communities in a way that is (1) rooted entities and therefore, this Notice jurisdictional challenges and better in emphasizing partnerships and contains no reporting or recordkeeping leverage Federal, state, local or private collaboration among multiple public provisions requiring Office of funding. agencies and community partners and Management and Budget (OMB) For purposes of this proposal, a (2) focused on combining state resources approval under the Paperwork quality regional economic plan will to make wide-ranging quality-of-life Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. include but not be limited to the impacts as opposed to separate, Chapter 35). following: piecemeal, incremental improvements.

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B. Federal Award Information C. Eligibility Information life. The applicant will demonstrate 1. Estimated Funding: Interested Applicants must meet all of the how their proposal will utilize applicants shall only propose following eligibility requirements by the partnerships outside of RD. The applications with scope of work/budget application deadline. Applications applicant will identify such that does not exceed $750,000 in which fail to meet any of these partnerships and will demonstrate how Federal funding. requirements by the application they will provide access to such 2. Start Date and Performance Period: deadline will be deemed ineligible and partnerships to support implementation Projects may be up to 2 years in will not be evaluated further and will of projects identified through development of regional economic duration. Applicants should plan their not receive a Federal award. development plans. The proposed projects based on a project start date of 1. Applicant Eligibility: Federally- project should also describe how it will September 30, 2018 and a project end recognized Tribes, institutions of higher support implementation of multi- date of no later than September 30, education, nonprofit organizations, or jurisdictional and/or multi-sector 2020. private organizations with a regional economic development plans, 3. Type of Federal Award: demonstrated national structure and/or as described in Section 379H of the Cooperative Agreement. Rural capacity to deliver and support multiple Consolidated Farm and Rural Development will be substantially rural planning activities across the Development Act. involved in the work performed under nation are eligible applicants. Entities 3. Cost Sharing or Matching each approved cooperative agreement. are not eligible if they have been Requirements: There is a dollar or in- Substantial involvement may include debarred or suspended or otherwise kind matching requirement that is at but is not limited to collaboration, excluded from or ineligible for least equal to the amount of the participation, oversight, and control of participation in Federal assistance cooperative agreement award. If this the following: programs under Executive Order 12549, matching fund requirement is not met, i. Authority to suspend work if ‘‘Debarment and Suspension.’’ In the application will be deemed specification or work statements are not addition, an applicant will be ineligible. Matching requirements are met; considered ineligible for a cooperative cash, confirmed funding commitments ii. Review and approval of one stage agreement due to an outstanding and/or third party in-kind contributions of work before another may begin; judgment obtained by the U.S. in a as defined in 2 CFR 200.96. that are at iii. Review and approval of Federal Court (other than U.S. Tax least equal to the cooperative agreement substantive provisions of proposed sub- Court), is delinquent on the payment of amount and committed for a period of grants or contracts; Federal income taxes, or is delinquent not less than the cooperative agreement iv. Prior review and approval of key on Federal debt. performance period. Applicants must personnel; and 2. Eligible Project Purposes: The recruit one or more private and/or v. Agency collaboration and Project purpose must be to strengthen public partner(s) to match one-for-one coordination with respect to the capacity of rural communities (in cash and/or in-kind contributions) deliverables and execution of the work (50,000 people or less in the United the applicant’s proposed funding plan. At a minimum, applicants should States plus Tribes and territories) in request. Cost sharing/matching must be anticipate Agency participation in the developing and implementing regional committed at the time of application selection of communities to receive plans for economic development as submission. Applications must include regional planning assistance; the referenced in Section 379H of the written verification of commitments of convening of community members, Consolidated Farm and Rural cost sharing or matching support partners, and stakeholders; the delivery Development Act. Eligible project (including both cash and in-kind of training on RD programs and/or purposes must include the two facets of contributions) from third parties. Cost economic development principles; and technical assistance: sharing or matching funds must meet the review/approval of regional i. Planning Technical Assistance: The the criteria stated at 2 CFR 200.306 and economic development plans for proposed project should provide be valued in accordance with 2 CFR purposes of priority funding under planning technical assistance to rural 200.306(d). Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm communities by assisting in the Additional details about cost sharing and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. development of regional economic or matching funds/contributions is 2008v). development plans. Proposals should located at 2 CFR 200.306. Applicant 4. Number of Awards: The Agency include descriptions on how technical matching funds must be included in the anticipates that it may select one, assistance will result in actionable steps budget narrative. For matching funds multiple, or no award recipients from to support implementation of these offered by project partners, a separate this notice of funding availability. The plans. The proposed project should also commitment letter is required for each Agency reserves the right to withhold provide technical assistance to expand cash and/or in-kind match contribution. the awarding of any funds if no rural communities’ ability to access Commitment letters must be signed by application receives a minimum score of funding and planning resources to the authorized organizational at least 60 points. convene community members. representative of the contributing 5. Eligibility of renewal or ii. Implementation Technical organization and the applicant Supplemental Project Applications: Assistance: The proposed project should organization, which must include: (i) Applications for renewal or provide technical assistance toward The name, address, and telephone supplementation of any existing Federal implementation of the project priorities number of the contributor; (ii) the name awards are not eligible for this new emerging from the regional economic of the applicant organization; (iii) the Federal award. An application for development plans. The technical title of the project for which the renewal means a proposal submitted to assistance should include strategies for contribution is made, (iv) the dollar continue an existing agreement by enhancing communities’ efforts at amount of the contribution; and (v) a adding components to an existing leveraging Federal, state, local, and/or statement that the contributor commits agreement in order to meet the private funding to build resilient to furnish the contribution during the objectives of this solicitation. communities and improve quality of cooperative agreement period.

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Applications without signed written total project budget, the application will iv. Applicant Qualifications (1–2 commitments are deemed incomplete not be considered for funding. pages): Summary of the qualifications of and will be ineligible. The value of 6. Rural Area: The project must the applicant organization is required. applicant contributions to the project is directly benefit a rural area. All ultimate Interested applicant must have the established according to Federal cost beneficiaries and/or subrecipients must organizational capacity, experience, and principles. Applicants should refer to 2 be located in rural areas, and any knowledge of rural planning needs and CFR 200.306 for additional guidance on activities or tasks must occur in rural must meet the following minimum matching funds, in-kind contributions, areas. The term ‘rural area’ means the requirements: and allowable costs. Rural Business Service’s Rural Area a. Demonstrate national structure 4. Substantial Involvement: Proposed definition as out lined in Section and/or capacity to support multiple project must include a component that 343(a)(13)(A)(i) of the Consolidated rural planning activities across the allows for active participation by the Farm and Rural Development Act which nation; Agency in the majority of tasks. states: Any area other than: (1) A city or b. Demonstrate knowledge and prior Examples of substantial involvement town that has a population of greater experience in regional planning, include but are not limited to the than 50,000 inhabitants; and (2) any particularly related to rural issues; following: Joint-selection of urbanized area contiguous and adjacent c. Demonstrate capacity to assist rural communities to receive regional to such a city or town. communities to develop regional plans such as access to data for needs planning assistance; joint-convening of 7. Number of Applications: You assessment and planners and other community members, partners, and cannot submit more than one application for this Notice. technical capacity on staff; and stakeholders; joint-delivery of training d. Demonstrate knowledge and prior on RD programs and/or economic D. Application and Submission experience of leveraging other development principles; and joint- Information community-driven plans or projects review/approval of regional economic 1. Address to Request Application such as Comprehensive Economic development plans for purposes of Page. All necessary forms can be found Development Strategies (CEDS) or other priority funding under Section 6025 within the Grants.gov ‘‘Application Federally-recognized regional economic Strategic Economic and Community Package.’’ development plans. Development. It is the intent of this 2. Content and Form of Application v. Key Personnel Qualifications (1–2 project to engage Agency and state RD Submission. There is no pre-application pages): Summary of the qualifications of staff in the development of regional process for this announcement. All each key person, including the project economic development plans and it is checklist, application, and standard director, is required. Resumes or CVs the responsibility of the applicant to forms necessary for submission are will not be accepted. The summary identify tasks where RD staff can included in the Grants.gov application should include relevant education, provide substantial involvement in the package. Applications that are years of relevant experience, a project. If you do not identify those incomplete or fail to comply with the description of skills relevant to the tasks, your application is not eligible for required content and formatting person’s work on the proposed project, funding. requirements will not be considered for and the person’s key accomplishments. 5. Use of Funds: Use of project funds funding. If you expect to contract out a portion (including Federal and matching) must i. Content and Format: Each page of the proposed work, but have not be consistent with the project purpose must be on numbered, letter-sized (81⁄2 hired the contractor, you must include to strengthen the capacity of rural x 11) paper utilizing a white background a summary of the qualifications you will communities in developing and that has 1″ margins; and the text of the require from the contractor. implementing regional plans for application must be typed, single vi. Project Proposal (15-page economic development. A non- spaced, black, and in a font no smaller maximum): The project proposal must exclusive list of eligible fund uses than 12 point. include a proposed Work Plan, along include: Costs incurred for the services ii. Executive Summary (1-page with the following information in order: of personnel actually engaged in the maximum): On a single page, provide a. Project Background. project, including share of employee the applicant entity name, duration of b. Project Objectives. benefits, travel and per diem expenses, project in months, amount of Federal c. Project Approach/Methods. costs of expendable supplies, and travel d. Theory of Change. funding requested, amount of non- e. Geographic Locations or Project and per diem expenses associated with Federal cost-share/match funding travel to USDA Headquarters in Areas. committed, and project title. Identify f. Project Management (Applicants are Washington, DC to coordinate and geographic locations, and describe in required to include a Work Plan Chart collaborate on project tasks. Use of non-technical language the issue or that lists each major Task by Key funds must be allowable in adherence problem rural communities have in Personnel involved, Time Period of the with 2 CFR part 200. accessing economic development task, Substantial Involvement of Rural If you include funds in your budget planning resources, the objectives to Development staff, Deliverables, and that are unallowable, RD will consider address this issue, the innovative Budget associated with each task). the application for funding only if the approach to be employed (including the g. Performance Metrics. unallowable costs total 10 percent or role of participating partners), how h. Graphics, References, Citations (Do less of the total project budget, impact will be quantified, and the not count against the 15-page including Federal and matching funds. predicted benefits or deliverables of the maximum). However, if the application is project. A Work Plan Chart template is successful, those unallowable costs iii. Standard Application Form: available for applicants as part of this must be removed from the budget before Standard Form 424, ‘‘Application for funding opportunity on grants.gov. RD will make an award. If RD cannot Federal Assistance’’ is included as part vii. Budget Information (10-page determine the percentage of of the application package posted on maximum): The budget portion of the unallowable costs or the amount of Grants.gov. Instructions for completing application consists of two parts as those costs exceeds 10 percent of the the form are also included. described below:

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a. Standard Form (SF) 424A, ‘‘Budget the financial, management, and i. Data Universal Numbering System Information’’: Non-Construction performance risk posed by awardees as (DUNS) Number: A DUNS number is a Programs. The SF–424A is included as required by 2 CFR 200.205. Based on unique, nine-digit sequence recognized part of the application package posted this risk review, the Agency may apply as the universal standard for identifying on Grants.gov. special conditions that correspond to and keeping track of over 70 million b. Detailed Budget Narrative: Provide the degree of risk assessed. businesses worldwide. Applicants must a detailed narrative in support of the xi. National Environmental Policy obtain a DUNS number. Information on budget for the project, broken down by Act: This Notice has been reviewed in how to obtain a DUNS number can be task. Discuss how the budget accordance with 7 CFR part 1970, found at http://fedgov.dnb.com/ specifically supports the proposed ‘‘Environmental Policies and webform or by calling 1–866–705–5711. activities. Justify the project cost Procedures.’’ We have determined that Please note that the registration may effectiveness and include justification an Environmental Impact Statement is take up to 14 business days to complete. for personnel and consultant salaries not required because the issuance of ii. System for Award Management with a description of duties. regulations and instructions, as well as (SAM) Registration: SAM is the official Statement(s) of work for any amendments to them, describing Federal system that consolidated the subcontractors and consultants must be administrative and financial procedures capabilities of Central Contractor included as part of the application. The for processing, approving, and Registry, Federal Agency Registration, budget narrative should include both implementing the Agency’s financial Online Representations and the Federal funds requested and the programs is categorically excluded in Certifications Application, and applicant’s matching funds. The format the National Environmental Policy Act Excluded Parties List System. To of the budget narrative can be in a chart, (NEPA) regulation found at 7 CFR register, go to: https://www.sam.gov/ spreadsheet, table, etc. It should be 1970.53(f). We have determined that portal/public/SAM/. Please allow a readable on letter-size, printable pages. this Notice does not constitute a major minimum of 5 days to complete the The information needs to be presented Federal action significantly affecting the SAM registration. 4. Submission Dates and Times. in such a way that the reviewers can quality of the human environment. Midnight Eastern Standard Time on readily understand what expenses are xii. Civil Rights Compliance September 5, 2018. You must submit incurred to support the project. Requirements: All awards made under viii. Certifications: All proposals must your application using Grants.gov by the this Notice are subject to Title VI of the include the following signed deadline date and time. Note that there Civil Rights Act of 1964 as required by certification forms, which are available are registration requirements for 7 CFR part 15, subpart A and Section at Grants.gov: submitting applications using the 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. a. AD–3030, ‘‘Representations Grants.gov system. We recommend that Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 3. Unique entity identifier and System you review the instructions for Delinquent Status for Corporate for Award Management (SAM). DUNS registering as soon as possible, but at Applicants.’’ The AD–3030 must be and SAM Numbers: Each applicant least two weeks before you plan to submitted if entity is a corporate non- (unless the applicant is an individual submit your application. The profit or for-profit corporation as excepted from those requirements under requirements can be viewed at: http:// indicated in the applicants SAM 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an grants.gov/applicants/organization_ registration. exception approved by the Federal registration.jsp. Your application will be b. AD–3030, ‘‘Representations awarding agency under 2 CFR rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 25.110(d)) is required to: (i) Be deadline. We will not accept it in a Delinquent Status for Corporate registered in SAM before submitting its different format, and we will not Applicants.’’ The AD–3030 must be application; (ii) provide a valid unique consider it for funding. submitted if entity is a corporate non- entity identifier (Data Universal i. Acknowledgement of receipt: profit or for-profit corporation as Numbering System (DUNS) number) in Grants.gov provides receipt of indicated in the applicants SAM its application; and (iii) continue to application submissions. The Agency registration. maintain an active SAM registration acknowledges receipt of proposals c. SF–424B, ‘‘Assurances for Non- with current information at all times received by the submission deadline via Construction Programs.’’ The SF–242B during which it has an active Federal email. An applicant who does not must be completed by all applicants. award or an application or plan under receive such an email acknowledgement d. SF–424B, ‘‘Assurances for Non- consideration by a Federal awarding within 5 business days of the Construction Programs.’’ The SF–242B agency. The Agency may not make a submission deadline, but believes the must be completed by all applicants. Federal award to an applicant until the proposal was submitted within the ix. Verification of Matching Funds. applicant has complied with all submission deadline, must contact the You must provide verification of all applicable unique entity identifier and Agency at 202–568–9832 or matching funds that will be contributed SAM requirements and, if an applicant [email protected] to the project. You must include a letter has not fully complied with the within 10 business days of the signed by the donating organization’s requirements by the time Agency is submission deadline. Failure to do so authorized representative on the ready to make a Federal award, Agency may result in the proposal not being organization’s letterhead that identifies may determine that the applicant is not considered. the amount of matching funds, the time qualified to receive a Federal award and ii. Withdrawal: Proposals may be period during which matching funds use that determination as a basis for withdrawn by written notice at any time will be available, and the source of the making a Federal award to another before award execution. Written notice funds (e.g., cash on hand, etc.). See applicant. Applicants must obtain a of withdrawal must be signed by the Section Eligibility Information (C 3) for DUNS and register in SAM prior to applicant or an authorized more information. registering with Grants.gov. Applicants representative. x. Risk Review: The Agency may are strongly encouraged to apply early All required application documents request additional documentation from for their DUNS number and SAM must be submitted by midnight Eastern selected applicants in order to evaluate registration. Standard Time on Wednesday,

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September 5 via www.grants.gov AND this program. This E.O. requires that a. Duplicating services currently by emailing RD.Innovation@ Federal agencies provide opportunities provided; osec.usda.gov. for consultation on proposed assistance b. Funding a revolving loan fund; Submitting an application through with State and local governments. Many c. Construction (in any form); www.grants.gov requires completing a States have established a Single Point of d. Salaries for positions involved in variety of tasks and steps. There are also Contact (SPOC) to facilitate this construction, renovations, several preliminary registration steps consultation. A list of States that rehabilitation, and any oversight of before the applicant can submit the maintain an SPOC may be obtained at: these types of activities; application. To register in the http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/ e. Intermediary preparation of Grants.gov system, go to grants_spoc. If your State has an SPOC, strategic plans for recipients; f. Funding prostitution, gambling, or www.grants.gov, click on ‘‘Applicants’’, you must submit your application any illegal activities; then click on ‘‘Get Registered.’’ If you directly for review. Any comments g. Grants to individuals; have completed a prior Grants.gov obtained through the SPOC must be h. Funding a grant where there may application, you may already have provided to us for consideration as part be a conflict of interest, or an completed the registration process. of your application. If your State has not appearance of a conflict of interest, Please allow sufficient time to register established an SPOC, we will submit involving any action by the Agency; in Grants.gov, and for possible system your application to the appropriate i. Providing assistance to only one delays. Below are instructions for agency or agencies at our discretion. individual, organization, or business; accessing the forms necessary to Applications from Federally-recognized j. Paying obligations incurred before complete an application in Grants.gov: Indian Tribes are not subject to the beginning date without prior Agency i. Go to www.grants.gov. Information Intergovernmental Review. approval or after the ending date of the about submitting an application using 6. Funding Restrictions. cooperative agreement; Grants.gov is located on the Grants.gov i. Pre-award Costs. Pre-award costs k. Purchasing real estate; website, along with supplementary are not authorized. l. Improvement or renovation of the materials. ii. Use of Funds. Award funds may be recipient’s office space or for the repair ii. Select the ‘‘Applicant’’ tab. used to pay up to 50 percent of the or maintenance of privately owned iii. Select the ‘‘Apply for Grants’’ project costs. vehicles; heading. iii. Period of Performance. The m. Any purpose prohibited in 2 CFR iv. Click on ‘‘Get Application part 200 or 400; Package.’’ Follow all steps. maximum Period of Performance is 2 years. Applicants should anticipate a n. Using cooperative agreement v. Provide the ‘‘Funding Opportunity assistance or matching funds for Number’’ or return to the ‘‘Search Period of Performance beginning September 30, 2018 and ending no later Individual Development Accounts; Grants’’ section. o. Purchasing vehicles. vi. All necessary forms are included September 30, 2020. within the Grants.gov ‘‘Application iv. Indirect Cost Rate. The indirect V. Application Review Information Package.’’ cost rate is limited to 10 percent of Applications will first be reviewed to Applications not received through direct charges for all nonprofit determine if they meet the eligibility Grants.gov by the submission due date institutions, including institutions of requirements and comply with the and time are not accepted for higher education. All other funding restrictions in this Notice. If we consideration. The emailed application organizations must use the rate determine that your application is must be assembled into one pdf file identified in their Negotiated Indirect ineligible, we will discontinue document in the order specified in Cost Rate Approval (NICRA). If you do processing it, which means that we will section IV, part A. All applications must not have a NICRA, you may elect to not evaluate it further or provide any contain all of the elements of a complete charge only direct costs to the award. If scoring information. We will notify you package and meet the requirements you have never had a NICRA, you may in writing regarding the reason(s) for described in this announcement. also choose to use a de minimis rate of ineligibility, and we will provide a Grants.gov provides instructions for 10 percent of modified total direct costs description of your options if you submitting the required application in accordance with 2 CFR 200.414(f). believe that our determination is items through the portal. Application Your indirect cost rate must be included incorrect. Note that in the event that our receipt date and time will be on Form SF–424A. determination is reversed, either due to determined by the respective system- v. Program Income. If you expect to the discovery of an Agency error or generated documentation of receipt date earn Program Income during the Period through a formal appeal, funding is and time (Grants.gov provides date and of Performance, you must identify the restricted to available fiscal year 2018 time stamps for all proposals submitted amount and how you expect to use it funds. through the portal). (e.g. Matching Funds) in your If your application is determined to be The Agency is not responsible for any application. If your application is eligible, we will further evaluate it technical malfunctions or website funded, unexpected Program Income or based on the following criteria. All problems related to Grants.gov or Program Income earned in excess of the applications will be competitively emailed submissions. If you encounter amount you identify in your application ranked and the minimum score issues with Grants.gov, please contact will be deducted from the Federal share requirements for a cooperative the Grants.gov help desk at (800) 518– of the project in accordance with 2 CFR agreement award under this Notice is 60 4726 or [email protected]. The 200.307(e)(1). points. applicant assumes the risk of any delays vi. Prohibited Costs. In addition to 1. Evaluation Criteria: We will only in application submission through costs identified as unallowable by 2 CFR use the information that you provide in Grants.gov. part 200, the following costs are your application to evaluate your 5. Intergovernmental Review. prohibited for this program. Neither proposed project. We will not review Intergovernmental Review: Executive award funds nor matching funds can be references to websites or publications, Order (E.O.) 12372, Intergovernmental used to pay for the following types of so we encourage you to fully address Review of Federal Programs, applies to expenses. each criterion.

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i. Soundness of Approach (0–20 that partners with shared missions and both in terms of number of personnel points). The applicant can receive up to goals will be engaged to amplify reach and qualifications of personnel, to carry 20 points for soundness of approach. in rural areas. (10 points) out the approach identified. Capacity of The maximum 20 points for this b. The applicant demonstrates how personnel to access data for needs criterion will be based on the following: their proposal will support the quantity assessments and access to planners and a. The objectives must be clearly and quality of match commitments to other technical experts will be stated in the proposal and the applicant support this project, and percentage of evaluated. (5 points) must define how this proposal will be match in cash form versus in-kind v. Work Plan (0–15 points). The implemented. The applicant must contributions. (5 points) applicant can receive up to 15 points demonstrate how the proposal will c. The applicant will demonstrate based on the quality of the proposed strengthen the capacity of rural how their proposal will support the work plan and approach. The maximum communities in developing and ability of applicant to leverage other 15 points for this criterion will be based implementing regional plans for community-driven plans or projects on the following: economic development. The applicant such as Comprehensive Economic a. Applicants should use the must demonstrate how the proposed Development Strategies (CEDS) or other approved work plan template to include technical assistance includes both the Federally-recognized regional economic the following information: Description planning and implementation development plans. (5 points) of objective, background approach, components referenced in Section C. d. The applicant will demonstrate timeframe for key tasks along with The applicant must also demonstrate how their proposal will utilize substantial involvement, budget and how the proposed technical assistance partnerships outside of RD. The deliverables that are necessary to will expand rural communities’ ability applicant will identify such implement project to support regional to access funding and planning partnerships and will demonstrate how economic development planning in resources to convene community they will provide access to such rural communities. Reasonableness and members. The applicant must also partnerships to support implementation appropriateness of key tasks will be demonstrate how the proposal will of projects identified through evaluated based on proposed project support implementation of regional development of regional economic approach. (5 points) economic development plans and development plans. (10 points) b. The applicant’s proposal should should include descriptions on how iii. Innovation (0–10 points). The include a description of the types and proposed technical assistance will result applicant can receive up to 10 points for general locations of rural communities in actionable steps to support innovative methods and practices to to be served through this project, implementation of these plans. (10 support development of regional including the ability to support multiple points) economic development plans. The rural planning activities across the b. The applicant clearly outlines their maximum 10 points for this criterion nation and the reasonableness of ability to provide the proposed will be based on the following: effectively serving these communities technical assistance based on clearly a. The applicant’s proposal should based on key personnel, established stated and well-documented prior demonstrate the ability of the applicant timeframes, and budget. (5 points) accomplishments. (5 points) to propose methods and practices to c. The applicant’s proposal should c. The proposal clearly outlines how utilize unique and innovative planning include a description and it will implement activities to support methods that are currently not being appropriateness of the tasks to alignment with one or more of the five implemented at scale. (5 points) incorporate active participation from RD key strategies (achieving e-connectivity, b. The applicant’s proposal should staff. (5 points) developing the rural economy, demonstrate the ability of the applicant vi. Performance Outcomes (0–15 harnessing technological innovation, to demonstrate that the proposed points). The applicant can receive up to supporting a rural workforce, and innovative methods and practices have 15 points based on the quality of the improving quality of life in Rural been field-tested and ready to scale. (5 proposed performance measures to America) the Agriculture and Rural points) We are looking for unique and evaluate progress and impacts of Prosperity Task Force Report. (5 points) innovative ideas that are not currently proposed project. The maximum 15 ii. Partnerships (0–25 points). The being implemented at scale, so projects points for this criterion will be based on applicant can receive up to 25 points for that propose innovative solutions that the following: quality of the applicant’s existing haven’t been readily deployed before a. The applicant’s proposal should partnerships and proposed new will receive higher points. include a description for how the results partnerships for this effort. The iv. Organizational Capacity & of the technical assistance will be applicant must recruit one or more Qualifications (0–15 points). The measured, including the benchmarks to private and/or public partners to meet applicant can receive up to 15 points be used to measure effectiveness. match requirements and maximize based on organizational capacity and Benchmarks should be specific and leveraging of regional economic qualifications. The maximum 15 points quantifiable. (10 points) development plans developed through for this criterion will be based on the b. The applicant’s proposal should this project. The maximum 25 points for following: include a description of benchmarks this criterion will be based on the a. The applicant’s proposal should and outcomes achieved during following: demonstrate that the applicant has previously deployed planning efforts. (5 a. The applicant demonstrates how knowledge and prior experience in points) their proposal will focus on the quantity regional planning, particularly related to 2. Review and Selection Process: All and quality of partnerships, including rural issues. The applicant should eligible applications will be evaluated the ability to leverage new partners that specify years of experience, types of based on the process described below. have previously had limited engagement communities served, and outcomes i. Review Process. All eligible with RD projects or priorities to leverage achieved. (10 points) applications will be evaluated by an resources, enhance technical assistance, b. The applicant’s proposal should Application Review Panel using the and/or increase reach to underserved demonstrate that the applicant has criteria described in Section E.1 of this areas. The proposal must demonstrate identified appropriate key personnel, Notice. Panel members will be

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appointed by the Agency and they will k. Obtain a certification on Form AD– iii. Report Suitable for Public be qualified to evaluate the applications, 1048, ‘‘Certification Regarding Distribution: A report suitable for public based on the type of work proposed by Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility distribution that describes the the applicant. and Voluntary Exclusion-Lower Tier accomplishments of the project is due ii. Selection Process. Applications Covered Transactions,’’ from anyone within 90 calendar days of the will be ranked in descending order, you do business with as a result of this completion of the project. There is no according to the scores awarded by the award. format prescribed for this report, but it Panel. Applications will be funded in l. Execute Form AD–1049, is expected that it will be 1–2 pages in rank order, until all available funds ‘‘Certification Regarding a Drug-Free length and describe the project in such have been expended. Applications at or Workplace Requirements (Grants).’’ a way that a member of the public not near the funding line may be funded in m. Execute Form AD–3031, familiar with the project would gain an part, if the Agency believes an ‘‘Assurance Regarding Felony understanding of the impact of the appropriate benefit can result from Conviction or Tax Delinquent Status for project. partial funding and if the applicant Corporate Applicants.’’ VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contact agrees to the amount of partial funding. n. Execute Form RD 400–4, In the event the Agency considers ‘‘Assurance Agreement.’’ If you have questions, you may partial funding to be appropriate, we Once the conditions described in the contact Christine Sorensen at 202–568– will contact the applicant and negotiate LOC have been met, the award will be 9832 or Christine.Sorensen@ the final work plan and budget prior to approved through the execution of Form wdc.usda.gov. approving an award. RD 4280–2 in conjunction with the VIII. Notice to Applicants iii. Anticipated Announcement and RDCA Program Attachment. If an The Federal Government is not Award Dates. All awards must be applicant is unable to meet the obligated to make any Federal award as obligated by September 30, 2018. conditions of the award within 90 a result of this announcement. Only calendar days, the award will be VI. Award Administration Information authorized Federal officials can bind the withdrawn. 1. Federal Award Notices: Federal Government to the expenditure ii. Unsuccessful applicants. of funds. i. Successful applicants. Successful Unsuccessful applicants will be notified applicants will be notified in writing by in writing no later than October 31, IX. Nondiscrimination Statement the Agency with a Letter of Conditions 2018. In accordance with Federal civil (LOC). The LOC is a notice of selection 2. Administrative and National Policy and does not indicate that an award has rights law and U.S. Department of Requirements. The terms of the award Agriculture (USDA) civil rights been approved, nor is it an are available at: http:// authorization to begin performance on regulations and policies, the USDA, its forms.sc.egov.usda.gov/efcommon/ Agencies, offices, and employees, and the award. While there may be special eFileServices/eForms/RD4280-2.PDF. conditions that apply on a case-by-case institutions participating in or 3. Reporting Requirements. The basis, the following conditions are administering USDA programs are following reporting requirements apply standard for all successful applicants. prohibited from discriminating based on to awards made through this program. a. Complete Form RD 1942–46, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, i. Performance Reports: Form SF– ‘‘Letter of Intent to Meet Conditions.’’ gender identity (including gender b. Complete Form RD 1940–1, PPR, ‘‘Performance Progress Report,’’ expression), sexual orientation, ‘‘Request for Obligation of Funds.’’ must be submitted quarterly based on disability, age, marital status, family/ c. Complete FMMI Vendor Code the following time periods: January 1– parental status, income derived from a Request Form. March 31, April 1–June 30, July 1– public assistance program. Political d. Provide a copy of your September 30, and October 1–December beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior organization’s Negotiated Indirect Cost 31. Quarterly reports are due within 30 civil rights activity, in any program or Rate Agreement. calendar days of the end of the reporting activity conducted or funded by USDA e. Certify that all work completed for period. A final report is due within 90 (not all bases apply to all programs). the award will benefit a rural area. calendar days of the completion of the Remedies and complaint filing f. Certify that you will comply with project or the end of the period of deadlines vary by program or incident. the Federal Funding Accountability and performance, whichever comes first. Persons with disabilities who require Transparency Act of 2006 and report Both quarterly and final performance alternative means of communication for information about subawards and reports must be submitted electronically program information (e.g., Braille, large executive compensation. to 202–568–9832 or print, audiotape, American Sign g. Certify that the U.S. has not [email protected]. Language, etc.) should contact the obtained an outstanding judgement ii. Financial Report: Form SF–425, responsible Agency or USDA’s TARTET against your organization in a Federal ‘‘Federal Financial Report’’ must be Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and Court (other than in the United States submitted quarterly based on the TTY) or contact USDA through the Tax Court). following time periods: January 1– Federal Relay Service at (800) 877–8339. h. Execute Form SF–424B, March 31, April 1–June 30, July 1– Additionally, program information may ‘‘Assurances—Non-Construction September 30, October 1–December 31. be made available in languages other Programs.’’ Quarterly reports are due within 30 than English. i. Execute Form SF–LLL, ‘‘Disclosure calendar days of the end of the reporting To file a program discrimination Form to Report Lobbying,’’ if applicable period. A final report is due within 90 complaint, complete the USDA Program or certify that your organization does calendar days of the completion of the Discrimination Complaint Form, AD– not lobby. project or the end of the period of 3027, found online at: http:// j. Execute Form AD–1047, performance, whichever is comes first. www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_ ‘‘Certification Regarding Debarment, Both quarterly and final reports must be cust.html, and at any USDA office or Suspension, and Other Responsibility submitted electronically to write a letter addressed to USDA and Matters-Primary Covered Transactions.’’ [email protected]. provide in the letter all of the

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information requested in the form. To Independence Avenue SW, Washington, Dated: August 10, 2018. request a copy of a complaint form, call, DC 20250–9410; Anne Hazlett, (866) 632–9992. Submit your completed 2. Fax: (202) 690–7442; or Assistant to the Secretary, USDA Rural form or letter to USDA by: Development. 3. Email at: [email protected]. 1. Mail: U.S. Department of BILLING CODE 3410–15–P Agriculture, Office of the Assistant USDA is an equal opportunity Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 provider, employer, and lender.

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RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INNOVATION (REDI)

FY18 COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT

APPLICATION PACKAGE CHECKLIST

D Application Forms (in Grants.gov application package).

D Executive Summary (1-page maximum).

D Applicant Qualifications (1-2 pages).

D Key Personnel Qualifications (1-2 pages).

D Project Proposal (15-page maximum).

D Project Background.

D Project Objectives.

D Project Methods.

D Geographic Location or Project Areas.

D Project Management (Applicants are required to include a Work Plan Chart that

lists each major Task by Key Personnel involved, Time Period of the task,

Substantial Involvement of Rural Development staff, Deliverables, and Budget

associated with each task).

D Performance Measures.

D Graphics, References, Citations (Do not count against the 15-page maximum)

D Letters of Support (i.e. match requirement, additional resource commitment from

partners, etc.).

D Budget Information (10-page maximum).

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[FR Doc. 2018–17765 Filed 8–16–18; 8:45 am] • Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery: www.rd.usda.gov/files/3555- BILLING CODE 3410–15–C Please send your comments addressed 1chapter07.pdf) as the current Fannie to Kate Jensen, Finance and Loan Mae posted yield for 90-day delivery Analyst, Single Family Housing (Actual/Actual), plus one percent for 30- DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Guaranteed Loan Program, USDA Rural year fixed rate conventional loans, Development, 1400 Independence rounded up to the nearest one quarter of Rural Housing Service Avenue, STOP 0784, Room 2250, one percent. The Agency is considering Washington, DC 20250–1522. whether to modify the maximum Establishment of Maximum Interest FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: interest rate and would like stakeholder Rate Kate Jensen, Finance and Loan Analyst, at feedback on the issue. AGENCY: Rural Housing Service, USDA. [email protected] or (503) 894– The following questions and discussion items are posed to guide ACTION: Request for information. 2382. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: stakeholder comments. Where possible, SUMMARY: RHS requests that comments include The Rural Housing Service Background (RHS or Agency) seeks public comments specific suggestions regarding ways to on updating the provisions of the Single RHS delivers programs authorized by improve existing programs and delivery Family Housing Guaranteed Loan the Housing Act of 1949, as amended mechanisms and eliminate or minimize Program (SFHGLP), specifically (42 U.S.C. 1472 et seq.) (Housing Act). the duplication of RHS’s regulation and regarding the maximum interest rate, its The preamble to the Housing Act policies with work performed by other impact on loan making to potential declares that every American deserves a entities, including federal, state, and SFHGLP borrowers, and possible ‘‘decent home and a suitable living local agencies. RHS welcomes pertinent changes to the interest rate cap. RHS is environment.’’ RHS guarantees a variety comments that are beyond the scope of soliciting input regarding the maximum of housing loans for home purchases, these questions. interest rate to help the Agency repair, and rental housing development 1. Should the Agency continue with determine whether the interest rate cap in rural areas. The SFHGLP provides the requirement that the maximum should be modified in order to support low- and moderate-income borrowers allowable interest rate shall not exceed the agency’s mission to offer applicants, access to mortgage credit by the current Federal National Mortgage who are unable to secure the credit guaranteeing loans issued by agency- Association posted yield for 90-day necessary for such housing from other approved private sector lenders. Loans delivery (Actual/Actual) plus one sources under conventional credit may finance the full construction and percent for 30-year fixed rate terms, an opportunity to acquire new or acquisition cost of a property up to 100 conventional loans, rounded up to the existing housing for use as a primary percent of the appraised value. nearest one quarter of one percent? residence; finance the repair and Mortgages have 30-year terms and fixed 2. Should the Agency consider rehabilitation costs associated with the rates negotiated with the lender that indexing the maximum allowable purchase of the home; and refinance an cannot exceed an interest rate cap that interest rate to a source other than the existing Section 502 loan to lower the is determined by the Agency. Financing Federal National Mortgage Association? interest rate. may also be used to refinance existing 3. Should a higher maximum These opportunities are provided to USDA guaranteed or direct loans. The allowable interest rate cap be applicants under terms and conditions program maintains its neutral or slightly established? If so, what maximum rate which the applicant can reasonably be negative subsidy status through is recommended, and why? expected to fulfill. guarantee and annual loan fees. 4. Does the current maximum interest rate create any barriers to loan making DATES: Written Comments: Interested Request for Comment in eligible rural areas? If so, how and parties must submit written comments Stakeholder input is vital to ensure under what circumstances? on or before October 16, 2018. that the maximum interest rate 5. What effect would increasing or ADDRESSES: Submit comments in either continues to support the agency’s eliminating the maximum interest rate paper or electronic format by the mission and not overly burden SFHGLP have for loan originators and borrowers following methods: lenders and their customers. Currently, in underserved populations and rural • Federal eRulemaking Portal at the maximum allowable interest rate is communities? http://www.regulations.gov. Follow defined in Section 7.3.B of the program 6. If the maximum allowable interest instructions for submitting comments. handbook (available at https:// rate cap were to be increased or

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