Section 001-36-3 - ADMINISTRATION1.Selection of an Administrating OrganizationThe Department may contract the administration of this Program to a Suitable Organization selected through a competitive process determined by the Department.
2.Eligibility Requirements of the Organization Contracted to Administer the ProgramA. Any organization is eligible to apply for contractor status to administer the Program.B. The organization must be able to perform all the duties outlined in Section 3.3 below.3.Program Administrator DutiesIt shall be the responsibility of the Program Administrator to:
A. Promote the program to farms in the State and solicit applications as specified in Section 6.3. B. Organize and oversee the Review Panel.C. Work with the Department to periodically review the criteria developed for the selection of applicants for participation in the business plan development and investment support programs, and make recommendations to the Department for changes as appropriate.D. Compile a list of Service Providers.E. Assemble and monitor a Services Package to assist selected farm applicants with developing a Business Plan and work with the Department to administer the disbursement of business planning grants to farm grantees.F. Work with the Department to verify selected applicants' required matching funds, finalize Farmland Protection Agreements, and administer the disbursement of the investment support grants to farm grantees.G. Submit quarterly progress reports to the Department.H. Survey, evaluate and report annually to the Department by December 30th of each year on the impact and effectiveness of the program.01-001 C.M.R. ch. 36, § 3