Section 137-6-003 - RANKING FACTORSThe Project Ranking Systems shall assign a numeric value to each criterion and combine these values into a total score for each application. Each Ranking System shall include, but is not limited to, criteria to evaluate each application to the extent that the project will accomplish the following:
003.01HELP THE BOARD ATTAIN A GEOGRAPHIC MIX OF PROJECTS OVER TIME. This does not mean that a strict geographic mix will be sought during each funding cycle, but that points may be awarded to projects in specific areas if it becomes apparent that the area is receiving funding for proportionately fewer projects than other areas of the state.003.02BE COST EFFECTIVE. Cost effective shall include, as applicable, a comparison of the cost of the project to its expected monetary and non-monetary benefits and whether there is another reasonably available means of accomplishing the same purpose or purposes more economically. A high indirect labor and overhead cost not directly related to the project direct costs is less cost effective than one with a low indirect rate or percentage. Data shall be provided by the applicant detailing the cost effectiveness of all budgeted expenses requested that includes the provided indirect rates.003.03HAVE ECONOMIC IMPACTS. Economic impacts resulting from the project may be realized in increased real property valuations, mitigation of environmental hazards to the natural physical and biological environment in Nebraska, an improvement of or increase in habitat, increased recreational opportunities, and other contributions to the wellbeing of the area affected by the project. Data shall be provided by the applicant detailing the proposed economic impacts of the project.003.04PRODUCE DIRECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. Direct environmental impacts are those changes to the natural, physical, and biological environment caused by the project occurring at the time and in the place the project is carried out.003.05PRODUCE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, ESPECIALLY BENEFITS WHICH ARE LONG TERM IN NATURE. A long-term public benefit is defined as public benefits lasting in excess of ten (10) years. A project that is intended to extend beyond three (3) years in duration and can demonstrate that it can continue without NET Board support can be deemed a sustainable general public benefit. Projects less than three (3) years in duration must have a defined general public benefit listed in the application. Public access can be considered a general public benefit.003.06PROVIDE A PLAN FOR EVALUATING THE RESULTS OF THE EXPENDITURE OF GRANT FUNDS. An applicant shall provide a baseline measurement, the target improvement, and the real time value of the grant investment. The project goals, objectives and outcomes shall identify the tangible and intangible benefits to the public from achieving the objectives.003.07EVALUATE PERFORMANCE. For prior awarded grantees, awarded in the past three years looking back from the current application cycle, compliance with previous contract terms is required, including that any prior project was completed on time, quarterly, annual and final reports were submitted on time, no 15 Day Notice for a prior grant contract violation was issued to the grant Sponsor or Applicant.137 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 6, § 003
Amended effective 5/8/2018Amended effective 8/12/2023