HEAD START PROGRAM - DP

Board of County Commissioners · 2026-06-02 · resolution

Miami-Dade County Commissioners adopted a resolution retroactively approving the application for and acceptance of $375,939,525.00 in grant funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for the continuation of the Head Start Program. The grant period is from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2031. The resolution authorizes the expenditure of these funds and a non-competitive designated purchase to award contracts (D-10669A through D-10669Q) to seventeen Head Start delegate agencies. These agencies, including 16 not-for-profit organizations and the School Board of Miami-Dade County, have been providing services since 2012. The County Mayor or designee is authorized to award these contracts, apply for future funds, negotiate agreements, solicit new delegate agencies if needed, and execute documents for student internships. An amendment was made to authorize the negotiation of a lease agreement for modular units with the School Board of Miami-Dade County. Public comment included a discussion about the County's role in administering the program versus transferring it to the School District, with arguments citing the County's extensive experience and integrated social services network versus the School District's potential for similar services.