HEAD START PROGRAM - DP

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

Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners adopted Resolution R-494-26, retroactively approving and authorizing the application for and acceptance of $375,939,525.00 in grant funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the continuation of the Head Start Program for a new five-year grant period 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. 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. Public comment included a discussion regarding the County's continued administration of the Head Start program versus transferring it to the School Board, with arguments presented on the County's operational expertise and wrap-around services versus the School District's potential effectiveness and existing services. An amendment was also made to authorize the negotiation of a lease agreement for modular units with the School Board.