Application for assistance; forestry plan

(30 ILCS 735/5) (from Ch. 96 1/2, par. 9305)     Sec. 5. Application for assistance; forestry plan.     (a) Applicants may submit an Urban and Community Forestry Proposal for assistance under the provisions of this Act.     (b) Requests for grant assistance shall include, but shall not be limited to, those activities that will implement or enhance:         (1) current Illinois Forest Action Plan objectives;         (2) local forestry program management objectives as     determined by an urban and community forestry management plan;        (3) tree canopy capacity in underserved and     disadvantaged areas of communities or counties; or        (4) urban and community forest canopy in Illinois     communities and counties.    (c) Multiple applicants may apply jointly for assistance under this Act, but payments shall be paid only in the manner prescribed by the Department in the grant award.     (d) The Department shall evaluate the application and notify the applicant of the qualification or non-qualification of the application. The evaluation shall consider, among other factors, the effect of the proposal on the following:         (1) The facilitation of improvements to the quality     of the environment in Illinois forests, urban areas, and green space areas within the applicant's jurisdiction through the improved management and preservation of the urban and community forest resources for the common good, health, welfare, and safety of the citizens of this State.        (2) The creation of employment opportunities in tree     care, tree preservation, and related urban and community forestry activities.        (3) The improvement of human health, environmental     access, and tree cover to reduce urban heat island effects and energy consumption.        (4) The establishment and commitment to the     management and improvement of the forest resources of the community.        (5) An increased public awareness.         (6) Increased participation of local citizenry and     volunteers.        (7) Increased assistance to underserved or     disadvantaged Illinois communities or counties. (Source: P.A. 104-421, eff. 1-1-26.)