(1) A general funding cycle schedule is provided in Figure 1.
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(2) In general, the department will provide the following services, although annual modifications may be made to accommodate legislative schedules and requirements:
(a) Make available the application and applicable guidelines before the associated funding cycle begins;
(b) Conduct at least one application workshop in each of ecology's four regions;
(c) Conduct preapplication workshops to discuss regional level priorities if applicable;
(d) After the application deadline, complete an initial review of project proposals for funding eligibility;
(e) Request other agencies to provide evaluation assistance as needed;
(f) Rate and rank the applications using a consistent scoring system;
(g) Develop a combined Draft Offer and Applicant List;
(h) Facilitate a public review and comment period for the combined Draft Offer and Applicant List;
(i) Sponsor at least one public meeting to explain the combined Draft Offer and Applicant List;
(j) Develop a combined Final Offer and Applicant List. Public comments collected during the public review period will be incorporated;
(k) Issue funding decision letters to all applicants; and
(l) Negotiate, develop, and finalize loan or grant agreements.