02-29-16-R - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Page 1 of 2 DATE: February 29, 2016 TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers Sue Iverson, Acting City Administrator FROM: John Anderson, Acting Public Works Director SUBJECT: 2016 Rain Water Garden Planting, Engineering Services Requested Action Accept proposal from Elfering and Associates dated February 4, 2016, in the amount of $8,900 for design of planting layouts, coordination with residents, obtaining pricing for plant materials and assisting in planting layout of the 23 rain water gardens. Background The Rice Creek Watershed District Rules require the City install storm water treatment in conjunction with construction of the 2015 PMP. The construction that took place in 2015 prepared rain water gardens for planting by excavating, installing drain tile, and placement of planting soil and mulch. Rain Water Gardens located in front yards were only put in if the residents volunteered the space. When we solicited volunteers for rain water gardens, residents were told the planting would be done in 2016. We also told residents that the City would partner with them on maintenance of the gardens. Some basic planting plans were described but residents were told specific plans to each garden would be developed and shared before planting begins. Discussion In order to proceed with the rain water garden planting we need to assemble planting layouts, coordinate with residents, get quotes for plant materials, physically mark layout, and plant the plant materials. In 2015 we had planned to do this work though the Assistant City Engineer as the lead and I did most of the leg work in collecting volunteers, mailing information to residents, etc. With the current limitations on my time, I am unable to devote the time needed to this process and need assistance to complete the preparations for planting. All of this work described is the planning and preparation prior to the actual planting of the plants. CONSENT ITEM – 6F MEMORANDUM