Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. for the Street Tree Installation - ODNR Grant - Fall 2026 Project. The contract amount is $252,000.00. An additional $2,500.00 is being authorized for interdepartmental inspections and fees for a total of $254,500.00 being authorized by this ordinance.
This project consists of installing 600 trees as part of an Ohio Department of Natural Resources grant throughout designated census tracts in various Columbus neighborhoods. The tree plantings will help replace tree species that have been removed throughout the city due to tree mortality. The project will also plant new trees in areas that previously did not have trees. The tree plantings will represent a diverse species of trees selected specifically for each planting location, taking into consideration the specific site restrictions that each location has while not interfering with nearby utilities or structures. This project is an effort to replace some of our lost Urban Tree Canopy and reduce storm water run-off in the areas receiving new trees. It will also help create a positive psychological impact on residents to support mental and physical wellbeing.
Vendor Bid/Proposal Submissions:
Bids were advertised through Vendor Services, in accordance with City Code Chapter 329, on March 31, 2026 and received by the Recreation and Parks Department on April 21, 2026. Bids were received from the following companies:
Greenscapes Landscape Company: $252,000.00
After reviewing the bids that were submitted, it was determined that Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. was the lowest and most responsive bidder. Greenscape Landscape Company, Inc. and all proposed subcontractors have met code requirements with respect to prequalification, pursuant to relevant sections of Columbus City Code Chapter 329.
Principal Parties:
Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc.
4220 Winchester Pike, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Matt Rietschlin, (614) 830-2602
Contract Compliance Number: 004614
Contract Compliance Expiration Date: March 5, 2027
Benefits to the Public: This project will increase the Urban Tree Canopy in the City of Columbus. The new trees will help reduce storm water runoff, air pollution, and heat-island effects. As a result, utility costs to nearby homes and businesses should be reduced. Trees also have a positive psychological impact on residents helping to support mental and physical well being.
Community Input/Issues: The majority of the trees being planted as part of this contract have been requested by the property owners.
Area(s) Affected: Citywide (99)
Master Plan Relation: This project supports the Recreation and Parks Department’s Master Plan by planting trees intended to both replace and add to the City of Columbus’ Urban Tree Canopy.
Fiscal Impact: $254,500.00 is budgeted and available from within the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund 2283 to meet the financial obligations of this contract.
Title
To authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. for the Street Tree Installation - ODNR Grant - Fall 2026 Project; and to authorize the expenditure of $254,500.00 from the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund. ($254,500.00)
Body
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks to enter into contract with Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. for the Street Tree Installation - ODNR Grant - Fall 2026 Project; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize the expenditure of $254,500.00 from the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund 2283; and
WHEREAS, it has become necessary in the usual daily operations of the Recreation and Parks Department in that it is necessary to authorize the Director to enter into contract with Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. for the Street Tree Installation - ODNR Grant - Fall 2026 Project, NOW, THEREFORE
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the Director of Recreation and Parks be and is hereby authorized to enter into contract with Greenscapes Landscape Company, Inc. for the Street Tree Installation - ODNR Grant - Fall 2026 Project.
SECTION 2. That the funds necessary to carry out the purpose of this ordinance are hereby deemed appropriated, and the City Auditor shall establish such accounting codes as necessary.
SECTION 3. That the City Auditor is authorized to make any accounting changes to revise the funding source for all contracts or contract modifications associated with this ordinance.
SECTION 4. That the City Auditor is hereby authorized to transfer the unencumbered balance in a project account to the unallocated balance account within the same fund upon receipt of certification by the Director of the Department administering said project that the project has been completed and the monies are no longer required for said project.
SECTION 5. For the purpose stated in Section 1, the expenditure of $254,500.00 or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the cost thereof, be and is hereby authorized from the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund 2283 in object class 03 Services per the accounting codes in the attachments to this ordinance.
SECTION 6. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period allowed by law.