Explanation
Background
This legislation authorizes the Director of Development to enter into contract with MKSK Inc., in an amount up to $250,000.00, to update the Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan. Approval is requested for reimbursement of preliminary research and preparation expenses incurred prior to execution of the purchase order, starting November 2, 2024. The contract will be for a period of twelve months with one optional twelve-month extension.
The Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan was adopted by the City of Columbus and partner jurisdictions in 2006. The central objective of the Plan is protecting the Big Darby Creek by balancing conservation and development in a manner that allows for responsible growth and long-term sustainability of the watershed.
Significant steps have been taken since that time to implement the Plan. Overall water quality has improved, hundreds of acres of sensitive natural areas have been acquired. Riparian corridors have been restored. Darby-specific stormwater regulations are now in place. New development has featured best management practices and green infrastructure solutions.
While the Accord has advanced many of the goals established by partner jurisdictions, changing circumstances call for a strategic reevaluation and update of the plan. At an October 24, 2024 meeting, Accord partner jurisdictions concurred with the need to revisit the document. As the convener of the October meeting, Columbus is prepared to lead the update initiative.
This legislation allows the Department of Development to engage the MKSK consulting firm for planning services in support of the update. MKSK was part of the consultant team that developed the current Accord document and is well positioned to undertake this task. Accordingly, the department is asking that competitive bidding be waived.
Emergency action is requested in order to expedite the work, thereby ensuring that the Accord remains a current and meaningful guide...
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