Explanation
Background: In 2011, city leaders, in coordination with the Forestry Section of the Recreation and Parks Department, committed to an organized project approach to address the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) crisis. To date, more than 30,000 ash trees have been lost and removed city wide. As the EAB project focuses on its last primary objective of reforestation, new related objectives have been created as part of the new Urban Forestry Master Plan (UFMP). These objectives now include preservation of existing canopy and social equity. As a result, the EAB project is now transitioning into the newly emerging Urban Forestry Master Plan. This ordinance will allow immediate funding for administration, staffing, services, supplies, tree replacements, and to remove hazardous trees. The staffing, supplies, services, and equipment needs that will be paid for as part of this funding request will include, but are not limited to, tree removal contracts, stump removal contracts, tree replacement contracts, cellular service contracts, office supplies, uniforms, computer supplies, forestry supplies, and safety equipment. All supply, service, and equipment needs related to the EAB response have been established as one overall capital improvement approved project. Each direct purchase order, or universal term contract will be written separately based on all City of Columbus Codes that apply.
This ordinance is requesting the authorization of $508,985.62 in voted bond funds and the authorization for the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into various contracts relating to the Emerald Ash Borer and Urban Forestry Master Plan management process. This ordinance will establish auditor's certificates and authorize expenditures in conjunction with the management of the Emerald Ash Borer infestation and Urban Forestry Master Plan. Contracts will be entered in compliance with the relevant provisions of Columbus City Code Chapter 329, however this legislation will set up all of th...
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