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CONTRACT K-1516-52: A CONTRACT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NORMAN, OKLAHOMA, AND THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL AND PLANT INSPECTION SERVICES, WILDLIFE SERVICES FOR A FIVE YEAR COOPERATIVE SERVICE AGREEMENT.
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BACKGROUND: In order to provide for the free flow of streams in the urban area of Norman, it is necessary from time to time to remove aquatic rodents from the environment of these streams. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a program to provide for the control of these rodents. In addition, the USDA is the organization that establishes the regulations for proper treatment of these animals. As a result, the City can be assured that the USDA officials will proceed with the proper degree of care and respect for the animals that are removed from the stream. On July 14, 2015, the City Council approved the annual Financial/Work Plan, K-1516-3, with the USDA for Fiscal Year 2016.
DISCUSSION: Subsequent to the approval of the annual Financial/Work Plan with the USDA for Fiscal Year 2016, staff was informed that the city would be required to approve a Cooperative Service Agreement with the USDA. This agreement outlines the individual and mutual responsibilities between and with the City of Norman and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Cooperative Service Agreement with the USDA will be in effect for a period not to exceed five years. If approved, the U.S. Department of Agriculture personnel will respond to requests from the staff of the Public Works Department to remove rodents in areas where problems with flooding of adjacent improvements will occur without this intervention. Public Works will still bring forward the annual Financial/Work Plan with the USDA for Council approval.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of Contract K-1516-52 and authorization of the Mayor to execute that agreement on behalf of the City.