Title
CONTRACT NO. K-1415-3: A CONTRACT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NORMAN, OKLAHOMA, AND UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL AND PLANT INSPECTION SERVICES, WILDLIFE SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,500 FOR THE CONTROL OF AQUATIC RODENTS THROUGH JUNE 30, 2015.
Body
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 streams.
DISCUSSION: This agreement has been renewed annually for a number of years at the beginning of the fiscal year. 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. The budgeted amount for this service for fiscal year 2014-2015 is $12,500. In FYE 2014, there were 15 calls as well as staff generated requests for service on this Contract and $12,500 funds were expended. Those calls for service came from all parts of Norman including Brookhaven Creek, Imhoff Creek, Merkle Creek, Bishop Creek, Dave Blue Creek and various culverts. The operating budget of the Storm Water Division contains the funding for this agreement in Other Professional Services (account 010-5022-431.40-99).
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of Contract No. K-1415-3 and authorization for the Mayor to execute that agreement on behalf of the City.