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CONTRACT K-1819-7: A CONTRACT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NORMAN, OKLAHOMA, AND THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICES, WILDLIFE SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,500 FOR THE ANNUAL FINANCIAL/WORK PLAN FOR CONTROL OF AQUATIC RODENTS EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2018, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2019.
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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.
DISCUSSION: This Financial/Work Plan has been renewed annually for a number of years at the beginning of the fiscal year. If approved, the USDA 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 2018-2019 is $12,500. In FYE 2018, there were over 40 calls from the public 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 Stormwater Division contains the funding for this agreement in Other Professional Services (account 010-5022-431.40-99).
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of Contract K-1819-7 and authorization of the Mayor to execute that agreement on behalf of the City.