Title
Authorization to Enter into an agreement with The Nature Conservancy (Ordinance S-50219)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with The Nature Conservancy, which has partnered with the City of Phoenix since 2017, to fund projects designed to protect the flows and improve water quality in the Salt and Verde Rivers. The aggregate value will not exceed $450,000 over the life of the agreement. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Report
Summary
The Water Services Department obtains more than half of its raw water supply from the Salt and Verde watersheds. Reliable flows and water quality are critical to the City. Disruptions caused by catastrophic wildfire and sedimentation could result in increased water treatment costs and/or service interruptions. It is in the City's best interest to enter into this strategic partnership to mitigate risks to the rivers and in doing so, to provide leadership to other Valley water providers. By designing and implementing cost-effective and protective Salt-Verde watershed projects, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) will help create water security that supports continued public safety and economic development. Funds for these projects will be used in TNC's Forest Program to mitigate and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire in the Salt and Verde watersheds. In addition to paid staff, TNC's extensive use of volunteers result in more Phoenix funding applied directly to watershed management projects.
Procurement Information
In accordance with City of Phoenix Administrative Regulation 3.10, competitive procurement was waived as a result of a Determination Memo citing the unusual nature of the goods or services that require a specific vendor due to TNC's network of private and public partners funding the project on the Verde River. TNC provides a unique opportunity for the City to fund collaborative projects that positively impact Phoenix's original water supply.
Contract Term
The contract term is for three years effective Nov. 1, 2023, through Oct. 31, 2026.
Financial Impact
The aggregate value of the contract will not exceed $450,000 with annual expenditures of $150,000. Funding for this contract is available in the Water Services Department's operating budget.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Ginger Spencer and the Water Services Department.