Title
Authorization to Enter into an Agreement with National Forest Foundation (Ordinance S-44721)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to conduct forest restoration and watershed enhancement projects that protect the water quality in the Salt and Verde Rivers. The aggregate value will not exceed $600,000 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 highly-forested Salt and Verde watershed and its suitable water quality is critical to the City. Experts advise that in the future, forest fires will ensue over longer seasons, be larger, and more numerous. These conditions have a high potential to degrade source water quality and negatively impact the City’s water production processes. It is in the City’s best interest to enter into this strategic partnership to mitigate these risks. NFF will help create water security that supports continued public safety and economic development by designing and implementing cost-effective and protective Salt-Verde watershed projects. Funds for these projects will be committed to NFF’s Northern Arizona Forest Fund.
Procurement Information
In accordance with City of Phoenix Administrative Regulation 3.10, competitive procurement was waived as a result of a Determination Memo citing NFF has the only congressionally-chartered partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and expertise in projects which reduce erosion and sedimentation. NFF provides a singular opportunity for the City to participate in funding projects that lessen wildfire-related impacts which impair near- and long-term water quality.
Contract Term
The contract term is for three years effective July 1, 2018, through June 30, 2021.
Financial Impact
The aggregate value of the contract is not to exceed $600,000, with annual expenditures of $200,000. 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 Karen Peters and the Water Services Department.