Title
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT WITH WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS FOR THE REMOVAL OF INVASIVE SPECIES FROM THE WESTERN WATERFRONT TRAIL CORRIDOR IN THE AMOUNT OF $179,501.
Body
CITY PROPOSAL:
RESOLVED, that the proper city officials are hereby authorized to enter into a contract with Wetland Habitat Restorations for the removal of invasive species, including, but not limited to buckthorn and honeysuckle, from the Western Waterfront trail corridor in the amount of $179,501, payable from Tourism & Recreational Projects 452; Finance 030; Improvements Other than Buildings 5530; Project: HANDHTAX-1501-01 - Half & Half Tax Projects, Western Waterfront Trail, Corridor Restoration.
Statement of Purpose
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: This resolution authorizes a contract with Wetland Habitat Restorations for phase one removal of invasive plant species and restoration of native species in the Western Waterfront Trail Corridor Restoration Area in the amount of $179,501. Phase one includes 125 acres. Work plan and maps are attached as Exhibit B. Subsequent phases will restore up to an additional 223 acres for a total of up to 348 acres. Measurable outcomes will include enhanced views from the trail to the river, enhanced access from the trail to the river, and wildlife habitat enhancement, particularly for neotropical migrant birds.
The project is funded by a $400,000 State of Minnesota Conservation Partners Legacy - Metro grant coupled with a $175,000 City of Duluth match funded by the half and half tax. The project is being carried out in association with grant-funded restoration of the Western Waterfront Trail itself.
The purchasing division posted a request for bids on the City’s website January 13th and received three bids by the closing date. City professional staff reviewed and verified each bid and determined that Wetland Habitat Restorations had the lowest complete bid. Bid tabulation is attached as Exhibit A.