TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute an agreement, including any necessary amendments, with the United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, to provide Wildlife Biologist services at the Long Beach Airport, in an amount not to exceed $208,672, for a three-year period. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (USDAWS), mandates airports to band birds that are captured and relocated, which requires special federal permits. For the past several years, the USDAWS has been providing this service to the Airport. The existing agreement expires December 31, 2019.
The USDAWS has Wildlife Biologists that perform wildlife management services at other airports that are governed by Title 14, Part 139 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR Part 139 - Airport Certification). In addition, the USDAWS biologists have the required skills and special permits for banding and relocating birds.
The recommended agreement with USDAWS will provide the Long Beach Airport (Airport) the services of a qualified Wildlife Biologist, on a part-time basis, who will provide the following services:
• Technical assistance on wildlife mitigation activities, including ongoing compliance with relevant federal, state and local laws and regulations. The Biologist will train Airport staff in hazing, wildlife identification, bird strike notification procedures, provide data and assist in preparation of the Airport’s United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) depredation permit report and application;
• Conduct wildlife monitoring surveys in support of existing Wildlife Hazard Assessment;
• Assist in the maintenance of the Wildlife Hazard Management Plan; and,
• Respond to wildlife strike incidents during working hours and provide removal services and document the strike report in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard F. Anthony on October 7, 2019 and by Budget Analysis Officer Julissa José-Murray on October 23, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on November 12, 2019, to prevent any lapse in services.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total cost of the contract for the three-year period is $208,672. Sufficient appropriation for this cost is budgeted in the Airport Fund Group in the Airport Department. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with the recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
CYNTHIA GUIDRY
DIRECTOR, LONG BEACH AIRPORT
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
ACTING CITY MANAGER