TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute all documents necessary to enter into a grant agreement with the US Army Corps of Engineers to accept a grant in the amount of $1,000,000; and increase appropriations in the Tidelands Operating Fund (TF 401) in the Department of Public Works (PW) by $1,000,000 in FY 2012, upon execution of the agreement. (District 3)
DISCUSSION
The Colorado Lagoon (Lagoon) is a 28.3-acre tidal lagoon located in the middle of a suburban neighborhood (location map attached). It serves three main functions: 1.) hosts sensitive estuarine habitat; 2.) provides public recreation (including swimming); and, 3.) retains and conveys storm flows. A Master Restoration Plan for Colorado Lagoon (Master Plan) has been developed and is being implemented as funding becomes available.
On September 7, 2010, the City Council authorized the City Manager to execute an Agreement for $1,000,000 in work-in-kind services with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) to allow for the dredging, treatment and disposal of contaminated sediment from the western arm of Colorado Lagoon. The Army Corps is instead considering granting the funds directly to the City under a cost-reimbursement Funding Agreement. While the Army Corps has not provided final approval for the funding, staff is working closely with them and anticipates approval within the next two months. Upon execution of the Funding Agreement, staff will return to the City Council to award a construction contract to begin the dredging project.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Linda Trang on August 19, 2011 and by Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on August 18, 2011.
SUSTAINABILITY
The purpose of the Colorado Lagoon Restoration project is to improve water and sediment quality. Recreational opportunities and the wetland habitat will be significantly improved as a result of this project.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action on this matter is required on September 6, 2011, in order to meet grant deadlines and stay on schedule to begin dredging this fall to utilize the Port of Long Beach's available sediment disposal site.
FISCAL IMPACT
The recommendation includes an appropriation increase in the Tidelands Operating Fund (TF 401) in the Department of Public Works (PW) for $1,000,000 upon execution of the Army Corps Funding Agreement, which is anticipated to occur in October 2011. This action will not generate any jobs, and there is no impact to the General Fund associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
MICHAEL CONWAY
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER