TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager to execute documents necessary to accept and expend funds from the State of California, Department of Boating and Waterways (DBAW), to reimburse the City for costs incurred to remove and dispose of abandoned watercraft. (Districts 2,3)
DISCUSSION
Throughout the year, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (Department)
must address vessels that are found adrift, sinking, or in danger of sinking in the
marinas and navigable waterways along our coast. Normally, these vessels are brought
to the docks or launch ramps by either the Long Beach Fire or Police Departments, and
stabilized, if possible. If the vessel sinks or is deemed to be a navigable hazard, it must
be removed and destroyed.
The Department attempts to locate the last registered owner to pay for the expenses
incurred in this effort. If a registered owner cannot be located, or refuses to pay for the
stabilization and removal, DBAW offers grant funds to reimburse public agencies for the
associated costs. The Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund (AWAF) grant requires
the City to pay for the first 10 percent of the cost for each abandoned vessel, and the
grant reimburses the City for the balance. DBAW then makes an effort to obtain
reimbursement from the registered owner, if one has been identiied.
The City has participated in this grant each year since 1999. Based on previous
experience, it is estimated that approximately $45,000 in reimbursement funding will be
received during the period of July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney J. Charles Parkin and by Budget
Management Officer David Wodynski on May 26,2005.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on June 14, 2005, in order to submit the grant application to DBAW by the June deadline.
FISCAL IMPACT
The AWAF grant offers 90 percent reimbursement of costs incurred by the City in a 12-
month period for removal and disposal of abandoned vessels. If the grant is awarded, it
is estimated that the City would be eligible for approximately $45,000 in reimbursable
costs.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
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Respectfully Submitted,
PHIL T. HESTER
DIRECTOR OF PARKS, RECREATION AND MARINE