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, 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, through its Marine Bureau, must deal with vessels that are found adrift, abandoned at our docks, 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 the Fire Department or Police Department, and then stabilized, if possible. If the vessel sinks or is deemed to be a navigable hazard, it must be removed and destroyed.
The Marine Bureau 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, the State of California, Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW), offers grant funds to reimburse public agencies for most of the costs involved in this effort. The Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund grant requires the City to initially pay 100 percent of the costs incurred for each abandoned vessel; subsequently, DBW will reimburse the City for 90 percent of those costs. DBW then makes an effort to obtain reimbursement from the registered owner, if one has been identified.
The City has participated in this grant program since 1999. Based on previous experience, it is estimated that the City will spend approximately $200,000 toward the removal and disposal of abandoned vessels during the 12-month period commencing July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009.
This matter was reviewed and the Resolution prepared by Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson on April 21, 2008, and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell reviewed this matter on April 21, 2008.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
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