TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute all documents, including any necessary amendments thereto, to enter into agreements with the United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, to continue providing wildlife biologist services at the Long Beach Airport in an amount not to exceed $414,773, for a five-year period; and
Increase appropriations by $4,264 in the Airport Fund Group in the Airport Department. (Districts 4,5)
DISCUSSION
The United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (USDAWS) requires all 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, Contract No. 35449, will terminate on December 31, 2022.
The USDAWS has wildlife biologists on staff that perform wildlife management services at 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 calls for the USDAWS to provide the Airport the services of a qualified Wildlife Biologist on a part-time basis who will provide services such as:
• Technical assistance regarding 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, and bird strike notification procedures, provide data, and assist in preparation of the Airport’s 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.
• Respond to wildlife strike incidents during working hours, provide removal services and document the strike report in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Richard Anthony on October 19, 2022 and by Budget Operations and Development Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on October 21, 2022.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action on this matter is requested on November 15, 2022, to minimize a lapse in services.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total cost of the contract for the five-year period is $414,773. An appropriation increase of $4,264 is requested in the Airport Fund Group in the Airport Department for the increased cost of services in the initial year. Appropriation increases for subsequent years will be requested through the annual budget development process. 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 this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
CYNTHIA GUIDRY
DIRECTOR, LONG BEACH AIRPORT
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER