1995 ADJ MIN AUG 08 - Laserfiche WebLink

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assessments are different based on the improvements and the number of parcels. Councilmember Cook asked how many contractors are on board. Director Vega stated only one. Motion by Councilmember Bennett, seconded by Mayor Fulp, to approve the Landscape Maintenance District for the five assessment districts and to set the rate the same as last year with the intent to contract the services. Mayor Fulp questioned the total costs. Director Vega stated the cost is $327,567. Director Vega stated approving the same rate may not be sufficient to fund the existing level of services because there are additional services. Councilmember Bennett stated over 1700 parcels are in her district; residents have indicated they do not want to pay more to have the service provided by City staff. Councilmember Bennett requested the City continue to contract the service out at a lower cost. Councilmember Hutton stated the City does not have a bid at a lower rate at this time. Councilmember Bennett asked if the City is providing the service. Councilmember Hutton stated no. Mayor Fulp requested staff to come back with cost estimates. Director Vega stated there is an urgency to pass a budget this evening and then staff can work within the budget. Mr. McGuirre, Muni Financial Services, gave the Council an overview of the estimated budget. Director Vega distributed an alternate budget and staff can bring back the option of contracting versus the City providing the services. Mr. McGuire, MFS, recommended the Council approve the engineer's report allowing the opportunity to bring the maintenance in-house if the Council wishes. Councilmember Hutton asked the consultant that even though there is an initial expense to have the maintenance done in house, over the years would the cost be lower. Mr. McGuire stated yes, if managed properly. Mr. McGuire stated most agencies contract out but this is not necessarily appropriate for the City of Colton. Councilmember Hutton stated lawnmowers have already been purchased. City Manager Martinez confirmed; riding and large mowers have been purchased. Councilmember Beltran stated those mowers were to be used for the parks. Councilmember Bennett amended her motion to approve the figures as listed in table 3 on the hand-out concerning hiring contractors. Mayor Fulp withdrew his second to the motion. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Sanders. Councilmember Sandoval asked if there is a shortfall of taxes, how does the City cover the shortfall. City Manager Martinez stated the general fund would be used. Mr. McGuire suggested the City take over part of the maintenance and phase into taking over all of the maintenance duties. Councilmember Sandoval stated it would be prudent to split the services to ensure reserves and allow the City to stabilize the rates. Councilmember Sandoval stated the motion on the table now does not allow the rates to stabilize. Mr. McGuire stated it would be prudent to approve the assessment as if going in-house to ensure that costs are covered. Councilmember Bennett stated contractors are hungry and it could cost significantly less. Councilmember Bennett stated past years have shown that by contracting out the 4 Abu 0 8 1995