Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/18/2016

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5. COMMITTEE BUSINESS 5.01: Recommend Landscape Improvements for Center Median in the Sweet Bay Ridge Development Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood reviewed the proposed project and plan and recommendation by the City Council to proceed with the landscape renovation plan by Great Northern Landscapes, Inc. He stated it will include honeysuckle bushes, mulching, planting soil, irrigation, and yearly maintenance. Clint Seul, 7496 161st Avenue, Sweet Bay Ridge resident, stated the neighbors were hoping to have some plants that were smaller in size so people can see children playing or crossing the street as they come around the corner. He stated the honeysuckle bushes are the residents concern because they grow so tall and large they can create a hazard on the median. Public Works Superintendent Riemer asked if they could mulch back from the curb to the tree line and then put the bushes in line with that, noting that may resolve the issue Mr. Seul and residents are concerned about. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated in the affirmative that this option can be pursued. Chairperson Riley stated he was surprised to find the cost is $14,000 to renovate this project and that it will cost roughly $600.00— $800.00 a year to maintain it. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated he believes the cost is comparable to other companies and average in pricing. He noted there is a great deal of hand work that is involved in the project, irrigation repairs and new zone controller included. Councilmember Kuzma asked why the City is the funding source is for this project and inquired about an HOA funding the cost. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated they don't have an HOA in place and the cost will be coming out of the operational budget. He stated this option is the most cost effective choice; the cost to lay black top on the entire median was roughly $32,000.00 and to remove the median was roughly $54,000 Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated the beautification of the median makes the most sense to add the esthetics instead of removing the median. He noted removing the median added concerns that it would encourage increased driving speed of drivers in that area. Mr. Seul stated the residents would like anything in that space that is low maintenance to reduce the burden on the neighborhood. Public Works Committee/ October 18, 2016 Page 2 of 6