SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve purchase order to Aquatic Control Group of Miami, FL, for Alligator Creek Tree Removal in the not-to-exceed amount of $250,000.00, on a unit-price basis, pursuant to Invitation to Bid (ITB) 22-25 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
On March 26, 2025, Invitation to Bid (ITB) 22-25 was publicly posted, seeking bids for the removal of fallen trees along and within Alligator Creek-generally from Kapok Park eastward to the western edge of the McMullen Booth Road bridge.
Aquatic Control Group of Miami, FL submitted the lowest overall bid among the seven contractors that responded. While they were not the lowest in every individual category, they were the most economical overall, offering the lowest pricing in the majority of categories. Staff reviewed their bid and contacted references, all of whom spoke highly of the company and indicated they would hire them again without hesitation.
Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, flooding was observed along portions of Alligator Creek. Staff identified several downed trees likely contributing to the issue; however, limited access to the creek prevented a full visual assessment. Drone inspections were secured to gather additional data on fallen trees along the creek between Kapok Park and the outfall. Additionally, dense vegetation and overhead obstructions limited drone visibility.
City crews have cleared accessible downed trees and coordinated Pinellas County to address debris on their property. However, the total number and size of fallen trees along the creek remain uncertain.
Given these limitations, staff developed a unit price not-to-exceed bid to proceed with necessary clearing while maintaining the ability to monitor costs and prioritize flow restoration. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has confirmed that this tree clearing, and removal qualifies as “Emergency Work” under Executive Order 24-215.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
ENST180006-CONS-CNSTRC $250,000.00
Funds are available in Capital Improvement Project 319-ENST180006, Alligator Creek, to fund this work.
This is funded by the Stormwater Utility Enterprise fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
