Report Prepared by: Michael Wegley, Interim City Engineer
Title
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution to Enter into a Funding Agreement with the State of California Department of Water Resources to Receive Funds in the Amount not to Exceed $6,000,000 for the Bear Creek Restoration Project (CP240058)
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting a Resolution to enter into a Funding Agreement with the State of California Department of Water Resources to receive funds in the amount not to exceed $6,000,000 for the Bear Creek Restoration Project and authorizing the City Manager to execute the agreement on behalf of the City of Merced.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2024-18, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the State of California Department of Water Resources to receive funds for the Bear Creek Restoration Project; and,
B. Accepting and increasing the revenue budget in Fund 6000 - Wastewater in the amount of $6,000,000, and appropriating the same to Fund 6000 - Wastewater in Project CP240058 Bear Creek Restoration; and,
C. Approving the use of pooled cash to cover the appropriation until City receives reimbursement funds; and,
D. Authorizing the Finance Officer to make the necessary budget adjustments; and,
E. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2023-24 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
In October 2022, the City of Merced announced the launch of the Bear Creek Restoration Project, with $6,000,000 in funding secured by Assembly Member Adam Gray, to restore a 6-mile-long portion of Bear Creek from McKee Road to 16th Street. The project scope includes the removal of trash, pollution, and invasive plant overgrowth; introduction of native plant species for habitat restoration; restoration of the creek bed to improve water quality; and restoration of the embankments and levees to enhance public safety.
The project will include reports to evaluate the Creek’s current conditions and identify areas where mitigation and restoration are needed, a vegetation survey to identify invasive species locations, and a topographical survey to identify areas of embankment that may need to be repaired to enhance public safety.
Based on data collected and the procurement of State and Federal environmental permits, a habitat restoration design will be developed to support multi-season vegetation and restoration plans. Specialized construction and vegetation teams will begin work to abate invasive species and restore the Creek. Thus, creating a healthy riparian area to protect the terrestrial wildlife and aquatic habitats. Additionally, the team will implement an embankment repair program. Lastly, crews will focus on improving water quality and the overall aesthetic beauty of the Creek.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
Funding will be provided by the State of California Department of Water Resources board for $6,000,000, requiring increasing revenue and appropriation in Fund 6000 Wastewater Operating Fund, Storm Drain Division. No match is required.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Funding Agreement
2. Resolution 2024-18
3. Location Map