Recommend approval to authorize the City Manager to execute the renewal of an annual contract with NaturChem, Inc. for roadside, canal, and aquatic vegetation maintenance in the estimated amount of $132,000. This maintenance will be used by the Greenscapes Division to provide vegetation maintenance by means of chemical applications to City of Savannah’s roadsides (58 miles), canals (36 miles) and waterways (8 miles).  The chemicals used must comply with OSHA, EPA, State Department of Agriculture and State Department of Transportation regulations as stated in the contract.  The purpose is to eliminate and/or slow down the growth of vegetation within the canals, storm drains and ditches opening up the waterways through the City.  In 2018, Greenscapes became responsible for maintaining vegetation on these areas which the City’s Stormwater Department previously managed in-house.  The City of Savannah’s Greenscapes Division does not have the staff, nor the equipment to adequately maintain the vegetation within these areas in house as set forth in the maintenance standards set forth in Strategic Goal #3.2 – City Owned Properties.

The DBE goal for this event was 18%.  The recommended bidder submitted DBE participation at the sub-contractor level in the amount of 18%.

This is the first of three renewal options available.  The contract term shall be January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020.

Approval