REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Shannon Buckley, Assistant City Manager
Date:March 11, 2025
Subject:Contractor Services Agreement with Discount Hauling and Cleanup Service for On-Call Nuisance and Weed Abatement Services.
Recommendation
Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Discount Hauling and Cleanup Service for On-Call Nuisance and Weed Abatement Services in an amount not to exceed $400,000 in such final form as approved by the City Attorney; authorize the City Manager to execute change orders not exceeding a 10% contingency amount of $40,000 for uncertainties and adjustments; and waive the formal bidding process per Municipal Code Section 3.08.070(g).
Background
Discount Hauling and Cleanup Services is a locally owned and operated business that has served the citizens of Lake Elsinore since 2002. In 2008, the company began providing nuisance abatement services for the City of Lake Elsinore on a bid-for-job basis, including junk and trash removal and structural demolitions. As transient-related complaints increased in 2015, Discount Hauling played a key role in camp cleanups and removals. Recognizing the need for a dedicated contractor, the City issued an RFP for nuisance abatement services in 2018, and Discount Hauling and Cleanup Services was awarded a three-year contract.
During this contract period, the City maintained a separate agreement for weed abatement services with an out-of-town contractor. However, in 2019, midway through the weed abatement season, the contractor abruptly terminated its contract, leaving the City without a contractor for these critical services. In response, Discount Hauling and Cleanup was approached to assist on an emergency basis, and they stepped in without hesitation. Recognizing their reliability and capability, the City amended Discount Hauling and Cleanup’s contract the following year to formally include weed abatement services, which they successfully provided for the remainder of the contract.
Discount Hauling & Cleanup Services
In 2021, the City issued a new RFP for combined nuisance and weed abatement services. Three bids were received from Discount Hauling and Cleanup Services, Belfor Property Restoration, and Boulder Earthwork Inc. Discount Hauling and Cleanup Services was awarded another three- year contract based on its set pricing and location within the City to ensure quick response times.
Discussion
To protect citizens and property from conditions that are offensive, harmful to property values, or detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare, the City has established nuisance abatement procedures under Lake Elsinore Municipal Code (LEMC) Chapter 8.18. This chapter defines nuisances and outlines the process for their abatement.
If a nuisance is not addressed within the timeframe specified in a notice to abate, the City may take enforcement action as permitted by law, including abatement by City staff or contractors.
Addressing nuisances that pose health and safety risks, such as removing overgrown weeds and dead vegetation that create fire hazards, is a priority. Additionally, eliminating trash and debris is essential to maintaining a clean, safe, visually appealing community.
During the current contract period, Discount Hauling has played a vital role in maintaining community cleanliness and addressing key public concerns and safety by averaging 66 yearly nuisance cleanups. These cleanups include transient camp removals, mitigation of illegal dumping, and enforcement of illegal vendors.
On average, the company has removed 165 tons (330,000 pounds) of junk and trash annually, significantly reducing blight and environmental hazards. This level of service has ensured that public spaces remain accessible, safe, and clean for residents and businesses.
Staff identified a significant advantage in selecting the recommended contractor due to their location within the City, ensuring rapid response times—an essential factor given the urgency of emergency work. Additionally, the contractor has a well-established track record with the City, having completed substantial projects that consistently meet or exceed staff expectations in both quality and efficiency. Furthermore, an out-of-town contractor could not provide the immediate (within 30 minutes) after-hours emergency response that is often required. Their familiarity with local requirements and proven reliability further support this recommendation.
Fiscal Impact
Funds will be allocated in the FY25-26 Code Enforcement budget.
Attachments
Attachment 1- Agreement
Exhibit A - Quote
Administrative Services