Item #04
Date: September 17, 2024
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Jason Zumalt, Public Works Manager
Vincenzo S. Corazza, Public Works Director
Jim Schaad, City Manager
Subject: Parks Division Flail Mower Purchase Utilizing ARPA Funds Recommendation:
Pass a Motion to 1) authorize the purchase of a Flail Mower for the Parks Division of Public Works, and 2) authorize the Finance Director to make a supplemental appropriation not to exceed $14,000 to 10-160- 5401 (Vehicles & Heavy Equipment).
Rationale for Recommendation:
The Parks Division of the Public Works Department is looking to purchase a new flail mower to enhance the maintenance of City parks abandoned sewer pond areas, and open spaces across the City. This mower will also help in maintaining fire breaks. Currently, mowing Riverfront Park requires the use of two mowers, two Publics Works staff, and a minimum of two days to finish. Our existing flail mower has been red tagged, deemed unsafe, and is beyond repair. The new flail mower will replace this outdated and nonfunctional unit.
Background:
In 1989, the Public Works Parks Division purchased the current flail mower to maintain Riverfront Park.
The Fire Department also uses the flail mower to maintain areas after masticating to keep grasses under control and reduce fire risk. Our current unit has not been operational since last year and has been out of service since August 2023.
Discussion & Analysis:
There are four full time equivalent employees assigned to the Parks Division of Public Works responsible for maintenance of:
• Four community parks: Large parks designed for organized activities, sports, or large group functions.
• Three passive parks: Small, landscaped parcels that serve as green space. • Seven neighborhood parks: Located throughout residential neighborhoods that cater to those neighborhoods by providing areas for outdoor enjoyment.
Despite ongoing efforts, staff have consistently faced challenges with mowing these extensive areas, struggling to keep up with the demands. Acquiring a new flail mower would greatly enhance efficiency Item #04
and reduce the time required for mowing Riverfront Park and the sewer ponds, allowing staff to focus more effectively on other parks and projects.
Typically, flail mowers have a lifespan between six to ten years and, if maintained and inspected properly, should not need to be replaced for at least ten years. We have received three quotes as attached with N&S Tractor Yuba City offering the lowest price at $13,964.25.
Fiscal Analysis:
There is a fiscal impact of up to $14,000 for the purchase of a new flail mower. Staff is requesting a supplemental appropriation not to exceed $14,000 to 10-160-5401 (Vehicles & Heavy Equipment) utilizing remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.
Attachments:
1) Beeler Tractor Quote
2) John Deere Quote
3) N&S Tractor Yuba City Quote