AGENDA MEMO

City Council

March 15, 2010

 

Issue Statement

Consideration of a motion to implement a cost schedule for delivery of wood chips to residents, businesses, and taxing districts in the amount of $35 for a half load and $55 for a full load.       BACKUP

 

Background/History

At the February 23, 2010, budget meeting the Council discussed establishing a fee for delivering wood chips to residents. Currently the Municipal Services Department delivers wood chips to residents, businesses and local taxing districts at no charge. The Council’s interest in charging a fee is to recoup certain costs that are associated with the program. The Administrative/Finance Committee reviewed the attached sheet showing the expenses associated with the program. The consensus was to re-coop the amount of money the City anticipates paying for double grinding the brush. That amount is estimated at $8000.

 

Staff estimates that an average of 180 various loads have been delivered during the last two years of which approximately 90 have been full loads. Therefore, based on delivering 180 loads and recouping our double grinding expense of  $8,000 the fee would be as follows:

 

90 half loads at $35 per delivery equals revenue of---------------------- $3,150 

90 full  loads at $55 per delivery equals revenue of---------------------- $4,950 

Total Revenue-------------------------------------------------------------- $8,100

 

As a comparison, local suppliers delivered charge would be approximately $158.00 to $182.00 for a half load and $286.00 to $334.00 for a full load. There would still be no charge for those who pick up the wood chips from the public services facility.

 

Staff Recommendation

 

The Administrative/Finance Committee recommends the City charge $35 for a half load delivery and $55 fro a full load delivery. The staff would mail out the invoices to residents requesting the delivery.

 

Alternate Consideration

Continue program at no charge

Continue program at different service fee

 

Decision Mode

This item will be placed on the March 15, 2010 City Council meeting for formal consideration.