Council approves short-term, on-call animal-control contract with Willdan after no competing bids

The Garden Grove City Council approved a not-to-exceed $245,000 contract with Willdan Engineering for on-call animal-control officer services after staff reported Willdan was the only firm to respond to the city’s request for proposals.

Staff outlined two cost drivers used to set the contract amount: ($1) the estimated annual cost to replace a full-time animal-control officer if staffing shortages arise (about $175,000) and ($2) the cost to meet scheduling demands for 24/7 field operations, particularly weekend and night on-call shifts (about $70,000). Together those figures yielded the proposed not-to-exceed amount of $245,000, staff said.

Contract structure and safeguards The staff memo attached to the item described the initial contract term as March 1, 2025, through June 30, 2025, with the city retaining the option to exercise up to four additional fiscal‑year option periods on a year‑by‑year basis. Staff said the contract is revocable by the city without cause and that the consultant will be compensated only for work performed; contractors must present evidence supporting billed work.

Why it mattered Councilmembers said they supported the item because animal-control needs spike at times such as holidays (fireworks-related escapes noted for July 4th) and because maintaining 24/7 coverage is difficult when staffing shortages occur. Councilmembers emphasized the agreement is a stopgap and will return to council for renewal or termination based on performance.

Outcome The council voted 7–0 to approve the not-to-exceed contract for on-call animal-control officer services with Willdan Engineering. Staff will monitor use and return for annual option decisions per the contract terms.

Ending Councilmembers asked for performance reporting if the city exercises option years and for continued efforts to recruit and retain full-time animal-control staff.