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Cotati council approves Delano Park pathway replacement, opts for asphalt
Summary
Cotati authorized a contract with PJM Landscaping to remove and replace the 560‑foot Delano Park pathway, choosing asphalt over decomposed granite after public comments about flooding and durability. Council unanimously approved a budget amendment and the agreement.
The Cotati City Council on Oct. 28 unanimously approved a resolution to remove and replace the existing pathway through Delano Park, awarding a minor construction agreement to PJM Landscaping.
Public works director Craig Scott told the council the project covers “about 560 feet that connects Page Street to Valparaiso” and that staff recommended asphalt as the primary option because the park’s low, wet soils make some natural surfaces vulnerable to erosion. Scott said staff discussed an alternative — decomposed granite with a binder (used elsewhere in town) — but recommended asphalt now to get the path repaired before winter.
Several Zoom commenters, including Jenny Blaker, urged the council to reconsider asphalt and to seek comparisons or a broader bidding process; Blaker said she had submitted a detailed email and raised concerns about long‑term cracking and root heave on binder products. Director Scott acknowledged the public’s concern and said the city received only one proposal for the project and that California public contracting rules allow negotiated contracts for minor projects under the $75,000 threshold.
Council members cited safety and durability as deciding factors. Council Member Harvey, noting the path floods in winter, said the existing asphalt has lasted decades despite tree roots; Sparks and Vice Mayor Lemus also voiced urgency to fix a hazardous surface this season. The motion to authorize the city manager to execute the agreement with PJM Landscaping and amend the budget carried unanimously.
The approved work will widen the existing path from approximately 4 feet to 5 feet. The contract is a minor construction agreement that typically includes a one‑year warranty on workmanship; the packet did not specify a contract number or exact final dollar amount.
