County moves to treat and harvest lake lily pads; vendor proposals total about $37,900

County staff reported that lily pads have spread across the county lake, including coves and the spillway, and presented treatment options discussed with vendors. Staff said one vendor recommended a two-step approach: an initial spraying followed by mechanical harvesting about a week later, and that the vendor would remove the plant material after harvest.

The presenter said he included an email from Kevin Briggs, who he identified as the person in charge of the project, and that the vendor suggestions in the packet totaled about $37,900. Commissioners discussed the possibility of seeking matching funds from the conservancy board to cover licensing and maintenance costs and emphasized the need for a long-term maintenance plan so the problem does not recur.

Officials noted administrative steps for implementation: county staff plan to do initial spraying, the harvester company would follow, and the contractor indicated a roughly two-week window for scheduling work; staff also mentioned required licensing and a 90-day waiting period for certain certifications before some treatments could begin.

Speakers said the conservancy board had raised questions about whether the material would be removed; the presenter confirmed the harvested vegetation would be taken away. Commissioners also discussed timing—likely later in the spring or summer—so that treatments occur when water movement and weather conditions are appropriate.

The presenter fielded questions about logistics and confirmed the county will coordinate scheduling with the vendor and conservancy board.