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Contractor flags Indiana Ave mowing increase; board approves $25,000 planting contract and repairs
Summary
During public comment Amy Ficus of Mofield Property Services said Indiana Avenue reconstruction increased turf and will raise mowing costs by about $60/week; the board approved a $25,000 perennials contract, Mofield maintenance claims and payments for bench and receptacle work funded in part by a UEA grant.
Contractor Amy Ficus of Mofield Property Services told the La Porte City bid board on July 13 that the Indiana Avenue reconstruction expanded grassy areas and will raise her mowing price by about $60 per week, and she asked the board to accept an additional charge proposal for approval.
"They added a whole bunch of bridal that needs to be mowed... it's gonna raise it $60 a week," Ficus said during public comment, asking the board to send the additional-amount request to Jamie or to Jamie and Jamie to pursue an email vote if needed.
Jamie, the board’s maintenance staff, reported before-and-after photos of bench and trash-receptacle work on Lincoln Way, saying a UEA grant covered the work. Jamie and the presenter noted volunteers were prepared to stain and repair benches, but UEA funding allowed paid work this time. The presenter introduced a Sherwin-Williams materials invoice for $256.70 tied to that work.
The board approved three claims: Perennials Galore for $25,000 to plant and maintain planters, Mofield Property Services for sidewalk maintenance and watering (about $2,707.50), and Sherwin-Williams for supplies ($256.70). Presenter (S4) confirmed the perennials line covers planting, maintenance and related work and that the board does not expect an additional soil bill at year end.
Public commenter John Maresca raised worker-safety concerns, saying many crews do not wear eye or ear protection and pressing the board to ensure safe practices. Ficus responded that her crew wears high-visibility shirts, hearing protection and typically eye protection, and that she would ensure crews use safety glasses rather than sunglasses.
The board discussed whether the contractor used stain or paint on the benches; Jamie and Ficus said the product was a 'super deck' paint/stain matched to existing slats. Members complimented the finished work and thanked Amy and the UEA for funding and coordination.
The board approved the claims by voice vote and then continued budget discussion related to planters and watering costs.
