Title
Approval to Surplus the City’s “Drain Dare” Stormwater Education Trailer
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve staffs’ proposal to surplus the Drain Dare trailer.
Report
Issue:
Whether to surplus the Drain Dare trailer or invest at least $15,000 to restore it.
Staff Contact:
Michelle Stevie, Public Works Environmental Services, 753.8336
Andy Haub, Public Works Water Resources Director, 753.8475
Presenter(s):
None; Consent calendar item.
Background and Analysis:
The Drain Dare stormwater educational trailer was purchased by the City with Storm and Surface Water Utility and Clean Water grant funds approximately ten years ago. It has been used extensively by the City and its regional partners for stormwater education at elementary schools and community events (see attached photo).
The trailer is built of ornamental foam and cement board. It is weathered and needs to be completely restored at an estimated cost of at least $15,000. A weather-proof storage building is also needed. Our use and need for the Drain Dare trailer has decreased in recent years. It is no longer valuable to our stormwater education programs. However, staff continues to expend resources on maintaining, storing, and coordinating it so other agencies can use it.
Instead of continuing to invest City resources, staff proposes to surplus the Drain Dare trailer and transfer ownership to the Nisqually River Council or another public entity. The Nisqually River Council is tentatively willing to fund repairs and continue to use the trailer for regional educational events. City of Olympia residents will continue to enjoy the educational benefits of the Drain Dare trailer as it travels to various community events.
Council action is needed to surplus the equipment because it was purchased for public utility purposes. (RCW 35.94.040).
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
For the past several years the Nisqually River Council and other public entities have used the Drain Dare trailer at various community events. Its regional use is expected to continue under this proposal.
Options:
1. Surplus the Drain Dare trailer. Subsequent to Council’s decision to surplus the trailer, staff will work to transfer its ownership to another agency so it can be restored and available for use.
2. Invest at least $15,000 dollars to restore the trailer as well as acquire enclosed storage. The City would continue to maintain, store, and coordinate the trailer so other agencies could use it.
Financial Impact:
None at this time.
Attachment:
Attachment 1: Picture of Drain Dare trailer