Title
Update on 2019 Downtown Hanging Flower Baskets
Recommended Action
Move to receive the report on the Downtown hanging basket and watering services in 2019
Report
Issue:
Whether to authorize staff to proceed with finalization of an RFP to solicit a service provider to provide hanging basket watering services in 2019 for 73, 18” hanging flower baskets at least 6 days a week in the Downtown core
Staff Contact:
Mark Rentfrow, Downtown Liaison, Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3798
Presenter(s):
Mark Rentfrow, Downtown Liaison, Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3798
Background and Analysis:
For the past several years, the PBIA has purchased hanging flower baskets to be hung throughout the City’s downtown core. These baskets help to contribute to an inviting and vibrant retail atmosphere and are regularly cited by citizens and business owners who appreciate the PBIA’s efforts. The PBIA has previously used probation labor to water the baskets. In 2018 the PBIA changed direction and hired temporary City employees under the direction of Probation Services to provide watering services.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The downtown business community has cited hanging flower baskets in past PBIA ratepayer surveys as an amenity that they appreciate and hope to see in the future. Citizens and tourists have also remarked favorably about the program and the beauty it brings to downtown
Options:
1. Proceed with the purchase of 73 hanging baskets and hire a temporary watering employee for 2019 season
2. Re-imagine hanging flower basket program to include individual basket sponsors/waterers
3. Suspend hanging flower basket program for 2019
Financial Impact:
The PBIA has earmarked $23,000 from their annual budget to pay for flower baskets and watering services