Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Mark Enders, Watershed Program Manager
Contact Info
(830) 221-4639 - menders@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of an interlocal contract with the Edwards Aquifer Authority for program funding associated with the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan.
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BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
The City is a partner on the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan (EAHCP) that is being implemented to provide protection to endangered species in the Comal and San Marcos River and spring systems. The EAHCP is a requirement of an Incidental Take Permit that has been issued to the participating entities by the US Fish and Wildlife. Per the EAHCP and the Funding and Management Agreement (FMA) the City is required to implement a number a various habitat restoration projects in the Comal River system. On an annual basis the City develops an EAHCP Workplan and associated Funding Application (FA) that outlines the plans and costs for implementation of the habitat restoration activities for the following year. Once approved by the EAHCP Implementing Committee and Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) Board funding is guaranteed to the City. As expenses for restoration activities are incurred, the City submits invoices and work documentation to the EAA for reimbursement.
The City is currently entered into an Interlocal Contract with the EAA for EAHCP program funding. The effective Interlocal Contract has been in place since 2013 and is set to expire at the end of 2020. The Interlocal Contract being presented is to set forth EAHCP program funding guidelines and funding reimbursement procedures. The new Interlocal Contract is to be effective on January 1, 2021 and remain in effect through March 31, 2028.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
FISCAL IMPACT:
Annual estimated EAHCP program costs are included in the City’s FY 2021 budget. All expenses incurred for EAHCP activities are reimbursed on a monthly basis by the EAA.
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
None
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the interlocal contract with the Edwards Aquifer Authority for program funding associated with the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan.