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Resolution Awarding a Citywide Tree Planting Contract to Thorpe Landscapes of Wilmington LLC, for the Planting of Four-Hundred and Sixty-Four Trees in the Amount of $382,635 and Suspending Richard J. Carlson LLC, a/k/a Carlson’s Landscaping, from Participating in Future Tree Bids for Eighteen Months
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Department: |
Parks and Recreation |
Meeting Date: |
February 4, 2025 |
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Contact Name: |
Aaron Reese |
Public Hearing: |
No |
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Contact Phone: |
910-341-0078 |
Advertising Date/Advertised By: |
N/A |
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Attachments: |
Attachment #1: FY25 Citywide Tree Planting Resolution Attachment #2: Bid Submission - Carlson’s Landscaping Attachment #3: Bid Submission - Thorpe Landscapes Attachment #4: FY25 Citywide Tree Planting Bid Tab Attachment #5: Email documentation of Carlson’s Landscaping withdrawal Attachment #6: FY25 Planting Map Attachment #7: Copy of Bid Packet |
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this resolution is to award a citywide tree planting contract in the amount of $382,635 for FY25 for 464 trees to Thorpe Landscapes of Wilmington LLC.
BACKGROUND:
In spring 2024, the City solicited tree planting contract bids. Richard J. Carlson LLC, a/k/a Carlson’s Landscaping (“Carlson’s”), was the lowest bidder, but later withdrew from the process. As a consequence, tree planting efforts were delayed due to reaching the end of the planting season without a contract. The project was re-advertised, with bids accepted through December 12, 2024, for a citywide tree planting contract of 464 trees.
The City received two bids. The lowest bidder this time was also Carlson’s, who again withdrew its bid. Based on Carlson’s repetitive bid withdrawal actions, staff recommends suspending Carlson’s from bidding on City tree projects for a period of eighteen (18) months. This resolution authorizes the award of the tree planting contract to the next responsive, responsible bidder, Thorpe Landscapes of Wilmington LLC, in the amount of $382,635.
This project replaces street trees across the city, including the Market Street trees that were removed in 2024. The project includes a diverse selection of species that are proven to be urban tolerant and will contribute to the sustainable urban tree canopy. The size of trees installed is two and a half to three and a half inch (2.5”-3.5”) caliper ball and burlap canopy trees and eight-foot (8’) understory trees. Quality control will be ensured through individual tree inspection and compliance with the American Standard for Nursery Stock, ANZI Z60.1. The contract requires eighteen (18) months of maintenance following planting, including watering. The installation is expected to be completed within sixty (60) days of initiation to occur within the spring planting season.
The Urban Forestry Master Plan adopted by City Council provides direction to proactively grow and maintain public trees to create a healthy, equitable, and resilient urban forest that maximizes the environmental, quality-of-life, and climate-mitigation benefits Wilmington’s trees provide.
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BUDGET IMPACT:
The budget impact is $97,335 from the Parks and Recreation Department’s Landscaping operating budget and $285,300 from Tree Mitigation.
recommendation
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Staff recommends that a tree planting contract is awarded to Thorpe Landscapes of Wilmington LLC, the next responsive, responsible bidder in the amount of $382,635. Further, staff recommends suspending Carlson’s from participating in City tree bids for eighteen (18) months.