City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS TO ISSUE
A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR TREE
MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Whereas, in a letter dated July 1, 2025, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works requested legislation authorizing the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Tree Maintenance and Emergency Services; and
Department of Public Works is hereby authorized to prepare, issue, and publicly advertise a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Tree Maintenance and Emergency Services, including but not limited to
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon recognizes the vital importance of maintaining a healthy and safe urban tree canopy for the protection of public safety, the environment, and neighborhood aesthetics; and
Whereas, the City currently faces significant tree-related hazards due to aging tree stock, storm damage, and a backlog of tree maintenance requests that pose risks to residents, property, utility infrastructure, and public rights-of-way; and
Whereas, recent severe weather events have demonstrated the urgent need for a professional tree service provider capable of delivering timely emergency response and comprehensive maintenance services on a 24/7 basis; and
Whereas, the Department of Public Works seeks authorization to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified, insured contractors to perform tree maintenance and emergency response services throughout the City of Mount Vernon; and
Whereas, it is in the best interest of the City to establish a multi-year contractual relationship with one or more vendors to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and timely delivery of these essential services and to mitigate risks to public safety and municipal liability; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact:
Section 1. Authorization to Issue RFP. The Department of Public Works is hereby authorized to prepare, issue, and publicly advertise a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Tree Maintenance and Emergency Services, including but not limited to:
• 24/7 emergency response within one (1) hour of notice;
• Routine trimming and pruning;
• Removal of dead, damaged, or hazardous trees;
• Stump grinding and removal;
• Storm cleanup and post-disaster services;
• Brush chipping, log hauling, and debris disposal;
• Heavy clamshell and/or crane services;
• On-site traffic and pedestrian safety measures;
• Tree health assessments and condition reports by certified arborists; and
• Ongoing city-wide tree condition assessments and prioritization of work.
Section 2. Term of Contract. The resulting contract(s) shall be for an initial term of three (3) years, with an option to renew for one (1) additional year at the sole discretion of the City.
Section 3. Procurement Requirements. The RFP shall require all proposers to submit a detailed pricing schedule and an emergency mobilization plan. Preference shall be given to Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and local vendors consistent with the City’s procurement policies and applicable laws.
Section 4. Return for Contract Approval. Upon completion of the RFP process, the Department of Public Works shall present its recommendations for contract award(s) to the City Council for final approval.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval by the City Council.