Discuss the upcoming Streets Maintenance Program as it relates to sidewalk replacement and property owner cost assessments as outlined in Ordinance 2020-02.

Option 1 - Proceed with the directives of Ordinance 2020-02 and assess adjacent property owners for the costs of sidewalk replacement.

Option 2 - Suspend the ordinance clauses related to cost assessments for 120 days and proceed with the Streets Maintenance Program without participation of the adjacent property owner. 


 

The recently adopted Ordinance 2020-02 ("Sidewalk Ordinance") outlines the procedures to replace damaged sidewalks adjacent to private property. The Sidewalk Ordinance provides guidance and articulates the financial requirements of adjacent property owners. Commercial property owners are responsible for 100% of the cost to repair/replace damaged sidewalks, while residential property owners can request that the City contribute up to 50% of the cost of repair/replacement. The City contribution is contingent on funding being allocated in the annual City budget.

The Streets Section is preparing to implement the annual Overlay and Chip Seal program, which is set to begin this Summer. In addition to street repairs, staff have identified portions of adjacent sidewalks in need of repair. Pursuant to the Sidewalk Ordinance, staff is preparing to notify the estimated 250 adjacent property owners of their respective share of the cost to repair/replace the adjacent sidewalks.  However, staff also understands that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some Flagstaff residents to experience unexpected economic hardship, which may impact their ability to cover the cost of sidewalk repair/replacement.

Staff is requesting direction from the Council on how to proceed. 

 

The final Streets Maintenance Program Construction Manager at Risk award is currently scheduled for May 5, 2020 and this information is critical if adjustments are to be made.