191292

The City of Portland ordains:

Section 1.  The Council finds:

1. Since 1972, Portland Water Bureau (PWB) has had ongoing agreements with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for the collection of streamflow and water quality data in the Bull Run Watershed. The monitoring includes the measurement and recording of streamflow rates, reservoir levels, and selected water quality variables.
    
2. The monitoring data are used to evaluate water quantity and quality in the Bull Run Watershed and compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requirements for the Bull Run dams.
    
3. Monitoring data are also required for compliance with streamflow and temperature provisions of the Habitat Conservation Plan, which is the City’s approved method of complying with the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act.
    
4. The USGS is nationally recognized as the preeminent agency that monitors streamflow and water quality information, and its data are considered the best available for the City’s needs. Data from the USGS is accepted by regulatory agencies.
    
5. PWB’s current agreement with USGS expires September 30, 2023. The new five-year Joint Funding Agreement (Agreement) will be effective October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2028.
    
6. The cost for streamflow and water quality monitoring will be shared between the PWB, the USGS, and the Federal Priority Streamgage Fund.
    
7. The total cost of the streamflow and water quality monitoring will not exceed $1,842,157. PWB’s contribution for the five-year term of the Agreement will be $1,123,805. The USGS will contribute $668,330 and the Federal Priority Streamgage Fund will contribute $50,022.   
    
8. PWB has requested funding of $168,571 in the FY 2023-24 budget.  Additional funds will also be requested in FY 2024-25 through 2028-29 budgets.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Council directs:

1. That the Portland Water Bureau Director is authorized to execute on behalf of the City a Joint Funding Agreement with the USGS, generally in accordance with the Agreement attached as Exhibit A.
2. That the Mayor and Auditor are hereby authorized to draw and deliver checks chargeable to the Water Fund when demand is presented and approved by the proper authorities.
3. That the Portland Water Bureau Director is authorized to execute amendments to the Joint Funding Agreement, including amendments increasing the total compensation up to 25% of the Agreement amount.