Agenda - 08-29-2005-2b - Laserfiche WebLink

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5 • Whether or not to plant Bermuda or Fescue grass on the playing fields -Staff does not anticipate as high a level of play pressure on these fields, as would be the case in other areas of the County or at a complex. The development and operational costs of Bermuda fields are generally higher than those for fescue/ryegrass fields, but they are difficult to pin down to specific numbers due to fluctuating variables. Bermuda Grass is dormant in the winter, generally between the months of November and March, when it appears brown, Excessive play and wear and tear during this time permanently damages the turf. During the summer season, the turf can recover from wear and tear as it is actively growing. Most soccer clubs and organizations are not active during the summer months.. Fescue and Rye Grass are cool season grasses. They are active in the winter, dormant in the summer months, and thus more adapted to recovery from wear and tear, which occurs during the winter or early spring, when many soccer organizations continue to play or start their season. It is likely that these Fields could be opened earlier each spring than most f elds in the area, The fields would appear brown in the summer the way Bermuda grass appears November through March. For these reasons, staff would recommend building the fields with afescue/rye grass blend as opposed to Bermuda grass, thereby saving up to $2000 in annual operating costs and $1C-18,000 in start-up capital,. A reel irigation system instead of more costly underground irrigation would be proposed as well. Whether or not to contract for selected O & M functions at the Park -Staff has attempted to obtain estimated pricing for defined elements of pazk operations from several independent contractors for comparison purposes with costs associated with internal park operations. Three companies responded to inquiries for price estimates. Their responses were highly varied, as was their apparent capability to take on this work.. Averaging the estimates provided by the three companies provides a price, which does not differ substantially from in-house operating costs, although a savings of $12,300 in start up capital equipment could be realized. Staff recommends retaining O & M functions as an in-house operation as testament to customer service and staff pride in public service and ownership. Several functions are assumed to be "givens" for contract management in that it may not he realistic for Orange County to take on the staff, training, and specialized equipment necessary for certain work. Included in this category would be: specialized tree care (crown cleaning, removal as needed), plumbing, electric service to the sports lighting, asphalt, fencing, etc.