SUBJECT: Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Between the County of Merced and the City of Merced for Vegetation Maintenance of Bear Creek Within Merced City Limits from Crocker Dam to Campus Parkway REPORT IN BRIEF The County of Merced (County), on behalf of the Merced Stream Group, is undertaking vegetation maintenance activities along Bear Creek. Portions of Bear Creek located between Crocker Dam and Campus Parkway are within the City of Merced and have historically been maintained by the City. The proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) provides an opportunity for the City to participate in the County's vegetation maintenance project rather than undertaking a separate, stand-alone project. By coordinating the work with the County's larger project, the City can benefit from economies of scale, an expedited schedule, and potentially reduced project costs. Under the proposed MOU, the County will perform the vegetation maintenance work, including environmental assessments and consulting services, for the portions of Bear Creek within the City limits. The City will reimburse the County for 50 percent of the actual project costs, not to exceed the estimated amount of $250,000, unless additional costs are approved in writing by the City. Staff recommends approval of the MOU because coordinating the City's Bear Creek vegetation maintenance activities with the County's existing project provides an opportunity to achieve economies of scale, reduce duplication of effort, and expedite completion of vegetation maintenance within the City limits. RECOMMENDATION City Council - Adopt a motion: A. Approving the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the County of Merced and the City of Merced for vegetation maintenance and associated environmental services of Bear Creek within the City limits from Crocker Dam to Campus Parkway; and B. Authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to execute the MOU and any documents necessary to implement the agreement.

Committee

City Council/Public Finance and Economic Development Authority/Parking Authority

Requested by

Public Works

Introduced

September 3, 2026

On agenda

October 5, 2026

Passed

October 5, 2026

Where it was heard

City Council/Public Finance and Economic Development Authority/Parking Authority Oct 5, 2026 approved Pass

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