TITLE
The Mayor and City Council shall consider approving an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of Maricopa and the Arizona Game and Fish Commission for the purpose of conducting a Community Fishing Program and the stocking of fish at Pacana Park Pond and Copper Sky Lake. Discussion and Action.
AGENDA ITEM DESCRIPTION
In December of 2013, the City of Maricopa entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Arizona Game and Fish Commission to conduct a Community Fishing Program. The IGA was renewed in May, 2015 for a four-year term, and again in June, 2019, for a five-year term, which expired on June 30, 2024.
Under this new IGA, the Arizona Game and Fish Department shall:
• Inform the public of the purpose and intent of the Community Fishing Program
• Make recommendations to the Commission pertaining to license requirements and bag and possession limits specific to the Community Fishing waters
• Issue fishing licenses and other applicable licenses to individuals and license dealers in the local area and statewide, as well as from Department offices and online
Additionally, the Department shall stock Pacana Park Pond and Copper Sky Lake with rainbow trout from December to February, and channel catfish in April, May, and from mid-September to November. Fish stocking will cease from approximately June through mid-September due to heat stress factors. Sunfish and other approved fish species may be stocked as necessary to establish or augment fish populations, to maintain a balanced and healthy fishery, to improve angler catch rates, and/or to provide a unique species for anglers.
The Department shall monitor basic water quality and biological indicators as needed to determine if lake conditions are suitable for fish stockings, and shall provide water quality information to park managers. Any public health or safety concerns found by the Department shall be reported to the appropriate City of park management staff.
This new five-year IGA includes an increase in partnership fees of approximately 49% for year one and subsequent increases of 3% per year for years two through five. Funding for the first year, in an amount not to exceed $16,817, will be drawn from GEN FUND-PARK MAINT 19, TECHNICAL (10055132-53340).
PRESENTER
This item will be presented by Keith Brown, Public Works Director.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Mayor and City Council approve IGA 24-10 between the City of Maricopa and the Arizona Game and Fish Commission for the Community Fishing Program.