Raking in the dough by mowing our aroyos, $192,000 worth

It looks like the city is getting ready to award 3 contracts for mowing services and cleanup of three local creeks. Apparently, the city council is getting ready to approve 3 contracts for a contractor by the name of Nick Benavides.  Let's hope Mr. Benavides does an excellent job and keeps our creek areas nice and clean. I remember not long ago seeing an abandoned sofa littering Zacate creek near the downtown area.

It is somewhat confusing that in each of the following agenda items, the term of the contract is "for a period of twelve (12) months period with three (3), one (1) year extensions".  It does not say with the possibility or option of an extension. So are these 1 year contracts or 4 year contracts?

From the upcoming City's Finance Committee meeting

8. Consideration to award contract FY13-014 to Nick Benavides, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated total amount of $63,450.00 to provide mowing and maintenance of the Zacate Creek area. This company has been deemed as providing the best value to the City. The term of the contract is for a twelve (12) month period with three (3), one (1) year extensions. Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget. (Also on the Operations Committee Agenda)

9. Consideration to award contract FY13-015 to Nick Benavides, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated total amount of $57,000.00 to provide mowing and maintenance of the Manadas North Creek area. This company has been deemed as providing the best value to the City. The term of the contract is for a twelve (12) month period with three (3), one (1) year extensions. Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget. (Also on the Operations Committee Agenda)

10. Consideration to award contract FY13-017 to Nick Benavides, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated total amount of $72,250.00 to provide mowing and maintenance of the Manadas Creek area. This company has been deemed as providing the best value to the City. The term of the contract is for a twelve (12) month period with three (3), one (1) year extensions. Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget.