Title
Resolution to Accept a Bequested Gift of $116,739.62 from the Estate of James Robert Packard and Appropriate $116,739.62 (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and consideration is a resolution to accept and appropriate a $116,739.62 bequested gift from the Estate of the late James Robert Packard.
The last will and testament of James Robert Packard included a bequest that 50 percent of the remainder of his estate be given to the City of Ann Arbor to be used solely for tree maintenance. Mr. Packard’s estate has been settled, and pursuant to his will the City is to be given $116,739.62 to be used solely for tree maintenance.
Public Works staff will utilize this gift to increase the budget of the routine street tree pruning program. Trees pruned on a routine basis develop proper form and structure leading to a variety of benefits. These benefits include a reduction in storm related tree damage, better clearance for sidewalks and traffic, improved sight lines for signage and an overall healthier tree canopy.
The estate’s attorney has tendered the gift and has requested that the City sign documentation acknowledging receipt and acceptance. Staff requests approval of this resolution to comply with the City’s gift acceptance policy and to appropriate these funds for tree maintenance in compliance with the will of James Robert Packard.
Budget/Fiscal Impact: Funds from this gift will be used to increase the routine tree pruning program in the approved FY25 Stormwater Fund Operations and Maintenance Budget.
Staff
Prepared by: Paul Matthews, Public Works Manager
Reviewed by: Jordan Roberts, Public Services Area Administrator
Approved by: Milton Dohoney Jr., City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The Estate of James Robert Packard gifted the city $116,739.62 to be used solely for tree maintenance;
Whereas, Public Works will utilize this gift to increase the budget of the routine street tree pruning program; and
Whereas, Trees pruned on a routine basis develop proper form and structure leading to a variety of benefits,
RESOLVED, That the City Council accept a gift of $116,739.62 from the Estate of James Robert Packard and appropriate $116,739.62 to the FY25 Stormwater Fund Operations and Maintenance Budget increasing revenues and expenditures;
RESOLVED, That funding be available without regard to fiscal year; and
RESOLVED, That the City Administrator is authorized to take all appropriate action to implement this resolution, including signing any documentation required by James Robert Packard’s estate.