The proposed bill seeks approval from the Council of the District of Columbia for a contract with Excel Tree Experts Co. Inc. for tree pruning services, with a total not-to-exceed amount of $1,583,345. The contract, which will run from December 20, 2024, to December 19, 2025, was awarded after a competitive bidding process and includes a minimum base amount of $4,726. Excel Tree Experts, with over 40 years of experience in tree care services, is responsible for all management, supervision, and necessary resources to perform the services throughout the District. The bill also incorporates the Nonprofit Fair Compensation Act of 2020, ensuring that nonprofit organizations can include indirect costs in their service rates, and mandates that contractors adhere to safety standards and best management practices for tree care.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the hiring of District residents, requiring that at least 51% of new employees for contracts valued at $300,000 or more must be District residents. It replaces previous language related to the First Source Employment Agreement with updated requirements, including penalties for non-compliance. The bill also outlines comprehensive insurance requirements for contractors, ensuring that the Government of the District of Columbia is included as an additional insured. Significant changes include the deletion of existing clauses related to disputes and non-discrimination, which are replaced with updated language that clarifies claims processes and expands the non-discrimination clause to cover a broader range of protected categories. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance urban forestry management while ensuring equitable treatment in contracting and compliance with labor standards.