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A Resolution Approving the Independent Contractor Agreement with Winkler Services LLC for Parkway Tree Pruning Services in 2026 in an Amount not to exceed $60,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution
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Introduction
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The Public Works Department is responsible for pruning parkway trees. To assist in this effort, a contractor is utilized. Winkler Services LLC was the low bidder when this work was recently bid. It is proposed to award them this work for Parkway Tree Pruning Services in 2026.
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Recommended Action
Adopt the resolution.
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action(s):
• The Village Board approved the renewal of the independent contractor agreement for this work on December 9, 2025 (RES-25-334).
• The Village Board approved funding the program as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget on December 9, 2025 (ORD-25-220).
• The Village Board approved the renewal of the independent contractor agreement for this work on January 14, 2025 (RES 25-103).
Background
The Village has over 18,000 public trees on parkways and in other public spaces. The Village has utilized contractors to help prune a portion of these trees annually. The Village maintains a four-year pruning cycle where one-fourth of all Village-owned trees are pruned each year by a contractor. All trees within a specified geographical area are pruned in a single season.
When the pruning contract was rebid in June 2026, only one company submitted a bid. Historically, it has been difficult for a single contractor to prune all the assigned trees in a given year. A second contract went out to bid in July 2026 to select a second pruning contractor. Winker Services LLC was the lowest bidder for this work.
The bids for the 2027 pruning work were higher than expected. To help manage costs for 2027, staff recommend Winker Services LLC begin some of this work in 2026. This work will be funded by reducing several existing purchase orders where all allocated funds are not anticipated to be spent.
In 2026, the contracted pruning work will include all parkway trees between Chicago Ave and North Blvd and east of N Lombard Ave. Winker Services LLC was the low responsive bidder for this work. They are a quality contractor with good references from other communities where they do this work.
Timing Considerations
Adoption of the Resolution at this time will allow for the delivery of contract services on a suitable schedule.
Financial Impact
The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, General Fund, External Support Account no. 1001-43800-101-530667 provides a total of $415,000.00 for parkway tree pruning. The contract will also use unspent funds in this account that will be released from existing purchase orders or that are unencumbered.
Operations Impact
There is no operating impact associated with this item. The item aligns with the department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
There is no DEI impact associated with this item.
Community Input
There has been no community input given in relation to this item.
Staff Recommendation
Approve the Resolution.
Advantages:
• This proposed resolution establishes a new Independent Contractor Agreement for core parkway tree pruning services.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages to this recommendation.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Board can table the item for additional information or discussion.
Advantages:
• The Board would be provided with the requested information.
Disadvantages:
• Elm and oak trees need to be pruned while dormant due to disease concerns. This work may be delayed and occur outside of the recommended window, increasing the likelihood of infection.
• Funds available for this work in 2026 would not be used, and the expense would be deferred to the 2027 budget.
Anticipated Future Actions
It is anticipated that the Public Works Department will request the Village Board approve contracts for parkway tree pruning services in December for work to be completed during Fiscal Year 2027.
Prepared By: Rob Sproule, Public Works Director
Reviewed By: Jack Malec, Assistant to the Village Manager
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution
2. Independent Contractor Agreement
3. Supporting Contract Documents