Works delayed by presence of tortoises.
The city of Davenport’s landmark water tower will be demolished by 12 December to make way for a 190-foot monopole, but first, a couple of cold-blooded residents must be relocated.
In accordance with the National Environmental Protection Act of 1996, the city was required to do an environmental assessment of the land that will be affected by the demolition of the water tower.
City Manager Amy Arrington said two burrows were found that appear to be gopher tortoise habitats, but it is unclear whether the burrows are active. One environmentalist said at least one of the burrows looked active.
At the City Commission meeting Monday night, commissioners decided to go with Cardno Entrix, an environmental consulting company, provided that the city attorney can get more information about liability coverage.
Fees for the capture and relocation of the tortoises are $6,825.
Because the mitigation of the tortoises was not written into the contract with the construction company demolishing the tower, the city will have to cover all costs.
Gopher tortoises are considered threatened and are protected by state law.
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