TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager to execute a contract with Carmenita Truck Center for the purchase of three Altec LRV57RM aerial trucks per quote dated December 27, 2007, on the same terms and conditions afforded to the County of Ventura, California, Bid No. 5384, in an amount not to exceed $657,458 including tax, plus a 10 percent contingency for additional equipment if necessary and if funds are available. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for the purchase of three Altec LRV57RM aerial trucks for the Department of Public Works, Street Maintenance, Street Tree Division.
The Department of Public Works currently utilizes four large aerial trucks and four smaller aerial trucks, staffed by 27 employees, for the performance of tree maintenance and removal Citywide. Of the 100,000 trees that make up the City's Urban Forest, 16,000 to 20,000 per year are trimmed by outside contractors through an organized grid system that provides economies of scale and a more cost-effective service. City crews address public service requests for the remainder of the trees and respond to emergency and storm-related events Citywide, including City parks, a service that does not allow for cost effective outsourcing. City crews are available 24 hours per day, seven days a week, responding to an average of 8,000 requests per year, providing specialized and responsive services to the community.
The three trucks to be replaced range in age from 16-22 years with a scheduled life expectancy of 15 years. One truck is currently out of service due to the need for extensive repairs, including refurbishment of the aerial assembly, which alone is estimated to cost $100,000. Annual maintenance expenses for the other trucks have nearly doubled from 2006 to 2007, increasing on average from $9,700 to $18,300. The replacement of these trucks was previously deferred as staff researched various ...
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