TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute an agreement and all related documents with Time Warner Cable to provide high-speed data communications services for the Long Beach Public Library in an amount not to exceed $50,000 in total expenditures annually for three years. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) desires to provide a next generation intelligent high-speed data network system between its Main Library and its branch libraries. The intent is to enhance the patron and staff computing experience at all sites and to increase bandwidth to support future needs and activities.
To this end, the LBPL plans to seek funding for this initiative through the Schools and Libraries Division (SLD) of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," starting with the upcoming program funding year (July 1, 2012 - June 30, 2013). E-Rate is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. The E-Rate discount is based on the Free/Reduced Lunch eligibility of the surrounding school district. Approximately 69 percent of Long Beach Unified School District students are eligible for Free/Reduced Lunch under the National School Lunch Program. This translates to an E-Rate discount of up to 80 percent based on the SLD Discount matrix.
Per E-Rate program requirements, a Request for Proposals (RFP) for E-Rate-eligible products and services was issued in October 2011 to secure the most favorable pricing. The RFP was advertised on the City website, notifying 1,107 potential businesses. Of those, 68 downloaded the RFP via the electronic bid system. The RFP document was made available from the Purchasing Division, located on the seventh floor of City Hall, and the Division's website at www.longbeach.gov/purchasing <...
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