TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute an agreement with Ecco Wireless USA, Inc., a California corporation, to develop and furnish wireless internet network services for customers of and visitors to the Long Beach marinas, on a subscription basis, for a term of five-years, at no cost to the City of Long Beach. (Districts 2,3)
DISCUSSION
As smart phones, tablets, video game consoles, televisions, and computers are equipped with wireless Internet (WiFi) capabilities, the demand for the availability of this service at California marinas continues to increase. Several marinas along the coast provide hot spots for their customers at no cost or through a service provider on a subscription basis. WiFi capabilities are quickly becoming a standard service provided by marina operators. In an effort to remain competitive, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) through the Purchasing Division. The purpose of the RFP was to locate a wireless Internet provider experienced in a marina environment that would provide equipment and installation at no cost to the City of Long Beach (City). Proposals were received from Ecco Wireless USA, Inc. (Ecco); TeleExpress Business Systems, Inc.; and X-Act Technology Solutions.
After reviewing the proposals, PRM and Technology Services Department staff determined that Ecco best demonstrated the knowledge and experience necessary to provide this service in a marina environment. Ecco has ten years of experience providing WiFi services in hotels, apartments, timeshares, resorts, and marinas across California, Nevada, and South Carolina.
The Marine Advisory Commission is supportive of making this service available on a subscription basis and the following reflects the major provisions of the proposed agreement:
ยท Scope: Develop and furnish wireless Internet network services for customers of and visitors to the Long Beach marinas, on a subscription basis, at no co...
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