TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager, or designee, to execute a contract, and any necessary documents, with Westnet, Inc., of Huntington Beach, CA, for the purchase of a “First-In Fire Station Alerting System” for the new Fire Station 20, in an amount not to exceed $ 152,779, for a three-year period. (District 2)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested to enter into a contract with Westnet, Inc. (Westnet), for the purchase of a fire station alerting system for the new Fire Station 20.
The Port of Long Beach began construction on the new Fire Station 20 in March 2021. The Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) is responsible for the cost of materials and installation of the Westnet alerting system. The system alerts Fire personnel to respond to emergencies with an audible and visual alarm, and 911 dispatch information. Westnet is a sole source inventor, manufacturer, and provider of the First-In Fire Station Alerting System and is used throughout all LBFD stations. Westnet does not license third parties to manufacture, alter, or make additions to the equipment design, and holds numerous trademarks and service marks for various components of the alerting system. Westnet is the only vendor capable and authorized to service and maintain the alerting system.
City Charter Section 1801 requires that contracts for City purchases be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder after a competitive bid process but allows for awards without a competitive bid process if accompanied by a Resolution adopted by the City Council.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Sarah H. Green on March 26, 2021, Business Services Bureau Manager Tara Mortensen on March 25, 2021, and by Budget Management Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on March 31, 2021.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on April 20, 2021, to allow for the timely purchase and installation of the Westnet alerting system.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total contract will not exceed an amount of $152,779 through progress payments over the three-year contract period. Appropriation for this recommendation is included in the Second Citywide Budget Adjustment, which is also scheduled to go to City Council on April 20, 2021. There is sufficient Fire Facilities Impact Fee revenue to offset the appropriation increase and will be budgeted in the Capital Projects Fund Group in the Fire Department. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
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Respectfully Submitted,
XAVIER ESPINO
FIRE CHIEF
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER