Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes a modification of Contract EL-003295, with Asplundh Tree Expert Co., to provide power line clearance services for the Division of Electricity.
Amount of additional funds to be expended: $50,000.00
Reasons additional goods/services could not be foreseen: Power line clearance is a tree trimming service that the division continuously needs for the maintenance of its distribution and street lighting circuits. Due to the ice storm in December, 2004, the division used this service more than anticipated and funds have been depleted. This modification provides funding needed for the remainder of the term of the contract through March 31, 2005.
Reasons other procurement processes are not used: The existing contract is based upon the lowest responsive and responsible bid received and opened on December 10, 2002. The contract provides for services from April 1, 2003 through March 31, 2005, however, funds are certified during each fiscal year. It is now necessary to increase funding in order that services may continue through the term of the contract. Bids have been solicited and the Division of Electricity is in the process of establishing a new contract to begin April 1, 2005.
How cost of modification was determined: The cost is based upon the estimated needs at the rates in the existing contract.
Contract Compliance Number: 231277550
Emergency action is requested in order that the contract modification may be executed on a timely basis in order that invoices may be paid and to avoid any interruption in service.
FISCAL IMPACT: $195,000 was budgeted in the 2005 Division of Electricity operating fund for this expenditure. Approximately $195,000 was spent each year in 2003 and 2004 for this service.
Title
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to modify an existing contract with Asplundh Tree Expert Co. for power line clearance services for the Division of Electricity; to authorize the expenditure of $50,000.00 from the Division of Electricity Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($50,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, Contract Number EL003295, with Asplundh Tree Expert Company, was authorized by Ordinance Number 0176-03, passed February 24, 2003, for power line clearance; and
WHEREAS, the total ceiling price for Contract Number EL003295 was increased in 2004 in accordance with Ordinance Number 0379-2004, passed March 29, 2004; and
WHEREAS, power line clearance services are required by the Division of Electricity for maintenance of distribution and street lighting circuits through the term of the existing contract; and
WHEREAS, emergency action is necessary to modify the contract to provide funding so that services may continue without interruption through the remainder of the contract term; and
WHEREAS, an emergency exists in the usual daily operation of the Department of Public Utilities, Division of Electricity, in that it is immediately necessary to modify an existing contract with Asplundh Tree Expert Co. for power line clearance services for the immediate preservation of the public health, peace, property, safety and welfare; now, therefore,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the Director of Public Utilities be and is hereby authorized to modify Contract Number EL003295 with Asplundh Tree Expert Co. for power line clearance services, in the amount of $50,000.00.
SECTION 2. That this contract modification is in compliance with Section 329.13 of Columbus City Codes, 1959.
SECTION 3. That to pay the cost of the aforesaid contract modification, the expenditure of $50,000.00, or so much thereof as may be needed, is hereby authorized from Division of Electricity Operating Fund 550, Division No. 60-07, OCA Code 606764, Object Level Three 3375.
SECTION 4. That for reasons stated in the preamble hereto, which is hereby made a part hereof, this ordinance is declared to be an emergency measure and shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage and approval by the Mayor, or ten days after passage, if the Mayor neither approves nor vetoes the same.