Explanation
BACKGROUND: To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to enter into a contract with Kevin Lehr Associates for the purchase of Wooden Utility Poles for the Division of Power. The Wooden Utility Poles will be used for new installations and for maintenance, repair, replacement and construction projects to maintain the street lighting system in the Columbus Area.
The Purchasing Office advertised and solicited informal competitive bids in accordance with the relevant provisions of City Code Chapter 329 relating to competitive bidding (RFQ026210). Sixty-nine (69) vendors (3 EBE, 57 MAJ, 7 MBE, 1 MBE/VBE, 1 WBE) were solicited and four (4) bids (4 MAJ) were received and opened on November 13, 2023. Informal bids were solicited due to time constraints and the lead time to procure Wooden Utility Poles, therefore, a bid waiver is required in accordance with Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Code.
The lowest bidder, Planet Holding, Inc. is not registered with the Ohio Secretary of State and has not completed their contract compliance application which are requirements of the City of Columbus, therefore due to time restraints, the Department of Public Utilities feels it is in the best interest to move to the next bidder.
Therefore, the Division of Power recommends an award be made for all items to Kevin Lehr Associates in the amount of $407,690.00 as the most responsive, responsible and best bidder.
The company is not debarred according to the Excluded Party Listing System of the Federal Government or prohibited from being awarded a contract according to the Auditor of State Unresolved Findings for Recovery Certified Search.
EMERGENCY DESIGNATION: The Department of Public Utilities respectfully requests this legislation be considered for immediate use to avoid interruption of City services due to the current inventory stock and the long lead times to procure Wooden Utility Poles.
SUPPLIER: Kevin Lehr Associates, Vendor #003880,...
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