Explanation
BACKGROUND
This ordinance authorizes the Department of Technology to enter contract with Vertiv Corporation for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC), and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) maintenance and repair services. The city originally entered contract for these services in 2006 via Ordinance 1160-2006. At that time, the company was known as Emerson Network Power, Liebert Services Inc. In 2017, the company formally changed its name to Vertiv Services, Inc., and in 2019 the company formally changed its name to Vertiv Corporation. All subsequent legislation has accurately reflected these name changes to ensure continuous contractual authority. The most recent ordinance for the above-described services was 0307-2025, passed on March 10, 2025.
As a result of various system and equipment issues at the city’s data center, the Department of Technology has selected one comprehensive vendor with the expertise to manage all equipment under one contract. Previously, there were five separate vendors/contractors performing routine maintenance and support services which were not cost effective or efficient, as many systems are interconnected. As such, this ordinance requests the waiver of the competitive bidding provisions of Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Codes.
This ordinance also authorizes funding for the first year of the contract term at a total cost of $298,442.33, which includes contingency funding in the amount of $110,000.00 for unforeseen maintenance services, and replacement parts. The term of this contract will be for one year, beginning on April 19, 2026, and ending on April 18, 2027, with the option to renew for four additional one-year terms or portion thereof. The Department of Technology will plan for future costs of this contract within its budget and will seek Council approval for such funding, if required by City Code.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds for this ordinance are budgeted and available in the 2026 Department of Technology, I...
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