Explanation
This legislation authorizes the Director of Public Utilities to modify the service contract with Bermex, Inc. to add funding in the amount of $1,250,000.00 for the continuation of Water Meter Reading Services for the Division of Water and to extend the term of the contract through July 31, 2025.
Ordinance 0187-2023 previously extended the term of contract through July 31, 2024.
Ordinance 1466-2018 authorized the Director of Public Utilities (DPU) to enter into contract with Bermex, Inc. to provide Water Meter Reading Services, recurring monthly and quarterly for predetermined routes within the City of Columbus. Services include data collection through manual reads and radio reads using DPU’s equipment.
DPU has been working on an Enhanced Meter Project (EMP) since 2018 which will upgrade the City’s metering system. The implementation is expected to continue through 2025. The intent of this contract is to bridge the gap between the start of the AMI implementation and its conclusion, where it is expected that most meters will be able to be read remotely.
The Department of Public Utilities solicited Competitive Bids for these services in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 329 (RFQ008758). 76 vendors were solicited. Two (2) bids were received and opened on 4/27/18. The Division of Water recommended the contract be awarded to the most responsive and responsible bidder, Bermex, Inc.
The original contract was for one (1) year, from the date of execution (August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019), with the option to renew for five (5) additional years based upon mutual agreement, budgeted funds, and approval by City Council. For each renewal year, funds for service shall be reviewed and expenditures shall be approved by ordinance of City Council, and the appropriation and certification of funds by the City Auditor.
If unforeseen issues or difficulties are encountered that would require additional funding, a modification would be required.
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