Explanation
This ordinance authorizes the Director of Public Utilities to modify and increase a contract with Sensus USA Inc. to provide ongoing software, hardware, and maintenance of the system required as part of the Enhanced Meter Project (EMP) legislated under Ordinance #1024-2020. Planning area - 99 (Entire service area including suburbs).
This contract is for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the system and software to ensure the system implemented as part of the EMP is usable. As legislated under Ordinance #1024-2020, the Enhanced Meter Project CIP will replace outdated and underperforming meters, install radio transmitting infrastructure to allow wireless readings relayed to the billing software at a central location, and provide an environmentally efficient way to read meters.
PROCUREMENT:
Chapter 329 of Columbus City Code was followed as part of the Enhanced Meter Project CIP, which was legislated under Ordinance #1024-2020. After proposals were received, the Software-as-a-service (SAAS) contract and cost were negotiated and the department determined the price to be acceptable. During negotiations with the selected vendor for the EMP, the department determined that using a SAAS and Managed Services model, where the vendor hosts all data and software on their computer servers and maintains the system, is in the best interest of the City and the Division of Water. As the meter equipment is proprietary to the vendor, it is in the City’s best interest to waive the competitive bidding provisions of City Code for the operating portion of the contract.
The term of the operating contract shall begin on the Effective Date and continue through March 31, 2026 (the “Initial Term”). The Contract is subject to annual funding approval, which will require the authorization of Columbus City Council, the appropriation of additional funds by the Columbus City Auditor, and the execution of a contract modification to increase the maximum obligation.
Per Ordin...
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