AWARD A CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF CALSENSE COMPUTER IRRIGATION SYSTEM EQUIPMENT / EWING IRRIGATION

SUBJECT:

AWARD A CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF CALSENSE COMPUTER IRRIGATION SYSTEM EQUIPMENT

RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council award Bid No. 09.01-03 to Ewing Irrigation of Ontario, California, for the purchase of new Calsense Computer Irrigation Systems equipment for various parks and medians throughout the City in the amount of $272,146; and authorize the City Manager to execute said contract (on file in Records Management).

COUNCIL GOALS: Develop Strategies And Actions To Minimize The Negative Impacts Of The Global Financial Downturn On Ontario’s Economy And The City’s Fiscal Health Invest In The City’s Infrastructure (Water, Streets, Sewers, Parks, Storm Drains and Public Facilities)

FISCAL IMPACT: In December 2008, the City received a grant from Metropolitan Water District Public Sector Program of $317,416 for the purchase of Calsense Computer Irrigation Systems. The recommended bid is $272,146. The Parks and Maintenance Department operating budget includes funding for the initial installation, routine inspection, repair and replacement costs. It is anticipated that the improved irrigation control systems will reduce water consumption in the proposed locations by as much as 15% annually, roughly 105 acre-feet, or the equivalent annual water consumption of 200 households and provide an annual water cost savings to the General Fund of approximately $70,000.

BACKGROUND: In July 2008, the City Council authorized the acceptance of the incentive award from Metropolitan Water District allowing for the purchase of new water conserving computer irrigation control systems for City parks, medians and open spaces.

The purchase of the Calsense Central Computer Irrigation Systems will help the City with its continuous efforts at conserving water citywide. The weather based systems by Calsense will monitor and adjust water settings to the appropriate levels based on the existing climate conditions. The current non-weather based controllers supply water at maximum water settings regardless of weather conditions.

If approved, the Calsense system will be installed at 15 city parks, Euclid Avenue and Mission Boulevard medians and areas around City Hall.

On February 12, 2009, five (5) bids were received for Bid No. 09.01-03. Ewing Irrigation submitted the low bid; and a bid summary table is shown below.

*For comparison purposes, a 1% local vendor preference would apply in accordance with Section 2-6.19(b) of the Ontario Municipal Code

Staff recommends award to Ewing Irrigation based on their bid and ability to deliver the materials in a timely manner.

 STAFF MEMBER PRESENTING: Mark Chase, Director of Community and Public Services