Report Prepared by: Juan Olmos, Public Works Manager-Tax Services
Title
SUBJECT: Approval to Waive the Competitive Bidding Requirements and Approve the Purchase of Two Traffic Signal Detection Systems from Iteris, Inc., in the Amount not to Exceed $51,000
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving to waive the City’s competitive bidding requirements pursuant to Merced Municipal Code Section 3.04.210 and approving the purchase of two traffic signal detection systems.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Waiving the City’s competitive bidding requirement as permitted by Merced Municipal Code Section 3.4.210 for purchases necessary for standardization on particular types of equipment; and,
B. Approving the purchase of traffic signal detection systems from Iteris, Inc., in the amount not to exceed $51,000; and,
C. Authorizing the City buyer to issue the purchase order(s); and,
D. Authorizing the City Manager or Deputy City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to conditions other than recommended by staff (identify specific findings and/or
conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
City of Merced Charter Section 3.04.210 - Exemptions from Competitive Bidding:
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, competitive bidding requirements for purchases in excess of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00), the "bidding threshold”, may be waived with the approval of the city council. Waivers may be authorized for, but are not limited to, cooperative purchasing in conjunction with other governmental entities, professional services, annual service or supply agreements, or purchases necessary for standardization on particular types of equipment. The bidding threshold shall be adjusted for inflation utilizing the same index and methodology as the
bidding threshold in Section 3.04.080 of this code.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2023-24 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
The City of Merced Public Works Department utilizes traffic signal detection systems to allow for the safe crossing of pedestrians and vehicles at signalized intersections. The proposed camera system utilizes two different technologies, video imaging and radar. Public Works Department is currently utilizing this system at the Mercy and G Street traffic signal with favorable results. The purchase of the two complete signal detection systems will improve traffic signals at G Street & El Portal Avenue and at G Street & Main Street.
The Public Works Department is requesting Council waive competitive bidding requirements to allow for the purchase of traffic signal camera detection system parts.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
No appropriation of funds is needed. Funding is available within the Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget via SB1 - Road Repair and Accountability Act, Local Streets and Roads Program, in Streets Maintenance Account 30016015-590003.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Iteris, Inc. Quotes
2. Single Source Request