Report Prepared by: Charles Slagter, WWTP Operations Supervisor
Title
SUBJECT: Purchase of a Kubota Loader Utilizing the Government Procurement Program and Waiving of the Competitive Bidding Requirement
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers waiving the competitive bidding requirement for the purchase of a Kubota loader in the amount of $65,920.76 for the loading of biosolids at the Wastewater Treatment Facility through the National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA) Government Procurement Program.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion waiving the City’s competitive bidding requirement to purchase one Kubota loader from the National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA) Program for $65,920.76; and, authorizing the City Buyer to issue the purchase order.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommend by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by Staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to Staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Merced Municipal Code Section 3.04.210 - Exemptions from competitive bidding.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2017-18 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
In 2013, the Wastewater Treatment Plant purchased a rubber tracked bobcat (E-1374) for the purpose of loading biosolids into the active solar dryers. Over the past few years, this unit has proved mechanically unreliable and has accumulated over $45,000 in parts and labor due to continuous breakdowns. The frequency of breakdowns have increased dramatically in the last calendar year. In addition to the extensive mechanical breakdowns, the unit is experiencing accelerated levels of corrosion due to the aggressive, corrosive nature of the work environment. This corrosion will shorten service life and likely incur further expense.
After consultation with City’s Fleet staff, it was decided that the best solution for the problematic bobcat is to purchase a replacement loader. Staff also feels that by removing the bobcat from the active solar dryers, the service life that is still available on E-1374 can be extended by serving as a backup to other Public Works departments on construction related duties, should any department’s normal unit be out for service.
The process for determining a replacement loader was focused on three key factors. First was turning radius; the environment inside the active solar driers is a confined area, a loader with a tight turning radius is crucial to avoid structural damage to the active solar dryers. Second factor was local support. A Kubota service center is located close to the Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF). Third factor was reliability and ease of maintenance. The City’s Fleet Maintenance staff like Kubota’s reputation for serviceability and reliability. It is anticipated that this purchase will result in a savings of staff time for routine maintenance.
By purchasing the Kubota loader through the NJPA program the City will save approximately $18,918.72. The cost of the replacement equipment, including applicable tax, is $65,920.76. WWTF staff would like to request approval to waive the competitive bidding process and purchase the Kubota loader through the NJPA.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
Funding is available within the Wastewater Treatment Facility budget.
ATTACHMENTS
1. NJPA Quote
2. NJPA Membership