Title
Water and Wastewater Programmable Logic Controllers
Action
Action:
A. Approve the purchase of programmable logic controllers and related electrical components, by the sole source exemption, and
B. Approve a contract with AutomationDirect.com Inc. for the purchase of programmable logic controllers and related electrical components for the term of five years.
Body
Staff Resource(s):
Angela Lee, Charlotte Water
Ron Hargrove, Charlotte Water
Sole Source Exemption
§ G.S. 143-129(e)(6) provides that formal bidding requirements do not apply when:
- Performance or price competition are not available;
- A needed product is available from only one source or supply; or
- Standardization or compatibility is the overriding consideration.
§ Sole sourcing is necessary for this contract because there is only one supply source, and standardization is an important consideration.
§ The City Council must approve purchases made under the sole source exemption.
Explanation
§ This contract will allow for the standardization of AutomationDirect.com Inc. programmable logic controllers to automate processes throughout the systems while generating data necessary for reporting that is required by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.
§ Since the early 1990s, programmable logic controllers have been used as an integral part of its treatment and lift station operations.
§ Benefits of standardization are reduced spare parts inventory, support equipment, training requirements, and cost of maintenance.
§ Annual expenditures are estimated to be $300,000.
Charlotte Business INClusion
This is a sole source contract and is exempt (Part A: Appendix 1.27 of the Charlotte Business INClusion Policy).
Fiscal Note
Funding: Charlotte Water Operating Budget