Title
Charlotte Water Research and Learning Services
Action
Action:
A. Approve unit price contract with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for Charlotte Water Research and Learning Services for an initial term of one year, and
B. Authorize the City Manager to renew the contract for up to four, one-year terms with possible price adjustments and to amend the contract consistent with the purpose for which the contract was approved.
Body
Staff Resource(s):
Angela Lee, Charlotte Water
Ron Hargrove, Charlotte Water
Jackie Jarrell, Charlotte Water
Explanation
§ Charlotte Water will partner with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC) Energy Production and Infrastructure Center, which provides education and applied research opportunities to students with energy and science related interests.
§ UNCC will identify professors and students in these curriculums to provide Charlotte Water with research assistance to identify and evaluate solutions for optimizing operations. Nationwide, utilities are partnering with universities to provide research that benefit operations.
§ Services include data analysis and research, developing standard operating procedures, and specific projects and research based on current and future needs which optimize Charlotte Water operations.
§ This platform provides opportunities for engaging students in research that benefits the Charlotte community and environment, as well as raising the national visibility of UNCC and Charlotte Water.
§ A waiver of a competitive solicitation process may be granted when deemed appropriate and in the City’s best interest. Such a finding has been made and a waiver granted for this procurement.
§ Estimated contract expenditures are $160,000 annually.
Fiscal Note
Funding: Charlotte Water Operating Budget