HomeMy WebLinkAbout10 Soft Start and Automatic Transfer Switch
AGENDA ITEM#10
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MEETING DATE: December 1, 2021
To: Board of Directors
FROM: Earl Smith, Water Operations Manager
SUBJECT: Consideration to Authorize Procurement of a Soft Start and
Automatic Transfer Switch Assembly for the Emergency
Backup Generator at Martis Valley Well
APPROVED BY______________________________
Brian C. Wright, General Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the General Manager to execute a procurement contract with WEDCO Inc. for a
soft start and automatic transfer switch assembly for the emergency backup generator at
Martis Valley Well in the amount of $39,181, plus a 10% change order allowance for a total
not to exceed $43,099 + incidentals and sales tax.
DISCUSSION:
The District’s recently updated 10-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) has identified
multiple locations in which the placement of emergency back-up generators will
significantly enhance the reliability of potable water deliveries to our customers during
prolonged power outages. In particular, staff has recently prioritized the need for back-up
generators to be installed at critical groundwater well facilities due to the adoption of Public
Safety Outage Management (PSOM) programs in 2019, and recent updates to the program
earlier this summer.
One of the key well facilities identified by staff to be prioritized for the procurement of
emergency back-up generation is Martis Valley Well. This prioritization was based upon
well productivity and physical characteristics of the well location, such as ease of access
for fueling and maintenance.
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In March of 2021 the District was awarded grant funds through the California Office of
Emergency Services (Cal OES), in the amount of $300,000 to procure an Emergency
Backup Generator for the Martis Valley Well. One of the key requirements of the grant is
the District must use the awarded funds no later than March 31, 2021.
At the July 21, 2021 Board Meeting the Board approved the procurement of an emergency
backup generator. In order to support the installation and operation of the new generator, a
new soft start and automatic transfer switch assembly are needed.
On August 6, 2021 the District announced its intention to procure a soft start and automatic
transfer switch, compatible with the generator we have purchased, and a request for bids
with a closing date of August 20, 2021. A public bid opening was held at which time the
District received one bid.
On September 1, 2021 the Board authorized the execution of a contract to procure a soft
start and automatic transfer switch with Graybar Electric for the Martis Valley Well
Generator. Unfortunately, Graybar Electric has since rescinded their bid due to supply
chain issues. This was despite numerous attempts to negotiate the contract terms such
that the District and Graybar were mutually comfortable with expectations.
On October 6, 2021 the Board authorized the General Manager to dispense with
competitive bidding and authorize staff to negotiate directly with other vendors that can
supply this equipment.
In October 2021, staff reached out to several vendors supplying electrical switchgear
seeking pricing and delivery timelines in alignment with District needs. The District received
one quote from WEDCO Inc. After review, District staff has determined the equipment
specifications and delivery timelines will meet the District’s needs.
This item satisfies the following goals and objectives:
1.05.020 Objectives:
1. Responsibly serve the public
3. Provide reliable and high quality water supply and distribution system to meet
current and future needs.
6. Manage the District in an effective, efficient, and fiscally responsible manner
Strategic Plan Goals:
Manage for financial stability and resiliency
FISCAL IMPACT:
This procurement was not included in the Board approved FY2020-21 Budget. However,
the District has received CalOES grant funding in the amount of $300,000 for the
procurement and installation of the Martis Valley Well emergency back-up generator
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including all associated equipment and materials. The equipment included in this
procurement authorization will be funded by these grant monies.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1: WEDCO Inc. Quote