REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: BROCK D. BUCHE, PE, PLS, Director
Department of Public Utilities
BY: CHAD COLBY, Water Manager
Department of Public Utilities - Water Division
RON SIMONS, Water System Supervisor
Department of Public Utilities - Water Division
SUBJECT
Title
Award a requirements contract to Metron-Farnier LLC, for the purchase of large diameter water meters for three years with two optional one-year extensions, in an amount not to exceed $156,332.80 per year, plus annual Consumer Price Index increases (Bid File 12400342) (Citywide).
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council award a three-year requirements contract to Metron-Farnier LLC, in the amount of $156,332.80 per year for three years, and up to two one-year extensions, for a total contract amount of $781,664, plus annual Consumer Price Index increases, for the purchase of large diameter water meters; and authorize the Director of Public Utilities, or designee, to sign the contract on behalf of the City of Fresno (City).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Department of Public Utilities (DPU), Water Division, installs and maintains large diameter water meters for services typically ranging in size from 3-inches to 8-inches in diameter. Overtime these meters wear out resulting in declining accuracy of volumetric measurement. To ensure accurate volumetric measurement of water use, the ability to timely replace malfunctioning meters and install meters for new services, it is vital to maintain a ready supply of these meters.
BACKGROUND
The Water Division maintains approximately over 1,400 large diameter meters. The Water Division ensures that every customer is metered and water use measured accurately. Large meters are used primarily for commercial and industrial applications that have high water use. Single jet water meters are considered to be a most effective meter for the City of Fresno’s water supply as they are relatively unaffected by sand and/or small debris and are very accurate at both low and high-end flow rates. Having an inventory of meters on hand for new installations and replacements is needed to maintain accurate measurement of water consumption.
A notice inviting Bids was published on August 23, 2023, per the City of Fresno Section 1208. Bids were opened on September 19, 2023. It was determined that Metron-Farnier was the sole responsible bidder.
Staff recommends that Council award a three-year requirements contract to purchase large diameter water meters with Metron-Farnier in the amount of $156,332.80 per year, with up to two one-year extensions. Note that $156,332.80 is based on previous annual contract expenditures, expected new growth, and continued maintenance of the metering system.
ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
By the definition provided in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15378, the award of this contract is not a “project” as defined by CEQA.
LOCAL PREFERENCE
Local preference is not applicable in this instance.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no impact to the General Fund. This Project is located citywide. Funding for this project is included in the Water Division’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget within the Water Enterprise Fund (4000-4001). Future purchases will be included in the upcoming fiscal year budgets. This is a three-year contract with provision for up to two one-year extensions.
Attachments: Sample Contract
Signed Bid Evaluation and Fiscal Impact