Title
Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Updated Microwave Equipment on Five (5) Communication Towers for Guilford Metro 911 - Agreement Backhaul Refresh, dated June 12, 2020
Body
Council Priority: Maintain Communications at Metro 911 Center
Department: Guilford Metro 911
Council District: All
Public Hearing: N/A
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Melanie Neal, 373-2646
Contact 2 and Phone: Lewis Cheatham, 373-2316
The proposal, dated June 18, 2020, between the City of Greensboro and Motorola for the Microwave Backhaul Refresh, will be replacing the current equipment at five communication towers. In accordance with the City’s Sole Source Policy, City Council authorization is required. Click the link to view the Motorola Agreement <https://www.greensboro-nc.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=46083>.
BACKGROUND:
The microwave upgrade equipment is needed for our radio system due to the current equipment being obsolete and our inability to purchase parts to support current equipment. Maintaining and updating the equipment is essential for the ability of Guilford Metro 911 to stay current and improve emergency response systems. This equipment is being used throughout the City therefore standardization is critical to maintain our communication abilities. NC General Statute 143-129(e)(6) allows for the purchase of apparatus, supplies, materials, or equipment when: (i) performance or price competition for a product are not available; (ii) a needed product is available from only one source of supply; or (iii) standardization or compatibility is the overriding consideration. GM911 is requesting Sole Source approval for this Motorola agreement in order to maintain standardization and compatibility with existing network equipment and software. This equipment is needed to remain active with the same capabilities we currently have. This is a onetime purchase to upgrade the existing obsolete model and will be maintained by GM911 Radio Shop personnel. The vendor will do the initial install so the equipment will be integrated properly to our radio system which is also Motorola. After final acceptance and all specifications are met, GM911 Radio Shop personnel maintain the equipment.
PURPOSE:
This equipment is critical to our public safety communications system as it serves as the data backhaul connecting tower sites and our 911 centers for Greensboro, Guilford County, Burlington, Thomasville and many other Local, State and Federal agencies throughout our region.
BUDGET IMPACT:
All of the costs ($738,000) for the Microwave Backhaul Refresh will be paid from funds received from Microwave Refresh Project Funding that was approved June 2019. Half of the costs for this project will be reimbursed by Guilford County.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Guilford Metro 911 requests approval of the attached Resolution for the Microwave Backhaul Refresh.