Approval is requested for the award of a three-year contract to Forward, Inc. of Fremont to provide biosolid collection, transportation and reuse services for the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP).

Wastewater biosolids are a byproduct of the treatment process at the WPCP. Sludge and digester tank solids are currently being pumped to the new dewatering facility for drying and temporary storage and ultimately for loading, transportation and disposal off site.

In the past, biosolid production was low enough that transportation and disposal could be informally bid, as needed. However, now that the sludge dewatering facility is in full operation, biosolid production is consistent and requires regular removal on a scheduled basis. The cost associated with a multi-year collection contract necessitates Council award of contract.

Specifications were developed by Public Works and Purchasing staff. The RFP format was selected to allow contractor selection based on factors in addition to cost. Request for Proposals #F9906-117 was prepared and made available to nine potential contractors. Proposals were received from RPI/BioGro of Oakland and Forward, Inc., a division of Browning-Ferris Industries, of Fremont.

The proposals were evaluated based upon the responsiveness of the proposal, the proposer’s ability to perform the specified services, the proposer’s approach to the disposal/reuse of the biosolids, and the total cost of the three-year contract.

Staff found both proposals to be responsive and both proposers to be capable of performing the services. Both are familiar with the WPCP facility and the dewatering operation, and both offered beneficial reuse options for the biosolids. However, the pricing structure offered by Forward, Inc., over the life of the three-year contract is approximately $30,000 lower than pricing offered by RPI/Bio-Gro.

Staff recommends accepting the proposal from Forward, Inc.

Total biosolid collection costs for the three-year contract will not exceed $522,369. Funds are available in Public Works Account #801000-5240.

It is recommended that Council award a three-year contract in an amount not to exceed $522,369 to Forward, Inc., of Fremont for biosolid collection services for the Water Pollution Control Plant and authorize the Purchasing Officer to issue a purchase order to that effect.

Prepared by:

Elaine Wesely
Purchasing Officer

Reviewed by:

Mary Bradley
Director of Finance

Reviewed by:

Marvin Rose
Director of Public Works

Approved by:

Robert S. LaSala
City Manager