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SUBJECT:

Award of Request for Proposals #F0208-22 for Biosolids Transportation and Disposal or Reuse

REPORT IN BRIEF

Approval is requested for the award of a three-year contract to Synagro Technologies, Inc., of Houston, Texas for the loading, transportation and disposal or reuse of biosolids for the Department of Public Works Environmental Services Division.

BACKGROUND

The scope of work for this project consists of the disposal of stabilized dewatered wastewater solids processed at the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP). The material to be removed consists of wastewater biosolids anaerobically digested and processed solids removed from the WPCP's oxidation ponds. These solids are further processed and relocated to the drying beds, where the water is allowed to evaporate. The material is then moved to the storage area where it is ready for loading and removal. The current three-year contract was awarded by Council in 1999 (RTC #99-475) and will expire January 1, 2003.

DISCUSSION

Request for Proposals specifications were developed by PW/Environmental and Purchasing staff, with special focus on beneficial reuse, rather than just disposal, of the biosolids materials. Additional points in the evaluation of proposals were allotted for a comprehensive reuse plan as opposed to landfill dumping of the biosolids. The Request for Proposals was distributed to five Northern California waste processing firms. Sealed proposals were publicly opened on October 9, 2002. Proposals were received from BFI/Forward, Inc., of Milpitas and Synagro Technologies, Inc., of Houston, Texas. The proposal bond submitted by BFI/Forward, Inc. was issued by a surety not licensed by the State of California; and the proposal is, therefore, non-responsive. After extensive review of the Synagro Technologies, Inc., proposal and its reuse plan, staff recommends the award of a three-year contract to Synagro Technologies.

FISCAL IMPACT

Estimated expenditures for biosolids loading, transportation and disposal or reuse are expected to be $140,000 per year for a contract total not to exceed $420,000. The unit cost of $33.67/ton for biosolids removal from the paved drying area represents a 6.5 % increase over previous pricing. Funds are available in Public Works Operating Account #342700, and Infrastructure Project #822670 - Pond Rehabilitation.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that Council award a three-year contract in substantially the same form as the attached draft in an amount not to exceed $420,000 to Synagro Technologies, Inc., for the loading, transportation and disposal or reuse of biosolids.

Prepared by:
Elaine Wesely
Purchasing Officer

Reviewed by:
Mary J. Bradley
Director, Finance

Marvin Rose
Director, Public Works

Attachments

1. Draft Contract (.pdf file)

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