November 16, 2004

SUBJECT: Award of Bid #F0410-16 for the Automation of the Algae Float System at the Water Pollution Control Plant

REPORT IN BRIEF

Approval is requested for the award of a contract to D. W. Nicholson Corporation of Hayward for the automation of the algae float system at the Water Pollution Control Plant (known as the Energy Recovery Facilities Project- Public Works Project #UY-00/05-01).

BACKGROUND

The scope of work for this project consists of modifying the algae float system to automate the pumping of algae float material to either the oxidation ponds or the digester system, a process that is currently done manually by WPCP Staff.  Automation of pumping to the digesters will optimize methane gas collection for use as fuel to generate electricity in the Plant’s PGF facility, reduce staff time and increase overall system efficiency.  Included in the project are modifications to the float piping system and the ability to interface with the existing WPCP process control system.  This project is funded through the Water and Wastewater Revenue Bonds, Series 2001.

DISCUSSION

Bid specifications were prepared by Public Works and Purchasing staff.  The Notice Inviting Bids was published in The Sun on October 13, 2004.  The bid package was distributed to Bay Area Builders Exchanges and broadcast to potential contractors through the DemandStar by Onvia procurement network.

Four contractors requested bid documents.

Sealed bids were publicly opened on November 3, 2004.  One responsive bid was received.

Staff recommends accepting the single bid received as it is $58,300 below the engineer’s estimate.

A determination was made that this project will have no significant effect on the environment in accordance with CEQA guidelines for categorically exempt projects.

FISCAL IMPACT

Project costs include:

Funds are available in Capital Project #812750- WPCP Energy Improvements.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that Council:

1.                  Award a contract, in substantially the same form as the attached draft and in the amount of $190,000, to D. W. Nicholson Corporation for construction of the Energy Recovery Facilities Project at the Water Pollution Control Plant, and

2.                  Approve a project contingency in the amount of $28,500.

Prepared by:

Elaine Wesely

Purchasing Officer

Reviewed by:

Mary J, Bradley

Director, Finance

Reviewed by:

Marvin Rose

Director, Public Works

Approved by:

Amy Chan

City Manager

ATTACHMENTS:

A. Draft General Construction Contract (PDF)