SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Authorize a purchase order to Communications International of Vero Beach, FL for the purchase of new additional or replacement two-way radios used citywide in a not-to-exceed amount of $200,000.00 through March 31, 2026, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(d), Non-Competitive Purchases (Impractical), and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY
L3Harris are the two-way radios used by Clearwater Police Department, Solid Waste & Recycling, Clearwater Gas System, and other city departments (Standardization). Communications International is the sole authorized service provider for the L3Harris communications equipment.
L3Harris radios have been utilized by the City of Clearwater since 2002 when the partnership with L3Harris started. During that time, all City departments have used the radios in varying degrees. Currently, L3Harris is the radio used by Police and other City departments. L3Harris portable and mobile radios are interoperable and can be used both of the City of Clearwater radio system and the Pinellas County radio system. Maintaining a single-manufacturer radio fleet also simplifies the operation and maintenance of the radios. Using the same manufacturer softens the change from different technologies due to a familiar look and operation. A single manufacturer also provides a maintenance benefit as spare parts can be carried over to different models ultimately reducing maintenance costs.
This purchase order will be used to purchase new mobile or portable radios for the new full-time employees and/or for replacement radios.
In addition, Communications International currently handles all repairs and maintenance of our citywide two-way radio communications system and equipment, which was approved by council on November 2, 2023.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in Garage Fund capital project 366-M2010, P25 Radio Equipment & Infrastructure. The Garage Fund is an internal service fund of the city which supports city-wide fleet and radio maintenance.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
