SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a purchase order to Bliss Products, of Lithia Springs, Georgia for the purchase of various amenities for multiple park locations in the total amount of $204,518.24, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Sections 2.563(1)(c), piggyback, and 2.563(1)(d), Impractical, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
The Parks and Recreation Department manage over 100 parks encompassing approximately 1,700 acres of parkland. As part of its ongoing commitment to providing clean, accessible, and welcoming outdoor spaces, the Department maintains site furnishings such as:
• Trash receptacles to manage litter,
• Picnic tables (including ADA-accessible models) for public use,
• Park benches for relaxation and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Replacement of Aging Amenities:
Many existing furnishings, constructed from metal and wood, are rated using a standardized scale of poor, fair, or good condition. Amenities rated poor to fair are being prioritized for replacement. The new amenities will:
• Be made of cement and recycled plastic, offering enhanced durability,
• Require minimal maintenance, with only annual pressure washing,
• Feature a 20-year life expectancy, reducing long-term replacement costs,
• Offer a sustainable and visually appealing upgrade.
The replacement furnishings will be procured from Bliss Products, Inc., under:
• Clay County Bid No. 23/24-074, approved July 24, 2024,
• Initial contract term through July 23, 2027, with two (2) optional one-year renewals.
• Total piggyback amount: $147,867.50
(Includes concrete and recycled plastic benches, picnic tables, and trash receptacles)
Pursuant to Section 2.563(1)(d), a non-competitive purchase totaling $56,650.74 under Bliss Quote No. 77333 is deemed impractical to competitively bid due to specific product and finish requirements. This amount includes:
• $20,300.74 - Freight
• $15,400.00 - Sandblast Brown Pigment Finish
• $14,200.00 - Sealer (two coats)
• $6,750.00 - Stainless Steel Support Plates
Justification:
• The Sandblast Brown Pigment Finish was selected to match existing amenities for visual consistency across parks.
• The sealer enhances the concrete’s appearance, protects against salt and chlorides, and aids in graffiti removal.
• These features collectively reduce cleaning frequency and labor costs, supporting the Department’s goal of long-term operational efficiency.
Appropriation code and Amount:
Funds are available in M2206 Parks and Beautification R & R.
Strategic Priorities
Approval of the purchase order supports several Strategic Plan Objectives, including:
• 1.2: Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
• 1.3: Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities, and identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
• 1.5: Embrace a culture of innovation that drives continuous improvement and successfully serves all our customers.
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
• 3.1: Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
• 3.2: Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
