SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Authorize a purchase order with Verizon Wireless for cellular and mobile data services in an amount of $2,540,500.00, for the term August 24, 2026 through August 23, 2029, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(c), Piggyback, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY
City operating departments rely on mobile computing devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, cellular telephones, and wireless data connections (air cards), to support daily operations, field data collection, and communication. All cellular and wireless services are managed and billed through the Information Technology Department.
The City is utilizing the State of Florida Department of Management Services Contract No. Contract DMS-19/20-006C for these services. Verizon Wireless was selected based on its proven network reliability, coverage throughout the City's service area, and ability to support the City's operational requirements. In addition, transitioning to a new wireless provider would require the replacement or reconfiguration of approximately 820 cellular devices and 800 wireless data connections, coordination across all City departments, and the migration of numerous mission-critical applications and services. Remaining with the current provider minimizes operational disruption while maintaining reliable communications for City staff.
The estimated expenditure of $2,540,500.00 is allocated as follows:
• $1,548,000.00 - Cellular and smartphone services
• $992,500.00 - Departmental wireless data card services
The City currently maintains approximately 820 cellular devices and 800 wireless data cards, including approximately 280 installed in Police patrol vehicles. The number of mobile devices and wireless users is expected to continue increasing as departments expand the use of mobile technology to improve operational efficiency. Examples include Trimble's asset management solution for Utility Operations and Routeware's service monitoring application for Solid Waste.
This purchase represents an estimated annual savings of approximately $135,000.00 in service costs compared to the previous contract term (2023-2026). Authorization to piggyback the State of Florida Department of Management Services Contract No. DMS-17/18-004E which is valid through July 1, 2031, is requested.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are budgeted and available in the Information Technology department, cost code 5559862-542100/530300, Utilities-Telephone. The Information Technology department is funded by revenues from the Administrative Services Fund, an internal service fund of the city responsible for the administration of city-wide technology services.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
These purchases will support strategic objectives 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 for High Performing Government. The Information Technology Department maintains critical public infrastructure to deliver sustain a high level of service to support a safe and healthy community.
