Title
Amendment to Contract with Asplundh Tree Expert Company for Electric Distribution Line Clearance (B)
Explanation
The utility’s electric transmission and distribution systems require periodic line clearance, tree trimming, right-of-way maintenance, weed control and related services. Approximately 600 distribution system and 125 transmission system miles of line are maintained in accordance with American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) arboricultural standards. The line clearance and maintenance program has reduced customer tree related service interruptions. In addition, the North American Reliability Corporation (NERC) has established stringent line clearance maintenance standards that must be adhered to. The purpose of this contract is to enhance system reliability, heighten customer satisfaction, promote safety and comply with federal regulation in a cost effective manner while preserving the aesthetic qualities of the tree canopy.
In addition to routine maintenance, this contract provides the utility with access to emergency response resources as required in major system restoration efforts. Asplundh has the capability to supplement local crews with resources from regions throughout the country. The availability of such additional resources was critical to the utility’s restoration efforts following the 2004 hurricane season.
On September 5, 2013, the City Commission approved a three-year contract to Asplundh Tree Expert Company (Asplundh) for electric distribution line clearance, tree trimming, right-of-way maintenance, weed control and related work. The contract provides for a three-year extension of the contract upon mutual agreement of the parties. This contract is subject to the Living Wage Ordinance and the wages paid to the Contractor’s employees reflect the current rates established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Wages may be adjusted annually to maintain compliance with this ordinance. Any fiscal impact is reported to the City Commission on an annual basis. Asplundh has performed the work efficiently, works well with GRU crews, and is agreeable to a contract extension. The annual cost of this contract is approximately $2,159,945 based on the average budgeted amounts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2019.
This item was presented to the Utility Advisory Board on August 17, 2016.
Fiscal Note
Funds for this request are included in the Operations and Maintenance and Capital Budgets for FY2017, and will be requested in subsequent year budgets.
Recommendation:
The City Commission: 1) authorize the General Manager, or his designee, to execute an amendment to the contract for an additional three-year term with Asplundh Tree Expert Company, subject to approval of the City Attorney as to form and legality; and 2) approve the issuance of purchase orders in amounts not-to-exceed budgeted amounts for these services for each year of the contract, subject to the final appropriation of funds for each year of the contract.
On August 17, 2016, the Utility Advisory Board voted unanimously to support staff's recommendation.