TO: Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Cale Curtis, City Manager
DATE: August 21, 2024
Title
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF MARGATE, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING A WAIVER OF BIDDING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF SOLE SOURCE LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND SERVICES FROM THE AVANTI COMPANY FOR THE CITY FACILITIES; AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF $95,994.00 FOR PROTECTION OF WATER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS
BACKGROUND: The City of Margate's water and wastewater treatment facilities house extensive electronic and electrical systems, including sensors for control and monitoring equipment. These systems are sensitive to power surges caused by lightning strikes, which can lead to equipment failure, data loss, and costly repairs. The lightning protection system will protect this critical infrastructure and help to ensure uninterrupted service.
The Avanti system provides more protection compared to traditional grounding methods. Traditional systems primarily protect a building’s structure and main electrical systems. In contrast, the Avanti system not only grounds the building but also actively prevents lightning formation within a 393-foot radius. Since many electrical and electronic components are located outside the building, traditional wire grounding methods are often impossible. The Avanti system's electromagnetic radius extends protection to outdoor fields, safeguarding sensitive equipment such as electronic controls and pumps. When a lightning strike occurs, the system safely drains excess charges.
The Avanti Company has been identified as the sole source provider capable of supplying and installing these advanced lightning protection systems. Their systems are compatible with the City's existing infrastructure and have been successfully utilized in various critical infrastructure and public facilities across Florida, including:
1) Crown Castle Tower Project - St. Augustine, FL
2) Cape Canaveral - Cape Canaveral, FL (Pending Installation)
3) Citrus Park Utility - Bonita Springs, FL
4) Island Water Association - Sanibel, FL
5) Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center - Sarasota County, FL
6) Manatee County - Manatee County, FL
7) State Trust Capital Building - Boca Raton, FL
8) Falcon’s Fury, Busch Gardens - Tampa, FL
9) USTA National Campus - Orlando, FL
10) Crane Installation, Port of Tampa - Tampa, FL
RECOMMENDATION: Approval
FISCAL IMPACT: $95,994.00, Account 461-6067-536.65-81(Facilities Hardening)
CONTACT PERSON: Curt Keyser, DEES Director