As part of the 2020 Operation budget, the Utility Division of Public Works includes $127,000 for replacement and upgrades to pumps, motor controls, and SCADA improvements.

Throughout the year, the Village's Water and Sewer System requires ongoing replacement and/or addition of Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) and other equipment.  VFD'S control the speed at which a motor drives a pump and for this circumstance, will vary the speed of all water booster pumps to achieve a specific pressure within the water distribution system, regardless of the varying demand for water consumption.

The Water Production Unit of Public Works solicits competitive quotes for VFD's.  Over the last several years, LAI, Ltd., of Rolling Meadows, IL has consistently provided the lowest competitive quote.  A recent request for quotes yielded the following for the needed VFD's for Booster Station #13.

LAI, Ltd., Rolling Meadows, IL                   $22,175 (2 each)

Wunderlich-Malek, Vernon Hills, IL             $24,800 (2 each)

JMB & Associates, Menomonee Falls, WI    $27,718 9 (2 each)

The approval of this contract with LAI, Ltd. passes this year's total expenditures for VFD's with this company over $25,000 (due to previous purchases) and therefore needs Board approval.

Staff is recommending award of contract with LAI, Ltd. in the amount of $75,000, which will cover any additional VFDs for this budget year.

Funds for these improvements are available in Account No. 505-7201-561.50-15 (EQ1530).  Staff will be requesting LAI, Ltd. be added to the 2021 over $25,000 list to expedite these purchases in future years. 

RECOMMEDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board award the Variable Frequency Drives 2020 contract to the lowest responsible bidder, LAI, Ltd. of Rolling Meadows, Illinois in the amount not-to-exceed $75,000 and authorize staff to execute the necessary documents.