Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes a sole source agreement for the purchase of an ion chromatography system, equipment used by the Public Health Madison & Dane County (PHMDC) laboratory to conduct multiple tests and perform analysis of pool, well, lake and outfall samples. The term of the agreement is seven years and covers the cost of this equipment ($59,588) and an annual warranty ($6,950) for a total of $101,288. Funds are budgeted for the contract. No appropriation is required.
Title
Resolution for the Purchase of Dionex Ion Chromatography System
Body
WHEREAS, the autosampler of the Dionex Ion Chromatography System - a machine that is vital to Public Health Madison & Dane County (PHMDC) laboratory operations and is used to conduct multiple tests - has failed and needs repair; and
WHEREAS, if the machine is not replaced, the lab will not be able to continue serving the county by performing analysis of pool, well, lake and outfall samples; and
WHEREAS, due to the Dionex Ion Chromatography System being in disrepair, the PHMDC laboratory is currently contracting an outside laboratory to perform licensed establishment pool samples. The licensing fees for pool operators include the routine sampling and testing of pool water for 446 Dane County public swim pools and water attractions; and
WHEREAS, beyond pool testing, this machine is also capable of conducting the following tests: Transient Non-Community wells, Nitrate testing for private well, and hundreds of lake and outfall testing. These additional tests provide an invaluable service to our community and help to fund continued laboratory functions; and
WHEREAS, due to the age of the existing machine and high repair costs ($3000 for service call plus the estimated repair cost of $15,000), the most fiscally responsible solution is to replace this equipment; and
WHEREAS, the total costs for this system is $101,287.79 over 7 years, with approximately $6,949.89 in annual warranty costs after the initial system purchase of $59,588.47, which will be incurred in 2022; and
WHEREAS, for the reasons explained above and in the attached Noncompetitive Selection Request Form, Thermo Electron North America LLC is the only vendor that can provide for the specific needs of the Public Health Laboratory;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council hereby authorizes Public Health Madison and Dane County to enter into a sole source agreement with Thermo Electron North America LLC for the purchase of the ion chromatography system.