To: Board of Supervisors
From: Lewis Broschard, Chief, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Report Title: Cross Connections - BK Technologies
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Acting as the governing board of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, on behalf of the Fire Chief, to execute a purchase order with Cross Connections, an authorized reseller for BK Technology, subject to the terms of the NASPO ValuePoint Master Agreement and the Participating Addendum between BK Technologies, Inc. and the State of Washington, in an amount not to exceed $425,000 for purchase of Public Safety Communication Products, Services and Solutions.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted. 100% CCCFPD General Fund
BACKGROUND:
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District needs to procure essential radio equipment maintenance services through a reliable vendor. Cross Connections, which holds a National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) contract, was selected as the vendor for these services through a cooperative purchase agreement. This cooperative procurement avenue allows the Fire District to access pre-negotiated rates, fostering operational efficiency and cost-effective solutions.
Cross Connections was selected based on several critical factors that align with the operational needs of the Fire District. Their NASPO contract allows to procure products at predetermined rates, supporting pre-negotiated competitive pricing. Cross Connections' commitment to exceptional customer service is evidenced by their proactive communication regarding shipment tracking, which is vital for operational planning. They also provide software updates at no additional cost, ensuring the Fire District’s systems are both up to date and secure. Notably, Cross Connections has maintained consistent pricing, even during high-demand periods such as the summer fire season, allowing to manage costs effectively.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
The Fire District would need to identify alternative methods to replace aging critical public safety communication radios, which would negatively impact public service delivery and the safety of our members.