To: Board of Supervisors
From: Alison McKee, County Librarian
Report Title: Contract with Sutherland Consulting Group, Inc (dba EdTechnologyFunds, Inc.)
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the County Librarian, or designee, to execute a contract with Sutherland Consulting Group, Inc (dba EdTechnologyFunds, Inc.) in an amount not to exceed $350,000 to provide E-Rate consulting services for the period November 1, 2026, through October 31, 2029.
FISCAL IMPACT:
100% Library Fund - No impact to the General Fund.
BACKGROUND:
The Library Department participates in the federal E-rate program, which provides discounts on broadband and telecommunications services to help libraries and schools reduce the cost of essential internet connectivity. By leveraging E-rate, the library is able to maintain reliable, high-speed internet access for patrons and staff while significantly lowering ongoing operational expenses.
To ensure compliance with program rules and to maximize the library’s eligible funding each year, specialized consulting support is required. The proposed contract provides expert guidance throughout the application, documentation, and reimbursement processes, helping the library avoid errors, meet deadlines, and secure the highest possible discounts.
The Library, with the assistance of Public Works Purchasing Services Division, conducted a formal solicitation for these services through BidNet. After thorough evaluation of the bids received, Sutherland Consulting Group, Inc (dba EdTechnologyFunds, Inc.) was awarded for these services. The contract will have a term of three (3) years. The contract payment limit will be $350,000.
This contract is subject to County Counsel review and approval as to form, and is entered into subject to the following legal authority, California Government Code § 31000.
This contract does not meet AB339 criteria.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If not approved, the library may be unable to navigate the complex E-rate process effectively, which could jeopardize future discounts.