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PROPOSAL:

Execute Contract to Acquire Continuous Ambient CO Analyzers

SYNOPSIS:

On September 12, 1997, the Board approved an RFQ to acquire continuous CO analyzers for the AQMD’s ambient air monitoring network. The replacement analyzers are more reliable, less costly to maintain and operate, and consistent with the long-term air monitoring network streamlining process. This action is to execute a contract with Horiba Instruments, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $56,000 for the purchase of eight continuous ambient CO analyzers. Sufficient funds are allocated in the FY 1997-98 Budget.

COMMITTEE:

Administrative, January 23, 1998, Recommended for Approval

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Authorize the Chairman to execute a contract with Horiba Instruments, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $56,000 for the purchase of eight continuous ambient CO analyzers for the AQMD ambient air monitoring network.

Barry R. Wallerstein, D.Env.
Acting Executive Officer

Background

On September 12, 1997, the AQMD released RFQ #2004 to competitively select a vendor(s) from which to purchase eight continuous ambient CO analyzers for the ambient air monitoring network. These analyzers are to replace existing analyzers which have exceeded their normal operational life expectancy. The new analyzers are of improved technology and will require less maintenance, parts, servicing, and be more automated and compatible with computer systems. These analyzers will also ensure that the air monitoring capability is continued and at acceptable levels as required by EPA, CARB and AQMD regulations.

Proposal

This action is to purchase eight continuous ambient CO analyzers from the successful bidder, Horiba Instruments, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $56,000.

Outreach

In accordance with the AQMD’s consulting and contracting policies, a public notice advertising the RFQ and inviting bids will be published in the following publications:

1.	Antelope Valley Press	10.	La Opinion	19.	Precinct Reporter
2.	Black Voice News	11.	La Voz	20.	Rafu Shimpo
3.	Chinese Daily News	12.	Los Angeles Daily News	21.	Riverside Press Enterprise
4.	Eastern Group Publications	13.	Los Angeles Sentinel	22.	San Bernardino Sun
5.	El Chicano	14.	Los Angeles Times	23.	Santa Clarita Signal
6.	Excelsior, The	15.	M/W/DVBE Source	24.	State of California Contracts
7.	Inland Empire Hispanic News	16.	Orange County Register		Register
8.	Inland Valley Daily Bulletin	17.	Palm Springs Desert Sun
9.	Korea Central Daily	18.	Philippine News

Additionally, potential bidders were notified from the Los Angeles County MTA, and Cal Trans Directories of Certified Minority, Women, Disadvantaged and Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises; the Inland Area Opportunity Pages Ethnic/Women Business & Professional Directory; AQMD’s own electronic listing of certified minority vendors; and AQMD Purchasing’s mailing list. Copies of the RFQ were mailed to the Black and Latino Legislative Caucuses and various minority chambers of commerce and business associations; and placed on the Internet at AQMD’s Web site [http://www.aqmd.gov, "Business & Job Opportunities" icon] and AQMD’s bidder’s 24-hour telephone message line (909) 396-2724.

Bid Evaluation

Five bids were received in response to the RFQ when final bidding closed at 2 p.m. on October 14, 1997. Of the five bids, none were from disabled veteran-owned, women-owned, or certified or non-certified minority-owned business enterprises. The Attachment reflects the evaluation of the proposal(s) and the respective ratings/costs for contracts.

Panel Composition

The vendor selected pursuant to this RFQ was selected solely on the basis that it meets the required specifications and had the lowest cost. No evaluation panel is necessary for this type of selection. The verification of specifications and costs was made by two AQMD staff members, both Principal Air Quality Instrument Specialists.

Resource Impacts

Sufficient funds are allocated in the FY 1997-98 Budget as Fixed Asset #17 for the purchase of these continuous ambient CO analyzers.

Attachments

Attachment - Evaluation of Respondents to RFQ #2004

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