Title
Resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with SmartWAVE Technologies to build a Community Wi-Fi Network in the Old Town area of South San Francisco in the amount not to exceed $709,893 and a total project budget of $780,882 and authorize the City Manager to execute the professional services agreement, including utilization of the Tucson, Arizona cooperative purchasing contract.
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WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the digital divide between those with reliable internet and those who were under-served or unconnected; and
WHEREAS, staff released a Requested for Proposal in search of a consultant to conduct a Broadband and Wireless Feasibility Study; and
WHEREAS, on February 19, 2022 the consultant presented the Feasibility Study to the City Council and recommended the City construct a free pilot Public Wi-Fi Network in under-served areas of the City; and
WHEREAS, per SSF Municipal Code Section 4.04.040(b), the City may “piggyback” off the existing Tucson, Arizona cooperative purchasing agreement thus allowing for it to contract with SmartWAVE Technologies to purchase and install the equipment at a pre-negotiated rate; and
WHEREAS, staff selected SmartWAVE Technologies to construct the Wi-Fi network as they are experienced in creating open Wi-Fi networks for cities such as Oakland, San Jose and San Mateo County; and
WHEREAS, SmartWAVE Technologies will install 105 Wi-Fi access point on City and PG&E poles. The network will extend 117 City blocks and provide internet service to over 12,000 residents in Old Town, Districts 3 and 5; and
WHEREAS, the free Community Wi-Fi Network will provide basic internet service to low-to-moderate income families in South San Francisco; and
WHEREAS, providing this service would benefit residents without internet access to search for jobs, pay bills online and connect to online classes.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of South San Francisco that it hereby:
1. Approves the professional services agreement with SmartWAVE Technologies, LLC., a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A, for the purchase and installation of Wi-fi equipment on PG&E and City poles, in the amount not to exceed $709,893.
2. Authorizes a total project budget of $780,882 inclusive of a 10% contingency, and authorizes the City Manager to utilize the City of Tucson Cooperative Purchasing Agreement.
3. Authorizes the City Manager to execute the services agreement in substantially the same form as Exhibit A, and to make any revisions, amendments, or modifications deemed necessary to carry out the intent of this Resolution which do not materially alter or increase the City’s obligations thereunder, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.
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