CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 23-268, Mobile Broadband Data Services, to Verizon Wireless for an amount not to exceed $336,235 and for a two-year term
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DEPARTMENT: Information Technology
SUBMITTED BY: Jacqueline Nguyen, Director
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
N/A
BACKGROUND:
Mobile broadband data services provide wireless data connections that enable enhanced productivity through the use of laptop computers and through networking various mobile technology systems.
The City procures cellular phone services using the State of Illinois cooperative contract with Verizon Wireless. The contracted services include several options for data service including unlimited plans and lower-cost limited plans with features to pool data usage.
The cellular voice and data service provider markets are very competitive. Service providers offer plans and promotions that change regularly and can contain complex terms and conditions. The Information Technology Department monitors and periodically evaluates alternative service providers.
At this time, staff is not aware of any material change in cost or performance from an alternative vendor that would offset the significant effort and cost of switching service providers. The terms of the current state contract with Verizon allow the City to terminate service at any time without penalty.
DISCUSSION:
Verizon, the current mobile broadband data services vendor, has provided excellent service with minimal problems and has been responsive in troubleshooting any service problems that were identified.
Staff has identified an approved cooperative contract, State of Illinois Contract CMS793372P, through Cellco Partnership Dba Verizon Wireless, for the procurement of Cellular Phone Services.
This contract is valid through October 2, 2025.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Mobile broadband data charges are expensed to the account listed below for a total budget of $119,064 in 2023, of ...
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