CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 26-220, Mobile Broadband Data Services, to Verizon Wireless for an amount not to exceed $208,000 and for a one-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 using laptop computers and through networking various mobile technology systems.
The City procures these services using the State of Illinois cooperative contract with Verizon Wireless. Data devices enrolled in this service have unlimited data usage under these service plans.
The IT Department periodically audits and reviews mobile broadband data services against department needs and the guidelines in the City’s Mobile Device Policy. The table below shows the mobile broadband data service device count by department as of September 5, 2025.
Electric Utility
34
Water Utilities
49
DPW
32
Fire Department
58
Police Department
317
TED
25
Total
515
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 IT 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 acceptable service with few problems.
Staff recommends the award of mobile broadband data services under the State of Illinois cooperative contract to Verizon for the period through October 2, 2027. Staf...
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