Submitted By: Laurie Hornberger
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Presentation By: Sean Lanier
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Department: Water & Sewer
FORMAL TITLE:
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Purchase of 300 manhole rings and covers from Fortiline Waterworks, LLC to support routine maintenance, repair, and replacement within the wastewater collection system for $280,613
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Operational Excellence
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
Bid released to the public on 1/29/2026
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BACKGROUND:
The Water Resources Department currently maintains approximately 7,700 manholes in the wastewater collection system. Manhole rings and covers provide secure access to sewer infrastructure while protecting the system from damage, debris, and unauthorized entry.
The ductile iron hinged covers are used in areas subject to heavy traffic loading and where locking mechanisms are required. The composite covers provide a lightweight, corrosion-resistant option that improves crew safety and reduces theft risk due to their non-metal construction.
Inventory items are posted for public competition on the Advanced Utility Resource and Supply, Inc.’s (AURSI) bidding website to obtain the lowest prices on material purchases. Generally, awards are based on the lowest responsive and responsible bidder in each category. In certain instances, awards are made to multiple vendors to ensure the City obtains the best value based on pricing and other conditions.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
On January 29, 2026, the City issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) No.: WRS/260430 via AURSI for the purchase of 300 manhole rings and covers. Bids were received on February 5, 2026, and Fortiline Waterworks, LLC was found to be the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.
Staff recommends approval of the purchase of these manhole rings and covers, which would maintain adequate inventory, enabling field crews to promptly replace damaged or failing manhole components and complete system maintenance without delay.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funding is available for Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget in account string 455-030-300-535-53-46010 in the amount $280,612.50.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These goods were procured in compliance with the City’s Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
N/A. The City’s Standard Purchase Order Terms & Conditions will be utilized for the procurement of these goods.
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny