Submitted By: Brittany Craven
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Presentation By: Doug Peebles
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Department: Electric Utility
FORMAL TITLE:
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Purchase of four R-Mag circuit breakers from WESCO Distribution for the Shaw Substation in the amount of $177,999
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Operational Excellence
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
Sole source notice was posted on November 29, 2023 (SSP-215)
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BACKGROUND:
Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) is transitioning from spring-charged circuit breakers to R-Mag circuit breakers manufactured by ABB, Inc., and distributed by WESCO. Unlike spring-charged breakers, which require periodic maintenance and are prone to malfunctions, R-Mag breakers feature a maintenance-free magnetic actuator, offering improved reliability and operational efficiency.
The transition was prompted after OEU identified a malfunction in older breakers, leading to the decision to replace all units with R-Mag breakers to enhance safety, reliability, and performance across substations.
On November 29, 2023, OEU requested standardization of ABB R-Mag breakers due to the unavailability of parts for existing breakers. On January 3, 2024, the Procurement and Contracting Officer approved citywide standardization of ABB brand R-Mag breakers.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
This purchase request covers breakers for the Shaw Substation upgrade and completes the replacement of faulty S&C breakers. Staff recommends approval of the purchase of four R-Mag circuit breakers.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funds for the breaker upgrade at Shaw Substation are budgeted in the Fiscal Year 2025-26 capital project account number 332-032-183-531-69-65010. Council approved the purchase of 14 R-Mag Circuit breakers on January 7, 2025, for Airport and Water Plant substations.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These goods were procured in compliance with the City’s Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
The terms and conditions of the City’s standard and approved Purchase Order shall govern this purchase.
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny