AGENDA TITLE:
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Adopt a Resolution Waiving Bid Process and Authorizing Purchase of Power Press and Head Assemblies from DMC Power and Appropriating Funds in the Amount of $75,000, for a Total Not to Exceed Amount of $125,000 (EU)
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MEETING DATE:
March 18, 2026
PREPARED BY:
Jasminder Singh, Engineering Operational Technology Supervisor
recommendation
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Adopt a resolution waiving the bid process and authorizing the purchase of a power press and head assemblies from DMC Power and appropriating funds in the amount of $75,000 for a total not to exceed amount of $125,000.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Lodi Electric Utility (LEU) utilizes a range of bus and conductor sizes that supply power throughout the utility’s infrastructure and the City.
Historically, these connections have been bolt-on equipment and welded joints, of which the bolt-on connections are susceptible to loosening over time resulting in hot spots - areas where component temperatures are abnormally high due to loose connections. Welded joints for these specialized applications are no longer a common process. To enhance reliability and improve fitting-to-fitting performance, LEU has transitioned to press-on connections in several applications.
All inventoried items for this type of work - both currently stocked and planned for future procurement - are sourced from DMC Power, a manufacturer specializing in press-on connectors and hardware.
LEU has previously borrowed the required press tools, head assemblies, and dies for various bus and conductor sizes. However, availability can be limited when other utilities have the equipment checked out, creating delays for both planned and unplanned work. To mitigate this risk, LEU is requesting to purchase the press tools, assemblies, and dies that align with the most commonly used sizes. For less common configurations, DMC Power has confirmed that borrow-use arrangements will continue to be supported. This approach reduces cost while ensuring readiness for the majority of LEU projects.
In accordance with Lodi Municipal Code, Section 3.20.070, DMC Power has provided consistently prompt support, with a regional office and representatives located in Roseville. Their proximity allows LEU to quickly obtain needed equipment-often in advance of scheduled work, and in some cases, on the same day with only a short drive - all factors in the best interest of the City.
The Fiscal Year 2025/26 budget includes $50,000 for this equipment. When originally requested, LEU did not have a comprehensive quote available. With the quote now in hand totaling $98,000.61, included as Exhibit 1, LEU is requesting an appropriation of funds in the amount of $75,000 for a total not-to-exceed authorization of $125,000 for this purchase to address the purchase, added sales tax, freight and any cost variances that may occur between the time the quote was received and the actual order is placed.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Not-to-Exceed $125,000.
FUNDING AVAILABLE:
An appropriation in the amount of $75,000 is requested from Fund 500 to 50199000.77030 to increase the already budgeted amount of $50,000 for the equipment to a total not to exceed amount of $125,000.