RFQ_12401811 Questions and Responses.pdf

CITY OF ATLANTA

DEPARTMENT OF PROCUREMENT

SUITE 1900

55 TRINITY AVENUE, SW

ATLANTA, GA 30303

(404) 546-1000

Excellence in VALUE CREATION through Partnership, Collaboration, and Innovation

Rev. 8.24.23

Andre Dickens Mayor

Jaideep Majumdar Chief Procurement Officer

M E M O R A N D U M

TO: Potential Proponents / Bidders

FROM: Dominique Coachman, Category Specialist

CC: Denise Lewin-Cirilo, Category Lead Brandi Stanley, Category Manager Jean-Paul Courville, Category Director

, Deputy Chief Procurement Officer Jaideep Majumdar, Chief Procurement Officer

RE: Notice of Addendum Memo for RFQ/PS/DWM/2312-1240181 Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Pilot Program

DATE: 3/13/2024

Dear Potential Proponents / Bidders:

Attached is one (1) copy of Addendum Number No. 1 which is hereby made a part of the above referenced project.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

This Addendum No. 1 form is a part of the Request for Qualifications Q modifies the original solicitation package as noted below and is issued to incorporate the following:

Addendum Memo

Rev. 8.24.23

Revision: Proposal due date has been changed to 3/25/2024

Revision: Responded to eventy (70) uestions and esponses.

Revision: Upload Form 7 to solicitation

The Bid/Proposal due date HAS been modified and Proposals are due on 3/25/2024 and should be time stamped into the system no later than 2:00 P.M. EST.

**All other pertinent information is to remain unchanged**

All questions and inquiries concerning this project should be directed to Category Specialist, Dominique Coachman via e-mail: Dcoachman@atlantaga.gov.

Attachment(s)

CITY OF ATLANTA

DEPARTMENT OF PROCUREMENT

SUITE 1900

55 TRINITY AVENUE, SW

ATLANTA, GA 30303

(404) 546-1000

Excellence in VALUE CREATION through Partnership, Collaboration, and Innovation

Rev. 9.25.23

Andre Dickens Mayor

Jaideep Majumdar Chief Procurement Officer

Project Number & Title: RFQ/PS/DWM/2312-1240181 Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Pilot Program Date: 3/13/2024

Questions and Responses The following questions and /or clarifications were requested by various proponents:

1. Question Does Atlanta have any preferred companies for the installation of the meters?

Response The City is currently soliciting meter installation services as part of an active procurement so there are not preferred companies at this time.

Vendor responses should include provisions for meter installation for the pilot.

2. Question Are there any SBE requirements for the installation?

Response The SBE subcontracting goal of 20% for this project can be met in consideration of the total scope of work and total contract value for this project. The prime proponent must demonstrate and document substantial Good Faith Efforts to provide subcontracting opportunities for certified City of Atlanta SBEs.

3. Question What is the submittal process on the website? Will we be submitting one document, or will it be broken down into the section reflected on the RFP?

Response Please refer to the Contents of Qualification that specifies the information required to be contained in a proposal.

Questions and Responses

Rev. 9.25.23

4. Question Can an extension of the bid due date be provided?

Response We anticipate an updated due date for proposals to be March 25, 2024.

5. Question Are there any bonding requirements for the pilot program?

Response There is no payment nor performance bond required for the pilot program.

6. Question What quantity/size does the City want for residential/commercial meters?

Response Up to 100 meters is defined in the Statement of Work. The mix between residential and commercial meters will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City. .

7. Question What are the current lay lengths of the commercial meters?

Response Commercial meters and their installation will determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

8. Question What are the conditions of the meters? Connections (setters or straight pipe)? Depth of pits? Service Line Material? Lid material?

Response The condition of meters, appurtenances, depths of pits, service line material and lid material will vary.

9. Question Does the City have meter locations for the pilot to perform a preinstallation survey?

Response Meter locations and services addresses will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

10. Question To better ensure the receipt of quality responses that are complete and sufficient in detail, will the City consider an extension of the deadline to April 12th?

Response We anticipate an updated due date for proposals to be March 25, 2024.

Rev. 9.25.23

11. Question Can the City please provide a map for preferred or potential pilot locations, to allow our engineers to run RF propagation as well as look at potential infrastructure locations and existing network coverage options for pilots?

We also respectfully request system maps to determine the best installation locations for pressure and leak detection sensors. Can GIS information be provided for additional sensor locations? If possible, we are seeking hydrant locations, pipe types, pressure zone boundaries, and elevations.

Response Meter locations and services addresses will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City. The pilot sites for AMI could be

Vendors should provide information on the ability of their solutions for pressure monitoring and leak detection.

12. Question Can the City provide the location, quantities, and sizes for the commercial meters that are to be included in the pilot?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

13. Question Does the City have a target number of pilots that are to be awarded from this RFQ?

Response Up to two pilots.

14. Question How will the City be billed for the products and services provided via the pilot program?

Response each pilot will not exceed more than $100,000. All response.

15. Question Please confirm that the City is seeking a 6-month pilot fully at no charge from the vendor.

Response The City is seeking a 6-month pilot. However, it is the responsibility of the vendor to determine if there is a charge or no charge to the City for the pilot equipment and services.

16. Question Will the City incur the cost of removal of product after the pilot? If not, please provide further detail?

Rev. 9.25.23

Response Product installed during the pilot will become property of the City and used until the pilot is completed. If the product is no longer being used, it will be replaced with equipment the City uses.

17. Question Is the City requesting the installation of pressure and leak detection devices that are not part of the meter or the AMI radio device but that can be part of

Response This procurement is specifically for the meter and AMI and does not include installation of pressure and leak detection devices. If other devices can run on the same AMI network, the vendor should make the City aware of these features and capabilities in their proposal.

18. Question Can the City provide details regarding any standards that must be met regarding unions, Prevailing Wages, and MBE?

Response The City of Atlanta Small Business Opportunity (SBO) Program is applicable to this project solicitation. Subcontracting opportunities and goals for certified City of Atlanta SBEs only (not MBEs) are applicable to this solicitation.

19. Question Is bonding a requirement for the Questions Regarding RFQ/PS/DWM/2312-1240181 Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Piot Program? If so, please provide details of what type of bonding would be required to complete the pilot project.

Response There are no payment or performance bonds required to complete the pilot project.

20. Question When does the City/Department of Water Management plan to release answers to questions and through what format?

Response Once all questions have been provided an answer.

21. Question #3.2.2.1.2 The last sentence seems to be incomplete; can you please elaborate if anything is missing here?

Response section should be removed.

22. Question #3.1.2.1.2 Form 7 Can this form be provided? It was not included in the RFQ documents.

Rev. 9.25.23

Response Yes, the form will be uploaded.

23. Question A description of these goals could not be found in the

RFQ documents; can the City please provide this?

Response Yes. A description will be provided.

24. Question Will Department of Watershed Management consider extending the deadline for an additional 2 weeks?

Response We anticipate an updated due date for proposals to be March 25, 2024.

25. Question Does DWM have a preference in water meter technology (Ultrasonic vs Mechanical)?

Response The City has no preference in meter technology. Please include in your response the meter technology proposed for the pilot.

26. Question Is DWM at liberty to inform us of how many Vendors will be selected for the Pilot?

Response The City expects to select two vendors to each perform a pilot. Based on evaluation of both pilots, the City will select and procure a single vendor for full scale deployment.

27. Question When can we expect an amendment to the RFQ with answers to the questions?

Response Once all questions have been provided an answer.

28. Question Can you please clarify what the expected/preferred length of this RFQ response is?

SERVICES AND DELIVERABLES (MAXIMUM 25 PAGES) and lists all of the requirements under that section, which seems to indicate that the entire response should only be 25 pages.

Response The 25-page limit is specifically for the Scope of Work, Section 3.

Requested Services and Deliverables. The 25-page limit does not include appendices and other required information as defined in the Contents of Qualification.

Rev. 9.25.23

29. Question Can you please clarify what the expected/preferred length of this RFQ response is?

suggested page maximum, and 3.2.5 Project Management does not have a suggested page maximum.

Response Vendors are encouraged to provide enough detail to explain their solution in their proposed response for sections 3.2.4 and 3.2.5. Additional information can be provided in the appendix.

30. Question Can you please clarify what the timeline is to implement the COMPASS MDM, and is it the intention to implement, and train staff prior to the AMI pilot beginning?

Response The AMI pilot will be running concurrent with the implementation of the MDM, with the final phase of the AMI pilot being implementation with the MDM.

31. Question In the "Contents of Qualification" document it states the following requirements in Vol. II;

3.1.2.1 Forms attached to this RQ at Part 4: This information should be included in Vol. II 3.1.2.1.2 Form 7 - Prohibited Sources' Ethics Pledge I am unable to find form 7 in the RFQ. Can you please provide or clarify whether this is required or not??

Response Form 7 will be uploaded.

32. Question If there are any addendums for RFQ/PS/DWM/2312-1240181, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Pilot Program, can you please direct them to me and add me as the contact for any meter related requests in the future?

Response Any addendums will be provided for this RFQ via the procurement website.

33. Question Will Atlanta grant a due date extension for the Advanced Meter Infrastructure RFQ?

Response We anticipate an updated due date for proposals to be March 25, 2024.

Rev. 9.25.23

34. Question Would the department clarify if the 25 page limit inclusive of appendices?

Response The 25-page limit is specifically for the Scope of Work, Section 3.

Requested Services and Deliverables. The 25-page limit does not include appendices and other required information as defined in the Contents of Qualification.

35. Question What are

Response not applicable to this project solicitation. The City of Atlanta Small Business Opportunity (SBO) Program is applicable to this project solicitation.

Subcontracting opportunities and the 20% goal for certified City of Atlanta SBEs only (not MBEs or FBEs) are applicable to this solicitation.

36. Question Would the department please define All-In-One smart meter?

Response An All-in-One smart meter is defined as a meter which includes the register as one single unit. It could also include additional sensors beyond quantity.

37. Question How many pilot meters are vault set, behind locked gates or indoor, how many are pit set?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

38. Question Can the department please clarify the condition, material, and planned dispensation of existing pit lids?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

39. Question Will the City be providing a warehouse and staging space for the pilot?

Response Any requirements and expectations, such as a warehouse and staging response.

40. Question If so, will there be parking available for installer vehicles during the day/fleet vehicles during the night?

Rev. 9.25.23

Response Any requirements and expectations, such as parking for installer vehicles during the day and fleet vehicles during the night, should be identified response.

41. Question Will there be space available to be used for office work? Wifi access?

Response Any requirements and expectations, such as space available for office work and WiFi response.

42. Question What is the breakdown of meter sizes and quantity of each to be replaced during the pilot?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

43. Question Plastic/composite lids will be required for proper endpoint installation, will this be provided, or will we be providing lids?

Response The vendor will be providing the plastic/composite lids required for proper end point installation.

44. Question If replacement meter boxes are required will this be provided, or will we provide boxes?

Response The vendor will be providing replacement meter boxes.

45. Question general idea of where the north and south pilot areas are located?

Response Meter locations and services addresses will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

46. Question Will the entire pilot be released for installation at once, or will a blackout schedule be followed?

Response The City anticipates that the meters for the pilot be installed at once.

47. Question What notification will be expected for pilot accounts?

Rev. 9.25.23

Response As described in the Scope of Work, Section 3C, (p), included in your proposal the description of the proposed method to support customer engagement, such as notification of meter replacement.

48. Question Will a customer portal solution be deployed during the pilot?

Response As described in Scope of Work, Section 3C,(p), CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT, a customer portal solution is the pilot vendors

Describe the proposed method to support customer engagement, such as notification of meter replacement, and providing secure online access to customers to review their consumption information. Residential and commercial accounts that are selected to participate in the AMI pilot will continue to receive bills throughout the pilot period

49. Question Are large meters installed in vaults?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

50. Question What is the average age of the meters we will be replacing?

Response The average age of meters to be replaced is between 14 and 17 years old.

51. Question Is there any special permitting or licensing we should be aware of?

Response No special permitting or licensing will be needed unless required by the Vendor solution.

52. Question Will any installations require traffic control?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

53. Question Would the City provide Form 7 Pledge or confirm it is not required for this RFQ?

Rev. 9.25.23

Response Yes. Form 7 will be uploaded in the required submittal in the solicitation.

54. Question Is the Letter of Transmittal included in the suggested 6 page max for the Executive Summary?

Response Yes. Additional information can be submitted as an appendix.

55. Question Is the suggested max for project approach 4 pages?

Response A 25-page limit is specifically for the Scope of Work, Section 3. Requested Services and Deliverables. Any additional information can be submitted in the appendix.

56. Question What type of connector is on the existing meters?

Response The existing meters have a coupled cable connector.

57. Question Is the city seeking that all residential meters are all in one integrated with remote shut-off and other sensors?

Response The City will evaluate vendor responses for residential meters that have remote shut-off capability. If other sensors are included in this meter, this information should be included in the vendor response.

58. Question Atlanta references a full scale deployment numerous times throughout the RFQ. Can you please clarify how long the full AMI deployment would likely be (ie. 3, 4, 5 year deployment?)

Response Atlanta anticipates a full AMI deployment could take up to five years, possibly longer.

59. Question Can you please provide the following: (we do not see them in the attachments)

3.1.2.1.2. Form 7

3.1.2.1.4. Statement of Proponent Qualifications.

Response Yes. Form 7 will be uploaded in the required submittal in the solicitation.

Rev. 9.25.23

60. Question Is it the intention of Atlanta to have staff trained to install the meters and endpoints for the pilot, or the bidder have a sub install the pilot hardware?

Response Vendor responses should include meter installation for the pilot.

61. Question not?

Response Yes. Form 7 will be uploaded in the required submittal in the solicitation.

62. Question Is Atlanta wanting a free pilot:

3.1.2.2.1. Cost Proposal Form (Not Applicable)

If not, please provide details on when we would be expected to provide costs

Response The City is seeking a 6-month pilot. However, it is the responsibility of the vendor to determine if there is a charge or no charge to the City for the pilot equipment and services.

exceed more than $100,000.

63. Question Do we need to include all sub of subcontractors?

Response All certified City of Atlanta SBEs that will be utilized and contributing towards the 20% SBE subcontracting goal must be identified and documented on the SBO Form 3-Subcontractor Utilization Plan as part of the Appendix A forms of the project solicitation package.

64. Question Are

Response meter and AMI solutions should include the ability to integrate . If this requires any Application Program

Interfaces (APIs) this

65. Question Can you please provide exactly where in the North and South the pilot will be implemented?

Response The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

Rev. 9.25.23

66. Question Will Atlanta allow use of its vertical assets for Infrastructure? If so, can you please provide a list of assets?

Response The City would like to minimize use of any vertical assets for the AMI solution, thus a list of these assets will not be provided at this time.

67. Question Can you please provide a timeline of pilot implementation, shortlist, etc?

Response The pilot implementations should start mid-April and commencement of meter deployment in early May.

68. Question It is our understanding that COMPASS will be the MDM of choice at Atlanta. Can you please confirm this?

Response Yes, COMPASS will be the MDM of choice for the City of Atlanta.

69. Question Can you provide more information on the scope of this pilot (number of meters, etc.)?

Response 100 meters are requested in the scope of this pilot. The mix between residential and commercial meter locations, services addresses, quantities, and sizes will be determined jointly between the selected vendor(s) and the City.

70. Question Are there any SBE requirements for the installation?

Response Please direct this question to OCC, this is not within the scope of risk management.

Required Submittal (FORM 7)

Rev. 9.25.23

Prohibited Sources’ (Contractors & Vendors) Ethics Pledge

To assure public confidence, I am committed to promoting the integrity of the City of Atlanta government.

1. I will avoid situations involving city officials and employees that may give the perception of an impropriety. When uncertain about the right thing to do, I will ask the Ethics Office for advice.

2. I will not offer money or a personal gift, meal, ticket, travel, entertainment, or other thing of value to city officials or employees unless the gift falls within one of the 11 exceptions to the ban on gratuities per City of Atlanta Code Section 2-801.

3. I will disclose any matter in which I have a financial or personal interest as defined in concerning any City of Atlanta bid, proposal, contract, or subcontract, and disclose if my immediate family, employer, prospective employer, a related business entity, has financial or personal interests with the City. I agree to file a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Report concerning any decision in which I have a conflict of interest.

4. I will file any conflict of interest or disclosure forms when appropriate.

I (print name) acknowledge that I have received and read this pledge and agree to abide by the applicable provisions of the City’s Code of Ethics. I understand that the most current copy of the code is at the Ethics Office website and that I can seek advice from the Ethics Office on how to avoid a conflict of interest and comply with the Code of Ethics.

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