Agenda Item
iii. E-SPLOST Approval of Control Concepts, Inc. as a Sole Source Vendor for SPLOST VI HVAC Controls Upgrade Projects (Not to exceed $14,415,598)
Summary: Mr. Erick Hoffstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations
Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the award of the SPLOST VI Controls Upgrade Project to Controls Concepts, Inc., as the sole source vendor. The cost of these services will be allocated from multiple SPLOST VI charge codes (See Attachment A).
Why: To approve a lump sum contract award for HVAC Controls upgrades at 52 facilities to Control Concepts, Inc., as a sole source vendor for installing HVAC instrumentation and Controls district-wide. See Attachment A for the facility breakdown.
Details: In 2002, DeKalb County School District standardized Staefa/Talcon, the only allowable control system to be installed in DeKalb County Schools. The original Staefa MS1800 system approved to be installed District-wide is no longer manufactured. The software that executes the Staefa MS1800 system is utilized with the iNTREO product line. Utilizing the iNTREO system will allow the District to maintain compatibility throughout all facilities utilizing the Staefa/Talcon system.
Delta Controls is the exclusive manufacturer of the iNTREO brand of HVAC products nationally. Control Concepts, Inc. is the sole source distributor and installer of the iNTREO system in Georgia. Per the attached supporting documentation, Control Concepts, Inc. is an approved sole source vendor for installing the Staefa/Talcon control system.
The use of a sole source vendor for HVAC Controls will provide 1) Compatibility of Platform and Network Security, 2) Standardization Across Facilities, 3) Enhance Serviceability and Technician Training, and 4) Provide Resilience and System Durability. Further justification is included in Attachment C.
Financial impact: The total contract amount for the SPLOST VI HVAC Controls Upgrade project in the amount of $14,415,598, will be allocated from multiple SPLOST VI cost codes (See Attachment A).
Contact: Mr. Erick Hoffstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1475
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678-676-1483
Effective: Upon Board Approval
Status: Approved by General Counsel
ATTACHMENT C
Justification for choosing Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control Vendor as
the exclusive provider for building automation controls in DeKalb County School District.
This decision aligns with the district’s strategic plan and will provide the following key
benefits:
• Compatibility of Platform and Network Security: One of the primary advantages
of choosing Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control Vendor is the
seamless compatibility of its platform with our existing network infrastructure. The
interoperability of this system ensures efficient communication with the various
systems already in use across our district. Furthermore, Control Concepts, Inc.
Building Automation Control Vendor prioritizes robust security measures, ensuring
our network remains protected from threats. This compatibility minimizes
disruptions, enhances reliability, and fosters a more secure environment for our
operations.
• Standardization Across Schools and Facilities: Standardization is crucial for
streamlining operations and maintenance across our diverse schools and facilities.
Adopting Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control Vendor as the sole
provider ensures a consistent and standardized approach to building automation
controls. With 56 schools and facilities already utilizing this platform, the transition
will be smooth, and the benefits of standardization will be felt district wide. This
consistency facilitates easier management, troubleshooting, and scalability as our
district continues to grow.
• Serviceability and Technician Training: The third key advantage lies in the
serviceability of Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control Vendor. The
vendor not only provides state-of-the-art technology but also invests in
comprehensive training programs for technicians in control systems. Our control
technicians will benefit from specialized training, enhancing their expertise in
managing and troubleshooting Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control
Vendor platform. This increased proficiency will result in quicker issue resolution,
reduced downtime, and improved operational efficiency.
• Resilience and System Durability: The resilience of a building automation control
system is critical for our district's long-term success. Control Concepts, Inc.
Building Automation Control Vendor is renowned for its commitment to system
resilience. Regular updates and maintenance options ensure the system remains
up to date with the latest advancements and security protocols. Additionally, the
controllers' durability in the Control Concepts, Inc. Building Automation Control
Vendor system ensures a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent
replacements and minimizing associated costs.
In conclusion, adopting Control Concepts will align with the district’s strategic plan by
providing a compatible, standardized, serviceable, and resilient solution. This decision
supports our current infrastructure and positions us for future growth and technological
advancements.