HomeMy WebLinkAboutA027 - Resolution awarding contract to Electric Engineering Co., of Des Moines, IA, for the Access Control Upgrades at the Power PlantITEM #:27
DATE:09-22-26
DEPT:ELEC
SUBJECT:ACCESS CONTROL UPGRADES AT THE POWER PLANT
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Power Plant and Electric Administration building security access system server needs to
be replaced. This server is used to manage the keyless electronic access control system for
these facilities.
When researching the server update, staff learned of several features that are available if the
access control system software is also updated. Examples of desired features are: enhanced
integration between the camera surveillance system and access control system, mobile
credentials, and easily customizable access profiles for contractors and repeat visitors. The
current access system cannot accommodate the various types of cards/access/contractors in
the plant, nor the large number of contractors that need access.
The proposed access control system would give the Power Plant the ability to program
contractor access to function one way during day hours and change at night to restrict access
to specific areas as necessary. This is a useful feature because, depending on the project,
some contractors work nights and weekends in addition to normal day hours. Staff also
currently has difficulty getting the expired security cards returned when contractors are
finished. The new system has the ability to text an access credential to a contractor. The
contractor uses their phone as the access card, similar to a "tap to pay" feature on mobile
phones. The access software update was included in the server bid documents.
Staff anticipates being able to integrate this system into the new Ames Municipal Energy
Center (AMEC) facility once it is complete. Additionally, staff will explore the ability to use the
system to assist with access management for contractors working on the AMEC project while
construction is underway.
On August 10, 2026, an Invitation to Bid was posted to AmesBids by Purchasing. On August
28, 2026, four bids were received as shown in the table below:
BIDDER BID AMOUNT
Electronic Engineering Co.
Des Moines, IA $48,747.22
Communication Innovators
Pleasant Hill, IA $61,733.74
Mechdyne Corporation
Marshalltown, IA $68,915.63
Communications Engineering Co.
Hiawatha, IA $70,453.78
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Staff evaluated the bids and determined the low bid from Electronic Engineering Co.,
Des Moines, IA, is acceptable.
Funding will come from the adopted FY 2026/27 Power Plant operating budget. There is
$50,000 budgeted for these services.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Electric Engineering Co., of Des Moines, IA, for the Access Control
Upgrades at the Power Plant, in the amount of $48,747.22.
2. Award the contract to another bidder.
3. Reject all bids and direct staff to rebid.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The existing plant will be in operation for many years and there will be staff and
contractors that need access. Updating the software and obtaining a new security
server will provide continued security and more features to allow staff to customize
access and expand the system when the Ames Municipal Energy Center is constructed.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative
No. 1, as described above.
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