HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Report - May 6, 1998 (76)CITY OF LODI COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
AGENDA TITLE: Specifications and Advertisement for Bids for Wood Pole Testing Program
MEETING DATE: May 6, 1998
SUBMITTED BY: Electric Utility Director
RECOMMENDED ACTION: That the City Council approve the specifications for a wood pole testing contract
and authorize advertisement for bids.
BACKGROUND: The Electric Utility Department has approximately 5,300 wood poles in use. From
1990 through 1994 the Electric Utility Department utilized a wood pole testing
contractor to test 4,783 poles, all wood poles five years and older were tested.
This will be the first year of a planned six year program. The favorable results obtained from utilizing a contractor
for this necessary electric utility function supports continuation of wood pole testing in this fashion. The Electric
Utility Department objective is to have all wood utility poles tested for external and /or internal decay and to have
chemical treatment installed on the exterior and /or interior of the poles to prolong their useful life.
External treatment consist of a chemical product being applied 18 inches below ground level to two inches above
ground level. Internal treatment is applied by drilling a 7/8 inch hole and inserting the internal treatment canister
and a treated wood plug.
Sound equipment will insure reliable service to all of our customers and provide a significantly safer environment
for the public and utility service employees. Pole testing is important in identifying untreatable poles which need
to be replaced, and replacing decayed poles before they fall due to wind. Treating the poles to prevent decay
saves exorbitant costs associated with premature replacements, power outages, emergency callouts, damage
claims for personal property, and all other costs associated with unscheduled power outages. Fewer unscheduled
power interruptions will increase reliability, customer service and productivity by providing better planning of crew
time and allowing more time for scheduled projects and system maintenance.
In order to maintain continuity in the testing program, the specifications have been prepared with an option to
extend the agreement on a year-to-year basis, at the City's discretion, for a maximum of three years.
FUNDING: Originally budgeted 1997-98
Budgeted Fund: 16.0-604.10
Budgeted Amount: $25,000
Funding Approval:
Vicky McAthie, Ffnance Director
Prepared by: Carl Lindstrom, EU Superintendent
ANV/CUkf
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Approved
H. Dixdn Flynn
City Manager
Alan N. Vallow
Electric Utility Director