STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Government Performance and Financial Management
AGENDA DATE: October 28, 2020
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): All
DEPARTMENT: Office of Procurement Services
EXECUTIVE: Elizabeth Reich
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize a two-year master agreement for the purchase of deaf-hearing communication devices for the Office of Equity and Inclusion and other City departments with sComm, Inc. through the U.S. General Services Administration Advantage cooperative agreement - Estimated amount of $134,100 - Financing: U.S. Department of Treasury - Coronavirus Relief Funds
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BACKGROUND
This action does not encumber funds; the purpose of a master agreement is to establish firm pricing for goods, for a specific term, which are ordered on an as needed basis according to annual budgetary appropriations. The estimated amount is intended as guidance rather than a cap on spending under the agreement, so that actual need combined with the amount budgeted will determine the amount spent under this agreement.
This master agreement will allow for the purchase of deaf-hearing communication devices for the Office of Equity and Inclusion and other City departments. The communication device enables face-to-face communication between deaf or hard of hearing people and hearing people, without the usual barriers. The devices utilize two small computers that each feature a keyboard and a split screen to show the typed conversations of the two participants, in real time, during a face-to-face meeting.
During the current COVID-19 crisis the communication devices will enhance the ability to communicate more readily and more effectively, with a communication range of approximately 300 feet which maintains a safe social distance with persons who are hearing impaired. They will be used to facilitate conversations with City staff and customers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
The units will be initially purchased by the ...
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