Title
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AMENDMENT OF A CONTRACT WITH LIGHTOWER FIBER NETWORKS, LLC. TO INCREASE BANDWIDTH CAPABILITY FOR THE CITY’S VELOCITY BROADBAND SERVICES; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Executive Summary: Velocity Broadband’s current internet provider contract with Lightower Fiber Networks (formerly Fiber Technologies Networks, LLC) established initial bandwidth service pricing and pricing to upgrade service bandwidth as customer demands would require. The broadband staff now seeks to execute those upgrades to provide increased bandwidth to existing and future customers.
Body
Legislative History
Resolution No. 15-96, passed June 23, 2015, authorized the City Manager to enter into a contract with Fiber Technologies Networks, LLC for the provision of Internet service as required for the implementation of the City’s Broadband Services Project.
Purpose & Explanation
Velocity Broadband is currently contracted with the Lightower Fiber Networks (formerly Fiber Technologies Networks, LLC) at $1,000 per month for internet service. As the City’s customer base grows and businesses continue to sign up for service we are receiving requests for both more bandwidth and dedicated service provisions.
With the need for expanded service continuing to be a factor, staff wishes to expand and upgrade our current service to 1GIG sooner than later. Upgrading to a 1GIG service will costs an additional $1,600 per month for a total contract price of $2,600. This pricing agreement will be for a three (3) year term.
Timing Considerations
Upon authorization to proceed by the City Council, the administration will execute a purchase order for upgraded service.
Fiscal Impact
Currently Budgeted
Supplemental Appropriation Required
X Appropriation Not Required (Broadband Fund)
Recommendation
Suggested Action
Staff recommends that City Council approve this Resolution, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract upgrade with the Lightower Fiber Networks, LLC, 80 Central Street, Boxborough, MA 01719 for the expansion of Velocity Broadband’s internet services in the amount of $2,600 per month. Staff seeks emergency legislation to expedite the upgrade.
Submitted by,
Jane Howington, City Manager
Frank J. Comeriato, Jr. Asst. City Manager-Operations
Bill Hilbish, IS Manger