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Agreement for Water and Sewer Cost of Service Study <br />May 20, 2025 <br />Page 2 <br />5 <br />0 <br />2 <br />9 <br />Since the adoption of the current rate plan, Water Resources has undertaken a number <br />of major infrastructure projects recommended in its master plan documents, including <br />the rehabilitation of several wells, replacement of water pipeline, the addition of a new <br />well, and the implementation of a smart water meter program. However, additional <br />capital improvements, including the emerging need of PFAS treatment facilities, as well <br />as the increased costs of operations and maintenance, require a review of the current <br />rate structure and enterprise finances to determine how to achieve these needs. <br />On January 30, 2025, the Public Works Agency released Request for Proposals (RFP) <br />No. 25-013 (Exhibit 1) for qualified firms to provide long-term financial planning and <br />water and sewer rate study services. The RFP was advertised on the City’s online bid <br />management and publication system, PlanetBids, with proposals due on February 27, <br />2025. A summary of system records of vendor participation and results is as follows: <br />1099 Vendors Notified <br />46 Santa Ana Vendors Notified <br />25 Vendors Downloaded the Bid Packet <br />4 Proposals Received <br />0 Proposals Received from Santa Ana Vendors <br />Staff recommends awarding an agreement (Exhibit 2) to Robert D. Niehaus, Inc. (RDN) <br />to provide long-term financial planning and water and sewer rate study services. RDN’s <br />proposal demonstrates the firm has the necessary technical expertise and capacity to <br />complete the scope of work identified in the RFP. RDN has developed financial plans <br />and rate studies for myriad utilities, both locally and nationally, and is familiar with City <br />operations, having previously worked with the Water Resources Division to review its <br />financial plans. <br />ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT <br />There is no environmental impact associated with the action. <br />FISCAL IMPACT <br />Funding is available in the FY 24-25 budget and funding for subsequent fiscal years will <br />be included in the proposed budgets for City Council consideration. <br />Fiscal Year Accounting <br />Unit – <br />Account # <br />Fund <br />Description <br />Accounting Unit, <br />Account <br />Description <br />Amount <br />Contract (3-Year Term) <br />2024-25 06017645- <br />62300 <br />Water Water <br />Admin/Engineering, <br />Contract Services – <br />Professional <br />$20,000