CCP 05-27-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Shuman discussed the benefits of moving forward with Johnson Controls along with the payback period for the energy study. Councilmember Bauman questioned if Johnson Controls would provide the City with several options for the proposed equipment upgrades. Ms. Donovan commented the City would be fully involved in the process. She indicated Johnson Controls would be directed by the City on how to proceed with products or equipment. Councilmember Strub inquired if it was wise to tie the City to a vendor for this long through the PDA contract. He requested comment from staff on this matter. Public Works Director Wyffels discussed the benefits and weaknesses of such an arrangement. He believed it would benefit the City to have a partner to assist with the planning and replacement of its fleet and non -fleet assets. He commented Johnson Controls had more expertise regarding energy savings than he did. For this reason, he was in favor of reviewing a study in further detail along with the proposed cost saving measures. He understood there was a cost to the energy audit, but believed there was a cost to not doing the study as well. He found Johnson Controls to be a reputable company in this industry. Councilmember Bauman indicated she could support the detailed study being completed, but did not agree with the PDA. She did want to see the City become more energy efficient. She requested Johnson Control be extremely transparent with the City regarding the contractor percentages. Ms. Donovan further discussed how Johnson Control could stand by and assist the City with the energy study along with the equipment replacement proposed within the PDA. Councilmember Jacobsen asked how long the energy study would take. Ms. Donovan estimated the study would take 90 -120 days to complete. Councilmember Burg did not believe it was practical to complete all of the work within the PDA at once. Mr. Shuman explained Johnson Controls would not replace equipment prematurely. Rather, would follow the City's replacement plan with more energy efficient equipment. He discussed the great relationship Johnson Controls had with the Mounds View School District. Councilmember Strub supported the energy study as it would provide the City with a long -term plan. Acting City Manager Jacobson questioned how the Council wanted to proceed. Mayor Jacobsen stated without the study, the City would not know how to proceed. Councilmember Bauman reported she could support the study. The Council directed staff to move forward bring the energy audit to the Council at the May 27th meeting for approval. Worksession adjourned at 6:14 pm