SUBJECT
title
Authorizing the City Manager for the selection of the three (3) most qualified engineering firms in response to the FY25-098 Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for professional engineering services for the design of a new Elevated Storage Tank (EST), and authorizing staff to begin negotiations with the highest-ranked firms in accordance with Texas Government Code §2254.004.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
N/A
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo Utilities Department issued a Request for Qualifications for professional engineering services to design a new Elevated Storage Tank (EST) to increase system pressure, enhance water reliability, and ensure compliance with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) storage requirements.
A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was publicly advertised on September 17, 2025 in accordance with State and local procurement requirements. A total of 6 firms submitted Statements of Qualifications prior to the deadline on October23, 2025.
A selection committee consisting of staff from the Utilities Department Division evaluated each submittal based on the following criteria:
•Experience with Elevated Storage Tank Design
•Qualifications of Key Personnel
•Project Approach and Understanding
•Experience with Similar Municipal Utility Projects
•Reference and Past Performance
•Proximity and Availability of Firm
Following the evaluation process, the selection committee ranked the following firms as the Top Three (3) Most Qualified Engineering Firms for the Elevated Storage Tank design project:
1.Tank Industry
2. Freese Nichols
3. Ardurra
In compliance with Texas Government Code §2254.004 (Professional Services Procurement Act), negotiations will begin with the highest-ranked firm to establish a fair and reasonable contract. If negotiations are unsuccessful, staff will formally end negotiations and proceed to the next most qualified firm.
A contract for engineering design services will be brought back to City Council for approval once negotiations are complete.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Moderate
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Policy 6.5.7 Continue to implement the existing water conservation program
Policy 7.2.4 Increase access to safe water
Summary of alignment:
This agenda item update aligns with Viva Laredo’s Comprehensive Plan goals and policies addressing water quality by replacing aged water lines.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Approval of Motion
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: Yes
Source of Funds: 2022 Water Revenue Bond
Account #: 557-9879-535-9301
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: No
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this action. Funding for engineering design services will be included in a future agenda item once a contract amount is negotiated and finalized. Once a contract amount is negotiated we will use 2022 Water Revenue Bond, Account #557-9879-535-9301, project ID:WP2118.