Technology Services recommends the purchase of sixty-nine (69) Cisco network switches and accessories to Netsync Network Solutions, Inc. This purchase will be based on Texas Department of Information Resources contracts DIR-TSO-4167 for Cisco Devices and DIR-CPO-4430 for ENET Optics for an estimated cost of $600,205. This purchase will be funded from the Technology Services Replacement Fund.
These network switches provide data and voice connectivity to computers, phones, and wireless access points throughout City facilities.
This purchase, if approved, will be the first of a three phased approach to replace our aging switching infrastructure before it becomes unsupported by the manufacturer at the end of 2025. The 3 phased approach will result in staff replacing one third of the device fleet each year prior to the designated End of Life date, without significantly impacting the staff’s ability to support other planned activities.
If the City of Plano does not approve this purchase, the staff will be required to refresh the fleet in a two year phase approach. This would negatively affect the staff’s ability to support other planned activities, and may require additional staffing augmentation services. Technology Services would not be able to ensure reliable and secure communications across its voice and data networks as the current equipment is aging and is more prone to failure.
The City is authorized to purchase from the State Contract list pursuant to Chapter 271 Subchapter D of the Texas Local Government Code and by doing so satisfies any State Law requiring local governments to seek competitive bids for items. (DIR Contract No. DIR-TSO-4167 and DIR-CPO-4430 / City of Plano Internal Contract No. 2022-0592-O) Purchasing researched multiple cooperative contracts seeking additional vendors who could provide the needed products. Quotes were requested from five (5) vendors. One (1) vendor submitted a "No Bid" and three (3) vendors submitted quotes based on DIR cooperative contracts. The quote from Netsync Network Solutions, Inc. was determined to be the best value for the City.