Background:
The Mechanical/Chemical Building and the Process Building at the Sawgrass Water Treatment Plant (WTP) were constructed in 2000. The Operations and Maintenance Building at the Sawgrass Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) was constructed in 1985. While these facilities have been routinely maintained, the existing fire alarm systems are over 20 years old, require frequent service repairs, and were recently recommended for replacement by the Fire Department following inspections. To address these recommendations, improve system reliability, ensure compliance with current fire safety standards, and enhance overall facility safety a Capital Improvement Project was created.
On November 14, 2023, the City Commission approved Project Agreement No. PA-23-031-HE with Hillers Electrical Engineering, Inc. (Hillers) to provide design, permitting, and bidding services of the Water Treatment Plant Fire Alarm System Upgrades project. The proposed improvements include installation of new control panels, smoke detectors, and duct detectors integrated into a modern, fully coordinated fire alarm system.
On November 21, 2025, Bid No. 26-02-10-CM was issued for the Water Treatment Plant Fire Alarm System Upgrades. Following evaluations by the Purchasing Division, Utilities Department, and Hillers, and under a separate Agenda Item Request, award of the contract is recommended to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, Cosugas, LLC. A separate agenda item will be presented at the April 14, 2026, City Commission Meeting to award this construction contract.
As the project transitions into the construction phase, the Utilities Department developed Project Agreement No. 26-011-HE with Hillers to provide Construction Management services during construction. These services will ensure the work is completed in accordance with the contract documents and will assist with compliance and certification by permitting agencies.
Staff negotiated a fee for these professional services with Hillers, that is considered fair and reasonable for the scope and complexity of the work, and funds are currently budgeted to complete this work.
This project agreement is consistent with Item Number 13 in Exhibit ‘A’ Scope of Services of the 2020 Continuing Services Agreement with Hillers Electrical Engineering, Inc. for Professional Electrical Engineering Services.