9c
25-88489
CITY OF GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA ITEM
Report: Alex Theatre Technology Refresh – Network Infrastructure and Security Systems Upgrade
1. Motion authorizing to process an Amendment to the competitively bid voice and data network cabling contract with Wilsys Communications (Contract No. 8001996) to increase the amount by $45,000, for a new not to exceed contract amount of $844,000.
2. Resolution of Appropriation in the amount of $110,000.
COUNCIL ACTION
Item Type: Consent Calendar
Approved for July 29, 2025 calendar
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Community Development Department, in partnership with the Information Technology Department, is requesting $110,000 in appropriations to fund a comprehensive technology refresh at the Alex Theatre. This project is necessary to address the aging and increasingly unreliable network and security infrastructure currently in place. The work will involve replacing outdated network cabling that connects six Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) locations, installing new fiber optic lines between those locations, and upgrading the core network equipment. This includes replacing network switches, the firewall, wireless access points, and the entire camera surveillance system.
The goal of this refresh is to bring the Theatre’s technology infrastructure up to modern standards, improve performance and reliability, and ensure the venue is equipped to support current and future operational needs. This investment will also reduce the risk of service interruptions during public events and help ensure that building operations remain stable and secure, which is essential for the safety and experience of patrons. 9c2
25-88489
6 2
5 1
RECOMMENDATION
That the Council approve the proposed technology refresh project for the Alex Theatre, including the appropriation of $110,000 for the purchase and installation of new network and security equipment and authorize the Deputy Director of Finance-Purchasing to process an Amendment to the competitively bid voice and data network cabling contract with Wilsys Communications to increase the not to exceed amount by $45,000.
ANALYSIS
The current technology infrastructure at the Alex Theatre has reached the end of its useful life. The network cabling that runs throughout the facility is outdated and has become increasingly unreliable, leading to intermittent connectivity issues and degraded performance. The network switches that form the backbone of the theatre’s digital operations are more than ten years old. These switches are no longer supported by the manufacturer and lack the capabilities needed to handle modern data traffic, security protocols, and device management.
Under the existing lease agreement with Evensong (formerly SAS), the City is responsible for the repair and maintenance of Theatre building systems and equipment, including utilities, electrical, security, power and life-safety systems, among others. (Lease, Art. 9 Section 9.2). The physical network systems staff is seeking to upgrade are building systems for which the City, as landlord, has responsibility to repair and maintain.
In addition to the network issues, the theatre’s camera surveillance system is also in a state of disrepair. The recording functionality of the system has failed in several areas, making it difficult or impossible to review footage when needed. This poses a significant risk to the safety and security of the venue, its staff, and its patrons.
The proposed project will address all of these issues by replacing the existing copper cabling with new, high-performance cabling and installing fiber optic lines to connect the six IDF locations. This will dramatically improve the speed and reliability of the network.
The outdated switches will be replaced with modern, managed switches that support current standards and provide better control and visibility into network performance. The firewall will be upgraded to enhance the theatre’s cybersecurity posture, and new wireless access points will be installed to ensure strong and consistent Wi-Fi coverage throughout the facility. Finally, the camera system will be replaced with a new, high-definition IP- based system that includes reliable recording and playback capabilities.
This refresh is not only necessary to resolve current issues but also to future-proof the theatre’s infrastructure for years to come. It will reduce maintenance costs, improve operational efficiency, and provide a safer and more secure environment. Most importantly, it will significantly reduce the risk of technical failures during public events, ensuring that building operations remain uninterrupted and that the safety and security of patrons is not compromised. Given the theatre’s role as a public venue and cultural landmark, maintaining reliable infrastructure is essential to supporting community engagement and public trust.
9c3
25-88489
6 2
5 1
The City has an existing multi-year contract with Wilsys Communications (term expires in 2028); Wilsys Communications is fully qualified to undertake this work on the City’s behalf.
STAKEHOLDERS/OUTREACH
No outreach is necessary for this report.
FISCAL IMPACT
The technology refresh will cost $110,000, which was not included as a part of the FY 2025-26 Budget. Therefore, staff is requesting an appropriation of $110,000 from the General Fund undesignated fund balance. The appropriation request is outlined below:
Requesting Appropriation
Amount From (Account
String)
To (Account String) Funding Source
$45,000 25300-1010-000 GL: 43110-4010-
CDD-0020
PL: CDD00796BN
Undesignated
General Fund
Balance
$65,000 25300-1010-000 GL: 51000-4010-
CDD-0020
PL: CDD00796BN
Undesignated
General Fund
Balance
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA/NEPA)
This project qualifies for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as it involves the repair and maintenance of existing public facilities with no expansion of use.
CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE
This item is exempt from campaign disclosure requirements.
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The Council could choose to delay or deny the project. However, this would leave the theatre operating with unreliable and outdated infrastructure, increasing the risk of system failures, security incidents, and higher maintenance costs. A partial upgrade could be considered, but it would not fully resolve the underlying issues and may result in inefficiencies or compatibility problems.
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Submitted by:
Bradley Calvert, Director of Community Development
Jason Bradford, Chief Information Officer
9c4
25-88489
6 2
5 1
Prepared by:
Tamar Sadd, Deputy Director of Community Development
Jason Miller, Assistant Chief Information Officer
Approved by:
Roubik R. Golanian, P.E., City Manager
EXHIBITS/ATTACHMENTS