March 25, 2025
Economic Development
Richmond Housing Authority
DATE: March 25, 2025
TO: Chair Martinez and Members of the Board of
Commissioners of the Richmond Housing Authority
FROM:
Antoinette Terrell, Executive Director of Richmond
Housing Authority
Nannette Beacham, Director of Economic Development
Gregory Palomino, Administrative Assistant
Subject:
Contract with Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc. for
Installation at Nystrom Village
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The vacant property security will be funded through the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) annual
allocation of Operating Subsidy Fiscal Year (FY):
FY 2024-25: $50,000
FY 2025-26: $50,000
FY 2026-27: $50,000
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The Richmond Housing Authority is requesting the
Richmond City Council to adopt a resolution authorizing a contract with Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc. to
continue to secure the vacant units located within
Nystrom Village.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
ADOPT a resolution authorizing a contract for $150,000
with Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc., beginning
April 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2028, for installation and removal of steel door and window guards at vacant
units located within Nystrom Village – Richmond Housing Authority (Gregory Palomino 510-621-1300/Antoinette
Terrell 510-620-6784).
AGENDA
REPORT
March 25, 2025
DISCUSSION:
The Richmond Housing Authority (RHA) seeks to continue its contract with Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc. to secure vacant properties at Nystrom Village, a multifamily complex consisting of duplex apartments. This property has experienced and continues to experience a relatively high vacancy rate. These vacant units, many of which are uninhabitable and awaiting renovations, require effective security measures to deter squatters, prevent further property damage, and avoid additional legal or logistical challenges associated with unauthorized occupation.
Due to the unique circumstances and ongoing needs of this project, the RHA is pursuing a sole-source procurement for the continuation of services with the current vendor. A sole source justification is appropriate in this case, as the current vendor provides a proven solution tailored to the specific needs of RHA’s vacant property security. The vendor has demonstrated expertise in addressing the challenges at Nystrom Village, including mitigating risks related to squatter occupation and maintaining property integrity.
Transitioning to a new vendor would introduce significant risks, including service lapses during the removal and reinstallation of security equipment, as well as increased vulnerability to unauthorized access during the transition period. These risks could lead to heightened costs for repairs, legal proceedings, and enforcement efforts, making continuity of service a critical priority (Attachment 1).
By adopting this resolution, the City Council will enable the RHA to uphold the safety and security of its properties, minimize risks associated with service transitions, and continue protecting its assets during this period of vacancy and renovation (Attachment 2).
City staff recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing a sole source contract with Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc. for vacant property security at Nystrom Village, ensuring continuity of service and the safety of the Richmond Housing Authority’s properties (Attachment 3).
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Sole Source Justification
Attachment 2 – Resolution Door and Window Guard Systems, Inc.
Attachment 3 – Contract