City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: October 7, 2025
From: Todd Dusenberry, General Manager of Public Utilities Department: Public Utilities
Submitted by: Adriana Ramos, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
Purchase Order with Quinn Company
Recommendation
A. Approve and authorize the issuance of a Purchase Order with Quinn Company for a 2025 Caterpillar 420 Backhoe Loader for a total amount not-to-exceed amount of $175,031.15; B. Authorize a contingency amount of ten percent (10%) or $17,503.12 for the equipment purchase from Quinn Company in case of unforeseen fluctuations in price caused by tariffs, inflation, or supply chain issues; and
C. Authorize the City Administrator to facilitate the bidding and purchase of comparable equipment for an amount not-to-exceed $192,534.27 (Quinn Company purchase price plus the contingency amount) from an alternate source or dealership should Quinn Company equipment availability be impacted by inventory shortages.
Background
Vernon Public Utilities (VPU) has developed a comprehensive five-year plan to replace vehicles and equipment in its fleet. This plan considers several factors, including the age and mileage of vehicles, their usage, and compliance with SCAQMD regulations, in an effort to ensure safety, reliability, and minimize operating risks and costs. Additionally, it incorporates recommendations from the Public Works Garage staff, who have insights into the condition of older VPU vehicles and equipment. The replacement of VPU’s vehicles and equipment will help address the challenges posed by the scarcity of replacement parts, which has led to increased repair costs and a greater maintenance workload for Public Works staff. In accordance with VPU’s vehicle and equipment replacement plan, a 2008 Caterpillar 40E Tractor Backhoe Loader, with City vehicle ID W104, has been identified for replacement.
VPU staff recommends approval of a Purchase Order with Quinn Company in the amount of $175,031.15. for the purchase of a 2025 Caterpillar 420 Backhoe Loader. Additionally, VPU staff recommends a contingency amount of ten percent (10%) or $17,503.12 in the event equipment prices fluctuate due to tariffs, inflation, supply chain issues which may impact equipment inventory, or if a comparable equipment make and model must be purchased from another source or dealership.
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code (VMC) Section 3.32.110(A)(5), the proposed purchase is exempt from competitive bidding, as the purchase is through Sourcewell, which offers participating agencies cooperative, competitively solicited buying contracts. The quote secured from Quinn Company for this recommended purchase is based on Sourcewell contract (011723- CAT) pricing.
Pursuant to VMC Section 3.32.030(A), City Council approval is required for the proposed purchase, as the total value of the purchase exceeds $100,000.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is estimated at $192,534.27. Sufficient funds are available in the Water Fund, Capital Outlay, Account No. 058-070-700-660000 for the current fiscal year.
Attachments
1. Quinn Company - Quote ID 183618-01