City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: December 16, 2025
From: Brian Saeki, City Administrator
Department: City Administration
Submitted by: Sara Sandoval, Management Analyst
Subject
Purchases from SHI International Corporation for Information Technology Solutions Recommendation
A. Approve and authorize issuance of a Purchase Order with SHI International Corporation for the purchase of new firewall solutions for a total amount not-to-exceed $76,847.44; and B. Approve additional funds with SHI International Corporation in the amount of $125,000 for additional purchases that may be necessary from this vendor during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 Fiscal Years.
Background
The City maintains subscriptions with SHI International Corporation (SHI), a vendor commonly used for technology hardware, software, and professional services. SHI provides competitive government pricing, rapid procurement turnaround times, and access to a wide range of enterprise-grade Information Technology (IT) solutions.
As cybersecurity requirements continue to increase across public-sector agencies, the City’s existing network firewalls are no longer adequate and no longer meet current standards for security best practices. Upgraded equipment is necessary to enhance network protection, improve system reliability, and ensure compliance with evolving state and federal cybersecurity standards and protocols. Council approval of the proposed Purchase Order (PO) for Quote 26589737 would allow IT to proceed with the acquisition of new firewall technology, associated licensing, and installation services. Replacing the City’s current firewalls will significantly strengthen perimeter security, reduce system vulnerabilities, and improve network performance.
The proposed PO will allow IT to implement more advanced threat protection tools, support increased remote connectivity, and ensure the City remains resilient against emerging cyber threats.
The PO is exempt from competitive bidding in accordance with Vernon Municipal Code (VMC) Section 3.32.110 (A)(5)(b), as the vendor is a participant in the OMNIA Partners cooperative purchasing program. OMNIA Partners is a cooperative purchasing organization that offers contracts that are competitively solicited for the public sector. The City’s Finance Director has determined that it is to the advantage of the City to utilize the OMNIA contract (Contract No. 2024056-02) for procurement of the desired technology solutions.
The IT Division is also requesting authorization of $125,000 of additional funds to be used with SHI. This approval will provide flexibility for IT to complete necessary upgrades in a timely manner and address additional technology needs as they may arise. Purchases would be made only as needed and in accordance with the City’s established procurement policies and procedures.
Pursuant to VMC Sections 3.32.030(A) and 3.32.030(B), City Council approval is required as the proposed PO and future purchases from SHI exceed $100,000.
The attached quote has been reviewed and approved as to form by the City Attorney’s office.
Upon approval, staff will proceed with issuing a purchase order with SHI.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is not-to-exceed $201,847.44. Sufficient funds are available in account 011- 010-110-529110 for Repairs & Maintenance- IT. Purchases will be made only as needed and in accordance with the City’s procurement policies in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 fiscal years.
Attachments
1. SHI Quote 26589737