HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2408-3339CITY OF PALO ALTO
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Monday, September 09, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Agenda Item
7.Approval of Professional Services Contract Number C25191297 with Kittelson &
Associates for a Not-to-Exceed Amount of $499,491 for the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Railroad Crossing Alternatives Analysis in Southern Palo Alto for a Term of Two-Years;
CEQA Status – categorically exempt. Consent Questions, Public Comment
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: Transportation
Meeting Date: September 9, 2024
Report #:2408-3339
TITLE
Approval of Professional Services Contract Number C25191297 with Kittelson & Associates for a
Not-to-Exceed Amount of $499,491 for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing
Alternatives Analysis in Southern Palo Alto for a Term of Two-Years; CEQA Status – categorically
exempt.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that Council approve and authorize the City Manager or their designee to
execute Contract No. C25191297 (Attachment A), with Kittelson & Associates, to provide an
alternatives analysis for the southern Palo Alto bicycle and pedestrian railroad crossing for a
term of two (2) years and a total amount Not-to-Exceed $499,491.
BACKGROUND
The Caltrain corridor runs north-south parallel to Alma Street through the City of Palo Alto,
resulting in a barrier for east-west travel by all modes. Currently, there are seven streets where
people and vehicles can cross the railroad tracks in Palo Alto. Three of the seven crossings
(University Avenue, Embarcadero Road, and Oregon Expressway) are grade separated while the
other four crossings (Palo Alto Avenue, Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Road)
are at-grade. The City is planning to separate the train tracks from vehicles, bicyclists, and
pedestrians at three of the at-grade crossings (Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston
Road). Several citywide planning studies have found that existing and possible future crossing
opportunities along the Caltrain corridor are more abundant in the northern areas (i.e., north of
Oregon Expressway), particularly in the vicinity of downtown, compared to the southern areas
(i.e., south of Oregon Expressway). This geographic imbalance in opportunities for connections is
a disadvantage for the southern neighborhoods in the City of Palo Alto. Further, the City’s 2030
Comprehensive Plan, 2012 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan (BPTP), Rail Corridor Study, and
Midtown Connection Feasibility Study have identified potential locations along this corridor as
opportunities to provide grade-separated crossings for bicyclists and pedestrians.
The purpose of the Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Alternatives
Analysis (“Alternatives Analysis”) is to develop community-supported locations and design
concepts for two (2) new grade-separated bicycle and pedestrian crossings of the Caltrain
corridor (and Alma Street, if needed) in Southern Palo Alto (i.e., south of Oregon Expressway).
The Alternatives Analysis will also identify context-sensitive bicycle and pedestrian
enhancements that link the proposed grade-separated crossing sites to the existing/proposed
bicycle and pedestrian networks within the neighborhoods adjacent to the railroad tracks.
ANALYSIS
The City published the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and
Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Alternatives Analysis on the City’s eProcurement platform, on May
9, 2024, and 3,177 firms were notified. The solicitation period was posted for 31 working days
and closed on June 20, 2024. The City received one responsive proposal from Kittelson &
Associates, a transportation planning, engineering, and research services firm. Kittelson &
Associates has teamed with three firms: (1) Circlepoint, leaders in equitable and inclusive
engagement and environmental analysis, (2) BKF, experts in engineering and design, and (3) Biggs
Cardosa Associates, experts in structural engineering, to provide the City with the range of
expertise needed to successfully complete the Alternatives Analysis.
Table 1: Summary of Request for Proposals
RFP Name/Description RFP 191297 Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and
Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Study
Request for Proposals Issued May 9, 2024
Proposed Length of Project 2 Years
Total Days to Respond to RFP 31 Working Days
Number of Firms Notified 3,177
Proposals Due June 20, 2024
Number of RFP Downloads 40
Number of Proposals Received 1
Proposal Price Range $499,491
Public Link to Solicitation Bid Information (opengov.com)
A four-staff evaluation committee comprised of three Office of Transportation City Staff and
one Public Works City Staff carefully reviewed each firm’s qualifications and submittals in
response to the criteria identified in the RFP:
1. Quality and completeness of proposal
2. Quality, performance and effectiveness of the solution, goods and/or services to be
provided by the Proposer
3.The firm’s experience, including the experience of staff to be assigned to the project, with
engagements of similar scope and complexity
4. Proposed cost to the city
5. The firm’s financial condition and stability
6. The firm’s ability to perform the work within the time specified
7. The firm’s prior record of performance with City or other local, county, or state agency, if
applicable
8. The firm’s compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies (including city policies),
guidelines and orders governing prior or existing contracts performed by the contractor.
The evaluation committee identified that the preferred service provider who responded to the
RFP is sufficiently qualified to conduct the work. Kittelson & Associates provided a
comprehensive approach to the scope of work, demonstrated a clear understanding of Palo Alto
and its needs, proposed an innovative approach to engage the community, has extensive
experience working in Palo Alto (including the on-going Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation
Plan Update) and with other Bay Area communities on developing context-sensitive and
performance-based transportation planning studies, is under budget, and provides exceptional
project management.
The City received one response to this RFP so staff contacted several other firms who received
the RFP to understand why they did not submit a proposal. Firms stated they were unable to
submit a proposal due to other proposal/project commitments, limited expertise on local railroad
crossing studies, and/or inability to join a team as a subcontractor. Based on thorough proposal
from Kittelson & Associates and the follow-up feedback from those who did not respond, staff
recommends approval of a contract with Kittelson & Associates.
The scope of work of Kittelson & Associates includes the following tasks, to be completed within
an 18-month process, beginning once the contract is executed, anticipated for September 2024:
1. Project Management and Coordination
2. Community Outreach and Engagement
3. Data Collection and Analysis of Existing Conditions
4. Goals and Evaluation Criteria
5. Alternatives Development and Selection of Preferred Alternatives
6. Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Alternatives Analysis Report
7.Grant Application Support
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
The cost proposal submitted by Kittelson & Associates for the Alternatives Analysis is in the
amount of $499,491, including a 10 percent contingency. Sufficient funding for anticipated
expenses is available in the FY 2025 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan Implementation
project (PL- 04010) in the Capital Improvement Fund.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The City provided the public procurement process through its eProcurement platform and
notified 3,177 firms to encourage participation. In addition, thirty firms were contacted directly
by procurement staff to announce availability of the Request for Proposals. Of those notified,
thirty-eight downloaded the proposal documents.
At the onset of the Alternatives Analysis, Kittelson & Associates will develop a community
engagement plan that will explain how the project team will share information and gather
meaningful input regarding the needs and issues of the public, stakeholders, and interested
parties. The engagement activities will be tailored towards the unique character of the
community and are anticipated to include, but not limited to, the following:
•Project Webpage and Social Media Content
•Community Workshops
•Interactive Online Surveys
•Engagement with Disadvantaged Communities
•Engagement with Local Businesses
•Interviews with Select Community Members
•Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee (PABAC) Meetings
•Rail Committee Meetings
•City/School Transportation Safety Meetings
•Planning and Transportation Commission Meetings
•City Council Meetings
•Supporting Informational Materials (e.g., Mailers, Door Hangers, Flyers, Fact Sheets)
POLICY IMPLICATIONS
The Alternatives Analysis supports key transportation goals in the City’s 2030 Comprehensive
Plan, including creating a sustainable transportation system, reducing congestion, and providing
a safe environment for all road users. Specific policies and programs include:
•Policy T-1.1 Take a comprehensive approach to reducing single-occupant vehicle trips by
involving those who live, work and shop in Palo Alto in developing strategies that make it
easier and more convenient not to drive.
•Policy T-1.3 Reduce GHG and pollutant emissions associated with transportation by
reducing VMT and per-mile emissions through increasing transit options, supporting
biking and walking, and the use of zero-emission vehicle technologies to meet City and
State goals for GHG reductions by 2030.
•Policy T-1.16 Promote personal transportation vehicles an alternative to cars (e.g.
bicycles, skateboards, roller blades) to get to work, school, shopping, recreational
facilities and transit stops.
•Policy T-1.19 Provide facilities that encourage and support bicycling and walking.
•Program T1.19.2 Prioritize investments for enhanced pedestrian access and bicycle use
within Palo Alto and to/from surrounding communities, including by incorporating
improvements from related City plans, for example the 2012 Palo Alto Bicycle +
Pedestrian Transportation Plan and the Parks, Trails & Open Space Master Plan, as
amended, into the Capital Improvements Program.
•Program T1.19.3 Increase the number of east-west pedestrian and bicycle crossings
across Alma Street and the Caltrain corridor, particularly south of Oregon Expressway.
•Policy T-3.15 Pursue grade separation of rail crossings along the rail corridor as a City
priority.
•Program T3.15.1 Undertake studies and outreach necessary to advance grade separation
of Caltrain to become a “shovel ready” project and strongly advocate for adequate State,
regional and federal funding for design and construction of railroad grade separations.
•Program T3.15.2 Conduct a study to evaluate the implications of grade separation on
bicycle and pedestrian circulation.
•Policy T-6.1 Continue to make safety the first priority of citywide transportation planning.
Prioritize pedestrian, bicycle and automobile safety over motor vehicle level of service at
intersections and motor vehicle parking.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council action on this item is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) section 15262 because this contract for planning and preliminary design does not
commit the City to any specific project.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Kittelson & Associates Contract, C25191297
APPROVED BY:
Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Professional Services
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CITY OF PALO ALTO CONTRACT NO. C25191297
AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
BETWEEN THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AND KITTELSON AND ASSOCIATES
This Agreement for Professional Services (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of September 9,
2024 (the “Effective Date”), by and between the CITY OF PALO ALTO, a California
chartered municipal corporation (“CITY”), and KITTELSON AND ASSOCIATES, a California,
located at 155 Grand Ave, Suite 505, Oakland CA 94612 (“CONSULTANT”).
The following recitals are a substantive portion of this Agreement and are fully incorporated herein
by this reference:
RECITALS
A. CITY intends to conduct transportation study (the “Project”) and desires to engage a
consultant to provide transportation planning and engineering services in support of the Southern
Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Study in connection with the Project (the
“Services”, as detailed more fully in Exhibit A).
B. CONSULTANT represents that it, its employees and subconsultants, if any, possess the
necessary professional expertise, qualifications, and capability, and all required licenses and/or
certifications to provide the Services.
C. CITY, in reliance on these representations, desires to engage CONSULTANT to provide
the Services as more fully described in Exhibit A, entitled “SCOPE OF SERVICES”.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitals, covenants, terms, and conditions, in this
Agreement, the parties agree as follows:
SECTION 1. SCOPE OF SERVICES.CONSULTANT shall perform the Services described
in Exhibit A in accordance with the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement. The
performance of all Services shall be to the reasonable satisfaction of CITY.
Optional On-Call Provision (This provision only applies if checked and only applies to
on-call agreements.)
CITY may elect to, but is not required to, authorize on-call Services up to the maximum
compensation amount set forth in Section 4 (Not to Exceed Compensation).
CONSULTANT shall provide on-call Services only by advanced, written authorization
from CITY as detailed in this Section. On-call Services, if any, shall be authorized by
CITY, as needed, with a Task Order assigned and approved by CITY’s Project Manager,
as identified in Section 13 (Project Management). Each Task Order shall be in substantially
the same form as Exhibit A-1 entitled “PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TASK ORDER”.
Each Task Order shall contain a specific scope of services, schedule of performance and
maximum compensation amount, in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.
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Compensation for on-call Services shall be specified by CITY in the Task Order, based on
whichever is lowest: the compensation structure set forth in Exhibit C, the hourly rates set
forth in Exhibit C-1, or a negotiated lump sum.
To accept a Task Order, CONSULTANT shall sign the Task Order and return it to CITY’s
Project Manager within the time specified by the Project Manager, and upon authorization
by CITY (defined as counter-signature by the CITY Project Manager), the fully executed
Task Order shall become part of this Agreement. The cumulative total compensation due
to CONSULTANT for all Task Orders issued under this Agreement shall not exceed the
amount of compensation set forth in Section 4. CONSULTANT shall only be compensated
for on-call Services performed under an authorized Task Order and only up to the
maximum compensation amount set forth in Section 4. Performance of and payment for
any on-call Services are subject to all requirements and restrictions in this Agreement.
SECTION 2. TERM.
The term of this Agreement shall be from the date of its full execution through September 9, 2026
unless terminated earlier pursuant to Section 19 (Termination) of this Agreement.
SECTION 3. SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCE. Time is of the essence in the performance
of Services under this Agreement. CONSULTANT shall complete the Services within the term of
this Agreement and in accordance with the schedule set forth in Exhibit B, entitled “SCHEDULE
OF PERFORMANCE”. Any Services for which times for performance are not specified in this
Agreement shall be commenced and completed by CONSULTANT in a reasonably prompt and
timely manner based upon the circumstances and direction communicated to the CONSULTANT.
CITY’s agreement to extend the term or the schedule for performance shall not preclude recovery
of damages for delay if the extension is required due to the fault of CONSULTANT.
SECTION 4. NOT TO EXCEED COMPENSATION. The compensation to be paid to
CONSULTANT for performance of the Services shall be based on the compensation structure
detailed in Exhibit C, entitled “COMPENSATION,” including any reimbursable expenses
specified therein, and the maximum total compensation shall not exceed Four Hundred Ninety-
Nine Thousand, Four Hundred Ninety Dollars, and Twenty Cents ($499,490.20). The hourly
schedule of rates, if applicable, is set out in Exhibit C-1, entitled “SCHEDULE OF RATES.” Any
work performed or expenses incurred for which payment would result in a total exceeding the
maximum compensation set forth in this Section 4 shall be at no cost to the CITY.
Optional Additional Services Provision (This provision applies only if checked and a
not-to-exceed compensation amount for Additional Services is allocated below under this
Section 4.)
In addition to the not-to-exceed compensation specified above, CITY has set aside the not-
to-exceed compensation amount of Dollars ($ )for the performance of
Additional Services (as defined below). The total compensation for performance of the
Services, Additional Services and any reimbursable expenses specified in Exhibit C, shall
not exceed Dollars ($ ), as detailed in Exhibit C.
“Additional Services” means any work that is determined by CITY to be necessary for the
proper completion of the Project, but which is not included within the Scope of Services
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described at Exhibit A. CITY may elect to, but is not required to, authorize Additional
Services up to the maximum amount of compensation set forth for Additional Services in
this Section 4. CONSULTANT shall provide Additional Services only by advanced,
written authorization from CITY as detailed in this Section. Additional Services, if any,
shall be authorized by CITY with a Task Order assigned and authorized by CITY’s Project
Manager, as identified in Section 13 (Project Management). Each Task Order shall be in
substantially the same form as Exhibit A-1, entitled “PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TASK
ORDER”. Each Task Order shall contain a specific scope of services, schedule of
performance and maximum compensation amount, in accordance with the provisions of
this Agreement. Compensation for Additional Services shall be specified by CITY in the
Task Order, based on whichever is lowest: the compensation structure set forth in Exhibit
C, the hourly rates set forth in Exhibit C-1, or a negotiated lump sum.
To accept a Task Order, CONSULTANT shall sign the Task Order and return it to CITY’s
Project Manager within the time specified by the Project Manager, and upon authorization
by CITY (defined as counter-signature by the CITY Project Manager), the fully executed
Task Order shall become part of this Agreement. The cumulative total compensation to
CONSULTANT for all Task Orders authorized under this Agreement shall not exceed the
amount of compensation set forth for Additional Services in this Section 4.
CONSULTANT shall only be compensated for Additional Services performed under an
authorized Task Order and only up to the maximum amount of compensation set forth for
Additional Services in this Section 4. Performance of and payment for any Additional
Services are subject to all requirements and restrictions in this Agreement.
SECTION 5. INVOICES. In order to request payment, CONSULTANT shall submit monthly
invoices to the CITY describing the Services performed and the applicable charges (including, if
applicable, an identification of personnel who performed the Services, hours worked, hourly rates,
and reimbursable expenses), based upon Exhibit C or, as applicable, CONSULTANT’s schedule
of rates set forth in Exhibit C-1. If applicable, the invoice shall also describe the percentage of
completion of each task. The information in CONSULTANT’s invoices shall be subject to
verification by CITY. CONSULTANT shall send all invoices to CITY’s Project Manager at the
address specified in Section 13 (Project Management) below. CITY will generally process and
pay invoices within thirty (30) days of receipt of an acceptable invoice.
SECTION 6. QUALIFICATIONS/STANDARD OF CARE.All Services shall be performed
by CONSULTANT or under CONSULTANT’s supervision. CONSULTANT represents that it,
its employees and subcontractors, if any, possess the professional and technical personnel
necessary to perform the Services required by this Agreement and that the personnel have
sufficient skill and experience to perform the Services assigned to them. CONSULTANT
represents that it, its employees and subcontractors, if any, have and shall maintain during the term
of this Agreement all licenses, permits, qualifications, insurance and approvals of whatever nature
that are legally required to perform the Services. All Services to be furnished by CONSULTANT
under this Agreement shall meet the professional standard and quality that prevail among
professionals in the same discipline and of similar knowledge and skill engaged in related work
throughout California under the same or similar circumstances.
SECTION 7. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. CONSULTANT shall keep itself informed of
and in compliance with all federal, state and local laws, ordinances, regulations, and orders that
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may affect in any manner the Project or the performance of the Services or those engaged to
perform Services under this Agreement, as amended from time to time. CONSULTANT shall
procure all permits and licenses, pay all charges and fees, and give all notices required by law in
the performance of the Services.
SECTION 8. ERRORS/OMISSIONS. CONSULTANT is solely responsible for costs,
including, but not limited to, increases in the cost of Services, arising from or caused by
CONSULTANT’s errors and omissions, including, but not limited to, the costs of corrections such
errors and omissions, any change order markup costs, or costs arising from delay caused by the
errors and omissions or unreasonable delay in correcting the errors and omissions.
SECTION 9. COST ESTIMATES.If this Agreement pertains to the design of a public works
project, CONSULTANT shall submit estimates of probable construction costs at each phase of
design submittal. If the total estimated construction cost at any submittal exceeds the CITY’s
stated construction budget by ten percent (10%) or more, CONSULTANT shall make
recommendations to CITY for aligning the Project design with the budget, incorporate CITY
approved recommendations, and revise the design to meet the Project budget, at no additional cost
to CITY.
SECTION 10. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. CONSULTANT acknowledges and agrees
that CONSULTANT and any agent or employee of CONSULTANT will act as and shall be
deemed at all times to be an independent contractor and shall be wholly responsible for the manner
in which CONSULTANT performs the Services requested by CITY under this Agreement.
CONSULTANT and any agent or employee of CONSULTANT will not have employee status
with CITY, nor be entitled to participate in any plans, arrangements, or distributions by CITY
pertaining to or in connection with any retirement, health or other benefits that CITY may offer its
employees. CONSULTANT will be responsible for all obligations and payments, whether
imposed by federal, state or local law, including, but not limited to, FICA, income tax
withholdings, workers’ compensation, unemployment compensation, insurance, and other similar
responsibilities related to CONSULTANT’s performance of the Services, or any agent or
employee of CONSULTANT providing same. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as
creating an employment or agency relationship between CITY and CONSULTANT or any agent
or employee of CONSULTANT. Any terms in this Agreement referring to direction from CITY
shall be construed as providing for direction as to policy and the result of CONSULTANT’s
provision of the Services only, and not as to the means by which such a result is obtained.
SECTION 11. ASSIGNMENT. The parties agree that the expertise and experience of
CONSULTANT are material considerations for this Agreement. CONSULTANT shall not assign
or transfer any interest in this Agreement nor the performance of any of CONSULTANT’s
obligations hereunder without the prior written approval of the City Manager. Any purported
assignment made without the prior written approval of the City Manager will be void and without
effect. Subject to the foregoing, the covenants, terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement
will apply to, and will bind, the heirs, successors, executors, administrators and assignees of the
parties.
SECTION 12. SUBCONTRACTING.
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Option B: Subcontracts Authorized: Notwithstanding Section 11 (Assignment) above, CITY
agrees that subcontractors may be used to complete the Services. The subcontractors authorized
by CITY to perform work on this Project are:
Biggs Cardosa & Associates, Circlepoint and BKF Engineers
CONSULTANT shall be responsible for directing the work of any subcontractors and for any
compensation due to subcontractors. CITY assumes no responsibility whatsoever concerning
compensation of subcontractors. CONSULTANT shall be fully responsible to CITY for all acts
and omissions of subcontractors. CONSULTANT shall change or add subcontractors only with
the prior written approval of the City Manager or designee.
SECTION 13. PROJECT MANAGEMENT. CONSULTANT will assign Amanda Leahy,
Email: aleahy@kittelson.com as the CONSULTANT’s Project Manager to have supervisory
responsibility for the performance, progress, and execution of the Services and represent
CONSULTANT during the day-to-day performance of the Services. If circumstances cause the
substitution of the CONSULTANT’s Project Manager or any other of CONSULTANT’s key
personnel for any reason, the appointment of a substitute Project Manager and the assignment of
any key new or replacement personnel will be subject to the prior written approval of the CITY’s
Project Manager. CONSULTANT, at CITY’s request, shall promptly remove CONSULTANT
personnel who CITY finds do not perform the Services in an acceptable manner, are uncooperative,
or present a threat to the adequate or timely completion of the Services or a threat to the safety of
persons or property.
CITY’s Project Manager is Charlie Coles, Transportation Department, Transportation Planning
Division, 250 Hamilton Avenue Palo Alto, CA, 94301, Telephone: 650-329-2166,
Charlie.coles@cityofpaloalto.org: CITY’s Project Manager will be CONSULTANT’s point of
contact with respect to performance, progress and execution of the Services. CITY may designate
an alternate Project Manager from time to time.
SECTION 14. OWNERSHIP OF MATERIALS. All work product, including without
limitation, all writings, drawings, studies, sketches, photographs, plans, reports, specifications,
computations, models, recordings, data, documents, and other materials and copyright interests
developed under this Agreement, in any form or media, shall be and remain the exclusive property
of CITY without restriction or limitation upon their use. CONSULTANT agrees that all copyrights
which arise from creation of the work product pursuant to this Agreement are vested in CITY, and
CONSULTANT hereby waives and relinquishes all claims to copyright or other intellectual
property rights in favor of CITY. Neither CONSULTANT nor its subcontractors, if any, shall
make any of such work product available to any individual or organization without the prior written
approval of the City Manager or designee. CONSULTANT makes no representation of the
suitability of the work product for use in or application to circumstances not contemplated by the
Scope of Services.
SECTION 15. AUDITS. CONSULTANT agrees to permit CITY and its authorized
representatives to audit, at any reasonable time during the term of this Agreement and for four (4)
years from the date of final payment, CONSULTANT’s records pertaining to matters covered by
this Agreement, including without limitation records demonstrating compliance with the
requirements of Section 10 (Independent Contractor). CONSULTANT further agrees to maintain
and retain accurate books and records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
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for at least four (4) years after the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement or the
completion of any audit hereunder, whichever is later.
SECTION 16. INDEMNITY.
16.1. To the fullest extent permitted by law, CONSULTANT shall indemnify,
defend and hold harmless CITY, its Council members, officers, employees and agents (each an
“Indemnified Party”) from and against any and all demands, claims, or liability of any nature,
including death or injury to any person, property damage or any other loss, including all costs and
expenses of whatever nature including attorney’s fees, experts fees, court costs and disbursements
(“Claims”) resulting from, arising out of or in any manner related to performance or
nonperformance by CONSULTANT, its officers, employees, agents or contractors under this
Agreement, regardless of whether or not it is caused in part by an Indemnified Party.
16.2. Notwithstanding the above, nothing in this Section 16 shall be construed to
require CONSULTANT to indemnify an Indemnified Party from a Claim arising from the active
negligence or willful misconduct of an Indemnified Party that is not contributed to by any act of,
or by any omission to perform a duty imposed by law or agreement by, CONSULTANT, its
officers, employees, agents or contractors under this Agreement.
16.3. The acceptance of CONSULTANT’s Services and duties by CITY shall not
operate as a waiver of the right of indemnification. The provisions of this Section 16 shall survive
the expiration or early termination of this Agreement.
SECTION 17. WAIVERS. No waiver of a condition or nonperformance of an obligation under
this Agreement is effective unless it is in writing in accordance with Section 29.4 of this
Agreement. No delay or failure to require performance of any provision of this Agreement shall
constitute a waiver of that provision as to that or any other instance. Any waiver granted shall
apply solely to the specific instance expressly stated. No single or partial exercise of any right or
remedy will preclude any other or further exercise of any right or remedy.
SECTION 18. INSURANCE.
18.1. CONSULTANT, at its sole cost and expense, shall obtain and maintain, in
full force and effect during the term of this Agreement, the insurance coverage described in Exhibit
D, entitled “INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS”. CONSULTANT and its contractors, if any, shall
obtain a policy endorsement naming CITY as an additional insured under any general liability or
automobile policy or policies.
18.2. All insurance coverage required hereunder shall be provided through
carriers with AM Best’s Key Rating Guide ratings of A-:VII or higher which are licensed or
authorized to transact insurance business in the State of California. Any and all contractors of
CONSULTANT retained to perform Services under this Agreement will obtain and maintain, in
full force and effect during the term of this Agreement, identical insurance coverage, naming CITY
as an additional insured under such policies as required above.
18.3. Certificates evidencing such insurance shall be filed with CITY
concurrently with the execution of this Agreement. The certificates will be subject to the approval
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of CITY’s Risk Manager and will contain an endorsement stating that the insurance is primary
coverage and will not be canceled, or materially reduced in coverage or limits, by the insurer except
after filing with the Purchasing Manager thirty (30) days’ prior written notice of the cancellation
or modification. If the insurer cancels or modifies the insurance and provides less than thirty (30)
days’ notice to CONSULTANT, CONSULTANT shall provide the Purchasing Manager written
notice of the cancellation or modification within two (2) business days of the CONSULTANT’s
receipt of such notice. CONSULTANT shall be responsible for ensuring that current certificates
evidencing the insurance are provided to CITY’s Chief Procurement Officer during the entire term
of this Agreement.
18.4. The procuring of such required policy or policies of insurance will not be
construed to limit CONSULTANT’s liability hereunder nor to fulfill the indemnification
provisions of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the policy or policies of insurance,
CONSULTANT will be obligated for the full and total amount of any damage, injury, or loss
caused by or directly arising as a result of the Services performed under this Agreement, including
such damage, injury, or loss arising after the Agreement is terminated or the term has expired.
SECTION 19. TERMINATION OR SUSPENSION OF AGREEMENT OR SERVICES.
19.1. The City Manager may suspend the performance of the Services, in whole
or in part, or terminate this Agreement, with or without cause, by giving ten (10) days prior written
notice thereof to CONSULTANT. If CONSULTANT fails to perform any of its material
obligations under this Agreement, in addition to all other remedies provided under this Agreement
or at law, the City Manager may terminate this Agreement sooner upon written notice of
termination. Upon receipt of any notice of suspension or termination, CONSULTANT will
discontinue its performance of the Services on the effective date in the notice of suspension or
termination.
19.2. In event of suspension or termination, CONSULTANT will deliver to the
City Manager on or before the effective date in the notice of suspension or termination, any and
all work product, as detailed in Section 14 (Ownership of Materials), whether or not completed,
prepared by CONSULTANT or its contractors, if any, in the performance of this Agreement. Such
work product is the property of CITY, as detailed in Section 14 (Ownership of Materials).
19.3. In event of suspension or termination, CONSULTANT will be paid for the
Services rendered and work products delivered to CITY in accordance with the Scope of Services
up to the effective date in the notice of suspension or termination; provided, however, if this
Agreement is suspended or terminated on account of a default by CONSULTANT, CITY will be
obligated to compensate CONSULTANT only for that portion of CONSULTANT’s Services
provided in material conformity with this Agreement as such determination is made by the City
Manager acting in the reasonable exercise of his/her discretion. The following Sections will
survive any expiration or termination of this Agreement: 14, 15, 16, 17, 19.2, 19.3, 19.4, 20, 25,
27, 28, 29 and 30.
19.4. No payment, partial payment, acceptance, or partial acceptance by CITY
will operate as a waiver on the part of CITY of any of its rights under this Agreement, unless made
in accordance with Section 17 (Waivers).
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SECTION 20. NOTICES.
All notices hereunder will be given in writing and mailed, postage prepaid, by
certified mail, addressed as follows:
To CITY: Office of the City Clerk
City of Palo Alto
Post Office Box 10250
Palo Alto, CA 94303
With a copy to the Purchasing Manager
To CONSULTANT: Attention of the Project Manager at the address of
CONSULTANT recited on the first page of this Agreement.
CONSULTANT shall provide written notice to CITY of any change of address.
SECTION 21. CONFLICT OF INTEREST.
21.1. In executing this Agreement, CONSULTANT covenants that it presently
has no interest, and will not acquire any interest, direct or indirect, financial or otherwise, which
would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of the Services.
21.2. CONSULTANT further covenants that, in the performance of this
Agreement, it will not employ subcontractors or other persons or parties having such an interest.
CONSULTANT certifies that no person who has or will have any financial interest under this
Agreement is an officer or employee of CITY; this provision will be interpreted in accordance
with the applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and the Government Code of the
State of California, as amended from time to time. CONSULTANT agrees to notify CITY if any
conflict arises.
21.3. If the CONSULTANT meets the definition of a “Consultant” as defined by
the Regulations of the Fair Political Practices Commission, CONSULTANT will file the
appropriate financial disclosure documents required by the Palo Alto Municipal Code and the
Political Reform Act of 1974, as amended from time to time.
SECTION 22. NONDISCRIMINATION; COMPLIANCE WITH ADA.
22.1. As set forth in Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 2.30.510, as amended
from time to time, CONSULTANT certifies that in the performance of this Agreement, it shall not
discriminate in the employment of any person due to that person’s race, skin color, gender, gender
identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic
information or condition, housing status, marital status, familial status, weight or height of such
person. CONSULTANT acknowledges that it has read and understands the provisions of Section
2.30.510 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code relating to Nondiscrimination Requirements and the
penalties for violation thereof, and agrees to meet all requirements of Section 2.30.510 pertaining
to nondiscrimination in employment.
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22.2. CONSULTANT understands and agrees that pursuant to the Americans
Disabilities Act (“ADA”), programs, services and other activities provided by a public entity to
the public, whether directly or through a contractor or subcontractor, are required to be accessible
to the disabled public. CONSULTANT will provide the Services specified in this Agreement in a
manner that complies with the ADA and any other applicable federal, state and local disability
rights laws and regulations, as amended from time to time. CONSULTANT will not discriminate
against persons with disabilities in the provision of services, benefits or activities provided under
this Agreement.
SECTION 23. ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED PURCHASING AND ZERO
WASTE REQUIREMENTS. CONSULTANT shall comply with the CITY’s Environmentally
Preferred Purchasing policies which are available at CITY’s Purchasing Department, hereby
incorporated by reference and as amended from time to time. CONSULTANT shall comply with
waste reduction, reuse, recycling and disposal requirements of CITY’s Zero Waste Program. Zero
Waste best practices include, first, minimizing and reducing waste; second, reusing waste; and,
third, recycling or composting waste. In particular, CONSULTANT shall comply with the
following Zero Waste requirements:
(a) All printed materials provided by CONSULTANT to CITY generated from a
personal computer and printer including but not limited to, proposals, quotes, invoices, reports,
and public education materials, shall be double-sided and printed on a minimum of 30% or greater
post-consumer content paper, unless otherwise approved by CITY’s Project Manager. Any
submitted materials printed by a professional printing company shall be a minimum of 30% or
greater post-consumer material and printed with vegetable-based inks.
(b) Goods purchased by CONSULTANT on behalf of CITY shall be purchased in
accordance with CITY’s Environmental Purchasing Policy including but not limited to Extended
Producer Responsibility requirements for products and packaging. A copy of this policy is on file
at the Purchasing Department’s office.
(c) Reusable/returnable pallets shall be taken back by CONSULTANT, at no
additional cost to CITY, for reuse or recycling. CONSULTANT shall provide documentation from
the facility accepting the pallets to verify that pallets are not being disposed.
SECTION 24. COMPLIANCE WITH PALO ALTO MINIMUM WAGE ORDINANCE.
CONSULTANT shall comply with all requirements of the Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 4.62
(Citywide Minimum Wage), as amended from time to time. In particular, for any employee
otherwise entitled to the State minimum wage, who performs at least two (2) hours of work in a
calendar week within the geographic boundaries of the City, CONSULTANT shall pay such
employees no less than the minimum wage set forth in Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 4.62.030
for each hour worked within the geographic boundaries of the City of Palo Alto. In addition,
CONSULTANT shall post notices regarding the Palo Alto Minimum Wage Ordinance in
accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 4.62.060.
SECTION 25. NON-APPROPRIATION. This Agreement is subject to the fiscal provisions of
the Charter of the City of Palo Alto and the Palo Alto Municipal Code, as amended from time to
time. This Agreement will terminate without any penalty (a) at the end of any fiscal year in the
event that funds are not appropriated for the following fiscal year, or (b) at any time within a fiscal
year in the event that funds are only appropriated for a portion of the fiscal year and funds for this
Agreement are no longer available. This Section shall take precedence in the event of a conflict
with any other covenant, term, condition, or provision of this Agreement.
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SECTION 26. PREVAILING WAGES AND DIR REGISTRATION FOR PUBLIC
WORKS CONTRACTS.
26.1. This Project is not subject to prevailing wages and related
requirements. CONSULTANT is not required to pay prevailing wages and meet related
requirements under the California Labor Code and California Code of Regulations in the
performance and implementation of the Project if the contract:
(1) is not a public works contract;
(2) is for a public works construction project of $25,000 or less, per California
Labor Code Sections 1782(d)(1), 1725.5(f) and 1773.3(j); or
(3) is for a public works alteration, demolition, repair, or maintenance project of
$15,000 or less, per California Labor Code Sections 1782(d)(1), 1725.5(f) and
1773.3(j).
SECTION 27. CLAIMS PROCEDURE FOR “9204 PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS”.For
purposes of this Section 27, a “9204 Public Works Project” means the erection, construction,
alteration, repair, or improvement of any public structure, building, road, or other public
improvement of any kind. (Cal. Pub. Cont. Code § 9204.) Per California Public Contract Code
Section 9204, for Public Works Projects, certain claims procedures shall apply, as set forth in
Exhibit F, entitled “Claims for Public Contract Code Section 9204 Public Works Projects”.
This Project is not a 9204 Public Works Project.
SECTION 28. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.
28.1. In the performance of this Agreement, CONSULTANT may have access to
CITY’s Confidential Information (defined below). CONSULTANT will hold Confidential
Information in strict confidence, not disclose it to any third party, and will use it only for the
performance of its obligations to CITY under this Agreement and for no other purpose.
CONSULTANT will maintain reasonable and appropriate administrative, technical and physical
safeguards to ensure the security, confidentiality and integrity of the Confidential Information.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, CONSULTANT may disclose Confidential Information to its
employees, agents and subcontractors, if any, to the extent they have a need to know in order to
perform CONSULTANT’s obligations to CITY under this Agreement and for no other purpose,
provided that the CONSULTANT informs them of, and requires them to follow, the confidentiality
and security obligations of this Agreement.
28.2. “Confidential Information” means all data, information (including without
limitation “Personal Information” about a California resident as defined in Civil Code Section
1798 et seq., as amended from time to time) and materials, in any form or media, tangible or
intangible, provided or otherwise made available to CONSULTANT by CITY, directly or
indirectly, pursuant to this Agreement. Confidential Information excludes information that
CONSULTANT can show by appropriate documentation: (i) was publicly known at the time it
was provided or has subsequently become publicly known other than by a breach of this
Agreement; (ii) was rightfully in CONSULTANT’s possession free of any obligation of
confidence prior to receipt of Confidential Information; (iii) is rightfully obtained by
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CONSULTANT from a third party without breach of any confidentiality obligation; (iv) is
independently developed by employees of CONSULTANT without any use of or access to the
Confidential Information; or (v) CONSULTANT has written consent to disclose signed by an
authorized representative of CITY.
28.3. Notwithstanding the foregoing, CONSULTANT may disclose Confidential
Information to the extent required by order of a court of competent jurisdiction or governmental
body, provided that CONSULTANT will notify CITY in writing of such order immediately upon
receipt and prior to any such disclosure (unless CONSULTANT is prohibited by law from doing
so), to give CITY an opportunity to oppose or otherwise respond to such order.
28.4. CONSULTANT will notify City promptly upon learning of any breach in
the security of its systems or unauthorized disclosure of, or access to, Confidential Information in
its possession or control, and if such Confidential Information consists of Personal Information,
CONSULTANT will provide information to CITY sufficient to meet the notice requirements of
Civil Code Section 1798 et seq., as applicable, as amended from time to time.
28.5. Prior to or upon termination or expiration of this Agreement,
CONSULTANT will honor any request from the CITY to return or securely destroy all copies of
Confidential Information. All Confidential Information is and will remain the property of the CITY
and nothing contained in this Agreement grants or confers any rights to such Confidential
Information on CONSULTANT.
28.6. If selected in Section 30 (Exhibits), this Agreement is also subject to the
terms and conditions of the Information Privacy Policy and Cybersecurity Terms and Conditions.
SECTION 29. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.
29.1. This Agreement will be governed by California law, without regard to its
conflict of law provisions.
29.2. In the event that an action is brought, the parties agree that trial of such
action will be vested exclusively in the state courts of California in the County of Santa Clara,
State of California.
29.3. The prevailing party in any action brought to enforce the provisions of this
Agreement may recover its reasonable costs and attorneys’ fees expended in connection with that
action. The prevailing party shall be entitled to recover an amount equal to the fair market value
of legal services provided by attorneys employed by it as well as any attorneys’ fees paid to third
parties.
29.4. This Agreement, including all exhibits, constitutes the entire and integrated
agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement, and supersedes
all prior agreements, negotiations, representations, statements and undertakings, either oral or
written. This Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument, which is signed by the
authorized representatives of the parties and approved as required under Palo Alto Municipal
Code, as amended from time to time.
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29.5. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds or rules that any provision of this
Agreement is void or unenforceable, the unaffected provisions of this Agreement will remain in
full force and effect.
29.6. In the event of a conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the
exhibits hereto (per Section 30) or CONSULTANT’s proposal (if any), the Agreement shall
control. In the event of a conflict between the exhibits hereto and CONSULTANT’s proposal (if
any), the exhibits shall control.
29.7. The provisions of all checked boxes in this Agreement shall apply to this
Agreement; the provisions of any unchecked boxes shall not apply to this Agreement.
29.8. All section headings contained in this Agreement are for convenience and
reference only and are not intended to define or limit the scope of any provision of this Agreement.
29.9. This Agreement may be signed in multiple counterparts, which, when
executed by the authorized representatives of the parties, shall together constitute a single binding
agreement.
SECTION 30. EXHIBITS. Each of the following exhibits, if the check box for such exhibit is
selected below, is hereby attached and incorporated into this Agreement by reference as though
fully set forth herein:
EXHIBIT A: SCOPE OF SERVICES
EXHIBIT B: SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCE
EXHIBIT C: COMPENSATION
EXHIBIT C-1: SCHEDULE OF RATES
EXHIBIT D: INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
THIS AGREEMENT IS NOT COMPLETE UNLESS ALL SELECTED EXHIBITS
ARE ATTACHED.
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CONTRACT No. S25191297 SIGNATURE PAGE
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have by their duly authorized representatives
executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.
CITY OF PALO ALTO
____________________________
City Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
City Attorney or designee
KITTELSON & ASSOCIATES
Officer 1
By:
Name:
Title:
Officer 2
By:
Name:
Title:
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EXHIBIT A
SCOPE OF SERVICES
CONSULTANT shall provide the Services detailed in this Exhibit A, entitled “SCOPE OF
SERVICES”. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, CONSULTANT’s duties
and services described in this Scope of Services shall not include preparing or assisting CITY
with any portion of CITY’s preparation of a request for proposals, request for qualifications, or
any other solicitation regarding a subsequent or additional contract with CITY. CITY shall at all
times retain responsibility for public contracting, including with respect to any subsequent phase
of this project. CONSULTANT’s participation in the planning, discussions, or drawing of
project plans or specifications shall be limited to conceptual, preliminary, or initial plans or
specifications. CONSULTANT shall cooperate with CITY to ensure that all bidders for a
subsequent contract on any subsequent phase of this project have access to the same information,
including all conceptual, preliminary, or initial plans or specifications prepared by
CONSULTANT pursuant to this Scope of Services.
Task 1. Project Manageme
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Task 2. Community Outreach and Engagement
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2.2.1 Project webpage. We will support the City-hosted project website, which will serve as a public-
friendly repository for the Study, including a
We will work closely with the City to develop content based on the City’s web and design
templates and ensure that all materia -compliant and accessible.
- Our support may include the development of a webpage mockup, if needed, and simple
graphic and one or two other simple graphics.
- The webpage will also feature up to two online public surveys, which will be linked to Survey
displaying survey results.
2.2.2 Social media content. We will work with th
(non-
derings and
graphics will be prepared for social media.
2.2.3 Community Workshops.
community workshops at key intervals of the study. Our services will include detailed annotated
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consensus-
will include verbiage requiring 72-
2.2.4 Community Surveys. -based
survey. The online surveys will be hoste
automated methods for tallying and graphically displaying survey results and will be mobile-
friendly. Each online survey will include between 5-
distributed by the City in Task 2.2. We assume one round of consolidated revisions per survey.
2.2.5 -
create materials and co-
onable.
2.2.6 Reaching Disadvantaged Groups.
methods and forums to reach them “where they are.” These groups may include youth, senior
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workers and day laborers. This task will be
and Engagement Plan.
2.2.7 Local Business Engagement. We will coordinate with the City to conduct one-on-one and small
ted to
Chamber of Commerce and the local business district. We assume that the City will distribute all
tracking process outlined in the
Community Outreach and Engagement Plan to record who has received outreach materials.
2.2.8 -up Events. -up events
improvements
target audiences.
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Criteria
s
Sustainability
Safety and Health
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Constructability
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Task
-stage
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EXHIBIT B
SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCE
CONSULTANT shall perform the Services so as to complete each milestone within the number
of days/weeks specified below. The time to complete each milestone may be increased or
decreased by mutual written agreement of the Project Managers for CONSULTANT and CITY so
long as all work is completed within the term of the Agreement. CONSULTANT shall provide a
detailed schedule of work consistent with the schedule below within 2 weeks of receipt of the
notice to proceed (“NTP”) from the CITY.
Milestones
Completion
Number of Days/Weeks (as specified below)
from NTP
1. Task 1. Project Management and
Coordination
360 Working days
2. Task 2. Community Outreach and
Engagement
300 Working days
3. Task 3. Data Collection and Analysis of
Existing Conditions
100 Working days
4. Task 4. Goals and Evaluation Criteria 100 Working days
5. Task 5. Alternatives Development and
Selection of Preferred Alternatives
180 Working days
6. Task 6. Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and
Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Study
Report
120 Working days
7. Task 7. Grant Application Support 40 Working days
8.
9.
10.
Optional Schedule of Performance Provision for On-Call or Additional Services Agreements.
(This provision only applies if checked and only applies to on-call agreements per Section 1 or
agreements with Additional Services per Section 4.)
The schedule of performance shall be as provided in the approved Task Order, as detailed in
Section 1 (Scope of Services) in the case of on-call Services, or as detailed in Section 4 in the case
of Additional Services, provided in all cases that the schedule of performance shall fall within the
term as provided in Section 2 (Term) of this Agreement.
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EXHIBIT C
COMPENSATION
CITY agrees to compensate CONSULTANT for the Services performed in accordance with the
terms and conditions of this Agreement, including Services, any specified reimbursable expenses,
and Additional Services (if any, per Section 4 of the Agreement), based on the hourly rate schedule
attached as Exhibit C-1.
The compensation to be paid to CONSULTANT under this Agreement for all Services, any
specified reimbursable expenses, and Additional Services (if any, per Section 4), shall not exceed
the amount(s) stated in Section 4 of this Agreement. CONSULTANT agrees to complete all
Services, any specified reimbursable expenses, and Additional Services (if any, per Section 4),
within this/these amount(s). Any work performed or expenses incurred for which payment would
result in a total exceeding the maximum amount of compensation set forth in this Agreement shall
be at no cost to the CITY.
REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES
CONSULTANT’S ordinary business expenses, such as administrative, overhead,
administrative support time/overtime, information systems, software and hardware,
photocopying, telecommunications (telephone, internet), in-house printing, insurance and
other ordinary business expenses, are included within the scope of payment for Services and
are not reimbursable expenses hereunder.
Reimbursable expenses, if any are specified as reimbursable under this section, will be
reimbursed at actual cost. The expenses (by type, e.g. travel) for which CONSULTANT will
be reimbursed are: NONE up to the not-to-exceed amount of: $0.00.
A. Travel outside the San Francisco Bay Area, including transportation and meals, if
specified as reimbursable, will be reimbursed at actual cost subject to the City of Palo Alto’s
policy for reimbursement of travel and meal expenses.
B. Long distance telephone service charges, cellular phone service charges, facsimile
transmission and postage charges, if specified as reimbursable, will be reimbursed at actual
cost.
All requests for reimbursement of expenses, if any are specified as reimbursable under this
section, shall be accompanied by appropriate backup documentation and information.
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EXHIBIT C-1
SCHEDULE OF RATES
CONSULTANT’s schedule of rates is as follows, subject to the terms and conditions of Exhibit
C regarding Reimbursable Expenses:
KITTELSON & ASSOCIATES, INC.
BILLING RATE SCHEDULE
Effective January 1, 2024
Staff Billing Rate
Principal / Senior Principal $270 - $360
Lewis, Laurence $335
Steyn, Hermanus $335
Associate Engineer/Planner $230 - $260
Leahy, Amanda $255
Senior Engineer/Planner $200-$230
Sahimi, Michael $225
Engineer/Planner $180 - $200
Demonbreun, Ben
Kataria, Dhawal $195
$195
Mahmoud, Nada $195
Transportation Analyst $160 - $175
Principal Data Scientist/Developer $255 - $340
Senior Data Scientist/Developer $215 - $255
Data Scientist/Developer $180 - $210
Data Analyst/Software Developer $140 - $175
Software Technician $110-$135
Associate Technician $185 - $205
Senior Technician $165 - $185
Technician II $145 - $160
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Technician I $125 - $140
Office Support $100 - $120
Service & Other Direct Costs Billing Rate
Mileage Current IRS mileage rate
Travel & Other Direct Costs Actual Costs
Subconsultants Actual Costs
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EXHIBIT D
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
CONSULTANTS TO THE CITY OF PALO ALTO (CITY), AT THEIR SOLE EXPENSE, SHALL FOR THE TERM OF THE
CONTRACT OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN INSURANCE IN THE AMOUNTS FOR THE COVERAGE SPECIFIED BELOW,
AFFORDED BY COMPANIES WITH AM BEST’S KEY RATING OF A-:VII, OR HIGHER, LICENSED OR
AUTHORIZED TO TRANSACT INSURANCE BUSINESS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
AWARD IS CONTINGENT ON COMPLIANCE WITH CITY’S INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS AS SPECIFIED HEREIN.
REQUIRED TYPE OF COVERAGE REQUIREMENT
MINIMUM LIMITS
EACH
OCCURRENCE AGGREGATE
YES
YES
WORKER’S COMPENSATION
EMPLOYER’S LIABILITY
STATUTORY
STATUTORY STATUTORY STATUTORY
YES GENERAL LIABILITY, INCLUDING
PERSONAL INJURY, BROAD FORM
PROPERTY DAMAGE BLANKET
CONTRACTUAL, AND FIRE LEGAL
LIABILITY
BODILY INJURY
PROPERTY DAMAGE
BODILY INJURY & PROPERTY
DAMAGE COMBINED.
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
YES AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY,
INCLUDING ALL OWNED, HIRED,
NON-OWNED
BODILY INJURY - EACH PERSON
- EACH OCCURRENCE
PROPERTY DAMAGE
BODILY INJURY AND PROPERTY
DAMAGE, COMBINED
$1,000,000 $1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000 $1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
$1,000,000
YES PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY,
INCLUDING, ERRORS AND
OMISSIONS, MALPRACTICE (WHEN
APPLICABLE), AND NEGLIGENT
PERFORMANCE
ALL DAMAGES $1,000,000
YES THE CITY OF PALO ALTO IS TO BE NAMED AS AN ADDITIONAL INSURED: CONSULTANT, AT ITS SOLE COST
AND EXPENSE, SHALL OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN, IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE TERM
OF ANY RESULTANT AGREEMENT, THE INSURANCE COVERAGE HEREIN DESCRIBED, INSURING NOT ONLY
CONSULTANT AND ITS SUBCONSULTANTS, IF ANY, BUT ALSO, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF WORKERS’
COMPENSATION, EMPLOYER’S LIABILITY AND PROFESSIONAL INSURANCE, NAMING AS ADDITIONAL
INSUREDS CITY, ITS COUNCIL MEMBERS, OFFICERS, AGENTS, AND EMPLOYEES.
I. COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE MUST INCLUDE:
A. A CONTRACTUAL LIABILITY ENDORSEMENT PROVIDING INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR
CONSULTANT’S AGREEMENT TO INDEMNIFY CITY AS DEFINED BY AN INSURED AGREEMENT
UNDER SUCH ENDORSEMENT.
II. THE CONSULTANT MUST SUBMIT CERTIFICATES(S) OF INSURANCE EVIDENCING REQUIRED COVERAGE
AT THE FOLLOWING EMAIL: PURCHASINGSUPPORT@CITYOFPALOALTO.ORG
III. ENDORSEMENT PROVISIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE INSURANCE AFFORDED TO ADDITIONAL
INSUREDS:
A. PRIMARY COVERAGE
WITH RESPECT TO CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE NAMED INSURED,
INSURANCE AS AFFORDED BY THIS POLICY IS PRIMARY AND IS NOT ADDITIONAL TO OR
CONTRIBUTING WITH ANY OTHER INSURANCE CARRIED BY OR FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE
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ADDITIONAL INSUREDS.
B. CROSS LIABILITY
THE NAMING OF MORE THAN ONE PERSON, FIRM, OR CORPORATION AS INSUREDS UNDER
THE POLICY SHALL NOT, FOR THAT REASON ALONE, EXTINGUISH ANY RIGHTS OF THE
INSURED AGAINST ANOTHER, BUT THIS ENDORSEMENT, AND THE NAMING OF MULTIPLE
INSUREDS, SHALL NOT INCREASE THE TOTAL LIABILITY OF THE COMPANY UNDER THIS
POLICY.
C. NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
1. IF THE POLICY IS CANCELED BEFORE ITS EXPIRATION DATE FOR ANY REASON
OTHER THAN THE NON-PAYMENT OF PREMIUM, THE CONSULTANT SHALL PROVIDE
CITY AT LEAST A THIRTY (30) DAY WRITTEN NOTICE BEFORE THE EFFECTIVE DATE
OF CANCELLATION.
2. IF THE POLICY IS CANCELED BEFORE ITS EXPIRATION DATE FOR THE NON-PAYMENT
OF PREMIUM, THE CONSULTANT SHALL PROVIDE CITY AT LEAST A TEN (10) DAY
WRITTEN NOTICE BEFORE THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF CANCELLATION.
EVIDENCE OF INSURANCE AND OTHER RELATED NOTICES ARE REQUIRED TO BE
FILED WITH THE CITY OF PALO ALTO SENT TO THE FOLLOWING EMAIL:
PURCHASINGSUPPORT@CITYOFPALOALTO.ORG
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
On behalf of City Manager Ed Shikada, please see staff responses below for questions from
Council Member Tanaka on the Monday, September 9 Council Meeting.
Item 3: Approval Request for Increased Carbon Permit Budget in Response to Rising
Compliance Costs
1. Considering the recurring nature of our compliance costs, can you explain why the staff
report does not propose a multi-year emission reduction strategy to mitigate the need for
future budget increases? Specifically, what steps have been taken to ensure we won’t be
in a similar position next year, facing another request for additional funds?
Staff response: The Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) is the multi-year
emissions reduction strategy intended to achieve the community’s climate goals, and it has
the side effect of mitigating compliance costs for the carbon allowances the State requires
us to purchase on behalf of our gas customers. In each year’s budget, staff updates its
projections of compliance costs to reflect changing cap and trade program market
conditions.
2. The staff report emphasizes immediate financial compliance, but why does it lack a
detailed analysis of alternative strategies, such as investments in energy efficiency or
renewable projects, that could reduce our carbon footprint and long-term costs? Can you
clarify why these alternatives were not fully explored or integrated into the proposal,
given their potential to lower our reliance on carbon permits?
Staff response: These strategies are being pursued in parallel via the S/CAP. The ability to
avoid the cost of purchasing carbon allowances is included in financial analyses of S/CAP
programs.
3. Given Palo Alto’s reputation as a leader in sustainability, why doesn’t the staff report
address the potential reputational risks of relying heavily on permit purchases without a
corresponding increase in direct emission reduction initiatives? How does the proposal
align with our city’s long-term environmental goals and the expectations of our
community and partners, who look to us for leadership in climate action?
Staff response: As long as the community still uses natural gas, and as long as the enabling
legislation is in place, the California Air Resources Board will require the City’s gas utility to
purchase these allowances. This is unavoidable. The City will continue to aggressively seek
to reduce emissions via its S/CAP programs. Future reports on the topic of carbon allowance
purchases can note this.
Item 5: Approval for Purchase of Emergency Portable Generators for Water Utility Backup in
High-Risk Zones
1. The staff report indicates that the city plans to invest nearly $480,000 in diesel-powered
generators, yet there is no clear analysis of their alignment with Palo Alto’s aggressive
climate action goals or potential financial risks due to future emissions regulations. Can
the city manager clarify why renewable options, such as solar or hybrid generators,
weren’t seriously considered, especially given the evolving regulatory landscape around
diesel emissions? How does this decision prepare us for future environmental obligations
and potential carbon taxes?
Staff response: The project aligns with Climate Goal S7 of the City of Palo Alto 2022
Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (Collaborate on Reducing Wildfire Hazards) and the
project aligns with the City of Palo Alto Utilities Wildfire Mitigation Plan. Emission and fuel
regulations and requirements have been identified and portable trailer generators were
selected instead of permanent generators based on compliance requirements. The project
includes emission permitting and equipment maintenance for a 3-year period. The purchase
price for the generators is less than the cost to rent the generators for the same 3-year
period. Staff considered alternative solutions, however, the alternatives are either not
feasible at the site (such as solar) or not cost effective (such as batteries). Generators are
for emergency standby and as part of emergency handling it is important that equipment is
aligned citywide for response efficiency (for example, the City owns a diesel tanker that can
be used for emergency refueling if needed).
2. The staff report does not mention any public consultations or outreach to environmental
groups, particularly given the size of this investment and its long-term implications for the
community. Can you explain why there wasn’t a formal public engagement process,
especially with residents living in areas that would be directly affected by the generator
deployment? What mechanisms does the city have to ensure community input is factored
into large-scale decisions like this, especially in a city as committed to environmental
leadership as Palo Alto?
Staff response: This project was included in the City of Palo Alto Utilities Wildfire Mitigation
Plans and follows industry best practices. The two sites are abutting park land, residents will
experience no additional impact when the equipment is used. There are no residents within
¼-mile of site #1; a standby generator is already leased and on standby at Site #2,. The
impact to residents for not doing the project is water loss during an extended public safety
power shutoff (PSPS) and reduced wildfire protection. Alternative Long-term implication
would be no back-up power supply and loss of water in an emergency to two pressure
zones
3. The staff report mentions West Coast Energy Systems as the contractor of choice, yet it
omits a detailed analysis of their qualifications for handling public utility infrastructure
projects of this magnitude. Given their limited reviews, prior licensing issues, and unclear
experience with projects critical to public safety, what guarantees does the city have that
they are equipped to manage this effectively? Additionally, what specific performance
metrics, penalties, or contingencies are built into the contract to ensure accountability
and protect the city from delays, cost overruns, or performance failures?
Staff response: West Coast Energy Systems exceeds qualifications for this work. In 2011,
Water Utility Engineering Staff obtained letters of recommendation for a similar generator
projects from other utilities and have since successfully completed multiple generator
projects at Palo Alto water utility facilities, over the past 13 years. Performance metrics for
power supply and voltage drop and overall performance are specified by manufacturer.
Performance failures are covered by manufacturers warranties and guarantees. Failure to
furnish generators to site, test, and permit generators will result in no payment to West
Coast Energy Systems.
Item 7: Approval of Southern Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Project
Contract
1. Considering the limited exploration of alternative solutions in the staff report, can you
specify what other approaches, such as enhanced at-grade crossings or different location
options, were evaluated for improving safety and connectivity in Southern Palo Alto? How
did the city ensure that the chosen solution is the most strategically sound and cost-
effective, particularly considering long-term urban planning and infrastructure needs?
Staff response: The work of this alternatives analysis is the exploration of alternatives,
including an evaluation of enhanced at-grade crossings and different location options. The
City has not chosen a solution, and this project will engage with the public to identify
possible solutions for community and Council consideration.
2. The staff report doesn't provide a detailed projection of long-term maintenance costs for
the proposed grade-separated crossings. Can you provide specific figures or estimates on
these future costs and explain how they align with the city’s broader fiscal strategy? How
does the city plan to mitigate the risk of these ongoing expenses potentially diverting
funds from other critical infrastructure needs or services?
Staff response: Long-term maintenance costs and other expenses will be evaluated in Task
4.2 (Evaluation Framework and Criteria) and further detailed in Task 5.4 (Implementation
Plan), once design concepts for the grade-separated crossings are developed.
3. Given that the staff report emphasizes the project’s benefits for Southern Palo Alto
without addressing broader citywide impacts, how has the city assessed the potential risk
of public perception issues, particularly in areas that may feel underserved by this
decision? What strategic measures are in place to ensure this project does not
inadvertently create or exacerbate perceived inequities across different neighborhoods in
Palo Alto?
Staff response: The analysis builds on citywide planning studies showing that crossing
opportunities are more abundant in northern areas, particularly downtown. This project
aims to address the geographic imbalance disadvantaging Southern Palo Alto.
Item 10: Approval of Construction Contract for Cubberley Field Restroom and Repairs
1. The staff report mentions initial community engagement, yet it does not account for the
strategic importance of re-engaging the public now that the project details are clearer.
How do we ensure that moving forward without additional consultation won’t lead to
strategic misalignment with community expectations, potentially resulting in delays or
increased project costs due to subsequent revisions or public dissatisfaction?
Staff response: Staff conducts community engagement to receive community input that
helps to determine the scope of a project. Once the scope of the project is approved by
Council, staff’s further engagement is focused on communicating the impacts and progress
of the work.
2. In light of the significant cost variability, the lack of a comprehensive risk assessment on
the contractor's capability to handle this project, and the missed opportunity for strategic
community re-engagement, how can we proceed with this approval without exposing the
city to unnecessary financial and reputational risks? What strategic measures have been
put in place to address these potential vulnerabilities, and how do we justify moving
forward under these conditions?
Staff response: While the bids do exhibit variability, soliciting multiple bids is intended to
save the City money, as is the case in this instance. Staff does not see potential
vulnerabilities as stated in the question.
3. Given the substantial discrepancies in cost estimates for key components such as
mobilization and demolition, which deviate significantly from industry standards and
other bids, how confident are we that the lowest bid accurately captures the true scope
of work? Specifically, what safeguards are in place to prevent these potential
underestimations from resulting in costly change orders or budget overruns later in the
project?
Staff response: It is very common for individual components of bids to deviate substantially
from the Engineer’s bid estimates. Staff does not believe that this bid requires any
additional safeguards as the contractor is required to complete the scope of work within the
bid amount.
From:Ken Joye
To:Council, City
Subject:9 Sept meeting consent calendar item
Date:Tuesday, September 3, 2024 3:35:57 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening
attachments and clicking on links.
For the council meeting of 9 September 2024, item #7 is included under the consent calendar.
I am writing in support of Professional Services Contract Number C25191297 to allow workto begin on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing Alternatives Analysis in Southern
Palo Alto.
As you have acknowledged, the grade separation work will be highly disruptive. I hope thatwe can get ahead of the curve on that by having a sound plan in place to add
pedestrian/bicycle facilities before work begins at Meadow and Charleston. I hope that youwill find this contract uncontroversial and approve it at your meeting.
thank you for your service,
Ken JoyeVentura neighborhood, Palo Alto
agenda: <https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14393>