Professional Services (WS1273310369) - Approve spending authority in the total amount of $61,218.00 for the purchase of online continued education courses for EMT’s and Paramedics from Career Stop dba Lexipol Holding Company for the Houston Fire Department (HFD).
Specific Explanation:
The Chief of the Houston Fire Department and the Chief Procurement Officer recommend that City Council approve spending authority for the purchase of online continued education courses for EMT’s and Paramedics from Career Stop dba Lexipol Holding Company in the amount of $61,218.00 for HFD and that authorization be given to issue a purchase order.
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) requires a specific number of hours of continuing education (CE) for EMT's and Paramedics. HFD currently fulfills this requirement through online training courses from Career Stop dba Lexipol Holding Company, which provides DSHS approved CE courses, which allow for various certifications to remain current for the 3800 staff members. This purchase will be for a term of 12 months, expiring on September 30, 2025.
There is currently an RFP for emergency medical services tracking system (software) and online continuing education training in process, with the intention to enter a contract for these services. However, the RFP will not be complete before the current online education service expires on September 30, 2024. Procurement of this service will ensure there is no disruption in the continuing education compliance which could result in loss of certification for the HFD members involved.
This recommendation is made pursuant to subsection 252.022(a)(4) of the Texas Local Government Code, which provides that “a procurement for personal, professional, or planning services” is exempt from the competitive requirements for purchases.
MWBE Participation:
This procurement is exempt from the City’s MWBE subcontracting as the total project expenditure does not exceed the $100,000.00 City’s threshold.
Hire Houston First:
This procurement is exempt from the City’s Hire Houston First Ordinance. Bids/proposals were not solicited because the department utilizes a professional service contractor for this purchase.
Fiscal Note:
Funding for this item is included in the FY25 Adopted Budget. Therefore, no Fiscal Note is required as stated in the Financial Policies.
______________________________________ ______________________________
Jedediah Greenfield, Chief Procurement Officer Department Approval Authority
|
Estimated Spending Authority:
|
|
Department
|
FY2025
|
Out Years
|
Total
|
|
Houston Fire Department
|
$61,218.00
|
$0.00
|
$61,218.00
|