Title/Name/Summary
Storz Nozzle Conversion Program - Material Purchase
History
In 2021, a Village-wide fire hydrant conversion program was established for replacing standard pumper nozzle hookups with Storz nozzles. Utilization of Storz nozzles expedite fire department response times. Rather than threading on an adapter plate (risking cross threading), the Storz allows for a fast “quarter-turn” connection. Quick-connect couplings save considerable amount of time for firefighters when they are connecting hose fittings, and this might further save their lives and the lives of Orland Park residents in case of an emergency.
Conversions began primarily in recent water main replacement subdivisions. Utilities staff have had discussions with Orland Fire Protection District leadership prior to starting any of this work, and they are very happy to see our support to help expedite emergency response. We have also worked with the Engineering Department to change the hydrant code to have any new development areas to provide new hydrants with Storz as standard.
The Village currently has approximately four thousand nine hundred seven (4,907) hydrants on our water system. While the goal is for all hydrants to have a Storz connection, staff are concentrating on commercial and industrial areas first. To date, four hundred thirty-one (431) Storz Nozzle conversions have been successfully completed. This purchase will allow for one hundred fifty (150) hydrants to be converted in 2025, and bring 11.8% of hydrants to this standard.
EJ USA is the supplier of Village of Orland Park Fire Hydrants, hardware, and replacement parts, and is considered a sole source for this purchase.
Financial Impact
Funds for Storz Nozzles in the amount of $60,000 were included in the FY 2025 budget in G/L.
Recommended Action/Motion
I move to approve the waiver of the competitive bid process and authorizing the approval and execution of a vendor contract with EJ USA for the purchase of one hundred fifty (150) Storz nozzles for the FY25 Pumper Nozzle Conversion Program for a total not-to-exceed contract price of $60,000.00;
AND
Authorize the Village Manager to execute all related contracts, subject to Village Attorney review.