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CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION FOR THE PURCHASE OF CHILDREN’S EARLY LITERACY PANELS FROM TMC FURNITURE, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $40,000 FOR NORMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY EAST.
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BACKGROUND: As part of the furniture and fixtures included in the East Library project, the design and installation of children’s early literacy panels was envisioned for Library patrons. The design and specifications for these panels was developed by the East Library architect, Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd. (MSR) and will be incorporated as part of the East Library project.
DESCRIPTION: These early literacy panels will be utilized in the encouraging of early childhood literacy, and will incorporate a number of artistic and custom elements in conjunction with the design and natural elements of the East Library. A detailed estimate and description of the panels is included in the attached quote from TMC Furniture, Inc.
Because of the unique/custom design features and desired thematic approach to these panels, TMC Furniture, Inc. was selected to manufacture and install them. Section 8-204(b)(2) of the Code of the City of Norman authorizes the City Council to waive competitive bidding for the purchase of supplies, materials, equipment, or contractual services which can be furnished only by a single dealer or which have a uniform price wherever bought. TMC, Inc. is also the sole provider of these types of panels and can sell directly to the City of Norman/Norman Municipal Authority. A letter from TMC Furniture, Inc. outlining these sole source provisions is also included in this item.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Norman Municipal Authority approve the purchase of the specified children’s literacy panels as proposed by TMC Furniture, Inc in the amount of $40,000. Funds for these panels are available in the furniture budget for the East Library Project, Materials (account 051-9507-455.63-01; project NFB017).