Title
Consider a memorandum/resolution authorizing a proposal to purchase an Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System at Robert Gray Army Airfield under the Intergovernmental Support Agreement with Fort Cavazos, in the amount of $800,000.
Body
DATE: December 3, 2024
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Mike Wilson, Executive Director of Aviation
SUBJECT: PURCHASE OF AN AIRFIELD LIGHTING CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEM
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
On June 18, 2024, the City Council approved a resolution allowing the City of Killeen to enter into an Intergovernmental Support Agreement (IGSA) with Fort Cavazos to provide new and expanded airfield maintenance services for Robert Gray Army Airfield (RGAAF) and Yoakum Defrenn Army Heliport (YDAH). The IGSA became effective October 1, 2024. Under the IGSA, Fort Cavazos DPW is contracting with the City of Killeen Aviation Department to purchase, install, and maintain a new Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System. Fort Cavazos is funding the entire project, in the amount of $800,000, as part of its commitment to ensuring reliable and efficient airfield operations.
The Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS) manages the airfield's critical lighting infrastructure, including runway and taxiway lights, approach lights, and apron lighting. This system provides centralized control and monitoring, allowing operators to adjust lighting levels based on visibility conditions and real-time operational needs, ensuring safe and efficient airfield operations.
The existing ALCMS is outdated, and the manufacturer no longer provides support. As a result, the system has become increasingly unreliable, requiring frequent manual interventions by staff. Temporary "band-aid" fixes are being applied to maintain functionality, but this approach is inefficient and not sustainable long-term. The ongoing degradation of the system poses significant operational risks and could compromise airfield safety and efficiency without a proper upgrade.
The objective of this project is to replace the outdated ALCMS with a modern, fully supported system that enhances reliability, safety, and operational efficiency. The new system will provide seamless lighting control, real-time monitoring, and the flexibility to adapt to varying conditions. Through this IGSA partnership, the City of Killeen Aviation Department will manage the bidding, purchase, installation, and ongoing maintenance of the new ALCMS. With Fort Cavazos funding the project, this collaborative effort will ensure both military and civilian airfield operations are supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
N/A
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
N/A
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This item conforms to local and state policies.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the revenue/expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
The expenditure for the current fiscal year is $800,000.
Is this a one-time or recurring revenue/expenditure?
This is a one-time expenditure.
Is this revenue/expenditure budgeted?
Yes, fund balance is available and will be appropriated upon approval of an accompanying budget amendment.
If not, where will the money come from?
Fort Cavazos DPW is providing the funds for this project not to exceed $800,000. City of Killeen Aviation Department will invoice Fort Cavazos DPW.
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this revenue/expenditure?
Yes, fund balance is available and will be appropriated upon approval of an accompanying budget amendment in account number 340-56315-900-600-924016.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends City Council authorize a proposal to purchase an Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System at Robert Gray Army Airfield under the Intergovernmental Support Agreement with Fort Cavazos, in an amount not to exceed $800,000, and that the City Manager or designee be authorized to execute any and all contract documents in accordance with state and local law.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Finance
Legal
Purchasing
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Presentation