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Authorize Sole Source Exception to Formal Bid Requirements for Purchase of SmartWorks Meter Data Management Software Solution by Resolution 2026-028
presenter
Presenter: Britt Smith, Purchasing Officer
summary
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Summary:
SmartWorks is a Meter Data Management (MDM) software solution that provides a centralized platform to collect, validate, store, and manage meter data. It integrates with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) systems to ensure accurate and reliable meter data across the utility enterprise. SmartWorks will enable advanced data analytics, improve data quality, and support seamless integration with other utility systems. By centralizing meter data, it will enhance operational efficiency, improve reporting and billing processes, support outage and usage analysis, and provide better visibility for informed decision-making.
During the project's investigation phase, the Applications Team from the City of Lexington Utility Services Administration department evaluated multiple Meter Data Management (MDM) solutions to determine the best fit for the City’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Cayenta environment. Through direct discussions and technical review, it was determined that SmartWorks is uniquely capable of supporting full MultiSpeak integration, a critical requirement for seamless, reliable, and standards-based interoperability with Cayenta. Additionally, given the City’s existing investment in multiple N. Harris Computer Corporation solutions, SmartWorks presents the lowest risk option, reducing integration complexity, implementation timelines, and overall project costs. Based on this evaluation, staff concluded that SmartWorks is the only solution that fully satisfies the City’s technical, operational, and financial requirements, thereby justifying a sole-source procurement approach.
Resolution 2026-004 was presented to Council on February 9, 2026, to authorize this same sole-source exception; however, the scope of that Resolution did not encompass key elements of the SmartWorks solution that are necessary for full integration and compatibility of the solution, specifically the software licensing (SAAS) and maintenance for years two through five of the contracts. This Resolution intends to incorporate all necessary elements of the SmartWorks solution in the Sole Source Exception to NCGS 143-129(e)(6).’
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Recommendation:
Consider the adoption of RESOLUTION 2026-028 to authorize sole-source exception to formal bid requirements to purchase SmartWorks Meter Data Management Software Solution for the Utilities Services Administration department, utilizing the sole source exception under NCGS 143-129(e)(6) to the formal bidding requirements of NCGS 143-129, and authorizing the Mayor to execute the agreement.
recommendation
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CITY OF LEXINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA
RESOLUTION 2026-028
RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE SOLE SOURCE EXCEPTION TO FORMAL BID REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PURCHASE OF SMARTWORKS METER DATA MANAGEMENT (MDM) SOFTWARE SOLUTION FOR THE CITY OF LEXINGTON UTILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT AND REFERENCE RESOLUTION 2026-004
WHEREAS, the Applications Team from the City of Lexington Utility Services Administration department evaluated multiple Meter Data Management (MDM) solutions to determine the best fit for the City’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Cayenta environment; and
WHEREAS, the Applications Team determined that SmartWorks is uniquely capable of supporting full MultiSpeak integration, a critical requirement for seamless, reliable, and standards-based interoperability with Cayenta. Additionally, given the City’s existing investment in multiple N. Harris Computer Corporation solutions, SmartWorks presents the lowest risk option, reducing integration complexity, implementation timelines, and overall project costs. Based on this evaluation, staff concluded that SmartWorks is the only solution that fully satisfies the City’s technical, operational, and financial requirements, thereby justifying a sole-source procurement approach; and
WHEREAS, the City of Lexington intends to purchase SmartWorks meter data management software solution to interface with the various AMI systems utilized by the City of Lexington Utilities and interconnect with the City of Lexington’s utility billing system, Cayenta; and
WHEREAS, Resolution 2026-004 did not incorporate key elements of the SmartWorks solution that are necessary for full integration and compatibility of the solution, specifically the software licensing (SAAS) and maintenance for years two through five of the contract. It is the intention of Resolution 2026-028 to incorporate all necessary elements of the SmartWorks solution in the Sole Source Exception to NCGS 143-129(e)(6); and
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute 143-129(e)(6) authorizes sole source contracts when: (1) Performance or price competition for a product are not available: (2) A needed product is available from only one source of supply; or (3) Standardization or compatibility is the overriding consideration; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to utilize the sole source exception NCGS 143-129(e)(6) to the formal bidding requirements of NCGS 143-129 to purchase SmartWorks products & solutions for the City of Lexington Utilities Administration Services department.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Lexington that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign and execute the contract between SmartWorks, a division of Harris Corporation and the City of Lexington for the SmartWorks Meter Data Management Software Solution as authorized under NCGS 143-129(e)(6) as a Sole Source provider of the materials and services described in said request.
Adopted this 14th day of September 2026.
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Jason Hayes, Mayor
ATTEST:
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Emily M. Jackson, CMC, NCCMC
City Clerk