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AGENDA ITEM NO. 18.
CITY OF HAWTHORNE City Council AGENDA BILL For the meeting of 04/08/2025 Originating Department: Information Technology |
City Manager:
Department Head:
SUBJECT:
Point-to-Point Wireless Microwave Replacement Project
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the purchase of the listed hardware and services.
DISCUSSION:
The Information Technology Services (ITS) Department maintains a wireless point-to-point microwave networking system that supports all City facilities. This infrastructure provides essential data connectivity for phones, internet access, email, and all other network-based resources used across City operations. Currently, the network segments that connect the Memorial Center & Sports Center, Hawthorne Airport Control Tower, Hawthorne Airport Administration Building, and Eucalyptus Park have been in service for 7 to 10 years. The equipment is now outdated and no longer supported by the manufacturer. With replacement parts becoming unavailable, any hardware failure would significantly disrupt internal communications and impact City operations at the remote sites.
This project will replace the aged microwave equipment with modern hardware capable of delivering speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second and provide all FCC frequency coordination services. The upgrade will improve data capacity, enhance network reliability, and ensure secure data transmission using current encryption standards. It will also return the system to full manufacturer warranty and support coverage. This solution continues to avoid the high and recurring costs associated with leasing services from telecommunications providers. For example, a comparable leased line from a provider would average approximately $2,800 per month per side of each link. By owning and maintaining the infrastructure, the City saves considerable money in the long term, gains operational flexibility, and retains full control of its internal data pathways. This upgrade ensures that City facilities remain reliably connected, secure, and positioned to meet future needs.
This project will replace the aged microwave equipment with modern hardware capable of delivering speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second and provide all FCC frequency coordination services. The upgrade will improve data capacity, enhance network reliability, and ensure secure data transmission using current encryption standards. It will also return the system to full manufacturer warranty and support coverage. This solution continues to avoid the high and recurring costs associated with leasing services from telecommunications providers. For example, a comparable leased line from a provider would average approximately $2,800 per month per side of each link. By owning and maintaining the infrastructure, the City saves considerable money in the long term, gains operational flexibility, and retains full control of its internal data pathways. This upgrade ensures that City facilities remain reliably connected, secure, and positioned to meet future needs.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
None. Funds for this payment in the amount of $45,512.64 are available in the adopted Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget under the Public Works Equipment account.
NOTICING PROCEDURE:
72 hours posted notice pursuant to the Ralph M. Brown Act