Albany board approves purchase of 20,000 feet of aluminum utility wire from TriState

The Albany Utility Board authorized staff to purchase 20,000 feet of 1/0 aluminum utility conductor from TriState Utility Products of Marietta, Georgia, at a total contract price of $71,800.

Materials management reported that 11 vendors were solicited but only one bid was received. Staff explained that 20,000 feet is the typical on‑hand inventory level and that lead time from the vendor is roughly six to eight weeks. Warehouse staff and public‑works leaders told the board the amount typically covers about half to three‑quarters of a year’s usage depending on capital projects and storm work.

Board members asked why more vendors had not submitted bids; procurement staff said some vendors opted not to bid because they prioritize higher‑margin private customers or lacked available stock. Members also discussed storage constraints in the city warehouse and asked staff to assess whether a larger order or staggered procurement could reduce unit cost while fitting storage capacity.

The motion to enter the purchase contract with TriState was seconded and approved by roll call.

Next steps: staff will place the purchase order, monitor lead time (6–8 weeks) and report back if warehouse constraints or project schedules require changes to procurement timing.