HomeMy WebLinkAboutPR 24703: SOLCO GROUP FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO ASSIST WITH CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT FOR WATER METER AND AMI SYSTEM REPLACEMENT / UPGRADE PROJECT r64"1
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INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Date: December 17, 2025
To: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
Through: Ronald Burton, CPM, City Manager
From: Calvin Matthews, P.E., Water Utilities Director
RE: PR 24703 —The Solco Group of Port Arthur, Texas for Professional Services to
Assist with Construction Management for the Water Meter and AMI System
Replacement/Upgrade Project
Introduction:
The intent of this Agenda Item is to seek the City Council's approval for the City Manager to
enter into a professional services agreement with The Solco Group of Port Arthur,Texas to assist
with construction management for the Water Meter and AMI System Replacement/Upgrade
Project in a total amount of$134,805.00.
Background:
As per Resolution No. 25-451, the Water Meter and AMI System Replacement/Upgrade
Project was awarded to Ferguson Enterprises LLC, dba Ferguson Waterworks.
As per Resolution No. 24-213, City Council authorized the pre-qualifications of engineering
firms for the purpose of providing professional engineering services,which included The
Solco Group of Port Arthur, Texas. They have submitted a professional services agreement in
the total not-to-exceed amount of$134,805.00 to help City Staff manage the Water Meter and
AMI System Replacement/Upgrade project including field inspections and pay application
review.
Budget Impact:
The total budgetary impact is $134,805.00 and is available in Account No. 405-40-000-8516-
00-00-000, Project No. WS0031.ENG
Recommendation:
It is recommended that City Council approve Proposed Resolution No. 24703 authorizing the
City Manager to enter into a professional service agreement with The Solco Group of Port
Arthur, Texas as described/outlined above.
"Remember,we are here to serve the Citizens of Port Arthur"
P.O.Box 1089 X Port Arthur,Texas 77641-1089 X 409.983.8101 X FAX 409.982.6743
PR No. 24703
12/17/25 cm
Page 1 of 3
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
WITH THE SOLCO GROUP, LLC OF PORT ARTHUR,
TEXAS TO ASSIST WITH THE CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT OF THE WATER METER AND AMI
SYSTEM REPLACEMENT/UPGRADE PROJECT, IN THE
TOTAL AMOUNT OF$134,805.00.FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE
IN ACCOUNT NO. 405-40-000-8516-00-00-000, PROJECT NO.
WS0031.ENG.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 25-451, the Water Meter and AMI
Replacement/Upgrade project was awarded to Ferguson Enterprises LLC, dba Ferguson
Waterworks; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 24-213, City Council authorized the pre-
qualification of thirteen (13) engineering firms, which included The Solco Group of Port Arthur.
Texas, for the purpose of providing professional engineering services; and,
WHEREAS,The Solco Group of Port Arthur, Texas has submitted a professional services
agreement for a 400-calendar day contract period in the not-to-exceed amount of$134,805.00 to
help City Staff manage the Water Meter and AMI System Replacement/Upgrade project including
field inspections and pay application review.
NOW THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PORT ARTHUR,TEXAS:
THAT,the facts and recitals in the preamble are true and correct; and,
THAT, the City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute a Professional
Services Agreement,in substantially the same form attached as Exhibit"A",with The Solco Group
of Port Arthur,Texas to assist with construction management for the Water Meter and AMI System
Replacement/Upgrade project, for a 400-calendar day contract period in the total not-to-exceed
PR No. 24703
12/17/25 cm
Page 2 of 3
amount of $134,805.00 with funding available in Account No. 405-40-000-8516-00-00-000,
Project No. WS0031.ENG; and,
THAT, a copy of the caption of this Resolution shall be spread upon the Minutes of the
Meeting of the City Council.
READ, ADOPTED, AND APPROVED this day of , 2026
at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Port Arthur, Texas by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor
Councilmembers:
NOES:
CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS:
Charlotte M.Moses
Mayor
ATTEST:
Sherri Bellard
City Secretary
PR No. 24703
12/17/25 cm
Page 3 of 3
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Roxann Pais Cotroneo
City Attorney
APPROVED FOR ADMINISTRATION:
arPt (---V-iji—C/4e_,
Ronald Burton, CPM
City Manager
l,.
Suhail Kanwar, P.E.
Director of Public Service
alvin Matthews, P.E.
Water Utilities Director
APPROVED AS TO THE AVAILABILITY
OF FUNDS:
Ly n Boswell, A CMA-C /
Finance Director
Clifton E. Williams Jr. CPPB
Purchasing Manager
Exhibit "A"
(The Solco Group Professional Service Agreement)
STATE OF TEXAS § CITY OF PORT ARTHUR,TEXAS
§ AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §
This Agreement for Professional Services("Agreement")is made by and between the City
of Port Arthur,Texas,a Texas home-rule municipality located in Jefferson County,Texas("City"),
and The Solco Group,LLC(TSG)("Professional")(individually,each a"Party"and collectively,
"Parties"), acting by and through the Parties' authorized representatives.
Recitals:
WHEREAS, City desires to engage the services of Professional as an independent
contractor and not as an employee in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in this
Agreement; and
WHEREAS, Professional desires to render professional services in accordance with the
terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in exchange for the mutual covenants set forth herein and other
valuable consideration, the sufficiency and receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties
agree as follows:
Article I
Employment of Professional
Professional will perform as an independent contractor for all services under this
Agreement to the prevailing professional standards consistent with the level of care and skill
ordinarily exercised by members of Professional's profession, both public and private, currently
practicing in the same locality under similar conditions including but not limited to the exercise of
reasonable, informed judgments and prompt, timely action. If Professional is representing this it
has special expertise in one or more areas to be utilized in the performance of this Agreement,then
Professional agrees to perform those special expertise services to the appropriate local, regional
and national professional standards.
Article II
Term
2.1 The term of this Agreement shall begin on the date of execution by all parties and
the work will begin upon the issuance of the Notice to Proceed by the City(the"Effective Date")
and shall remain in effect for a period of 400 calendar days or until services are complete,including
the time necessary to develop the project deliverables, subject to change upon request or mutual
agreement(s).
2.2 Professional may terminate this Agreement by giving thirty(30)days prior written
notice to City. In the event of such termination by Professional, Professional shall be entitled to
compensation for services satisfactorily completed in accordance with this Agreement prior to the
date of such termination.
2.3 City may terminate this Agreement by giving ten (10) days prior written notice to
Professional. In the event of such termination by City, Professional shall be entitled to
compensation for services satisfactorily completed in accordance with this Agreement prior to the
date of such termination. Upon receipt of such notice from City, Professional shall immediately
terminate working on, placing orders or entering into contracts for supplies, assistance, facilities
or materials in connection with this Agreement and shall proceed to promptly cancel all existing
contracts insofar as they are related to this Agreement.
2.4 Upon notice of termination by Professional or City,Professional shall immediately
surrender all project documents produced by Professional and its subcontractors up to and
including the date on which termination notice was given.
Article III
Scope of Services
3.1 Professional shall perform the services specifically set forth in Exhibit A, attached
hereto and incorporated herein by reference,entitled"Scope of Services." In case of conflict with
the language of Exhibit A and the provisions of this Agreement, the provisions of this Agreement
shall control. Any additional services require the prior approval of the City Council of the City.
3.2 The Parties acknowledge and agree that any and all opinions provided by
Professional represent the best judgment of Professional.
Article IV
Schedule of Work
4.1 Professional agrees to commence services upon written direction from City and to
complete the tasks set forth in Exhibit A, Scope of Services, in accordance with a work schedule
established by City(the"Schedule"),which is attached hereto and incorporated as Exhibit A.
4.2 In the event Professional's performance of this Agreement is delayed or interfered
with by acts of City or others, Professional may request an extension of time for the performance
of same as hereinafter provided, and City shall determine whether to authorize any increase in fee
or price, or to authorize damages or additional compensation as a consequence of such delays,
within a reasonable time after receipt of Professional's request.
4.3 No allowance of any extension of time,for any cause whatsoever, shall be claimed
or made by Professional, unless Professional shall have made written request upon City for such
extension not later than five(5)business days after the occurrence of the cause serving as the basis
for such extension request, and unless City and Professional have agreed in writing upon the
allowance of such additional time.
Page 2 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
Article V
Compensation and Method of Payment
5.1 City shall pay Professional for the services specifically as set forth in ExhibitA and
in accordance with the Rate Schedule in an amount not to exceed$134,805.00 for said services.
5.2 Each month Professional shall submit to City an invoice supporting the amount for
which payment is sought. Each invoice shall also state the percentage of work completed on the
Project through the end of the then submitted billing period,the total of the current invoice amount,
and a running total balance for the Project to date.
5.3 Within thirty (30) days of receipt of each such monthly invoice, City shall make
monthly payments in the amount shown by Professional's approved monthly invoice and other
documentation submitted.
5.4 Professional shall be solely responsible for the payment of all costs and expenses
related to the services provided pursuant to this Agreement including, but not limited to, travel,
copying and facsimile charges,reproduction charges, and telephone, internet, e-mail,and postage
charges, except as set forth in Exhibit A.
5.5 Nothing contained in this Agreement shall require City to pay for any services that
are unsatisfactory as determined by City or which is not performed in compliance with the terms
of this Agreement,nor shall failure to withhold payment pursuant to the provisions of this section
constitute a waiver of any right, at law or in equity, which City may have if Professional is in
default, including the right to bring legal action for damages or for specific performance of this
Agreement. Waiver of any default under this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any
subsequent default.
Article VI
Devotion of Time,Personnel, and Equipment
6.1 Professional shall devote such time as reasonably necessary for the satisfactory
performance of the services under this Agreement. City reserves the right to revise or expand the
scope of services after due approval by City as City may deem necessary, but in such event City
shall pay Professional compensation for such services at mutually agreed upon charges or rates, a
copy of the Rate Schedule is attached hereto as Exhibit A,and within the time schedule prescribed
by City, and without decreasing the effectiveness of the performance of services required under
this Agreement. In any event, when Professional is directed to revise or expand the scope of
services under this Agreement, Professional shall provide City a written proposal for the entire
costs involved in performing such additional services. Prior to Professional undertaking any
revised or expanded services as directed by City under this Agreement, City must authorize in
writing the nature and scope of the services and accept the method and amount of compensation
and the time involved in all phases of the Project.
Page 3 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
6.2 It is expressly understood and agreed to by Professional that any compensation not
specified in this Agreement may require approval by the City Council of the City of Port Arthur
and may be subject to current budget year limitations.
6.3 To the extent reasonably necessary for Professional to perform the services under
this Agreement, Professional shall be authorized to engage the services of any agents, assistants,
persons, or corporations that Professional may deem proper to aid or assist in the performance of
the services under this Agreement. The cost of such personnel and assistance shall be borne
exclusively by Professional.
6.4 Professional shall furnish the facilities,equipment,telephones,facsimile machines,
email facilities, and personnel necessary to perform the services required under this Agreement
unless otherwise provided herein.
Article VII
Relationship of Parties
7.1 It is understood and agreed by and between the Parties that in satisfying the
conditions and requirements of this Agreement, Professional is acting as an independent
contractor,and City assumes no responsibility or liability to any third party in connection with the
services provided by Professional under this Agreement. All services to be performed by
Professional pursuant to this Agreement shall be in the capacity of an independent contractor, and
not as an agent, servant, representative, or employee of City. Professional shall supervise the
performance of its services and shall be entitled to control the manner, means and methods by
which Professional's services are to be performed, subject to the terms of this Agreement. As
such, City shall not train Professional, require Professional to complete regular oral or written
reports, require Professional to devote his full-time services to City, or dictate Professional's
sequence of work or location at which Professional performs Professional's work, except as may
be set forth in Exhibit A.
Article VIII
Insurance
8.1 Before commencing work, Professional shall, at its own expense, procure, pay for
and maintain during the term of this Agreement the following insurance written by companies
approved by the state of Texas and acceptable to City. Professional shall furnish to the City
Manager certificates of insurance executed by the insurer or its authorized agent stating coverages,
limits, expiration dates and compliance with all applicable required provisions. Certificates shall
reference the project/contract number and be addressed as follows:
City of Port Arthur,Texas
Attention: Ron Burton, City Manager
444 4th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640-1089
Page 4 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
A. Commercial General Liability insurance, including, but not limited to
Premises/Operations, Personal & Advertising Injury, Products/Completed Operations,
Independent Contractors and Contractual Liability,with minimum combined single limits
of $500,000 per occurrence, $500,000 Products/Completed Operations Aggregate, and
$500,000 general aggregate. Coverage must be written on an occurrence form. The
General Aggregate shall apply on a per project basis.
B. Workers' Compensation insurance with statutory limits; and Employers'
Liability coverage with minimum limits for bodily injury: 1)by accident, $100,000 each
accident, and 2) by disease, $100,000 per employee with a per policy aggregate of
$500,000.
C. Business Automobile Liability insurance covering owned, hired and non-
owned vehicles, with a minimum combined bodily injury and property damage limit of
$500,000 per occurrence.
D. Professional Liability Insurance to provide coverage against any claim
which the Professional and all professionals engaged or employed by the Professional
become legally obligated to pay as damages arising out of the performance of professional
services caused by error,omission or negligent act with minimum limits of$1,000,000 per
claim, $1,000,000 annual aggregate.
NOTE:If the insurance is written on a claims-made form,coverage shall be continuous(by
renewal or extended reporting period) for not less than thirty-six (36) months
following completion of this Agreement and acceptance by City.
8.2 With reference to the foregoing required insurance, Professional shall endorse
applicable insurance policies as follows:
A. A waiver of subrogation in favor of City, its officials, employees, and
officers shall be contained in the Workers' Compensation insurance policy.
B. The City, its officials, employees and officers shall be named as additional
insureds on the Commercial General Liability policy, by using endorsement CG2026 or
broader.
C. All insurance policies shall be endorsed to the effect that City will receive
at least thirty(30) days notice prior to cancellation, non-renewal, termination, or material
change of the policies.
8.3 All insurance shall be purchased from an insurance company that meets a financial
rating of B+VI or better as assigned by A.M. Best Company or equivalent.
Page 5 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
Article IX
Right to Inspect Records
9.1 Professional agrees that City shall have access to and the right to examine any
directly pertinent books, documents, papers and records of Professional involving transactions
relating to this Agreement. Professional agrees that City shall have access during normal working
hours to all necessary Professional facilities and shall be provided adequate and appropriate work
space in order to conduct audits in compliance with the provisions of this section. City shall give
Professional reasonable advance notice of intended audits.
9.2 Professional further agrees to include in subcontract(s),if any, a provision that any
subcontractor agrees that City shall have access to and the right to examine any directly pertinent
books, documents, papers and records of such subcontractor involving transactions related to the
subcontract, and further, that City shall have access during normal working hours to all such
subcontractor facilities and shall be provided adequate and appropriate work space, in order to
conduct audits in compliance with the provisions of this section. City shall give any such
subcontractor reasonable advance notice of intended audits.
Article X
Miscellaneous
10.1 Entire Agreement. This Agreement and any and all Exhibits attached hereto
constitutes the sole and only agreement between the Parties and supersedes any prior or
contemporaneous understandings,written agreements or oral agreements between the Parties with
respect to the subject matter of this Agreement.
10.2 Authorization. Each Party represents that it has full capacity and authority to grant
all rights and assume all obligations granted and assumed under this Agreement.
10.3 Assignment. Professional may not assign this Agreement in whole or in part
without the prior written consent of City. In the event of an assignment by Professional to which
the City has consented, the assignee shall agree in writing with the City to personally assume,
perform,and be bound by all the covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement.
10.4 Successors and Assigns. Subject to the provisions regarding assignment, this
Agreement shall be binding on and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective heirs,
executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns.
10.5 Governing Law and Exclusive Venue. The laws of the State of Texas shall govern
this Agreement, and exclusive venue for any legal action concerning this Agreement shall be in a
District Court with appropriate jurisdiction in Jefferson County, Texas. The Parties agree to
submit to the personal and subject matter jurisdiction of said court.
10.6 Amendments. This Agreement may be amended only by the mutual written
agreement of the Parties.
Page 6 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
10.7 Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this
Agreement shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect by a
court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any
other provision in this Agreement,and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid,illegal,
or unenforceable provision had never been contained in this Agreement.
10.8 Survival of Covenants and Terms. Any of the representations, warranties,
covenants,and obligations of the Parties,as well as any rights and benefits of the Parties,pertaining
to a period of time following the termination of this Agreement shall survive termination,
including,but not limited to, Section 3.3,Article X, and, in particular, Sections 10.13 and 10.14.
10.9 Recitals. The recitals to this Agreement are incorporated herein.
10.10 Notice. Any notice required or permitted to be delivered hereunder may be sent by
first class mail, overnight courier or by confirmed telefax or facsimile to the address specified
below, or to such other Party or address as either Party may designate in writing, and shall be
deemed received three (3)days after delivery set forth herein:
If intended for City:
City of Port Arthur, Texas
444 4th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640
Attn: Ron Burton, City Manager
Copy to:
City of Port Arthur, Texas
444 4th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640 Attn:
Roxann Pais Cotroneo, City
Attorney
If intended for Professional:
10.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed by the Parties hereto in separate
counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be deemed an original, but all
such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may
consist of any number of copies hereof each signed by less than all,but together signed by all of,
the Parties hereto.
10.12 Exhibits. The exhibits attached hereto are incorporated herein and made a part
hereof for all purposes.
10.13 Professional's Liability. Acceptance of the Project Documents by City shall not
constitute nor be deemed a release of the responsibility and liability of Professional,its employees,
Page 7 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
associates, agents or subcontractors for the accuracy and competency of their designs, working
drawings, specifications or other documents and work; nor shall such acceptance be deemed an
assumption of responsibility by City for any defect in the Project Documents or other documents
and work prepared by Professional, its employees, associates, agents or sub-consultants.
10.14 Indemnification. PROFESSIONAL AGREES TO INDEMNIFY AND HOLD
HARMLESS CITY FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES, DAMAGES,
CLAIMS,SUITS,COSTS(INCLUDING COURT COSTS,REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S
FEES AND COSTS OF INVESTIGATION)AND ACTIONS BY REASON OF INJURY TO
OR DEATH OF ANY PERSON OR DAMAGE TO OR LOSS OF PROPERTY TO THE
EXTENT CAUSED BY PROFESSIONAL'S NEGLIGENT PERFORMANCE OF
SERVICES UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR BY REASON OF ANY ACT OR OMISSION
ON THE PART OF PROFESSIONAL, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, SERVANTS,
AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, CONTRACTORS,
SUBCONTRACTORS, LICENSEES, SUCCESSORS OR PERMITTED ASSIGNS
(EXCEPT WHEN SUCH LIABILITY, CLAIMS, SUITS, COSTS, INJURIES, DEATHS
OR DAMAGES ARISE FROM OR ARE ATTRIBUTED TO THE NEGLIGENCE OF
THE CITY). IF ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING SHALL BE BROUGHT BY OR
AGAINST CITY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUCH LIABILITY OR CLAIM, THE
PROFESSIONAL, ON NOTICE FROM CITY, SHALL DEFEND SUCH ACTION OR
PROCEEDINGS AT PROFESSIONAL'S EXPENSE, BY OR THROUGH ATTORNEYS
REASONABLY SATISFACTORY TO CITY. PROFESSIONAL'S OBLIGATIONS
UNDER THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE LIMITED TO THE LIMITS OF COVERAGE
OF INSURANCE MAINTAINED OR REQUIRED TO BE MAINTAINED BY
PROFESSIONAL UNDER THIS AGREEMENT. IF THIS AGREEMENT IS A
CONTRACT FOR ENGINEERING OR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, THEN THIS
SECTION IS LIMITED BY, AND TO BE READ AS BEING IN COMPLIANCE WITH,
THE INDEMNITY SPECIFIED IN § 271.904 OF THE TEXAS LOCAL GOVERNMENT
CODE, AS AMENDED. THIS SECTION SHALL SURVIVE TERMINATION OF THIS
AGREEMENT
10.15 Conflicts of Interests. Professional represents that no official or employee of City
has any direct or indirect pecuniary interest in this Agreement. Any misrepresentation by
Professional under this section shall be grounds for termination of this Agreement and shall be
grounds for recovery of any loss, cost, expense or damage incurred by City as a result of such
misrepresentation.
10.16 Default. If at any time during the term of this Agreement,Professional shall fail to
commence the services in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement or fail to diligently
provide services in an efficient, timely and careful manner and in strict accordance with the
provisions of this Agreement or fail to use an adequate number or quality of personnel to complete
the services or fail to perform any of Professional's obligations under this Agreement, then City
shall have the right, if Professional shall not cure any such default after thirty (30) days written
notice thereof, to terminate this Agreement. Any such act by City shall not be deemed a waiver
of any other right or remedy of City. If after exercising any such remedy due to Professional's
nonperformance under this Agreement, the cost to City to complete the services to be performed
Page 8 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
under this Agreement is in excess of that part of the contract sum which as not theretofore been
paid to Professional hereunder, Professional shall be liable for and shall reimburse City for such
excess costs.
10.17 Confidential Information. Professional hereby acknowledges and agrees that its
representatives may have access to or otherwise receive information during the furtherance of
Professional's obligations in accordance with this Agreement, which is of a confidential, non-
public or proprietary nature. Professional shall treat any such information received in full
confidence and will not disclose or appropriate such Confidential Information for Professional's
own use or the use of any third party at any time during or subsequent to this Agreement. As used
herein, "Confidential Information"means all oral and written information concerning the City, its
affiliates and subsidiaries, and all oral and written information concerning City or its activities,
that is of a non-public,proprietary or confidential nature including,without limitation,information
pertaining to customer lists, services,methods,processes and operating procedures, together with
all analyses,compilations,studies or other documents,whether prepared by Professional or others,
which contain or otherwise reflect such information. The term "Confidential Information" shall
not include such information that is or becomes generally available to the public other than as a
result of disclosure to Professional, or is required to be disclosed by a governmental authority
under applicable law.
10.18 Remedies. No right or remedy granted or reserved to the Parties is exclusive of
any other right or remedy herein by law or equity provided or permitted; but each right or remedy
shall be cumulative of every other right or remedy given hereunder. No covenant or condition of
this Agreement may be waived without written consent of the Parties. Forbearance or indulgence
by either Party shall not constitute a waiver of any covenant or condition to be performed pursuant
to this Agreement.
10.19 No Third Party Beneficiary. For purposes of this Agreement, including the
intended operation and effect of this Agreement, the Parties specifically agree and contract that:
(1)this Agreement only affects matters between the Parties to this Agreement, and is in no way
intended by the Parties to benefit or otherwise affect any third person or entity notwithstanding the
fact that such third person or entity may be in contractual relationship with City or Professional or
both;and(2)the terms of this Agreement are not intended to release,either by contract or operation
of law, any third person or entity from obligations owing by them to either City or Professional.
[The Remainder of this Page Intentionally Left Blank]
Page 9 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
EXECUTED this day of ,2026
CITY:
CITY OF PORT ARTHUR,TEXAS,
A Texas home-rule municipality,
By:
Ronald"Ron"Burton,City Manager
ATTEST:
Sherri Bellard,City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Roxann Pais Cotroneo, City Attorney
EXECUTED this day of , 2026.
PROFESSIONAL:
The Solco Group,LLC (TSG)
By:
By:
Kelvin L. Solco,P.E.,MBA
Principal/Project Manager
Page 10 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
Exhibit A
Scope of Services
TSG will provide services including,but not limited to:
• Development and maintenance of a Water Meter Progress Tracking Database(Excel
format)-TSG will create,update,and manage a detailed installation progress spreadsheet
that documents meter locations, installation status, contractor activity, exceptions, and
milestone performance trends to support ongoing decision-making.
• Project management and contractor coordination - TSG will monitor contractor
progress, conduct coordination calls, resolve scheduling conflicts, and ensure alignment
with project specifications, safety expectations, and required installation procedures for
timely project execution.
• Payment application review and verification - TSG will verify contractor invoice
quantities, confirm field-installed materials, match reported progress to project records,
and ensure payments reflect accurate and legitimate earned work.
• First-level technical support and communication assistance - TSG will serve as an
initial point of contact for basic installation issues,documentation questions,and contractor
inquiries while elevating unresolved concerns to City staff as appropriate.
• Periodic field representation and installation review oversight-TSG will perform on-
site presence to observe installation practices, document field conditions, review meter
setting accuracy, and report any deficiencies requiring corrective action.
• Spot-check inspections for commercial and industrial meter sites - TSG will perform
targeted inspections of large-meter installations to verify correct sizing,proper alignment,
appropriate safety clearances, and compliance with manufacturer and AMI system
requirements.
• Change order review,validation,and resolution recommendations-TSG will evaluate
contractor-requested scope changes, verify field conditions, review pricing justification,
and recommend approval,modification, or denial based on documented evidence and City
interests.
• Weekly status reporting and updated project dashboard - TSG will summarize
progress,challenges,upcoming work activities,installation counts,and key milestones into
a clear,concise weekly report.
• Staff extension support functions as needed -TSG will support City Water Utility staff
by assisting with documentation,communications,meeting preparation,internal briefings,
and project recordkeeping to ensure continuity throughout the contract duration.
Page 11 of 11
City of Port Arthur, Texas
Professional Services Agreement
trAll
THE SOLCO GROUP, LLC
PROJECT PLANNING/ENGINEERING/RESEARCH/ADVICE/CONSULTING
January 14, 2026
Calvin Matthews, P.E.
Director of Water Utilities
Jess Liao,P.E.
Assistant Director/Engineering Manager
City of Port Arthur—Water Utilities Department
444 4th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640
Subject: Proposal for Water Meter and AMI System Replacement / Upgrade Program -
Project Management,Installation Tracking,and Staff Extension Support Services-Proposal
No. TSG2025-02-1284
Dear Ms. Liao (Jess),
The Solco Group, LLC (TSG) is pleased to submit this proposal to provide project management,
field coordination, installation tracking, and program reporting support for the City of Port
Arthur's Water Meter and AMI System Replacement/Upgrade Program. TSG proposes to serve as
an extension of City staff over a 400-calendar day contract period, assisting with installation
oversight, progress database maintenance, payment verification, contractor coordination, field
representation, and change order review. Our goal is to ensure accurate documentation, timely
communication, and a smooth, accountable project delivery process.
Scope of Services
TSG will provide services including,but not limited to:
• Development and maintenance of a Water Meter Progress Tracking Database(Excel
format)-TSG will create,update,and manage a detailed installation progress spreadsheet
that documents meter locations, installation status, contractor activity, exceptions, and
milestone performance trends to support ongoing decision-making.
• Project management and contractor coordination - TSG will monitor contractor
progress, conduct coordination calls, resolve scheduling conflicts, and ensure alignment
with project specifications, safety expectations, and required installation procedures for
timely project execution.
• Payment application review and verification - TSG will verify contractor invoice
quantities, confirm field-installed materials, match reported progress to project records,
and ensure payments reflect accurate and legitimate earned work.
THE SOLCO GROUP,LLC 549 4th Street,Suite 209A,Port Arthur, TX 77640
W WW.Th eSo l coGro u p.com
k _104411 THE SOLCO GROUP, LLC
PROJECT PLANNING/ENGINEERING/RESEARCH/ADVICE/CONSULTING
• First-level technical support and communication assistance - TSG will serve as an
initial point of contact for basic installation issues,documentation questions,and contractor
inquiries while elevating unresolved concerns to City staff as appropriate.
• Periodic field representation and installation review oversight-TSG will perform on-
site presence to observe installation practices, document field conditions, review meter
setting accuracy, and report any deficiencies requiring corrective action.
• Spot-check inspections for commercial and industrial meter sites - TSG will perform
targeted inspections of large-meter installations to verify correct sizing, proper alignment,
appropriate safety clearances, and compliance with manufacturer and AMI system
requirements.
• Change order review,validation,and resolution recommendations-TSG will evaluate
contractor-requested scope changes, verify field conditions, review pricing justification,
and recommend approval,modification,or denial based on documented evidence and City
interests.
• Weekly status reporting and updated project dashboard - TSG will summarize
progress,challenges,upcoming work activities,installation counts,and key milestones into
a clear, concise weekly report.
• Staff extension support functions as needed -TSG will support City Water Utility staff
by assisting with documentation,communications,meeting preparation, internal briefings,
and project recordkeeping to ensure continuity throughout the contract duration.
The total Estimated Professional Services Fee is $134,805.00. The rates in this proposal for
services rendered by TSG or TSG affiliates are guaranteed for one year. It is also understood that
services rendered by TSG can be accomplished with typical office supplies and basic mobile
technologies such as a laptop computer and cell phones. If additional information is needed to
complete the scope of services,all necessary project files,drawings,archived city ordinances,and
other relevant documentation must be provided by the City of Port Arthur(if applicable).
TSG will typically perform 100% of the work under this proposal for this specific project.
Occasionally we may consult with other affiliates if necessary. All other applicable services and
agreements are explained in THE SOLCO GROUP, LLC ADVISORY / CONSULTING
AGREEMENT enclosed with this letter. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Kelvin L. Solco, PE,MBA
Principal Project Engineer
The Solco Group,LLC
THE SOLCO GROUP,LLC 549 4th Street,Suite 209A,Port Arthur, TX 77640
WWW.TheSolcoGroup.com
IFIG
THE SOLCO GROUP, LLC
PROJECT PLANNING/ENGINEERING/RESEARCH/ADVICE/CONSULTING
Fee Structure—400-Calendar Day Contract
Water Department-Water Project
Principal Project
Meter and AMI System project Manager/ Assistant/ Admin
Replacement/Upgrade Manager Program Inspector Support
Program-Task/Work Item- Manager
TSG: 2025-10-1285 (PE) (PM) (Intern)
Water Meter Progress Tracking
Database (Excel)Development
&Updates 4 10 2 2
Contractor Coordination&
Project Management Meetings 24 57 32
Field Site Visits & Periodic
Installation Observations 57 114 114
Payment Application Review&
Quantity Verification 24 57 57
Commercial/Industrial Meter
Spot-Check Inspections 57 57 28
Change Order Review&
Technical Recommendations/
Support 60 80 28
Weekly Status Reports &
Dashboard Updates 29 57 57
Staff Extension Support&
Ongoing Communication
Assistance 24 24 24 24
Administrative Support/
Invoicing/Documentation, etc. 6 0 0 31
TOTALS 285 456 342 57
Subtotals $55,575.00 $61,560.00 $13,680.00 $3,990.00
Total Estimated Professional
Services $134,805.00
Notes:
1.(*)Recommended minimum contract amount.
2.Additional fees for TSG affiliates may be added(if necessary)at rates to be determined.
3.Payment term will be Net(30)Thirty from the date of the invoice.
Thank you for allowing TSG to serve you.
THE SOLCO GROUP,LLC 549 4th Street,Suite 209A,Port Arthur, TX 77640
WWW.TheSolcoGroup.com