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Request by the Department of Public Works Business Manager to execute a three-year contract for uniform and mat rental and laundering services with Vestis Uniforms and Workplace Supplies in the amount of $15,000
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Submitted by:
Kristen Kilsdonk
Department:
Department of Public Works
A. Issue
Vestis Uniforms and Workplace Supplies (Vestis) currently provides uniform and mat rental and laundering services at the Public Works building and Police Department. As the current agreement operates on a year-to-year basis, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued to explore a longer-term contract and secure updated pricing.
B. Background/Options
An RFP was issued on March 17, 2025, with responses due by April 15, to solicit proposals for uniform and mat rental and laundering services. The RFP specified a three-year contract term, with two optional one-year renewal periods, and included detailed inventory, quality, and service expectations to guide vendor responses. Proposals were received from the following vendors and evaluated by City staff based on cost and the completeness of their submissions:
- Alsco
- Cintas
- Gunderson
- Unifirst
- Vestis
Vestis submitted the lowest bid and offers pricing through the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement under a multi-year contract. Additionally, the agreement includes the assignment of a dedicated route driver and expanded service to include uniforms for the Fire Department mechanic, with delivery to Fire Station 51. Awarding the contract to Vestis is expected to result in cost savings over the current year-to-year arrangement, while also improving consistency and service accountability. Based on this evaluation, City staff recommends proceeding with a three-year contract with Vestis in the amount of $15,000 per year.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
N/A
D. Fiscal Impact
Actual costs may vary based on the quantity of mats and uniforms determined necessary following an inventory re-evaluation at the start of the contract. However, based on the pricing provided in the Vestis RFP response, the City anticipates a total cost reduction of approximately $10,000 compared to current budgeted expenditures. This anticipated savings will be reflected in the upcoming annual budget approval process.
E. Recommendation
Authorize the execution of a three-year agreement with two one-year renewal options with Vestis for uniform and mat rental and laundering services in the amount of $15,000 per year.