Thursday, March 13, 2008

A real life RFI response!

I got the following from an email I received from Rich Ogurick earlier today (email addresses deleted):

Here is what you get when you send a "request for information" to a pool enclosure vendor.

Rich

From: the Gavin's
To: ogurick@aol.com
Sent: Mon, 10 Mar 2008 2:49 pm
Subject: Fw: OpenAire Estimate

From: "Robert Christie"
To: "David Gavin"
Sent: Monday, March 03, 2008 1:58 PM
Subject: OpenAire Estimate

Re: BUDGET ESTIMATE, Cheshire Pool
Location: Cheshire, CT
Date: 03/03/08

Dear David
The approximate value for the OpenAire enclosure would be $2,875,000 (based on the size you thought most appropriate). This enclosure is estimated to be 105'x218'(18 Bays) with 14' high sidewalls to the work point, gable structure with a 4/12 roof pitch, two full gable ends by OpenAire. A connecting building measuring 24'x20' with 8' sidewalls would abut this structure joining it to the existing change rooms.

This estimate is in accordance with the attached sketch dated 29/02/08. Installation is by OpenAire's non-union crew, if union rates are applicable the estimated price would be affected. This estimate is based on the assumption that the project site is easily accessible and that there is a suitable staging area available. Poor site conditions may effect the cost.

This estimate includes the design, fabrication and installation of the OpenAire building. The structure is of OpenAire's exclusive, thermally broken aluminum frame. The roof would be glazed with 1" (25mm) polycarbonate and would contain thirty two (32) operable roof panels (opening up to 50% of the rafter length). The vertical areas would be glazed with 1" (25mm) insulating glass, typically in the form of sliding glass doors. OpenAire's standard bay spacing is 12' on center.

This estimate does not include;
1) Supporting foundation
2) Heating and dehumidification systems or lighting.
3) Taxes.
4) Permits and bonds.
5) Power to the control panel.
6) Final cleaning.
7) Installation of wiring between enclosure and control box should box be located beyond the enclosure.

This budget estimate is based on today's dollars and inflation should be taken into account if the project is further out.

I trust that this is to your satisfaction.

Sincerely

Robert Christie
(613) 476-4534
www.openaire.com


Despite the fact that they had no real interest in understanding the meaning of the fund balance terminology, they did insist on understanding the meaning of the term RFI. Maybe it's just me, but I figured "request for information" was obvious, while "designated unreserved fund balance" may require a bit more thought.

Seriously though... who among you believes that this RFI example (from the "Cadillac" of pool enclosures) will be sufficient for the Council to adopt my motion at the next meeting?

Tim White

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

About 4 years ago I started a study to reduce the energy costs of the pool. The end result was a pool report I presented to the Energy Commission and subsequently the report was given to the Park & Rec Commission, Town Council in 2005. The report listed several options including a full enclosure from OpenAire, dehumidification, reverse flow for water filtration and more. The report was also sent to the pool consultant. The message is if you want an RFI you can get one. Any company that wants to really work with you to resolve a problem will do.

Anonymous said...

What part of "RFI" didn't the TM and the D"S understand? The "R", "F" or "I"? Any fifth grader would have been able to vote on it. Give us a break. The public does pay attention. Do something with the Pool....