NEWS NEEDED AND SHARED

The meeting was brought to order at 2 p.m. by Margarita Lee, Chair. There were 11 members and two guest speakers present for this meeting.

Following our traditional introduction of members, our guest speakers were Troy Kissell, Acct. Rep. and Larry Johns, Dist. Sales Mgr., from "Hagemeyer". Hagemeyer, a significant supplier in Homeland Security, fire and safety products, was recently awarded an advantageous U.S. Communities Contract (competitively awarded agreement #RQ06-814063-10A). Both speakers noted that their company offers 1.6 million products, from 1600 product manufacturers. They have nine locations in California, with three service centers (for on-site service; repairs; maintenance; calibration), with the closest located in Torrance.

Their contract offers participants a '39%' off discount from list pricing. They stressed that the contract offers participants "Best Value" pricing, and eliminates the need to obtain three bids.

Angel Nunez, a new attendee from the City of El Monte, discussed his recent efforts to assist his city in acquiring "Emergency Satellite Telephones".

Tracy Hamilton of Irvine, spoke about the growth/expansion of activity occurring in the open areas of Irvine.

Christine Roberto of Norwalk, spoke about the lead activities she is handling in training city staff on new automation/technology products to enhance operations to their citizens.

Cynthia Duprey of South Gate spoke about their city's potential use of Ebay for surplus auctioneering disposal of rather unique property (items). A group discussion followed relative to methods other members utilize for their respective agencies. The liability, indemnification, and paper-processing aspects to complete such a sale/disposal were considered.

Additionally, a brief discussion of "Do Not Call - Cell Phone Lists" and possible "Judgment" issues involving the Blackberry units was discussed. Another possible unit to consider is the 'Trail 770' - windows compatible (no 2-way communication capability).

Bill Gellman, City of Brea, was voted the new L.A.M.P.P.A.C. Secretary, to take over the duties from deceased former Secretary Mike Hunter. Bill questioned members about: 1) being 'vested' or 'at-will'; 2) receiving pay for performance; 3) being part of a recognized bargaining unit. As the CAPPO State Purchasing Conference was at the end of January '06, in San Diego, L.A.M.P.P.A.C. did not meet in January '06.

Our next meeting is scheduled for March 1, 2006, at 2 p.m. at the Lakewood Civic Center - Conference Room.

Reporting,
Bill Gellman Secretary