The City is in need of procuring an online and IVR (Interactive Voice Response) payment processing service. This service will provide online and IVR payment functionality for both utility and other non-utility payment types such as licenses and permits.
This contract continues the convenience fee model that is currently in place but also offers an option to move to an absorbed model in the future. Staff will bring options forward during the budget process for the City Council's consideration. This contract results in a reduction of the convenience fees when compared to the existing contract which ends in May 2023. Details of the fee structure options are attached.
The contract will be purchased through TIPS contract – TIPS 22105. Per section 8.06.004, Paragraph 4 of the City Code states competitive bidding is not required when purchases are made through a cooperative contract established by a government purchasing entity or cooperative. The cooperative bids used will have been established pursuant to RSMo. 70.220 or generally accepted governmental purchasing practices through the competitive bidding process.
In the event a decision is made to adopt an absorbed fee model, the fee schedule would be as follows:
