Transition of TO Live 2024-2033 Capital Budget and Plan - Non-Competitive Contract with Joel Theatrical for Rigging System Upgrades at the Meridian Arts Centre

In line with City Council's direction via item EX19.20 St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts - Enhanced State of Good Repair Strategy , City staff representing Corporate Real Estate Management, Purchasing and Materials Management, and Legal Services have been working collaboratively with TO Live on a transition process to transfer the oversight of the implementation of TO Live's 2025-2034 Capital Budget and Plan, as well as future capital plans, from TO Live to Corporate Real Estate Management. While the work through the transitionary period continues, a non-competitive purchase was required on an emergency basis to ensure the completion of a critical upgrade to the rigging system at the Meridian Arts Centre. Prior to the adoption of EX19.20, TO Live conducted a procurement process to select a rigging services vendor (Joel Theatrical) to complete critical upgrades. However, with the adoption of EX19.20, oversight of capital projects, including the ability to award the rigging services contract, was transferred from TO Live to Corporate Real Estate Management, before the contract could be awarded. In consultation with Purchasing and Materials Management, it was determined that a non-competitive agreement between Corporate Real Estate and the vendor was the appropriate procurement tool to ensure the supply and installation of the rigging systems upgrades without further delay. This work mitigates potential health and safety risks and avoids business interruption. Reporting back to City Council is required in accordance with Municipal Code Chapter 195, Purchasing, Article 7, Section 195-7.4(B) where a non-competitive contract over $500,000 is entered into on an emergency basis.