Catholic board approves $361K for new printers, photocopiers
By Samantha Johnson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on April 13, 2023.
reporter@medicinehatnews.com The Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education agreed to release more than $350,000 to purchase new photocopiers and printers for the division. The current machines are five years old and are experiencing numerous issues and malfunctions. A request for proposals was issued to replace the fleet and five proponents responded, although one withdrew. A selection committee with representatives from across the division was created. After presentations were given to the committee, photocopiers and printers were installed in selected schools for a two-week trial. The committee met at the end of the process and evaluated the machines using various criteria, such as support, service, price and functionality. Konica Minolta scored the highest and is the successful proponent. The existing Xerox photocopiers and printers have no economic value and the hard drives will be destroyed to eliminate any privacy issues. Xerox was one of the proponents for the new fleet but were unsuccessful. Two motions were passed by the board. The first to award the RFP to Konica Minolta for $361,282 plus GST. The second to transfer $303,388 from the restricted reserve. The remaining $57,894 will be taken from unrestricted net assets. Schools and the division office will be charged an annual amortization expense for the fleet so the restricted reserve can be replenished. 7-6
