Rhode Island’s Alarm Installation Project: A Saga of Delays and disputes
Table of Contents
- 1. Rhode Island’s Alarm Installation Project: A Saga of Delays and disputes
- 2. A Rocky Start
- 3. Missed Deadlines and mounting Frustrations
- 4. Blame and Counter-Blame
- 5. What’s Next?
- 6. What factors do experts beleive contributed to the slow progress of Rhode Island’s alarm installation project?
What was supposed to be a straightforward upgrade to security systems across Rhode Island’s state beaches and parks has turned into a tangled web of delays, legal battles, and finger-pointing. Nearly two-and-a-half years into a $115,000 contract awarded in 2022, the project remains far from completion, wiht only nine out of 38 sites fully operational.The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is now attempting for the second time to terminate its contract with Security Solutions, the company tasked with the installation.
A Rocky Start
The project’s troubles began almost immediately after Security Solutions,led by former Rhode Island state Police trooper Kenneth Marandola,jr.,was awarded the five-year contract.Christopher Morra, owner of National Security, the previous contractor, filed a protest claiming the bid process was unfair.“It should have never been awarded to this company,” Morra stated, arguing that Security Solutions lacked the proper credentials.
Though Morra’s protest was dismissed in court, the dispute didn’t end there. Security Solutions filed its own complaint to prevent National Security from removing wiring from DEM buildings, claiming the wires should remain.The state eventually paid Security Solutions an additional $28,500 to resolve the issue and install new wiring.
Missed Deadlines and mounting Frustrations
By December 2023, DEM had filed its first breach of contract complaint against Security Solutions, citing incomplete work and failure to meet requirements. The company countered, accusing DEM of “unwarranted bias” and claiming the agency’s bid language was “ambiguous.” DEM Director Terry Gray,however,maintained that the expectations were clear. “I thought we were pretty clear,” Gray remarked in an interview.
Despite multiple extensions, progress remained sluggish. By October 2024, only eight sites were completed. State inspectors also found that only one of four Security Solutions workers on-site held the necessary licenses, further complicating matters. In December 2024, DEM moved to terminate the contract for the second time, citing ongoing performance and scheduling issues.
Blame and Counter-Blame
Marandola has placed much of the blame on National Security, accusing the company of delaying the removal of its systems and wires. “Our hands are tied. We have to wait on them,” he said. Meanwhile, Morra denies these claims, stating, “Not at all,” when asked if his company was dragging its feet.
Adding to the drama, state electrical inspectors issued a violation and a $1,500 fine to Security Solutions in October 2024 after discovering the company lacked a required license at the time of the bid. Security Solutions argued it had used a properly licensed subcontractor,but whether this is permissible remains a point of contention.
What’s Next?
With the project in disarray, DEM is now seeking to restart the bidding process and have Security Solutions remove all installed systems. “We want to get a fresh start,” Gray told reporters. The agency has assured taxpayers that it is indeed only paying contractors for the buildings where their systems are operational, avoiding double payments.
As the saga continues,one thing is clear: what began as a routine upgrade has become a cautionary tale about the complexities of public contracts and the importance of clear interaction and accountability.
What factors do experts beleive contributed to the slow progress of Rhode Island’s alarm installation project?
interview with John Carter, Security Systems Expert and Consultant
By Archyde News
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Carter. As a seasoned security systems expert with over 20 years of experience, you’ve seen your fair share of large-scale projects. Rhode island’s alarm installation project has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Can you give us your perspective on what might have gone wrong?
John Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s always unfortunate when a project like this, which is meant to enhance public safety, becomes mired in delays and disputes. From what I’ve gathered, the issues seem to stem from a combination of poor planning, communication breakdowns, and possibly unrealistic expectations. A $115,000 contract for 38 sites is ambitious, to say the least. When you factor in the complexity of installing systems in diverse environments like beaches and parks, the budget and timeline may have been underestimated from the start.
Archyde: The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is now attempting to terminate its contract with Security Solutions for the second time. What are the implications of this move?
John Carter: Terminating a contract is never an easy decision, especially when it’s the second attempt. It suggests a complete breakdown in trust and collaboration between the parties. For the DEM, this means starting over with a new contractor, which will likely result in further delays and additional costs. For Security Solutions, it could damage their reputation and lead to legal battles over breach of contract. Ultimately, the biggest losers are the taxpayers and the public, who are left waiting for improved security at these sites.
Archyde: The project was supposed to be completed in two-and-a-half years, but only nine out of 38 sites are operational. What challenges do you think contributed to this slow progress?
John Carter: There are several potential challenges here.First, environmental factors—beaches and parks are exposed to harsh weather conditions, which can complicate installations and require more durable equipment. Second, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including local authorities and environmental groups, can slow things down. Third, if the contractor underestimated the scope of work or lacked the necessary expertise, that would naturally lead to delays. legal disputes and funding issues can bring a project to a standstill.
Archyde: What advice would you give to the DEM as they look for a new contractor to complete the project?
john Carter: My advice would be to conduct a thorough review of what went wrong this time and use those lessons to inform the next steps. They should ensure the new contractor has a proven track record with similar projects and the capacity to handle the scale and complexity of this one. Clear communication, realistic timelines, and a detailed project plan are essential. It’s also crucial to build in contingencies for unexpected challenges, whether they’re technical, environmental, or logistical.
Archyde: Looking ahead, do you think this project can still be salvaged, or is it a lost cause?
John Carter: It’s definitely salvageable, but it will require a fresh approach and a commitment from all parties to prioritize the public interest. The DEM needs to act decisively to appoint a competent contractor and provide the necessary oversight to keep the project on track. While there will undoubtedly be additional costs and delays, the end result—enhanced security for Rhode Island’s beaches and parks—is worth the effort.
Archyde: Thank you, Mr. Carter, for your insights.We hope the DEM takes your advice to heart and that this project can finally move forward.
John Carter: Thank you. I share that hope and look forward to seeing a positive resolution for the people of Rhode Island.
end of Interview
This interview highlights the complexities of large-scale security projects and underscores the importance of careful planning, communication, and collaboration to avoid the pitfalls that have plagued Rhode Island’s alarm installation project.
