1-25-14101.docx

ROCKWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP No.: 25-14101

Title: Type A2 School Buses

Issue Date: October 21, 2025

This document constitutes Rockwood School District’s (hereafter called the “District” or “RSD”) Request for Proposals ("RFP") soliciting proposals from qualified individuals, firms, or organizations to lease Type A2 School Buses that are compliant with State of Missouri school bus standards as published by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and which meet the specifications described herein.

The District is only soliciting pricing for the lease of school buses which meet the specifications contained herein. The District will not accept proposals which call for the District to purchase buses or otherwise acquire ownership through a lease-purchase arrangement

Rockwood R-VI School District posts proposals and receives bid responses through an online bidding portal. Through this portal, vendors receive notifications of competitive procurement opportunities as well as submit proposals and proposals to the District digitally. In order to be invited and able to participate in District bid opportunities, vendors must register through the Rockwood School District Bonfire portal.

Vendors must follow all instructions on the portal to register and respond to bid opportunities. For questions and technical support, please refer to the “Help” or “Technical Support” links on the portal.

The portal will be used for the following activities:

· Post RFPs

· Receive and respond to questions or inquiries

· Issue associated addenda

· Submit proposals

· Post award notices

To contact the District or ask questions in relation to this RFP, Proposers must initiate the communication electronically through the “Vendor Discussions” or “Ask a Question” features. The District will not accept any respondent’s communications by any other means except as specifically stated in this RFP.

No contact with any members of the Rockwood School Board, any administrators, staff, or employees of the District is permitted before or after the completion of the RFP process. Failure to follow this directive or any attempt to contact or to influence any such person may result in rejection or disqualification of a Bid.

Any and all responses to written requests for information and questions will be in writing and will be sent to all known interested parties.

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Important Dates

RFP Issue Date October 21, 2025

Questions Due Date November 4, 2025

Proposal Due Date November 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST

Award Recommendation Submitted to BOE November 19, 2025

Expected BOE Approval Date December 4, 2025

Lease Commencement Date July 1, 2026

I. RFP INSTRUCTIONS AND CONDITIONS

1. INTRODUCTION

The District is a nationally recognized, diverse community of learners. Currently, the District serves nearly 19,000 students, made up of four high schools, six middle schools, nineteen elementary schools, a talented and gifted campus, and a school for at-risk high school students. The District employs nearly 3,500 people and covers 150 square miles in much of western St. Louis and northern Jefferson counties. The District has consistently earned the accreditation of Distinction in Performance by the Missouri Department of Education. Additional detailed information about the District may be found at www.rsdmo.org.

2. BID PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

A. Proposers must register, log in, and follow the instructions on the Rockwood School District Bonfire portal. Registration is free and is the only method by which vendors may submit responses for this bid.

B. Sealed proposals must be SUBMITTED ON THE ROCKWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT BONFIRE PORTAL only (no other location permitted), no later than the date and time specified in the RFP. NO EXCEPTIONS. The portal will not permit late submissions of proposals.

C. Your submission must be uploaded, submitted, and finalized prior to the deadline of November 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM CST. We strongly recommend that you give yourself sufficient time and at least ONE (1) day before the deadline to begin the uploading process and to finalize your submission.

D. To contact the District or ask questions related to this RFP, Proposers must initiate the communication electronically through the “Vendor Discussions” or “Ask a Question” features. The District will not accept any respondent’s communications by any other means except as specifically stated in this RFP.

E. This RFP may be amended only by addendum in accordance with this section. If the District, for any reason, determines that it is necessary to provide additional information relating to this RFP, such information will be communicated to all respondents by addendum posted on Rockwood School District’s Bonfire portal. Each addendum forms an integral part of this RFP and may contain important information, including significant changes to this RFP. Respondents are responsible for obtaining all addenda issued by the Rockwood School District.

F. Vendor questions regarding this opportunity must be submitted electronically through the “Vendor Discussions” or “Ask a Question” features by November 4, 2025. Vendors will not be able to submit messages or questions after this time.

G. Proposals shall be prepared simply but completely, providing a straightforward, concise description of capabilities to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. Emphasis should be on completeness and clarity of content. At the same time, proposals should be as thorough and detailed as possible so that the District may properly evaluate the Proposer's capabilities to provide the required services.

H. Proposers must include at least the following information, data, and responses labeled accordingly in their proposals:

(1) Proposer’s full name and principal office address, and descriptions of the type of business entity (e.g., publicly held corporation, private non-profit, proprietorship, partnership, etc.).

(2) If Proposer is incorporated, include the state in which it is incorporated and list the name and occupation of those individuals serving on the board of directors, along with the name of any entity or person owning 10% or more of the corporation.

(3) The name, title, mailing address, telephone number, fax number, and email address of the contact person for this RFP and the bid.

I. Proposer must provide a Certificate of Good Standing indicating they have filed all reports and paid the necessary fees to the Secretary of State’s office in the state where they are licensed.

J. Proposers must provide a minimum of five (5) references with names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, including specifically any governmental entities and school districts for which each Proposer has provided services.

K. Proposer must state whether they have been involved in any litigation during the last five years, and if so, describe any such litigation.

3. PRE-BID MEETING

A pre-bid meeting will not be held for these services. Clarification of bid requirements must be initiated electronically through the “Vendor Discussions” or “Ask a Question” features no later than 5:00 PM CST on November 14, 2025. Responses to the Proposers’ questions will be posted in an addendum.

4. AWARD

Award(s) will be made to the responsive and responsible Proposer(s) whose bid(s) is deemed to be most advantageous to the District, taking into account the overall content of the bid, cost, overall bid, experience, and qualifications of the firm and staff assigned and quality and content of the manner in which the services are proposed to be performed. The District reserves the right to split the award or to make multiple awards and to make award on a part or portion of a bid. The District may request additional information and/or an interview with some or all Proposers as part of the selection process. In no event shall the District be required to explain the evaluation process or award selection to any Proposer.

5. RIGHT TO REJECT

The District reserves the right to accept any bid, to reject any and all proposals, and to waive any irregularities or informalities in any proposals. Conditional proposals will not be accepted.

6. PROPOSALS FINAL

All Proposals shall be deemed final, conclusive, and irrevocable, and no Bid shall be subject to correction or amendment for any error or miscalculation.

7. COST OF PREPARATION

The cost of preparing and submitting a response to this RFP will be assumed solely by each Proposer, whether or not any agreement is signed as a result of this RFP.

8. OWNERSHIP OF SUBMITTALS

All completed Proposals submitted in response to this RFP become the property of the District upon submission. The District may use the bid for any purpose deemed appropriate. The bid material may become part of any contract between the successful Proposer and the District.

9. RFP INTERPRETATION

Interpretation of the wording of this RFP will be the responsibility of the District, and that interpretation will be final and binding.

10. PRICE

Proposers are cautioned that services must be furnished at the fees, costs, and/or rates submitted and proposed unless otherwise stated. No increase in costs will be permitted during the term of the contract.

11. CONTRACT

The Rockwood Board of Education must formally approve the award of any contract(s) or agreement to lease, with approval anticipated to be received no later than December 4, 2025. The successful Proposer may be required to enter into a written contract with the District which will include, but not be limited to, the scope of services described herein and the contract provisions included herein. It is anticipated the contract term will commence on July 1, 2026, and continue through June 30, 2030.

12. BILLING AND PAYMENT

Invoices shall be submitted directly to the Rockwood School District via email at accountspayable@rsdmo.org or mailed to the District’s Finance Office at 111 E. North St., Eureka, MO 63025. Each invoice should contain the District purchase order number, date of shipment, quantity, price, and items(s) shipped. Invoices will not become due and payable until all times listed on the invoice are received complete.

Rockwood School District’s payment terms are Net 45.

13. INSURANCE

The successful Proposer will be expected to provide the following types of insurance with the described limits:

$ 1,000,000 property damage per occurrence

$ 1,000,000 aggregate all claims per occurrence

Workers' Compensation As required by applicable law

Employer's Liability $ 1,000,000 per occurrence

Automotive Liability $ 1,000,000 per occurrence

14. TAXES

Proposers shall NOT INCLUDE FEDERAL EXCISE TAX, TRANSPORTATION TAX, or STATE RETAIL SALES TAX in their cost bid, as these taxes do not apply to the District.

15. NO PARTICIPATION

The successful Proposer shall not directly or indirectly participate as a Proposer, Proposer, or subcontractor to a Proposer or Proposer on any proposals or request for proposals to be designed or services to be provided as part of the projects contemplated by this RFP.

16. EXCEPTIONS

If a Proposer takes exception to any part of these specifications as written or as amended by any addenda subsequently issued or the Agreement, they must do so in writing. Said exceptions must be submitted with the bid. Failure to do so will be construed as acceptance of all items of the specification and the Agreement.

17. USE OF INFORMATION

A. Any specifications, drawings, sketches, models, samples, data, computer programs or documentation, or other technical or business information (“Information”) furnished or disclosed to interested parties under this RFP, or as the result of this RFP, shall remain the property of the District and, when in tangible form, all copies of such information shall be returned to the District upon request. Unless such information was previously known to a party, free of any obligation to keep it confidential, or has been or is subsequently made public by the District or a third party, it shall be held in confidence by such party, shall be used only for the purposes of this RFP, and may not be used for other purposes except upon such terms and conditions as may be mutually agreed upon in writing.

B. No specifications, drawings, sketches, models, samples, tools, or other apparatus programs, technical information, or data, written, oral, or otherwise, furnished by any interested party to the District under this RFP shall be considered to be confidential or proprietary.

18. TOBACCO-FREE DISTRICT

The Rockwood School District Board of Education has adopted a policy to provide a tobacco-free environment within Rockwood School District’s boundaries, including buildings, facilities, grounds, parking lots, etc. The use of any tobacco products by any visitor, including employees of Contractors and Subcontracts, is prohibited at all times.

II. SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction:

In order to operate a reliable and cost-effective transportation system for its students, the Rockwood School District is requesting proposals to lease buses for daily routes serving preschool students with special needs. The lease period will begin on or about July 1, 2025, which will also be the date of delivery and the first rental payment.

Rockwood School District staff will handle all maintenance, and the buses will be stored at the district’s secured bus facilities. These buses will be used to provide home-to-school transportation throughout the academic year. Vendors should submit pricing based on the specifications outlined in this document.

Lease Requirements:

The District will enter into a true municipal 5-year lease for the buses depending on available financing options viewed as the most advantageous to the District.

The District intends to lease the buses at their full value and will not consider lease structures that require a down payment. All lease proposals should clearly reflect terms based solely on the full lease value of the vehicles, without any upfront payment obligations. Any proposal including down payments or similar advance charges will be deemed non-compliant with these requirements.

Qualified bus dealers are invited to submit a proposal for the fleet and specs provided herein. Deliveries should be delivered by July 1, 2026. Dealers shall provide a delivery schedule and warranty details for each type of bus being quoted.

General Bus Requirements:

All buses must meet or exceed the Missouri 2020, or most current version, minimum school bus standards published by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for Type A2 buses. Each bus will be delivered fully inspected with inspection stickers and documentation required for state licensing.

The Buses will consist of the following:

Six (6) Type A2 buses with a seating capacity of 21+1 passengers with wheel chair lift. Two (2) seating positions will be on tracks for ease of adding or removing seats.

Six (6) Type A2 buses with a seating capacity of 22 passenger without a wheel chair lift.

All buses will be equipped with A/C (front, rear) and dash A/C for driver. 136,000 BTU minimum.

Minimum Specifications:

Type A2 – 21-Plus-One Passenger School Bus with Lift Specifications 450 Chassis/Body - 2027 Model Year

UNLEADED GASOLINE ENGINE

ENGINE, 7.3 LTR gas OR 6.6 LTR gas

TRANSMISSION, 6R140 transmission, or 6.6 LTR gas with 8-speed transmission

WHEELBASE, 158 inches axle to axle

GVWR, minimum 14,500-lb

FRONT BUMPER, heavy-duty, steel

REAR BUMPER, wrap-around, anti-ride

REAR TOW HOOKS

FRONT AXLE, minimum 5,000-lb capacity

FRONT SUSPENSION, 5,000-lb minimum capacity

REAR AXLE, minimum 9,600-lb capacity

REAR SUSPENSION, 9,600-lb minimum capacity

FRONT AND REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS

FRONT STABILIZER BAR

BRAKE SYSTEM, 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-wheel anti-lock brake system

BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK.

Vehicle will not go into gear until the parking brake is released.

POWER STEERING

TILTING STEERING COLUMN

AXLE RATIO, 4.56-1

HEADLIGHTS, halogen with Automatic Daytime Running Lights

BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK

HORN, electric

INSTRUMENTATION, speedometer

BODY CIRCUIT RELAY DISCONNECT

ACCESSORY SWITCH PANEL, located to the right of the driver for easy access

FRONT TIRES, LT225/75R16E, 10-ply all-season radial tires

DUAL REAR TIRES, LT 225/75R16E, 10-ply all-season radial tires

FRONT END ALIGNMENT, after body mounting, provide specifications

CUTAWAY BODY, 22 passengers

HEADROOM, minimum 75 inches

Integrated 5-POINT SEAT BELTS, two (2) lap shoulder belts per seat in all passenger seats

PADDED BARRIERS, in front of passenger seats

UPHOLSTERY, gray 42 oz. Fire Block on all passenger seats

INTERIOR HEADLINER, full length perforated noise reduction (can start behind the driver).

ENTRANCE DOOR, double-out, panic-free electrically operated, 24 inches wide x 73-1/2 inches tall minimum

HAND RAILS, RH & LH stainless steel at entrance steps

4 INCH HEADER BUMPER PADS, over Entrance and Emergency Doors

DRIVER’ S DOOR, with roll-up, tinted, window and key lock

DRIVER SEAT, high back seat with lap and shoulder harness

DRIVERS AIR BAG

DRIVERS CONSOLE, with storage tray

DRIVER’S ENTRANCE STEP

VISOR, driver’s sun visor

REAR EMERGENCY DOOR, w/upper and lower tinted, laminate glass: one-piece tinted, tempered glass will be acceptable; ½ inch Red Emergency Door pilot light for the driver; no ignition interlock.

INSULATION, ROOF AND SIDES, fiberglass 1.50 inch minimum to include insulated side and rear quarter panel

PLYWOOD SUB FLOOR, 1/2-inch exterior grade, screwed down

FLOOR COVERING, 1/8-inch gray flooring material, gray 3/16-inch ribbed rubber in aisle and entrance steps. One-piece flooring will be acceptable.

ALUMINUM AISLE TRIM, vinyl trim (glued down) acceptable

WINDSHIELD, tinted

WINDOWS, side and rear windows to have dark tinted laminated safety glass

WINDOWS, 12-inch split-sash windows with extruded aluminum frames, 11-inch x 36-inch curbside safety window minimum

EXTERIOR SIDE SHEET METAL, smooth with minimum 22-gauge metal thickness minimum

RUB RAILS, four (4) 16-gauge, sealed on top edge with formed drainage ports on lower edge

PAINT, EXTERIOR, to be National School Bus Yellow with black bumpers, warning lamp background and rub rails

PAINT, EXTERIOR ROOF, to be painted bright white to reduce interior temperature

PAINT, INTERIOR, to be off-white or gray

UNDERCOAT, complete body undercoat before body mounting on chassis

FANS, 6-inch center mounted auxiliary defroster fan

AIR CONDITIONING, front in-dash heater, defroster, and dual compressor A/C system. 70,000 BTU electric compressor, front and rear A/C system, w/3-fan skirt mounted condenser recessed evaporator on back wall.

Condenser must have slotted body facial cover, and inline Freon sight glass.

Must have operational thermostatic control switch. Specify brand and model number. List available options.

COOLANT CONNECTIONS, must have spring-type clamps installed

REAR HEATER, minimum 41,000 BTU; removable filter, mounted, mounted on wall behind last right-side seat preferred (under seat will be acceptable). 20kW electric heater with electric circulating pump. Specify brand and model number. List available options.

HEATER SHUT-OFF VALVES, & cooling system behind entry door under RH side. Ball valve type shut-off valve, no cable operations.

HEATER HOSE CONNECTIONS, must have thread tape applied to pipes. Brass fittings, no plastic fittings or T’s .

CROSSING GATE, solid-state “Specialty”, electric with yellow blade and bumper holder.

ROOF HATCH, Specialty Pro-Lo #9245-0300 with 2 release handles, vent system, approx. 23”x23”

ELECTRICAL ACCESS, circuit control board for all body circuits mounted on front header panel, or above left shoulder for easy access. All circuits labeled on panel cover.

INTERRUPT SWITCH, crossing gate, single cycle, with auto reset

SWITCHES, rocker-type on driver panel

STEP LIGHT, LED, wired to Clearance Lights

DRIVER DOME LIGHT, LED, door activated, and on separate switch

DOME LIGHTS, LED, minimum 4 dome lights for passengers

MARKER AND ID LAMPS, LED

LIGHTS, DIRECTIONAL, LED, side mounted, armor-type, amber, stainless steel base. One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

LIGHTS, STOP AND TAIL, LED, 7-inch, red, stainless- steel base. One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

LIGHTS, LED, Clearance and Cluster, armored and/or recessed

LIGHTS, BACKUP, LED, minimum 4 inch clear. If equipped with 7-inch light, stainless steel base required.

One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

STROBE LIGHT, LED, low-profile roof mounted, self- contained, white flashing

STOP ARM, First Light Safety luminated stop arms. 100947-000

FLASHER SYSTEM, LED, eight (8) light warning system, sequential operation, stainless steel base (2-wire assembly). One-piece, plastic LED lights acceptable.

BACKING ALARM, 112db

BACKUP CAMERA

NOISE SUPPRESSION SWITCH

MIRROR, INTERIOR, driver, 6-inch x 16 inch

MIRROR, EXTERIOR, Rosco cross view, heated, with lighted rocker switch with timer. Extra bracing/support on bumper mount.

MIRROR, EXTERIOR REARVIEW, Rosco heated, 7-inch x 10 inch flat, and 7-inch x 4-inch convex rearview mirrors minimum with remote power and timer

POST TRIP INSPECTION SYSTEM, requires driver to check bus for sleeping passengers

FIRST AID KIT, mounted on front header in a metal box.

BODY FLUID CLEAN-UP KIT, mounted on front header in a metal box.

RADIO, in-dash AM/FM with 2-speaker minimum

SAFETY TRIANGLES, mounted on left front barrier

FIRE EXTINGUISHER, 5-lb 2A-10BC minimum with flexible hose, mounted in driver area

SEAT BELT CUTTER, located in driver area

WINDSHIELD WIPERS, two-speed intermittent heavy- duty, must have wet arm with flexible blades

WINDSHIELD WASHER, with electric washers

LETTERING, All Required Lettering, (Emergency Exit lettering will be placed above exits on metal)

LETTERING, belt line, both sides, 6 inches, “ROCKWOOD R-VI SCHOOL DISTRICT”

NUMBERING, four (4) bus number locations, numbers will be identified at time of order (200-211)

REFLECTORS, All Required

REFLECTIVE MATERIAL, All Required, 3M fluorescent diamond grade

FRONT MUD FLAPS

REAR MUD FLAPS, rubber

REAR FENDERS, rubber fender extensions; ABS plastic acceptable

DELIVERED WITH NEW MISSOURI STATE INSPECTION STICKER

TWO (2) OEM SERVICE AND PARTS MANUALS

specific to delivered bus chassis, paper or CD

Powertrain warranty minimum 5 years / 100,000 miles

No vandal locks on the emergency-doors and lift doors

Type A2 – 22 Passenger School Bus Specifications 450 Chassis/Body - 2027 Model Year

UNLEADED GASOLINE ENGINE

ENGINE, 7.3 LTR gas OR 6.6 LTR gas

TRANSMISSION, 6R140 transmission, or 6.6 LTR gas with 8-speed transmission

WHEELBASE, 158 inches axle to axle

GVWR, minimum 14,500-lb

FRONT BUMPER, heavy-duty, steel

REAR BUMPER, wrap-around, anti-ride

REAR TOW HOOKS

FRONT AXLE, minimum 5,000-lb capacity

FRONT SUSPENSION, 5,000-lb minimum capacity

REAR AXLE, minimum 9,600-lb capacity

REAR SUSPENSION, 9,600-lb minimum capacity

FRONT AND REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS

FRONT STABILIZER BAR

BRAKE SYSTEM, 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-wheel anti-lock brake system.

BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK

Vehicle will not shift into gear until the parking brake is released.

POWER STEERING

TILTING STEERING COLUMN

AXLE RATIO, 4.56-1

BATTERY 12-volt, one chassis manufacturer supplied, under hood battery.

HEADLIGHTS, halogen with Automatic Daytime Running Lights

HORN, electric

INSTRUMENTATION, speedometer, BODY CIRCUIT RELAY DISCONNECT

ACCESSORY SWITCH PANEL, located to the right of the driver for easy access

FRONT TIRES, LT225/75R16E, 10-ply all-season radial tires

DUAL REAR TIRES, LT 225/75R16E, 10-ply all-season radial tires

FRONT END ALIGNMENT, after body mounting, provide specifications

CUTAWAY BODY, 22 passengers

HEADROOM, minimum 75 inches

INTEGRATED 5-POINT SEAT BELTS, two (2) lap shoulder belts per seat in all passenger seats

PADDED BARRIERS, in front of passenger seats

UPHOLSTERY, gray 42 oz. Fire Block on all passenger seats

INTERIOR HEADLINER, full length perforated noise reduction (can start behind the driver).

ENTRANCE DOOR, double-out, panic-free electrically operated, 24 inches wide x 73-1/2 inches tall minimum

HAND RAILS, RH & LH stainless steel at entrance steps

4 INCH HEADER BUMPER PADS, over Entrance and Emergency Doors

DRIVER’ S DOOR, with roll-up, tinted, window and key lock

DRIVER SEAT, high back seat with lap and shoulder harness

DRIVERS AIR BAG

DRIVERS CONSOLE, with storage tray

DRIVER’S ENTRANCE STEP

VISOR, driver’s sun visor

REAR EMERGENCY DOOR, w/upper and lower tinted, laminate glass: one-piece tinted, tempered glass will be acceptable; ½ inch Red Emergency Door pilot light for the driver; no ignition interlock.

INSULATION, ROOF AND SIDES, fiberglass 1.50 inch minimum to include insulated side and rear quarter panel

LIFT DOOR, 43-inch x 65 inch minimum located on right side behind rear axle. No ignition interlock.

WHEELCHAIR LIFT – Braun NCL1000IB3451HB-2, with handrail belt, or equivalent. Pump assembly on right side (forward of bus). Manual roll-stop instead of hydraulic with steel service handle

RESTRAINT SYSTEMS, Three (3) wheelchair and occupant restraint systems, AMF Bruns Silver series, retractable wheelchair tie-downs with J-hooks and 3- point occupant height adjuster with retractable shoulder belts, or equivalent.

STORAGE POUCH, Three (3) for storage of wheelchair and occupant restraint systems

PLYWOOD SUB FLOOR, 1/2-inch exterior grade, screwed down

FLOOR COVERING, 1/8-inch gray flooring material, gray 3/16-inch ribbed rubber in aisle and entrance steps. One-piece flooring will be acceptable.

ALUMINUM AISLE TRIM, vinyl trim (glued down) acceptable

WINDSHIELD, tinted

WINDOWS, side and rear windows to have dark tinted laminated safety glass

WINDOWS, 12-inch split-sash windows with extruded aluminum frames, 11-inch x 36-inch curbside safety window minimum

EXTERIOR SIDE SHEET METAL, smooth with minimum 22-gauge metal thickness minimum

RUB RAILS, four (4) 16-gauge, sealed on top edge with formed drainage ports on lower edge

PAINT, EXTERIOR, to be National School Bus Yellow with black bumpers, warning lamp background and rub rails

PAINT, EXTERIOR ROOF, to be painted bright white to reduce interior temperature

PAINT, INTERIOR, to be off-white or gray

UNDERCOAT, complete body undercoat before body mounting on chassis

FANS, 6-inch center mounted auxiliary defroster fan

AIR CONDITIONING, front in-dash heater, defroster, and dual compressor A/C system. 70,000 BTU electric compressor, front and rear A/C system, w/3-fan skirt mounted condenser recessed evaporator on back wall. Condenser must have slotted body facial cover, and inline Freon sight glass.

Must have operational thermostatic control switch. Specify brand and model number. List available options.

COOLANT CONNECTIONS, must have spring-type clamps installed

REAR HEATER, minimum 41,000 BTU; removable filter, mounted, mounted on wall behind last right-side seat preferred (under seat will be acceptable). 20kW electric heater with electric circulating pump. Specify brand and model number. List available options.

HEATER SHUT-OFF VALVES, & cooling system behind entry door under RH side. Ball valve type shut-off valve, no cable operations.

HEATER HOSE CONNECTIONS, must have thread tape applied to pipes. Brass fittings, no plastic fittings or T’s .

CROSSING GATE, solid-state “Specialty”, electric with yellow blade and bumper holder.

ROOF HATCH, Specialty Pro-Lo #9245-0300 with 2 release handles, vent system, approx. 23”x23”

ELECTRICAL ACCESS, circuit control board for all body circuits mounted on front header panel, or above left shoulder for easy access. All circuits labeled on panel cover.

INTERRUPT SWITCH, crossing gate, single cycle, with auto reset

SWITCHES, rocker-type on driver panel

STEP LIGHT, LED, wired to Clearance Lights

DRIVER DOME LIGHT, LED, door activated, and on separate switch

DOME LIGHTS, LED, minimum 4 dome lights for passengers

MARKER AND ID LAMPS, LED

LIGHTS, DIRECTIONAL, LED, side mounted, armor-type, amber, stainless steel base. One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

LIGHTS, STOP AND TAIL, LED, 7-inch, red, stainless- steel base. One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

LIGHTS, LED, Clearance and Cluster, armored and/or recessed

LIGHTS, BACKUP, LED, minimum 4 inch clear. If equipped with 7-inch light, stainless steel base required. One-piece, plastic LED light acceptable.

STROBE LIGHT, LED, low-profile roof mounted, self- contained, white flashing

STOP ARM, First Light Safety luminated stop arms. 100947-000

FLASHER SYSTEM, LED, eight (8) light warning system, sequential operation, stainless steel base (2-wire assembly). One-piece, plastic LED lights acceptable.

BACKING ALARM, 112db

BACKUP CAMERA

NOISE SUPPRESSION SWITCH

MIRROR, INTERIOR, driver, 6-inch x 16 inch

MIRROR, EXTERIOR, Rosco cross view, heated, with lighted rocker switch with timer. Extra bracing/support on bumper mount.

MIRROR, EXTERIOR REARVIEW, Rosco heated, 7-inch x 10 inch flat, and 7-inch x 4-inch convex rearview mirrors minimum with remote power and timer

POST TRIP INSPECTION SYSTEM, requires driver to check bus for sleeping passengers

FIRST AID KIT, mounted on front header in a metal box.

BODY FLUID CLEAN-UP KIT, mounted on front header in a metal box.

RADIO, in-dash AM/FM with 2-speaker minimum

SAFETY TRIANGLES, mounted on left front barrier

FIRE EXTINGUISHER, 5-lb 2A-10BC minimum with flexible hose, mounted in driver area

SEAT BELT CUTTER, located in driver area

WINDSHIELD WIPERS, two-speed intermittent heavy- duty, must have wet arm with flexible blades

WINDSHIELD WASHER, with electric washers

LETTERING, All Required Lettering, (Emergency Exit lettering will be placed above exits on metal)

LETTERING, belt line, both sides, 6 inches, “ROCKWOOD R-VI SCHOOL DISTRICT”

NUMBERING, four (4) bus number locations, numbers will be identified at time of order (200-211)

REFLECTORS, All Required

REFLECTIVE MATERIAL, All Required, 3M fluorescent diamond grade

FRONT MUD FLAPS

REAR MUD FLAPS, rubber

REAR FENDERS, rubber fender extensions; ABS plastic acceptable

DELIVERED WITH NEW MISSOURI STATE INSPECTION STICKER

TWO (2) OEM SERVICE AND PARTS MANUALS specific to delivered bus chassis, paper or CD

Powertrain warranty minimum 5 years / 100,000 miles

No vandal locks on the emergency-doors and lift doors.

III. CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

INTRODUCTION TO THIS SECTION

The successful Proposer will be expected to enter into a written contract with the District. The terms and conditions in this section are expected to be incorporated into any contract awarded as a result of this RFP. In submitting a bid, the Proposer agrees to the terms and conditions in this section, unless a statement is made to the contrary. Acceptance of alternate language, terms, and conditions is at the sole discretion of the District. While the exact term of the contract is subject to final determination, the successful Proposer would be expected to commence the services on or about July 1, 2026, and complete the services as mutually agreed. The following terms and conditions are not to be considered complete, and other terms and conditions will be included in any resulting contract.

WARRANTY FOR SERVICES

Contractor warrants and represents to the District that Contractor possesses the background, experience, expertise, and qualifications to undertake and to carry out the Services. Contractor further warrants and represents that the Services will be performed in a professional, good, thorough, and workmanlike manner and consistent with accepted industry standards.

INSURANCE

A. Contractor shall maintain occurrence-based insurance, including comprehensive general liability, automotive liability, and, if applicable, workers’ compensation and employers' liability in the amounts described herein. Such insurance shall be provided by insurance companies authorized to do business in the State of Missouri.

B. The District shall be included as an additional insured on all required insurance policies, except Workers’ Compensation and Employers' Liability, with respect to the liability arising out of the performance of Contractor's Services under this Agreement.

C. Certificates of insurance of Contractor's insurance coverage shall be furnished to the District at the time of commencement of the Services.

D. All such insurance shall provide notice to the District of cancellation of insurance policies thirty (30) days before such cancellation is to take effect.

TERMINATION

District may terminate this Agreement and cease payment of all or a portion of the remaining payments not dispersed to date if (i) District, in its sole discretion, is not satisfied with the quality of the work achieved under this Agreement; (ii) Contractor fails to meet the conditions set forth in this Agreement; or (iii) District or any reason, provides seven (7) business days advance written notice to Contractor of its intention to terminate this Agreement. If this agreement is terminated in accordance with this paragraph, the District shall only be required to pay the Contractor for goods or services delivered to the District prior to the termination and not otherwise returned in accordance with the District’s return policy. If the District has paid Contractor for goods or services not yet provided as of the date of termination, Contractor shall immediately refund such payments.

FORCE MAJEURE

In the event either party is unable, as a result of a Force Majeure Event, to perform Services as set forth in this Agreement, neither party shall have any liability under this Agreement with respect to one another. Neither party shall be liable to the other for any additional costs, expenses, or damages arising out of the rescheduling or cancellation of the Services pursuant to this Section. "Force Majeure Event" means unforeseeable causes beyond the parties' control and without their fault or negligence, including but not limited to governmental action or inaction, war, acts of God or the public enemy, riots, fires, floods, earthquakes, pandemics, epidemics, coronavirus, COVID-19, or any other deadly and communicable virus or disease, quarantines, strikes, lockouts, freight embargoes, electrical outage, computer or communication failures.

INDEMNITY

Contractor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the District, the members of the Rockwood Board of Education, and the District’s officers, employees, servants, and agents from and against any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs, and expenses of any kind (including, without limitation, reasonable legal fees and expenses in connection with any investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding, whether or not designated a party thereto) which may be suffered by, incurred by or threatened against the District or any members, officers, employees, servants or agents of the District on account of or resulting from injury, or claim of injury, to person or property arising from Contractor’s actions or omissions relating to this Agreement, or arising out of Contractor’s breach or failure to perform any term, covenant, condition or agreement herein provided to be performed by Contractor.

FISCAL FUNDING

While the parties intend for the term of this Agreement to be five (5) years, the term is subject to and conditioned on the appropriation, availability, and budgeting of sufficient funds. For any fiscal year of the District during the term hereof, in the event that sufficient funds are not available to the District, are not able to be appropriated by the District, or cannot be budgeted by the District for the services hereunder, the District shall have the right to terminate this Agreement upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to Contractor prior to the beginning of any such fiscal year. The District shall use reasonable efforts to avoid termination of this Agreement based on lack of fiscal funding. In the event of any such termination, the District shall pay Contractor for the services performed up to the date of termination.

GOVERNING LAW - JURISDICTION

This Agreement shall be governed, construed, and interpreted under Missouri law and shall be deemed to be executed and performed in the County of St. Louis, Missouri. Any legal action arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Missouri, and the parties agree to the exclusive exercise of jurisdiction and venue over them by a court of competent jurisdiction located in the County of St. Louis, Missouri.

REPORTING

During the term of this Agreement, Contractor shall report to, and confer with, the District’s Director of Transportation and/or their designee on a regular basis, and as may be reasonably requested, concerning the Services performed by Contractor and issues related to the Services. Contractor also agrees to meet and confer with other District administrators, officers, and employees as directed or as may be necessary or appropriate.

ASSIGNMENT

Contractor agrees, for Contractor and on behalf of Contractor’s successors, heirs, executors, administrators, and any person or persons claiming under Contractor, that this Agreement and the obligations, rights, interests, and benefits hereunder cannot be assigned, transferred, pledged, or hypothecated in any way and shall not be subject to execution, attachment, or similar process, without the express written consent of the District. Any attempt to do so, contrary to these terms, shall be null and void and shall relieve the District of any and all obligations or liability hereunder.

LICENSES AND PERMITS

Contractor shall obtain at Contractor’s expense all licenses and permits necessary to perform the Services.

CONTRACTOR REPRESENTATIONS

Contractor acknowledges and represents that (i) Contractor is legally authorized to transact business in the State of Missouri and to provide the Services required hereunder, (ii) the entering into this Agreement has been duly approved by the Contractor, (iii) the undersigned is duly authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of Contractor and to bind Contractor to the terms hereof, and (iv) Contractor will comply with all State, federal and local statutes, regulations and ordinances, including civil rights and employment laws, and agrees not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment or in the provision of Services on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age or disability. Contractor also agrees to abide by all applicable District policies and regulations.

Contractor agrees that any employee acting on behalf of the contractor and performing duties on District property will adhere to District policies related to staff conduct, including but not limited to banning the use of tobacco on District property, a drug-free workplace, and activities that could be viewed as unethical or a conflict of interest. Contractors whose staff will regularly enter school buildings will perform background screening on each staff member to ensure that they are not on a sexual offender or predator list. A complete list of District policies can be found at:

https://go.boarddocs.com/mo/rsdpa/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=C49N95589EBA.

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

The District and Contractor agree that Contractor will act for all purposes as an independent contractor and not as an employee in the performance of Contractor’s duties under this Agreement. Accordingly, Contractor shall be responsible for payment of all taxes, including federal, state, and local taxes arising out of Contractor’s Services, including by way of illustration but not limitation, federal and state income tax, Social Security tax, Unemployment Insurance taxes, and any other taxes. In addition, Contractor and Contractor’s employees shall not be entitled to any vacation, insurance, health, welfare, or other fringe benefits provided by the District. Contractor shall have no authority to assume or incur any obligation or responsibility, nor make any warranty for or on behalf of the District or to attempt to bind the District.

NON-DISCRIMINATION

The District actively follows a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, and Vietnam-Era-veteran status. The District also complies with the following laws and implementing regulations: Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 regarding race, color, national origin, religious and sex discrimination; Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 regarding sex discrimination; the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended by the ADA Amendments Act; the Missouri Humans Rights Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 regarding discrimination based on disabilities and handicaps; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; the Missouri Anti-Discrimination Against Israel Act; and other state and federal laws and regulations.

Further, Contractor certifies that it is not currently engaged in and shall not, for the duration of this Agreement, engage in a boycott of goods or services from the State of Israel; companies authorized by, licensed by, or organized under the laws of the State of Israel; or companies, persons, or entities doing business in or with the State of Israel.

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