2-SS Letter.pdf

This is a sole source justification letter from Harvest Quest Compost Holdings to Hillsborough County, Florida, confirming the proprietary nature of the Harvest Quest inoculant product required for the County's composting facility operations. The letter, dated January 7, 2026, is addressed to Diana Davila Gonzalez at Hillsborough County's procurement office and serves as supporting documentation for a sole source procurement recommendation. Harvest Quest inoculant is a unique consortium of enzyme-producing bacteria and numerous strains of fungi designed to function optimally across fluctuating operational conditions, including seasonal feedstock changes and varying weather patterns. The product is manufactured, sold, and distributed exclusively by Harvest Quest Compost Holdings, doing business as HQ Compost Holdings, LLC, with no authorized agents or dealers permitted to represent or resell the product.

The letter establishes that no alternative products or suppliers can meet the same functional requirements as the Harvest Quest inoculant, which has been integral to the County's Modified Static Aerobic Pile (MSAP) composting process and maintains EPA Region IV and Florida DEP approval. The sole source procurement is valued at an estimated $515,625.00 over a five-year period and is conducted in accordance with Section 3-205(2)(a) of Hillsborough County's Procurement Policy. The County reserves the right to extend the contract period, adjust the scope of services based on changing operational conditions, and increase the award as necessary. Interested parties or those seeking additional information regarding the product specifications and procurement details may contact Mark Allen, Sales and Support, at 440-477-5539 or Mark.allen@harvestquest.com.