VENDOR: _____________________

COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT NO. 502

RFP NUMBER: 2027-R0001

GAS KILN, FURNISH AND INSTALL

PROPOSALS DUE: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2026, AT 1:00 P.M. CENTRAL TIME

In the event of College closure due to inclement weather, RFP deadline will be extended to the next business day at the same time.

RETURN

PROPOSALS TO: COLLEGE OF DUPAGE PROCUREMENT SERVICES

INSTITUTIONAL RESOURCE CENTER (IRC), ROOM 1001

425 FAWELL BLVD.

GLEN ELLYN, ILLINOIS 60137

ATTENTION: RFP NO. 2027-R0001

Issue Date: September 11, 2026

ISSUED BY THE COLLEGE OF DUPAGE PROCUREMENT SERVICES

RFP No. 2027-R0001

Procurement Services 425 Fawell Boulevard Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137-6599 http://www.cod.edu

PHONE (630) 942-2217

September 11, 2026

INVITATION FOR RFP

Sealed proposals for Furnishing and Installation of a Gas Kiln, will be received between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time by the College of DuPage, District 502, at the Office of the Procurement Manager, Institutional Resource Center (IRC) Building, Room 1001, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, until Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time, at which time they will be publicly opened. In the event of College closure due to circumstance outside of the College’s control, the RFP deadline will be extended to the next business day at the same time.

Any proposal received after the date and time stated above will be returned unopened. College of DuPage shall not be responsible for proposals that are not received at the specific office location indicated above by the stated deadline. Failure by a delivery service company or person to meet the deadline will not excuse the respondent from the deadline requirement. It is solely the vendor’s responsibility to ensure that adequate time is allowed for timely and accurate delivery.

Prices offered shall be F.O.B. Destination, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137.

Prices must be firm. No proposals will be accepted on the basis of a price prevailing at the time of shipment.

The award(s) of the contract will be made to the highest scoring proposer whose proposal complies with all the requirements prescribed. Brand or trade names in RFP specifications are used for identification purposes only.

Respondents may download the RFP in addition to any future addenda from the College’s Procurement website at the following URL address: http://cod.edu/about/purchasing/requests/index.aspx

No proposal shall be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days after the RFP opening date without the consent of the College.

LEGAL NOTICE

RFP NOTICE

No. 2027-R0001

The College of DuPage is accepting sealed proposals for the Furnishing and Installation of a Gas Kiln.

The RFP documents and Zoom meeting instructions may be downloaded from the Procurement Website at www.cod.edu/about/purchasing/requests by clicking on the link for this RFP and following the instructions.

Proposals will be received between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time to the College of DuPage Procurement Services in the Institutional Resource Center (IRC) Building, Room 1001, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 up to and no later than Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time, at which time they will publicly opened.

A Pre-Proposal Conference is scheduled via Zoom for Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Central Time. The Pre-Proposal Conference is not mandatory, but highly recommended.

The College of DuPage is committed to the economic development of disadvantaged business enterprises;

qualified Minority, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Owned Businesses are highly encouraged to participate.

College of DuPage Board of Trustees Reserves the right to reject any and all responses. This invitation is issued in the name of the Board of Trustees of College of DuPage, Community College District 502, Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

Table of Contents

1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 DEFINITIONS

1.2 PROPOSALS TO CONFORM TO REQUIREMENTS OF LEGAL ADVERTISING

1.3 COMPLIANCE

1.4 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS - PUBLIC CONTRACTS

1.5 REGULATIONS

1.6 RFP MODIFICATIONS

1.7 PRICES FIRM

1.8 AWARD OF CONTRACT

1.9 CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSALS

1.10 COMPETENCY OF VENDOR

1.11 VENDOR WARRANTIES

1.12 PAYMENT TERMS

1.13 PAYMENT REMITTANCE

1.14 CASH BILLING DISCOUNTS

1.15 LOCAL BUSINESS PREFERENCE

1.16 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

1.17 TAX EXEMPTION

1.18 HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSE

1.19 CONTRACTORS LIABILITY INSURANCE

1.20 PREVAILING WAGE ACT

1.21 BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

2.0 INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

2.1 OUTSIDE DOCUMENT DISCLAIMER

2.2 BLACKOUT PERIOD

2.3 PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING

2.4 REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION/CLARIFICATION

2.5 RFP DEADLINE AND SUBMISSION

2.6 EXCEPTIONS

2.7 ERROR IN PROPOSAL

2.8 WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS

2.9 NOTICES

3.0 RFP SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW

3.2 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.3 SCOPE OF WORK

3.4 EVALUATION CRITERIA

4.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION AND EVALUATION

4.1 PROPOSAL CONTENT AND FORMAT

4.2 EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

4.3 SELECTION OF AWARD

5.0 BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

6.0 CERTIFICATIONS **Required**

7.0 SIGNATURE PAGE **Required**

8.0 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE AND NON-COLLUSION FORM **Required**

ATTACHMENT A – COST PROPOSAL

ATTACHMENT B – REFERENCES

ATTACHMENT C – SAMPLE AGREEMENT

ATTACHMENT D – CAMPUS MAP

ATTACHMENT E – NO BID FORM

RFP SUBMISSION CHECKLIST

Things to Remember When Submitting a Response to a Request for Proposal for the College of DuPage

1. Read the entire document. In your review, note critical items such as: blackout period, required goods and services, submittal dates, submission requirements, etc.

2. Note the contact information provided. The Procurement Services Office Buyer at purchasing@cod.edu is the single point of contact for this Request for Proposal and is the only person with whom you are allowed to communicate regarding this RFP. This person is an excellent source of information for any questions you may have.

3. Take advantage of the “question and answer” period. Submit your questions to Procurement Services by the date in the RFP and view the answers given in the formal addenda issued for the RFP. All addenda issued for an RFP will be emailed to each company that downloaded the RFP documents and will include all questions asked and answered concerning the Invitation to RFP. Please ensure when downloading the RFP documents, you use a valid email address.

4. Do not alter, add to, or delete and part of the RFP documents without prior approval.

Please refer to the section titled Exceptions for instruction on how to request a deviation to the original Invitation to RFP.

5. Ensure all Addenda are signed. Before submitting your response, check the College Procurement website at http://www.cod.edu/about/purchasing/requests/index.aspx to see whether any addenda were issued for this RFP request. If so, you must submit a signed copy of the addenda along with your response.

6. Review and read the RFP document again to make sure you have addressed all requirements.

*Proposals will not be accepted if Sections 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are not completed. (Please note there are two (2) signature lines in Section 8 that must be signed.)

*If your company is a Certified Women-Owned, Minority-owned, or Persons with Disability-owned business, please include a copy of any and all certifications.

7. Submit your response on time. Note the date and time listed on the front page of the RFP and be sure to submit all required items on time. Late responses will not be accepted. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to ensure that adequate time is allowed for timely and accurate submission and that the proposal is received as required.

8. Important dates to know:

• RFP Publication Date – Friday, September 11, 2026

• Pre-Proposal Meeting – Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time

• Questions Due – Wednesday, September 23, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. Central Time

• Proposals Due – Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time

• Target Board Approval Date – Thursday, November 19, 2026

1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 DEFINITIONS

A. VENDOR shall mean the individual or business entity submitting a proposal to supply any or all of the services or goods required by the RFP Documents.

B. RFP shall mean the Request for Proposal (RFP) Documents as completed by the Vendor which constitutes the Vendor's offer.

C. CONTRACT shall mean the agreement between the College and Contractor as set forth in the Bid

Documents and as awarded by the College of DuPage Board of Trustees.

D. RFP DOCUMENTS shall mean collectively the Instructions to Vendors, General Conditions, Special

Conditions, Specifications, Attachments, and Addenda, if any, Site Inspection Certificate, Contractor Certifications and Forms for Minority Participation. The above documents shall be considered as one integrated document setting forth the obligations of the parties.

E. CONTRACTOR shall mean the individual or business entity submitting a proposal and to whom the

College of DuPage Board of Trustees awards the Contract.

F. COLLEGE shall mean the College of DuPage, Community College District No. 502, a body politic and corporate of the State of Illinois.

G. DIRECTOR shall mean the person or persons authorized by the College to act in connection with this

Contract. Such authorization shall not include any power to change the scope of the Contract or to obligate the College to pay additional sums beyond the amount of the Contract awarded by the College of DuPage Board of Trustees.

H. PROCUREMENT MANAGER shall mean the Procurement Manager of the College of DuPage.

I. SPECIFICATIONS shall mean the description of the required services, Contract Goods, equipment, personnel, volume and use statistics and all requirements for the scope of work set forth in the RFP Documents.

1.2 PROPOSALS TO CONFORM TO REQUIREMENTS OF LEGAL ADVERTISING

The College will not entertain or consider any RFP responses: (i) received after the exact time specified in the legal advertisements; (ii) not accompanied by the required bid deposit/bond, if required; or (iii) in any other way failing to comply fully with the conditions stated in the legal advertisement.

1.3 COMPLIANCE

Submissions under this Request for Proposal shall be for items at least equal to or better than the quality and performance characteristics stated herein. The burden of proof that product and services meet specifications shall be documented by the vendor and be provided as part of the submitted proposal. Failure to provide complete documentation of the product compliance with specifications required may result in proposal rejection.

1.4 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS - PUBLIC CONTRACTS

This Contract is a competitively bid public contract of the College of DuPage subject to laws and ordinances governing public contracts. The Vendor shall at all times observe and comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations and codes of the Federal, State and other local government agencies which may in any manner affect the preparation of the proposal or the performance of the Contract. If the Vendor observes that any of the RFP Documents are at variance therewith, it shall promptly notify the Procurement Manager in writing and necessary changes shall be effected by appropriate modification.

1.5 REGULATIONS

The Contractor or Subcontractor, warrants that they are familiar with and they shall comply with all Federal, State, and Local Laws, statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations and the orders and decrees of any courts or administrative bodies or tribunals in any manner affecting the performance of the Contract, including, without limitation, Workmen’s Compensation Laws, minimum salary and wage statutes and regulations, laws with respect to permits and licenses and fees in connection therewith, laws regarding maximum working hours and regulations with respect to use of explosives. No plea of misunderstanding or ignorance thereof will be considered. Whenever required, the Contractor, or Subcontractor, shall furnish the college with satisfactory proof of compliance with said Federal, State and Local Laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, orders, and decrees.

1.6 PROPOSAL MODIFICATIONS

Unless indicated, it is understood that proposals are in strict accordance with specification requirements.

Proposals shall be deemed final, conclusive, and irrevocable. No proposal shall be subject to correction or amendment for any error or miscalculation. Prices shall include cost of materials as specified, any applicable discounts and shipping. Installation costs shall be included only when indicated on page one. Installation shall include, but is not limited to, all assembly required, setting in place, and mounting all materials at various campus locations.

1.7 PRICES FIRM

All prices quoted in the proposal shall be firm and will not be subject to increase during the term of the Contract awarded to the Contractor, except as otherwise provided in the RFP Documents.

1.8 AWARD OF CONTRACT

The award of the contract will be made within ninety (90) calendar days after the opening of proposals to the highest scoring responsible and qualified vendor whose proposal complies with all the requirements prescribed. The successful vendor will be notified by electronic mail that their proposal has been accepted and that they have been awarded the contract. Notification will also be posted on the College’s Procurement website at http://www.cod.edu/about/purchasing/ . Failure to execute performance as per accepted proposal may result in legal action by the College of DuPage to recover damages.

If a contract is not awarded within ninety (90) days after the opening of proposals, a vendor may file a written request with the Procurement Manager for the withdrawal of their proposal and the Procurement Manager will permit such withdrawal.

The bid security (if required) of all except the three (3) low vendors will be returned promptly after the proposals have been checked, tabulated, and the relation of the proposals established. Bid security of the three (3) lowest vendors, if required in legal notice, will be returned as soon as the contract and the bond of the successful vendor have been promptly executed and approved. If contracts cannot be awarded promptly, the College may permit the three (3) lowest vendors to substitute bid bonds for bank cashier’s checks, bank drafts or certified checks submitted with their proposals. Bid bonds executed by corporate surety companies shall be satisfactory to the Owner, but such substitution shall not be made until a period of fifteen (15) days has elapsed after the date of opening of proposals and bond forms furnished by the College shall be used.

1.9 CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSALS

The College reserves the right to reject or accept any or all proposal responses, to extend the bidding period, to waive technicalities in the documents and/or to direct that the solicitation be abandoned or rebid prior to award of the Contract.

1.10 COMPETENCY OF VENDOR

No proposal will be accepted from, or Contract awarded to a Vendor that is in arrears or is in default to the College upon any debt or Contract, or that is a defaulter, as surety or otherwise upon any obligation to said College, or has failed to perform faithfully any previous contract with the College.

1.11 VENDOR WARRANTIES

The submission of a proposal shall constitute a warranty that: (i) Vendor has carefully and thoroughly reviewed the RFP Documents and has found them complete and free from ambiguities and sufficient to describe the Contract work; (ii) Vendor and all workers and/or employees it intends to use in the performance of this Contract are skilled and experienced in the type of work or services called for by the RFP Documents; and (iii) neither the Vendor nor any of its employees, agents, suppliers or subcontractors have relied on any verbal representations from the College, or any of the College's employees, agents, or consultants, in preparing the RFP.

1.12 PAYMENT TERMS

All invoices must be provided to the College for services rendered directly to the College. Undisputed invoices will be paid to the contractor within sixty (60) days of receipt of properly submitted invoices, in accordance with the Local Government Prompt Payment Act.

1.13 PAYMENT REMITTANCE

All College vendors are required to receive payment from the College via an Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer. Instructions to register for ACH payments will be sent, upon request, to successful vendors.

Failure to comply with the ACH requirements may result in termination of the contract or purchase order.

College ACH transfers typically occur the third week of each month. Invoices must be received at least 3 weeks prior to each ACH payment release. You are strongly encouraged to set up your account upon notice of award to avoid a delay payment.

1.14 CASH BILLING DISCOUNTS

Cash billing or percentage discounts for payment will not be considered in evaluating proposals.

1.15 LOCAL BUSINESS PREFERENCE

When two (2) or more responsible vendors submit the same low bid, the contract award will be determined by drawing lots in a public meeting unless one vendor is a local vendor within the District boundaries and one is a non-local vendor, in which event the local vendor will be awarded the contract.

1.16 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

In the hiring of employees for the performance of work under the Contract and any subcontract thereunder, no Contractor or Subcontractor shall, by reason of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, unfavorable military discharge or sexual orientation discriminate against any citizen of the United States, in the employment of Labor or workers, who are qualified and available to perform work to which the employment is related. Neither shall any Contractor or Subcontractor, or any person on behalf of either, discriminate against or intimidate any employee hired for the performance of work under this Contract on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, unfavorable military discharge or sexual orientation.

1.17 TAX EXEMPTION

College of DuPage District #502 is exempt from Federal, State and Municipal taxes. Exemption certificates will be furnished upon request.

1.18 HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSE

Contractor shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the College of DuPage, its officers, trustees, agents, servants, and employees, from and against any and all claims, lawsuits, demands, liabilities, and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in connection with the performance of this agreement, and from any and all claims, liabilities, and losses occurring or resulting to any person, firm, or corporation for damage, injury, or death arising out of or connected with Contractor’s performance of this agreement, unless such claims, liabilities, or losses arise out of the sole negligence or willful misconduct of the College of DuPage.

“Contractor’s performance” includes Contractor’s action or inaction and the action or inaction of Contractor’s officers, employees, agents and Subcontractors.

1.19 CONTRACTORS LIABILITY INSURANCE

The Contractor shall not commence work under this contract until all insurance required herein is obtained and approved by the College. Nor shall the Contractor allow any subcontractor to commence work until all similar insurance required of the subcontractor has been so obtained.

The Contractor shall furnish the College of DuPage with a Certificate of Insurance, with College of DuPage, its trustees, officers, agents, employees, and any other parties designated by COD named as an additional insured for Commercial General and Automobile Liability, showing the minimum coverage indicated below.

Insurance companies must have a Best Rating of at least A VI and otherwise be acceptable to the College.

Workers’ compensation insurance shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the College of DuPage.

The College will also be shown as the certificate holder. Further, the Certificate of Insurance shall state that coverage provided is primary to any other coverage available to College of DuPage. An endorsement page showing coverage must accompany the certificate of insurance. The foregoing certificate shall contain a provision that coverage afforded under the policies will not be cancelled or non-renewed until at least sixty

(60) days prior written notice has been given to College of DuPage.

TYPE OF INSURANCE MINIMUM INSURANCE COVERAGE

Combined Single Limit per Occurrence/Aggregate

Commercial General Liability including:

1. Premises – Operations $1,000,000 / $2,000,000

2. Explosion, Underground and Collapse Hazard

3. Products/Completed Operations

4. Contractual Insurance

5. Broad Form Property Damage

6. Independent Contractors

7. Bodily Injury

Automobile Liability Owned, Non-owned, or Rented $1,000,000 / $2,000,000

Workers' Compensation and Employers’ Liability As Required by Applicable Laws

Professional Liability If Performance Specifications are required by the Contract

1.20 PREVAILING WAGE ACT

When applicable, and as a condition of receiving payment, Contractor must pay its employees prevailing wages in the locality in which the work is to be performed as establish for Public Works (construction and maintenance of a public work) prevailing wage and other requirements under Contract for Public Workers 820 ILCS 130/4. When required by the College Contractor shall provide a copy of the certified payroll on request. Contractor is responsible for contacting the Illinois Department of Labor to ensure understanding of prevailing wage requirements.

The prevailing rates of wages are determined by the Illinois Department of Labor and are available on the Department’s official website: https://www2.illinois.gov/idol/Laws-Rules/CONMED/Pages/prevailing-wage-rates.aspx The College of DuPage has adopted the resolution regarding the prevailing wage rates for DuPage County in accordance with Illinois Prevailing Wage Act and are available the College’s website: http://www.cod.edu/about/purchasing/illinois_prevailing_wage_act.aspx .

1.21 BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

The College of DuPage encourages the participation of qualified minorities, females, and persons with disabilities owned businesses in public contracts. It is the practice of the College to ensure full and equitable economic opportunities to persons and businesses that compete for business with the College of DuPage, including minorities, females, and persons with disabilities owned business enterprises The College is committed to the economic development of disadvantaged business enterprises and the award of contracts to businesses owned by minorities, females, and persons with disabilities for services to the extent provided by the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Females and Persons with Disabilities Act (“Act”), 30 ILCS 575.

END OF SECTION

2.0 INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

2.1 OUTSIDE DOCUMENT DISCLAIMER

The College of DuPage cannot warrant, represent, or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of documents which have not been obtained directly from the College. If you have obtained these documents from a third-party source, the College is not responsible for any loss or damage including, but not limited to, time, money, or goodwill arising from errors, inaccuracies or omissions in any third-party bid documents.

To obtain official documents, please visit: https://www.cod.edu/about/purchasing/requests/index.aspx .

Click on the link for this solicitation and follow the prompts to enter your information onto our vendor list and download the original documents. This will ensure your contact information is registered on our vendor list, and we can send you any addenda that may be issued. This website is the only official website for prospective vendors to obtain digital copies of RFP documents. It is the responsibility of each prospective vendor to verify the completeness of their printed RFP documents before submitting a proposal and accompanying executed addenda acknowledgement, and other required forms.

2.2 BLACKOUT PERIOD

Under no circumstances are respondents to contact or discuss this RFP, or any of the information contained herein or about this solicitation in general, with any College of DuPage trustee, employee, vendor, contractor, or subcontractor, other than using the methods outlined in this RFP. Respondents are strictly forbidden from visiting the College’s locations or approaching any College trustee, employee, vendor, contractor, or subcontractor for any information related to this Request for Proposal or this solicitation without the direct knowledge and authorization in writing in advance from the Procurement Manager or Buyer. Violation of these provisions may subject the respondent to immediate disqualification.

2.3 PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING

A. The College will hold a Non-Mandatory Zoom Pre-Proposal Meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time. All parties interested in responding to the RFP are urged to attend the Zoom meeting. The College will clarify the objectives of the RFP and answer questions during the Pre-Proposal Meeting.

B. Zoom Invite Meeting Information for the Pre-Proposal meeting.

Topic: Pre-Proposal Meeting for 2027-R0001 - Gas Kiln, Furnish and Install Time: – Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting: https://cod.zoom.us/j/4032153786

Meeting ID: 403 215 3786

One tap mobile +13126266799,,4032153786# US (Chicago) Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Meeting ID: 403 215 3786

Find your local number: https://cod.zoom.us/u/kb8Pu8UUch

2.4 REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION/CLARIFICATION

If any firm submitting a proposal for this solicitation is in doubt as to the true meaning of the specifications or other documents or any part thereof, vendor shall request clarification from the Procurement Services.

Questions must be submitted in writing and be directed via email to the Procurement Services at purchasing@cod.edu no later than Wednesday, September 23, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. Central Time.

Questions for which answers are provided will be communicated to all registered recipients of RFP documents via addendum. All issued addenda must be signed and returned to the College as per the instructions in the addenda or proposal will not be accepted.

2.5 PROPOSAL DEADLINE AND SUBMISSION

To be assured of consideration, Proposals must be received Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time by the College of DuPage Procurement Services in the Institutional Resource Center (IRC) Building, Room 1001, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, no later than Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time. See Attachment D for the location of the Institutional Resource Center (IRC) Building.

Late proposals will not be considered. Failure by a delivery service company or person to meet the deadline will not excuse the vendor from the deadline requirement. It is solely the Vendor’s responsibility to ensure that adequate time is allowed for timely, accurate delivery and that the Proposal is received as required.

All Vendors shall submit one (1) sealed original copy, and one (1) flash drive containing all completed documents of the Proposal.

Proposals must be in a sealed envelope and delivered to:

College of DuPage Procurement Services Institutional Resource Center (IRC) Building, Room 1001 425 Fawell Blvd.

Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137 Attention: RFP No. 2027-R0001

Proposals must be received by the date and hour of the RFP Opening as shown in the legal advertisement. The sealed envelope submitted by the Vendor shall carry the following information on the face of the envelope: Vendor's name, address, RFP Notice Number, advertised date of RFP Opening and the hour designated for Proposal Opening as shown in the legal advertisement. Unless otherwise stated, all blank spaces on the proposal forms shall be fully completed. Vendor bears all responsibility for error or omissions in the submission of the proposal.

2.6 EXCEPTIONS

If any Respondent intends to take any deviations or exceptions from the specifications or other RFP documents, Respondent shall submit to the Procurement Manager a written request for a deviation or exception at least ten (10) business days prior to the date and time of advertised RFP opening date. If the Procurement Manager considers such deviation or exception acceptable, the Procurement Manager shall issue an Addendum setting forth such deviation or exception from the specifications or other which shall be applicable to all Respondents submitting a response.

If no Addendum is issued by the Procurement Manager/Buyer, then such deviation or exception shall be deemed rejected.

The College may reject any response containing deviations or exceptions not previously accepted through a written Addendum. A copy of such Addendum will be e-mailed or delivered to each Respondent receiving a set of such RFP documents. Respondent shall acknowledge receipt of each Addendum issued via a signed addendum. Failure to acknowledge receipt of addenda may result in disqualification of the bid. All written requests for deviations or exceptions shall be sent to purchasing@cod.edu.

2.7 ERROR IN PROPOSAL

Where a vendor claims to have made a mistake, such mistake must be called to the attention of the Procurement Manager within twenty-four (24) hours after the opening of proposals. Within forty-eight (48) hours of the RFP opening, vendor shall submit to the College’s designated Procurement Manager original documentary evidence and a detailed explanation of how the mistake was made. Failure to conform to this requirement precludes the vendor from withdrawing its proposal based upon a mistake. If such notice, proof and explanations have been tendered, and the Procurement Manager is convinced that a bona fide mistake has been made, the Procurement Manager may recommend to the Board of Trustees that the vendor be allowed to withdraw its proposal and recommend that the RFP be awarded to the next highest scoring and responsible, responsive vendor. If the Board determines by majority vote, that the vendor has made a bona fide error, no award will be made upon such proposal and the bid security will be returned.

2.8 WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS

Vendors may withdraw their proposals at any time prior to the time specified in the legal advertisement as the date and hour set for the RFP Opening. However, no vendor shall withdraw, cancel or modify its proposal response for a period of ninety (90) calendar days after said advertised RFP Opening. Requests for withdrawal must be made in writing on the Vendor’s letterhead to the College’s Procurement Services.

Vendors must make their own arrangements for the return of their proposal.

2.9 NOTICES

All communications and notices between the College and Vendors regarding the RFP Documents shall be in writing via email. Notices to the Vendors shall be addressed to the email address provided by the Vendors; notices to the Procurement Manager shall be addressed to Procurement Services Department via-email at purchasing@cod.edu.

3.0 RFP SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2027-R0001 – FURNISH AND INSTALL ONE (1) GAS KILN

3.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW

The College of DuPage is seeking proposals for the supply, delivery, and installation of one (1) industrial-grade gas kiln. The kiln will be used for ceramics instruction and will provide students with experience firing a manually operated gas kiln. Unlike the computer-controlled kilns currently in our program, this kiln will allow students to develop a deeper understanding of firing techniques, kiln atmosphere, reduction firing, and alternative firing processes. Its smaller size also makes it well suited for test firings and instructional demonstrations. This kiln will most support Glaze Chemistry and Alternative Firing courses, opening up new possibilities for both instruction and experimentation.

3.2 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The equipment must meet or exceed the following engineering and structural requirements:

A. Capacity & Thermal Performance

• Required Kiln Capacity: 8-10 cubic feet (8-10 ft³).

• Temperature Rating: Minimum operating temperature of 2400°F

• Draft Configuration: Updraft design is our preference to ensure optimal heat distribution and atmospheric reduction control.

• Door Frame Opening: The room where the kiln is to be installed is very limited. The measurements from metal to metal are 50" inches wide for the door opening. Vendor must ensure the kiln will be able to fit this opening.

B. Required Burners, Controls, And Safety Features

The kiln should include, at a minimum:

• High-temperature oxygen probe

• Pyrometer

• High-limit safety control (#1)

• Air manifold system

• ¾" Maxitrol gas regulator

• High-limit flame safety system (#3)

• Draft induction fan (approximately 500 CFM)

C. Refractory & Shell Construction

• Lining Material: Minimum 4.5-inch thick wall system using K-23 or K-26 insulating firebrick

(IFB), or premium ceramic fiber module equivalent.

• Hearth & Floor: Heavy-duty, high-density hot-face brick capable of supporting maximum ware loads without settling.

• Exposed Shell: Heavy-gauge structural steel angle frame encased in rust-resistant, powder-coated, or stainless steel sheet metal panels.

• Door Assembly: Swing-out or Guillotine style door featuring a compression-sealed gasket and a heavy-duty mechanical locking latch.

D. Fuel & Combustion System

• Gas Type: Natural Gas.

• Burner Configuration: Multiple forced-air or high-velocity venturi burners engineered for uniform zone control.

• Total BTU Output: Sized precisely to chamber volume to achieve standard ramp rates without stalling at high temperatures.

• Atmospheric Control: Manual or automated multi-position flue damper constructed of high-temperature refractory material.

E. Safety & Compliance

• Safety Shut-off: Integrated flame-supervision system (e.g., Baso valve, UV scanner, or electronic flame programmer) to cut gas flow immediately upon flame failure.

• Over-Temperature Protection: Digital high-limit controller with mechanical safety relay to prevent thermal runaway.

• Certifications: Entire gas train and control assembly must comply with NFPA 86, and all local mechanical codes.

F. Electrical

• The current kiln operates on 120-volt AC power. The new kiln should also be designed to operate on 120-volt AC power, as there is not sufficient capacity or space available to add to the existing electrical circuit.

3.3 SCOPE OF WORK

The selected vendor will be responsible for the following deliverables:

• Manufacturing: Fabricate the gas kiln to the approved specifications.

• Delivery: Transport the equipment fully insured to the College of DuPage Shipping and

Receiving, 425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, including offloading via liftgate or forklift.

• Rigging & Placement: Move the kiln from the loading area to its final designated footprint inside the facility.

• Utility Tie-in: Make final connection to the facility gas line and electrical supply (if applicable).

• Start-up, Testing & Commissioning: Conduct a successful dry-fire test on-site to verify burner functionality, safety shut-offs, and draft calibration.

• Training: Vendor-provided operational and safety training for faculty and staff is requested as part of the installation. Selected vendor shall provide a minimum of four (4) hours of operational and safety training for staff.

• Permits, Inspections, and Certifications: Any permits, inspections, testing, or certifications required for a complete and code-compliant installation should be identified in the proposal.

• Warranty: Please include the manufacturer's standard warranty and identify any extended warranty options.

3.4 REMOVAL OF EXISTING KILN

The College would like the vendor to remove and properly dispose of the existing Alpine Gas Kiln

(#50405), Please indicate if your company can remove and dispose this kiln, and indicate the price for these services on the pricing proposal.

3.4 EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria:

CRITERIA WEIGHT

Ability of the proposed kiln and accessories to meet or exceed required technical and instructional specifications. Safety, code compliance, ventilation, utility compatibility, and installation approach. Removal and disposal of the existing Alpine Gas Kiln (#50405).

35%

Warranty, service support, response time, replacement parts availability, and long-term maintainability

15%

Delivery schedule, installation timeline, startup testing, and faculty/staff training

5%

Vendor qualifications, installation experience, and references for comparable institutional projects

10%

Total cost, including equipment, freight, installation, startup, training, warranty, and required expenses

30%

Proposer’s demonstrated commitment to diversity/State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program (BEP)

5%

Total 100%

4.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION AND EVALUATION

4.1. PROPOSAL CONTENT AND FORMAT

The sections in the proposal should be tabbed or clearly labeled in the order shown below:

Tab 1: Transmittal Letter and Required Forms

a) Transmittal Letter - signed by an individual authorized to legally bind the Respondent. The cover letter should contain the name of the firm, address, and the contact information for individual(s) authorized to answer technical, price, and contract questions. Contact information should include telephone number, fax number, mailing address, and email address. The cover letter must be signed by a person or persons authorized to bind the proposer(s). The cover letter must indicate whether any exceptions to specifications have been taken and reference the location in the proposal where these exceptions are detailed.

b) Section 5.0 – BEP Utilization Plan.

The College of DuPage encourages the participation of qualified minorities, females, and persons with disabilities owned businesses in public contracts and commits to the economic development of disadvantaged business enterprises and the award of contracts to businesses owned by minorities, females, and persons with disabilities for services to the extent provided by the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Females and Persons with Disabilities Act (“Act”), 30 ILCS 575. This solicitation contains an aspirational goal of 30% to include businesses owned and controlled by minorities, females and persons with disabilities in the procurement and contracting/subcontracting processes. Commitment to diversity considerations may include:

i. Business Enterprise Program (BEP) certification or utilization that meets or exceeds the college’s 30% goal.

ii. Assistance to BEP firms in obtaining lines of credit, insurance, equipment, supplies, or related services.

iii. Percentage of prior year revenues for projects that incorporate the involvement of BEP firms.

iv. Existence of a written supplier diversity plan or training/mentoring program for BEP firms.

v. Percentage of members serving the firm’s governing board, senior executive, and managers who are women, minorities, or persons with a disability.

c) Section 6.0 - Certifications Page

d) Section 7.0 - Signature Page

e) Section 8.0 - Conflict of Interest Disclosure and Non-Collusion Form

f) Any issued addenda, signed (if applicable)

Tab 2: Company Profile and Overview

a) Vendor Background/Qualifications

1. Legal Name of Firm and Full Address

2. Web site address

3. Firm Telephone Number

4. Primary Contact Person, Email, Phone

5. Company History, Size, years in business, and Relevant Experience manufacturing gas kilns

6. Qualifications of vendor’s installation personnel

Tab 3: Technical Design Proposal

a) Detailed technical layout sheets, dimensional drawings, BTU ratings, and parts list, Manufacturer, model number, specifications, and product literature

Tab 4: Implementation

a) Provide your Implementation Schedule, including Delivery timeframe, Installation and

Training Schedule

b) Indicate if your company would be willing and able to properly dispose of the existing Alpine

Gas Kiln (#50405). If so, indicate the price for these services on the pricing proposal.

Tab 5: Warranty and Support

a) Provide a clear description of your warranty terms (hardware and software); support SLA; and escalation procedures

Tab 6: References

a) In Attachment B, list at least three references for comparable kiln installations, preferably at colleges, universities, or educational institutions who purchased similar equipment within the last three (3) years.

Tab 7: Cost Proposal

a) Provide itemized pricing in Attachment A, including Equipment, Accessories, Freight, Installation, Startup, Training, Permits, Warranties, and any optional items.

4.2. EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

The College will appoint an Evaluation Committee whose responsibility will be to review all responses to this RFP. The College will consider the information provided in the response and the quality of that information when evaluating the Proposal. During the evaluation process, proposers may be requested to provide additional information and/or clarify contents of their proposal.

All proposals will be reviewed to determine if they contain all the required submittals specified in this RFP. Those not submitting all required information in the prescribed format may be rejected.

The Committee will review all responsive and responsible proposals based upon the criteria detailed herein. The selection process may include a request for additional data or oral presentations as deemed necessary by the College. The following criteria will be used in the evaluation of all proposals, not necessarily in level of importance:

• Ability of the proposed kiln and accessories to meet or exceed required technical and instructional specifications. Safety, code compliance, ventilation, utility compatibility, and installation approach

• Warranty, service support, response time, replacement parts availability, and long-term maintainability

• Delivery schedule, installation timeline, startup testing, and faculty/staff training

• Vendor qualifications, installation experience, and references for comparable institutional projects

• Total cost, including equipment, freight, installation, startup, training, warranty, and required expenses

• Proposer’s demonstrated commitment to diversity/State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program (BEP)

After the evaluation, the top finalists may be requested to make a phone, webinar or in-person presentation, or to further negotiate the terms and conditions of the contract. If notified, the company must be prepared to present with three (3) business days from the date of email notification. Specific instructions regarding the presentation will be included in the notification.

4.3. SELECTION OF AWARD

A. Basis of Award

The award of the contract will be based on best‐value to the College according to the evaluation criteria set forth in this document.

B. Selection Process

The award of the contract will be after the Evaluation Committee submits their Recommendation of Award of the selected Respondent(s) for approval by the College of DuPage Board of Trustees. The College of DuPage reserves the rights to award one (1) or more contracts to select Respondent(s) and/or to reject any and all responses when the best interest of the College will be served thereby. The successful Respondent(s) will be notified by electronic mail that their Proposal has been accepted and that they have been awarded the contract after the approval by the College of DuPage Board of Trustees. Notification will also be posted on the College’s Procurement Service website at http://www.cod.edu/about/Procurement Service/. Failure to execute performance as per accepted Proposal may result in legal action by the College of DuPage to recover damages.

5.0 BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

STATE OF ILLINOIS BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

MINORITIES, FEMALES, PERSONS WITH DISABILITY PARTICIPATION AND UTILIZATION PLAN

The Business Enterprise for Minorities, Females and Persons with Disabilities Act (BEP) establishes a goal for community colleges contracting with businesses that have been certified as owned and controlled by persons who are minorities (MBE), female (FBE/ also referred to as WBE), or persons with disabilities (PDBE) (collectively, BEP certified vendor(s)). 30 ILCS 575

Contract Goal to be achieved by Vendor: This solicitation includes an aspirational BEP participation goal of 30% based on the availability of BEP certified vendors to perform or provide the anticipated services and/or supplies required by this solicitation.

The BEP participation goal is applicable to all bids or offers. In addition to the award criteria established for this solicitation, the College will award this contract to a Vendor that meets the goal or demonstrates good faith efforts to meet the goal. This goal is applicable to change orders and allowances within the scope of work provided by the BEP certified vendors. If Vendor is an MBE and FBE certified vendor, the entire goal is met and no subcontracting with a BEP certified vendors is required; however, Vendor must submit a Utilization Plan indicating that the goal will be met by self-performance.

Following are guidelines for Vendor’s completion of the Utilization Plan. The Utilization Plan must demonstrate that Vendor has either: (1) met the entire contract goal; or (2) made good faith efforts towards meeting the goal.

At the time of bid or offer, Vendor, or Vendor’s proposed Subcontractor, must be certified with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services as a BEP certified vendor.

Failure to complete a Utilization Plan or provide Good Faith Effort documentation shall render the bid or offer non-responsive; and subject to rejection and/or disqualification in the College’s sole discretion.

1. If applicable where there is more than one prime vendor, the Utilization Plan should include an executed Joint Venture Agreement specifying the terms and conditions of the relationship between the parties and their relationship and responsibilities to the contract. The Joint Venture Agreement must clearly evidence that the BEP certified vendor will be responsible for a clearly defined portion of the work and that its responsibilities, risks, profits and contributions of capital, and personnel are proportionate to its ownership percentage. It must include specific details related to the parties’ contributions of capital, personnel, and equipment and share of the costs of insurance and other items;

the scopes to be performed by the BEP certified vendor under its supervision; and the commitment of management, supervisory personnel, and operative personnel employed by the BEP certified vendor to be dedicated to the performance of the contract. Established Joint Venture Agreements will only be credited toward BEP goal achievements for specific work performed by the BEP certified vendor. Each party to the Joint Venture Agreement must execute the bid or offer prior to submission of the bid or offer to the College.

2. An agreement between a vendor and a BEP certified vendor in which a BEP certified vendor promises not to provide subcontracting or pricing quotations to other vendors is prohibited. The College may request additional information to demonstrate compliance. Vendor agrees to cooperate promptly with the College in submitting to interviews, allowing entry to places of business, providing further documentation, and to soliciting the cooperation of a proposed BEP certified vendor. Failure to cooperate by Vendor and BEP certified vendor may render the vendor or offeror non-responsive or not responsible. The contract will not be awarded to Vendor unless Vendor’s Utilization Plan is approved by the College.

3. BEP Certified Vendor Locator References: Vendor may consult CMS’ BEP Vendor Directory at https://supplierdiversitymanagementportal.illinois.gov/VendorDirectory.aspx, as well as the directories of other certifying agencies, but firms must be certified with CMS as BEP certified vendors at the time of bid or offer.

4. Vendor Assurance: Vendor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sexual orientation or sex in the performance of this contract. Failure by Vendor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy, as the College deems appropriate. This assurance must be included in each subcontract that Vendor signs with a subcontractor or supplier.

5. Calculating BEP Certified Vendor Participation: The Utilization Plan documents work anticipated to be performed, or goods/equipment provided by all BEP certified vendors and paid for upon satisfactory completion/delivery. Only the value of payments made for the work actually performed by BEP certified vendors, by subcontractors or suppliers to such vendors, is counted toward the contract goal.

Applicable guidelines for counting payments attributable to contract goals are summarized below:

5.1 The value of the work actually performed or goods/equipment provided by the BEP certified vendor shall be counted towards the goal. The entire amount of that portion of the contract that is performed by the BEP certified vendor, including supplies purchased or equipment leased by the BEP certified vendor shall be counted, except supplies purchased and equipment rented from the Prime Vendor submitting this bid or offer.

5.2 A vendor shall count the portion of the total dollar value of the BEP contract equal to the distinct, clearly defined portion of the work of the contract that the BEP certified vendor performs toward the goal. A vendor shall also count the dollar value of work subcontracted to other BEP certified vendor. Work performed by the non- BEP certified party shall not be counted toward the goal. Work that a BEP certified vendor subcontracts to a non-BEP certified vendor will not count towards the goal.

5.3 A Vendor shall count toward the goal 100% of its expenditures for materials and supplies required under the contract and obtained from a BEP…