16._Part_13.5_JOFOC_Commercial_REDACTED.pdf

Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition Western Area Power Administration

FAR 13.5, Simplified Acquisitions - Test Program for Certain Commercial Items

1. Identification of the agency and the contracting activity.

Western Area Power Administration, Casper Service Center

2. The nature and/or description of the action being approved.

The action being approved is a brand name purchase of an Elliot 90’ bucket truck, sole source to Aspen.

The contract is firm-fixed price.

3. A description of the supplies or services required to meet the agency’s needs.

An Elliot H90F, 90’ bucket truck is required for safe productive maintenance at the Casper Service Center. The Elliot has a specific boom design, which no other manufacturer can offer. This design also has a low center of gravity, which is critical to operate on steep terrain.

4. The statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition.

41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1), ref FAR 6.302-1(a), Only one responsible source and no other supplies will satisfy agency requirements

5. A statement demonstrating the unique qualifications of the proposed contractor or the nature of the action requiring the use of the authority.

The working environment requires a 90’ boom that rotates and telescopes but does not articulate. Close proximity to structures and energized lines require the specific movement which only an Elliot designed boom can offer. All other lifts require boom movement which is not applicable to certain situations. Any other boom design would be unsafe and cause possible injury to personnel, equipment, and the system.

The Elliot design has a telescopic boom with no articulating movement. The only movement is rotational and telescoping, which is required for safe operation in many situations. In many situations, due to terrain, structures, vegetation, and height requirements this design is the only solution to fit and extend safely. In addition, only the Elliot has long stroke vertical leg outriggers, which are necessary to level the unit in extreme uneven and steep terrain common in the Casper service area.

6. A description of efforts to ensure that offers were solicited from as many potential sources as is practicable.

An RFQ was issued on GSA on 8/25/2015 with a close date of 9/15/2015. At the close of the RFQ only one quote was received which did not meet the specifications. It was then discovered that the required brand and model of bucket apparatus, Elliot model H90F, only has one authorized dealer, Aspen Equipment, in the western United States.