Exception_Sheet.pdf

This Exception Sheet is part of Invitation for Bid (IFB-2026-005) issued by the City of Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety in Hamilton County, Indiana, for the procurement of eight 2026 model year police vehicles. The solicitation requires bidders to list and explain any exceptions or deviations from the specified vehicle requirements and contract terms. The sheet serves as a mechanism for bidders to formally document any proposed substitutions or variances from the brand-name-only specifications, which include one each of a Nissan Pathfinder Premium, Ram Tradesman 1500 Crew Cab 4x4, Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4, Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab Custom 4WD, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Tahoe 9C1, plus two Chevrolet Traverse LT AWD units in different colors. Sealed bids must be submitted through the City's e-Procurement Portal no later than 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, with written questions due by Monday, March 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

The Exception Sheet explicitly cautions that the submission of exceptions may result in a bid being deemed non-responsive if any exception is determined to constitute a material variance from the specifications and terms. Notably, the solicitation specifies "Brand Name Only" vehicles with no approved substitutes permitted, which significantly restricts the ability of bidders to take exceptions. All bids will remain firm for ninety days from the bid opening date, and award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder whose bid is reasonable and does not exceed available project funds. No bid bonds or performance bonds are required, and the City reserves the right to reject all bids or terminate the contract for cause or convenience upon ten calendar days' written notice.