FWC 25.26-85 Final Draft.pdf

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

1875 ORANGE AVE E

TALLAHASSEE, FL 32311-6160

(850) 488-6551

Two Airboat Build Engines & Trailers

FWC 25/26-85

INVITATION TO BID

ITB BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Purpose: The intent of this bid is to obtain competitive pricing for building two heavy-duty airboats and provide engines and trailers. Airboats and other equipment to be used by RB's with the Invasive Plant Management Section as work boats. Airboats are to be built, per the specifications contained herein. Only responsive and responsible

Contractors will be considered for award of this Invitation to Bid (ITB).

Responsive: To be responsive, a bid must constitute a definite, firm, unqualified and unconditional offer to meet all of the material terms of this ITB. Material terms are those that could affect the price, quantity, quality, or delivery. Also included as material terms are those which are clearly identified in this ITB and which, for reasons of policy, must be complied with at risk of bid rejection for non-responsiveness.

Non-Responsive: Any submission that does not comply with this ITB in any way, does not contain all the properly signed forms, supplements or deviates from the Bid requirements or has an incomplete Price Sheet may be considered nonresponsive at the discretion of the Procurement Manager.

Responsible Vendors: The Commission shall only consider responsible vendors. Responsible vendors are those that have, in the sole judgment of the Commission, the financial ability, experience, resources, skills, capability, reliability and business integrity necessary to perform the requirements of the contract. The Commission may also consider references and quality to determine the responsibility of the bid. The Commission reserves the right to use any information, whether supplied through the Bidder’s submission or otherwise obtained, in determining responsibility.

Sealed Bid: In response to an Invitation to Bid (ITB), a sealed bid is the final submission of a bid from a vendor prior to the bid deadline, after which no further submissions will be considered.

Rejection of Bids: The Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any minor irregularity in the submissions received in response to this ITB. The Commission reserves the right to consider all information, whether submitted or otherwise, to determine responsiveness and responsibility and to reject bids accordingly.

Name of Business: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact Person Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Business Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________ State: _____________________________ Zip code: ______________________________________

Phone: ___________________________ Fax: _______________________________ Email: ______________________________________

Federal Employer Identification Number: ____________________

The undersigned attest to the following:

“We understand all of the terms, conditions and the specifications contained herein and agree to abide by all of the terms, conditions and the specifications in their entirety.

Authorized Signature (Manual): ________________________________________________________________________________________

Authorized Signature Name (Typed) and Title: __________________________________________________________________________

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 3 of 77

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FWC 25/26-85

SCHEDULE DUE DATE METHOD

Bid Advertised April 1, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal

(VIP)

Deadline for Questions

Must be received

PRIOR to:

April 8, 2026

@ 5:00 PM ET

See Solicitation Questions Clause

Anticipated date for Responses to Written Questions April 13, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal

SEALED BIDS DUE

(REMEMBER: The bid number should be clearly marked on envelope)

Must be received

PRIOR to:

April 20, 2026

@ 2:30 PM ET

Mailing Address:

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation

Commission

Attn: Purchasing

1875 Orange Ave E

Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160

Submissions are due BEFORE the date and time of the public opening.

Public Bid Opening April 20, 2026

@ 2:30 PM ET

Public Opening Options for Attendance:

-In Person-

1875 Orange Ave E

Tallahassee, FL 32311-6160

-Teleconference-

Conference call phone number:

1.888.585.9008

Conference room number: 218-721-199

Anticipated Date of Intended

Award April 23, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 4 of 77

GENERAL CONDITIONS

FWC 25/26-85

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC or Commission) mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The Commission administers six (6) major programs including habitat and species conservation, freshwater fisheries management, law enforcement, marine fisheries management, hunting and game management and fish and wildlife research.

A Bidder submitting a bid shall be registered in the MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) system and where required, the Sunbiz system prior to the bid opening. Business entities which must be on file with Sunbiz include the following foreign and domestic entities: Corporations for and not for profit, Limited Liability

Companies (LLC), Limited Partnerships (LP) including Limited Liability Limited Partnerships (LLLP), and organizations doing business under a fictitious name (DBA). A Bidder may not be considered for an award, if not registered in the MFMP and Sunbiz system. The Bidder’s registration address and federal employer identification (FEID) number should match the Bidder’s address and FEID number listed on the

Bidder Acknowledgment form (Page 2).

Certified Minority-owned, Woman-owned and Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, as certified by the State of Florida Office of Supplier Development, are encouraged by the Commission to participate in the bidding process.

Bids from Bidders shall include all necessary equipment to complete the job. The bidder is required to supply all specified documentation when submitting a bid for this project.

Please note:

• The terms “Contract,” “Agreement” and “Purchase Order” are used interchangeably in the document.

• The terms “Commodities” and “Goods” are used interchangeably in the document.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PUR 1000 and PUR1001 are hereby incorporated by reference. PUR1000 and PUR1001 can be found at the

Department of Management Services website at the following link:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purc hasing_pur_forms

The following terms and conditions take precedence over the PUR1001 and PUR1000 forms where applicable. The Commission objects to and shall not consider any additional terms or conditions submitted by a Bidder or Contractor, including any appearing in documents attached as part of a Bidder’s response.

In signing and submitting its bid, a Bidder agrees that any additional terms or conditions, whether submitted intentionally or inadvertently, shall have no force or effect. Failure to comply with terms and conditions, including those specifying information that must be submitted with a bid, shall be grounds for rejecting a bid.

The terms and conditions of Attachment A, Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, are hereby incorporated into this solicitation. Any contract resulting from this solicitation will include the terms and conditions of this solicitation and the terms and conditions contained in Attachment A.

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 5 of 77

PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Xavier Wilson

Xavier.wilson@myfwc.com

ESTIMATED BUDGET

The Commission has an estimated budget for this project of $180,000.

TERM

The contract will be effective one year upon issuance of Purchase Order.

If circumstances constituting Force Majeure have occurred, or if anything occurs beyond the Contractor’s control, the Contractor shall submit an extension request in writing. The Project Manager and Contract

Manager will review the extension request and if they determine it is justified, will forward to the Bid

Request Inbox (bidrequest@myfwc.com) for procurement review and approval/disapproval.

SUBCONTRACTS

Subcontracting IS permitted pursuant to the Terms and Conditions of the Purchase Order. The

Subcontractor Minority Status Report (Attachment C) shall be submitted with each invoice for payment.

The List of Subcontractors (Attachment D) shall be included with bid submission.

DIVERSITY

The Commission is committed to supporting Florida’s diverse business industry and population through ensuring participation by minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises in the economic life of the state. The State of Florida Mentor Protégé Program connects minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises with private corporations for business development mentoring. We strongly encourage contractors doing business with the State of Florida to consider this initiative. For more information on the

Mentor Protégé Program, please contact the Office of Supplier Development at (850) 487-0915 or osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com.

FWC encourages diversity in its procurement program and requests that all subcontracting opportunities afforded by this solicitation enthusiastically embrace diversity. The award of subcontracts should reflect the vast array of citizens in the State of Florida. Bidders can visit the Office of Supplier Development website for information on certified business enterprises that may be considered for subcontracting opportunities. However, pursuant to Section 287.05701 F.S., the Commission may not request documentation of or consider a vendor’s social, political, or ideological interests when determining if the vendor is a responsible vendor, nor give preference to a vendor based on the vendor’s social, political, or ideological interests.

VERBAL INSTRUCTION PROCEDURE

Bidders may not consider any verbal instructions as binding upon the Commission. No negotiations, discussions, or actions shall be initiated or executed by the Bidder as a result of any discussion with any

Commission employee. Only those communications from the Commission that are in writing, may be considered as a duly authorized expression on behalf of the Commission.

SOLICITATION QUESTIONS

Any questions from Bidders that require an official FWC answer concerning this project shall be submitted in writing to the Procurement Manager. This includes specification inquiries, such as questions or requests mailto:bidrequest@myfwc.com?subject=Extension%20Request https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program mailto:osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 6 of 77 for additional or altered terms and conditions. Questions to the Procurement Manager shall not constitute formal protest of the specifications or of the solicitation. Questions must be received no later than the date and time specified in the Calendar of Events (Page 3). Questions may be sent via email with the solicitation number in the subject line. It is the responsibility of the bidder to confirm receipt of questions if needed.

If questions are received, an addendum will be issued and shall be posted on the Vendor Information Portal

(https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com).

LIMITATION ON BIDDER CONTACT DURING SOLICITATION PERIOD

Bidders to this solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the Commission posting the notice of intended award, (i.e., the 72-hour posting period excludes Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays) any employee or officer of the executive or legislative branch concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the Procurement Manager or as provided in the solicitation documents. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response.

BIDDER SPECIFICATION CHALLENGE

Any protest concerning the specifications of this solicitation shall be made in accordance with PUR1001, paragraph 20, “Protests”. A notice of protest of the solicitation documents shall be made within seventy-two hours after the posting of the solicitation. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section

120.57(3)(b), F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

ADDENDUMS

If the Commission finds it necessary to supplement, modify or interpret any portion of the specifications or documents or answer any Bidder questions during the ITB period an addendum shall be posted on the

Vendor Information Portal internet site. Each Bidder is responsible for monitoring the Vendor Information

Portal website (https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com) for new or changing information relative to this procurement. The Commission bears no responsibility for any delays, or resulting impacts, associated with a

Bidder’s failure to obtain the information made available through the Vendor Information Portal.

BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGMENT

In order for this bid to be valid, the bid must be completed in its entirety, signed by the Bidder and returned, as part of the bid or the bid will be rejected. By affixing your signature to the ITB Bidder Acknowledgement

Form (page 2), the Bidder hereby states that the Bidder has read all bid specifications and conditions and agrees to all terms, conditions, provisions, specifications, and is currently licensed to do business within the

State of Florida, if required by State or Federal Law, for the services or commodities the Bidder will provide the Commission under these bid specifications.

MANDATORY RESPONSIVE REQUIREMENTS

The Commission will not review Bids from Bidders who do not meet the mandatory responsive requirements listed in Attachment B, Mandatory Responsive Requirements. Note: The Commission will perform an initial responsiveness check. Bids found to be non-responsive will not be considered for award.

The Commission reserves the right to act upon information discovered during and after the initial responsiveness check impacting the responsibility or responsiveness of the Bid or Bidders.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 7 of 77

REFERENCES

Each prospective Bidder shall provide a minimum of three (3) references for similar projects completed.

Current contact names and phone numbers shall be included with the bid package. See the attached references form for reference requirements.

EQUAL BIDS

In the event that there is no multiple award contemplated in the ITB, and the Commission receives equal bids eligible for award, the Commission will comply with the following, as applicable: sections 287.057(12), 287.082, 287.087,287.092, 295.187(4)(a), and 295.187(4)(b), F.S. In order to clarify the Bidders’ status with regard to the applicable statutory preference requirements, the Commission may request information from

Bidders with equal bids. A Bidder will not be permitted to amend or supplement its Bid in response to such request for clarification. If the tie has not been broken by application of the aforementioned statutes, the

Commission will proceed with a random selection to decide the award.

SUPPORTING/SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The Commission requires that bidders submit all required technical, specification, and other supporting information with their bid, so that a detailed analysis and determination can be made, by the Contract

Manager that the product/service offered meets this ITB’s specifications and that other requirements of this ITB have been met. However, provided a bid meets the requirements for a definite, firm, unqualified, and unconditional offer, the Commission reserves the right to request supplemental information from the bidder after the bids have been opened to ensure that the products/services offered completely meet this

ITB’s requirements. The requirement for such supplemental information will be at the reasonable discretion of the Commission and may include the requirement that a bidder will provide a sample product(s) so that the Commission can make a first-hand examination and determination.

A bidder's failure to provide this supplemental information or the product sample(s), within the time set by the Commission, will cause the Commission to consider the Contractor non-responsive and reject the

Contractor’s bid.

CONFIDENTIALITY/PUBLIC RECORDS LAW

Bidders are cautioned that Florida law generously defines what constitutes a public record and grants broad rights of public access to those records; see, for example, section 119.07, F.S. If a Bidder believes that its response contains information that is confidential or exempt from disclosure under Florida Law, the Bidder shall clearly segregate and mark that information (for example, stamp each page "Confidential" and place it in an envelope marked "Confidential") and briefly describe in writing the grounds and specific legal citations for claiming exemption from the public records law. If after the notice of intended decision or thirty

(30) days after bid opening, whichever is earlier, the Commission receives a public record request related to the solicitation, the Commission will provide copies of public records that are not exempt to the requester.

The Commission will endeavor to provide notice to the Bidder of all public records requests received related to documents provided by the Bidder that were marked pursuant to this paragraph. In no event shall the

Bidder hold the Commission or any of its employees or agents liable for disclosing, or otherwise failing to protect the confidentiality of, information submitted in response to this solicitation.

MAILING INSTRUCTIONS

All bids shall be submitted in a SEALED ENVELOPE addressed to:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Attn: Purchasing

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 8 of 77

1875 Orange Ave E

Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160.

The envelope shall be plainly marked on the outside with: BID NUMBER, DATE AND TIME OF THE BID

OPENING.

THE COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPENING OF ANY ENVELOPES THAT ARE NOT PROPERLY

MARKED.

PLEASE NOTE: The Commission’s official business hours of operation are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ET, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays. Selecting delivery services, such as next day first delivery, may result in attempted delivery prior to opening or closing, and the Commission will not be available to accept those deliveries. THE COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LATE SUBMISSIONS DUE TO COMPLICATIONS

RELATED TO SELECTED DELIVERY SERVICES. DIGITAL SUBMISSIONS SHALL BE DEEMED NON-RESPONSIVE

AND SHALL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

SOLICITATION PUBLIC OPENING

The public opening of this bid will be conducted at the date, time and method specified on the Calendar of

Events (Page 3). BIDS RECEIVED AFTER THE SPECIFIED DATE AND TIME WILL BE REJECTED.

Any person with a qualified disability shall not be denied equal access and effective communication regarding any bid/proposal documents or the attendance at any related meeting or bid/proposal opening. If accommodations are needed because of a disability, please contact the Purchasing Section at (850) 488-6551 at least three (3) workdays prior to the opening.

AWARDED BID/INSPECTION

The Commission will award the bid to the responsive, responsible bidder who submits the lowest bid price.

If deemed necessary, an interview with the bidder by the Contract Manager may be required before the bid is awarded.

The Commission reserves the right to inspect the prospective Contractor’s materials and background record prior to making an award of the Contract. If the Contract Manager determines the lowest bidder does not have sufficient experience, equipment, etc. to meet the specifications of this ITB, the Commission reserves the right to reject the bidder and evaluate the next lowest bidder.

POSTING OF BID TABS

Bid Tabulations with Contractors identified as awarded bidders will be posted electronically as Agency

Decisions on the Department of Management Services Vendor Information Portal as a Public Notice. The

Agency Decision may be viewed at https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com, and will remain posted for a period of 72 hours. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3)(b), F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

Awarded Bidders are instructed not to proceed until a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice is given to the Contractor by the Commission. A company or person who proceeds prior to receiving a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice from the Commission does so without a contract and at their own risk.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 9 of 77

Sealed bids, proposals, or replies received by an agency pursuant to a competitive solicitation are exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution until such time as the agency provides notice of an intended decision or until thirty (30) days after opening the bids, proposals, or final replies, whichever is earlier.

SCOPE CHANGES AFTER CONTRACT EXECUTION

The Commission shall provide written notice to the successful bidder thirty (30) days in advance of any

Commission required changes to the technical specifications and/or scope of service that affect the successful bidder’s ability to provide the service as specified herein. Any changes that are other than purely administrative changes will require a change order.

FWC CONTRACT MANAGER

The FWC employee identified as the Contract Manager shall perform the following on behalf of the FWC:

• review, verify, and approve receipt of services/deliverables from the Contractor;

• submit requests for change orders/amendments/renewals, if applicable;

• review, verify, and approve invoices from the Contractor; and, if applicable, complete the

Certificate of Contract Completion form; and

• maintain an official record of all correspondence between the Commission and the Contractor and forward the original correspondence to the Procurement Manager for the official file.

DELIVERABLES

The following services or service tasks are identified as deliverables for the purposes of the subsequent

Contract:

a. Performance of all services set forth in the Scope of Work.

b. Submission of all invoicing, supporting documentation, Corrective Action Plans and reports.

LIQUIDATED DAMAGES

If the Contractor fails to complete the work or the conditions of the Purchase Order and/or Change Orders by the completion date, the Commission shall have the right to deduct liquidated damages from any amount due and payable to the Contractor. Liquidated damages shall be assessed in the amount of $100 per calendar day of delay. Exceptions to this provision may be made if a delay is attributable to circumstances that are clearly beyond the control of the Contractor. The burden of proof of unavoidable delay shall rest with the Contractor and shall be supplied in a written form and submitted to the Contract Manager.

WARRANTIES/DAMAGED ITEMS/DELIVERY

The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for providing or ensuring warranty coverage and/or warranty service on any and all items including goods, materials, or equipment provided to the Commission.

If Contractor is not the Manufacturer, all Manufacturer warranties must be passed through to the

Commission.

Delivery shall be made no later than the specified Delivery Date. The Contractor shall pay all costs associated with delivery and shall assume full responsibility for all item(s) damaged prior to the F.O.B.

destination delivery and agree to hold harmless the Commission of all responsibility for prosecuting damage claims.

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0100-0199/0119/Sections/0119.07.html

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 10 of 77

The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for replacement of all defective or damaged goods within thirty (30) days of notice by the Commission of such defect or damage.

GUARANTEE

If products do not comply with the specifications contained herein, the Contractor shall replace the product(s), or the purchase price shall be refunded. The refund or the delivery of the replacement product(s) shall be made within thirty (30) days following the Contract Manager’s notification to the Contractor that the original product(s) was non-compliant. Costs of returning the original product(s) will be the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT ON COMMISSION PROPERTY

If the Commission allows the Contractor to have project materials or equipment delivered to and/or stored upon the Commission-managed or owned property before, during, or after the term of the project, the

Contractor will be fully and solely responsible for all expenses and liability incurred as a result of the delivery or storage. Should the Commission, in its sole discretion, determine that any project materials or equipment stored on its property must be moved in response to an emergency, the Contractor shall hold harmless, indemnify, defend, and may be responsible for costs of any reasonably necessary actions taken by the Commission.

AUTHORIZED COMPENSATION

It is understood and agreed that all compensation under this ITB is specifically limited to the Contractor’s bid price accepted by the Commission, and to the specific procedure for payment established in this ITB and the Purchase Order executed pursuant to it. The Commission is not liable for any costs, fees, expenses or any other compensation whatsoever incurred or charged by the Contractor, other than the bid price paid for the work specifically described in the Scope of Work, which work is actually accomplished and invoiced by the Contractor subsequent to the Commission’s notice to proceed (or other notice to begin work). Thus, the Commission is not liable for any costs incurred or charged by the Contractor in anticipation of responding to, or performing work described in, this ITB including, but not limited to, equipment or personnel procured by the Contractor in anticipation of such work. The Commission is not responsible to the Contractor for any loss or damages resulting from circumstances unforeseen at the time of publication of this ITB including, but not limited to, those resulting from a “force majeure”.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL REQUIREMENT

All corporations seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting a bid, be on file with the Department of State in accordance with provisions of Chapter 607, F.S.; similarly, partnerships seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting such bid, have complied with the applicable provisions of Chapter 620, F.S. For further information on required filing and forms, please go to the following sites: http://sunbiz.org or http://dos.myflorida.com.

USE OF CONTRACT BY OTHER STATE AGENCIES AND ELIGIBLE USERS

As provided in Chapter 60A-1.045, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), and Section 287.042(16), F.S., other State of Florida agencies may purchase from the resulting contract of this ITB, provided that the

Department of Management Services has determined the contract’s use is cost effective and in the best interest of the State, and with the Contractor’s consent.

Other State of Florida governmental entities and eligible users may also request of the Contractor to be able to use this contract. If the Contractor agrees to other entities to utilize this ITB contract, such agencies http://www.sunbiz.org/ http://dos.myflorida.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 11 of 77 shall coordinate their use of this contract with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in order to reduce scheduling conflicts.

CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

The bidder is required to examine carefully the conditions and specifications of this bid and to be thoroughly informed regarding any and all requirements of the conditions and specifications.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 12 of 77

SCOPE OF WORK #1

FWC 25/26-85

TWO AIRBOAT BUILD ENGINES & TRAILERS

PROJECT #1

NOTE: Projects #1 and #2 are the exact same build and specifications except Project #2 has no grass rake

15” x 8” Airboat Hull, Engine, and Trailer

PURPOSE

The intent of these specifications is to describe and establish construction requirements for a heavy-duty airboat (with trailer) to be used by the COMMISSION as a workboat. The airboat shall be capable of transporting people in continuous operation during both high and low water conditions. The airboat will be used in harsh conditions.

The airboat required and covered by these specifications shall be the manufacture's latest basic production model and shall be equipped with all new standard equipment in accordance with the manufacture's latest literature, a copy of which must accompany the bidder’s response along with any and all specifications necessary to verify that the unit either meets or exceeds each and every of the following:

complete hull, engine cage, rudders, controls, elevated seating for five (5) occupants, 525 horsepower, 7.4L

Levitator MS.70 airboat engine with propeller, produced by a manufacturer of airboats that has been in the business of constructing airboats a minimum of twelve (12) consecutive months and constructed a minimum of twenty (20) airboats.

Products/materials being supplied shall include the following or they will not be accepted:

1. GENERAL

1.1. The airboat shall be fully operational upon delivery.

1.2. The airboat shall conform to all federal, state, and marine safety regulations.

1.3. The airboat shall meet eligibility for State of Florida Marine Vessel Registration.

1.4. The airboat shall be constructed in accordance with or exceed industry standards for this type of vessel. The use of reconditioned or used parts will not be accepted.

1.5. Marine Grade Aluminum Alloy to be used.

2. BOAT CONSTRUCTION

2.1. New fifteen (15) foot aluminum hull (one (1) piece bottom – NO splicing).

2.2. Eight (8) foot beam width.

2.3. Minimum, twenty-six (26) inch gunnel height at midship.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 13 of 77

2.4. Minimum twenty (20) inch height of transom. Transom to have a minimum 10” splash guard extending to the rear across the entire width of the stern.

2.5. Rolled non-trip chine. Raised outside edge at radius. Lifting and turning strakes welded to the hull.

2.6. Minimum 36" covered foredeck coated with a light gray colored non-skid finish and lockable underdeck storage.

2.7. Lockable underdeck storage with a flush-mounted aluminum deck lid, framed with two-inch (2”) aluminum channel with two (2) drain tubes extended into hull.

2.8. Minimum 6” wide walking boards on airboat sides to allow for easy access to rear seats.

2.9. Walking boards to have the same light gray non-skid finish as specified for the covered foredeck.

2.10. Foredeck to be strengthened as necessary to provide adequate support for two 200 lb. people.

2.11. Deck and sides to be of minimum 0.125" 5052 marine alloy aluminum; bottom and transom to be of minimum 0.190: 6061-T6 aluminum.

2.12. Hull braces shall be evenly spaced across the bottom and consist of a minimum of 7 (seven) longitudinal T-bars 2” X 2” X ¼” 6061- T6 aluminum w/ 0.190 aluminum gussets on every T-Bar at the transom.

2.13. A minimum of 1-3" Aluminum I-beam cross brace at midship.

2.14. Two 1.5” threaded aluminum drain plug ports shall be welded where the transom meets the hull bottom and fitted with threaded 1.5” National Pipe Thread (NPT, coarse thread) cleanout plugs.

2.15. Swirl coat shall be applied to the hull interior.

3. POLYMER

3.1. Exterior hull bottom shall be form-fitted with a minimum of ¼” thick Ultra High Molecular Weight

Polymer.

3.2. Polymer shall extend the full width of the hull and from the rear of the hull forward to within 18" of the foremost part of the bow.

3.3. Polymer sheet joints, if required, must have a 45-degree angle overlap so that the forward section overlaps the aft section.

3.4. Polymer is to be fastened to the hull utilizing stainless steel screws with countersunk heads tapped into the aluminum hull.

3.5. Polymer screws shall be arranged, at a minimum, 3" on center along the outside edges and 5" X 6" pattern in all remaining areas.

3.6. Ends of the screws shall be flush with or not more than 1/16” above the floor of the boat.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 14 of 77

4. SEATING

4.1. Operator port and side passenger (starboard) “fat man” style seat mounted centered, to the front of, and a minimum of 8” below the rear passenger bench seat.

4.2. Separate three (3)-passenger “fat man” bench seat mounted in the rear of and centered on the operator and side passenger seats.

4.3. Operator seat and side passenger seat row shall include a storage area underneath that is constructed with 13-gauge stainless wire 1” X 2” welded wire mesh, welded at each contact point with the seat bracing.

4.4. Passenger bench seat row shall include fully enclosed storage compartments(s) underneath the seats constructed of aluminum with a front access door with a flush-mounted latch. Storage cabinets shall be powder-coated black.

4.5. Seats to be covered with removable light gray vinyl material.

4.6. Seats shall include matching weather-resistant rain covers.

4.7. Color shall match light gray.

4.8. All seat framing and bracing material is to be of stainless-steel tubing.

4.9. All footrests shall be covered with a solid 1/8” aluminum or stainless steel plate with stainless steel support framing underneath. A minimum of 8” between the footrest and the front fore deck. All footrests shall be covered with a light gray non-skid surface.

4.10. Handholds shall be installed on the bottom of each side of passenger seats and one (1) on the driver’s seat for safety (can vary if instrument cluster arrangement does not allow this).

4.11. All stainless-steel construction.

5. PROPELLER GUARD

5.1. The framework is to be constructed of 7/8” and 1” 0.065 stainless steel tubing, covered with 13-gauge stainless wire 2" X 4" mesh.

5.2. Wire to be welded to framing at all contact points. In lieu of stainless wire 2” X 4” mesh on a portion of the guard, stainless steel expanded metal shall be placed on the sides of the propeller guard closest to the stern, up to the fourth J-bar, to protect against objects entering the guard.

5.3. There shall be a minimum 3" clearance for the propeller guard, sides, and the bottom of the boat.

5.4. The propeller guard shall completely enclose the engine and propeller area.

5.5. The propeller guard shall have one starboard-side and one port-side access door for maintenance accessibility, of identical metal tubing and wire mesh as the rest of the propeller guard.

5.6. Doors shall be hinged and have gas shock struts and latching devices.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 15 of 77

5.7. The propeller guard shall have three (3) steps that are above and centered on the rear passenger seat. The first step shall be even with the top of the rear seat. The second step shall be midway between the first and third step, and the third step shall be even with the top of the propeller guard.

Each step shall measure fifteen (15) inches wide and thirteen (13) inches deep. Each step shall be supported by stainless steel tubing that is welded to the framing tubs of the propeller guard.

5.8. One (1) set of LED flood lights, minimum size 4.25” X 3”, shall be mounted inside and on port and starboard sides of the propeller guard, below the top of the guard.

5.9. Stern navigational light shall be mounted inside and centered at the top of the propeller guard.

5.10. The propeller guard is to be built so that it can be removed from the engine stand for engine service.

5.11. All stainless-steel construction.

6. ENGINE STAND

6.1. The framework is to be constructed of 1” and ¾” stainless steel tubing, main runners of engine stand to be of 1.5” X 1.5” X 3/16” stainless steel angle.

6.2. The engine is to be mounted at a minimum of four points using rubber motor mounts.

6.3. The engine frame is to include mounting brackets for two batteries and one gas tank.

6.4. Gas tank and batteries to be mounted on the floor to provide a low center of gravity.

6.5. Battery brackets can be mounted low on the engine stand.

6.6. All stainless-steel construction.

7. STEERING

7.1. To be 3/8” stainless steel Teleflex or equivalent cable steering with left-hand directional control stick, with stainless steel Heim joints.

7.2. Directional control stick shall have an aluminum billet steering grip.

7.3. The steering cable shall be mounted and secured to the propeller guard using stainless steel hardware at fixed mounting points.

8. THROTTLE

8.1. Teleflex, or approved equivalent, cable with pedal stop to be located for use with the right foot.

9. FUEL TANK

9.1. Constructed, at a minimum, of 0.125” 5052 marine alloy and to hold approximately 40 gallons.

9.2. Fuel tank mounted in shock-absorbing rubber.

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10. RUDDERS

10.1. Boat shall have two (2), forty-eight-inch (48") airfoil design with urethane foam filling for rigidity, welded aluminum, and each shall have a trim tab.

10.2. Rudders to be fitted with polymer bushings located at top and bottom of each rudder.

10.3. Rudder rods shall be constructed of 3/8” diameter stainless steel.

10.4. Rudders should have a field of turn of at least 130 degrees and a maximum acute angle of the turning rudder of 25 degrees.

11. INSTRUMENTATION

11.1. Instrumentation and control panel of aluminum box type construction to be mounted between the operators' and the passenger’s seat. The construction of the instrumentation and control panel must be safely within the driver’s reach and easily visible while seated. Panel shall be powder-coated black.

11.2. Lighted instrumentation to include temperature, oil pressure, voltmeter, hour meter, gas gauge, and tachometer wired and connected.

11.3. Keyed ignition and three (3) black rubber booted toggle two position switches to be installed and connected to running lights, spotlights, and bilge pump. Two (2) additional two-position switches shall be installed for future accessories to be installed on the boat, for a total of (5) two-position switches.

11.4. Control panel shall include two 12-volt “cigarette lighter” style plugs or two USB-A plugs.

11.5. Instrument and control panel shall have a vinyl, weather-resistant rain cover matching the light gray color of the seat covers.

11.5.1. Note: Electric fuel pump wiring should be connected to the ignition switch so there is no chance that fuel is being pumped with the ignition switch in the off position.

12. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

12.1. 12-volt system with dual batteries controlled by a battery selector switch capable of isolating an individual battery or utilizing both batteries at once.

12.2. All necessary wiring shall be included and shall be fuse-protected.

12.3. Approved running lights and navigation lights shall be installed and tested.

13. HARDWARE

13.1. All hardware, including but not limited to nuts, bolts, washers, screws, rivets, hinges, and hose clamps, shall be made of marine-grade stainless steel.

13.2. All fastening hardware shall be of nylon locknut type, where possible.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 17 of 77

14. BILGE PUMPS

14.1. Minimum of two (2) 2000-gallon-per-hour bilge pumps mounted one on the port and one on the starboard side, with 1 1/8” discharge hose each with through-hull discharge.

14.2. Pumps may be connected to the same switch on the instrument panel.

15. GRASS RAKE

15.1. Thirty-six-inch (36”) solid aluminum grass rake with step having non-skid light grey finish, side navigation lights, and flush mount/recessed pull-up bow cleat in the center of the top step.

15.2. Grass rake shall be easily removable.

15.3. Design shall include “cushion-type-fail-first” construction in order to protect the hull in case of impact.

15.4. Shall include covered hull nose roll.

16. PAINT

16.1. All aluminum and stainless-steel metal works shall be left unpainted

16.2. Gray non-skid paint shall be applied to the front deck, footrests, grass rake step, and side walking boards.

16.3. Instrument panel and enclosed storage area under the front operator and passenger seats shall be painted black powder coat.

16.4. All non-aluminum and non-stainless steel, ferrous metal work shall be painted black powder coat.

16.4.1. Note: Metal framework is of stainless-steel construction and should not require painting. Hull and rigging shall be left bare aluminum/stainless steel. Therefore, the ONLY painted surfaces should be the front deck, grass rake step, footrests, and walking boards, and shall be painted with a non-skid deck paint. Paint color should be of light gray or the closest equivalent.

17. ENGINE

17.1. New 7.4-liter Levitator Performance Airboat Engines MS.70 engine with aluminum heads and intake manifold or equivalent, water cooled.

17.2. The radiator is to be aluminum and mounted above the engine and supported by bracketing on the propeller guard.

17.3. Engine is to be fitted with 2.3 to 1 belt drive reduction unit or equivalent.

17.4. Exhaust system to be stainless steel flex pipe attached to propeller guard above the deck and vented at the rear of the boat through stainless steel (baffled) mufflers.

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17.5. A new, minimum 60-amp alternator shall be included.

17.6. Engine shall have an electric starter, an electric fuel pump, and a water-seperated spin-on canister-type fuel filter.

17.7. The engine is to be appropriately vented to prevent crankcase pressure.

18. PROPELLER

18.1. Shall be a Sensenich 3-blade carbon fiber wide propeller or FWC staff-approved equivalent of the appropriate length and pitch to ensure maximum performance and engine life.

19. WATER COOLING SYSTEM

19.1. Heavy-duty large aluminum radiator (31” x 25”) with expanded metal radiator guard mounted to the rear of the radiator. Expanded metal shall be treated (e.g., wire-brushed) to remove any sharp edges.

19.2. Radiator shall be mounted inside propeller guard behind rear seats and above the engine using rubber shock-mounts (with enough space to allow an engine cover to pass below) and have sufficient cooling capacity to maintain correct operating temperature under tropical conditions, maximum engine load.

19.3. Shall include an aluminum expansion tank.

19.4. All hoses shall be Marine Premium Grade quality, which meets or exceeds airboat industry standards.

20. OIL COOLER

20.1. Large (minimum 24” x 12”) heavy-duty oil cooler with stainless steel braided oil lines connected to the engine and securely mounted inside the propeller guard in such a way as to provide appropriate oil flow and cooling.

21. TRAILER SPECIFICATIONS

21.1. Trailer size - designed to fit a 15' X 8' aluminum airboat hull with engine.

21.2. Frame and fenders - all metal to be galvanized and made of sufficient material to withstand daily use.

21.3. Trailer shall include fenders with aluminum step panels fore and aft.

21.4. Coupler - 2" ball and two (2) heavy-duty safety chains with "S" hook attachments.

21.5. Axle - Trailer shall have tandem axles, of sufficient capacity to carry the above-specified boat with equipment and fuel.

21.6. Axle must have "Bearing Buddies" or equivalent to maintain proper lubrication of wheel bearings.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 19 of 77

21.7. Wheel and tires – 15” tires of sufficient load range to carry the above-specified boat.

21.8. Spare tire/hub spindle type mount with matching spare tire and complete rim and spare hub assembly installed on front passenger/starboard side.

21.9. Bow stop with winch (2-speed heavy-duty hand crank) located such that the grass rake doesn’t interfere with the operation of the winch; Minimum four-inch (4”) clearance between winch handle and grass rake. Winch stand shall include winch with heavy-duty belt and a galvanized safety chain

(1/2” diameter) with hook mounted below bow stop.

21.10. Tongue jack -heavy-duty tongue jack with dolly wheel.

21.11. Bunks - bottom and side guide bunks to be made of 2” X 6” pressure-treated lumber. All bunks to be carpeted. Trailer shall have left and right horizontal rear side bunks that extend from the stern end of the trailer to the forward edge of the fenders (so the boat cannot make direct contact with the fenders when loading) and two (2) twelve-inch (12”) rear roller ramps.

21.12. Trailer shall include heavy-duty, stainless steel ratchet tie downs mounted directly on the rear of the trailer frame on both sides

21.13. Lighting and wiring system - the trailer shall be equipped with LED brake/signal/running and side marker lights. The system shall be a Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) approved lighting system.

21.14. Lights shall be submersible.

22. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

22.1. All components of the boat must conform to the requirements of the best marine quality and marine practice for the intended service of the boat as a state boat in continual service.

22.2. Manufacturer warrants the basic hull and components of the boat to be free from defects in material and workmanship under state use and service. Manufacturer's obligation limited to making good at its factory any part or parts thereof which shall within 1 year (12 months) after delivery become defective. All components of the boat to be warranted for a period of three (3) months after delivery date. The above warranty provisions shall not apply to products that have been subject to misuse, negligence, or accident.

22.3. Manufacturer's written warranty, service policy, invoice, and statement of origin shall be delivered with the boat.

22.4. Upon completion and before acceptance by the State, a thorough inspection will be made of the hull, equipment, trailer, and engine.

22.5. The awarded Vendor must provide the airboats, motors, and trailers for inspection and provide delivery within the State of Florida. Vendor must contact Commission staff regarding inspection and pick up/delivery once each of the two builds have been completed.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 02.11.2026 FWC 25/26-85, Page 20 of 77

SCOPE OF WORK #2

FWC 25/26-85

TWO AIRBOAT BUILD ENGINES & TRAILERS

PROJECT #2

NOTE: Projects #1 and #2 are the exact same build and specifications, except Project #2 has no grass rake.

15’ x 8’ Airboat Hull, Engine, and Trailer

PURPOSE

The intent of these specifications is to describe and establish construction requirements for a heavy-duty airboat (with trailer) to be used by the COMMISSION as a workboat. The airboat shall be capable of transporting people in continuous operation during both high and low water conditions. The airboat will be used in harsh conditions.

The airboat required and covered by these specifications shall be the manufacture's latest basic production model and shall be equipped with all new standard equipment in accordance with the manufacture's latest literature, a copy of which must accompany the bidder’s response along with any and all specifications necessary to verify that the unit either meets or exceeds each and every of the following:

complete hull, engine cage, rudders, controls, elevated seating for five (5) occupants, 525 horsepower, 7.4L

Levitator MS.70 airboat engine with propeller, produced by a manufacturer of airboats that has been in the business of constructing airboats a minimum of twelve (12) consecutive months and constructed a minimum of twenty (20) airboats.

Products/materials being supplied shall include the following or they will not be accepted:

1. GENERAL

1.1. The airboat shall be fully operational upon delivery.

1.2. The airboat shall conform to all federal, state, and marine safety regulations.

1.3. The airboat shall meet eligibility for State of Florida Marine Vessel Registration.

1.4. The airboat shall be constructed in accordance with or exceed industry standards for this type of vessel. The use of reconditioned or used parts will not be accepted.

1.5. Marine Grade Aluminum Alloy to be used.

2. BOAT CONSTRUCTION

2.1. New fifteen (15) foot aluminum hull (one (1) piece bottom – NO splicing).

2.2. Eight (8) foot beam width.

2.3. Minimum, twenty-six (26) inch gunnel height at midship.

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2.4. Minimum twenty (20) inch height of transom. Transom to have a minimum 10” splash guard extending to the rear across the entire width of the stern.

2.5. Rolled non-trip chine. Raised outside edge at radius. Lifting and turning strakes welded to the hull.

2.6. Minimum 36" covered foredeck coated with a light gray colored non-skid finish and lockable underdeck storage.

2.7. Lockable underdeck storage with a flush-mounted aluminum deck lid, framed with two-inch (2”) aluminum channel with two (2) drain tubes extended into hull.

2.8. Minimum 6” wide walking boards on airboat sides to allow for easy access to rear seats.

2.9. Walking boards to have the same light gray non-skid finish as specified for the covered foredeck.

2.10. Foredeck to be strengthened as necessary to provide adequate support for two, 200 lb.