FWC 26.27-26 Final Draft.pdf

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

1875 ORANGE AVE E

TALLAHASSEE, FL 32311-6160

(850) 488-6551

Dinner Island Ranch WMA Custom Swamp Buggy

FWC 26/27-26

INVITATION TO BID

ITB BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Purpose: The intent of this bid is to obtain competitive pricing for a custom-built Jeep-style buggy to be used on Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area, 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 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 3 of 78

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FWC 26/27-26

SCHEDULE DUE DATE METHOD

Bid Advertised September 23, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal (VIP)

Deadline for Questions

Must be received PRIOR to:

September 30, 2026

@ 5:00 PM ET

See Solicitation Questions Clause

Anticipated date for Responses to Written Questions

October 6, 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:

October 13, 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 October 13, 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: 850.270.2928

Conference room number: 408-709-264

Anticipated Date of Intended Award October 16, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 4 of 78

GENERAL CONDITIONS

FWC 26/27-26

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_purchasing_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.

PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Xavier Wilson xavier.wilson@myfwc.com 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 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 5 of 78

TERM

The contract will be effective for 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 NOT 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.

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 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).

mailto:bidrequest@myfwc.com?subject=Extension%20Request 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 mailto:osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 6 of 78

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.

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

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 7 of 78 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 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.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 8 of 78

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.

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 https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ 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 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 9 of 78

• 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.

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.

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”.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 10 of 78

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 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.

http://www.sunbiz.org/ http://dos.myflorida.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 11 of 78

SCOPE OF WORK

FWC 26/27-26

DINNER ISLAND RANCH WMA CUSTOM SWAMP BUGGY

PURPOSE

The intent of this ITB is to obtain competitive pricing for and purchase a jeep-style swamp buggy, and alternate bid items to be used by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The buggy shall be capable of safely and efficiently transporting people and equipment through mud, rocky or uneven terrain, and wet marshes and swamps typically found in south Florida. All parts and equipment shall be new or remanufactured to original equipment manufacturers’ specifications. No junk yard, salvage, or “as is” parts will be accepted.

1. MINIMUM VENDOR QUALIFICATIONS

1.1. Bidders shall have manufactured a minimum of five (5) swamp buggies, in the past 10 years, used in support of prescribed burning, habitat management, and/or fire suppression activities. At least one (1) of these buggies must have been built for a government entity. Bidders shall provide information regarding their experience building swamp buggies on the attached Experience Form (ATTACHMENT D).

Bidders shall specify the intended use of each previously built swamp buggy and the specialized equipment installed by the bidder for each build listed on the Experience Form.

1.2. Bidders shall provide a minimum of three (3) references that may be contacted for details of previous buggy builds, at least one (1) of which shall be a government entity.

2. PAYMENT AND INSPECTION SCHEDULE

2.1. The payment will be broken down into 5 equal payments. Each payment will represent one-fifth of the overall accepted total bid price. Payments will follow the schedule below based on the completion and inspection of the identified items. All required inspections will be conducted at the Contractor’s facility. The Contractor shall coordinate with the FWC Project Manager to schedule each required inspection. The Contractor shall complete all work, including final inspection and delivery, no later than June 30, 2027. The final product shall satisfactorily meet all specifications contained herein prior to final acceptance.

a. 20% Frame, running gear and suspension, and upper structure assembly.

b. 20% Wheels, tires, motor, transmission, transfer case assembly, and pre-paint inspection.

c. 20% Console steering, seats, rail, rear deck, and step assembly.

d. 20% Fuel tank, water tank, torch tank, stowage boxes, deck assembly prior to coating, and shocks prior to final welds.

e. 20% Final inspection and delivery.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 12 of 78

2.2. The Contractor and FWC Project Manager will coordinate the addition of any accepted alternates to the above inspection schedule where appropriate prior to initiating the build.

2.3. This payment schedule follows the required inspection schedule, whereby no additional work is to be performed until previous work is approved by the FWC Contract or Project Manager and decisions are made to clarify the specifications for items identified in the bid packages as “to be determined.”

3. SPECIFICATIONS: BASE BID – SWAMP BUGGY

3.1. The final product shall be a complete and functional jeep-style vehicle (Figure 1) in all respects and require no additional parts or modifications to be safely and efficiently used for travel over and through roads, rocky or uneven terrain, mud, and wet marshes/swamps typical of south Florida.

4. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

4.1. Vehicle shall be easy to operate in field conditions and easy to maintain for preventative maintenance purposes.

4.2. All parts shall be new or remanufactured to original equipment manufacturers’ specifications. Typed written receipts shall be provided to the FWC Project Manager to validate all parts acquisitions. When brand names are specified, state approved equivalents are acceptable. Equivalent approval shall be done by the FWC Project Manager.

4.3. Dry road speed must be a maximum of twenty (20) miles per hour (mph). The swamp buggy must be designed and constructed to not sway, shimmy, or shake when operated at all speeds. Any issues related to sway, shimmy, or shake identified during the applicable one-year warranty period shall be corrected by the Contractor in accordance with the warranty requirements.

4.4. Power steering hydraulic cylinder assist, and 40 feet (ft.) maximum turning radius are required to provide excellent maneuverability.

4.5. Properly positioned controls and instrumentation are required to provide maximum operator access and view of required gauges and accessories.

5. WARRANTY AND PARTS LIST

5.1. Successful bidder will supply a parts list of all commercially manufactured components that will include part, source, part number, and model (if applicable).

5.2. All components, labor, and workmanship shall carry a minimum of one (1) year warranty. A copy of the warranty(s) shall be delivered with the unit. Any modifications to parts used shall be listed with the respective modifications and explanation of why it was modified.

5.3. Successful bidder will provide an easy-to-understand guide and schedule of routine maintenance and care instructions, including fluid types and volumes at the completion of project.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-26, Page 13 of 78

6. ENGINE

6.1. Engine must be a new GMC 4.3L-V6, Crate Motor. 80-amp alternator, non-computer electronic ignition with electric fuel pump. High torque starter is required. Steel tube exhaust headers, ceramic coated to prevent corrosion, are required. Air cleaner shall be K&N Brand cleanable, K&N 60 series or similar. All engine parts shall be new or remanufactured. Serpentine drive belts are required, no v-belts shall be accepted.

6.2. Electric starter and alternator system will be installed with shields and/or guards such as to provide protection from water damage and overheating from engine in field conditions.

6.3. Exhaust system shall include dual exhaust with mufflers to be quiet and without leaks. Exhaust system shall be routed to the rear of the buggy along and outside of the frame, underneath the deck and come out at side rear end.

6.4. Cooling system: The radiator must be an aluminum three (3) core, heavy duty assembly equipped with a cooling fan and shroud. In addition, an external heavy duty transmission cooler (Hayden model 405 or approved equivalent) shall be mounted and protected with a fabricated guard to prevent external damage from potential obstructions in front of the radiator. Note: Fabricated guard must allow easy access for repair and cleaning of external transmission cooler and radiator. New radiator or radiator reworked by radiator shop which must include new radiator core and heavy-duty transmission oil cooler.

All new hoses, thermostat, radiator cap, and new pump that meet or exceed original equipment manufacturers’ (OEM) specifications are required. Also included shall be a small screen guard in front of radiator (to prevent small debris from going into radiator vents).

6.5. Engine shall have removable shields on each side so that components are protected from field conditions but accessible for repairs.

6.6. Fuel tank: Custom built welded aluminum step-tank to fit between driver seat and upper deck of buggy;

twenty to thirty (20-30) gallons with fuel gauge mounted on dash and a visual sight gauge attached to the tank; vented at top of tank, not on deck floor. Vent location can be settled at the 75% inspection.

Fuel tank must be constructed to meet or exceed industry standards for off-road vehicles and be protected from outdoor weather environment. Tapered for draining and a manual fuel tank drain cock shall be installed and protected from obstructions, yet easy to access. Must be able to operate without use of tools. Fuel tank must have accessible mounting brackets for easy removal and cleaning as required. Inline fuel filter/water separator must be easily accessible and protected from extreme elements and it needs to have a built-in drain cock to drain water (Figure 7).

7. DRIVE TRAIN

7.1. Transmission: GM Turbo 350. Shift kit is to be installed and vent is to extend to deck. Three (3) speed automatic with overdrive and new oil cooler system are required, Hayden brand part #405 or approved equivalent. Shifter shall be on the column.

7.2. Transfer case: “FTI Sniper” or equivalent. Case vented to container under deck (oil reservoir) approximately 12 oz. capacity.

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a. Axles and differentials:

i. Front axle must be Dana 60 Front 4:88

ii. Rear axle must be GM 14-Bolt full Floater Rear 4:88.

iii. Four coped axle tie-down tabs (two on front axle, two on rear axle) cut to match the specific tube diameter, placed either on the front side or the rear side of the axle tubes, angled slightly upward, and placed as close as possible to the leaf spring perches or link mounts.

iv. Front and rear differentials shall be “tapped on the underside so water can be easily drained from the center unit.

7.3. All gear boxes and axles with lockers must be able to use multi-gear oil with no additives.

7.4. U-joints: Hardened performance type. All U-joints installed on buggy shall have grease zerks and there must be sufficient access to each zerk to grease with a handheld grease gun

8. SUSPENSION

8.1. Front: 1-ton leaf springs from heavy duty truck with load leveler shocks, leafs will be added or removed as necessary. Gas-charged shock absorbers shall be installed in a manner such that steering, and maneuverability are not compromised. Spring shackles must be installed in a manner such that they do not break.

8.2. Rear: 1 -ton leaf springs with load leveler and gas charged shock absorbers. Buggy shall be able to carry a minimum of 2 tons (gear, 200-gallon water, burn fuel tank, gas tank).

8.3. Steering and Brakes:

a. Steering type: Full hydraulic steering, Char-Lynn #211-1008 or approved equivalent, with shielding for hoses.

b. Tilt steering column.

c. Steering column: Standard steering column and wheel or approved equivalent, with upgraded knuckle.

d. Turns, lock to lock: Turning circle shall be forty (40) feet, maximum diameter. Stump guards shall be installed if tie rods are not located behind axle.

e. Brakes: To include new disk brakes mounted to transfer case or equivalent at input of transfer case, hydraulic, foot operated. Wildwood caliper and master cylinder required with foot pedal.

Master cylinder shall be easy to reach and fill and be protected from field conditions.

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9. WHEELS AND TIRES

9.1. Wheels and tires: new wheels shall be used with high floatation tires, front and rear, to protect from terrain.

9.2. Wheel size and type: Rim width 12.0 inches. All four (4) rims must match width of cut axles. Weld beads to prevent tire slippage. Valve stems will be protected from physical damage by short pipe and cap or other approved type.

9.3. Tire inflation pressures: Manufacturer’s recommendations.

9.4. Tire size: Four (4) new Goodyear American Farm 14.9/-24 or prior approved alternative.

9.5. Dimensions and Measurements:

a. Wheelbase: ~108 inches

b. Overall length: ~204 inches.

c. Overall width: ~91 inches.

d. Overall height of buggy upper deck to ground: ~63.5 inches.

e. Overall height of buggy lower deck to ground: ~40.5 inches.

f. Overall width of buggy upper deck: ~86 inches.

g. Overall length of upper deck: ~65 inches.

h. Bumper to bumper length: ~200 inches.

i. Weight not to exceed 6,700 lbs.

10. CHASSIS/BODY

10.1. Frame:

a. Frame: 38” wide custom built with 1/4” x 2” x 4” steel box tubing.

b. Fabricated engine, transmission, steering and suspension mounting brackets. Note: All brackets will be welded with closed welds. Brass bushings with grease fittings.

c. Fabricate and install steel engine skid plate for additional engine protection.

d. Install front and rear tow pins and a 2” receiver under front and rear bumper.

10.2. Lower Deck:

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a. Two (2) captain seats behind engine compartment.

b. Engine hood shall be hinged onto deck of buggy or where is more applicable with a secure t-style rubber latch to prevent opening unless used for repair access.

c. Dash/instrument panel shall be recessed, so that gauges, fuses, and switches are accessible and sit directly in front of driver’s seat on the left side of buggy.

d. Flat floored with aluminum tread plate (minimum of 1/8” thick; covered with a nonskid, grit- type coating or paint).

10.3. Upper Deck:

a. Two (2) aluminum storage compartments behind the two (2) captain seats.

b. Flat floored with aluminum tread plate (minimum of 1/8” thick; covered with a nonskid, grit- type coating or paint).

c. Minimum of two (2) aluminum vertical and two (2) horizontal (per side) 2” x 2” x 3/16” deck support railings capable of holding 200 lbs. The lower horizontal railings shall be no more than 4” above the aluminum boxes top with aluminum expanded metal all the way around. All deck and railing corners to be rounded to remove sharp edges for safety. Expanded metal will be welded to railing frame. Attached to deck with stainless steel screws.

10.4. Seats:

a. Two (2) one-person (1) high back, arm rest, adjustable seats (no substitutions), mounted on individual fabricated frames that will not tilt forward, but are adjustable for passenger leg lengths. Individual seat frames will be mounted above custom storage boxes that will open forward.

b. The height from bottom seat to deck shall be no more than 14” high. Each seat shall have interior armrests and shall be positioned so that seat occupants do not obstruct shifting.

c. Seat anchor mounting supports and storage box frame shall be reinforced to prevent metal fatigue or failure in case of rollover or accident.

d. The swamp buggy shall provide seating for a minimum of six (6) occupants, consisting of one (1) driver seat, one (1) passenger seat, and two (2) bench seats capable of seating a minimum of two

(2) occupants per bench. No school bus seats shall be permitted. Extra storage boxes may be included but shall be removable

10.5. Storage boxes:

a. Seat storage boxes shall be mounted below each seat and open forward.

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b. Dedicated area either on front or back bumper for aluminum perimeter basket . Baset should be welded and sized to the outer dimensions of a standard 50-quart cooler and should be able to securely store cooler in place while allowing access.

c. Two (2), top loading storage compartments shall be placed on the deck of the buggy behind the seats on the passenger side and driver side of upper deck. Driver side toolbox shall be mounted slightly away from the railing to allow room for a tube-style hand‑tool storage holder. This tube-style holder shall be installed between the driver side railing and the seat and sized to accommodate a fire rake, flapper, and fire shovel. The storage system must include a reliable method of securing the tools, such as a latch, strap, or pin-style retainer to prevent them from falling out during transport. Location and size of boxes will be determined at 75% inspection.

d. Top of storage boxes will be used as seats with built in backrest or padding attached to railing behind, with removable cushions are required.

10.6. Water tank:

a. Polyethylene tank mounted over rear axle of buggy, under deck area. With minimum 4- inch filler opening at top deck surface offset so equipment will not get hung up during loading and unloading. Able to hold at least 200 gallons. Must be removable and have 1 inch drain ball valves.

10.7. Burn Fuel Tank:

a. Aluminum welded tank mounted behind the upper deck bench seats with a minimum of 2-inch filler hole with a screw top or quarter turn vented watertight cap. The filler point shall be positioned at the deck surface with enough offset to prevent equipment from catching during loading and unloading. Tank must be able to hold at least 10 gallons. Must be removable and have ¾ inch drain ball valves that can be operated from ground level. The design shall allow the tank to function as burn‑mix storage for refilling drip torches.

10.8. Fire Potholders:

a. Install two aluminum mounting brackets to securely fit standard sized handheld drip torches.

Brackets must be welded and mounted in a way that can be accessed from the ground and so that the drip torches remain upright and locked in place during transport. Brackets should be mounted on the perimeter of the main chassis cage and be completely clear of the engine exhaust and passenger seats, and in a way that they do not catch on brush. Bottom of bracket must be capped and able to drain.

10.9. Bumpers:

a. Front step bumper: 2 x 5 x 3/16-inch steel tubing with permanent, non-slip surface using weld beads or raised rib expanded metal.

b. Rear step bumper/deck (Figure 2): 14 x 76.5-inch platform deck, with permanent non-slip surface using weld beads or raised rib expanded metal. Must have space for hose with electric reel

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(E1822-17-18 Hannay Electric Hose Reel or approved equivalent) and both electric and gas water pump. The rear bumper/deck shall have a removable hitch flip hinged step (Figure 3) to assist loading of cargo in rear deck. A step up for the upper deck must be installed with permanent non-slip surface using weld beads or raised rib expanded metal. Mud flaps will be installed to prevent dirt and mud from being kicked up onto equipment on rear deck (Figure 4). Mud flaps must be at least 29 inches tall.

c. A 2-inch hitch receiver shall be mounted below each (front and rear) for the placement of a “quick mount” winch.

10.10. Paint/color:

a. All steel shall be cleaned, sand blasted, and primed with iron rust inhibitor. The finish shall be flat light brown/tan or light green, determined by the Project Manager. A minimum of two (2) full coats of paint exterior automotive acrylic enamel is required. IMPORTANT: Bare metal inspection is required by FWC personnel prior to prime and paint.

b. A can of sprayable touch‑up paint must be provided with the buggy, along with a color‑code specification sheet.

10.11. Ball valves:

a. All plumbing ball valves must be low profile Two-position (Open/Close) valves. Valves must have enough clearance around to ensure that they can be replaced without obstruction.

11. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND INSTRUMENTATION

11.1. Battery: Two (2) 12-volt heavy duty, maintenance-free batteries (825 cold cranking amps, mounted in weather-proof boxes). Wired through a readily accessible marine grade battery switch to protect against accidental battery drain. Batteries and battery switch shall be mounted by the engine area on the right side of the buggy (Figure 5). Batteries shall have mounts and enclosures so that mud and water do not inundate them.

11.2. Permanent, fully sealed, marine grade quick charger with flush mounted charger inlet, and waterproof ignition-protected battery disconnect switch.

11.3. Alternator: A minimum of 80 amperes, or as required to operate buggy safely and efficiently.

11.4. Lights: All switches shall be weatherproof and mounted on dash within reach of driver. Each aspect listed from a.-d. below shall have its own switch. All lights shall have protective guards installed over the lenses.

a. Front: Two (2) long range LED or HID driving lights with high and low sealed beams. And two (2) fire (red and white) strobe lights.

b. Rear: One (1) red LED taillight and two (2) rear back up light (white or clear). And two (2) fire (red and white) strobe lights.

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c. Two (2) adjustable LED lightbars. One for each side of the buggy.

d. One (1) white or clear light and one (1) red light mounted under recessed dash and instrument panel to illuminate the front deck floor of buggy but does not shine direct light into passenger’s eyes. These lights must operate on a three-way switch (Red On, White On, Off).

e. Added deck lighting for safe entering and exiting of the buggy.

11.5. Wiring: Meets or exceeds marine standards with labeled fuse panel under the instrument panel or under the hood compartment. Wiring shall be bundled, protected, and secured to frame. Conduits shall be used in areas where wiring is exposed, or likely to be snagged by vegetation, or exposed to heat and water. Straight line fuse block recommended.

11.6. Instrumentation: Illuminated weatherproof gauges for oil pressure, water temperature, amperage, voltage, fuel level, RPM, and hour meter shall be mounted in dash. Hour meter shall be positioned on the left side of the console for easier reading from ground. The voltage gauge shall be digital and display battery voltage in numeric form.

11.7. 12 Volt outlets: One (1) heavy duty 12-volt outlet, and one (1) waterproof USB charger rated at 30 amps or higher, featuring one USB‑A port and one USB‑C port, shall be mounted under dash and instrument panel and be protected from the weather.

11.8. Shifter shall be on the column of the steering wheel.

12. ALTERNATE #1: WATER PUMP

12.1. Install self-priming, water pump as well as electric pump that are mounted on rear deck platform (Figure

2).

12.2. Install plumbing for both pumps. Install check valve between the pumps and the tank.

12.3. Electric pump must have at least 6 gallons per minute, minimum 80 PSI, 12 volt not 24 volt, hose outlets must be ½” or larger so that it can adapt to our ¾” hose. HYPRO Roller Spray Pump w/Motor: CWSE, 2,600 RPM Max RPM, 4 Rollers, Silver Cast, NPT, 3/4 in NPT or approved equivalent. A pressure switch shall be installed inline to automatically shut the pump off once the designated pressure is achieved. The electric pump shall be plumbed to the top deck in a configuration that provides a ready‑to‑use connection point.

12.4. Gas pump must be fire purpose built, Darley Davey 9HP Honda Firefighting Pump, Two Stage or approved equivalent and must come with one spare drain…