second-PostcardBHCV 09.pdf

This is a postcard announcement for the State of Maine's Division of Purchases soliciting bids for assisted listening equipment to support courtroom audio accessibility. The procurement encompasses twelve line items including infrared transmission systems, receiver body packs, rechargeable batteries, headset packages, neckloops for hearing aid compatibility, portable FM transmitter and receiver systems, microphones, carrying cases, and replacement components. The solicitation offers parallel vendor options from Williams and Listen manufacturers for most items, allowing bidders flexibility in selection while maintaining functional equivalency. Stationary infrared modulator/transmitter/emitter systems must include wall mounts, minimum 25-foot cables, dual transmitter-to-emitter connection cables, power cables (CRT 5), emitter coax cable (R658), and all necessary connectors and power infrastructure. Bids were due July 21, 2009, with submission required at the Division of Purchases office in Augusta, Maine prior to the closing deadline.

Bidders were required to submit separate unit prices for each line item using prescribed forms, with all transportation charges prepaid by the contractor unless otherwise specified. The State is exempt from federal and Maine state sales taxes, and bidders were instructed to quote accordingly. Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder considering best value to the State, with evaluation factors including quality, conformance to specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost. In cases of tie bids, preference is given to in-state bidders or those offering Maine-manufactured products and services. Vendors were required to provide pricing for additional emitters beyond those initially specified, with the decision regarding which courtrooms require sound emitters to be determined jointly by the owner and vendor. Electronic bid tabulations will be available for public inspection following contract award.