6640--Intent to Sole Source - Vibrating Blade Microtome Indianapolis VAMC

VHAPG Part 813.106 Simplified Acquisition Procedures: Soliciting from a Single Source

Attachment 1: Single Source Justification for SAP under the SAT

Last Updated: 02/01/22 Page 1 of 1

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Justification for Single Source Awards IAW FAR 13.106-1

For

Over Micro-Purchase Threshold but Not Exceeding the SAT ($250K)

Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C250-24-AP-3649

Contracting Activity: Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office (NCO) 10 located at 260 E University Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219-2356, in support of VISN 10, Richard L. Roudebush (RLR) VA Medical Center (VAMC), 1481 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-2803. 2237 #: 583-24-3-6026-0141

Brief Description of Supplies/ Services required and the intended use/Estimated Amount: This new request by the RLR VAMC Research Department is for the purchase of a brand name fully automated VT1200 S vibrating blade microtome for cutting high quality specimen samples of fresh and fixed tissue in Neuroscience.

Leica 1491200S001 - Leica VT1200 S Config - Quantity of 1

Leica 14041157009 Power Cord various NEMA5 15 Quantity of 1

The estimated cost is $28,439.59.

Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used: The RLR VAMC Research Department is seeking the brand name fully automated VT1200 vibrating blade microtome. Its design features automatic feeding, specimen retraction, built in software that remembers individual operational parameter settings for up to 8 different users, double edge razor injector that allows for sapphire blades, magnetic specimen holders, and the use of a cutting window to minimize sectioning time. It allows the user to achieve sections that retain viable cells on the section surface using an accessory called vibrocheck that is only compatible with the VT1200 and VT1200S microtome. The vertical deflection of the blade can be measured with the Vibrocheck measurement device and minimized with the innovative blade holder. These features are unique compared to other manufacturers vibratomes and will satisfy required sectioning demands for cutting fresh and fixed tissue needs of the highest quality to retain viable cells on the section surface.

The OEM, Leica Microsystems, Inc is a large business, retains proprietary license, and does not sell to the public. The OEM provided confirmation via email dated 05/13/2024 that Government Scientific Source, Inc (SB) is their only distributor for government related accounts.

Description of market research conducted and results or statement why it was not conducted: Market research queries were conducted using VetCert, GSA eLibrary, GSA Advantage, DSBS, VA NAC, and other resources. The results found that the OEM is a large business and identified a sole small business as their only authorized distributor for government related accounts. There is not a reasonable expectation of obtaining offers from two or more responsible small business concerns. The VA and SBA Rules of Two cannot be obtained. Based upon market research and comparison to the Government IGCE, there is a reasonable expectation that award can be made at a fair and reasonable price offering best value from Government Scientific Source, Inc.

Contracting Officer's Certification: Purchase is approved in accordance with FAR13.106-1(b). I certify that the foregoing justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

____________________________ 05/14/2024

Name: Dwight Petsche Date

Title: Contracting Officer