2012 Unclaimed Property Ad List Insert

The State of Maine is requesting bids for newspaper advertising insertions to support its 2012 Unclaimed Property Ad campaign, with bids due February 16, 2012. The solicitation includes a recycled-content preference for paper and paper products: bids offering a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled material content and falling within 10% of the lowest compliant bid receive up to a 10% price preference, contingent on explicit disclosure of recycled content percentage in the response.

The scope comprises paid advertising placements in Maine newspapers to publish legal notices and public announcements notifying state residents of unclaimed funds and property held by the state. The attached newspaper list identifies publications designated to carry these insertions as part of the state's statutory obligation to notify citizens of available unclaimed property.

Electronic submission of quotes is required, closing at 2:00 p.m. local time on February 16. Bidders may propose alternate commodity offerings if accompanied by complete identification and descriptive literature. The state reserves the right to award on an item-by-item basis or as a group, whichever serves the state's best interest, and may increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering best value, with consideration given to quality, conformity to specifications, delivery dates, and overall economy. Unit prices govern over total prices in case of discrepancy. Bidders must specify definite delivery terms and any cash discounts of 20 days or longer. Transportation charges must be prepaid unless otherwise specified. The state is exempt from federal and Maine state sales taxes and expects quotes to exclude these taxes.

The contract includes an extension clause permitting the State Purchasing Director to extend the contract period with contractor consent, to a maximum total of three years. An overrun allowance not to exceed 3% of contract value is permitted. Past performance may be considered in award decisions.