2026 Children's Justice Symposium

The Utah Division of Purchasing, in collaboration with the Utah Children's Justice Center Program and the Attorney General's Office, is seeking to procure venue and event services for the 2026 Children's Justice Symposium through a sole source procurement process. The symposium is a specialized 3-day conference designed for professionals working with child abuse cases, expecting approximately 600 attendees from law enforcement, legal communities, child protective services, medical and mental health fields, and educational organizations. The procurement requires a comprehensive venue with specific infrastructure, including one large ballroom capable of hosting 600 people, at least six additional meeting rooms with capacities ranging from 50-300 seats, on-site lodging, free parking, and advanced audiovisual capabilities. The procurement unit has determined that Snowbird Resort is the only venue meeting all specialized requirements, including the ability to provide a confidential and networking-friendly environment. The notice of intent to award was posted on November 5, 2025, with responses due by November 12, 2025, under a unique procurement justification that argues no alternative venues in the Salt Lake Valley or Park City areas can accommodate the symposium's complex logistical needs.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent organizations. The total estimated contract value is $72,833.87, with detailed cost allocations including $11,070 for meeting space, $10,767.18 for audiovisual services, $45,999.54 for food, and $4,997.15 for lodging. All food and lodging must comply with Utah State Per Diem Rates, with specific meal provisions of two breakfasts at $20 per person and one lunch at $22 per person. The event requires 3 rooms the night before the conference, 365 rooms on the first night, and 352 rooms on the second night. Snowbird Resort will waive all resort and extra fees for conference organizers, presenters, and attendees due to their government status. The procurement includes an Anti-Boycott provision requiring vendors to certify they are not engaged in economic boycotts. Potential additional legislative funding may be added to the awarded contract if supplemental resources are provided by the legislature.