25IFB74 Hay Lease for Berry Springs Park and Preserve

Williamson County is seeking a lessee for a hay lease covering approximately 11.7 acres of surface land at Berry Springs Park and Preserve, located at 1801 County Road 152 in Georgetown, Texas. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) 25IFB74 is a competitive solicitation for agricultural land use, specifically targeting hay production on county-owned property. The lease term is set for one year, beginning October 1, 2025, and ending September 30, 2026, with potential for four additional one-year renewals. Bidders must submit a cash rent proposal per acre, with the county explicitly stating that only cash rent bids will be accepted. Evaluation criteria will include consideration of price, bidder experience, reputation, service quality, safety record, and financial capabilities. The bid submission deadline is September 4, 2025, with a public bid opening scheduled via a virtual Microsoft Teams meeting. Potential lessees must complete various required forms, including a Conflict of Interest Questionnaire, Bidder References, and a Bid Affidavit.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises or small businesses. Bidders must comply with several Texas state requirements, including an Anti-Boycott Statement certifying they do not boycott Israel, energy companies, or firearm entities. While specific award value is not explicitly stated, the lease will involve annual cash rent payments and a requirement for the lessee to provide up to twelve round bales of hay to the county each term. Insurance requirements are substantial, with lessees needing to maintain $1,000,000 in public liability coverage. The county reserves the right to reject any or all bids and select the most advantageous proposal. Potential lessees must demonstrate agricultural capabilities and provide references from previous similar contracts, with the ability to effectively manage and utilize the designated agricultural land within the park and preserve parameters.