9270-26-R-RFIN-00023

The University of Mississippi is issuing a Notice of Proposed Sole Source Purchase for two Frigid Units, Inc. LS-700 Living Stream Tanks paired with 1/3 HP Water Chiller Units, with objections due July 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time. This is a sole-source procurement — the University's justification rests on the equipment's unique combination of capabilities: temperature-controlled, unidirectional flowing water for manipulative experiments on freshwater invertebrates; free-standing, portable configuration within the existing research greenhouse at the Biological Field Station; and integrated chilled water pump with carbon filtering media that eliminate the need for ground excavation or additional drainage infrastructure.

The Department of Biology determined that no alternative products on the market satisfy the specific requirements. Frigid Units, Inc. is the sole manufacturer and distributor of Living Stream aquatic raceways with the rectangular tank configuration and integrated chiller specifications required. The manufacturer does not negotiate pricing.

The total expenditure is $21,961 for both units, activated carbon filtering media, and fiberglass support legs. The University conducted extensive research and consulted with colleagues to verify the absence of competing products.

Objections must be submitted in writing to Jeff Wells, Procurement Manager, at the University of Mississippi Procurement Services office, and must include the interested party's contact details, company information, and detailed objections with a statement of the party's capabilities to provide equivalent equipment. If the University determines upon review that alternative sources exist, the procurement will be converted to a competitive bidding process. If no alternatives are found, the University will appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board for approval.