As Needed Tire, Brake, and Suspension Repair for Abilene State Supported Living Center

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) solicitation HHS0015863 for as-needed tire, brake, and suspension repair services for the Abilene State Supported Living Center's vehicle fleet. The procurement covers comprehensive automotive maintenance services, including tire rotations, balancing, wheel alignments, brake and suspension system repairs, and emergency towing services for approximately 90 vehicles ranging from passenger vans to trucks and specialized transport vehicles. Bidders must be located within 15 miles of the service location and capable of responding to emergency repairs within 4 hours of notification. Key requirements include providing specific tire brands like Firestone Transforce HT2 for work trucks and equivalent alternatives, along with all necessary labor, tools, transportation, equipment, materials, and supplies to perform services. The solicitation requires bidders to submit a detailed reference form with at least three verifiable references from similar contracts performed within the last five years, a one-page narrative describing company experience, and documentation demonstrating operational capacity. Critical dates include February 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM for question submissions, February 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM for question responses, and the final bid response deadline of February 24, 2025, at 10:30 AM. The initial contract term will begin upon award and expire on August 31, 2027, with HHSC retaining an option to extend for one additional year.

The solicitation includes comprehensive affirmations and certifications that vendors must complete, including requirements related to cybersecurity training, data security controls, and compliance with Texas state-specific provisions. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, the procurement includes various restrictions, such as limitations on foreign-owned companies involved with critical infrastructure and provisions related to energy and firearm industries. The historical spend for similar services was $15,193.00 for the period September 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024, though HHSC explicitly notes that no volume or compensation is guaranteed under the contract. Potential price adjustments may be permitted based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for contracts with renewals. Bidders must demonstrate financial capability, provide detailed company information including employee counts and geographic operational limits, and complete an extensive HHS Solicitation Affirmations form. The contract allows for potential price adjustments and requires vendors to disclose previous state employment relationships and certify compliance with various prohibited business practices.