Bambi Bucket for MSP Field Support and Aviation

The Michigan State Police Field Support and Aviation division issued an Invitation to Bid (ITB) on February 12, 2018, for a one-time purchase of specialized aerial firefighting equipment. The procurement seeks one SEI International BBX2732 Bambi Bucket with 320 US gallon capacity and one BB/BBX Power Pack to support field operations and aviation capabilities. The equipment must be collapsible and constructed of lightweight material, weighing less than 150 pounds when empty and no more than 2,900 pounds when full, featuring a low power draw with a 3-wire system and an unlimited load control valve. Bidders may submit alternate products if supported by comprehensive product literature and technical documentation. The solicitation follows a structured timeline with bidder questions due by February 15, 2018 at 9:00 AM EST, answers posted by February 20, 2018, and proposals due by February 27, 2018 at 9:00 AM EST, with delivery required by April 2, 2018 to MSP Field Support and Aviation in Lansing, Michigan. The anticipated purchase order begin date is March 5, 2018. Evaluation criteria include the best combination of deliverables, specifications, delivery timeframes, and price, with the State reserving the right to request samples or inspect items before award and to verify that bids remain valid for at least 90 calendar days from the proposal due date.

Bidders must be either the manufacturer or a manufacturer-authorized distributor, with the State retaining the right to verify distributor authorization status, effectively restricting participation to qualified vendors with direct supply chain relationships. All bids must be submitted electronically through the Michigan SIGMA system and must be F.O.B. Destination with transportation charges prepaid. Bidders are required to provide standard manufacturer warranty information with their submission and must specify lead time for delivery in their proposals. The contract will be subject to standard Michigan State terms and conditions, including insurance requirements, background checks for personnel accessing State facilities, and comprehensive indemnification obligations. Award notification will be posted on the SIGMA system as a Notice of Recommendation, with protests due within three business days of posting. No specific budget range or award value was disclosed in the solicitation documents.