DHS IFB ISVI - School Bus Leases LHF

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is seeking vendor proposals for leasing two school buses for the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired (ISVI), specifically located in Mercer County. The procurement involves one 71-passenger bus and one 66-passenger bus with a wheelchair lift, both requiring specific technical specifications including a 279" wheelbase, Cummins 6.7L diesel engine, air conditioning, GPS, and a three-camera system. The initial contract term will run from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, with options for two additional one-year renewals potentially extending the contract through June 30, 2028. Buses must meet extensive safety requirements and have a 25,000 annual mileage allowance, with vendors required to provide replacement buses within 24 hours of any breakdown and handle all maintenance and service needs. The bid submission deadline is April 4, 2025, and bids must be submitted electronically through the state's BidBuy electronic procurement system, with bids remaining firm for 90 days after opening.

The solicitation does not specify a small business set-aside, but bidders may be eligible for tax credits if they hire qualified veterans or certain ex-offenders. Vendors must complete comprehensive vendor disclosure forms, including the Illinois Procurement Gateway Active Registered Vendor Disclosure, which requires validation of business eligibility, potential conflicts of interest, and compliance with state procurement regulations. The procurement will be funded through locally held funds, with the total contract maximum to be finalized prior to execution. While no specific budget range is listed, vendors will be paid at a consistent rate for the initial and renewal terms. Successful bidders must comply with various state requirements, including providing subcontractor information if applicable, meeting statutory certifications, and potentially paying a $15 administrative fee. The state reserves the right to reject any or all bids and make award decisions in the best interest of the state, with evaluation based on responsiveness, responsibility, and lowest overall total price.