Diesel Fuel

Rockford Public School District No. 205 in Rock Island County, Illinois, is seeking to procure ultra-low sulfur premium grade diesel fuel for its school bus fleet through Invitation for Bid (IFB) 26-18. The district requires approximately 600,000 gallons of #2 diesel fuel and 100,000 gallons of #1 diesel fuel, with deliveries to be made to district fuel tanks in transport load quantities. Key procurement dates include a question deadline of January 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM CST, a final addendum issued by January 7, 2026, and sealed bid submissions due on January 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM CST. The contract will have an initial three-year term from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, with two optional one-year renewal periods. Evaluation criteria will include price, adherence to specifications, delivery performance, service quality, contractor past performance, and financial stability. Bidders must provide three references from similar organizations and submit comprehensive certification forms, including evidence of insurance coverage with a minimum of $1,000,000 per occurrence for commercial general liability.

The procurement includes specific set-aside and certification requirements for minority, women, and disabled-owned businesses, with offerors required to represent their business status across these categories. Bidders must demonstrate ownership of at least 51% by minority groups, women, or persons with severe disabilities to qualify for these designations. Compliance certifications are mandatory, including OFAC compliance, debarment certifications, and verification that no bid-rigging or rotating has occurred. The district will require random fuel testing to verify compliance with specifications and has established a pricing structure that includes a base fuel price plus a firm markup for transportation, delivery costs, and profit margin. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the district reserves the right to reject any or all bids and award based on the most responsible bidder. The total estimated contract value appears to be substantial, with approximately 700,000 gallons of diesel fuel to be purchased over the initial three-year contract period, plus potential renewal years.