Domestic Water Testing and Analysis Services

The State of California, specifically the Porterville Developmental Center (PDC), is seeking a domestic water testing and analysis services contractor through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) with solicitation number PR169035. The procurement requires a certified water testing laboratory to provide comprehensive water sample collection, testing, and reporting services over a two-year contract period from July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2018. Specific service requirements include weekly water sample pickups on Mondays between 8:00 a.m. and noon, with mandatory testing for Total Coliform and E-Coli (not to exceed 400 tests) using MPN (Colilert Quanti tray) or equivalent EPA-approved methods, and Nitrate testing (not to exceed 600 tests) using EPA 300.0 method. The contractor must provide all necessary sample bottles, Chain of Custody forms, and submit hard copy test results to both PDC and the California Department of Public Health. Bidder minimum qualifications include a minimum of three years of experience in domestic water testing, certification as a water testing laboratory, and possession of a Liability Insurance Certificate. The bid was due on May 9, 2016, at 1:00 p.m., with a bid opening at 1:30 p.m. and a proposed award date of May 16, 2016.

The State of California has waived the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Participation Program requirement for this contract, though Small Business preferences apply. The procurement allows for Small Business enterprises to potentially receive preference in the bidding process. While specific award values are not explicitly detailed in the documents, the contract is structured with per-test pricing for Nitrate Tests (600 tests) and Total Coliform & E-Coli Tests (400 tests). In the event of positive coliform detection, the contractor must be prepared to arrange repeat sampling within 24 hours, which could involve up to ten additional samples. All services will be paid in arrears according to the billing cycle, and the contract includes an option to extend for up to one year at the same rates. The successful vendor must ensure that all couriers are oriented to the facility and informed of agreement provisions, particularly those related to client rights. No incumbent vendor information was provided in the available documentation.