Emergency notice - farm land leasing -dixon

The Illinois Department of Corrections has executed an emergency purchase authorization for farm leasing on Dixon Correctional Center grounds, dated September 30, 2026, following void of a prior farm lease contract by the Chief Procurement Officer due to Illinois Procurement Code violations. This is not a bidding opportunity.

The scope covers farming use of approximately 102.68 acres for the 2026 crop year to complete harvest operations, protect state property, and satisfy rent obligations. The vendor, Kevin Humphrey of Polo, Illinois, was selected based on his prior substantial investment in planting, tending, and cultivating the 2026 crops under the voided contract. IDOC determined that competitive procurement of alternative vendors was not practicable given Humphrey's existing crop inputs, estimated at approximately $56,474 for corn or $24,643 for soybeans based on University of Illinois Extension data.

The total estimated expenditure is $100,000 for the 2026 crop year, classified as other funding sources. The estimated contract award date was September 28, 2026. The emergency purchase was undertaken to prevent serious disruption to state services and protect state revenue. IDOC acknowledged that Business Enterprise Program participation and competitive solicitation requirements were not met under these emergency circumstances but committed to following standard procurement procedures for future farm leases. The authorization was executed by Sandy E. Robinson II, Sourcing Liaison.