Exterior Ellection Ballot Boxes

The State of Maine issued RFQ 29A 200915-60 for exterior election ballot boxes on September 28, 2020, with quotations due the same day.

The procurement calls for fabrication of multiple ballot box configurations — large, small, and specialty designs including side-door and rain-hood variants — constructed of 0.06-inch stainless steel Series 300 (14-gauge) per ASME-Y14.5M-2009 geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standards. Design specifications include hinged access doors with gasket material for sealed connections, weather stripping at the bottom door to prevent moisture infiltration, locking stop mechanisms on the top door, and feet for elevation and stability. Small ballot boxes measure approximately 24 by 18 by 12 inches with dual-lock mechanisms, tamper-evident design, and internal compartments accommodating standard ballot sizes. Boxes must meet weather-resistance standards for Maine's climate, including corrosion resistance for coastal and high-moisture areas, and accommodate ballot capacity of approximately 500–1000 ballots depending on thickness. All units require clear English labeling and must support both early-voting and election-day operations.

The RFQ establishes unit-cost pricing terms submitted by vendors as part of their quotation response. Successful vendors will be responsible for manufacturing and delivering ballot boxes meeting all specified security and functional requirements to designated locations within Maine. Funding derives from the State of Maine's election administration budget. An amendment issued September 28, 2020 provided technical drawings and specifications prepared by Southern Maine Community College in South Portland. Additional specification documents included color photographs and design details to clarify exterior fabrication requirements for potential bidders.