Finance lawnmower equipment

Western Carolina University is soliciting sealed bids under IFB 73-IFB-00781 to lease thirteen mowing units, with written questions due November 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET and bids due November 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. ET. The solicitation identifies no set-asides or preference programs.

The university requires four Turf Tiger 2 units with 72-inch decks, two Vride XL units with 52-inch decks, and seven Vride XL units with 61-inch decks, all with Vanguard 40 HP engines. Equipment must be new, current model-year units with standard safety features and manufacturer warranties. The awardee must provide full preventive maintenance under manufacturer schedules, repair services for all leased equipment, and priority repair during peak seasons. The awardee must also maintain access to an authorized repair facility within fifty miles of the Cullowhee, North Carolina campus and pick up and deliver equipment for warranty and major repairs at no additional cost. The university may purchase the equipment at lease end at a price and terms stated in the contractor's proposal.

The initial term is one year from final execution, with the state holding the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms on ninety days' written notice. Award goes to the responsive bid offering the lowest price that meets specifications. Award is contingent on a vendor financial stability certification, three customer references for similar services, completed criminal background checks for all personnel, and North Carolina Secretary of State registration before contract execution. Bids are submitted electronically through the Bonfire portal, and the public bid opening will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. The state will respond to written questions by November 11, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. ET.