Invitation for Bid-Environmental Database Review

Letcher County is soliciting bids for an environmental database review as part of its 2025 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Home Buyout Program. The county seeks to contract with an environmental firm or professional to complete comprehensive environmental database searches for approximately 125 residential properties. The selected contractor must conduct thorough searches using ASTM E1527 or E2247 Standards, reviewing federal, state, and local records for potential environmental concerns within specified search distances. Qualified bidders must be designated as an Environmental Professional and provide detailed reports documenting findings, data gaps, and potential recognized environmental conditions (RECs) for each property. The bid submission is due on October 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. EST, with bid opening and award scheduled for October 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. EST. Contractors must submit documentation including professional licensing, certifications, and errors and omissions professional liability insurance.

The procurement includes specific affirmative steps to promote participation by small and minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms. Contractors must take proactive measures such as placing qualified minority and small enterprises on solicitation lists, actively soliciting these enterprises, and dividing project requirements to maximize inclusive participation. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating Commercial General Liability coverage of $2 million aggregate/$1 million per occurrence, Comprehensive Automobile and Water Vehicle Liability coverage of $1 million per occurrence, and Worker's Compensation with employer's liability coverage of $1 million per occurrence. Bidders must also submit a Drug-Free Workplace Affidavit and Certification Regarding Lobbying, demonstrating compliance with federal and local regulations. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the environmental review for 125 properties suggests a substantial contract value. Contractors must also complete a Non-Collusion Declaration to ensure the integrity of the bidding process.