James C Helfrich GPC Tractor

The State of Illinois is procuring a single low-profile utility tractor through the James C Helfrich Government Purchasing Cooperative (GPC) with a deadline of April 28, 2026. The solicitation requires a brand new, unused piece of equipment featuring a minimum 85 PTO horsepower turbocharged diesel engine compliant with current EPA exhaust standards, equipped with mechanical front wheel drive, a 16-speed forward and reverse transmission with power reverser, power steering with hydraulic wet disc brakes, dual mid-valve hydraulic systems, an independent 540 RPM power take-off, and a category 2 3-point hitch convertible to category 1. The tractor must include a loader attachment package consisting of a 70 to 85-inch general duty bucket with self-leveling function and quick attach capability, joystick controller, and one set of 48-inch pallet forks, along with mandatory equipment including agricultural-type tires, cold start grid heater or glow plugs, clearly labeled diesel and DEF tanks, lockable toolbox, slow-moving vehicle emblem, and full standard lighting. The operator's station must feature an open cab with OSHA-approved rollover protection, padded air suspension seat with three-inch seatbelts, and access from both sides with grab handles and steps, along with a complete instrumentation package including key-operated ignition, water and weather-resistant starter switch with neutral start safety feature, throttle, tachometer, fuel gauge, DEF gauge, electric direct-reading hour meter, engine coolant gauge or warning light, and air-filter restriction gauge or warning light. Bidders must be authorized wholesalers or retailers and shall provide manufacturer name, make, model number, complete specifications, standard manufacturer's warranty information, and two copies of operator and maintenance manuals upon delivery; the vendor is also responsible for installing attachments and providing training on equipment operation and maintenance. The solicitation allows submission of alternative products under "Brand Name or Equal" provisions provided bidders clearly identify items by brand name and model number, supply descriptive literature, and demonstrate that products meet all salient physical, functional, and performance characteristics, with the burden of proof resting on the bidder that the product is equal. Freight must be included FOB Destination to the specified ship-to location with all delivery costs reflected in pricing.

The State of Illinois Standard Terms and Conditions, Version 23.2, and Standard Illinois Certifications form apply to this procurement, establishing foundational contractual requirements and compliance obligations that vendors must acknowledge and maintain throughout the contract term. Vendors must comply with 33 distinct certification requirement areas including drug-free workplace standards, equal employment opportunity, political contribution restrictions, Illinois sales tax remittance, cybersecurity standards, and various statutory references to the Illinois Procurement Code and related state and federal laws, with false certifications subject to contract voidance, suspension, debarment, denial of payment, civil fines, and criminal penalties. The State requires general commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and workers' compensation insurance as required by law, and vendors must maintain comprehensive records for three years from final payment or contract completion, or five years if federal funds are utilized. The State reserves the right to conduct background checks at its expense, terminate contracts for cause with written notice or for convenience with thirty days' notice, and suspend or terminate contracts without penalty if appropriated funds prove insufficient. Specific award values or budget ranges are not provided in the posted solicitation materials, and the contract is governed by Illinois law with disputes resolved exclusively through the Illinois Court of Claims, with the State not waiving sovereign immunity.