Laboratory Testing Services Categories I and II

Sarasota County is requesting bids on laboratory testing services for water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste systems under IFB #262894RM, with bids due August 21, 2026 and a mandatory site visit timing posted in the OpenGov Procurement portal. The solicitation is divided into two categories with a maximum of two awards per category. A critical eligibility filter: bidders must hold Florida Department of Health Environmental Laboratory Certification Program (FDOH ELCP) certification for each analyte listed in their respective pricing table.

Category 1 encompasses wastewater permit compliance, drinking water permit compliance, water use permit compliance, and basic water quality testing; Category 2 addresses additional testing requirements at higher volumes. Category 1 bidders must demonstrate a minimum of 700 verifiable tests performed within twelve months preceding bid opening. Category 2 bidders must demonstrate a minimum of 6,000 tests and demonstrated ability to submit results in Florida DEP ADaPT electronic format. All trip charges, mileage, vehicle charges, travel time, and labor must be included in analyte test fees, with special sampling charged at an hourly rate. Sample pickup occurs Monday through Sunday at water reclamation facilities (Bee Ridge, Central County, and Venice Gardens) and Monday through Friday at potable water facilities (T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Water Treatment Plant), with locations subject to change at the County's discretion. The County also designates the Central County Solid Waste Disposal Complex as an as-needed service location.

The anticipated initial contract term is three years. The County awards to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder per category. Local and American business preferences do not apply due to grant funding requirements. Questions must be submitted through the OpenGov Procurement Q&A platform. Bidders must comply with all applicable Florida Administrative Code chapters, EPA regulations, and DEP reporting requirements and maintain specified Method Detection Limits throughout the contract term.