Master Agreement - Uniform Pant - Vertx1000.

The State of Maine Department of Conservation/Forest Service is requesting bids on a master agreement for uniform pants (Fechheimer Vertx 1000 Series in O.D. Green) with bids due December 21, 2010. The specified commodity is Vertx 1000 with no substitutes permitted.

The scope covers approximately 173 pairs of pants annually at an estimated contract value of $5,880.27. The contract term runs through December 31, 2011, with two optional one-year renewals. All garments require thorough inspection before shipment, and the contractor must guarantee delivery of items in all sizes within ten working days of order receipt. Orders valued at $5,000 or less are transmitted via email; larger orders require Division of Purchases approval and encumbrance. Pricing must be submitted on a net, firm basis with transportation prepaid and FOB destination. The State accepts Procurement Card payment with no surcharges.

All vendors awarded contracts for apparel, footwear, or textiles are subject to a 1% Code of Conduct Anti-Sweatshop fee, calculated on the total contract amount and payable within 30 days of purchase order execution or quarterly for term contracts. Vendors must complete and submit a notarized Code of Conduct Affidavit certifying compliance with applicable wage, health, labor, environmental, and safety laws at all assembly locations, including freedom of association, building and fire codes, and non-discrimination requirements. The affidavit must be faxed to Sue Garcia at 207-287-6578 no later than the bid opening date.

Award goes to the lowest responsible bidder considering best value, with evaluation criteria including quality, conformity with specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost. In tied bids, preference is given to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine. The Division of Purchases reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive formalities, increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%, and cancel the contract with thirty days' written notice.