Navigational Aid Buoys

Sarasota County is conducting a Quick Quote (QQ) solicitation for 46 navigational aid buoys to be procured by the Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Department. The procurement specifically requires various types of buoys including regulatory can buoys (for hazard, idle speed, slow speed, danger, shoal, and swim areas), regulatory float collar buoys, and navigational can and nun buoys. All buoys must conform to United States Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission standards, be constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and feature specific reflective bands and lettering. Bidders are required to provide a single proof of each buoy type within two weeks of purchase order issuance, with the full buoy order to be completed within 45 days of proof approval. The solicitation was released on February 24, 2025, with questions due by March 5, 2025, and final responses required by March 7, 2025, at 2:30 pm. Evaluation will be based on the lowest total bid price, with the county reserving the right to purchase additional quantities at the quoted unit price for up to 30 days after award and potentially up to one year if the vendor agrees.

The procurement does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must complete a vendor questionnaire and provide a minimum of three references demonstrating experience with similar products. The total purchase threshold is $50,000, with the contract to be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the lowest total bid price. Vendors must submit responses electronically through the county's secure OpenGov Procurement portal and affirm compliance with state and local regulations, including employment eligibility verification and public records requirements. The buoys are subject to a five-year warranty against peeling, fading, cracking, or delaminating, and must be delivered to the Sarasota County Warehouse with specific delivery requirements. The procurement contact is Destiny Gonzalez from the Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Department, who will oversee the solicitation process and potential contract award.