Notice of Intent to Award DNR-Hurricane Z-Turn Blower

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a Notice of Intent to Award for a procurement related to a Hurricane Z-Turn Blower, with the contract opportunity specifically associated with Gratiot County. The procurement was conducted through a competitive bidding process (RFP #190000000203) posted on SIGMA VSS on November 19, 2018, with bid submissions due on November 28, 2018, at 3:00 p.m. The solicitation was for a one-time purchase of a self-powered leaf blower intended for use at S. Higgins Lake State Park, with additional scope including a new roof installation at Waterloo Recreation Area. The evaluation committee, comprised of the Buyer and Project Managers with Casey Gwisdala serving as Project Manager, reviewed submitted bids using responsive and responsible bidder criteria. Three companies submitted bids: Fergusons Equipment Co. of Traverse City, Doug's Small Engine Co., and AIS Construction Equipment, with Fergusons Equipment Co. ultimately selected as the lowest bidder.

The procurement did not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The awarded contract was valued at $10,646.09 and was awarded to Fergusons Equipment Co., which was $350.97 lower than the next lowest bidder. Unsuccessful bidders were invited to schedule debriefing sessions with Solicitation Manager Patrick Avendt to understand the rationale behind the award decision. The procurement was localized to Michigan, with the vendor being a Michigan-based company. There were no indications of integration requirements with existing infrastructure or technology, and the procurement appeared to be a straightforward equipment purchase for specific DNR park maintenance needs.