Portable/handheld raman spectroscopy analyzer

The City of Austin, Texas is requesting bids for three handheld Raman spectrometers with five-year warranties for the Tactical Investigation Division under IFB 8700 RBB1015, with bids due August 4, 2026. No M/WBE subcontracting goals have been assigned due to insufficient subcontracting opportunities and availability of certified firms; however, offerors intending to use subcontractors must submit a completed subcontracting plan and perform Good Faith Efforts to solicit M/WBE firms if selecting non-certified subcontractors. Optional local business preference is available to vendors with headquarters in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos Metropolitan Statistical Area (Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties). Optional small business preference is available to vendors holding recognized SBA-compliant small business certifications.

The specified equipment is the TruNarc Handheld Narcotics Analyzer by ThermoFisher Scientific, or a City-approved equivalent. Bidders must submit a Manufacturer Authorization Letter, proof of continuous business operations and registration, company profile and capability statement, customer references documenting successful delivery and support of portable handheld Raman spectroscopy analyzers, and complete warranty documentation covering the five-year period from shipment, including coverage details, limitations, and claim procedures.

Pricing must be all-inclusive, covering administrative fees, overhead, per diem, and FOB destination prepaid delivery to the Austin area within a specified number of days after order receipt via common carrier. No separate charges are permitted. The City reserves the right to award a single contract based on overall low cost or multiple awards based on individual line items or any combination of criteria deemed most advantageous. Actual purchase volumes are as-needed and specified by the City; estimated quantities are guidance only.

The contractor must maintain Workers' Compensation insurance consistent with Texas statutory benefits, Commercial General Liability with minimum $500,000 per occurrence, and Business Automobile Liability with minimum combined single limits of $500,000 per occurrence, all underwritten by companies with A.M. Best ratings of B+VII or better. A Certificate of Insurance is required before contract execution. Mandatory certifications include wage theft adjudication status, debarment, conflicts of interest, boycott prohibitions, and residency status. The contractor must identify a Contract Manager who may not be replaced without City approval.