Procurement Exemption for Status Automation at the Pierce County Jail

Pierce County is soliciting capability statements for a directly negotiated purchase of status automation services at the Pierce County Jail under a sole source and special facility procurement exemption, with submissions due August 7, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. The exemption is based on Status Automation's exclusive knowledge of the existing custom-built PLC ladder logic and HMI systems at the facility; Pierce County has determined that Status is the only entity capable of performing the work without operational interruption that could create safety risks.

The scope encompasses comprehensive reprogramming of customized PLC ladder logic and HMI systems, integration of new duress system devices into the current video and door lock control architecture, and formal testing and commissioning of all new hardware and software to ensure functional integration with the existing security platform. The minimum requirement for any vendor is demonstrated understanding of the current custom-built system.

The estimated cost for the initial 12-month contract term is $160,000. The contract term may extend to a maximum of five years with commensurate cost renegotiation for extensions. Questions are due July 31, 2026. Interested vendors must submit capability statements electronically through the OpenGov procurement portal. Pierce County will provide a letter explaining its evaluation decision to all submitting entities and will cancel the exemption and proceed with competitive procurement if a capable alternative vendor is identified. Contact Andrew Robson, Pierce County Finance and Enterprise Services Department, at (253) 798-7456 or andrew.robson@piercecountywa.gov.