Produce-Sept 2012 Use-SCI Retreat

The Pennsylvania Department of General Services is seeking bids for a produce supply contract for the State Correctional Institution (SCI) Retreat located in Hunlock Creek, Luzerne County. The procurement involves four scheduled deliveries of fresh produce on August 31, September 10, September 17, and September 24, 2012. Specific produce items include bananas, apples, oranges, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, cucumbers, onions, peppers, tomatoes, cauliflower, lettuce, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and watermelons. The bid response deadline is August 20, 2012, at 1:30 pm, with the contract to be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Bidders must adhere to specific quality, packaging, and delivery requirements, including security clearance procedures for delivery drivers. Evaluation criteria include pricing per unit and total item basis, with vendors required to complete the Reciprocal Limitations Act form for bids exceeding $10,000.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must comply with Pennsylvania's Reciprocal Limitations Act, which provides preferences for in-state producers and requires disclosure of manufacturing locations. Vendors must also adhere to the Right to Know Law contract provisions, which mandate providing access to contract-related documents upon Commonwealth request. While no specific budget range is detailed, the contract covers produce supply for a state correctional institution with four scheduled deliveries. Additional compliance requirements include completing forms demonstrating state of manufacture for each item and providing information about business operations for resident bidder preference. The procurement process emphasizes transparency, competitive pricing, and adherence to state procurement regulations.