Provision of animal control services

The Township of Toms River in Ocean County, New Jersey, is seeking a comprehensive animal control services provider through a competitive contracting process under N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1. The procurement solicits an experienced contractor to deliver extensive animal control services, including impoundment of domestic animals, capture and management of sick or injured wildlife, rabies testing, wildlife carcass removal from township property, and animal cruelty investigations. The contract duration is twenty-four consecutive months, with an anticipated award date of February 12, 2025. Proposals are due by January 14, 2025, at 10:00 am, and must be submitted electronically through the township's OpenGov Bid Portal. The evaluation committee will assess proposals based on three primary criteria: technical demonstration of scope of work (30%), management experience and personnel qualifications (50%), and cost evaluation (20%). Bidders must demonstrate capability to provide a wide range of animal control services with documented expertise, appropriate staffing, and comprehensive operational protocols.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. However, bidders are required to submit multiple mandatory documents, including an affirmative action documentation, which suggests a commitment to equal employment opportunity. Bidders must provide a price certification, corporate resolution, and proof of insurance, indicating robust administrative and financial requirements. While no specific budget range is detailed, the bid table includes line items with per-animal and per-hour pricing, suggesting flexibility in cost structures. The township reserves the right to reject any or all bids and will award the contract to the most advantageous bidder, considering technical specifications, management experience, and cost. Compliance with equal employment opportunity regulations, prevailing wage laws, and various state and federal contracting guidelines will be essential for successful bidders. Prospective contractors should be prepared to demonstrate comprehensive capabilities in animal control services with a strong emphasis on professional management and operational effectiveness.