Purchase, Installation, and Servicing of Enclosed Composting Vessel

Beaufort County, located in South Carolina, is seeking proposals for the Purchase, Installation, and Servicing of an Enclosed Composting Vessel as part of a USDA-funded pilot program. The procurement involves acquiring a comprehensive composting system capable of continuously processing organic waste from residential sources, schools, and local businesses, to be installed at 9 Benton Field Road in Bluffton. The composting vessel must be fully enclosed, feature automated mixing and aeration systems, include odor filtration, and comply with US Composting Council standards. Proposals will be evaluated using a points-based system across four equal categories: understanding (25 points), approach (25 points), pricing (25 points), and experience (25 points). Key submission requirements include detailed vendor licensing, insurance documentation, installation costs, on-site service package, staff training pricing, and manufacturing timelines. A non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for 2:00 pm EST on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, with final proposals due electronically through the Procurement Portal by 3:00 pm EST on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.

The solicitation does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. While the county historically disposes of 4,000 tons of yard waste annually, no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned. The project will require compliance with South Carolina Department of Environmental Services permitting regulations for a Type 2 compost facility, and vendors must adhere to non-discrimination and contractual obligations. The composting project is funded through a USDA grant, with the end product intended to create nutrient-rich material suitable for agricultural lands. Although a precise budget range is not specified, the comprehensive nature of the procurement suggests a significant investment in composting infrastructure. Vendors will need to demonstrate technical capability to provide a complete solution, including the composting vessel, installation services, ongoing maintenance, and potential staff training. The project represents a strategic waste management and sustainability initiative for Beaufort County, focusing on organic waste processing and environmental stewardship.