Request for Bid (RFB 4088) for Softballs

The Madison Metropolitan School District in Wisconsin has issued Request for Bid (RFB 4088) for the procurement of softballs, seeking competitive bids from authorized Diamond dealers. The district requires two specific softball types: 144 dozen 12-inch diameter slow pitch softballs with .52 C.O.R., 300 compression rating, and yellow synthetic cover (Diamond 12SC52 model), and 24 dozen 11-inch diameter slow pitch softballs with matching specifications (Diamond 11SC52 model). The bid was released on September 20, 2021, with responses due by October 8, 2021, at 2:00 PM CST. Delivery of softballs is strictly controlled, with no acceptance prior to March 18, 2022, and complete delivery required by April 8, 2022, as a single lot shipment on an F.O.B. Madison basis. Evaluation criteria will focus on lowest unit price or net lot total price deemed in the district's best interest, with the potential for multiple awards. Each softball must be fresh stock, individually boxed or wrapped, and stamped with "MSCR" in at least half-inch height letters, with bulk shipments and blister packs explicitly prohibited.

The contract opportunity appears open to all qualified vendors, with no specific set-aside designations mentioned. Bidders must submit one original and two additional copies of documentation, including affirmative action compliance forms, debarment certifications, and employer information reports. Contractors are required to maintain a minimum of one million dollars in liability insurance and comply with Wisconsin safety requirements and OSHA standards. The Madison Metropolitan School District holds a tax-exempt status (number ES42341) and is exempt from Federal Excise Tax and State Sales Tax, which may impact pricing considerations. The district reserves significant discretion in the procurement process, including the right to accept or reject any or all bids without stating a reason, waive informalities, and adjust quantities to meet actual needs. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the procurement involves multiple dozen softballs, suggesting a moderate-value contract for athletic equipment. The contract term is specified as one year, with potential for supplier performance-based continuation.