Term Contract for Automotive Batteries

Seminole County is seeking a term contract for automotive batteries through Invitation for Bid (IFB-604438-22/LNF) for its Public Works Department, Fleet Division. The procurement aims to secure a supplier for approximately 1,058 county vehicle assets, with requirements that batteries must be new, factory-direct products meeting or exceeding manufacturers' rated voltage and Cold Cranking Amperage (CCA). The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder based on 100% cost evaluation, with bidders required to provide comprehensive pricing for specific battery types and groups, along with a percentage discount off list price for additional items. Key deliverables include providing batteries on a consignment basis at three county locations, with services encompassing delivery, stocking, testing, and disposal of old or defective batteries. The initial contract term is three years, with potential for two successive one-year renewals, and the bid response deadline is October 26, 2022, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time, with electronic submissions required through the county's e-Procurement Portal.

The solicitation encourages participation from Minority/Women-owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs), though no strict set-aside requirements are explicitly stated. Bidders must comply with various legal and administrative requirements, including E-Verify, drug-free workplace standards, workers' compensation, and public records laws. The contract may involve potential FEMA funding considerations, which introduces additional federal compliance requirements related to disaster relief and emergency management. Contractors must be prepared to meet extensive documentation and audit requirements, including maintaining records for at least three years and potentially providing performance and payment bonds. While no specific budget range is detailed, the procurement covers battery needs for over 1,000 county assets, suggesting a significant potential contract value. Bidders must demonstrate ability to meet comprehensive technical specifications, provide warranty coverage, and maintain flexible delivery capabilities across multiple county locations.