Request for Information: Foote-Jones Gearbox Replacement

Project Description: Notice of Intent to Designate Sole Brand:
This Request for Information (RFI) (Notice of Intent to Designate a Sole Brand) is to determine if the specified commodity or service is available from multiple providers, or if an alternate commodity or service is available that would meet the County’s needs. This is not a request for pricing or a purchase commitment.
The following commodity or service is thought to be available from only a sole brand and is the only commodity/services that meets the County’s needs:
• The Helical Speed Reducer Gearbox, manufactured by Foote-Jones, and its components are essential for the continuous 24/7 operation of Treatment Unit No. 2. This equipment plays a vital role in the water-softening process of the District 2A Water Treatment Plant (2A WTP). It is imperative that the equipment remains in working condition, and County requires identical units as a backup to ensure rapid replacement within 4-6 hours in the event of a failure, thus eliminating any interruptions or shutdowns at the plant
This RFI will remain posted until closing date and time.
Prospective Vendors are requested to provide information regarding their ability to provide the commodity or service described or written explanation or other documentation contesting the proposed RFI designation.
If you are capable of meeting or exceeding the County’s requirements for the specified commodity or service, respond to this RFI through the electronic bidding system. Vendor should upload any supporting information in the electronic bidding system as part of its response to assist the County in determining if commodity or service is comparable, is available from multiple suppliers, and meets the County’s needs. The Director of Purchasing shall have sole authority in deciding what is comparable.
The Director of Purchasing shall consider such submittals and notify all submitting vendors (thru the electronic bidding system) of the decision whether to designate as a Sole Source/Brand, which decision shall not be subject to objection, protest, or appeal.