Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the Director of Finance and Management to contract for the option to purchase Automobiles for the City of Columbus. The term of the proposed option contract would be from the date of execution by the City up to and including August 31, 2009 or manufacturer's build-out date. The Purchasing Office opened formal bids on October 2, 2008.
The Purchasing Office advertised and solicited competitive bids in accordance with Section 329.06 (Solicitation No. SA003046). Eighteen (18) bids were solicited; Seven (7) bids were received. Bid specifications for six different types of automobiles included options for flexible fuel, compressed natural gas (CNG), and hybrid to meet the City's Environmental Code.
The recommendations for award include seven primary awards and one secondary award. The seven primary awards include a hybrid vehicle option (Chevrolet Malibu) and flexible fuel vehicle options (Chevrolet HHR, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Impala). The mid-size auto four (4) door was awarded to two (2) companies as primary award to allow agencies to select either a flexible fuel vehicle or gasoline powered vehicle which is a lower price. The one secondary award for the small auto four (4) door (Chevrolet Cobalt) was awarded because it was the second lowest responsive bid and the primary award (Ford Focus) may have a manufacturer build out date (cut-off date) occuring before the Chevrolet manufacturer build out date. Awarding in this manner gives the City a supply chain over a longer period of time.
No bids were received for small four door automobiles, mid size wagons, or mini passenger vans that operate on flexible fuel, or hybrid; and no bids were received for the compressed natural gas (CNG) option for any vehicle type.
The Purchasing Office is recommending award of contracts to the lowest, responsive, responsible and best bidders:
Item 1:
Primary Award: Small Auto Four (4) Door/Ford Focus S -Rica...
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