FURNISHING AND DELIVERY OF GRAVE MARKERS

The solicitation issued by the Middlesex County Department of Community Services, Office of Human Services, seeks bids for the furnishing and delivery of veteran grave markers to be delivered to the Middlesex County Fire Academy in Sayreville, New Jersey. The contract number is B-26-237, with an issuance date of December 10, 2025, and a submission deadline of December 19, 2025. This firm fixed-price contract requires the delivery of specified quantities of grave markers commemorating service in the U.S. military, including World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and other specified conflicts. The contract term begins on or about January 21, 2026, for a 12-month period, with an option for an additional 12-month extension. All deliveries are to be made F.O.B. destination, with transportation costs prepaid by the contractor. Bidders must comply with detailed specifications including design, preservation, marking, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Grave markers must be lacquered and feature raised, embossed text with precise dimensions for elements such as the “US” centered in a 5-point star and service period inscriptions. Submissions must be electronic via the county’s procurement portal, including completed vendor questionnaires, certificates, insurance documentation, and bid sheets with firm pricing entered directly on the provided forms—alternate bids or pricing formats are prohibited. The award will be based on the lowest total lump sum bid meeting all technical and administrative requirements, with no consideration of tradeoffs for technical merit. Mandatory certifications include equal employment opportunity compliance, affirmative action, corporate resolutions, business registration, and lobbying disclosures, along with restrictions prohibiting use of certain foreign telecommunications equipment. Security clearances and background checks are required for personnel engaged with correctional facilities. The contract mandates compliance with applicable federal statutes, including Executive Order 11246, HIPAA protections, and environmental procurement standards related to recovered materials. The contractor must carry specified insurance coverages naming the County as additional insured and indemnify the County against claims arising from contract performance. Payment will be on a monthly voucher basis, accompanied by activity summaries, though no specific payment office or account details are provided. Inspection and acceptance occur at the delivery destination, where the County reserves rights to reject nonconforming or damaged items. The comprehensive documentation package includes various certifications and forms to ensure bidder responsibility, diversity participation, and regulatory adherence.