Request for Qualifications- Water, Sewer, & Stormwater Distribution Contractors

The City of Sumter, South Carolina is issuing a Request for Qualifications RFQ #01 26/27 to prequalify experienced vendors for an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract to perform construction, repair, rehabilitation, and specialty services on water, sewer, and stormwater distribution infrastructure. The contract will commence on July 1, 2026, with an initial two-year term and a potential two-year renewal, operating on an as-needed basis without guaranteed work volume. Vendors must demonstrate strong organizational capacity, relevant experience with municipal utility systems, and the ability to respond promptly to emergencies and unplanned tasks. Evaluation is based on a merit-based trade-off model totaling 100 points, with priority given to qualifications, experience, capacity, safety record, performance history, and local business presence. Local vendors must have operated in Sumter County for at least 12 months, evidenced by a valid business license, physical address, or tax payment records, and must comply with South Carolina’s MBE certification requirements under Regulation 19-445.2160. Proposals must be submitted electronically by August 19, 2026, and are limited to 25 pages. Full disclosure of litigation, bankruptcy, prior contract failures, and conflicts of interest is mandatory, and failure to disclose may result in disqualification. Insurance policies must name the City as additional insured, and key personnel resumes are required as part of the submission. The City retains sole authority to accept or reject proposals and will conduct evaluations based on qualitative criteria without soliciting pricing at this stage. Performance will be limited to facilities within Sumter County, with contract administration handled by the Operations and Asset Manager and technical oversight provided by Public Works and Water & Sewer personnel.