This document outlines the General Instructions, Terms and Conditions for RFBs issued by the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority. It covers bidder responsibilities, bid preparation and submission, bid opening, review, and award processes. Key aspects include compliance with local ordinances, electronic submission requirements, bid bond requirements for public works projects over $25,000, and various preferences for state and county businesses. It also details contract terms, payment procedures, delivery and acceptance, quality of materials, insurance, bonds, and termination clauses. Bidders must submit mandatory forms like the unfair business practices disclosure form and pay equity documentation. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in bid rejection or contract termination.
The date and time for the receipt and opening of bids is specified in the advertisement for bids.
Payment terms are net thirty (30) days unless otherwise provided in the specifications. Discounts for early payment may be offered and accepted but will not be used as a factor in determining the lowest responsive bid. The discount term will be computed from the date of actual delivery of the items procured or receipt of invoice, whichever is later.
All goods and materials furnished by the contractor shall be free from defects and imperfections, and workmanship shall be in accord with the best industry standards and practices. Goods and materials shall be accompanied by the manufacturer's written warranty against defects in quality and craftsmanship and covered by the most favorable commercial warranties the contractor gives to any customer for such items. The contractor guarantees that the goods and services supplied meet the performance required in the specifications.
Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidders whose bids are lowest in total price and most advantageous to the water authority, considering specifications and other factors.
The water authority may reject a bid if the bidder does not have the ability, capacity, availability or skill to perform the contract, or does not have adequate financial resources, production or service facilities, personnel, service reputation or the experience to provide the goods and services required.
Any business or person that willfully violates any provision of the procurement ordinance contrary to the New Mexico Criminal Code may be referred to the appropriate authorities for felony or misdemeanor prosecution. Civil penalties may also apply.
The specifications may require bidders to conduct an onsite inspection. Failure by the bidder to become acquainted with the conditions affecting the work specified in the RFB shall not constitute relief from responsibility for estimating properly the difficulty or cost of successfully performing the work. Failure to conduct an onsite inspection may result in the rejection of a bid.
Any bidder who is aggrieved in connection with the RFB or the resulting award of a contract may protest to the Chief Procurement Officer within fifteen (15) calendar days after knowledge of the facts or occurrences giving rise to the protest.
The water authority may reject a bid if the bidder is debarred or suspended, has not had a satisfactory record of previous performance, does not have the ability or capacity to perform, has not provided sufficient information, or if the offered prices are higher than market prices.