2/18/1992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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_ M have a difficult situation. Mr. Prince related it would be very disappointing not to be awarded this job when he is the legitimate low bidder and qualified in every aspect of the bid documents. Chairman Eggert asked if Guettler met the criteria of completing three golf courses in three years. Commissioner Scurlock said they exceeded that criteria. Attorney Clem argued that Prince Contracting met the criteria and is qualified and he hoped the project would be awarded to the low bidder. Attorney Eugene O'Neill, representing Guettler & Sons, Inc., came before the Board and stated the Commissioners were obligated to make decisions which are in the best interest of Indian River County. He said arbitration is a process to make findings and the Commission can take that into consideration, but it is also reasonable for the Commission to believe what is heard from the individuals who were involved in the project. Mr. O'Neill listed the projects Guettler has completed satisfactorily and which staff considered in making their recommendation. He read the legal definition of "lowest bidder" and reminded the Commission that County ordinance states a contract should be awarded to the bidder who has submitted the bid that is in the overall best interest of the County. He also mentioned that Guettler is currently working on clearing the area for the golf course and would be in a position to continue and finish the project sooner than if another contractor were hired. Commissioner Wheeler recalled our experience in hiring contractors for several different projects and having problems on one project, but the other projects were done on time and satisfactorily. He felt that there is a bid process and as long as Prince Contracting was qualified, given the fact that his bid was lowest, he should be awarded the contract. The fact that he had problems on one project should not outweigh the difference in the bids. He said he would vote contrary to staff's recommendation and follow our bid process. Commissioner Scurlock pointed out that we are following our bid process because the process allows us the option to consider experience and investigate the bidder's past history. In this case, there were five people contacted and two of them said they would not hire Prince again, whereas on Guettler, nine people were - contacted and they all said they would rehire that company. Commissioner Wheeler clarified that he had not discussed this subject with anyone. He listened to staff, Mr. Prince and Attorney Clem in the morning prior to this meeting, and read the backup documents. 47 FEB _ BOOK