ART - Purchasing Department Internal Procedures: Bid Protests 2002

The document is a regulation from the Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) Purchasing Department regarding bid protests. The purpose of the regulation is to provide a procedure for resolving protests lodged by bidders or prospective bidders who believe they have been aggrieved by the bid process. The regulation defines key terms such as PCSSD, bidder, offeror, and contractor. It states that individuals and businesses that desire to do business with PCSSD should be provided an equitable procedure to file a bid protest. The regulation outlines the process for filing a protest, including the requirement to submit it in writing within 14 calendar days after becoming aware of the facts giving rise to the grievance. The director or their designee has the authority to settle and resolve a protest before any legal action is taken. If the protest is not resolved, a written decision will be issued, stating the reasons for the action taken. The decision will be sent to the protestant and any other intervening party. The decision rendered under this regulation is final and conclusive. If a protest is filed, PCSSD cannot proceed with the solicitation or award of the contract until the Purchasing Director determines that a delay would not be necessary to protect the substantial interests of PCSSD. If a protest is sustained and the protesting bidder or offeror was denied the contract award, they may be entitled to reasonable costs incurred in connection with the solicitation, subject to approval by the PCSSD Board of Education. The costs must be proven to be connected with the solicitation and cannot include anticipated profit or attorney's fees.