X--Notice of Intent to Sole Source to MDU Resources I

The Department of Energy/Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) intends to negotiate on a single source basis with MDU Resource Group, Inc. in Bismarck, ND, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), Soliciting From a Single Source, for a secured hangar space for one (1) Bell 407 helicopter. WAPAs Aviation Department and Flight Operations requires secure long-term storage of helicopters during non-mission periods and maintenance near the WAPA Upper Great Plains (UGP) Regional office. WAPA requires infrequent / minimal airspace restrictions, immediate 24 hour aircraft access by WAPA personnel, a smooth hard surface, access to Jet Fuel-A fueling on the airport, nearby auto parking, supply locker storage, and a secure office area. Specific aircraft ground handling may be required and will be authorized by contractor personnel. The helicopter will be ground handled by a WAPA-owned self-propelled Heli-porter or Helipad by contractor tug. Minor maintenance and inspections on the Bell 407 will be required in the hangar location by WAPA authorized maintenance contracted personnel.

The Government intends to acquire commercial services using the provisions, clauses, and procedures prescribed in FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13.

Based on market research, the need for secure hangar space with unrestricted 24/7 access, emergency maintenance availability, and the proximity for emergency response by the WAPA pilot and Aerial Patrolman, WAPA has not identified any other sources that can provide the storage and access requirements to meet the needs of the agency.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 488119, and the size standard is $32.5M. The base period of performance is for one year, with two (2) one-year option periods, beginning February 1, 2023. Although MDU Resources is not listed under NAICS code 488119 for Other Airport Operations with a dollar threshold of $35.0 million per year would categorize them as a Large Business.

This notice of intent is not a competitive Request for Quotation (RFQ). No solicitation package will be publically issued. In accordance with FAR 5.207, all responsible sources may submit a bid, proposal, or quotation, which shall be considered by the agency. However, a determination by the Government whether to compete the proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received from all responsible sources will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement in the future.

If WAPA identifies no other capable sources by January 30, 2023, WAPA will issue a firm-fixed price purchase order on or about February 1, 2023 to MDU Resources, Inc. Interested parties may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement, in writing, no later than the response date. Written responses to this synopsis shall contain sufficient documentation to establish a bona fide capability to fulfill the requirement.

Inquiries will only be accepted via e-mail to Wes Aumiller at aumiller@wapa.gov by close of business January 30, 2023. Please reference the above solicitation number when responding to this notice No telephone requests will be honored.