(A) A request for quotations or bids shall not be drafted calling for designated supplies and equipment by specific brand or trade names, unless immediately followed by the words “or equal” so that bidders may furnish any equal supplies or equipment. A request to substitute equivalent supplies or equipment must be in writing and submitted by the time listed in the request for quotations or bids, or if no such time is written therein, with the quotation or bid submission. A request to substitute equivalent supplies or equipment must include all data necessary to demonstrate acceptability. The burden of proof as to the comparative quality and suitability of the alternative supplies or equipment shall be upon the bidder, and the bidder shall furnish, at his/her/its own expense, all information necessary or related thereto as required by the purchasing agent.
(B) Subsection (A) is not applicable if:
(1) The purchasing agent makes a written finding in the request for quotations or bids that particular supplies or equipment are designated by specific brand or trade names for any of the following purposes:
(a) In order that a field test or experiment may be made to determine the supplies’ or equipment’s suitability for future use.
(b) In order to match other supplies or equipment in use on a particular project, either completed or in the course of completion, or on a service already provided or being provided.
(c) In order to obtain necessary supplies or equipment that are only available from one source.
(d) In order to respond to an emergency declared by the city, the State, a State agency, a political subdivision of the State or the federal government.
(2) The individual or entity with the authority to award a purchase order or contract determines that the purchase of supplies or equipment of a particular brand or trade name are for a valid purpose.
(Ord. No. 2943)