Protests & Appeals

Note: These protest procedures apply only to procurements for goods and professional services. They do not apply to construction or road repair projects.

Filing a Protest

• Who may file: Any directly affected party aggrieved by the solicitation or award of a contract.
• How to file: Submit a written protest to the contracting department or the Purchasing Division (for goods), or directly to the Purchasing Agent, 400 Aviation Blvd., Ste. 100, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (for professional services).
• Deadline: Within 7 calendar days of the notice of intent to award. Late protests will not be considered.
• What to include:
  • Each ground for the protest, citing applicable laws, ordinances, or bid provisions
  • The remedy sought
  • For specification-related protests: supporting technical data, test results, or other documentation

Protest Resolution Process

• Informal Resolution: The Purchasing Agent or Department Head will contact the protesting party to discuss and clarify issues.
• Written Response: Within 14 calendar days, a written decision will be issued under the signature of the Sonoma Public Infrastructure Director. This is the final agency action.

Procurement Actions During Protest

Protests do not delay negotiations, purchase orders, or contract awards.

Remedies Prior to Award

If a violation of policy is found:

1. No fraud or bad faith:
   • The contract may be ratified if in the County’s best interest, or
   • The contract may be terminated.
2. Fraud or bad faith:
   • The contract or purchase order will be declared null and void.

Contractors should review all bid instructions carefully and submit timely, well-documented protests if necessary.