As I recall the requiring activity (versus who actually purchased the boat) first wanted one particular boat and when he couldn't get that through the requirement later resurfaced as the vessel currently being discussed.

That individual tried to sole source the purchase but the Contracting Officer (CO) didn't accept that approach and made them come up with some specifications and after much pressure (e.g. the law enforcement card) ultimately convinced the CO to put the requirement out for quote amongst firms holding General Services Administration (GSA) contracts.

The procurement period was short and the number of firms holding GSA contracts able to supply vessels let alone one with the specs the requiring activity asserted it needed (bet they were taken right out of the manufacturer's catalog) resulted in only one offer - that being for the boat they wanted (why am I not surprised?).

I would suggest that the requiring activity (whoever generated the requirement) made false statements regarding their need and should be fired. The CO failed to stand tall and meet the requirements of the Competition in Contracting Act and should probably be demoted losing his/her Contracting Officer's warrant.

And don't forget that the requiring activity misrepresented the facts internally that allowed this purchase to avoid a vessel procurement review process even before the actual purchase action was begun.

These are all prior to the misuse/abuse of the vessel.

But, Jason, your statement that "you know these folks are making any and all job opportunities available only to their friends and family et cetera" is without substance and only goes to expose your ignorance and bias regarding civil service employment. The patronage system died along with President McKinley.

Salmo, your are right that this was screwed up big time but I disagree that there were any positive points for anyone given the public airing this has (rightfully) enjoyed.

Edit: More recollection: Not only did they push the "law enforcement" need they further claimed an exigency (e.g. "need it soonest") for the upcoming season which further pushed the CO to find a way to make it happen yet give the appearance of competition. Yet, in the final act the vessel did not actually get it into service for that season.......