(1) Unless otherwise specifically provided in the bid specifications, reference to any goods, materials, supplies, or equipment by trade name, make, or catalog number shall be regarded as establishing a standard of quality and shall not be construed as limiting competition. All bids that offer a different trade name, make, or catalog number shall state whether the item offered is equal to the specification or an alternate and shall supply literature, if available, along with the bid. Bid specifications shall include a summary of this section. The County Official soliciting the bid shall determine whether the item is equal or alternate and such determination is final.

(2) In the event of discrepancies or omissions in the bid specifications, or ambiguity as to their meaning, the bidder shall immediately notify the County Official soliciting the bid who may issue written instructions and/or addenda and provide copies thereof to all those prospective bidders to whom specifications have been provided. Oral representations shall not be made and bidders shall not rely upon them except when made in a pre-bid conference that all prospective bidders may attend.

(3) Options to be exercised by the County to extend the term of a contract or increase the quantity of the goods, materials, supplies, equipment, or services to be purchased shall, if desired, be included in the specifications.