BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is taking bids as it looks to buy two new rescue boats.

The department plans to buy two 18-to-20-foot, outboard jet-powered, center console boats.

They will award a contract to the best and/or lowest bidder.

Minority- and women-owned firms are encouraged to apply, but a contract will be awarded without regard to race, sex, ethnicity or nation of origin.

The bidding process opened on Wednesday, June 7th, and will be open through June 27th.