09-COSTARS Program Election to Participate Form (1).pdf

This is a COSTARS Program Election to Participate Form applicable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's supplemental solicitation for Bagged De-Icing Materials in 50-pound bags, which serves as a supplement to three existing contracts (IFB 6100060797, 6100061430, and 6100066274). The de-icing materials will be distributed to various state agencies for use as a snow and ice melting agent during winter weather events. The form establishes the framework for contractor participation in the COSTARS cooperative purchasing program, which allows registered COSTARS members to purchase awarded items and services at the same prices and discounts offered through the primary contract.

Contractors awarded under this contract must commit to offering their products to COSTARS members at identical pricing and contractual terms while paying an annual administrative fee to participate in the program. The administrative fee structure is tiered based on business classification: $166 annually for Department of General Services-verified Small Diverse Businesses or Small Veteran Business Enterprises; $500 for Department of General Services Self-Certified Small Businesses; and $1,500 for all other businesses. Contractors claiming small business status must provide documentation of active Small Business Contracting Program certification with their bid response. The administrative fee is due at the beginning of each contract year and upon each contract renewal date.