1-26-204JH - Legislative Representation Services.pdf

YOUR PARTNER FOR

SOLID WASTE SOLUTIONS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

FOR

LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION SERVICES

RFP NO.: 26-204/JH

SEPTEMBER 2025

SOLID WASTE AUTHORITY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY

7501 NORTH JOG ROAD

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA 33412

(561) 640-4000

- i -

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. Background

1.2. Pre-Proposal Conference

1.3. Evaluation Process

1.4. Procurement Schedule

1.5. Proposal Submission and Withdrawal

1.6. Communication Protocol

1.7. Addenda

1.8. Rights of the Authority

1.9. Proposal Preparation Costs

1.10. Interpretations

1.11. Non-Collusion Affidavit

1.12. Public Entity Crimes

1.13. Public Records Act / Information Disclosure to Third Parties

1.14. Insurance Required

1.15. Cone of Silence

1.16. Agreements with other Governmental Entities

1.17. Scrutinized Companies

1.18. Inspector General

1.19. Commercial Non-Discrimination Policy

1.20. Third Party Beneficiary Disclaimer

1.21. E-Verify – Employment Eligibility

1.22. Equal Business Opportunity Program

1.23 Prohibition Against Considering Social, Political or Ideological Interest in Government Contracting

1.24 Non-Governmental Entity Human Trafficking

SECTION 2 - SCOPE OF WORK

2.1. Introduction

2.2. Work Objective

2.3 Scope of Work

2.4 Work Products Required

2.5 Performance Schedule

SECTION 3 - PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.1. Proposal Submission Requirements and Format

3.2. Content

SECTION 4 - PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND AWARD

4.1. General

4.2. Evaluation Guidelines

4.3 Evaluation Method

4.4 Award

4.5 Protest Procedures

- ii -

PROPOSAL FORMS

1. Transmittal Letter

2. Price Proposal

3. SBE Commitment Form

4. SBE Subcontractor Supplier Participation Schedule

5. Statement of Intent to Perform as an SBE Subcontractor/Supplier

6. Subcontracting Goal – Waiver Request

7. Good Faith Effort Documentation Form

8. Certification of Business Location

9. PROPOSER’S Qualification Statement

10. Vendor Acknowledgement Form

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment A - Sample Agreement Attachment B – Procurement Schedule

- 1 -

GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. BACKGROUND:

A. The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (“AUTHORITY”) was established by the Florida State Legislature as a Dependent Special District under the Palm Beach County Solid Waste Act, Chapter 2001-

331. The AUTHORITY is governed by the seven (7) elected County Commissioners of Palm Beach County, Florida, sitting as the Governing Board of the AUTHORITY. The Governing Board members are elected for terms as determined in the Solid Waste Act. It is important to note that the AUTHORITY is an entirely separate and legally distinct entity from Palm Beach County which is a political subdivision of the State of Florida.

B. The AUTHORITY is the governmental agency responsible for providing an economical and environmentally conscious integrated Solid Waste Management System for Palm Beach County, Florida. With approximately 400 employees, the AUTHORITY provides solid waste disposal and recycling services and programs to the County’s 1.5 million residents and businesses. The AUTHORITY also provides solid waste and recycling collection services to the residents and businesses in unincorporated Palm Beach County through private haulers under exclusive franchise agreements.

C. The AUTHORITY has built an award-winning integrated system of facilities that combines recycling, renewable energy and landfilling to effectively manage the county’s waste. The AUTHORITY’s system includes two renewable energy facilities, landfills, a recovered materials processing facility, a biosolids processing facility, seven (7) home chemical collection facilities and a network of six (6) transfer stations.

1.2. PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE:

A. A Non-mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on the date and time outlined in the Procurement Schedule at 7501 North Jog Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33412, open to all interested parties at which time the AUTHORITY staff shall be present to answer questions and explain the intent of the RFP documents.

B. Any conclusions reached at this conference which amend the RFP documents, will be issued in the form of a written Addendum(s). The AUTHORITY will not be bound by or responsible for any explanation or interpretation of the RFP documents other than those given in written Addenda. In no event shall PROPOSERS rely on any oral statement by the AUTHORITY, its staff, agents, advisors, or consultants.

There are no exceptions.

1.3. EVALUATION PROCESS:

The evaluation process will be conducted in accordance with the methods and guidelines described in the Proposal Evaluation and Award Section of this RFP.

1.4. PROCUREMENT SCHEDULE:

A summary schedule of the major activities associated with the AUTHORITY’S procurement process for this Project is presented in the Procurement Schedule (See Attachments). The AUTHORITY, at its sole and unfettered discretion, may modify the schedule as it deems appropriate. The AUTHORITY will notify the PROPOSER of any changes associated with submittal dates by written Addenda.

- 2 -

1.5. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION and WITHDRAWAL:

A. The AUTHORITY uses Bonfire, a 100% digital method of accessing and responding to solicitations (Bonfire). Therefore, PROPOSERS must submit their proposal via Bonfire. The AUTHORITY must receive responses as indicated and on the date and time established in the Procurement Schedule of this RFP.

B. The AUTHORITY cautions those submitting Proposals to ensure the accuracy of the document uploads to Bonfire.

C. The PROPOSER may withdraw their Proposal by notifying the AUTHORITY’S Director of Purchasing Services in writing at jhart@swa.org any time prior to the time set for the Proposals receipt deadline.

Proposals, once opened, become the property of the AUTHORITY and will not be returned to the PROPOSERS, except in accordance with Florida Law.

1.6. COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL:

All questions and communications concerning this procurement process must be directed to Jodi S. Hart, CPPO, MBA, Juris Master. All requests for clarifications or additional information must be submitted in writing via electronic mail to jhart@swa.org or Bonfire. All questions shall be submitted no later than the date specified in Procurement Schedule of this RFP. The AUTHORITY will record its responses to questions, if any, and address them in the form of a written Addendum(s) to this RFP.

1.7. ADDENDA:

A. Should revisions to the RFP become necessary, the AUTHORITY will issue written Addenda. All Addenda must be acknowledged. This Acknowledgement must be included in the Proposal Form – Transmittal Letter and the Vendor Acknowledgement Form. PROPOSER’S submittal may be rejected as non-responsive if PROPOSER has failed to submit its Proposal without Addenda Acknowledgement. The AUTHORITY will issue all Addenda through Bonfire.

B. All PROPOSERS should contact the AUTHORITY no more than five (5) calendar days before the due date for submitting Proposals to ascertain whether any Addenda have been issued. Failure of the PROPOSER to make this inquiry could result in its Proposal being non-responsive in the event Addenda were issued and not acknowledged by the PROPOSER in their submittal.

C. No Addenda will be issued within five (5) calendar days of the due date for receipt of Proposals except an

Addendum withdrawing the RFP or one that includes postponement of the date for receipt of Proposals.

1.8. RIGHTS OF THE AUTHORITY:

This RFP constitutes an invitation for submission of Proposals to the AUTHORITY. This RFP does not obligate the AUTHORITY to procure or contract for any of the scopes of services set forth in this RFP. The AUTHORITY reserves and holds at its sole and unfettered discretion, various rights and options under Florida law, including without limitation, the following:

• To prepare and issue addenda to the RFP that may expand, restrict, or cancel any portion or all work described in the RFP without obligation to commence a new procurement process or issue a modified or amended RFP;

• To receive questions from potential PROPOSERS and to provide such answers in writing as it deems appropriate;

mailto:jhart@swa.org mailto:jhart@swa.org

- 3 -

• To waive any informalities, technicalities or irregularities in the Proposals submitted;

• To reject any and all Proposal submissions;

• To change the date for receipt of Proposals or any deadlines and dates specified in the RFP;

• To change the procurement and/or selection process prior to receipt of Proposals;

• To conduct investigations with respect to the information provided by each PROPOSER and to request additional information (either in writing or in presentations and interviews) to support such PROPOSER’S responses and submittals;

• To visit facilities referenced in the PROPOSER’S submittal at any time or times during the procurement process;

• To seek clarification of Proposals from the PROPOSERS either in writing or in presentations and interviews, and;

• To cancel the RFP with or without the substitution of another RFP.

1.9. PROPOSAL PREPARATION COSTS:

The AUTHORITY accepts no liability for costs and expenses incurred by the PROPOSER in preparation and submission of Proposals and responses to clarifications from the AUTHORITY, potential site visits, interviews, negotiations, future RFP or any other work performed in connection with the Proposal. Each PROPOSER that enters into the procurement process shall prepare the required materials and submittals at its own expense and with the express understanding that they cannot make any claims whatsoever for reimbursement from the AUTHORITY for the costs and expenses associated with the process. PROPOSER should prepare their submittal providing a straightforward and concise description of the PROPOSER’S ability to meet the requirements of the RFP. Unnecessarily elaborate brochures, art work, expensive paper, bindings, visual and other presentation materials, beyond that sufficient to present a complete and effective response to this RFP is not desired.

1.10. INTERPRETATIONS:

A. The AUTHORITY will not be bound by or responsible for any explanation or interpretation of the RFP documents other than those given in written Addenda. In no event shall PROPOSERS rely on any oral statement by the AUTHORITY, its staff, agents, advisors, or consultants.

B. Any PROPOSER that submits in its Proposal to the AUTHORITY any information which is determined to be substantially inaccurate, misleading, exaggerated, or incorrect, may be disqualified from consideration.

1.11. NON – COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT:

The PROPOSER is required to submit the Vendor Acknowledgement Form attesting to the Non-Collusion Affidavit stipulating Agreement to the following: “PROPOSER certifies that its Proposal is made without previous understanding, Agreement, or connection with any person, firm, or corporation making a Proposal for the same item(s) and is in all respects fair, without outside control, collusion, fraud, or otherwise illegal action”.

1.12. PUBLIC ENTITY CRIMES:

Pursuant to Section 287.133(2)(a), as amended: A person or affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a public entity crime may not submit a bid, proposal, or reply on a contract to provide any goods or services to a public entity, may not submit a bid, proposal or reply on a contract with

- 4 -a public entity for the construction or repair of a public building or public work, may not submit bids, proposals or replies on leases of real property to a public entity, may not be awarded or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under a contract with any public entity, and may not transact business with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017 for CATEGORY TWO for a period of thirty-six (36) months following the date of being placed on the convicted vendor list.

1.13. PUBLIC RECORDS ACT/INFORMATION DISCLOSURE TO THIRD PARTIES:

A. Sealed bids, proposals, SOQs, or replies received by the AUTHORITY pursuant to a competitive solicitation are exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s.24(a), Article I of the State Constitution until such time as the AUTHORITY provides notice of an intended decision or until thirty (30) days after opening the bids, proposals, SOQs, or final replies, whichever is earlier. As such, the AUTHORITY shall not in any way be liable or responsible for the proper disclosure or result of the proper disclosure of any submissions or portions thereof submitted in response to the RFP, made in accordance with applicable law.

B. The law provides for certain exemptions from disclosure. If the PROPOSER believes that some information contained in their Proposal is exempt or exempt and confidential from disclosure, the PROPOSER is instructed to label such information as specifying the exact section of the public records, or other Florida or Federal law that justifies nondisclosure, and request in writing the AUTHORITY keep such information confidential and free from disclosure. The AUTHORITY reserves the right to make any final determination of the applicability of the public records or other Florida or Federal law. Prior to releasing any information, the AUTHORITY will inform the PROPOSER and allow the PROPOSER to seek an injunction prohibiting the AUTHORITY from releasing the information. Each PROPOSER agrees that the AUTHORITY may reveal any confidential and exempt materials to designated AUTHORITY staff and the Board members involved in the evaluation process.

Furthermore, each PROPOSER agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the AUTHORITY and each of their officers, employees, and agents from all costs, damages, and expenses incurred in connection with refusing to disclose any material, which the PROPOSER has designated as confidential and exempt.

C. The portions of any meetings where PROPOSER(S) is making an oral presentation, is/are answering questions, where negotiations take place, or AUTHORITY meetings to discuss negotiation strategy are also exempt from public access in accordance with Sections 286.0113(2)(b)1, Florida Statutes, as may be amended.

1.14. INSURANCE REQUIRED:

The PROPOSER(S) shall at its sole expense, obtain and maintain insurance reflecting the minimum amounts and conditions specified in the Insurance Requirements Checklist. (see Documents section of Bonfire) If the PROPOSER(S) is a governmental entity or a self-insured organization, different insurance requirements may apply. Misrepresentation of any material fact, whether intentional or not, regarding the PROPOSER’(S) insurance coverage, policies or capabilities may be grounds for rejection of the proposal(s) and rescission of any ensuing agreement(s). Certificate(s) of Insurance are required indicating that coverage is in full force and effect and include the following language: “Should any of the policies be cancelled before the expiration date thereof, notice will be delivered in accordance with the policy provisions.” Notice shall not be less than (30) days for any cancellation, non-renewal or material change to the insurance coverages and not less than ten

(10) days for non-payment of premium. The requirements contained herein, as well as AUTHORITY’S review or acceptance of insurance maintained by PROPOSER are not intended to and shall not in any manner limit or qualify the liabilities and obligations assumed by PROPOSER under this Agreement. In the event that sub-contractors used by the PROPOSER do not have insurance, or do not meet the insurance limits, PROPOSER shall indemnify and hold harmless the AUTHORITY for any claim in excess of the sub-contractor’s insurance

- 5 -coverage, to the extent that insurance meeting the limits would have afforded coverage to the AUTHORITY, as indicated in the Insurance Checklist.

1.15. CONE OF SILENCE:

1.15.1 Cone of silence means a prohibition on any communication, written or oral, regarding a particular request for proposal, request for qualification, bid, or any other competitive solicitation between:

(a) Any person, recognized legal entity, or either of their respective representative(s) seeking an award from such competitive solicitation; and

(b) any person who is a member of a selection or evaluation committee or panel whose purpose is to make selections, recommendations or evaluations in connection with a competitive selection process; and

(c) any employee of the department from which the contract solicitation originated and for whose primary purpose it will serve, any employee that is a Chief of the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County regardless of the originating department; and

(d) Notwithstanding the above, any person, legal entity, or their respective representative(s), may contact any member(s) of the Authority’s Governing Board, the Executive Director, Purchasing Director or Procurement Manager, however, any such communication shall only be by written correspondence, and in all cases the Purchasing Director shall be copied. Any oral communications to any of these persons(s) listed in this subsection regarding a particular competitive solicitation is/are strictly prohibited.

1.15.2 For the purposes of this section, a person or legal entity’s representative shall include any person or group of persons acting on behalf of that person or legal entity, including but not limited to an employee, partner, officer, director, consultant, lobbyist, or any actual or potential subcontractor or consultant of the person or legal entity.

1.15.3 The Cone of Silence shall be in effect as of the deadline to submit the proposal, bid, or other response to a competitive solicitation. Each request for proposal, request for qualification, bid, or any other competitive solicitation shall provide notice of the Cone of Silence requirements and refer to this policy.

1.15.4 The Cone of Silence shall remain in effect for all person(s), legal entity, or their respective representative(s) submitting a response to a competitive solicitation until such time as the provisions of subsection 1.15.7 are satisfied, even if the person withdraws his/her submittal from the competitive process or is otherwise eliminated from consideration consistent with the procedures of the competitive process.

1.15.5 The provisions of this policy shall not apply to oral communications at any proceeding, including pre-bid conferences, oral presentations before selection committees, contract negotiations during any meeting, presentations made to the Governing Board, and protest hearings. Further, the Cone of Silence shall not apply to contract negotiations between any employee and the intended awardees, or any dispute resolution process following the filing of a protest between the person filing the protest and any employee.

1.15.6 The Cone of Silence shall not apply to any purchase made in an amount less than the competitive bid threshold set forth in the Authority Purchasing manual.

1.15.7 The Cone of Silence shall terminate at the time the Board, or Authority staff, if authorized to act on behalf of the Board, awards or approves a contract, rejects all bids or responses, or otherwise takes

- 6 -action which ends the solicitation process.

1.15.8 The Board, by means of action taken at any properly noticed Governing Board meeting, may invoke the Cone of Silence earlier than the times specified in this section, for any procurement.

1.15.9 Any and all questions regarding the individuals who may or may not be covered under the Cone of

Silence should be directed to the Purchasing Director or designee.

1.16. AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES:

All PROPOSERS submitting a response to this RFP agree that such response also constitutes a response to all State and local government agencies of the State of Florida under the same terms and conditions, for the same prices and for the same effective period as specified in this RFP, should the successful PROPOSER deem it in the best interest of their business to do so. The Agreement(s) resulting from this RFP in no way restricts or interferes with any State or local government agencies of the State of Florida from re-solicitation for any or all items specified in this RFP.

1.17. SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES:

A. When Contract value is greater than one million dollars ($1,000,000): As provided in F.S. 287.135, by entering into this Contract or performing any work in furtherance hereof, the CONTRACTOR certifies that it, its affiliates, suppliers, subcontractors and consultants who will perform hereunder, have not been placed on the Scrutinized Companies With Activities in Sudan List or Scrutinized Companies With Activities in The Iran Petroleum Energy Sector List created pursuant to F.S. 215.473, or is engaged in business operations in Cuba or Syria.

If the AUTHORITY determines, using credible information available to the public, that a false certification has been submitted by CONTRACTOR, this Contract may be terminated and a civil penalty equal to the greater of $2 million or twice the amount of this Contract shall be imposed, pursuant to F.S. 287.135. Said certification must also be requested at the time of Contract renewal.

B. As provided in F.S. 287.135, by entering into this Contract or performing any work in furtherance hereof, the

CONTRACTOR certifies that it, its affiliates, suppliers, subcontractors and consultants who will perform hereunder, have not been placed on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List, or is engaged in a boycott of Israel, pursuant to F.S. 215.4725.

If the AUTHORITY determines, using credible information available to the public, that a false certification has been submitted by CONTRACTOR, this Contract may be terminated and, if said false certification stated that CONTRACTOR was not engaged in a boycott of Israel, a civil penalty equal to the greater of $2 million or twice the amount of this Contract shall be imposed, pursuant to F.S. 287.135. Said certification must also be requested at the time of Contract renewal.

1.18. INSPECTOR GENERAL:

Palm Beach County has established the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), Ordinance No. 2009-049 which is authorized and empowered to review past, present and proposed county contracts, transactions, accounts and records. The AUTHORITY has entered into an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for Inspector General Services.

This Agreement provides for the Inspector General to provide services to the AUTHORITY in accordance with the authority, functions and powers set out in the Palm Beach County Office of Inspector General Ordinance.

All parties doing business with the AUTHORITY and receiving AUTHORITY funds shall fully cooperate with the Inspector General including providing access to records relating to this Agreement. The Inspector General has the power to subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, require the production of records, and audit,

- 7 -investigate, monitor, and inspect the activities of the CONSULTANT, its officers, agents, employees, and lobbyists in order to ensure compliance with contract specifications and detect corruption and fraud. Failure to cooperate with the Inspector General or interference with or impeding any investigation shall be in violation of Ordinance 2009-049, and punished pursuant to Section 125.69, Florida Statutes, in the same manner as a second-degree misdemeanor.

1.19. COMMERCIAL NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY:

A. Statement of Policy

It is the policy of the AUTHORITY not to enter into a contract or to be engaged in a business relationship with any business entity that has discriminated in the solicitation, selection, hiring or commercial treatment of vendors, suppliers, subcontractors or commercial customers on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, disability, or genetic information, or on the basis of any otherwise unlawful use of characteristics regarding the vendor's, supplier's or commercial customer's employees or owners; provided that nothing in this policy shall be construed to prohibit or limit otherwise lawful efforts to remedy the effects of discrimination that have occurred or are occurring in the relevant marketplace for Palm Beach County.

B. Policy Implementation

The EBO Office shall implement this policy by periodically conducting outreach and by distributing educational materials to the AUTHORITY’s contracting and vendor community and related trade associations to advise such contractors, vendors and prospective respondents of this policy and the procedures to be followed in submitting complaints alleging violations of this policy. In addition, the Executive Director, the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, the Director of Purchasing, and the Office of the General Counsel shall ensure that the following commercial nondiscrimination clause language is set forth in, and incorporated into, all the AUTHORITY contracts that result from formal solicitations:

Every contract and subcontract shall contain a nondiscrimination clause that reads as follows:

"As a condition of entering into this agreement, the company represents and warrants that it will comply with the AUTHORITY’s Commercial Nondiscrimination Policy as described under Section 6.3 of the AUTHORITY’s Purchasing Manual. As part of such compliance, the company shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, disability, or genetic information in the solicitation, selection, hiring or commercial treatment of subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, or commercial customers, nor shall the company retaliate against any person for reporting instances of such discrimination. The company shall provide equal opportunity for subcontractors, vendors and suppliers to participate in all of its public sector and private sector subcontracting and supply opportunities, provided that nothing contained in this clause shall prohibit or limit otherwise lawful efforts to remedy the effects of marketplace discrimination that have occurred or are occurring in the AUTHORITY’s relevant marketplace in Palm Beach County. The company understands and agrees that a material violation of this clause shall be considered a material breach of this agreement and may result in termination of this agreement, disqualification or debarment of the company from participating in AUTHORITY contracts, or other sanctions.

This clause is not enforceable by or for the benefit of, and creates no obligation to, any third party.”

All Formal Solicitations issued for AUTHORITY contracts shall include the following certification to be completed by the RESPONDENT:

"The undersigned RESPONDENT hereby certifies and agrees that the following information is correct:

- 8 -

In preparing its response on this project, the RESPONDENT has considered all proposals submitted from qualified, potential Subcontractors and suppliers, and has not engaged in "discrimination" as defined in the AUTHORITY’s Commercial Nondiscrimination Policy as set forth in Section 6.3 of its Purchasing Manual, to wit: discrimination in the solicitation, selection or commercial treatment of any Subcontractor, vendor, supplier or commercial customer on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, disability, or genetic information, or on the basis of any otherwise unlawful use of characteristics regarding the vendor's, supplier's or commercial customer's employees or owners;

provided that nothing in this policy shall be construed to prohibit or limit otherwise lawful efforts to remedy the effects of discrimination that have occurred or are occurring in SWA’s relevant marketplace of Palm Beach County. Without limiting the foregoing, "discrimination" also includes retaliating against any person or other entity for reporting any incident of "discrimination." Without limiting any other provision of the solicitation for responses on this project, it is understood and agreed that, if this certification is false, such false certification will constitute grounds for the AUTHORITY to reject the response submitted by the RESPONDENT on this project, and to terminate any contract awarded based on the response. As part of its response, the RESPONDENT shall provide to the AUTHORITY a list of all instances within the immediate past four (4) years where there has been a final adjudicated determination in a legal or administrative proceeding in the State of Florida that the RESPONDENT discriminated against its Subcontractors, vendors, suppliers or commercial customers, and a description of the status or resolution of that complaint, including any remedial action taken.

As a condition of submitting a response to the AUTHORITY, the RESPONDENT agrees to comply with the AUTHORITY’s Commercial Nondiscrimination Policy as described under its Purchasing Manual – Economic Inclusion Policy and Procedures, Section 6.3.

1.20. THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARY DISCLAIMER:

It is not the intention of these RFP documents to create third party beneficiary status in any person or entity that is not a direct party to the contract awarded as a result of being the successful PROPOSER to this RFP, and no language in these RFP documents or the contract awarded pursuant to this RFP should be construed or interpreted as creating a third-party beneficiary.

1.21. E-VERIFY – EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY:

PROPOSER warrants and represents that it is in compliance with Section 448.095, Florida Statutes, as may be amended. No later than January 1, 2021, PROPOSER shall (1) register with and use the E-Verify System (E-Verify.gov) to electronically verify the employment eligibility of all newly hired workers; and (2) verify that all of the PROPOSER’s contractors/consultants and subcontractors/subconsultants performing any duties and obligations under the resultant agreement are registered with and use the E-Verify System to electronically verify the employment eligibility of all newly hired workers. AUTHORITY shall terminate the resultant agreement if it has a good faith belief that the PROPOSER has knowingly violated Section 448.09(1), Florida Statutes as may be amended.

1.22. EQUAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM:

A. The Governing Board of the AUTHORITY has implemented the Economic Inclusion Policy and Procedures administered by the Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Office to ensure that all segments of its business population, including, but not limited to local, small, minority, and women-owned businesses, have an equitable opportunity to participate in the AUTHORITY’S procurement process. Refer to Section 6 of the AUTHORITY’s Purchasing Manual, as recently revised, which are hereby incorporated herein by specific reference. The AUTHORITY’s Purchasing Manual is available at https://swa.org/602/PURCHASING-MANUAL. It is the intention that the PROPOSER review and understand these provisions. By submitting a Proposal, it shall be considered a determinative acknowledgment that the PROPOSER has done so and fully understands these provisions and agrees https://swa.org/602/PURCHASING-MANUAL

- 9 -that all are acceptable. In addition, program tools and solicitation incentives are hereby referred to as the Affirmative Procurement Initiatives (API).

B. Each solicitation will be evaluated to determine the appropriate Affirmative Procurement Initiatives (API) to be applied. The API will be outlined in detail in Part III “Proposal Submission Requirements” located herein. Failure to meet the API requirement will deem the PROPOSER’S response as NON-

RESPONSIVE.

1.23 PROHIBITION AGAINST CONSIDERING SOCIAL, POLITICAL OR IDEOLOGICAL INTERESTS IN

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING – F.S. 287.05701(2023):

PROPOSERS are hereby notified of the provisions of section 287.05701(2023), Florida Statutes, as amended, that the AUTHORITY will not request documentation of or consider a PROPOSER’s social, political, or ideological interests when determining if the PROPOSER is a responsible PROPOSER. PROPOSERS are further notified that the AUTHORITY’s governing body may not give preference to a PROPOSER based on the PROPOSER’s social, political, or ideological interests.

1.24 NON-GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING:

RESPONDENT warrants and represents that it is in compliance with Section 787.06 of the Florida Statutes, and declares that the RESPONDENT does not use coercion for labor or services as defined in the statutes.

REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

- 10 -

SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 INTRODUCTION:

The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (AUTHORITY) is requesting written Proposals from experienced and qualified individuals, corporations, partnerships or other entities (PROPOSER) that are authorized and licensed to perform services in the State of Florida to provide expert and professional Legislative Representation Services. Proposals shall be designed to demonstrate the complete range of services available from the PROPOSER, and how those services may best support and promote the AUTHORITY in its legislative matters/initiatives. It is the AUTHORITY’s intention to award the contract to provide the services as stated herein to the most qualified PROPOSER.

2.2 WORK OBJECTIVE:

The primary scope of work is representation in Tallahassee with the Florida Legislature during scheduled, extended, and special State legislative sessions and meetings. Federal representation is not a significant part of the scope of work but may be included as part of the work to be performed.

2.3 SCOPE OF WORK:

A. The PROPOSER shall provide consultation to and representation of the AUTHORITY on Legislative Issues, which may affect AUTHORITY facilities, programs or finances. Specific work may include monitoring and review of the following areas:

• Solid Waste, Recycling and Environmental: This includes matters pertinent to the collection, processing, and disposal of solid waste.

• Special Assessment and Finance: This includes matters that may involve the AUTHORITY’s non-ad valorem disposal assessment and the Revenue Bonds issued by the AUTHORITY to finance solid waste infrastructure.

• Dependent Special District and Local Government Representation: This includes matters pertaining to the AUTHORITY’s status as a Dependent Special District, as well as more general issues pertaining to its role as a local government service provider.

• Independent Power Production and Utilities: This includes matters concerning the AUTHORITY’s role in producing electrical power through renewable energy or landfill gas facilities, and regulation of power producers and local utilities.

• Other services as deemed appropriate (by AUTHORITY) for this Agreement.

B. The AUTHORITY seeks to retain the services of a Legislative Consultant for matters in which the AUTHORITY may need professional services before the Florida Legislature, State of Florida administrative committee hearing and meetings, or legislative agency meetings. Litigation, administrative hearings and rule challenges are outside the scope of this resultant agreement and would be handled, if required, under a separate agreement and separate compensation. Services may include Federal legislative matters.

2.4 WORK PRODUCTS REQUIRED:

A. The awarded PROPOSER shall review on a continuing basis, all existing and proposed State policies, programs and legislation; and identify those issues that may affect the AUTHORITY or its rate payers and regularly communicate to the AUTHORITY.

- 11 -

B. The awarded PROPOSER shall monitor state legislative committee meetings, state agency hearings and meetings prior to and during the regular and special session(s) at which specific issues delineated with the AUTHORITY’s adopted legislative program are placed on an Agenda, as well as other issues which may arise that affect the AUTHORITY.

C. The awarded PROPOSER shall develop and implement a strategy for support, defeat, or amendment of pending legislation.

D. The awarded PROPOSER shall testify and lobby before the Legislature, Governor, and Cabinet as necessary on behalf of the AUTHORITY, during the annual legislative session, extended or special sessions, and at legislative committee meetings and meetings of the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation.

E. The awarded PROPOSER shall appear and testify before legislative committees as required to promote and seek passage of Federal and State legislation affecting the AUTHORITY or its rate payers, and specific legislation contained in the AUTHORITY’s legislative program.

F. Upon request the awarded PROPOSER shall coordinate appointments/meetings between the SWA

Board or other AUTHORITY staff, and appropriate state officials and legislators.

G. The awarded PROPOSER must agree to be available to meet with the SWA Board, AUTHORITY’s staff, and others as specified in order to perform the responsibilities assigned, and to attend and represent the AUTHORITY at any legislative committee meeting or meetings with the Governor, Cabinet or Cabinet members, State or Federal agencies on matters covered under the Scope of Work.

2.5 PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:

A. During the legislative session, the successful PROPOSER shall maintain daily contact and report at least weekly on the status of any legislation and issues of concern to the AUTHORITY. Such reports may include personal briefings and information bulletins pertinent to any legislation, rules or regulations, and other state policies or programs that affect the AUTHORITY and its rate payers either directly or indirectly.

A report shall be submitted at the end of each week detailing legislative action taken during the week, status of legislative issues, and anticipated action during the upcoming week. A final report which summarizes the status of the AUTHORITY’s legislative priorities shall be provided within one (1) week of the closing of the session. A more detailed follow-up report on specific legislation affecting the AUTHORITY shall be provided within a reasonable time period, not to exceed sixty (60) days after the close of the session.

B. The awarded PROPOSER shall provide periodic written reports (at least monthly) during those months that the legislature is not in session, on issues of interest or concern to the AUTHORITY. Such information may include action taken at interim committee meetings, status of studies underway, and advance notice of legislation being proposed.

C. In conjunction with Section 2.4 C. herein, the awarded PROPOSER shall provide an annual submission of Suggested Legislative Strategy that will provide a proposed written legislative strategy for the AUTHORITY to consider. The strategy should be based on pending legislative actions, trends, and political activities etc. and shall include specific objectives for key meetings to arrange, activities to monitor, and other actions that occur over the coming year. The strategy will also include talking points to be used by the AUTHORITYs Executive Director and the AUTHORITY staff.

- 12 -

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.1 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND FORMAT:

A. The AUTHORITY uses Bonfire, a 100% digital method of accessing and responding to solicitations.

Therefore, PROPOSERS must submit their proposals via Bonfire. The AUTHORITY must receive all Proposals no later than 2:00 P.M., Eastern Time on the date established in the Procurement Schedule.

The complete Proposal package shall be submitted through Bonfire. Should the PROPOSER have any issues with any interaction with the e-Procurement system, PROPOSER is encouraged to contact the Bonfire support desk for assistance: https://vendorsupport.gobonfire.com/hc/en-us.

B. Marketing brochures or any other information not pertaining to this RFP shall not be included in the

Proposal.

C. Proposals shall demonstrate that the PROPOSER is qualified to perform the Scope of Work based upon relevant professional experience.

3.2 CONTENT:

The PROPOSER shall provide the appropriate information in accordance with the content requirements set forth in the following subsections. To allow the Board to more effectively review the Proposals, PROPOSERS shall provide all requested information in the order and in the format requested below.

3.2.1 Title Page

The Title Page shall include the RFP Title and Number. The page shall indicate clearly the name of the PROPOSER submitting the Proposal and the name, address, phone number, fax number and e-mail address of the PROPOSER’S designated contact person. The PROPOSER’S designated contact person is the individual who shall be the main point of contact for the AUTHORITY to communicate with regarding this procurement.

3.2.2 Table of Contents

3.2.3 General Information

PROPOSER shall provide completed forms as follows:

3.2.3.1 Transmittal Letter

PROPOSER shall submit a completed Transmittal Letter acknowledging, among other things, that the PROPOSER has completely reviewed, understands, and agrees to be bound by the requirements of this RFP. The Proposal Transmittal Letter shall be signed by a representative of the PROPOSER who is empowered to sign it and to commit the PROPOSER to the obligations contained in the Proposal.

3.2.3.2 Price Proposal

A. PROPOSER shall submit a completed Price Proposal. No minimum or maximum amount of work is being promised.

https://us-west-2.protection.sophos.com/?d=gobonfire.com&u=aHR0cHM6Ly92ZW5kb3JzdXBwb3J0LmdvYm9uZmlyZS5jb20vaGMvZW4tdXM=&i=NTg3YTc0ODAzZDI0NDMxMDViNjJhNmUy&t=a3FjcDVVMnZjU1pCeEpac1FwOXhEM0dSNWZFaXRHZDJ0WTZBTU9WTjdPaz0=&h=3c060e5c6e9e43dba319fbaaf1da5ed2&s=AVNPUEhUT0NFTkNSWVBUSVZrq9rN1LlXd7E_1X4j6D__3Rx-7DFbU4qw2pJztLUqbw

- 13 -

B. The AUTHORITY may request explanations for any out-of-balance pricing, explanations for any pricing it deems too low or too high, and to negotiate the best and final price with the best ranked PROPOSER(S). In addition, the AUTHORITY reserves the right to request additional pricing, negotiated by hourly rate, lump sum or not-to-exceed amount to perform services.

3.2.3.3 Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Subcontractor/Supplier Commitment Form

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Subcontractor/Supplier Commitment Form, if applicable.

3.2.3.4 Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Subcontractor/Supplier Participation Schedule

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Participation of SBE Firms, if applicable.

3.2.3.5 Statement of Intent to Perform as a SBE Subcontractor/Supplier PROPOSER shall provide a completed Statement of Intent to Perform as an SBE Subcontractor/Supplier, if applicable.

3.2.3.6 Subcontracting Goal – Waiver Request

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Subcontracting Goal – Waiver Request, if applicable.

3.2.3.7 Good Faith Effort Documentation Form

PROPOSER is encouraged to submit Good Faith Effort Documentation, if applicable, to document Good Faith Efforts to achieve a Waiver Request when submitting the Subcontracting Goal – Waiver Request.

3.2.3.8 Certification of Business Location

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Certification of Business Location.

3.2.3.9 PROPOSER’S Qualification Statement

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Proposer’s Qualification Statement.

3.2.3.10 Vendor Acknowledgement Form

PROPOSER shall provide a completed Vendor Acknowledgement Form.

3.2.4 Minimum Requirements

The PROPOSER shall substantiate in its submittal that it meets or exceeds the following minimum requirements. Failure to do so may be cause for disqualification of its submittal:

A. PROPOSER must be engaged in providing the services as outlined in this RFP.

B. PROPOSER must have a demonstrated comprehensive understanding in areas listed in this RFP.

Understanding and previous experience are essential criteria in the qualifying process;

C. PROPOSER’S personnel and management to be utilized for the services described in this RFP

- 14 -shall be knowledgeable in their areas of expertise. The AUTHORITY reserves the right to perform investigations as may be deemed necessary to insure that competent persons will be utilized in the performance of the contract.

D. PROPOSER shall provide evidence of current levels of insurance as stipulated in the Insurance

Requirements Checklist of the Sample Agreement – Attachment A.

3.2.5 PROPOSER Experience

PROPOSER shall submit the following:

A. PROPOSER’S Credentials: Details on the qualifications of the firm, including a brief history of the firm, documentation of the firm’s experience providing services for Solid Waste management agencies similar to those requested in this RFP and the number of years in business. The above qualifications are intended only to apply to the PROPOSER and not for sub-consultant(s).

However, the following qualifications for the subconsultant(s) should also be included in this section;

B. Past Performance: PROPOSER shall provide samples of past reports or information material provided to clients of the PROPOSER within the past three (3) years.

C. Managerial Capabilities: Provide evidence of the firm’s ability to manage tasks simultaneously and expeditiously and describe firm’s approach to problem/task resolution and teamwork;

D. References: List a minimum of three (3) former references (name, contact persons, telephone number and email address) for similar projects based on the areas of expertise outlined in Section 2.3 “Scope of Work”, who can attest to the firm’s knowledge, quality of work, timeliness, diligence and flexibility. NOTE: Contact persons must be informed by the PROPOSER that they are being used as reference and that the AUTHORITY will be contacting them for information.

Each reference will be contacted up to three (3) times. If there is no answer after the third attempt, the AUTHORITY may apply no points for that project experience.

E. Current Contracts: PROPOSER shall provide a list of clients served in the areas of expertise pertinent to the Scope of Work for the past three (3) years. Each of these clients shall be listed under the appropriate area of expertise exercised and contact persons for references. The areas of expertise are as follows: 1) Solid Waste Recycling and Environmental Issues, 2) Special Assessment and Finance, 3) Dependent Special District and Local Government Representation;

and 4) Independent Power Production and Utilities. See Section 2.03 A. “Scope of Work” for definitions of the areas of expertise.

F. Invoice Processing: The PROPOSER shall provide a description of its invoicing process.

3.2.6 PROPOSER’S Qualifications of Key Personnel

A. Expertise of Designated Staff: Describe the qualifications and experience of personnel that will provide these services including demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the types of services to be performed; previous experience in similar or related work, local codes, laws and regulations governing the work;

B. Identify the lead person(s) proposed who will represent the AUTHORITY for services and include their qualifications.

- 15 -

C. Provide an organizational chart of all the key personnel to be assigned to this agreement.

3.2.7 Technical

In this section PROPOSER must explain the Scope of Work herein as understood by the PROPOSER and detail the approach, activities and work products. PROPOSER shall also provide the following:

A. A detailed list of all services that the firm is able to provide and explain how these services will be accomplished;

B. Address, in the order presented, all of the services outlined in the section for Scope of Work herein;

C. Provide a guaranteed response time and schedule of services;

D. A list of any assistance the AUTHORITY may be requested to provide to the selected PROPOSER;

E. Other information the PROPOSER may deem advantageous to demonstrate understanding and approach to the work.

3.2.8 Price Proposal:

Price Proposal will include a monthly retainer fee that shall be exclusive of all expenses for lobbying efforts as a result of this RFP. The lowest priced Price Proposal will receive the maximum points allowed under this criterion. All others will be scored based on comparison to the lowest Price Proposal.

3.2.9 Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Participation

A. The Governing Board of the AUTHORITY has implemented the Economic Inclusion Policy and

Procedures administered by the Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Program Office to ensure that all segments of its business population, including, but not limited to local small businesses, have an equitable opportunity to participate in the AUTHORITY’S procurement process. Refer to Section 6 of the AUTHORITY’s Purchasing Manual, as incorporated herein. Small Business Enterprise (SBE) is hereby mentioned as (“SBE”) in the RFP. The PROPOSER also agrees that by submitting its response to this RFP that it constitutes an acknowledgement that it has reviewed this Section of the AUTHORITY’s Purchasing Manual, understands it, and that it is specifically incorporated herein.

B. At the August 20,2025 Board meeting of the Solid Waste Authority, it was determined that NO

API shall be applied to this procurement. The Authority does, however, encourage Small Business (SBE) participation. If your submittal includes SBE subcontractor participation, please fill out the Small Business Enterprise Subcontractor/Supplier Participation Schedule.

C. For information on the Authority’s Economic Inclusion Policy and Procedures, please contact the EBO Office at 561-640-4000 extension 4549 or visit www.swa.org/EBO.

D. Awarded Proposer shall register and maintain active status in the Authority’s Vendor

Registration System. To register as a vendor, visit www.swa.org/vendor..

E. In the event that the PROPOSER voluntarily chooses to use an SBE as a subcontractor, a Small

Business Enterprise Subcontractor/Supplier Participation Schedule must be submitted.

http://www.swa.org/EBO https://www.swa.org/vendor

- 16 -

If a PROPOSER chooses this option, the following subsections E through 3.2.9.4 inclusive, set forth below, apply.

F. The PROPOSER must submit a completed Small Business Enterprise Commitment Form, SBE

Subcontractor/Supplier Participation Schedule, and Statement of Intent to perform as a SBE Subcontractor/Supplier Form to the AUTHORITY with its response affirming its commitment to meet the SBE Subcontracting Participation requirement(s) indicated in the Procurement.