Invitation to Bid Temporary North Area Mowing and Landscaping

Services

ITB-27-00027

ITB-27-00027 Page 1

SOLICITATION TYPE: Competitive Sealed Bids

SOLICITATION NUMBER: ITB-27-00027

SOLICITATION TITLE: Temporary North Area Mowing and Landscaping Services

BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (County) is seeking competitive sealed bids from experienced and qualified contractors to provide temporary mowing and landscaping maintenance services at various Water Resources Department facilities located throughout Hillsborough County for a three (3)-month period.

DUE DATE & TIME: November 19, 2026, 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time (as recorded by the County’s Electronic Bidding System)

ISSUING DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR:

The Director of Procurement is considered the issuing department director for the purpose of Section 2-567(c) of the Hillsborough County Procurement Protest Policy and Procedures Ordinance.

BID SUBMISSION: The County will only accept bids submitted through its electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement). Bids that are submitted or delivered by non-electronic means (hard-copy paper), facsimile, electronic mail (e-mail), electronic file, or means other than through the County's electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement) will not be accepted or considered. Please visit our vendors webpage (hcfl.gov/vendors) for information regarding vendor registration, electronic bid submission, procurement opportunities, and other important resources.

TIMELINESS: To preserve the integrity of the competitive sealed bid process, bids submitted after the due date and time listed above, unless otherwise amended, cannot and will not be accepted. Please do not wait until the last minute, hour, or day to submit your bid, as you may encounter technical difficulties or issues that cannot be resolved before the due date and time. When preparing to submit your bid, please read and follow all instructions regarding formatting and other details related to the form(s) to be used. Again, please do not wait until it’s too late for assistance. We value and need your participation, so the last thing we want is for you to miss this opportunity.

QUESTIONS: ● Questions regarding technical difficulties or errors encountered while submitting proposals through Euna Procurement must be directed to

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SUBMITTING BID

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Euna Procurement Support at 1-844-226-3862 or support.bonfire @eunasolutions.com.

● Questions regarding the specifications or solicitation document must be directed to the County using the “messages” section in Euna Procurement for this particular procurement.

To be given consideration, such requests must be received no later than ten (10) calendar days after the date of Solicitation issuance in Euna Procurement, site visit, or pre-bid conference, whichever is later.

● Questions regarding vendor registration, training, or general questions must be directed to the Supplier Engagement Team at (813) 272-5790 or iSupplier@HCFL.gov.

CONE OF SILENCE: A Cone of Silence is in effect for this procurement; therefore, no bidder, interested party and/or their principals, officers, employees, attorneys, or agents shall communicate with County employees, the Hearing Master assigned to hear the applicable protest appeal and/or members of the Board of County Commissioners, including their aides and employees regarding this procurement and/or a related protest, except as otherwise provided in the Hillsborough County Procurement Protest Policy and Procedures Ordinance. The Cone of Silence does not prohibit a bidder from communicating with the Director of Procurement, staff in the Procurement Services Department, or the County’s attorney assigned to this procurement. Violating the Cone of Silence may disqualify the bidder from consideration for award. Please refer to the Instructions for complete details about the Cone of Silence.

INSURANCE: Insurance coverage is required for this procurement. Please see ITB-27-00027 Insurance Requirements Attachment and Special Terms and Conditions.

SURETY (BONDS): Bid, performance, and/or payment surety is not required for this procurement.

E-VERIFY: The Department of Homeland Security's Image Program and E-Verify apply to this procurement. Please see General Terms and Conditions for complete details and requirements.

DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY COMPLIANCE:

Any and all information and communications technology developed, provided, procured, maintained, or otherwise made available under this Contract and intended for public access or use, shall comply with various accessibility standards. Please see General Terms and Conditions for complete details and requirements.

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1. SPECIFICATIONS

1.1. Scope

1.1.1 The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (County) is seeking competitive sealed bids from experienced and qualified contractors to provide temporary mowing and landscaping maintenance services at various Water Resources Department (WRD) facilities located throughout Hillsborough County for a three (3)-month period.

1.1.2 The following attachments are provided for your review and use:

1.1.2.1 Attachment A – North Region 2026

1.1.2.2 Attachment B – Group A Locations

1.1.2.3 Attachment C – Linear Feet Calculation

1.1.2.4 Attachment D – Mulch Calculation

1.2. Applicable Publications, Terminology, and Acronyms

The following publication(s) of the issue in effect on date of this solicitation, forms a part of this specification:

1.2.1 American National Standards Institute Z133.1 and A300-Part 1 (Safety and Pruning Standards).

https://www.standardsportal.org/usa_en/sdo/tcia.aspx

1.2.2 Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association

https://fngla.org/ https://profile.fngla.org/FNGLA-Item-Details?id=24e531a8-0070-e911-80e7- 0003ff6826b8&_gl=1*d6dhyt*_gcl_au*Nzg1ODQ4MDUuMTc5MDc4ODI2Mw..*_ga*MTAzOTcy NDAxMS4xNzkwNzg4MTc1*_ga_SWR3QJ35Y0*czE3OTA3ODgxNzQkbzEkZzEkdDE3OTA3ODgyNj gkajU0JGwwJGgw&reload=timezone

1.2.3 Florida Statutes, Section 373.62 (2)

https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Welcome/index.cfm?CFID=315990505&CFTOKEN=510974a22bba3f

29-4A5CDD81-DA45-8662-5EE627751685CAA6

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1.2.4 Environmental Protection Agency, non-restricted, approved, biodegradable, non-bioaccumulating chemical herbicide with dye.

https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/search-registered-pesticide-products

1.2.5 Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

https://www.fdacs.gov/

The following terminology shall apply to these Specifications:

1.2.6 “Bank” shall mean the slope of land between the Berm and the adjoining body of water.

1.2.7 “Berm” shall mean the ledge, shelf, or flat area along the top edge of the slope.

1.2.8 “Debris and Litter” shall mean, but is not limited to, varied sizes of bottles, cans, paper, tires, tire pieces, lumber, vehicle parts, metal junk, plastics, diapers, cigarette butts, small outdoor advertisement signs, grass, weeds, brush, sticks, tree limbs, trimmings, Vegetation, and other items to be removed under this Solicitation.

1.2.9 “Edging” shall mean the cut edge at the limits of Turf or Vegetation. Typically, a vertical cut performed with a mechanical type of blade edger.

1.2.10 “Fixed Object” shall mean an object (i.e., monitoring wells, gas wells, tanks, piping, etc.)

within the Finish and/or Field Mowing area that is not permitted to have herbicides used on or around it.

1.2.11 “Grill Plate/Cover” shall mean any type of pond drainage cover or plate intended to keep Debris out of a drainage line or pathway so that water will flow from one location to another.

1.2.12 “Mowing” shall mean to cut down grass or Vegetation with a mechanical device. Also called Finish Mowing and Field Mowing.

1.2.13 “One-Time Cleanup” shall mean service to restore the appearance of the Facility to an acceptable service level.

1.2.14 “Plans” shall mean diagrams/drawings from the County documenting the location, size, and limits of the Facility. Plans may include, but are not limited to, lists, spreadsheets, site plans, and/or GIS shape files.

1.2.15 “Retention Pond” shall mean a pond designed to catch runoff water from higher elevation areas that holds a specific amount of water.

1.2.16 “Reject Pond” shall mean a pond designed to hold a specific amount of water which has been discharged from a wastewater treatment plant that does not meet public access reuse standards.

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1.2.17 “Scalping” shall mean the excessive removal of Turf grass leaf tissue during Mowing, resulting in the mower cutting into or excessively exposing the Turf grass crown, stolons, or soil surface, and producing a visibly damaged, excessively brown, or uneven appearance.

1.2.18 “Trimming” shall mean the maintenance of Vegetation at specified heights adjacent to any structure, fence, sidewalk, or paved area. Typically, a horizontal cut made by a monofilament string trimmer.

1.2.19 “Turf” shall mean grasses or grass-like ground cover established and maintained for lawn or landscape purposes, including the soil and root zone supporting the Turf.

1.2.20 “Vegetation” shall mean, but is not limited to, planted and/or natural grasses, weeds, vines, and other Vegetation within the work areas.

1.2.21 “Weeds/Weeding” shall mean a plant considered undesirable, unattractive, or troublesome, especially one growing where it is not wanted. The removal of weeds shall be done by pulling or plucking from the soil within a landscaped area. This shall typically be done by hand.

1.2.22 “Work Area” shall mean an area of property to be mowed, trimmed, edged, or having other Services applied as defined in these Specifications.

1.2.23 “Fast Growth Season” shall mean the period beginning April 1 and ending September 30.

1.2.24 “Slow Growth Season” shall mean the period beginning October 1 and ending March 31.

1.2.25 “Finish Mowing” shall mean the operation by authorized Contractor personnel of sufficient motorized grass-cutting equipment of suitable size and horsepower to accomplish the per-Site grass-cutting requirements to the specified Finished Mowing height identified in these Specifications.

1.2.26 “Field Mowing” shall mean the operation by authorized Contractor personnel of sufficient motorized grass-cutting equipment of suitable size and horsepower to accomplish the per-Site grass-cutting requirements to the specified Field Mowing height identified in these Specifications.

1.2.27 “Field Mowing Season” shall mean Mowing occurring once per month at equally spaced monthly intervals at each Field Mowing Site listed in Attachment A – North Region 2026, unless stated otherwise or as directed by the PM.

1.2.28 “Deliberate Fence Line Maintenance” shall mean cutting, Mowing, hand pulling, weed eating, spraying herbicide, or a combination of these methods on a quarterly basis to remove Vegetation growth from the designated Fence Line identified in Attachment A - North Region 2026 to maintain Vegetation standoff.

1.2.29 “Additional Fence Line Maintenance” shall be performed on any section of Fence Line not identified in Attachment A – North Region 2026 that has been previously cleared and does not rise to the level of requiring a clearing operation.

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1.2.30 “Fence Line Clearing” shall mean clearing of a section of Fence Line that has not been maintained prior to the initiation of the Contract to establish Vegetation standoff and allow for subsequent Fence Line Maintenance. This type of Fence Line landscaping may require the use of heavy equipment, including, but not limited to, chainsaws, graders, and other clearing equipment.

1.2.31 “Headwalls” shall mean any structure built around the ends of drainage pipes or culverts where water enters or exits the ponds. They help support the pipe, stabilize the surrounding soil, and reduce erosion.

1.2.32 “Riprap” shall mean a layer of loose rocks or stones places along pond banks, drainage channels, slopes, and around inlet or outlet pipes to prevent soil erosion caused by flowing water or wave action.

1.2.33 “Spillway “shall mean a designated channel or structure that allows excess water to safely flow out of a pond when the water level rises above a certain point. It helps prevent uncontrolled overflow and protects the pond’s banks and surrounding property from erosion and flooding.

1.2.34 “Group A Property” shall mean a mowing area of more than 100,000 square feet.

The following acronyms form a part of this specification:

ANSI American National Standards Institute AWWTP Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency FDACS Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services FNGLA Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association GIS Geographic Information System MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet PM County’s Project Manager (or designee) PPE Personal Protective Equipment WRD Water Resources Department

1.3. Minimum Requirements

1.3.1 The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, permitting, services, expertise, and supervision necessary to perform the required services specified herein effectively, efficiently, and safely.

1.3.2 The Contractor shall comply with the ANSI Z133.1 and ANSI A300 – Part 1, Safety and Pruning Standards or current editions

1.3.3 The Contractor shall follow all established safety and security procedures, regulations and requirements.

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1.3.4 Equipment

1.3.4.1 The County reserves the right to inspect the Contractor’s equipment, at any time, during the term of the resulting Contract. Inspection of equipment by the County will not relieve the Contractor of its responsibility or liability for injury to people or damage to property caused by the operation of the equipment, nor will it relieve the Contractor of the responsibility to meet the established time for the completion of the Work.

1.3.4.2 The Contractor shall provide and maintain, throughout the term of the resulting Contract, all equipment, hand tools, and power tools, as required, to perform the specified Work identified in this Solicitation.

1.3.4.3 The Contractor shall provide equipment of types and quantities required to perform the Work as required under this Specifications and within the specified time periods.

1.3.4.4 The Contractor shall immediately remove equipment deficient in safety devices and keep said equipment out of service until the deficiency is corrected.

1.3.5 Personnel (Contractor Representative)

1.3.5.1 The Contractor shall assign and identify, to the PM, at least one (1) on-site, competent supervisor, per work site, who is able to communicate in English or have personnel readily available to translate. The supervisors shall be responsible for maintaining work site order, monitoring the Work, directing the Contractor’s personnel during the operation and completion of Work, and to observe/enforce the County’s safety and security requirements specific to the Contract and/or Work Order(s) being completed. The PM will not supervise the Contractor’s staff.

1.3.5.2 The Contractor shall provide, to the PM, the supervisor(s) telephone number that will be answered by supervisor Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time.

1.3.5.3 The Contractor’s supervisors shall be capable of identifying any existing and/or predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions of their assigned work sites.

The Contractor’s supervisors shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable safety regulations and shall have the authority and responsibility to take prompt corrective measures, up to and including the removal of the Contractor’s personnel from any work site.

Operations determined to be unsafe by the PM to be a hazard or violation of the County’s security or safety requirements shall be discontinued immediately by the Contractor upon the receipt of written or verbal notice to discontinue such operations by the PM.

1.3.5.4 The Contractor’s staff shall be sufficiently qualified to perform the services contemplated herein in a safe, efficient, competent, and timely manner. The Contractor’s personnel are prohibited from bringing unauthorized people, such as but not limited to, ITB-27-00027 Page 8 friends and/or family members, onto a County work site. Should such an event occur, the PM will cause the removal of such unauthorized people from the County’s work site.

1.3.5.5 The Contractor’s personnel shall be properly attired in a manner appropriate and commensurate with the Work being performed and in compliance with all applicable safety standards and regulations. The County reserves the right to require Contractor’s personnel to stop Work and leave the site if they are not dressed in accordance with these requirements.

The Contractor shall ensure that each of its representatives wear a shirt that plainly and prominently identifies the Contractor's company name and/or which contains the Contractor's imprinted, embroidered, or an appliqué of the company logo affixed thereto.

Such shirts shall be always worn by the Contractor’s representatives in performance of this contract.

1.3.5.6 The Contractor shall provide appropriate and required PPE to its staff and shall ensure that PPE is properly used during the performance of all Work contemplated herein.

1.3.5.7 The Contractor shall ensure that each representative operating a motor vehicle in performance of the Contract is properly licensed by the State of Florida for operation of that vehicle.

1.3.5.8 The Contractor shall ensure additional representatives are available to provide coverage during scheduled representatives' holiday, vacation, or sick time to ensure uninterrupted Services.

1.3.6 Standard Services Mowing/Landscaping (Finish or Field)

1.3.6.1 Except as otherwise provided herein, the Contractor shall furnish all resources necessary to provide the following Services:

1.3.6.1.1 Mowing/Landscaping - Standard Service.

1.3.6.1.2 One-Time Cleanup.

1.3.6.1.3 Mulch.

1.3.6.1.4 Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup.

1.3.6.1.5 Ornamental Plant and Shrub Assessment.

1.3.6.1.6 Additional Manual Labor Hours.

1.3.6.2 Standard Service for Mowing/landscaping includes:

1.3.6.2.1 Clearing of Areas to be Mowed.

1.3.6.2.2 Mowing (Finish or Field) of all actively growing areas.

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1.3.6.2.3 Edging and Line Trimming.

1.3.6.2.4 Vegetation Management and Weed Removal.

1.3.6.2.5 Ornamental Plant and Shrub Hedge Trimming and Shaping.

1.3.6.2.6 Pond and Storm Drain Grate Cleaning/Clearing.

1.3.6.2.7 Cleanup.

1.3.6.3 During the Fast Growth Season, the Contractor shall provide weekly Standard Service to the designated Finish Mowing/Landscaping area of each Facility listed in Attachment A – North Region 2026, unless otherwise directed by the PM.

1.3.6.4 During the Slow Growth Season, the Contractor shall provide Standard Service once every two (2) weeks at each Finish Mowing/Landscaping area of each Facility listed in Attachment A – North Region 2026, unless otherwise directed by the PM.

1.3.6.5 The County reserves the right to increase or decrease Mowing frequency as needed at any service location, dependent on weather and the timing of the active growing season.

1.3.6.6 Mowing shall be performed in accordance with the contemporary FNGLA Landscape Installation Manual, ensuring a smooth surface appearance without Scalping or leaving any uncut grass.

1.3.6.7 Mowing shall be performed in a careful manner to avoid damaging tree bark, tree supports, shrubs, sodded Berms, sprinkler heads, valves, manifolds, curbs, downspouts, or other items within or adjacent to the service area. Care shall also be taken to avoid intruding into ground cover beds.

1.3.6.8 The Contractor shall mow the grass evenly across the entire area, maintaining a consistent grass height in accordance the requirement listed herein:

1.3.6.8.1 Bahia or St. Augustine grass, standard varieties: four (4) inches.

1.3.6.8.2 Bahia or St. Augustine grass, dwarf varieties: two and one-half (2.5) inches.

1.3.6.8.3 For purposes of determining the appropriate mowing height, each Facility's Field Mowing and Finish Mowing areas shall be presumed to contain standard varieties of Bahia or St. Augustine grass unless otherwise directed by the PM. The PM shall determine the acceptability of Work performed by the Contractor. If the PM determines that a Site was not mowed appropriately, the Contractor shall redo the Site at no additional cost to the County. Dry Pond Beds and slopes shall be mowed to a height of six

(6) inches. All grass clippings shall be blown out of the Pond Beds and slopes.

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1.3.6.8.4 All grass and Vegetation around appurtenances, structures, gas wells, gas monitoring structures, pipe structures, and similar objects shall be mowed using hand tools to the same height and quality as the surrounding mowed area.

1.3.6.9 The Contractor shall strictly adhere to areas designated as NO MOW areas. These areas shall be clearly marked and shall not be maintained by the Contractor.

1.3.6.10 Clearing of Areas to be mowed includes removal of fallen tree limbs, palm fronds, similar Debris, and trash on areas to be mowed that would impede mowing activity or disperse mowed-over trash on the property. The Contractor may encounter mowing Sites having tall grass and Vegetation and various types of Debris and shall ensure these conditions are reflected within its capabilities and Contract pricing.

1.3.6.11 Finish Mowing shall occur at the time intervals specified for the Fast Growth Season and Slow Growth Season. Finish Mowing includes the entrance and right-of-way of each Facility, where applicable.

1.3.6.11.1 Finish Mowing shall be accomplished with a finishing deck on a weekly or bi-weekly basis depending on the Fast Growth Season or Slow Growth Season.

1.3.6.11.2 The PM may direct additional Mowing as needed.

1.3.6.12 Field Mowing shall occur at the time intervals specified for the Field Mowing Schedule. Typically, Field Mowing shall occur on large areas or acreage located within a Facility's geographic confines that are not part of the Facility's designated Finish Mowing area.

1.3.6.12.1 Field Mowing shall be accomplished with a Field Mowing deck (equipment).

1.3.6.12.2 Exceptions to the Field Mowing Schedule include specific Facilities identified in Attachment A – North Region 2026 that require Mowing on a quarterly basis only.

1.3.6.13 Edging and Line Trimming includes mechanical edging and/or line trimming of all areas bordering grassy areas, such as entrance roads, internal roads and paths, parking lots, buildings, curbing, mulched and non-mulched planter beds, sidewalks, concrete slabs, walls, tanks, and similar areas. The Contractor shall ensure that tree trunks, shrubs, bushes, buildings, structures, landscaping, or any other permanent or temporary fixture are not damaged as a result of edging and trimming activities. Grass clippings and Debris shall not be blown into paved areas, onto building or tank exteriors, into storm drains, or into Ponds.

1.3.6.13.1 The cut edge shall appear as a clean, straight line.

1.3.6.13.2 Edged areas shall be neat and provide a distinct separation between grassy areas and paved, rocked, gravel, or mulched areas. Sidewalks and paved areas, including parking lots, shall be edged on both sides using mechanical edgers or line trimmers and shall be swept or blown clean. Lawn edges along sidewalks and curbs shall be edged during, before, or after each Mowing. Weeds or grass in cracks or joints may be treated

ITB-27-00027 Page 11 with a non-restricted, EPA-approved, biodegradable, non-bioaccumulating chemical herbicide with dye, provided such growth is treated before exceeding three (3) inches in height; otherwise, it shall be mechanically or manually trimmed prior to herbicide application. For edging Services along Fence Lines, the Contractor may use such approved herbicide products down to four (4) inches above ground to prevent Vegetation growth.

1.3.6.13.3 Chemical herbicides shall be used in the manner described on the label and as required by applicable regulatory agencies. Any herbicide used shall include the chemical dye described in Section 1.3.6.14.4. All parameters for herbicidal usage contained herein shall apply.

1.3.6.13.4 Line trimmers may be used around trees, telephone poles, fire hydrants, signposts, railings, buffer walls, culvert ends, and similar objects. Use of line trimmers shall be discontinued if their use results in damage to nearby plants, trees, or other objects. In such situations, the Contractor shall discuss an alternative trim method with the PM, who may approve or deny the recommended alternative.

1.3.6.13.5 The County shall require line trimming around reclaimed water spray fields, mechanical piping including concrete and metal pipe, electrical transformers and poles, and other structures within Field or Finish Mowing areas.

1.3.6.13.6 The Contractor shall line-trim a ten (10)-foot-wide area around all mechanical equipment and other structures located within Field Mowing or Finish Mowing areas. This work shall be performed at least once per month.

1.3.6.14 The Contractor shall perform the manual and/or mechanical removal of weeds and unwanted Vegetation from all plant beds and decorative/non-decorative landscaped areas at all Facilities. Adjoining paved areas shall be left in a clean, swept condition.

1.3.6.14.1 Where applicable, the Contractor may utilize an herbicidal treatment for Vegetation management and weed removal.

1.3.6.14.2 The Contractor shall use a non-restricted, EPA-approved, biodegradable, non-bioaccumulating chemical herbicide with dye.

1.3.6.14.3 The Contractor may apply an additional herbicide treatment to prevent re-growth.

1.3.6.14.4 When using herbicidal treatment for Vegetation Management and Weed Removal or Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup Services, the Contractor shall include an EPA-approved biodegradable blue or green spray indicator dye at a very low dilution rate to indicate treated areas.

1.3.6.14.5 When the Contractor intends to use herbicide for Vegetation management and/or weed removal/re-growth, the Contractor shall provide the PM with the official MSDS sheet for approval and a written plan/list of all intended areas to be treated not

ITB-27-00027 Page 12 less than two (2) weeks prior to the first application. The Contractor shall not spray herbicide near Ponds or in swales leading to or away from Ponds and shall not use non-selective herbicides to eradicate large swaths of grassed areas. At least two (2) weeks prior to treatment, the Contractor shall provide the PM with the name and product number of the indicator dye, manufacturer, color, dilution rate, and MSDS sheet for approval.

1.3.6.15 Weeds located in designated Field Mowing and/or Finish Mowing areas shall be mowed in the same manner as the Facility's standard grass variety.

1.3.6.16 The Contractor shall trim and shape hedges, ornamental decorative plants, bushes, and decorative bed Vegetation so that long, dead, or erratic shoots are eliminated. Dead palm fronds shall be removed from all palm trees with a height under six (6) feet. This Service shall be performed at all applicable Facilities.

1.3.6.17 All inlet/outlet grates and Pond and storm drains shall be cleaned and kept free of Debris, Litter, tree limbs, palm fronds, vegetative matter, and similar materials so that they flow freely.

1.3.6.18 The Contractor shall mow and otherwise maintain the inside Pond slope down to the existing water line of each Pond within the property boundaries unless specifically exempted. Herbicides or chemical sprays shall not be used to eradicate growth on Pond slopes or ditches leading into or away from Ponds. If a Pond bottom is dry and hard, the Contractor shall mow the dry/hard land surfaces. Wheeled/motorized grass-cutting equipment may be used under such conditions. Upon entering any Pond Berm, the Contractor shall raise and disengage all cutting blades to avoid Scalping the Berm. Motorized/wheeled equipment shall not be used when the land surface is soft or wet or where such equipment would damage the surface. Under such conditions, line trimmers or other hand-held mechanical devices shall be used to bring Vegetation and grass to the specified height. All grass clippings shall be removed from the Pond. No clippings shall be left below the top of the Pond Bank or Berm.

1.3.6.19 Cleanup includes the cleaning, removal, and disposal of trash, Litter, Debris, clumps of mowed grass, grass clippings, hedge trimmings, palm trimmings, downed small tree branches, and Debris on paved areas and parking lots by blowers or brooms. The Contractor shall ensure grass clippings are not deposited or blown into culverts, Ponds, or swales, or onto buildings, tanks, structures, or similar surfaces. Clippings shall be removed from storm sewer and culvert inlets. The Contractor shall repair any ruts or damage to slopes, Berms, and bottoms of dry Ponds/ditches caused by its activities.

1.3.7 One-Time Cleanup Services (Finish or Field)

1.3.7.1 The Contractor shall perform One-Time Cleanup only at the request of the PM and shall complete the One-Time Cleanup within thirty (30) Days of authorization. Upon completion, the Site shall be restored to an acceptable and serviceable level and ready to receive Mowing/Landscaping Standard Service. One-Time Cleanup includes:

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1.3.7.1.1 Clearing of Areas to be Mowed.

1.3.7.1.2 Mowing (Finish or Field).

1.3.7.1.3 Edging and Line Trimming.

1.3.7.1.4 Vegetation Management and Weed Removal.

1.3.7.1.5 Ornamental Plant and Shrub Hedge Trimming and Shaping.

1.3.7.1.6 Pond and Storm Drain Grate Clearing/Cleaning.

1.3.7.2 One-Time Cleanup Services may require use of non-standard/oversized equipment such as a Bush Hog and additional personnel. The Contractor may utilize Subcontractors for One-Time Cleanup Services.

1.3.8 Mulch

1.3.8.1 Between January 1 and April 1, the Contractor shall, if directed by the PM, supply and install mulch at each Facility requiring such Services for designated plant beds and tree rings to a depth of four (4) inches after settling. A one (1) to two (2) inch mulch-free space shall be maintained around plant stems or tree trunks. The Contractor shall supply all mulch.

Compensation shall be paid at the applicable Bid Table line-item price. See Attachment D – Mulch Calculation for mulch calculation.

1.3.8.2 The County requires only pine bark mulch at each Facility location.

1.3.9 Fence Line Clearing

1.3.9.1 Fence Line Clearing shall be performed only upon direction and authorization of the PM. A quote shall be provided prior to Work, a Purchase Order shall be issued, and then the Work shall be performed.

1.3.9.2 Once this maintenance is performed, the Fence Line shall receive Deliberate Fence Line Maintenance quarterly.

1.3.10 Additional Fence Line Maintenance

1.3.10.1 Additional Fence Line Maintenance shall be performed only upon direction and authorization of the PM. A quote shall be provided prior to Work, a Purchase Order shall be issued, and then the Work shall be performed.

1.3.10.2 Once this maintenance is performed, the Fence Line shall receive Deliberate Fence Line Maintenance quarterly. Deliberate Fence Line Maintenance shall be in addition to other scheduled Mowing identified in the Contract and does not negate any Mowing required under the Contract.

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1.3.11 Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup

1.3.11.1 Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup includes removal of vines, brush, unwanted bushes, tall grass, weeds, limbs, and similar Vegetation. Removal on the outside of a Fence Line shall be Site-specific and performed only under the direction of the PM.

Compensation shall be based on the accepted Bid Table price for line items identified for Deliberate Fence Line Maintenance or on a price-per-linear-foot basis for additional Fence Line cleanup, as approved by the PM. The distance on each side of the Fence Line shall be not less than two (2) feet and not more than 15 feet. Acceptable methods include Hand Removal, Herbicidal Treatment, Bush Hog, or a combination of these methods. The County reserves the right to limit the amount of linear footage cleaned in the County's best interest. The Contractor shall perform Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup at any Facility listed in Attachment A – North Region 2026 when requested by the PM.

1.3.11.1.1 The Contractor may utilize mechanical equipment or remove Vegetation by hand.

1.3.11.1.2 Where applicable, the Contractor may use an herbicidal treatment for Vegetation removal with prior written approval from the PM.

1.3.11.1.3 Where Fence Lines abut Ponds or wetlands, herbicide removal is strictly prohibited. Mechanical or hand removal of Vegetation to within four (4) inches of grade shall be required.

1.3.11.1.4 The Contractor shall use a non-restricted, EPA-approved, biodegradable, non-bioaccumulating chemical herbicide with dye.

1.3.11.1.5 Herbicidal treatment shall include an EPA-approved biodegradable blue or green spray indicator dye at a very low dilution rate to indicate treated areas.

1.3.11.1.6 Before using herbicide for Vegetation removal, the Contractor shall provide the PM with the official MSDS sheet for approval and a written plan/list of all intended treatment areas at least two (2) weeks prior to the first application. Herbicide shall not be sprayed near Ponds or in swales leading to or away from Ponds. Non-selective herbicides shall not be used to eradicate large swaths of grassed areas.

1.3.11.1.7 When approved by the PM, the Contractor may use a Bush Hog to perform Fence Line Vegetation Removal and Cleanup.

1.3.12 Ornamental Plant and Shrub Assessment

Starting in January and before installation of new mulch, the Contractor shall assess the condition of all ornamental plants and shrubs located within decorative planter beds at all major Facilities.

The Contractor shall submit the plant condition assessment in writing to the PM, identifying plants or shrubs that are damaged or dying and may require replacement.

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1.3.13 Additional Labor Services

The Contractor shall provide additional manual labor Services as needed at any Facility listed in Attachment A – North Region 2026 and shall supply all labor, tools, fuel, and other resources when requested by the PM. Additional Labor Services may include, but are not limited to, removal of existing grasses, removal of Vegetation on Facility Fence Lines, removal and replacement of dead plants and shrubs, pruning and shaping shrubs and ornamental plants around Facility structures, cleaning onsite culverts and flower beds, manual weeding around Facility structures, additional mulching, and other similar Work. The number of hours and persons performing the Work shall be pre-approved by the PM. Additional Labor Services shall be provided at the per-person hourly rate specified in the Contractor's Bid. Partial-hour reimbursement shall be rendered in quarter-hour increments.

1.3.14 WRD Region Specific Guidelines

1.3.14.1 The Contractor shall not use herbicides to eradicate growth on Fixed Objects identified on the aerial photos, Site maps, Plans, or diagrams included in Attachment B – Group A Locations. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of repairs to Fixed Objects damaged by the Contractor.

1.3.14.2 The Contractor shall ensure tree trunks, shrubs, extraction wells, condensate traps, leachate wells, monitoring wells, gas wells, air lines, isolation valves, and other Fixed Objects are not damaged as a result of Mowing and Trimming activities. The Contractor shall be responsible for repair costs for any items damaged by its activities.

1.3.14.3 The Contractor shall trim grass/Vegetation around all stormwater structures entering or exiting Contract Pond areas, including headwalls, rip-rap, spillways, Pond retention grill plates or covers, and pipes. The Contractor shall remove and properly dispose of all waste materials generated by its operations and all other trash, refuse, and Debris present on Pond grates and orifices, Banks, and accessible Pond bottoms.

1.3.14.3.1 The use of any herbicide is strictly forbidden in and/or around Ponds, Pond slopes, and Pond beds.

1.3.14.3.2 The Contractor shall edge and trim along Fence Lines, buildings, roads, concrete ditches, driveways, sidewalks, stormwater structures including headwalls, rip-rap, spillways, pipes, and other adjacent structures and appurtenances.

1.3.14.3.3 The Contractor shall use good judgment to determine whether areas are suitable to mow without damaging ditches and top or side slopes. Wet areas shall not be mowed. Any areas damaged by the Contractor shall be restored to their original condition at no additional cost to the County.

1.3.14.3.4 The Contractor shall remove all conspicuous grass clippings from designated Field Mowing areas.

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1.3.14.3.5 The Contractor shall line-trim vegetation within a three (3)-foot radius of all spray heads and risers located within designated spray fields to ensure unobstructed sprinkler operation and adequate water distribution. This maintenance shall be performed at least once per month.

1.3.15 Debris and Litter Removal

The Contractor shall pickup, remove, and dispose of Debris and Litter within the maintained work site area(s) as follows:

1.3.15.1 Turf areas, landscape beds, property right-of-way areas, and areas around storm drains before mowing and prior to the completion of each service.

1.3.15.2 All sidewalks, pavement, parking areas, gutters, etc., shall be swept or blown clean after mowing.

1.3.15.3 Dirt and debris produced by edging or trimming shall be removed from adjacent hard surfaces, including but not limited to roadways, sidewalks, and parking areas.

1.3.15.4 The Contractor shall remove all pruning debris, branches, and byproducts from County property immediately following completion of Work.

1.3.15.5 Pruned palm material shall not be disposed of in any body of water.

1.3.15.6 The Contractor shall remove all Debris and Litter after each service; no Debris and Litter shall be mowed over. The Contractor shall not store or stockpile Debris and Litter within the project limits.

1.3.15.7 The Contractor shall transport Debris and Litter using equipment capable of preventing further distribution or loss of Debris and Litter along the roadway. The Contractor shall cover and secure all open top carriers with tarpaulins.

1.3.15.8 . Disposal of Debris and Litter shall be in accordance with applicable Federal, State, and Local Rules and Regulations.

1.3.15.9 The Contractor may be required to provide landfill receipts with invoice submittals.

1.3.16 Use of Chemicals

1.3.16.1 All chemical applications shall be in strict accordance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

1.3.16.2 All chemicals used shall be approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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1.3.16.3 Material Safety Data Sheets (SDS) shall be provided to the PM for all chemicals intended for use, prior to the commencement of the Contract and shall be updated as required during the term of the Contract.

1.3.17 Damages to Property

1.3.17.1 The Contractor shall carry out required Services with such care as to avoid damage to public and private property. Should damage to property occur by fault of the Contractor, the Contractor shall notify the PM immediately, but no later than twenty-four (24) hours after the damage occurs.

1.3.17.2 The Contractor shall, at their expense, repair as is practical any damages to the satisfaction of the County or other owner of damaged or destroyed property. In the case of failure by the Contractor to repair or restore property or otherwise rectify damages, the County may repair, replace, or otherwise restore property at its discretion. If no further Work is to be performed and no other payments to the Contractor are due or expected, the County may bill the Contractor for the cost of such repairs.

1.3.18 Post-Award Meeting

After award and prior to receiving authorization from the PM, the Contractor shall meet with Department personnel to discuss procedures, issues, and expectations regarding execution of the Work.

1.3.19 Invoicing

1.3.19.1 The Contractor shall furnish the PM, preferably by email, with complete itemized invoices for fully rendered services on a weekly basis. Invoices are to reflect the prices as outlined in the Bid Pricing Table, per line item. All invoices will be approved by PM with all support documentation attached prior to payment. Invoices shall comply with and contain details as required by the County’s Standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, as well as include the following additional information:

1.3.19.1.1 Applicable line-item number(s) for specific service(s) provided.

1.3.19.1.2 Location(s) of Work performed

1.3.19.1.3 Facility Service Area Number.

1.3.19.1.4 Date of Service.

1.3.19.1.5 Supporting documentation (e.g., Work Orders, inspection reports, disposal receipts/tickets, time sheets, or other required backup)

1.3.19.2 All invoices shall be submitted by the Tuesday following the completion of services.

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1.3.19.3 Failure to provide complete and accurate documentation may result in delay or rejection of payment.

1.3.20 County Sites

1.3.20.1 Location of Facilities: Facilities designated to receive Landscape Services are identified in the solicitation Bid Table.

1.3.20.2 Aerial Photos, Site Maps, Plans or Diagrams: Any aerial photos, Site maps, Plans, or diagrams included in Attachment B – Group A Locations are provided solely for purposes of Site location perspective. They do not necessarily represent actual or current Site conditions at the time the Contract is awarded. See Section 4.8.

1.3.20.3 Facility Quantities: Unit quantities identified in the Bid Table are estimates and actual quantities may vary during the Contract Period. The PM or Plant Manager may change quantities as needed. The County does not warrant that quantities will remain consistent during the Contract Period.

1.3.20.4 Service Days and Hours: Unless otherwise authorized in writing by the PM, Contractor access to each Facility shall be limited to:

1.3.20.4.1 Service Days: Monday through Friday.

1.3.20.4.2 Service Hours: 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time.

1.3.20.5 Additions and Deletions of Maintenance Areas: At the County's discretion, the County may add new maintenance areas, increase or decrease Service frequency, delete maintenance areas, discontinue specified Services, or resume Service to a previously terminated area at any time during the Contract Period. New maintenance areas/Services shall be evaluated and approved pursuant to Section 5.2, Changes in the Work/Change Orders/Modifications. The County and Contractor shall mutually determine the value per area based on awarded Bid pricing. Upon written request to add a new maintenance area or resume Service to a previously terminated area, the Contractor shall commence maintenance within 10 Days of an approved modification. Service to areas deleted or temporarily discontinued by the County may be resumed at the County's discretion.

1.3.20.6 Locked Facilities Access: The PM shall provide the Contractor with a master key permitting access to unmanned gated Facilities. The Contractor may duplicate the key at its expense and shall notify the PM, no later than the next billing cycle, of the number, location, and reason for any duplicate keys. At expiration or termination of the Contract, the Contractor shall return the original key and all duplicate keys to the PM with its final invoice.

1.3.20.7 Security of Facilities: After completing each scheduled visit to an unmanned Facility, the Contractor shall re-lock the gated entrance unless other authorized Hillsborough County personnel are present. Missing or damaged locks shall be reported to the PM as soon as practicable and within forty-eight (48) hours of discovery.

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Unless expressly authorized by the Contract or PM, the Contractor shall not enter non-contractually designated Facilities, buildings, structures, or fenced areas.

1.3.20.8 Sign-in Sheets: All Contractor employees shall sign in at the logbook at each Facility upon entering the Site and sign out upon leaving.

1.3.20.9 Quality Control: Completed Work is subject to inspection by the Plant Manager. Prior to leaving each manned Site, Contractor personnel shall check in with the Plant Manager to obtain review of their performance. Unsatisfactory Work identified while Contractor personnel are present shall be immediately reworked at no additional cost. Unsatisfactory Work identified after departure shall be reworked before the next scheduled visit at no additional cost. The Contractor shall maintain photographs of completed Work.

1.3.20.10 Language: The Contractor and its supervisory personnel shall be able to communicate in English or have personnel readily available to translate.

1.3.21 Contractor’s Work Schedule

1.3.21.1 The Contractor shall provide its anticipated Work schedule by email to the PM each Monday by 10:00 A.M. Eastern Time, identifying anticipated Work by area and crew for the upcoming week.

1.3.21.2 The Contractor shall provide a completed Work schedule from the previous week via email expeditiously upon completion of previous work.

1.3.21.3 All landscape maintenance Services shall be completed within the monthly billing cycle.

1.3.22 PM’s Authority.

1.3.22.1 In addition to any other authority granted under the Contract, the PM may:

1.3.22.1.1 Identify additional Facilities at any time pursuant to the conditions and prices provided herein.

1.3.22.1.2 Delegate all or any portion of such authority to another individual.

1.3.22.2 Review of Completed Work: The Contractor's Work shall be subject at any time to inspection by the PM for compliance with applicable regulations, permit requirements, and these Specifications. Unsatisfactory Work shall be corrected within forty-eight (48) hours of notification. The Contractor shall not invoice the County until all unsatisfactory Work has been corrected.

1.3.22.3 Plant Manager: The Plant Manager is the County's day-to-day operations manager at each Facility and may delegate all or any portion of his or her authority hereunder to another individual.

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1.3.23 Safety

The Contractor shall immediately report to the PM, but no later than twenty-four (24) hours after occurrence, all injuries and damage to public or private property resulting from Contractor performance and shall repair or replace any such damaged property.

1.3.24 Liability

1.3.24.1 The Contractor shall be responsible for interruption of normal County Facility operations and for all fines, penalties, and expenses imposed upon or incurred by either the County or Contractor where such interruption, fine, penalty, or expense results from failure of Contractor-supplied equipment or negligent or wrongful intentional acts or omissions of the Contractor or its owners, officers, employees, agents, or Subcontractors. The Contractor assumes all risk for its equipment parked on County Sites.

1.3.24.2 Tampering with or Work on County utility facilities is prohibited except with express written authorization from the County or during a County-recognized emergency. Any violation by the Contractor or its owners, agents, officers, employees, or Subcontractors may constitute a serious breach of Contract and may result in termination and debarment in accordance with County procedures.

2. SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2.1. Allowance

An Allowance, in the amount of $10,000.00, will be added to the total Bid amount for rental of heavy equipment necessary only to complete jobs related to clearing and grubbing.

Commodities and/or Services ordered through the Allowance are limited to the items/services listed above. Costs for the commodities/services must be pre-approved by the County and deemed to be fair and reasonable by County staff.

2.2. Basis for Award (County’s Best Interest)

Award will be made to the lowest, responsive and responsible Bidder meeting Specifications. If this Solicitation Document contains more than one line item, the County reserves the right to award by line item, by group/section, or by overall total net Bid price, whichever is determined to be in the County’s best interest.

2.3. Insurance, Contractor

See ITB-27-00027 Insurance Requirements Attachment for more specific details regarding the type of coverage and amounts required.

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2.3.1 No work for the County shall commence or occupancy of any of its property take place until the required Certificates of Insurance and copies of the policies, if requested, are received by the County and written Notice to Proceed is issued to the Contractor by the County.

2.3.2 The insurance coverages and limits required of the Contractor under the Contract Documents are designed to meet the minimum requirements of the County. They are not designed as a recommended insurance program for the Contractor. Contractor shall be responsible for the sufficiency of its own insurance program. Should the Contractor have any questions concerning its exposure to loss under the Contract Documents or the insurance coverages needed therefore, it should seek professional assistance.

2.3.3 If the insurance coverage initially provided by the Contractor is to expire prior to completion of the Work, renewal Certificates of Insurance shall be furnished to the County the ten (10) Days prior to expiration of current coverages.

2.3.4 Should the Contractor fail to maintain the insurance coverages required by the Contract Documents, the County may, at its option, either terminate this Agreement for default or procure and pay for such coverage, charge the Contractor for and deduct the costs of the same from payments due the Contractor. A decision by the County to procure and pay for such insurance coverage shall not operate as a waiver of any of its rights under the Contract Documents.

2.3.5 Failure of the Contractor to submit the required Certificates of Insurance within the times required by this Section may result in a delay in issuing the Notice to Proceed.