REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

#26-048

MAIL CENTER OPERATIONS

FOR

WAKE COUNTY

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Introduction

1.1 OBJECTIVE

1.2 SCOPE

1.3 SUMMARY

2 BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 ADDENDA

2.2 AWARD OF CONTRACT

2.3 BIDDER’S CONFERENCE

2.4 CERTIFICATION

2.5 DEFINITIONS

2.6 DISQUALIFICATION

2.7 EXECUTION OF CONTRACT

2.8 INTERPRETATION OF ESTIMATED QUANTITIES

2.9 SCHEDULE

2.10 SELECTION CRITERIA

2.11 STARTUP

2.12 TERM OF CONTRACT

2.13 TIME AND MANNER OF PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

2.14 TO BE CONSIDERED RESPONSIVE

2.15 WITHDRAWAL OF BIDS

3 General Conditions

3.1 ADVERTISING

3.2 AMENDMENTS

3.3 APPLICABLE LAW

3.4 ASSIGNMENT

3.5 CLAIMS

3.6 EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

3.7 ETHICS

3.8 E-VERIFY REQUIREMENTS

3.9 EXISTING UTILITIES AND STRUCTURES

3.10 FORCE MAJEURE

3.11 HOLIDAYS

3.12 INCLEMENT WEATHER

3.13 INDEMNIFICATION

3.14 INSURANCE

3.15 NNON-DDISCRIMINATION

3.16 NON-WAIVER

3.17 OTHER CONTRACTS

3.18 PERMITS, LICENSES AND FEES

3.19 RROYALTIES

3.20 SEVERABILITY

3.21 SUBSTANCE ABUSE

3.22 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

3.23 TERMINATION

3.24 TIME OF THE ESSENCE

3.25 WAIVER OF BREACH

3.26 IRAN DIVESTMENT & DIVESTMENT FROM COMPANIES BOYCOTTING ISRAEL 17

4 Security

4.1 CONTRACTOR'S ACCESS

4.2 DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION

4.3 KEY CONTROL

4.4 IDENTIFICATION

4.5 PARKING

5 Scope of work

5.1 COURIER SERVICE

5.2 PROCESSING SERVICE

6 Special Conditions

6.1 FUEL SURCHARGE/DISCOUNT

6.2 CONSUMER PRICE INDEX ADJUSTMENT FACTOR

6.3 STATEMENTS, INVOICES AND TIME SHEETS

6.4 SUPERVISION

6.5 TELEPHONE/E-MAIL SERVICE

7 Personnel

7.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR

7.2 CONTRACT MANAGER

7.3 DRIVERS AND PROCESSORS

7.4 TRAINING

7.5 UNIFORMS

7.6 RELIEF FOR ABSENTEEISM AND VACATION

7.7 ROUTE ASSIGNMENTS

7.8 REMOVAL OF PERSONNEL

8 Vehicles, Equipment and Supplies

8.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

8.2 MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

8.3 MINIMUM EQUIPMENT

8.4 ALTERNATE EQUIPMENT

9 Performance Standards

9.2 PERFORMANCE OF THE SERVICES

9.3 NON-PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES

9.4 NON-PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES/DEDUCTIONS FOR

10 Bid Forms

10.1 BID FORM 1

10.2 CURRENT CUSTOMERS

10.3 DISCONTINUED CUSTOMERS

10.4 CONFLICT OF INTEREST

10.5 ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF ADDENDA

10.6 BID SIGNATURE PAGE

11 EXHIBITS

11.1 SAMPLE CONTRACT

11.2 ROUTES

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 OBJECTIVE

To provide Wake County General Services Administration, hereinafter called “Wake County” is seeking competitive proposals from qualified vendors to provide contracted Mail Center Operations, which include Mail Couriers & Mailroom Processors.

1.2 SCOPE

This document covers contract requirements for all Wake County designated facilities. The specifications are prepared for a County contract for services at these locations, including operative and administrative matters.

1.3 SUMMARY

The requirements of this proposal are necessary to assure Wake County that the level of competence, performance, and professionalism of the contracted company's assigned personnel are at the level expected and specified.

Wake County is specifically seeking to contract with an organization that actively works toward comprehensive employee care, motivation, training, and education and that manages these activities with an exceptional level of professional diligence. Prospective Contractors are challenged to utilize imaginative, innovative techniques and ideas to enhance the professional level of activity and the motivation of the personnel assigned to Wake County facilities.

Contractors are invited to address this element of this request at length, indicating what creative concepts they can introduce that are beyond the requirements contained herein.

This Request for Proposal in its entirety and the complete documentation, including all responses, brochures and other documents, submitted by the potential Contractor, shall be incorporated into, and shall become a part of the final agreement with the Contractor selected by Wake County.

The requirements for proposal submission and the format to be followed are mandatory.

Proposals using alternative formats will not be considered. The conditions of the bidding will be determined by Wake County, who reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and waive irregularities in the bidding.

2 BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 ADDENDA

2.1.1 No interpretation of the meaning of the Proposal documents, nor correction of any apparent ambiguity, inconsistency or error therein, will be made to any bidder orally.

Every request for such interpretation or correction must be in writing, addressed to the Purchasing Director and must be delivered to the Purchasing Director at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the date and time set for receipt of bids in order to be given consideration.

2.1.2 All such interpretations will be in the form of written Addenda to the Proposal Documents.

Any such addenda will be delivered or mailed by the Purchasing Director to all prospective bidders not later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the date set for the receipt of bids.

It is the bidder’s responsibility to ascertain if any or all addenda have been received prior to bid being submitted.

2.1.3 In case any bidder fails to acknowledge receipt of any such addendum in the space provided in the Bid Form, its Bid will nevertheless be construed as though the Addendum had been received and acknowledged, and the submission of its Bid will constitute acknowledgment of the receipt of same.

2.1.4 No interpretation or correction except that which is provided in writing by the Purchasing Director will be binding. Prospective bidders are warned that no other source is authorized to give information concerning, or to explain or interpret the Proposal Documents.

2.2 AWARD OF CONTRACT

2.2.1 The Contract will not be awarded until the necessary investigations of the qualifications of the Bidders and the responsiveness of the Bids have been made. Such award will be made or all Bids rejected within sixty (60) days after the date set for the receipt of the bids.

2.2.2 The Contract will be awarded to the most qualified bidder submitting a responsive Bid for the Total Annual Amount Bid for all Bid Items in accordance with Bid form 1, unless all bids are rejected or unless such Bid is disqualified.

2.2.3 The Total Amount Bid shall be the correct summation of Bid form 1.

2.2.4 Wake County will consider Bid Item 2 (Additional Services) and Bid Item 3 (Fuel Surcharge) and Bid Item 4 (Telematic Surcharge) and Bid Item 5 Schedule of Employee Compensation/Benefits as additional criteria for selecting Contractors.

2.2.5 Wake County reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to award the contract through private negotiations, based on the best interest of Wake County.

2.2.6 Wake County will not be liable for any costs in connection with the presentation and submission of any Bid whether responsive or not responsive or submitted by any Bidder whether qualified or not qualified.

2.3 BIDDER’S CONFERENCE

**ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED FOR PROPOSAL TO BE CONSIDERED.** A mandatory bidders conference will be held for all interested Contractors. Contractors will have the option to attend the bidders conference virtually or in person. The in-person conference will be held at Wake County General Services 401 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC. ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED FOR

PROPOSAL TO BE CONSIDERED.**

2.4 CERTIFICATION

Each Bidder, by submitting a proposal, certifies that it has carefully examined all documents and is fully informed as to the scope of work and the operational activities of Wake County with regard to the performance of the services as defined in these documents.

2.5 DEFINITIONS

Whenever used in the Request for Proposal, Proposal Forms or in related documents, the terms or pronouns used shall be defined as follows:

2.5.1 Addendum - A modification of the Instructions; Proposal Form; General Conditions;

Special Conditions; Scope of Work or any other documents issued by Wake County and distributed to prospective Bidders prior to the date and time set for the receipt of the Proposals.

2.5.2 Bid - The written offer of a bidder to enter into the agreement with Wake County.

2.5.3 Bidder - Any individual, partnership, or corporation submitting a proposal in https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/243054327301751?p=cjVisW2S8tE6EybtUX accordance with the Instructions.

2.5.4 Bidding Instructions - The section describing the method of preparing and submitting bids and of awarding the contract together with other information of value to prospective bidders.

2.5.5 Bid Form - The Forms in the “Attachments” section on which the bids are submitted.

2.5.6 Client – Wake County GSA

2.5.7 Contractor – The Contractor contracted to provide services to Wake County.

2.5.8 Contract Administrator – The Service Coordinator for Wake County, or his designated person.

2.5.9 Invitation For Bids - The written notice by Wake County inviting the submission of bids for this contract.

2.5.10 Purchasing Director - The individual designated by Wake County and identified in the Invitation to bid or in an addendum authorized to solicit and receive or reject bids for contracts, to conduct the Bidder’s Conference, to receive and answer any questions regarding the bidding documents, and to issue any addenda to the bidding documents.

2.5.11 Request for Proposal - The written notice by Wake County inviting the submission of bids for a contract.

2.5.12 Wake County – Wake County

2.6 DISQUALIFICATION

2.6.1 Wake County may disqualify an otherwise qualified Bidder for any reason but not limited to:

2.6.2 Submission of more than one bid for the same services by an individual, firm, partnership, or corporation under the same or different names.

2.6.3 Evidence of collusion among bidders.

2.6.4 Previous participation in collusion while bidding to Wake County.

2.6.5 Omission or falsification of information provided on the Bidder's Questionnaire.

2.7 EXECUTION OF CONTRACT

2.7.1 The Contract shall not be binding upon Wake County until it has been executed by Wake County and a copy of such fully executed Contract is delivered to the Contractor.

2.7.2 Failure of the Bidder to whom the Contract has been awarded to execute and deliver the Contract, and the required evidence of insurance after the prescribed documents are presented for signature shall be just cause for the annulment of the award. Such forfeiture may have unfavorable consequences for future RFP submittals by the bidder.

2.8 INTERPRETATION OF ESTIMATED QUANTITIES

2.8.1 Wake County does not expressly or by implication represent that the actual quantities involved will correspond therewith, nor shall the bidder plead misunderstanding or deception because of such estimate of quantities. Payment will be made by Wake County for the actual quantities of such services performed at the unit bid prices in Bid Schedule 1.

2.8.2 Wake County shall have the unilateral discretion to increase or decrease the actual quantities and repetitions of such unit bid items in any way without invalidating any of the unit or lump sum bids.

2.9 SCHEDULE

Mail & Courier RFP Schedule

Opportunity Post Date April 20, 2026 Pre-Bid MeeƟng (In-Person or Online) April 28, 2026, 1:00 pm Last Day for QuesƟons concerning the RFP – QuesƟons to be submiƩed in the WC Bonfire Portal

May 1, 2026 by 5:00 pm

Addenda issued, if needed May 5, 2026 Proposals Due in the WC Bonfire Portal May 14, 2026 by 2:00 pm EvaluaƟon of Proposals and Interviews (if necessary) June 2026 AnƟcipated Start-up July 1, 2026

2.10 SELECTION CRITERIA

An evaluation review panel comprised of Wake County General Services staff and others will review the submitted proposals. The selection committee may choose to shortlist up to (3) three companies responding to this proposal for further consideration. Each company should be prepared to be interviewed and provide a presentation on their company and specifically, on their proposal. If the County is unable to successfully negotiate a contract with the highest ranked firm, negotiations will be initiated with the second ranked firm.

The panel will base their review and recommendation on the following criteria:

• Meet minimum qualifications relative to business and technical competence,

• Financial and historical experience as demonstrated by the Contractor’s submittal.

• The experience of the staff proposed to manage and operate this account and their experience on similar types of accounts.

• The proposed cost will not be used as the sole deciding factor but will be considered as a factor in the selection process.

• Contractor’s proposed plan for the management and operation of the account.

• Contractor’s ability to display the company safety policy and adherence to all NC OSHA standards and industry standards related to the work covered in this RFP.

Local presence and references of similar accounts

2.11 STARTUP

If awarded, Contract is expected to begin on or around July 1, 2026.

2.12 TERM OF CONTRACT

The term of this contract is one (1) year. Wake County may seek to extend the Contract for five

(5) additional one-year terms, said option(s) to be exercised at the sole discretion of Wake County. In the event Wake County elects to exercise any one or more of the said options, the Contractor will be notified in writing at least sixty (60) calendar days prior to the commencement of the additional one-year term involved, and the Contractor shall accept or reject, in writing, said extension.

2.13 TIME AND MANNER OF PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

The Proposal must be submitted in accordance with the following:

2.13.1 All Bid documents (Attachments 1 through 8) must be completed and submitted in the WC Bonfire Portal.

2.13.2 The Proposal must be received BEFORE 2:00 p.m. May 14, 2026

2.13.3 No late Proposals, regardless of delivery means, will be accepted.

2.13.4 Wake County is not responsible for late proposals due to any form of delivery.

2.13.5 Pricing sheet must be placed in the front of the bidder’s submittal.

2.14 TO BE CONSIDERED RESPONSIVE

2.14.1 Bidders must attend a mandatory bidder’s conference. Bidders will have the option to attend the bidders conference April 28, 2026 1:00 PM virtually or in person. The in-person conference will be held at Wake County General Services 401 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC. ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED FOR PROPOSAL TO BE CONSIDERED. Limit persons from your firm to no more than 3 attendees for in-person attendance.

2.14.2 The Bid must conform in all respects to the invitation to bid and to the bidding instructions. Wake County may reject any Bid that contains omissions, alterations of form, additions not called for, conditions, limitations, unauthorized altered bids, or other irregularities of any kind.

2.14.3 All Bid Items must be balanced and in proportion to each other and to the total amount Bid.

2.14.4 All individual Bid Items must be sufficient to allow The Contractor to perform the work.

2.14.5 To be considered qualified, a Bidder must provide information to demonstrate, to the satisfaction of Wake County, as a minimum, that;

2.14.5.1 The Bidder has or is able to obtain adequate financial resources to meet its contract obligations and the ability to maintain such resources for the initial term of the Contract plus the additional terms;

2.14.5.2 The Bidder has or is able to obtain adequate equipment and tools to perform the Services as required in the Proposal Documents or the financial resources to obtain such equipment and supplies.

2.14.5.3 The Bidder has adequate technical and managerial experience to perform the services as demonstrated by successful performance with clients of a similar size and type and by the submission of an adequate, balanced Bid.

2.14.6 Wake County may waive any informalities or irregularities of bids.

2.14.7 Wake County will not accept conditional bids.

2.15 WITHDRAWAL OF BIDS

2.15.1 No bid can be withdrawn after it is submitted unless the bidder makes the request in writing to the Wake County Designated Representative, and such request is received before the day and time set for receipt of bids.

2.15.2 No bid can be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the date and time set for receipt of bids, without being subject to forfeiture of the bid deposit.

3 GENERAL CONDITIONS

3.1 ADVERTISING

In submitting a bid, all Contractors agree not to use the results of the bid, Wake County name, logo, or any other representation of Wake County as part of any commercial advertising, client list, or promotional materials without the express prior approval of Wake County.

3.1 AMENDMENTS

3.1.1 Any changes, additions, deletions or modifications of any type to any Attachments; Scope

Of Work; Special Conditions or General Conditions that affect the Proposal price shall be made only by written Amendment including the change in the Proposal price and signed by the Contractor and Wake County.

3.1.2 Wake County shall have the unilateral right to make modifications in the Contract if such modifications do not affect the Contract price. Modifications include changing areas to the Contract by; adding, deleting, or changing usage or space; adding, deleting or changing Services; adding, deleting, or changing Special or General Conditions; or adding, deleting or changing Scope of work. Such changes shall be made only by written notification from the Contract Administrator to the Contract Manager.

3.1.3 Any changes in the Compensation to the Contractor resulting from such Change Orders shall be agreed upon by Wake County and the Contractor. Should the Contract Manager fail to protest such modifications within seven (7) calendar days after receipt of notice from the Contract Administrator, then the Contract Documents shall be amended without any change in Contract price.

3.2 APPLICABLE LAW

3.2.1 The validity, performance, interpretation and effect of this Contract shall be governed by local, federal, and state laws of the state where the facility is located.

3.2.2 The Contractor shall comply with the provisions of all applicable national, Federal State, county, and local laws, ordinances, regulations, and codes including, but not limited to the Contractor’s obligations as an employer with regard to health, safety and payment of its employees, and identification and procurement of required permits, certificates, approvals, and inspections in the Contractor’s performance of this Contract.

3.3 ASSIGNMENT

The Contractor shall not sublet, sell, transfer, assign, or otherwise dispose of this contract, or any portion thereof, or his right, entitlement or interest therein, without the express written consent of Wake County. There shall be no assignment or subcontract of this Contract by either party without the express written consent of the other, and any such attempted assignment or subcontract shall be void.

3.4 CLAIMS

The Contractor shall take every precaution necessary against injuring or damaging Wake County personnel or property, and shall, upon prompt written notice from Wake County, reimburse Wake County for such injury or damage. This section creates rights in addition to and shall in no way affect or diminish or impose any procedural restrictions on Wake County rights under any other section in the General Conditions or any other Contract Documents.

3.5 EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

The Contractor shall establish and maintain procedures and controls adequate to prevent its employment of any person who is not legally eligible for such employment under the laws of the State of North Carolina or United States.

3.6 ETHICS

3.6.1 The proper operation of democratic government requires that public officials and employees be independent, impartial and responsible to the people; that governmental decisions and policy be made in proper channels of the governmental structure; and that public office not be used for personal gain; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government.

3.6.2 In recognition of these goals, a code of ethics for County Contractors is hereby adopted.

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all such officials by setting forth those acts or actions that are incompatible with the best interests of the County.

3.6.3 Applicability of Ethics Policy - The provisions of this policy shall apply to all contracted employees.

3.6.4 Gifts and Favors - No Contractor shall offer any gift whether in the form of money, thing, favor, loan or promise, when it could reasonably be inferred that the gift was intended to influence or regard an official action on his part. Gifts, meals, other favors of an incidental nature and of minor value, or legitimate political contributions shall not be included in this policy.

3.7 E-VERIFY REQUIREMENTS

To ensure compliance with the E-Verify requirements of the General Statutes of North Carolina, all Contractors, including any subcontractors employed by the contract(s), by submitting a bid, proposal or any other response, or by providing any material, equipment, supplies, services, etc, attest and affirm that they are aware and in full compliance with Article 2 of Chapter 64, (NCGS 64-26(a)) relating to the E-Verify requirements.

3.8 EXISTING UTILITIES AND STRUCTURES

The Contractor shall establish and maintain procedures and controls adequate to protect Wake County property, adjacent property, and services.

3.9 FORCE MAJEURE

Neither party shall be responsible for delays or failures in performance resulting from acts beyond the reasonable control of such party. Such acts shall include but not be limited to acts of God, riots, acts of war, governmental regulations superimposed after the act, earthquakes, or other causes beyond the reasonable control of such party. In the event of any occurrence which a party considers may cause a delay or failure of performance, such party shall promptly notify the other party.

3.10 HOLIDAYS

Wake County observes thirteen (13) annual holidays. Contractor will not be required to perform services on these days and therefore will not bill Wake County for holidays.

3.11 INCLEMENT WEATHER

The Contractor will make every effort to provide service without interruption. In the event of severe weather and when weather conditions hinder safety, the Contractor will communicate to the Contract Administrator any intent to delay or cancel services. Wake County will calculate the impact of the interruption and, if another service provider is used, deduct charges from the invoice to cover expenses. No compensation will be made to the Contractor for loss of work due to inclement weather.

3.12 INDEMNIFICATION

3.12.1 Contractor to the fullest extent permitted by law, the Contractor shall indemnify and hold harmless Wake County, its commissioners, administrators, officers, employees and agents, from and against all claims, damages, losses and expenses, including but not limited to attorney's fees, arising out of or resulting from the performance of the Services under this Contract or lack thereof, provided that any such claim, damage, loss or expense (1) is attributable to bodily injury, sickness, disease or death, or to injury to or destruction of tangible property including the loss of use resulting there from, and (2) is caused in whole or part by any alleged or actual negligence or willful conduct of the Contractor, any subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them, or anyone for whose acts any of them are liable, regardless of whether or not it is caused in part by the negligence of a party indemnified hereunder. Such obligation shall not be construed to negate, abridge or otherwise reduce any other right or obligation of indemnity, which would otherwise exist as to any party or person, described in this Article.

3.12.2 The Contractor shall save harmless Wake County, its commissioners, administrators, officers, employees and agents, from and indemnify it and them against all claims, liens and suits for labor and material furnished by The Contractor. The Contractor shall defend on behalf of Wake County, its directors, officers, employees and agents, any suits jointly against The Contractor and Wake County, against Wake County alone, or against any director, officer, employee or agent of Wake County, for or arising out of any or all of the aforesaid causes. The Contractor shall be liable to Wake County for consequential damages, costs, loss of revenue or loss of profit resulting from Contractor's negligence in the performance of the Services.

3.12.3 In any and all claims against Wake County or any of its commissioners, administrators, officers, employees or agents by any employee of The Contractor, any Subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them or anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable, the indemnification obligation under this paragraph shall not be limited in any way by any limitation on the amount or type of damages, compensation or benefits payable by or for The Contractor or any damages, or any Subcontractor under worker's compensation acts, disability benefit acts or other employee benefit acts.

3.13 INSURANCE

3.13.1 The Provider shall obtain, at its sole expense, all insurance required in the following paragraphs and shall not commence work until such insurance is in effect and certification thereof has been received by Wake County's Finance Office. If any required insurance policy expires during the term of this agreement, Provider must provide a certificate of insurance to the Wake County Finance as evidence of policy renewal prior to such policy expiration.

Provider signature on this agreement indicates that Provider agrees to the terms of this insurance section and understands that failure to comply may result in cancellation of this agreement at Wake County’s option.

Workers' Compensation Insurance, with limits for Coverage A Statutory- for State of North Carolina and Coverage B - Employers Liability $500,000 each accident/disease each employee/disease policy limit.

Commercial General Liability - with limits no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, including contractual liability.

Commercial Automobile Liability, with limits no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage for any vehicle used during performance of contract services, including coverage for owned, hired, and non-owned vehicles.

Evidence of commercial automobile coverage is only necessary if vehicles are used in the provision of services under this Agreement.

Professional Liability Insurance, applicable to any professional services provided under this Contract with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per claim and $2,000,000 aggregate.

If any coverage is on a claims-made basis, Provider agrees to maintain a retroactive date prior to or equal to the effective date of this Agreement and to purchase and maintain Supplemental Extended Reporting Period or 'tail coverage' with a minimum reporting period of not less than three (3) years if the policy expires or is cancelled or non-renewed. If coverage is replaced, the new policy must include full prior acts coverage or a retroactive date to cover the effective dates of this Agreement. Provider shall provide a Certificate of Insurance annually to Wake County indicating any claims made coverage and respective retroactive date. The duty to provide extended coverage as set forth herein survives the effective dates of this Agreement.

All insurance companies must be authorized to do business in North Carolina and have an AM Best rating of “A-/VII” or better; or have reasonable equivalent financial strength to the satisfaction of the County's Finance Office. Proof of rating shall be provided to the county upon request.

Insurance with limits no less than those specified above shall be evidenced by a Certificate of Insurance issued by a duly authorized representative of the insurer and dated no more than thirty (30) days prior to the start date of the agreement. In the case of self-insurance, a letter of explanation must be provided to and approved by Wake County Risk Management.

The Provider shall be responsible for providing immediate notice of policy cancellation or non- renewal during the term of this Agreement to the Wake County Finance Office and for three years subsequent for any claims made coverage.

If Provider does not meet the insurance requirements specified above, alternate insurance coverage satisfactory to Wake County may be considered. Any requests for consideration of alternate coverage must be presented by Provider PRIOR TO provision of any services associated with this Agreement.

In the event that Provider uses subcontractors to perform any of the services under this Agreement, then and in that event, Provider shall contractually require such subcontractor(s) to meet all of the requirements of this section shall be filed by the Contractor without written permission from Wake County.

3.14 NON-DISCRIMINATION

The non-discrimination clause contained in Section 202, Executive Order 11246, as amended by executive order 11375, relative to Equal Employment Opportunity for all person without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and implementing of rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Labor shall be adhered to by all Contractors wishing to obtain contracts with Wake County .

3.15 NON-WAIVER

Failure of the Contract Administrator during the progress of the Services to discover or reject unacceptable Services, or Services not in accordance with the Contract, shall not be deemed an acceptance thereof nor a waiver of Wake County right to a proper performance of the Contract or any part of it by the Contractor.

3.16 OTHER CONTRACTS

Wake County shall have the right to award other contracts for additional Services, and The Contractor shall fully cooperate with such other Contractors, and shall fit its own schedule to that provided under other contracts. The Contractor shall have no claim against Wake County for additional payment due to delays or other conditions created by the operation of other Contractors. The Contract Administrator will decide the respective rights of the various Contractors in order to secure the completion of the Services.

3.17 PERMITS, LICENSES AND FEES

The Contractor shall procure all permits and licenses, pay all charges, taxes and fees and give all notices necessary and incidental to the due and lawful prosecution of the Services. All cost thereof shall be deemed to be included in the prices proposed for the Services.

3.18 ROYALTIES

The Contractor shall pay all royalties and licenses for any patented or copyrighted items used in the performance of the Services.

3.19 SEVERABILITY

In the event that any one or more of the provisions contained herein shall for any reason be held to be illegal or unenforceable in any respect under the laws of the jurisdiction governing the entire Contract, all other terms in this Contract will remain in full force. In the event that the stricken provision materially affects the rights, obligations, or duties of either party, the Client and the Contractor shall substitute a provision by mutual agreement that preserves the original intent of the parties as closely as possible under applicable law.

3.20 SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Employees serving hereunder, shall not use controlled substances not prescribed for them, nor illegal substances on or off Wake County's premises, and shall not use alcohol on Wake County's premises nor preceding their work shift when to do so would in any way affect the performance of the Services.

3.21 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

3.21.1 The Contractor shall not assign the Contract or any interest herein or any moneys due or to become due hereunder.

3.21.2 Wake County and any of its successors and assignees reserve the unconditional right to assign any or all of its rights, title, interest or obligations in and to this Contract for any or all locations covered by this Contract. Upon the effective date of any such assignment, the assignor shall be released from all rights, titles, interests, and obligations under that portion of the Contract assigned and the assignee shall assume all such rights, titles, interests, and obligations.

3.22 TERMINATION

3.22.1 Wake County shall have the right, at its sole option and discretion, to terminate this

Contract at any time, without any default on the part of the Contractor, by giving written notice to the Contractor at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of termination.

3.22.2 Wake County shall have the right to terminate this Contract immediately by Written Notice to the Contractor if the Contractor fails to execute the Services promptly and to Wake County satisfaction or fails to perform any obligation imposed by any provision of this Contract. In the event of termination for default, Wake County has against the Contractor all remedies provided by law and equity.

3.22.3 The Contractor, at its sole option and discretion, shall have the right to terminate this Contract at any time by giving written notice to Wake County at least sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of termination.

3.22.4 In the event of termination of this Contract by either party, the Contractor shall terminate all Services under this Contract to the extent and on the date specified in the Notice of Termination and until such date shall, to the extent stated in the Notice of Termination, do such Services and be compensated only for such Services as may be necessary as determined by the Contract Administrator to preserve the Services in progress and to protect the facilities of Wake County. Wake County may then proceed with the remainder of the Services in any lawful manner, which it may elect.

3.22.5 In the event of termination or reduction in the scope of Services by Wake County, Wake County shall pay the Contractor for all Services satisfactorily performed up to the effective date of termination or reduction in the scope of Services, less all partial payments made on account prior to the effective date of termination or reduction in the scope of Services.

3.22.6 Upon termination as above, the Contract Administrator shall make final determination of the amount due the Contractor for Services performed. Upon reduction in the scope of Services, the Contract Administrator and the Contractor shall negotiate in good faith to arrive at a revised Contract price.

3.23 TIME OF THE ESSENCE

3.23.1 For all requests made by Wake County pursuant to this Contract, time is of the essence. The acceptance of a late performance, with or without objections or reservations by Wake County, shall not waive the right to claim damages for such breach nor constitute a waiver of the requirements of timely performance of any obligations remaining to be performed.

3.23.2 If the Contractor fails to perform the Services in a timely manner, or if in the judgment of the Contract Administrator, the Contractor's methods are not adequate to assure completion of the Services per the allotted schedule, the Contract Administrator may direct the Contractor, at no additional cost to Wake County, to revise its work schedules to ensure completion of the Services.

3.23.3 If the Contractor is prevented from complying with stated time limits or time intervals by causes beyond its control, then the time limit or interval shall be extended for such reasonable time as Wake County may decide. The Contractor's request for such extension shall be made within five (5) calendar days from the beginning of causes therefore. In case of a continuing cause of delay, only one claim is necessary.

3.24 WAIVER OF BREACH

The waiver by Wake County of a breach of any provision of this Contract by the Contractor shall not operate or be construed as a waiver by Wake County of any subsequent breach by the Contractor.

3.25 IRAN DIVESTMENT & DIVESTMENT FROM COMPANIES BOYCOTTING ISRAEL

By signing this agreement; accepting this contract/purchase order; or submitting any bid, proposal, etc., vendors and contractors certify that as of the date of execution, receipt, or submission they are not listed on the Final Divestment List created by the NC Office of State Treasurer pursuant to NCGS 147 Article 6E, Iran Divestment Act, Iran Divestment Act Certification. Vendors and contractors shall not utilize any subcontractor that is identified on the Final Divestment List.

Any organization defined under NCGS 147-86.80(2), Divestment from Companies Boycotting Israel, shall not engage in business totaling more than $1,000 with any company/business, etc.

that boycotts Israel. A list of companies that boycott Israel is maintained by the NC Office of State Treasurer, pursuant to NCGS 147-86.81(a)(1). Any company listed as boycotting Israel is not eligible to do business with any State agency or political subdivision of the State.

4 SECURITY

4.1 CONTRACTOR'S ACCESS

4.1.1 The Contract Administrator shall designate access routes through buildings, entrance gates or doors, parking and storage areas, etc. and any imposed time limitations on the Contractor. The Contractor shall conduct its operations in strict observance of the access routes and other restricted areas as described above. All doors unlocked by the Contractor, both internal and external, will be locked by the Contractor before leaving any facility.

4.1.2 The Contractor shall ensure that under no circumstances shall any of the employees of the Contractor enter or move upon any area not authorized by the Contract Administrator.

4.1.3 Wake County shall give Contractor's personnel reasonable access to the areas where the Services are to be performed to the extent necessary or appropriate for the performance of services subject, however, to Wake County's security and safety rules and regulations. Wake County shall arrange for access to buildings, including the provision of keys or access cards as required for Contractor to perform Services.

4.1.4 The Contractor will be responsible for disarming and re-arming security controls if Contractor’s employees are in the building before County staff.

4.1.5 The Contractor shall ensure all employees shall prominently wear a Wake County I.D.

badge at all times while on the premises of Wake County. There is a $15.00 charge per badge issued.

4.2 DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION

4.2.1 The Contractor agrees that it will not during or after the term of this Contract disclose any proprietary information or confidential business information of Wake County, including but not limited to its costs, charges, operating procedures and methods of doing business to any person, firm, corporation, association or other entity or to the general public for any reason or purpose whatsoever without the prior written consent of Wake County. Such confidential or proprietary information received by the Contractor shall be used by it exclusively in connection with the performance of the Services.

4.2.2 The Contractor shall not issue or release for publication any articles or advertising or publicity matter relating to the Services performed by Contractor hereunder or mentioning or implying the name of Wake County, its subsidiaries or affiliated companies or their respective personnel, without the prior written consent of Wake County.

4.3 KEY CONTROL

4.3.1 The Contractor shall adequately secure the keys, access cards, other entry devices and codes provided by Wake County. The Contractor shall maintain a record of the key numbers issued to its employees.

4.3.2 The Contractor shall not duplicate and shall not allow such items to be duplicated or removed from the site of the Services.

4.3.3 The Contractor shall immediately report any such item that becomes lost, missing or stolen to the Contract Administrator or his designee and to the Wake County Security Center. Should the Contractor lose or have stolen any keys, entry cards, other entry devices or entry codes issued to the Contractor by Wake County, the cost of changing locks, keys, entry cards, other entry devices or entry codes to buildings, rooms or areas accessible by the lost or stolen keys will be deducted from the Contractor's invoice to Wake County for the Work performed under this Contract.

4.3.4 The Contractor shall physically present all keys, entry cards and other entry devices for verification upon request of the Contract Administrator.

4.3.5 The Contractor shall return all keys, access cards and other entry devices at the termination of this contract.

4.3.6 The Contractor shall return access cards and other entry devices at the termination of any employee.

4.4 IDENTIFICATION

4.4.1 The Contractor shall take all measures necessary to comply and to ensure the employees of Contractor comply with the security rules and regulations of Wake County and all applicable Federal, State and local rules, laws and regulations.

4.4.2 Additionally, prior to badges being issued, the Contractor shall submit a Wake County Badge Access Request form with required employee information and a background check to the extent allowed by law has been conducted on each employee prior to employment. A copy of each background check shall be provided to the Contract Administrator for review and approval prior to the employee working on Wake County premises. The background checks will provide written certification that each employee has no records of criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations. The Contractor shall provide written certification of any other information developed in the course of the Contractor's investigation of each employee. This certification shall include the full name, present telephone number, place of current residence, Social

Security verification, Criminal Background check, Social Security number address trace, motor vehicle report, National Criminal Sex Offender Database, Federal Criminal Court. The Contractor shall also submit employees’ names for background check by the Wake County Sheriff’s Office.

4.4.3 Contractor is responsible for informing Wake County of any arrests and/or criminal charges brought against any employee working for Wake County. Wake County reserves the right to review and determine if any action, up to and including termination is warranted by such arrests.

4.4.4 Upon termination or transfer of any employee of the Contractor, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Contract Administrator in writing of such termination or transfer, and shall immediately obtain and void all identification badges.

4.5 PARKING

4.5.1 Where parking is controlled by Wake County, access to parking facilities will be approved by the Contract Administrator. Many facilities have public parking available. The Contractor is responsible for any parking violations (or other traffic citations) incurred while performing the duties of this agreement.

5 SCOPE OF WORK

5.1 COURIER SERVICE

5.1.1 General

5.1.1.1 Each route has a defined start time and an average ending time. The ending time may vary depending upon the number of stops and unforeseen delays.

5.1.1.2 Special requests are considered those performed outside of the “routine” services.

5.1.1.3 All routine work will be performed during the daily route. If the Contractor decides to make a return trip for work that is considered routine, the Contractor will not charge Wake County for extra trips.

5.1.1.4 Routes are run according to GSA manifests and are subject to change to accommodate Wake County’s needs, new facilities, and operational effectiveness.

5.1.2 Manifests

5.1.2.1 A Manifest of routes will be supplied to the Contractor by the Contract

Administrator during the startup period.

5.1.2.2 Manifests are maintained for accuracy during the contract period by both the

Contractor and by the Contract Administrator.

5.1.2.3 Drivers may suggest changes in the manifest to the Contract Administrator. All manifest changes must be approved by the Contract Administrator.

5.1.2.4 The Contractor will supply their most current copies of the manifest to the Contract Administrator upon request to compare for accuracy.

5.1.3 Categories of Items Transported

5.1.3.1 Interoffice mail

5.1.3.2 US mail

5.1.3.3 Certified US Mail

5.1.3.4 Medical records

5.1.3.5 Pharmaceuticals

5.1.3.6 Special Delivery

5.1.3.7 Package delivery company

5.1.3.8 Miscellaneous as determined by Wake County

5.1.3.9 Laboratory Samples (BioHazard) Upon Special Request

5.1.4 Procedures

5.1.4.1 Inter-Office Mail – Mail is picked up in the GSA Mail Center and distributed throughout County facilities. Mail is also picked up at each facility and returned to the GSA Mail Center for sorting.

5.1.4.2 US Mail - Mail is picked up at various Post Offices. Mail is taken to the GSA Mail Center and then distributed throughout County facilities. Outgoing US Mail picked up throughout County facilities and returned to the GSA Mail Center for processing and metering. All US Postal regulations apply when transporting US Mail.

5.1.4.3 Certified US Mail -

5.1.4.3a Certified Mail from County Facilities -Certified Mail is picked up throughout County facilities. All Certified Mail is brought back to the GSA Mail Center for processing and metering.

5.1.4.3b Certified Mail from US Post office - Any Certified Mail picked up from the Post Office will be brought to the GSA Mail Center to be processed before being distributed throughout County facilities. Each piece of certified mail will be accompanied by a Signature page. Couriers are required to have the signature page signed before leaving the certified mail. Once signed, the signature page will be returned to the GSA Mail Center. All US Postal regulations apply when transporting US Mail.

5.1.4.3.c Certified Mail delivery to the US Post Office – Certified Mail being delivered to the US Post Office will be dropped off to the NEW BERN post office. The Courier will wait to receive the receipt tickets which will be returned to GSA the next business day.

5.1.4.4 Medical Records - Drivers assigned to clinic routes will pick up medical records in locked boxes and deliver them to various clinics. Return records are taken from clinics back to the origin.

5.1.4.5 Pharmaceuticals -

5.1.4.5.1 5.1.4.5a Routine Route: Drivers assigned to the clinic routes will pick up pharmaceuticals and/or related records in locked bags from the Public Health Center and/or outlying clinics. Pharmacy and Clinic Staff will designate the delivery destination on each bag.

5.1.4.5.2 5.1.4.5b Special Route: Wake County Public Health Pharmacy has Community Partners that rely on Wake County Pharmacy Services.

Couriers assigned to this special route will pick up pharmaceuticals in a locked bag from the Public Health Pharmacy and deliver to the designated site. While at the designated site, the Courier will receive Return records in a locked bag to be delivered back to the Public Health Pharmacy.

5.1.5 Work Order

5.1.5.1 A Work Order is a written order issued by the Contract Administrator directing the Contractor to perform Special Deliveries. Most work orders can be carried out as routine services during the workday. Special Requests are considered those performed outside of the “routine services”.

5.1.5.2 If work orders require extra time, the costs would be as stated in Bid Item 2.

5.2 PROCESSING SERVICE

5.2.1 General

5.2.1.1 Mail Processor has a defined work schedule of 8:30am - 2:00 pm daily, with a 1-hour lunch break.

5.2.1.2 If additional services are required by the Contract Administrator, Mail processors will be compensated for the additional hours per Bid Item 2.

5.2.1.3 Couriers shall process and sort mail during designated times after they return to the GSA Mail Center.

5.2.2 Procedures

5.2.2.1 Sort incoming mail from the Post Office as well as interoffice mail from various buildings brought in by couriers into sort bins assigned to each department.

5.2.2.2 Separate, prepare, and meter mail with the proper postage per USPS regulations.

5.2.2.3 Sort and prepare Certified Mail and generate reports on Certified Mail.

5.2.2.4 Sort and prepare mail and accompanying paperwork for the State Courier.

Deliver and pick up within the GSA building, interoffice mail, and any outgoing mail or packages.

6 SPECIAL CONDITIONS

6.1 FUEL SURCHARGE/DISCOUNT

6.1.1 A fuel surcharge will be permitted when the monthly average fuel prices meet or exceed the “surcharge point” established in Bid Item 3. ($1.00 above the June 2026 gasoline price)

6.1.2 A fuel discount will be deducted from invoices when the monthly average fuel prices meet or exceed the “discount Point” established in Bid Item 3. ($1.00 below the current average) The fuel discount will equal the fuel surcharge amount in Bid Item 3.

6.1.3 Fuel surcharges and discounts are applied on a month-to-month basis and only when the monthly average fuel prices meet or exceed the criteria described in this section. Each month’s invoice will include the Fuel Surcharge or Discount solely determined by the most recent gas price data referenced below.

6.1.4 Fuel surcharges will be billed as a separate charge from other services.

6.1.5 The Contractor will be responsible for accurately justifying the fuel surcharge.

6.1.6 For this agreement, the average monthly prices of fuel posted on the “Energy Information Administration” web site will be used.

6.1.7 The price of “regular” gasoline in the “Central Atlantic, Conventional Areas” will be used as the fuel price index for this proposal. Data is available on the EIA site on this page:

http://www.eia.gov/dnav/pet/pet_pri_gnd_dcus_r1y_m.htm (See example below)

6.2 CONSUMER PRICE INDEX ADJUSTMENT FACTOR

6.2.1 Contractor may request an annual contract increase. The request must be requested by November 15 of each year. The basis of this increase must be tied directly to the current Consumer Price Index (CPI). Contractor must provide documentation supporting requested raise. Based on information provided by the Contractor, it will be the decision of the Client to determine if an increase will occur and the amount of the increase. If approved, the contract increase would not occur until July 1 in the following year. The first year an increase will be considered is July 1, 2027.

https://beta.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/CUUR0300SEMC

6.2.2 The Consumer Price Index (CPI) Adjustment Factor shall be calculated by using above database (CPI for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U); Professional services in South urban, all urban consumers, not seasonally adjusted.) The maximum increase in any one year is limited to the CPI increase or 3 percent, whichever…