2-RFP 26-02 Internal Auditor Services.pdf

The School District of

St. Lucie County Purchasing Department

9461 Brandywine Lane Port St Lucie, FL 34986

Voice (772)429-3980

Request for Proposal

(RFP)

REQUIRED RESPONSE FORM

Failure to submit the signed Required Response Form with the proposal will be cause for non-acceptance of the proposal and the proposal shall be considered non-responsive

Page 1 of 40 pages PROPOSALS WILL BE OPENED November 4, 2025 - 3:00 pm and may not be withdrawn within 90 days after such date and time.

PROPOSAL NO. 26-02

MAILING DATE:

October 8, 2025 Internal Auditor Services

FEDERAL EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER OR S.S. NUMBER:

VENDOR NAME

POSTING OF PROPOSAL TABULATIONS

Proposal tabulations with recommended awards will be posted for review by interested parties at the location where proposals were opened and will remain posted for a period of 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3), Florida Statutes, shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes. Proceedings subject to Section 120.57(3)(c), Florida Statutes are subject to Florida Administrative Code 6C5-6.008(2)(f).

VENDOR MAILING ADDRESS

CITY-STATE-ZIP

AREA

CODE

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

TOLL-FREE NUMBER:

FAX NUMBER:

INTERNET EMAIL ADDRESS:

I certify that this proposal is made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation firm, or person submitting a proposal for the same commodities/ services, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. I agree to abide by all conditions of this proposal and certify that I am authorized to sign this proposal for the proposer and that the proposer is in compliance with all requirements of the Request for Proposal, including but not limited to, certification requirements. In submitting a proposal, the proposer offers and agrees that if the proposal is accepted, the proposer will convey, sell, assign, or transfer to the School District of St. Lucie County all rights, title and interest in and to all causes of action it may now or hereafter acquire under the Anti-trust laws of the United States and the State of Florida for price fixing relating to the particular commodities or services purchased or acquired by the School District of St. Lucie County. At the School District’s discretion, such assignment shall be made and become effective at the time the School District tenders final payment to the proposer.

Failure to submit the signed Required Response Form with the proposal will be cause for non-acceptance of the proposal and the proposal shall be considered non-responsive.

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

TYPED NAME OF PERSON SIGNING

Public Domain I acknowledge that all information contained herein is part of the public domain as defined in the Public Records Act, Chapter 119, F.S.

Proposal Certification I hereby certify that I am submitting the following information as my company's proposal and understand that by virtue of executing and returning with this proposal this REQUIRED RESPONSE FORM, I further certify full, complete and unconditional acceptance of the contents inclusive of this Request for Proposal, and all appendices and the contents of any Addendum released hereto. REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

This RFP, General Conditions, Instructions to Bidders, Special Conditions, Specifications, Addenda, and/or any other pertinent documents form a part of this proposal and by reference are made a part thereof.

PURPOSE: It is the purpose and intent of this RFP to secure bids for item(s) and/or services as listed herein for the School District of St. Lucie County, Florida, hereinafter referred to as the District.

SEALED BIDS: Sealed bids will be received via the Purchasing Department bid portal until the date and time as indicated above. Proposals will be opened publicly in the Purchasing Department and all bidders and general public are invited to attend. All proposals shall be submitted via the Bonfire portal (instructions provided in following sections). It is the sole responsibility of the bidder to ensure their proposal is uploaded on or before the closing date and hour as shown above.

BOARD'S ACCEPTANCE: Unless otherwise specified herein, the bidder will allow a minimum of ninety (90) days from the last date for receiving of proposals for acceptance of its proposal by the Board.

AWARDS: In the best interest of the District, the School Board reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive any irregularity or minor technicalities in proposals received; to accept any item or group of items unless qualified by bidder; to acquire additional quantities at prices quoted on this invitation unless additional quantities are not acceptable, in which case the proposal sheets must be noted . All awards made as a result of this proposal shall conform to applicable Florida Statutes.

Request for Proposal Internal Auditor Services School District of St. Lucie County RFP # 26-02

GENERAL CONDITIONS, INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION FOR BIDDERS

SEALED PROPOSALS: All proposals are subject to all the conditions specified herein and any addenda issued thereto. Any failure on the part of the bidder to comply with the specifications, terms and conditions of this RFP shall be reason for termination of contract.

1. EXECUTION OF RFP: RFP must contain a signature of an authorized representative in the space provided above. Failure to properly sign proposal shall invalidate same, and it shall not be considered for award. Corrections must be initialed by the person signing the proposal. Any corrections not initialed will not be tabulated. The original proposal conditions and specifications cannot be changed or altered in any way. Altered proposals may not be considered. Clarification of proposals submitted shall be in letter form, signed by the bidders and attached to the proposal.

2. NO BID: If not submitting a bid, respond by returning the enclosed

"Statement of No Bid" form and explain the reason. Note: A bidder, to qualify as a respondent, must submit a "no bid" and same must be received no later than the stated proposal opening date and hour.

3. PRICES QUOTED: Deduct trade discounts and quote firm net prices. Give both unit price and extend total. Prices must be stated in units of quantity specified in proposal specifications. In case of discrepancy in computing the amount of the proposal, the UNIT PRICE quoted will govern. All prices FOB destination, freight prepaid (unless otherwise stated in special conditions). Discounts for prompt payment: Award, if made, will be in accordance with terms and conditions stated herein. Each item must be bid separately and no attempt is to be made to tie any item or items in with any other item or items. Cash or quantity discounts offered will not be a consideration in determination of award of proposal(s). If a bidder offers a discount, it is understood that a minimum of 30 days will be required for payment, and the discount time will be computed from the date of satisfactory delivery at place of acceptance and receipt of correct invoice at the office specified.

A. TAXES: The School District of St. Lucie County, is exempt from any taxes imposed by the State and/or Federal Government.

State Sales Tax Exemption Certificate No. 85-8015082026C-5 and Federal Employer Tax No. 59-6000832 appears on each purchase order. This exemption does not apply to purchase of tangible personal property made by contractors who use the tangible personal property in the performance of contracts for the improvements of School District-owned real property as defined in Chapter 192 of the Florida Statutes.

B. MISTAKES: Bidders are expected to examine the specifica-tions, delivery schedules, proposal prices and extensions, and all instructions pertaining to supplies and services. Failure to do so will be at bidder's risk.

C. Bidder warrants by virtue of bidding that prices shall remain firm for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of Board approval or time stated in special conditions.

D. USE OF OTHER CONTRACTS: The District reserves the right to utilize any other District contract, any State of Florida Contract, any contract awarded by any other city or county governmental agencies, any other school board, any other community college/state university system cooperative bid agreement, or to directly negotiate/purchase per School Board policy and/or State Board Rule 6A-1.12(6) in lieu of any offer received or award made as a result of this proposal, if it is in the best interest to do so. The District also reserves the right to separately bid any single order or to purchase any item on this proposal if it is in its best interest to do so.

E. CONDITIONS AND PACKAGING: It is understood and agreed that any item offered or shipped as a result of this proposal shall be new (current production model at the time of the proposal). All containers shall be suitable for storage or shipment, and all prices shall include standard commercial packaging.

UNDERWRITERS' LABORATORIES: Unless otherwise stipulated in the proposal, all manufactured items and fabricated assemblies shall be UL listed or re-examination testing where such has been established by UL for the items offered and furnished.

4. DELIVERY: Unless actual date of delivery is specified, show number of days required to make delivery after receipt of purchase order in space provided. Delivery time may become a basis for making an award (See Special Conditions). Delivery shall be within the normal working hours of the user, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

5. BRAND NAMES: Use of a brand name, trade name, make, model, manufacturer, or vendor catalog number in specifications is for the purpose of establishing a grade or quality of material only. it is not the District's intent to rule out other competition, therefore, the phrase OR ACCEPTABLE EQUAL is added. However, if a product other than that specified is bid, it is the vendor's responsibility to submit with the proposal brochures, samples and/or detailed specifications on items bid. The District shall be the sole judge concerning the merits of proposal submitted.

Bidder shall indicate on the proposal form the manufacturer's name and number if bidding other than the specified brands, and shall indicate ANY deviation from the specifications as listed.

Other than specified items offered requires complete descriptive technical literature marked to indicate detail(s) conformance with specifications.

6. QUALITY: The items bid must be new and equal to or exceed specifications. The manufacturer's standard guarantee shall apply. During the guarantee period the successful bidder must repair and/or replace the unit without cost to the District with the understanding that all replacements shall carry the same guarantee as the original equipment. The successful bidder shall make any such repairs and/or replacements immediately upon receiving notice from the District.

7. SAMPLES, DEMONSTRATIONS AND TESTING:

A. Samples of items, when required, must be furnished free of expense and if not destroyed, will upon request, be returned at the bidder's expense. Request for the return of the samples must be indicated on his or her proposal. Each individual sample must be labeled with bidder's name, proposal number and item number. Failure of bidder to either deliver required samples or to clearly identify samples as indicated may be reason for rejection of the proposal. Unless otherwise indicated, samples should be delivered to the Purchasing Department, School District of St. Lucie County.

B. When required, the District may request full demonstrations of any units bid prior to the award of any contract.

C. Items may be tested for compliance with specifications under the direction of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, or an independent testing laboratory.

Bidders shall assume full responsibility for payment for any and all charges for testing and analysis of any materials offered or delivered that do not conform to the minimum required specifications. Bidder's disposition of all items delivered in this category must be at no expense to the District.

8. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE: The successful bidder shall be responsible for delivery of items in good condition at point destination. Bidder shall file with the carrier all claims for breakage, imperfections, and other losses, which will be deducted from invoices. The District will note, for the benefit of successful bidder, when packages are not received in good condition. In the event the material and/or services supplied to the District is found to be defective or does not conform to specifications, the District reserves the right to cancel the order upon written notice to the seller and return the product to seller at the seller's expense.

9. DEFAULT PROVISION: In case of default by the bidder or contractor, the District may procure the articles or services from other sources and hold the bidder or contractor responsible for any excess costs incurred thereby.

10. COPYRIGHTS OR PATENT RIGHTS: Bidder warrants that there has been no violation of copyrights or patent rights in manufacturing, producing or selling the goods shipped or ordered as a result of this proposal. Seller agrees to hold the purchaser harmless from any and all liability, loss or expense occasioned by any such violation.

11. MANUFACTURER'S CERTIFICATION: The District reserves the right to request from bidders separate manufacturer certification of all statements made in the proposal.

12. PROPOSAL ABSTRACTS: Bidders desiring a copy of bid tabulation may request it by enclosing a self-addressed, stamped envelope with bid.

13. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY: Vendor, as a result of award of this proposal, delivering any toxic substances item as defined in Florida Statute L442.102(21) shall furnish to the Purchasing Department, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The material safety data sheet shall be provided with initial shipment and shall be revised on a timely basis as appropriate.

The MSDS must include the following information:

A. The chemical name and the common name of the toxic sub-stance.

B. The hazards or other risks in the use of the toxic substance, including:

(1) The potential for fire, explosion, corrosively and reactivity;

(2) The known acute and chronic health effects of risks from exposure, including the medical conditions which are generally recognized as being aggravated by exposure to the toxic substance; and

(3) The primary routes of entry and symptoms of overexposure.

C. The proper precautions, handling practices, necessary personal protective equipment, and other safety precautions in the use of or exposure to the toxic substances including appropriate emergency treatment in case of overexposure.

D. The emergency procedure for spills, fire, disposal and first aid.

E. A description in lay terms of the known specific potential health risks posed by the toxic substance intended to alert any person reading this information.

F. The year and month, if available, that the information was compiled and the name, address and emergency telephone number of the manufacturer responsible for preparing the information.

Any questions regarding this requirement should be directed to:

Department of Labor and Employment Security, Bureau of Industrial Safety and Health, Toxic Waste Information Center, 2551 Executive Center Circle West, Tallahassee, FL 32301-5014, Telephone 1-800-367-4378.

14. OSHA: The bidder warrants that the product/services supplied to the School District of St. Lucie County shall conform in all respects to the standards set forth in the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1970, as amended, and the failure to comply with this condition will be considered as a breach of contract.

15. ANTI-DISCRIMINATION: The bidder certifies that they are in compliance with the non-discrimination clause contained in Section 202, Executive Order 11246, as amended by Executive Order 11375 relative to equal employment opportunity for all persons without regard to race, color religion, sex or national origin.

16. ADVERTISING: In submitting a proposal, bidder agrees not to use the results therefrom as a part of any commercial advertising without prior approval of the School District.

17. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The award hereunder is subject to the provisions of Chapter 112, Florida Statutes. All bidders must disclose with their proposal the name of any officer, director or agent who is also an employee of the School Board of St. Lucie County. Further, all bidders must disclose the name of any Board employee who owns, directly or indirectly, an interest of 5% or more in the bidder's firm or any of its branches.

18. DISPUTES: In case of any doubt or difference of opinion as to the items to be furnished hereunder, the decision of the District shall be final and binding on both parties.

19. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS: Federal, state, county, and local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations that in any manner affect the items covered herein apply. Lack of knowledge by the bidder will in no way be a cause for relief from responsibility.

20. SIGNED PROPOSAL CONSIDERED AN OFFER: This signed proposal shall be considered an offer on the part of the bidder, which offer shall be deemed accepted upon approval by the Board. In case of a default on the part of the bidder after such acceptance, the District may take such action as it deems appropriate including legal action for damages or specific performance.

21. LIABILITY, INSURANCE, LICENSES, AND PERMITS: Where bidders are required to enter or go onto School District property to deliver materials or perform work or services as a result of proposal award, the bidder will assume the full duty obligation and expense of obtaining all necessary licenses, permits and insurance. Bidder shall be liable for any damage or loss to the District incurred by bidder, bidder's employees, licenses of the bidder or agent or any person the bidder has designated in completion of his or her contract as a result of their proposal; further bidder shall be liable for all activities of bidder occasioned by performance of this bid.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the liability herein shall be limited to ten million dollars ($10,000,000) and the bidder recognizes that and covenants that it has received consideration for indemnification provided herein.

22. SPECIFICATIONS: Any omissions of detail specifications stated herein that would render the materials/service from use as specified will not relieve the bidder from responsibility.

23. BID BONDS AND PERFORMANCE BONDS: Bid bonds, when required, shall be submitted with the proposal in the amount specified in Special Conditions. Bid bonds will be returned to unsuccessful bidders. After award of contract, the District will notify the successful bidder to submit a performance bond in the amount specified in Special Conditions. Upon receipt of the performance bond, the bid bond will be returned to the successful bidder.

24. PAYMENT: Payment will be made after the items/services awarded to a vendor have been received/completed, inspected and found to comply with award specifications, free of damage or defect and properly invoiced.

25. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Any and all Special Conditions that may vary from these General Conditions.

26. JESSICA LUNSFORD ACT: The Vendor certifies it will comply with the requirements of the Jessica Lunsford Act (Section 1012.465, Florida Statutes) in regards to fingerprinting and level 2 background screenings of all employees and any subcontractors employees who will have access to any District school or property when students may be present, or will have direct contact with any student; or have access to or control of school funds. Vendor’s failure to comply with this requirement will constitute a material breach of contract.

26. LEGAL COMPLIANCE: The Vendor guarantees that the services to be performed and the goods to be provided herein, shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, regulations, orders and decrees, including all provisions listed in Appendix II to Part 200 of the CFR, and without limitation such of the following acts as may be applicable: Federal Consumer Product Safety Act, Federal Fair Labor Standards Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act, Buy American, Energy Policy and Conservation, Federal Hazardous Substances Labeling Act, Byrd Anti-lobbying, Federal Flammable Fabrics Act, Clean Air & Water Pollution Acts, Copeland Anti- Kickback, Davis Bacon Act and any applicable environmental regulations USDA purchase requirements also include 2 CFR 200.318(d), 7 CFR 3016.36(b)(4) and 2 CFR 200.321.

28. The purchasing agreements and state term contracts available under s. 287.056 have been reviewed.

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION

2. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

3. REQUIRED PROPOSAL FORMAT

4. AWARD

5. CONTRACT PERIOD

6. PAYMENT TERMS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF SERVICES

ATTACHMENT A - DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT B - JESSICA LUNSFORD ACT COMPLIANCE AGREEMENT

ATTACHMENT D- GREEN PROCUREMENT - ELECTRONIC PURCHASE ORDER PROCESS

ATTACHMENT E - INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT

ATTACHMENT F - PROJECT MANAGER CONTACT INFORMATION

ATTACHMENT G -STATEMENT OF “NO” RESPONSE

ATTACHMENT H – DEFINITIONS

ATTACHMENT I - REFERENCE QUESTIONNAIRE

ATTACHMENT J - PROPOSAL QUOTATION FORM

ATTACHMENT K – PROPOSER’S STATEMENT OF PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS

ATTACHMENT L – SCRUTINIZED COMPANY CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT M – STATEMENT OF CAPABILITY

ATTACHMENT N - VENDOR AFFIDAVIT REGARDING

RFP CHECKLIST

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Purpose

St. Lucie County Public Schools requests Internal Auditor services as defined in Florida Statutes 1001.42(12)(l).

1.2. Minimum Qualifications

In order to be considered for evaluation, the proposers shall demonstrate sufficient capacity, resources and experience to provide complete professional auditing services as required by the District. Any proposer that fails to meet all of the following minimum criteria shall be noted as “non-responsive” and will not be evaluated/scored.

At a minimum, each proposer shall provide sufficient documentation to verify that:

a. The firm is a Certified Public Accounting firm in accordance with Section 473.309, Florida Statutes

b. The firm is currently licensed under Section 473.3101, Florida Statutes

c. The firm has a current license number issued by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation

d. The firm has conducted audits for at least three (3) public entities (including at least one [1]

Florida school district) within the immediate past four (4) years).

2. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

2.1. Authorized SLPS Representative/Public Notices/SLPS Discretion

Proposer’s response to this RFP must be submitted electronically through Bonfire. Any inquires by Proposer during this RFP process must be submitted in writing within Bonfire. SLPS will consider only those inquiries submitted in writing within Bonfire on or before the time specified in Section 2.2, “RFP Schedule” for the submittal of written inquires prior to the Proposal opening time and date. To the extent SLPS determines, in its sole discretion, to respond to inquiry, such response will be made in writing and posted to Bonfire at https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities and on the SLPS Purchasing website.

Kim Albritton, Director of Financial Operations St. Lucie Public Schools Purchasing Department 9461 Brandywine Lane Port St Lucie, FL 34986 kimberly.albritton@stlucieschools.org Ph: 772-429-3980

Solicitation responses, tabulation and award will be made public in accordance with Florida Statute

119.071 and Florida Statute 286.0113.

https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

The Board reserves the right to waive any formalities in any proposal and to accept any proposal which it considers to be in the best public interest, and to reject any or all proposals. The decision of the

BOARD SHALL BE FINAL.

2.2. Proposed RFP Schedule

Listed below are the dates and time by which stated actions must be taken or completed. If SLPS determines, in its sole discretion, that it is necessary to change any of these dates and times, SLPS may issue an addendum to the RFP. All listed times are eastern standard times.

Date/Time Action

October 8, 2025 RFP release date

October 22, 2025, 3:00 PM Cut-off for Requests for Clarification and Technical Questions

November 4, 2025, 3:00 PM Proposals Due

2.3. Proposer Inquires

2.3.1. SLPS is not liable for interpretations/misinterpretations or other errors or omissions made by the

Proposer in responding to this RFP. The Proposer shall examine this RFP to determine if SLPS’s terms and conditions and requirements are clearly stated. If, after examination of the various terms and conditions and requirements of this RFP, the Proposer believes there are any terms and conditions or requirements which remain unclear or which restrict competition, the Proposer may request, in writing, that SLPS clarify the terms(s) and condition(s) and requirement(s) specified by the Proposer. The Proposer must provide the Section(s), Subsection(s), Paragraph(s), and page number(s) that identify the conditions or requirements questioned by the Proposer. Requests for clarification and technical questions to this RFP must be received by SLPS not later than the date shown in Section 2.2, entitled “Proposed RFP Schedule”, for the submittal of written inquires. The Proposers’ failure to request clarification and submit questions by the date described above shall be considered to constitute the Proposers’ acceptance of all of SLPS’s terms and conditions and requirements. SLPS shall issue an addendum reflecting the questions and answers to this RFP, if any, which shall be sent to all Proposers as specified in Section 2.1.

2.3.2. Any inquiries from the Proposer concerning this RFP shall be submitted in writing to the individual identified in Section 2.1. All inquiries must be sent by email (kimberly.albritton@stlucieschools.org) and will be answered in an addendum that will be issued no later than seven (7) days before the due date. Inquiries must be legible and concise and must clearly identify the Proposer who is submitting the inquiry. Question MAY NOT be sent to any other employees.

2.3.3. Respondents to this solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the agency posting the notice of intended award, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and State holidays, any employee or officer of the School Board of St. Lucie County concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the authorized SLPS representative identified in section

2.1. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response.

mailto:kimberly.albritton@stlucieschools.org

2.4. Pre-Proposal Meeting

None

2.5. Proposal Due Date

Proposer’s response to this RFP shall be prepared in accordance with Section 3.0, Proposal Response Format and the format contained with Bonfire Procurement Portal. Bids must be submitted electronically thru Bonfire. The St Lucie Public Schools bid portal is located at the following address: https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/opportunities, no later than the date and time shown in Section 2.2, according to the time stamp located in SLPS’s Purchasing Department. Proposals or amendments to proposals that arrive after the date and time shown in Section 2.2 will not be accepted or considered for any reason whatsoever. Telephone, including facsimile and mail proposals shall not be accepted at any time. At the date and time shown in Section 2.2, all timely proposals will be opened for the sole purpose of recording the names only of the Proposers submitting electronic proposals.

Sealed proposals will be accepted up to, and no proposals may be withdrawn after, the deadline for proposal submission time and date shown above.

Your submission must be uploaded, submitted, and finalized prior to the Closing Time listed in Section 2.2. We strongly recommend that you give yourself enough time and at least ONE (1) day before Closing Time to begin the uploading process and to finalize your submission. The District will not accept late submission due to technological difficulties.

Uploading large documents may take significant time, depending on the size of the file(s) and your Internet connection speed. You will receive an email confirmation receipt with a unique confirmation number once you finalize your submission.

Minimum system requirements: Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox. JavaScript must be enabled. Browser cookies must be enabled. St. Lucie School District uses a Bonfire portal for accepting and evaluating proposals digitally. Please contact Bonfire at Support@GoBonfire.com for technical questions related to your submission. You can also visit their help forum at https://bonfirehub.zendesk.com/hc

2.6. Proposal Opening Date

Proposals will be opened in the Business Services conference room located at 9461 Brandywine Lane, Port St Lucie, FL 34986, on the date and at the time shown in Section 2.2, “Proposed RFP Schedule”. All timely proposals will be opened for the sole purpose of recording the names only of the Proposers submitting electronic proposals. Please see Purchasing Department website for posted public meeting notice.

2.7. Evaluation Criteria

The Selection Committee will evaluate the proposals to determine who to shortlist based upon the

Evaluation Criteria below. Once firms are shortlisted the Board has the option to select a firm or may elect to interview firms and then make the final selection.

https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/opportunities https://bonfirehub.zendesk.com/hc

The following Criteria are intended to provide the Selection Committee with information regarding the qualifications of each proposing services firm. The submittal shall be organized and shall respond to each of the criteria in the same order listed below.

An adjectival scoring system shall be applied throughout the evaluation process for the evaluation of the written responses and the oral presentation/informal interviews. A score of 0 is the least favorable and a score of 10 is the most favorable in all sections.

The Firm’s response will be scored by Evaluation Committee members in accordance with the following scale:

0 Unsatisfactory: Not responsive to the question(s).

Below Minimum Standards: Minimal Response to the question well below acceptable standards.

Below Minimum Standards: Somewhat responsive to the question but well below acceptable standards

Marginal: Minimal acceptable performance standards and somewhat responsive to the questions.

4 Marginal: Minimal acceptable performance standards and responsive to the questions.

5 Satisfactory: Meets performance expectations and responsive to the question.

6 Satisfactory: Meets performance expectations, effective and responsive to the question.

7 Above Satisfactory: Meets expectations and slightly exceeds expectations.

8 Above Satisfactory: Meets expectations and exceeds expectations.

9 Above Satisfactory / Exceeds Expectations for effectiveness and responsiveness to question.

10 Exceeds Expectations for effectiveness, performance, and responsiveness to question.

NOTE: The Evaluation Committee member’s score will be multiplied by the “weighted value” assigned to the different sections listed here, resulting in the total score for that section.

Firms are required to include requested information in EACH section listed below (even if duplicate information). Each section will be scored individually and shall not reference other sections of the proposal.

ITEM EVALUATION CRITERIA

MAXIMUM

ALLOWABLE

POINTS

A) Experience and Qualifications 50

B) Approach / Methodology 35

C) Cost 15

D) TOTAL POINTS 100

EVALUATION FACTOR 1: EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS (50 points)

The Proposer’s ability to meet all of the requirements will be considered by the Committee. This review will include the Proposer’s ability to perform satisfactorily all of the overall demands set forth by this

RFP. The CPA’s references may be reviewed and evaluated, particularly in areas of responsiveness, ability to provide service, and resources available to the School District for this contract.

a) Briefly state the understanding of the proposer regarding the work to be done and make a positive commitment to perform the work within a specified delivery schedule as outlined in your proposal.

b) Identify the partners, managers, supervisors, and staff auditors who will work on the audit, including staff from other than the local office if necessary for this audit. A biography for each managerial and supervisory person to be assigned to the audit should be submitted.

c) Describe the firm’s school board audit experience within the State of Florida.

d) The CPA or firm should clearly indicate its available governmental expertise at the local office level.

e) Describe any disciplinary action taken against the firm or individual associated with the firm by the State of Florida Board of Accountancy within the last three (3) years.

f) Provide at least three reference letters (within the last three years) from other Florida school districts (preferred) or similar agencies for work similar to that contemplated by this RFP. Attachment I submissions will also be considered under this category.

EVALUATION FACTOR 2: APPROACH/METHODOLOGY (35 points)

Provide information about the Proposer’s technical competence to perform the services requested. The

Proposer’s proven expertise and capability to provide the services outlined in the Scope of Work in the manner as shown in this Request for Proposal will be reviewed. This will include, but not be limited to, proof of the CPA’s demonstrated ability to provide the specific services listed in this RFP to other public entities of a similar size and scope. Other factors to be considered in this section are the Proposer’s resources which will be verified, including professional expertise of staff members who will conduct the audit.

The Proposer should describe how each of the five components of Internal Control would be addressed:

1. Control Environment – The organizational attitude toward internal control.

2. Risk Assessment – Process to identify and assess risks that could affect the achievement of objectives.

3. Control Activities – Actions put into place by management to reduce risk.

4. Information and Communication – Information is data that is combined and summarized based on what is needed to support the internal control system.

Communication enables the organization to share relevant and quality information internally and externally.

5. Monitoring – Monitoring activities assess whether the five components on internal control and relevant principles are present and functioning. Monitoring is key to measuring the effectiveness of the system of internal controls.

Complete Attachment M – Statement of Capability

EVALUATION FACTOR 3: COST (15 points)

The Contractor’s ability to provide a competitive, complete, comprehensive and economical pricing structure considering all of the activities outlined in requirements/scope of work as set forth in the RFP will be evaluated in this section. This factor, combined with the Proposer’s ability to advise school and district staff from time to time regarding internal accounts laws and rules, will be considered in this area of the evaluation.

Proposers must complete Attachment J, “Proposal Quotation Form” detailing fees for each service listed.

The failure of any firm to provide detailed information regarding proposal elements described in Section 2.7 may result in the reduction of points in the evaluation process.

2.8. Selection Process

The Evaluation Committee will evaluate the Proposals received in response to this RFP based on the Evaluation Criteria in Section 2.7.

2.9. Posting of Recommended Selection

The recommended selection, if any, will be posted for review by interested parties on the St. Lucie Public Schools Purchasing Department website, Bonfire (https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities)

If the Proposer desires to protest the recommended selection(s), if any, the Proposer must file with the Office of Purchasing:

1. Written notice of intent to protest within seventy-two (72) hours (three (3) business days) of the posting of the recommended selection. SLPS shall not extend or waive this time requirement for any reason whatsoever.

2. A formal written protest by petition within ten (10) calendar days of the date of the notice of protest was filed.

3. Failure to file in writing a notice of intent to protest or a formal protest by petition within the time prescribed in section 120.57(3), Florida Statutes, or failure to post the bond or other security required by law within the time allowed for filing a bond shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

(Note: Florida Statutes 120.57(3) and School Board Policy 6326/6320.01 contain entire procedure for filing).

2.10. Proposal Validity Period

Any submitted proposal, shall in its entirety, remain a valid proposal for one year after the proposal submission date.

2.11. Disposition of Proposals

All proposals become the property of SLPS, and SLPS shall have the right to use all ideas, and/or adaptations of those ideas, contained in any proposal received in response to this RFP. Any parts of the proposal or any other material(s) submitted to SLPS with the proposal that are copyrighted or expressly marked as “confidential”, “proprietary”, or “trade secret”, will be exempted from the “open records disclosure requirements” of Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, but only to the extent expressly authorized https://stlucieschools.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities by Florida law. If Proposer wishes to mark items as confidential or exempt, the Proposer must also reference the specific law that allows the exemption. SLPS’s selection or rejection of a proposal will not affect this exemption

2.12. Economy of Presentation

SLPS is not liable for any costs incurred by a Proposer in responding to this RFP including, without limitation costs for oral presentations requested by SLPS, if any.

2.13. Verbal Instructions

No negotiations, decisions, or actions shall be initiated or executed by the Proposer as a result of any discussions with any SLPS employee. Only those communications that are in writing from the authorized SLPS representative identified in section 2.1 of this RFP shall be considered as duly authorized expression on behalf of SLPS.

3. REQUIRED PROPOSAL FORMAT

The Proposer shall not alter the RFP in any way. The contract, if any, resulting from the RFP shall attach the entire RFP and incorporate the RFP by reference.

To facilitate analysis of its proposal, it is highly recommended that the Proposer prepare its proposal in accordance with the instructions outlined in this section.

SLPS emphasizes that the Proposer concentrate on accuracy, completeness, and clarity of content. The Proposer must use sections which are clearly identified and also must number and label all parts, pages, figures, and tables in its proposal. Proposer’s response to this RFP must be submitted to SLPS’s online procurement portal listed in Section 2.1 above.

Proposal Sections (refer to Bonfire for required sections)

3.1. Executive Summary Requirements

Each conforming response will contain an executive summary of not more than two pages in length. The purpose of the executive summary is to explain the features and benefits of the prospective vendor's offer(s). The Executive Summary should briefly introduce the potential vendor to the Evaluation Committee; describe the vendor's approach to solutions sought by the RFP; describe the major features and benefits of the prospective vendor's approach; offer insight into risks that may arise from this RFP or the vendor's response; provide a generalized pricing summary (detailed pricing will be required in the pricing section of the response); an explanation of how pricing for the proposal was arrived at; any pricing constraints applied to the RFP.

3.2. Incorporated References

Please write out all responses in full. Do not "incorporate" brochure or product literature references, direct the reader to Web pages, or refer to other third-party documentation in this response. Clearly label all supporting material.

The Evaluation Committee is not responsible for gathering information from multiple sources to form and assess a complete response. Responses will be evaluated exactly as written, except in the narrow circumstances noted in this RFP.

4. AWARD

All proposals will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria specified in this document. Based on the proposals received, the Board may elect to proceed based on any of the following options, but will not necessarily be limited only to these options: (1) Award to the best initial proposal without any further discussion or negotiation; (2) Negotiate with the highest ranked firm or firms (the Board reserves the right to make multiple awards), or; (3) require the top ranked firms to make oral presentations. Proposers are advised to provide a competitive offer with the initial proposal since the District reserves the right to award a contract based on initial proposals without further discussion or negotiation.

The proposal(s) most advantageous to the Board, at its sole discretion, will be selected. The Board reserves the right to negotiate out unacceptable clauses or restrictions incorporated within an otherwise acceptable proposal. In the event that a mutually acceptable contract between the Board and the selected Proposer cannot be successfully negotiated and executed, the Board reserves the right to discontinue negotiations with such Proposer and to negotiate and execute a contract with the next highest ranked Proposer.

Award will not be based solely on economics, but rather an evaluation of all aspects of the proposal.

The Board reserves the right to make multiple awards. RFP award does not guarantee purchase.

5. CONTRACT PERIOD

The initial contract period will be a one (1) year term with the option to renew the contract for three (3) additional one-year periods, at the same terms and conditions of the initial contract period. The contract may be renewed, by mutual written agreement between the parties.

6. PAYMENT TERMS

The District's payment terms are pursuant to Chapter 218, Florida Statutes; Florida Prompt Payment Act.

Itemized invoices, each bearing the Purchase Order Number must be mailed on the day of shipment. Invoicing subject to cash discounts will be mailed on the day that they are dated.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

7. INDEMNIFICATION / HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT

The successful proposer(s) shall, in addition to any other obligation to indemnify the St. Lucie County School District and to the fullest extent permitted by law, protect, defend, indemnify and hold harmless the School District, their agents, officers, elected officials and employees from and against all claims, actions, liabilities, losses (including economic losses), costs arising out of any actual or alleged;

A. bodily injury, sickness, disease or death, or injury to or destruction of tangible property including the loss of use resulting there from, or any other damage or loss arising out of, or claimed to have resulted in whole or in part from any actual or alleged act or omission of the vendor, subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them, of anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable in the performance of the work; or

B. violation of law, statute, ordinance, governmental administration order, rule or regulation by vendor in the performance of the work; or

C. liens, claims or actions made by the vendor or any subcontractor or other party performing the work.

The indemnification obligations hereunder shall not be limited to any limitation on the amount, type of damages, compensation or benefits payable by or for the vendor of any subcontractor under workers' compensation acts; disability benefit acts, other employee benefit acts or any statutory bar.

Any costs or expenses, including attorney's fees, incurred by the St. Lucie County School District to enforce this agreement shall be borne by the vendor.

Awardees(s) recognize the broad nature of this indemnification and hold harmless article, and voluntarily makes this covenant and expressly acknowledges the receipt of TEN DOLLARS payable upon receipt of first invoice and other good and valuable consideration provided by the District in support of this indemnification in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida. This article will survive the termination of this contract.

8. ACCESS AND AUDITS

The vendor shall maintain adequate records to justify all charges, expenses, and costs incurred in estimating and performing the work for at least three (3) years after completion of the contract. The School District shall have access to all records, documents and information collected and/or maintained by others in the course of the administration of the contract. This information shall be made accessible to the School District upon request. It shall be the vendor’s responsibility to ensure that all required records are provided to the School District at the vendor’s expense.

9. ENTIRETY OF CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT

The School District and the Contractor agree that this RFP sets forth the entire agreement between the parties, and that there are no promises or understandings other than those stated herein. None of the provisions, terms and conditions contained in this document may be added to, deleted, modified, superseded or otherwise altered, except by written instrument executed by the parties hereto.

The contents of this RFP and all provisions of the awarded bidder’s submittal shall be considered a contract and become legally binding. A separate contract document, other than the purchase order, may not be issued.

10. SCHOOL DISTRICT OF ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA RIGHTS

The School Board reserves the right to:

A. Reject any and all offers received as a result of this proposal.

B. Disqualify a bidder from receiving the award if such proposer, or anyone in the proposer's employment, has previously failed to perform satisfactorily in connection with public bidding or contracts.

C. Seek clarification of information submitted and to waive minor irregularities in any proposal.

D. Accept and utilize any and all ideas submitted in any proposal.

E. Negotiate further with any bidder responding to this proposal if it will serve the best interest of the

School District.

F. Select and award the contract to the responsive bidder providing the best value to the School District.

G. If the School District determines additional features, service, modifications, or deletions are needed and it is in the District's best interest, the District may enter into negotiations with the vendor to amend the contract.

H. Select and award services to more than one vendor if it will serve in the best interest of the School

District

11. CANCELLATION OF AWARD/TERMINATION

A. The District reserves the right to terminate the agreement between the parties, at any time and for any reason, upon giving 30 days prior written notice to the vendor. The District will only be required to pay to the service provider(s) that amount of the contract actually performed to the date of termination.

B. The School District reserves the right to immediately terminate the contract by providing written notice to the vendor if the School District determines any of the following have occurred:

I. The vendor knowingly furnished any statement, representation, warranty or certification in connection with the solicitation or the contract, which representation is materially false, deceptive, incorrect, or incomplete.

II. The vendor fails to perform to the School District’s satisfaction any material requirement of the contract or defaults in performance of the contract.

III. The performance of the contract is substantially endangered by the action or inaction of the vendor, or such occurrence can be reasonably anticipated.

IV. The vendor violates any federal, state or local laws.

V. The State enacts a law, which removes or restricts the authority of the School District to conduct all or part of its function.

Such termination is to be effective as of the date specified in the notice to vendor. Upon receipt of such notice, vendor shall: (i) discontinue all work in accordance with the School District’s instructions, (ii) terminate all existing orders and subcontracts insofar as such orders and subcontracts relate to the performance of the terminated work. Upon termination, vendor shall deliver to School District those goods for which School District has made payment, including all Goods in manufacture, but not yet completed and all Work Products, whether or not in final form, created by vendor or its subcontractor prior to termination.

Cancellation of contract by the successful Proposer may result in removal from Bidders’/Proposers’ list for a period of three years.

12. DEFAULT

In the event that the successful bidder should breach this contract the District reserves the right to seek remedies in law and/or in equity.

13. MINOR PROPOSAL EXCEPTIONS

This School District reserves the right to waive minor deviations or exceptions in proposal’s providing such action is in the best interest of the School District of St. Lucie County. Minor deviations/exceptions are defined as those that have no adverse effect upon the School District’s interest and would not affect the outcome of the award by giving a respondent an advantage or benefit not enjoyed by other respondents.

14. NON – EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS

The right to provide the commodities and services, which will be granted under the contract, shall not be exclusive. The School District reserves the right to contract for and purchase commodities and services from as many firms as it deems necessary without infringing upon or terminating the contract.