23_263_RFQ.pdf

RFQ #23-263 Task Order Program for Water & Sewer Infrastructure RFQ Due: Tuesday, October 10, 2023 @ 11:00 a.m.

Request for Qualifications

RFQ Item #23-263

Task Order Program for Water & Sewer Infrastructure

For

Augusta, Georgia – Utilities Department

Until further notice All RFQ openings, conferences, and evaluation meetings will be conducted by electronic teleconferencing via ZOOM Instructions are enclosed

Sec. 1-10-50. Sealed bids selection method:

Bid acceptance and bid evaluation. Provided that the bids are delivered to the Procurement Director at the time, place, and under the conditions contained in the Invitation for Bids, the bids shall be conditionally accepted without alteration or correction pending evaluation.

It Is The Responsibility Of The Vendor To Ensure Their RFQ Submittal Is Received By The Time Specified Above.

One Original and Seven (7) Copies of RFQ shall be submitted

Thanks for doing business with us . . .

Geri A. Sams, Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901

Rev. 8/11/2016

Table of Contents

Instruction to Submit

Purpose Viewing of the Augusta Code

Compliance with Laws Proposal for All or Part Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Policy Augusta Georgia License Requirement Terms of Contract

Notice to All Proponents Required to be returned with your submittal. Both documents must be notarized

Attachment B Must return the 2 pages Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program

Local Small Business Opportunity Program Ordinance Requirements

Request for Qualification Specifications

Request for Qualifications will be received at this office until Tuesday, October 10, 2023 @ 11:00 a.m. via ZOOM Meeting ID: 813 3492 4356; Passcode: 670432 for furnishing:

RFQ Item #23-263 Task Order Program for Water & Sewer Infrastructure for Augusta, GA – Utilities Department

RFQs will be received by: The Augusta Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of:

Geri A. Sams, Director Augusta Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street - Room 605

RFQ documents may be viewed on the Augusta Georgia web site under the Procurement Department ARCbid. RFQ documents may be obtained at the office of the Augusta, GA Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street – Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901 (706-821-2422).

A Pre-Qualification Conference will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m. via Zoom Meeting ID: 840 4223 6597;

Passcode: 833156.

All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Tuesday, September 26, 2023 @ 5:00 P.M. No RFQ will be accepted by fax or email, all must be received by mail or hand delivered.

No RFQ may be withdrawn for a period of 90 days after RFQs have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful bidder(s).

Request for qualifications (RFQ) and specifications. An RFQ shall be issued by the Procurement Office and shall include specifications prepared in accordance with Article 4 (Product Specifications), and all contractual terms and conditions, applicable to the procurement. All specific requirements contained in the request for qualification including, but not limited to, the number of copies needed, the timing of the submission, the required financial data, and any other requirements designated by the Procurement Department are considered material conditions of the bid which are not waivable or modifiable by the Procurement Director. All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Procurement Director to the appropriate committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission.

Please mark RFQ number on the outside of the envelope.

GEORGIA E-Verify and Public Contracts: The Georgia E-Verify law requires contractors and all sub-contractors on Georgia public contract (contracts with a government agency) for the physical performance of services over $2,499 in value to enroll in E-Verify, regardless of the number of employees. They may be exempt from this requirement if they have no employees and do not plan to hire employees for the purpose of completing any part of the public contract. Certain professions are also exempt. All requests for qualification issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

Respondents are cautioned that acquisition of RFQ documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of RFQ documents from unauthorized sources places the proponent at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base their qualifications.

Correspondence must be submitted via mail, fax or email as follows:

Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director

Publish:

Augusta Chronicle May 4, 11, 18, 25, 2023 Metro Courier May 4, 2023 cc: Takiyah A. Douse Interim Administrator Wes Byne Utilities Department

Revised: 3/22/21 mailto:procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov http://gma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMjUwOTU1JnA9MSZ1PTUxODY3MTg3MiZsaT0yMTQ3NjI3Nw/index.html

PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT BIDS AND CONTRACTS

ELECTRONIC RFQ OPENING INFORMATION

The Augusta, Georgia Procurement Department conducts Public Pre-Qualifications Conferences and Openings to award quality contracts for Augusta. Proposers may participate in our Public Pre-Qualification Conferences and

Openings via webcast or teleconference by following the instructions outlined below:

ELECTRONIC RFQ INSTRUCTIONS

Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device

Pre-Qualification Conference - RFQ #23-263 – Task Order Program for Water and Sewer

Infrastructure – Utilities Department

Monday, September 25, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m.

ZOOM Opening:

1. Go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 840 4223 6597

2. Password: 833156

3. Teleconference: Telephone number: 646 876 9923

RFQ Opening - RFQ #23-263 – Task Order Program for Water and Sewer Infrastructure –

Utilities Department

Tuesday, October 10, 2023 @ 11:00 a.m.

ZOOM Opening:

4. Go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 813 3492 4356

5. Password: 670432

6. Teleconference: Telephone number: 646 876 9923

OFFICAL RFQ RESULTS will Post within 5 Days

For Assistance: Please Contact the Bid and Contract Team at (706) 821-2422

Rev. 9/30/2021 https://zoom.us/join https://zoom.us/join

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this document is to

provide general and specific information for use by vendors in submitting a proposal to supply Augusta, Georgia with equipment, supplies, and or services as listed above. All proposals are governed by the Augusta, Georgia Code.

1.2 Viewing the Augusta Code: All proposals are

governed and awarded in accordance with the applicable federal and state regulations and the Augusta, Georgia Code. To view the Code visit Augusta’s website at www.augustaga.gov or http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=68 5 Guidelines & Procedures.

1.3 Compliance with laws: The Proponent shall

obtain and maintain all licenses, permits, liability insurance, workman's compensation insurance and comply with any and all other standards or regulations required by federal, state or Augusta, Georgia statute, ordinances, and rules during the performance of any contract between the Proponent and Augusta, Georgia. Any such requirement specifically set forth in any contract document between the Proponent and Augusta, Georgia shall be supplementary to this section and not in substitution thereof.

1.4 Proposals For All Or Part: Unless otherwise

specified by Augusta, Georgia or by the proponent, AUGUSTA, GEORGIA RESERVES THE

RIGHT TO MAKE AWARD ON ALL ITEMS, OR ON

ANY OF THE ITEMS ACCORDING TO THE BEST

INTEREST OF AUGUSTA, GEORGIA. Proponent may restrict his proposal to consideration in the aggregate by so stating but must name a unit price on each item submitted upon.

1.5 All protest shall be made in writing to:

Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901, Fax: 706-821-2811 or

Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

1.6 Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE)

Policy: Court Order Enjoining Race-Based Portion of DBE Program Augusta, Georgia does not have a race or gender conscious Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) program for projects having Augusta, Georgia as the source of funding. Augusta does enforce mandatory DBE requirements of federal and state agencies on contracts funded by such agencies and has a DBE Program to comply with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other federal and state mandated DBE requirements for certain DOT, FTA, FAA, and other federal and state assisted contracts as required by 49 C.F.R.

Part 26, et. seq. and/or 49 C.F.R. Part 23, et.

seq. This DBE program is only for DOT, FTA and FAA assisted contracts and other federal or state funded contracts having mandatory DBE requirements. (See Article 13 of the Augusta, GA. Code.)

Augusta, Georgia prohibits any language in any solicitation, bid or contract that is inconsistent with the July 21, 2011, Court Order in the case, Thompson Wrecking, Inc. v. Augusta Georgia, civil action No. 1:07-CV-019. Any such language appearing in any Augusta, Georgia solicitation, bid or contract is void and unenforceable.

A copy of this Order can be reviewed at www.augustaga.gov home page.

1.7 Augusta, Georgia License Requirement: For

further information contact the License and Inspection Department @ 706 312-5050.

General Contractors License Number: If applicable, in accordance with O.C.G.A. §43-41, or be subjected to penalties as may be required by law.

Utility Contractor License Number: If applicable, in accordance with O.C.G.A. §43-14, or be subjected to penalties as may be required by law.

1.8 Terms of Contract: (Check where

applicable)

[ ] (A) Annual Contract [ ] (B) One time Purchase.

[X] (C) Other

../../th13290/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/2015%20Bid%20Information/15-172A%20Temporary%20Staffing%20Services/www.augustaga.gov http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685%20%20Guidelines%20&%20Procedures http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685%20%20Guidelines%20&%20Procedures http://www.augustaga.gov/

NOTICE TO ALL VENDORS

ADHERE TO THE BELOW INSTRUCTIONS AND DO NOT SUBSTITUTE FORMS

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

Attachment B is a consolidated document consisting of:

1. Business License Number Requirement (must be provided)

2. Acknowledgement of Addenda (must be acknowledged, if any)

3. Statement of Non-Discrimination

4. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Prime Proponent/Offeror

5. Conflict of Interest

6. Contractor Affidavit and Agreement (E-Verify User ID Number must be provided)

Attachment B Must be Notarized & Two (2) Pages Must be returned with your submittal - No Exceptions.

Business License Requirement: Proponent must be licensed in the Governmental entity for where they do the majority of their business. Your company’s business license number must be provided on Page 1 of Attachment B. If your Governmental entity (State or Local) does not require a business license, your company will be required to obtain a Richmond County business license if awarded a contract. For further information, contact the License and Inspection Department @ 706 312-5050.

Acknowledgement of Addenda: You Must acknowledge all Addenda. See Page 1 of Attachment B.

E-Verify * User Identification Number (Company I.D.) The recommended awarded vendor will be required to provide a copy of Homeland Security’s Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU). Contractors, Bids, RFPs, RFQs - Any contractors performing the physical performance of services” for your city, including those that respond to bids or requests for proposals, must submit an E-Verify affidavit. Your city cannot consider any contractors, even as part of a bidding or RFP process, unless they have given you the appropriate E-Verify contractor affidavits.

Contractors are defined as those who provide any “physical performance of services,” which means any performance of labor or services for a public employer using a bidding process or by contract that costs over $2,499.99 in value between December 1 and November 30 of any given year.

Typically, eligible contracts may include: New construction or the demolition of structures/roads Routine operation, repair, and maintenance of existing structures. Any contracts for labor and service that exceed $2,499.99. Contracts for the purchase of goods without any services provided are not subject to these E-Verify requirements.

The city, each contractor, and each subcontractor have different roles and responsibilities in the E-Verify process. The city collects E-Verify affidavits from the contractor. The contractor collects E-Verify affidavits from its subcontractors. The subcontractors collect E-Verify affidavits from its sub-subcontractors. Independent contractors (those with no employees) do not need to supply E-Verify information. Instead, they will provide a driver’s license or state identification card from states on the “compliant” list created by the Georgia Attorney General. Those contractors and subcontractors that fill out the affidavits are responsible for the accuracy of the information. The city does not need to confirm that the E-Verify information is correct. The liability for incorrect information is on the contractor or subcontractor. NOTE: The authorization date can be found within the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Affidavit Verifying Status for Augusta Benefit Application (S.A.V.E. Program) (Must Be Returned With Your Submittal)

The successful proponent will submit the following forms to the Procurement Department no later than five (5) days after receiving the “Letter of Recommendation” (Vendor’s letter will denote the date forms are to be received)

1. Georgia Security and Immigration Subcontractor Affidavit

2. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Sub-Contractor

3. PLEASE NOTE GEORGIA LAW CHANGE: E-Verify and Public Contracts: The Georgia E-Verify law requires contractors and all sub-contractors on Georgia public contract (contracts with a government agency) for the physical performance of services over $2,499 in value to enroll in E-Verify, regardless of the number of employees. They may be exempt from this requirement if they have no employees and do not plan to hire employees for the purpose of completing any part of the public contract. Certain professions are also exempt. All requests for proposals issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

WARNING: Please review “Notice to Proponent” regarding Augusta Georgia’s Local Small Business Opportunity Program Proponent Requirements.

Vendors are cautioned that acquisition of proposal documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of proposal documents from unauthorized sources places the proposer at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications.

Proposals are publicly opened. It is your responsibility to ensure that your company has met the Specifications and Licenses’ requirements prior to submitting a proposal.

Rev. 4/09/21

Attachment B

You Must Complete and Return the 2 pages of Attachment B with Your Submittal. Document Must Be Notarized.

Augusta, Georgia Augusta Procurement Department ATTN: Procurement Director 535 Telfair Street, Suite 605

Name of Proponent: _______________________________________________________________________________

Street Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip Code: ______________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ______________________ Fax: __________________________Email: ________________________________

Do You Have A Business License? Yes: ______ No: ______

Augusta, GA Business License # for your Company (Must Provide): ______________________________________

And/or Your State/Local Business License # for your Company (Must Provide): _____________________________

Utility Contractors License # (Must Provide if applicable): _______________________________ MUST BE LISTED ON FRONT OF ENVELOPE

General Contractor License # (Must Provide if applicable): _______________________________________________

Additional Specialty License # (Must Provide if applicable): ______________________________________________

NOTE: Company must be licensed in the Governmental entity for where they do the majority of their business. If your Governmental entity (State or Local) does not require a business license, please state above (Procurement will verify), your company will be required to obtain a Richmond County business license if awarded a BID. For further information regarding Augusta, GA license requirements, please contact the License and Inspection Department @ 706 312-5050.

List the State, City & County that issued your license: ___________________________________________________________

Acknowledgement of Addenda: (#1) ____: (#2) ____: (#3) ____: (#4) ____: (#5) ____: (#6) ____: (#7) ____: (#8) ____:

NOTE: CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX (ES) - ADD ADDITIONAL NUMBERS AS APPLICABLE

Statement of Non-Discrimination

The undersigned understands that it is the policy of Augusta, Georgia to promote full and equal business opportunity for all persons doing business with Augusta, Georgia. The undersigned covenants that we have not discriminated, on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, or ethnicity, with regard to prime contracting, subcontracting, or partnering opportunities.

The undersigned covenants and agrees to make good faith efforts to ensure maximum practicable participation of local small businesses on the proposal or contract awarded by Augusta, Georgia. The undersigned further covenants that we have completed truthfully and fully the required forms regarding good faith efforts and local small business subcontractor/supplier utilization.

The undersigned further covenants and agrees not to engage in discriminatory conduct of any type against local small businesses, in conformity with Augusta, Georgia’s Local Small Business Opportunity Program. Set forth below is the signature of an officer of the proposer/contracting entity with the authority to bind the entity.

The undersigned acknowledge and warrant that this Company has been made aware of understands and agrees to take affirmative action to provide such companies with the maximum practicable opportunities to do business with this Company;

That this promise of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect without interruption;

That the promises of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be and are hereby deemed to be made as part of and incorporated by reference into any contract or portion thereof which this Company may hereafter obtain and;

That the failure of this Company to satisfactorily discharge any of the promises of nondiscrimination as made and set forth herein shall constitute a material breach of contract entitling Augusta, Georgia to declare the contract in default and to exercise any and all applicable rights remedies including but not limited to cancellation of the contract, termination of the contract, suspension and debarment from future contracting opportunities, and withholding and or forfeiture of compensation due and owing on a contract.

Non-Collusion of Prime Proponent

By submission of a proposal, the vendor certifies, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

(a) The prices in the proposal have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communications, or agreement, for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other vendor or with any competitor.

(b) Unless otherwise required by law, the prices which have been quoted in the proposal have not been knowingly disclosed by the vendor prior to opening, directly or indirectly, to any other vendor or to any competitor.

(c) No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the vendor to induce any other person, partnership, or corporation to submit or not to submit a proposal for the purpose of restricting competition. Collusions and fraud in proposal preparation shall be reported to the State of Georgia Attorney General and the United States Justice Department.

You Must Complete and Return the 2 pages of Attachment B with Your Submittal. Document Must Be Notarized.

Rev. 4/09/21

Conflict of Interest PAGE 2 OF 2 By submission of a bid, the responding firm certifies, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

1. No circumstances exist which cause a Conflict of Interest in performing the services required by this BID, and

2. That no employee of the County, nor any member thereof, not any public agency or official affected by this BID, has any pecuniary interest in the business of the responding firm or his sub-consultant(s) has any interest that would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance related to this BID. By submission of a bid, the vendor certifies under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

(a) The prices in the bid have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communications, or agreement, for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other vendor or with any competitor.

(b) Unless otherwise required by law, the prices which have been quoted in the bid have not knowingly been disclosed by the vendor prior to opening, directly or indirectly, to any other vendor or competitor.

c) No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the vendor to induce any other person, partnership, or cooperation to submit or not to submit a bid for the purpose of restricting competition. For any breach or violation of this provision, the County shall have the right to terminate any related contract or agreement without liability and at its discretion to deduct from the price, or otherwise recover, the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift, payment, or consideration.

Contractor Affidavit and Agreement: Contractor Affidavit under O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b) (l)

GEORGIA E-Verify and Public Contracts: The Georgia E-Verify law requires contractors and all sub-contractors on Georgia public contract (contracts with a government agency) for the physical performance of services over $2,499 in value to enroll in E-Verify, regardless of the number of employees. They may be exempt from this requirement if they have no employees and do not plan to hire employees for the purpose of completing any part of the public contract. Certain professions are also exempt. All requests for proposals issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

The undersigned contractor ("Contractor") executes this Affidavit to comply with O.C.G.A § 13-10-91 related to any contract to which Contractor is a party that is subject to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 and hereby verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, attesting as follows:

a) The Contractor has registered with, is authorized to use, and uses the federal work authorization program commonly known as E-Verify, or any subsequent replacement program;

b) The Contractor will continue to use the federal work authorization program throughout the contract period, including any renewal or extension thereof;

c) The Contractor will notify the public employer in the event the Contractor ceases to utilize the federal work authorization program during the contract period, including renewals or extensions thereof;

d) The Contractor understands that ceasing to utilize the federal work authorization program constitutes a material breach of Contract;

e) The Contractor will contract for the performance of services in satisfaction of such contract only with subcontractors who present an affidavit to the Contractor with the information required by O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(a), (b), and (c);

f) The Contractor acknowledges and agrees that this Affidavit shall be incorporated into any contract(s) subject to the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 13-10- 91 for the project listed below to which Contractor is a party after the date hereof without further action or consent by Contractor; and

g) Contractor acknowledges its responsibility to submit copies of any affidavits, drivers' licenses, and identification cards required pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 to the public employer within five business days of receipt.

Georgia Law requires your company to have an E-Verify*User Identification Number (Company I.D.) on or after July 1, 2009.

For additional information or to enroll your company, visit the State of Georgia website:

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/enroll/ and/or http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/rules/300_10 1.pdf

Federal Work Authorization User Identification Number: E-VERIFY REQUIRED FOR ALL CONTRACTS OVER $2,499.00 Date of Authorization

** (E-Verify Number) _________________________________ ___________________________

Name of Contractor Name of Project / Bid Number

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – RICHMOND COUNTY CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT

Name of Public Employer

I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on ___________________, _________, 20________ in ___________________ (City), _______________ (State).

Signature of Authorized Officer or Agent Printed Name and Title of Authorized Officer or Agent

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN BEFORE ME ON THIS THE _______ DAY OF ____________________________, 20_______

Notary Public My Commission Expires: NOTARY SEAL

The undersigned further agrees to submit a notarized copy of Attachment B and any required documentation noted as part of the Augusta, Georgia Board of Commissions specifications which govern this process. In addition, the undersigned agrees to submit all required forms for any subcontractor(s) as requested and or required. I further understand that my submittal will be deemed non-compliant if any part of this process is violated.

You Must Complete and Return the 2 pages of Attachment B with Your Submittal. Document Must Be Notarized.

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/enroll/ http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/rules/300_10%201.pdf

You Must Complete and Return with Your Submittal. Document Must Be Notarized

Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program

Affidavit Verifying Status for Augusta, Georgia Benefit Application By executing this affidavit under oath, as an applicant for an Augusta, Georgia Business License or Occupation Tax Certificate, Alcohol License, Taxi Permit, Contract, or other public benefit as reference in O.C.G.A. Section 50-36-1, I am stating the following with respect to my bid for an Augusta, Georgia contract for

[RFQ Project Number and Project Name]

[Print/Type: Name of natural person applying on behalf of individual, business, corporation, partnership, or other private entity]

[Print/Type: Name of business, corporation, partnership, or other private entity]

1.) _________ I am a citizen of the United States.

OR

2.) _________ I am a legal permanent resident 18 years of age or older.

OR

3.) _________ I am an otherwise qualified alien (8 § USC 1641) or nonimmigrant under the Federal Immigration and

Nationality Act (8 USC 1101 et seq.) 18 years of age or older and lawfully present in the United States. *

In making the above representation under oath, I understand that any person who knowingly and willfully makes a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation in an affidavit shall be guilty of a violation of Code Section 16-10-20 of the Official Code of Georgia.

Signature of Applicant

Printed Name

*Alien Registration Number for Non-Citizens

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN BEFORE ME ON THIS THE ___________ DAY OF ______________, 20____

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: _____________________________ NOTARY SEAL

Note: THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED WITH YOUR SUBMITTAL

REV. 2/17/2016

Local Small Business Opportunity Program Ordinance Requirements Notice To All Bidders (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY) Shall apply to ALL Bids regardless of the dollar amount In accordance with Chapter 10B of the AUGUSTA, GA. CODE, Contractors agree to collect and maintain all records necessary to for Augusta, Georgia to evaluate the effectiveness of its Local Small Business Opportunity Program and to make such records available to Augusta, Georgia upon request. The requirements of the Local Small Business Opportunity Program can be found at www.augustaga.gov. In accordance with AUGUSTA, GA. CODE, Contractors shall report to Augusta, Georgia the total dollars paid to each subcontractor, vendor, or other business on each contract, and shall provide such payment affidavits, regarding payment to subcontractors, if any as required by Augusta, Georgia. Such utilization reports shall be in the format specified by the Director of Minority and Small Business Opportunities and shall be submitted at such times as required by Augusta, Georgia. Required forms can be found at www.augustaga.gov. If you need assistance completing a form or filing information, please contact the LSBO Program office at (706) 821-2406.

Failure to provide such reports within the time period specified by Augusta, Georgia shall entitle Augusta, Georgia to exercise any of the remedies set forth, including but not limited to, withholding payment from the Contractor and/or collecting liquidated damages.

To print a copy of the Prime Contractor Data Collection Form visit:

http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=1672 Website: http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?nid=83

SHALL APPLY TO PROJECTS $100,000 & UP

Local Small Business Opportunity Program (Continued) Sec. 1-10-129. Local small business opportunities program participation.

(a) Sealed Bids The following procedures and contract requirements will be used to ensure that local small businesses are encouraged to participate in Augusta, Georgia contracts, including but not limited to construction contracts, requests for professional services and the performance of public works contracts. The Augusta, Georgia user department shall indicate goals for local small business in all solicitations for contracts over $100,000 in value:

(1) Bid conditions for contracts awarded by Augusta, Georgia will require that, where subcontracting goal is utilized in performing the contract, the bidder or proponent, will make Good Faith Efforts to subcontract with or purchase supplies from local small businesses. Bid specifications will require the bidder or proponent to keep records of such efforts that are adequate to permit a determination of compliance with this requirement.

(2) Each bidder shall be required to provide documentation of achieving goal or provide documentation of Good Faith Efforts to engage local small businesses as subcontractors or suppliers, the names of local small businesses and other subcontractors to whom it intends to award subcontracts, the dollar value of the subcontracts, and the scope of the work to be performed, recorded on the form(s) provided or made available as part of the bid package. If there are no sub-contracting opportunities, bidder shall so indicate on the appropriate form.

(6) All bid documents shall require bidders or proponents to submit with their bid the following written documents, statements, or forms, which shall be made available by the Procurement Department.

(i) Non-Discrimination Statement which shall affirm the bidder’s: (a) adherence to the policies of Augusta, Georgia relating to equal opportunity in contracting; (b) agreement to undertake certain measures as provided in this policy to ensure maximum practicable participation of local small businesses; and (c) agreement not to engage in discriminatory conduct of any type.

(ii) Proposed Local Small Business Subcontractor/Supplier Utilization Plan.

(iii) Documentation of Good Faith Efforts to use local small businesses.

Failure to submit the above documentation shall result in the bid being declared non-responsive.

(d) Post Contract Award Requirements. The purpose of this sub-section is to establish requirements for contractor compliance with the LSBOP after a contract has been awarded.

This is incorporated into all Augusta, Georgia Contracts for which a local small business goal has been established or negotiated.

(1) Contractors shall have an affirmative, ongoing obligation to meet or exceed the committed local small business goal for the duration of the contract. The Augusta, Georgia may deem a contractor to be in violation of the LSBOP and in breach of its contract if at any time Augusta, Georgia determines that:

(a) The contractor will not meet the committed local small business goals; and

(b) the reasons for the contractor’s failure are within the contractor’s control. For example, if a contractor does not meet the local small business goal because the contractor terminated a local small business without cause or if the contractor caused and local small business to withdraw from the project without justification, then Augusta, Georgia is justified in finding the contractor to be in violation of the LSBOP.

(h) Compliance.

(4) The Director of minority and small business opportunities shall be responsible for evaluating good faith efforts documentation and subcontractor information submitted by bidders in conformance with, the AUGUSTA, GA. CODE and any State and Federal Laws applicable to any bid specifications for competitive sealed bid projects prior to award of the contract.

(i) Competitive Bids.

Nothing in this Policy is to be construed to require Augusta, Georgia to award a bid contract to other than the lowest responsible bidder, or to require contractors to award to subcontractors, or to make significant material purchases from local small businesses who do not submit the best overall pricing to Augusta, Georgia.

Sec. 1-10-130. Exceptions – federally funded projects.

In accordance with § 1-10-8 and Chapter 10B, the LSBOP shall only be utilized with federally funded projects, solicitations or contracts as authorized by federal (and Georgia) laws, regulations, and conditions applicable to such projects. To the extent that there are any conflicts between any such laws, regulations, or conditions and the LSBOP, the federal (and Georgia) laws, regulations and conditions shall control.

NOTE: All forms should be submitted in a separate, sealed envelope labeled Local Small Business Required Forms, Company’s Name & Bid Number

For questions and or additional information please contact:

Local Small Business Opportunity Program 535 Telfair Street, Room 530

(706) 821-2406

Website: http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?nid=83

Revised 2/17/2016 http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=1672 http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?nid=83 http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?nid=83

SECTION 1

INSTRUCTION TO SUBMIT

Augusta, Georgia is seeking qualified general utility contractors to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) expressing their interest to provide project installation, maintenance, and/or repairs to the water and sewer infrastructure throughout Augusta and on Fort Gordon for the Utilities Department. Your submittal should respond to, and be based on, the information included in this Request for Qualifications.

Responses will be received in the office of the Director of Procurement at 535 Telfair Street, Suite 605, Augusta, GA 30901 until Tuesday, October 10, 2023 @ 11:00 a.m. The RFQ must be submitted in a sealed package and labeled with the firm’s name and the name of the project “RFQ 23-263 Task Order Program for Water & Sewer Infrastructure. No RFQ will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. Vendors are required to submit one (1) marked unbound original and seven (7) copies of the RFQ.

RFQ Opening will be via ZOOM - Meeting ID: 813 3492 4356; Passcode: 670432

The RFQ shall be addressed and delivered accordingly to:

Ms. Geri Sams, Director of Procurement Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street, Room 605

After advertisement, the RFQs shall be opened per Procurement guidelines. The Procurement Director shall determine whether each package appears to be minimally responsive to the published RFQ requirements.

The User Department, in association with Procurement, will appoint a selection committee to review all acceptable minimally responsive packages. The selection committee members shall review and score each package individually based on the evaluation criteria. Failure to provide all of the requested information may cause the submittal to be rejected as non-responsive.

Any interested qualified firm and/or party is requested to make a response to accomplish the Scope of Services described herein. The response is to be signed by a duly authorized official of the firm and must be submitted in the time, manner, and form prescribed.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all submittals received as the result of this request. The Owner also maintains the right to negotiate with any firm(s), as necessary, to serve the best interests of the Owner. The Owner will not be liable for any costs incurred by any firm prior to the signing of a contract.

A Pre-Qualification Conference will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m. via Zoom Meeting ID: 840 4223 6597; Passcode: 833156.

All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Tuesday September 26, 2023 @ 5:00 P.M.

An official authorized to bind the firm to the terms and provisions of the qualifications must sign the submittal.

For a submittal to be considered it must remain valid for at least ninety (90) days from the time that the Owner receives it.

Qualified firms interested in providing the services described herein are invited to submit a complete Request for Qualifications for consideration. The qualifications shall address the requirements listed below. Failure to provide all requested information may be sufficient cause for rejection. The firm may provide additional information to the request, provided it is placed in a separate section at the end of the RFQ.

The firm’s demonstrated technical capability and other qualifications, as described herein, will also be assessed.

The User Department and Procurement will evaluate the responses to the RFQ, verify the information presented, and conduct oral interviews, as deemed appropriate. This process will result in the selection of the Firm(s) who, through contractual agreements, will undertake the scope of work. After evaluation of RFQ submissions, teams may be invited for interviews.

If a contract is awarded as a result of this solicitation, the contract will be made on the basis of the response which best satisfies the intent of this RFQ, and other factors considered in the best interest of the Owner.

Negotiations may be undertaken with the firm whose proposal shows them to be the most qualified, responsible, and capable of performing the work. In addition to cost, the Owner will consider professional qualifications and related experience to determine which proposal would be in Owner’s best interest if a contract were made.

Appropriate professional registration and significant prior experience in projects of similar scope are considered minimal qualifications.

Augusta reserves the right to reject any or all respondents to this solicitation. Augusta will make a selection based on the RFQ Submittals and possible interviews then negotiate a final agreement with the selected firm(s).

You are welcome to establish a team of firms in connection with this RFQ.

SECTION 2

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

The Augusta Utilities Department, herein referred to as AUD, provides potable water and sanitary sewer services to thousands of commercial, industrial, residential and Fort Gordon users in Augusta. In order to maintain those services, renewal and extensions are periodically necessary.

This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) addresses the need to provide emergency and planned project installation, maintenance, and/or repairs to the water and sewer infrastructure with in Fort Gordon and throughout Richmond County.

The purpose of the RFQ is to invite qualified general utility contractors to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) expressing their interest to provide all tools, labor, material and equipment to perform and complete all Task Order Projects for the AUD throughout Richmond County and/or on Fort Gordon under the following two classifications:

AUGUSTA TASK ORDER PROGRAM

and

FORT GORDON TASK ORDER PROGRAM

As dispersed among various Task Order Contracts, each ranging from:

$10,000.00 - $400,000.00

The terms for the TASK ORDER PROGRAMS shall be for one (1) year with the option to extend for 4 additional one year terms.

Multiple Task Order projects may be in effect at the same time. Projects shall be issued within these TASK ORDER PROGRAM parameters and are to be completed per specific negotiated schedules.

SECTION 3

SCOPE OF SERVICES

Project Description

3.1 Augusta Projects

Shall consist of, but are not limited to the installation, maintenance and/or repair of potable water and sanitary sewer lines, including all related appurtenances. Projects may be further defined as:

3.1.1 Emergency projects

Projects that require attention within 3 hours of notification; some examples being main breaks, shutdowns, sewage spills, etc.

3.1.2 Pre-planned, urgent projects

Projects that fall under the categories of general maintenance, routine repairs, and/or new construction.

3.2 Fort Gordon Projects

Shall consist of, but are not limited to the installation, maintenance and/or repair of potable water and sanitary sewer lines, additionally providing new service connections to the existing infrastructure including all appurtenances throughout Fort Gordon.

3.2.1 Emergency projects

Projects that require attention within 3 hours of notification; some examples being main breaks, shutdowns, sewage spills, etc.

3.2.2 Pre-planned, urgent projects

Projects that fall under the categories of general maintenance, routine repairs, and/or new construction.

3.3 Scope of Projects

3.3.1 Emergency projects

Selected contractors will be contacted on a rotating basis to perform emergency work as needed. The selected contractors will be required to respond on-site to the work request within a 3-hour period.

When time permits, blank pricing schedule, based upon known construction items and scope at the time, will be provided to the contractor in advance of the work. In these instances, the contractor will be required to provide the completed price schedule to AUD for approval prior to beginning work.

3.3.2 Pre-planned, urgent projects

Approved Task Order contractors will have the opportunity to bid on any designated TASK ORDER PROGRAM project as proposed by AUD.

AUD shall provide all required plans, specifications, pricing sheets, details, etc. for each project as best can be determined at time of the project’s conception.

AUD will then issue a Notice To Proceed to the selected Contractor to provide the construction services necessary to complete that specific project as awarded under these TASK ORDER PROGRAMS. Selected contractors will be required to complete each awarded project as defined in the above referenced project plans, specifications, and project documents.

3.3.3 General Requirements for both TASK ORDER PROGRAMS

Contractor shall be a licensed Utility Contractor in the state of Georgia.

Liability insurance requirements shall apply to the entire TASK ORDER PROGRAM. Bonding requirements shall be addressed on an individual project basis.

Selected contractors will have to conform to the latest provisions that require all reasonable and necessary steps be taken to ensure that local small business enterprises have the maximum opportunity to participate in all contracts and subcontracts funded by or through the Augusta, Georgia governing authority.

Employees of selected contractors will be required to complete a criminal and driver history consent form to participate within the program on FORT GORDON. AUD will provide the entry forms to the contractor for completion and submit said completed forms to Fort Gordon for approval of the contractor’s employees access onto Fort Gordon. (Not applicable for projects not on the Fort)

SECTION 4

RESPONSE CONTENTS

Qualified contractors interested in providing the services described herein are invited to submit a complete SOQ for consideration. The SOQ shall address the items listed below. Failure to provide all requested information may be sufficient cause for rejection of the SOQ.

Vendors are required to submit one (1) marked unbound original AND (7) seven copies. Original is to be unbound. Copies may be bound per vendor discretion. The overall submittal shall not surpass more than thirty (30), single-sided, 8 ½ “x 11” pages in a minimum font of 11 point. The contractor may provide additional information to that requested, provided it is placed in a separate section at the end of the SOQ. Supplemental materials, such as company brochures, tabs, cover letter and required Procurement Forms, etc. are not counted as part of the 30-page maximum.

Your response should follow the general format listed below:

SECTION CONTENTS

1. PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS:

All documents required under the Augusta Procurement regulations and procedures, properly executed, and notarized as required. The notary seal shall be visible on the original AND all copies.

2. LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL

Construction Firm’s Letterhead addressed to AUD Task Order Program. The contractor is to state on said letter if they desire to quality to work on Fort Gordon in addition to the Augusta Task Order Program.

3. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE – Tab A

Contractor’s experience in Water and Wastewater Construction and Type of Construction Work Experience. (Include as Appendix A in submittal)

• Ratings will be based on the contractor’s experience and performance on similar projects listed. The contractor shall provide all requested information on the Contractor Qualifying Experience and the Type of Construction Work Experience Documents found in Appendix A.

• The contractor shall report on five (5) projects completed within the past two (2) years that have a contract amount ranging from $10,000 to $400,000 in value, in which that firm was the primary contractor.

• For the Type of Construction Work Experience, simply select the specific construction areas your teams have experience with self-performing.

4. PERSONNEL EXPERIENCE AND STAFFING – Tab B

• Ratings will be based on the resumes of the contractor’s team leads as well as available staffing. The resumes shall include an outline of their experience, knowledge of infrastructure and specifications on water and wastewater projects constructed.

• The contractor shall provide a listing of all current project commitments, the name and amount of each project completed in the past two (2) years, and the number of construction teams on staff, including the trades included in each team. Contractor shall provide a minimum of three resumes of key personnel, each at a single page max.

• Ratings will be based on the resumes of the contractor’s team leads as well as available staffing. The resumes shall include an outline of their experience, knowledge of infrastructure and specifications on water and wastewater projects constructed. The contractor shall provide a listing of all current project commitments, the name and amount of each project completed in the past two

(2) years, and the number of construction teams on staff, including the trades included in each team. Contractor shall provide a minimum of three resumes of key personnel, each at a single page max.

5. EXPERIENCE WITH THIS TYPE OF CONTRACT – Tab C

• Rating will be based on contractor’s experience with Task Order program for Water and Sewer Infrastructure experience.

6. EQUIPMENT ON HAND – Tab D

• Ratings will be based on the listing of equipment owned, including traffic control devices that the contractor currently owns.

7. LIABILITY INSURANCE AND BONDING – Tab E

• Provide statements of liability insurance for projects between $10,000 and $300,000 constructed within the past (5) years. Provide statements from bonding agencies for projects between $10,000 and $300,000 constructed within the past (5) years.

8. FEDERAL EXPERIENCE (FORT GORDON TASK ORDER PROGRAM ONLY) – Tab F (Vendors are not required to submit for the Fort Gordon Task Order – you may submit for only the Augusta Task Order Project)

• The contractor shall provide a listing of all current project’s commitments and past completed projects on federal government installations.

• Employees of selected contractors will be required to complete a criminal and driver history consent form to participate within the program on FORT GORDON.

(Not applicable for projects not on the Fort)

9. REFERENCES – Tab G

Contact name, agency name, and telephone number of at least three (3) past or current (preferably current) commercial airport and general aviation clients of the primary firm located, preferably, within Georgia or adjacent states.

10. FINANCIAL STABILITY – Tab H

Provide financial information that would allow proposal evaluators to ascertain the financial stability of the Proposer.

a. If a public company, include a recap of the most recent audited financial report.

b. If a private company, provide a recap of the most recent internal financial statement;

and letter, on the financial institution’s letterhead, stating financial stability.

NOTE: Will NOT be disclosed in any part of the RFQ. Failure to include the above listed financial stability…