24_130_ITB.pdf

Bid Item #24-130 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services Bid Due: Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m.

Bid Specifications

Bid Item #24-130

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services

For

Augusta, Georgia – Information Technology Department

Until further notice All bid 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 Bid Submittal Is Received By The Time Specified Above.

Thanks for doing business with us . . .

Geri A. Sams, Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901

Rev. 12/3/20

Table of Contents

Invitation to Bid

Instruction to Submit

Purpose Viewing of the Augusta Code

Compliance with Laws Bid for All or Part All protests shall be made in writing Local Vendor Preference Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Policy Augusta Georgia License Requirement Terms of Contract

Notice to All Proposers (Required to be returned with your submittal. Both documents must be notarized) Attachment B - Return the 2 pages Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program - Return the 1 page

Exception Sheet

Local Small Business Opportunity Program Ordinance Requirements

Local Small Business Opportunities Program Participation (Projects $100,000 or more)

Bid Specifications

Invitation to Bid

Sealed bids will be received at this office until Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m. via ZOOM Meeting ID: 840 2347 2671; Passcode: 593911 for furnishing:

Bid Item #24-130 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services for Augusta, GA – Information Technology Department

Bids will be received by Augusta, GA Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of:

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

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

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 Friday, December 22, 2023 @ 5:00 P.M. No bid will be accepted by fax or email, all must be received by mail or hand delivered.

No bids may be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days after bids have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful bidder.

Invitation for bids and specifications. An invitation for bids 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 invitation to bid 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 waiveable 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 BID 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 proposals issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of BID documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of BID documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his 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

No bid will be accepted by fax or email, all must be received by mail or hand delivered.

GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director

Publish:

Augusta Chronicle November 30, 2023, and December 7, 14, 21, 2023 Metro Courier November 30, 2023

Cc Takiyah A. Douse Interim Administrator Tameka Allen Information Technology Department Matthew Hetrick Information Technology Department

Revised: 2/19/2016 mailto:procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT

ELECTRONIC ZOOM INFORMATION

The Augusta, Georgia Procurement Department conducts Public RFP, RFQ, and Bid Openings to award quality contracts for Augusta. Bidders may participate in our Public Openings via webcast or teleconference by following the instructions outlined below:

ELECTRONIC BID INSTRUCTIONS

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

Opening - Bid #24-130 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services for Augusta, GA - Information Technology Department

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @ 11:00 AM

ZOOM Opening:

1. Go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 840 2347 2671

2. Password: 593911

3. Teleconference: Telephone number: 646 876 9923

OFFICAL BID RESULTS will Post within 5 Days

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

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

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 bid to supply Augusta, Georgia with equipment, supplies, and or services as listed above.

All bids are governed by the Augusta, Georgia Code.

1.2 Viewing the Augusta Code: All bids 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=685 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 Bids 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 bid 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 Local Vendor Preference: The Local Vendor

Preference policy shall only be applied to projects of one-hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) or less and only when the lowest local qualified bidder is within 10% or $10,000, whichever is less of the lowest non-local bidders.

1.7 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.

1.8 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.

1.9 Terms of Contract: (Check where applicable)

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

[ ] (C) Other

Revised 2/11/2016

../2019%20Bid%20Information/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 http://gma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMjUwOTU1JnA9MSZ1PTUxODY3MTg3MiZsaT0yMTQ3NjI3Nw/index.html

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. Documents 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.

http://gma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMjUwOTU1JnA9MSZ1PTUxODY3MTg3MiZsaT0yMTQ3NjI3Nw/index.html 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

[ITB 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 2-11-16 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 I

INFORMATION FOR BIDDERS

Augusta, Georgia (hereinafter referred to as the Owner) intends to select a qualified vendor to provide Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services for the Information Technology Department. Your submittal should respond to, and be based on, the information included in this Invitation to Bid.

Bids will be received by the Augusta Commission, (hereinafter called the "Owner"), at the office of the Procurement Director, 535 Telfair Street, Room 605, Augusta, GA until Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m., and then, at said office, publicly opened and read aloud. Each bid must be submitted in a sealed envelope and must be plainly marked on the outside as a bid for "Bid Item #24-130 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Consulting Services” and the envelope should bear on the outside, the name of the bidder, his address, and his license number, if applicable.

Bid opening will be held via ZOOM - Meeting ID: 840 2347 2671; Passcode: 593911

If the bid is forwarded by mail, or other second party delivery service, the sealed envelope containing the bid must be enclosed in another envelope addressed to:

Geri A. Sams

535 Telfair Street - Room 605

Bid packages may be obtained from the Augusta Procurement Department at the address listed above. The bid package contains provisions required for the project. All firms responding are cautioned to read this information carefully for understanding and request clarification from Augusta on any questions pertaining to this request.

All questions should be directed to Geri Sams, Director of Procurement, and must be in in writing by fax to 706- 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov. The last day to submit questions is Friday, December 22, 2023, @ 5:00 P.M. Questions discussed with any other officer, agent or employee of Augusta Richmond County will not be considered binding in consideration of this proposal and shall not affect the risks or obligations assumed by the Contractor or relieve him from fulfilling any of the conditions of the Contract.

Interested firms are cautioned that acquisition of Bid Documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisitions of said documents from unauthorized sources place the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base their proposal.

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

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

All bids must be made on the required Bid Form (Exhibit I). All blank spaces for bid prices must be filled in, in ink or typewritten, and the form must be fully completed and executed when submitted. Failure to provide all of the requested information may cause the bid to be rejected as non-responsive. An official authorized to bind the firm to the terms and provisions of the bid must sign the bid form.

The Owner may waive any informalities or minor defects or reject any and all bids. Any bid may be withdrawn prior to the above scheduled time for the opening of bids or authorized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date specified shall not be considered. No bidder may withdraw a bid within ninety (90) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. Should there be reasons why the Contract cannot be awarded within the specified period, the time may be extended by mutual agreement between the Owner and the bidder.

Bidders must satisfy themselves of the existing conditions by examination of the site and a review of any drawings and specifications, including addenda. After bids have been submitted, the bidder shall not assert that there was a misunderstanding concerning the quantities of work or of the nature of the work to be done.

The Owner may make such investigations as he deems necessary to determine the ability of the bidder to perform the work and the bidder shall furnish to the Owner all such information and data for this purpose as the Owner may request. The Owner reserves the right to reject any bid if the evidence submitted by or investigation of such bidder fails to satisfy the Owner that such bidder is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and complete the work contemplated therein.

A conditional or qualified bid will not be accepted.

Award will be made as a whole to one bidder.

The Owner reserves the right to consider proposals or modification thereof received at any time before the award is made if such action is in the interest of the Owner.

All applicable laws, ordinances and rules and regulations of all authorities having jurisdiction over the construction of the project shall apply to the contract throughout.

Each bidder is responsible for inspecting the site and for reading and being thoroughly familiar with the Contract Documents. The failure or omission of any bidder to do any of the foregoing shall in no way relieve any bidder from any obligation in respect to his bid.

The Owner will not be liable for any costs incurred by any firm prior to the signing of a contract.

The low bidder must supply the names and addresses of major material suppliers and subcontractors when requested to do so by the Owner.

SECTION II

SCOPE OF SERVICES

Overview

1. Augusta, Georgia (Augusta) is soliciting bids for a qualified contractor to provide electromagnetic interference (EMI) consulting services.

2. The overall project includes evaluation and testing for the amount and source of EMI within the

Augusta 911 Center, located at 911 4th Street in Augusta, Georgia. Augusta is looking to investigate whether EMI is causing the failure of computer monitors at the operational positions within the 911

Center.

3. The successful Bidder must provide an efficient and proven set of testing and consulting services to ensure Augusta leverages the capabilities of its 911 Center and achieves its business goals.

4. Bidders are requested to provide a flat fee for testing, isolation, and consulting services for this project.

The final deliverable is a written report to Augusta.

5. Augusta will consider additional remediation services as an option for this project. Bidders are requested to provide hourly pricing for remediation services on the provided Bid Form (Exhibit 1).

Definitions

• Testing – Identifying the presence and level of EMI.

• Isolation – Identifying the source of EMI.

• Remediation Recommendations – Identifying and specifying potential shielding solutions to reduce EMI and prevent the negative effects of EMI on 911 Center operations.

• Remediation Services – Implementation of recommended solutions (e.g., adjustment of existing components and/or installation of additional components) to reduce EMI and prevent the negative effects of EMI on 911 Center operations.

• Additional Testing - Re-testing of the facility following remediation efforts or other adjustments.

Required Project Scope

All services will be performed in/for the Augusta 911 Center.

1. Testing for the presence of EMI.

2. Testing for the level of EMI.

3. If a damaging level of EMI is detected:

a. Isolation of the EMI source.

b. Identification of remediation solutions (e.g., shielding) to eliminate or reduce the EMI to satisfactory levels.

4. Required Deliverable: A detailed written report of findings, including test results and specific, actionable remediation recommendations.

Optional: Additional Services

If a damaging level of EMI is detected, Augusta may use remediation services and/or additional testing services at an additional hourly rate.

Project Management

1. The successful Bidder shall work closely with the Augusta Information Technology Department to ensure project planning, work, and final deliverables are in alignment with project goals.

2. A kick-off meeting shall be held to outline communication procedures and project planning. The kick-off meeting will be held no later than three weeks after contract award.

3. All documents, scopes of work, costs, and activities related to the project are expected to be included as part of the contract signed between Augusta and the chosen vendor. Change Order Management will be explicitly covered under the contract provisions to protect Augusta from unexpected costs and to protect the vendor from post-contract additions/requests from Augusta. As a general rule, it is expected that Augusta will have no additional expenses other than what is spelled out in the final contract.

4. All services will be provided entirely by the Bidder. Augusta desires one point of contact for support for the proposed services rather than dealing with multiple third-party vendors.

5. Prior to the issue of payment for services rendered, coverage testing must be completed. The testing team must be comprised of both vendor and designated Augusta personnel.

SECTION III

EXPECTED CONTRACT TERMS

1. As soon as possible, and within 90 days after receipt of proposals, Augusta will notify the successful Bidder (herein after called successful Bidder) of its intent to enter into a contract agreement subject to Augusta approval. Should Augusta require additional time to award a contract, the time may be extended by mutual agreement between Augusta and the successful Bidder. If an Award of Contract has not been made within 90 days from the proposal opening date or within the extension mutually agreed upon, the Bidder may withdraw the bid without further liability on the part of either party.

a. Within fifteen (15) days after selection, the successful Bidder will supply Augusta with three (3) signed original Contract Documents for execution. Attached to each document will be the certificate of insurance and proper licenses required by federal, state, or local authorities.

Within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Contract Documents, Augusta will return all the properly executed documents.

b. Should either party require an extension of any of the time limits stated above, mutual agreement between both parties is required.

2. The successful Bidder will not commence work under this contract until all insurance described below has been obtained and approved by Augusta.

a. Errors & Omissions The successful Bidder will hold Augusta harmless from any liability arising from acts of omissions of employers or Successful Bidder’s subcontractors and will furnish to Augusta certificates of insurance certifying that the successful Bidder is carrying errors and omissions or professional liability insurance with minimum limits of $1,000,000.00 per claim.

b. Certificates of Insurance:

Certificates acceptable to Augusta will be attached to the signed contract documents when they are transmitted to Augusta for execution. These certificates will contain the statement that "Coverage afforded under the policies will not be canceled unless at least thirty (30) days prior to cancellation written notice has been given to Augusta, as evidenced by receipts of Registered or Certified mail."

3. Quantities

None of the various County departments, agencies, or employees, individually or collectively, will be required to purchase any minimum or maximum amount during the life of any contract, or extension thereof, as a result of this Invitation to Bid.

4. Indemnification

The successful Bidder will indemnify and hold harmless Augusta and its agents and employees from and against all claims, damages, losses and expenses including attorneys' fees arising out of or resulting from the performance of the services, provided that any such claims, damage, loss or expense is attributable to bodily injury, sickness, disease or death, or to injury to or destruction of tangible property, including the loss of use resulting therefrom; and is caused in whole or in part by any negligent or willful act or omission of the successful Bidder and anyone directly or indirectly employed by the successful Bidder or anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable. In any and all claims against Augusta or any of its agents or employees, by any employee of the successful Bidder, directly or indirectly employed, or anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable, the indemnification obligation will not be limited in any way by any limitation on the amount or type of damages, compensation or benefits payable by or for Augusta or under the Worker's Compensation Acts, Disability Benefits Acts or other employee benefits acts.

5. Notice to Proceed

The Notice to Proceed will be issued within ten (10) days of the approval of the Contract Agreement by Augusta. If there are reasons the Notice to Proceed cannot be issued within this period, the time may be extended by mutual agreement between Augusta and the successful Bidder. If the Notice to Proceed has not been issued within the ten (10) day period or within the period mutually agreed upon, Augusta may terminate the Contract Agreement without further liability on the part of either party.

6. Suspension or Termination of Services

The anticipated contract between the successful Bidder and Augusta can be terminated based on:

a. County electing, in writing, not to exercise any of its option periods.

b. Failure of the successful Bidder to perform based on the successful Bidder’s bankruptcy, lack or loss of skilled personnel, or disregarding laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, or orders of any public body having jurisdiction. Should any single, multiple or all of the above conditions occur, Augusta has the authority to terminate the contract with written notice to the successful Bidder. The successful Bidder is liable for any losses occurring as a result of not abiding by the terms of the agreement.

c. Either party will have the right to voluntarily terminate this agreement at any time upon thirty (30) days advance written notice to the other party of its intention to terminate. All correspondence of this nature will be forwarded by certified or registered mail.

d. Any termination of the successful Bidder’s services will not affect any right of Augusta against the successful Bidder then existing or which may thereafter occur. Any retention of payment of monies by Augusta due to the successful Bidder will not release the Bidder from compliance with the Contract Documents.

7. Assignments

The Bidder will not assign the whole or any part of this Contract or any monies due or to become due hereunder without written consent of Augusta. In case the successful Bidder assigns all or any part of any monies due or to become due under this Contract, the instrument of assignment will contain a clause substantially to the effect that it is agreed that the right of the assignee in and to any monies due or to become due to the successful Bidder will be subject to prior liens of all persons, firms, and corporations for services rendered or…