25_174_RFP.pdf

RFP 25-174 Water Meters RFP Due: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m.

Request for Proposals

RFP Item #25-174

Water Meters

For

Augusta, Georgia – Augusta Utilities Department

Until further notice All RFP 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.

To Ensure Timely Deliveries, It Is The Responsibility Of The Vendor To Ensure Their Bid Submittal Is Received By The Time Specified Above. All Submittals MUST Be Received During Our Normal Office Hours From 8:30 A.M. To

5:00 P.M., Monday Through Friday. No Deliveries Will Be Accepted Prior To 8:30 A.M. Or After 5:00 P.M., As The Building Is Closed To The Public And Delivery Services Outside Of These Hours.

One Original, Seven (7) Copies and one (1) Electronic Version on USB Flash Drive Shall be Submitted

Thanks for doing business with us . . .

Darrell White, Interim Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901

Rev.9/26/2024

Table of Contents

Request for Proposal

Electronic Zoom Information

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

Trade Secret Status Affidavit

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program Ordinance Requirements

Request for Proposal Specifications

Minority and Woman Owned Business Enterprise Program (M/WBE) Goal Waiver

NO Response Letter

Request for Proposals

Request for Proposals will be received at this office until Wednesday, June 18, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m. via ZOOM Meeting ID: 829 5735 3775; Passcode: 25174 furnishing:

RFP Item #25-174 Water Meters for Augusta, GA – Augusta Utilities Department

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

Darrell White, Interim Procurement Director Augusta Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street - Room 605

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

Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025 @ 2:00 p.m. via ZOOM – Meeting ID: 886 8526 9799; Passcode:

25174. Optional site visit, Tuesday, June 3, 2025. Please contact Dean Meyer at (706) 312-4139 or dmeyer@augustaga.gov in advance for site visit.

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 Wednesday, June 4, 2025 @ 5:00 P.M. No RFP will be accepted by fax or email, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. To ensure timely deliveries, all submittals must be received during our normal office hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. No deliveries will be accepted prior to 8:30 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m., as the building is closed to the public and delivery services outside of these hours.

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

Request for proposals (RFP) and specifications. An RFP 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 proposal 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 Interim Procurement Director. All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Interim Procurement Director to the appropriate committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission. Please mark RFP 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.

Proponents are cautioned that acquisition of RFP documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of RFP 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: Darrell White, Interim Procurement Director 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

DARRELL WHITE, Interim Procurement Director

Publish:

Augusta Chronicle May 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025 Metro Courier May 8, 2025 cc Tameka Allen Administrator Wes Byne Augusta Utilities Department Dean Meyer Augusta Utilities Department

Revised: 10/02/2024 mailto:procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov http://gma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMjUwOTU1JnA9MSZ1PTUxODY3MTg3MiZsaT0yMTQ3NjI3Nw/index.html

PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT

ELECTRONIC ZOOM INFORMATION

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

ELECTRONIC RFP INSTRUCTIONS

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

Pre-Proposal Conference - RFP Item # 25-174 – Water Meters for Augusta, GA – Utilities Department Monday, June 2, 2025 @ 2:00 p.m.

ZOOM RFP Pre-Proposal Conference:

1. Click this URL to start or join Zoom:

https://augustaga-gov.zoom.us/j/86505778385?pwd=KaRfGX5uqFNtdFZOYBVwaPBI0Lttvi.1

2. Or go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 886 8526 9799;

3. Passcode: 25174

RFP Opening - RFP Item # 25-174 – Water Meters for Augusta, GA – Utilities Department

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m.

ZOOM RFP Opening:

4. Click this URL to start or join Zoom:

https://augustaga-gov.zoom.us/j/89856380239?pwd=TNKF0Kv0TAMYQkQ7fQMCzIhk4sZP1A.1

5. Or go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 829 5735 3775

6. Passcode: 25174 https://augustaga-gov.zoom.us/j/86505778385?pwd=KaRfGX5uqFNtdFZOYBVwaPBI0Lttvi.1 https://zoom.us/join https://zoom.us/join https://augustaga-gov.zoom.us/j/89856380239?pwd=TNKF0Kv0TAMYQkQ7fQMCzIhk4sZP1A.1

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 Proposal’s 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: Darrell White Interim Procurement Director

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

../AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/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:

Software and Integration Testing and Acceptance 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

[RFP 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

TRADE SECRET STATUS AFFIDAVIT

Augusta, Georgia

All documents, data, letters and generated information received by Augusta, Georgia constitutes a “public record” and is subject to disclosure under the Georgia Open Records Act ("GORA"). O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq. However, pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(34), "[an] entity submitting records containing trade secrets that wishes to keep such records confidential under this paragraph shall submit and attach to the records an affidavit affirmatively declaring that specific information in the records constitute trade secrets pursuant to Article 27 of Chapter 1 of Title 10 [O.C.G.A. § 10-1-760 et seq.].”

O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4) defines “Trade secret" as “…information, without regard to form, including, but not limited to, technical or nontechnical data, a formula, a pattern, a compilation, a program, a device, a method, a technique, a drawing, a process, financial data, financial plans, product plans, or a list of actual or potential customers or suppliers which is not commonly known by or available to the public and which information:

A. Derives economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and

B. Is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy.”

Therefore, the records listed below and attached hereto, that were submitted with _______________________response to Augusta, Georgia Request for Proposal, Request for Quote, or Request for Qualified Contractor ______________are marked confidential pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4):

• (List specific information that the supplier wishes to withhold and how that information constitutes a trade secret)

• Additional trade secret information requested to be withheld.

• Your company is requested to submit a redacted copy of your submittal.

Under penalty of perjury, acknowledging that O.C.G.A. §16-10-71 provides a penalty of a fine of up to $1,000 and potential imprisonment of one to five years, I attest that the specific information in the records listed above constitutes trade secrets pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4), and request that Augusta, Georgia not disclose this protected information under the Georgia Open Records Act ("GORA").

Signature:

[Signatory Name in Print] [Signatory’s Title] [Company Name]

_______________________________ Date: ______________________________________ [Signatory’s Title]

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN BEFORE

ME ON THIS ______ DAY OF

_____________, 202_.

__________________________________ My Commission Expires: ______________

NOTARY PUBLIC

Return form only if applicable. If form is not returned with your submittal, it will be deemed there are no trade secrets in your package submittal.

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program Ordinance Requirements

Notice To All Bidders (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY) Shall apply to ALL Bids regardless of the dollar amount In accordance with the Commission Action on 7/25/24 and the adoption of Ordinance No. 7945 Chapter 10C of the AUGUSTA, GA, CODE, Contractors agree to collect and maintain all records necessary to Augusta, Georgia to evaluate the effectiveness of its Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program and to make such records available to Augusta, Georgia upon request. The requirements of the Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise 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 Compliance 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 M/WBE Program office at (706) 821-2406. Failure to provide such reports withing 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.

SHALL APPLY TO PROJECTS IN EXCESS OF $300,000

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program (Continued) Sec. 1-10-138. Race and Gender-Conscious Efforts Contract-by-Contract Subcontractor Goals The City, through the Goal Setting Committee (GSC), will set specific, separate percentage-based MBE and WBE subcontracting goals on a contract-by contract basis for Prime contracts in Construction, Architecture & Engineering, Professional Services, and Other Services valued in excess of $300,000. The City shall establish such goals based upon the type of contract, the type of subcontracting work that will be required, and the availability of M/WBE firms to perform the work for that specific contract.

The GSC shall not establish subcontracting goals on contracts where (a) there are no subcontracting opportunities identified for the contract; or (b) there are not at least three (3) MBE and/or WBE firms that are available and capable to perform a CUF for the overall subcontracting opportunities on the contract.

Good Faith Efforts (GFE) Requirements and Guidance 1.Achievement of subcontracting goals or documentation of Good Faith Efforts applies to every Contract for which such goals are established. The Bidder shall submit a compliance plan detailing its achievement of the goals or its Good Faith Efforts to meet the goals. The compliance plan shall be due at the time set out in the solicitation documents.

2.When a Bidder cannot achieve the goals, its compliance plan shall document its GFE to achieve the goals. The Director of Compliance will determine whether the Bidder has made such GFE.

Bid Documents 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.

• Proposed Letter of Intent MBE/WBE.

• Proposed MBE/WBE Utilization Plan.

• Documentation of Good Faith Efforts Form (in the event the bidder will not meet the MBE and WBE goals).

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

Sec. 1-10-154.Exceptions In accordance with § 1-10-8, on federally funded projects or contracts, the M/WBE Program shall only be utilized when authorized by the applicable federal (and/or Georgia) laws, regulations, and conditions relating to that project or contract. To the extent that there are any conflicts between any such laws, regulations, or conditions and the provisions of the M/WBE Program, the federal (and/or Georgia) guidance shall control.

NOTE: All forms should be submitted in a separate, sealed envelope, labeled M/WBE Forms, Company’s Name & Bud number

For questions and or additional information, please contact:

Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Program 535 Telfair Street, Suite 530

Augusta, Georgia 30901

(706) 821-2406 mwbe@augustaga.gov Website: https://www.augustaga.gov/83/Disadvantaged- Business-Enterprise

REV. 9/6/24

http://www.augustaga.gov/ http://www.augustaga.gov/ mailto:mwbe@augustaga.gov https://www.augustaga.gov/83/Disadvantaged-Business-Enterprise https://www.augustaga.gov/83/Disadvantaged-Business-Enterprise

Table of Contents

Section 1 - Purpose of the Request For Proposals 13

Section 2 - Instructions To Proposers 16

Section 3 – Technical Specifications 25

3.1 Specifications For 5/8 x 3/4 To 2 Inch Positive Displacement Cold Water Meters 25

3.2 Specifications For 5/8 x 3/4 To 8 Inch Type 1 Solid State Cold Water Meters 30

3.3 Specifications For 2 To 12 Inch Type 2 Solid State Cold Water Meters 35

3.4 Specifications For 3 Inch Fire Hydrant Meters 40

3.5 Specifications for 5/8 x 3/4 To 1.5 Inch Remote Shutoff Cold Water Meters 43

Appendix A: Evaluation Criteria 44

Appendix B: Current Augusta Meter Distribution 50

Appendix C: Service Locations 51

Appendix D: Cost Proposal 52

1. Purpose of the Request for Proposals

1.1 Introduction

Augusta, Georgia (Augusta) intends to purchase replacement water meters for all of the more than 70,000 meters in our distribution system as part of our implementation of AMI. An AMI Vendor has been previously identified as the supplier for this AMI network through a competitive bid process. The Augusta Utilities Directorate (AUD) has determined that AMI is the most practical technology for Augusta and expects to achieve a number of benefits, including:

• Increase meter reader safety

• Reduce costs associated with reading water meter

• Minimize errors in reading meters and customer billing

It is not the intent of this request to solicit proposals to purchase or replace AMI components or network equipment or for installation services, but to solicit proposals for long-term contracts to purchase water meters compatible with our AMI network and distribution system. To that end these specifications require qualified water meters and qualified encoder registers. Detailed specifications for meters and registers are found in the appropriate sections below.

All interested and qualified firms are invited to submit a formal proposal to accomplish the Scope of Work described herein, in conformance with the prescribed format. The proposal is to be signed by a principal of the firm authorized to make decisions on behalf of the firm.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of information in the RFP, we recognize that the information may not be complete in every detail and that all work may not be expressly mentioned in these specifications. It is the responsibility of the proposing entity to include in their proposal all pertinent information in accordance with the objectives of Augusta and to clearly identify exceptions taken to the requested information.

As represented in this proposal, there are five (5) separate categories.

1. 5/8 x 3/4 to 2 Inch PD Meters

2. 5/8 x 3/4 to 8 Inch Type 1 Solid State Meters

3. 2 to 12 Inch Type 2 Solid State Meters

4. 3 Inch Aluminum Fire Hydrant Meters

5. 5/8 x 3/4 to 1.5 Inch Remote Shut Off Capable Meters

Proposers are not required to submit on all categories. Proposer you may choose to respond to any or all categories, however proposers must include all items within a category to be considered for that category.

Each category will have an individual evaluation scoring. If a proposer does not have the exact requested item or they do not manufacture the exact requested item, they may state so and offer a substitute. In this case the items the proposer does offer will be considered. Failure to offer a substitute will be considered a non-compliant proposal. Augusta’s intent is to identify a single proposer for each category to supply meters for that category.

Augusta reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Any objections to the specifications set forth in this RFP should be filed in writing prior to the opening of proposals. Please mark the proposal number and item on the outside of your sealed envelope(s).

1.2 Background

AUD provides drinking water to the residents of Augusta, Georgia. Approximately 70% of the current meters are made by Badger. Approximately 10,000 meters have been replaced within the last five years. While AUD currently uses a combination of manual and drive-by reading for billing, we are in the process of implementing an AMI solution.

AUD uses Systems & Software’s enQuesta (version 6) for the billing system.

AUD uses Cityworks AMS (server version 15.8.9 and mobile version 11, as of May 2025) for work order management, integrated with the Augusta GIS as the master catalog of assets. AUD is in the process of upgrading to ArcPro for GIS

1.3 Scope of Services

This request for proposals is part of a larger project currently underway to transition the Augusta Water Utility from Manual and AMR reading to AMI. AUD plans for this project to take approximately 5 years and encompass all of the more than 70,000 meters in service. This RFP does not include any network services or installation services, it is solely for the procurement of water meters and associated parts over the expected life of the project.

Pricing requirements stated in the RFP are based on this timeframe and the desire for AUD to avoid disruption during the project. Proposers should be aware of and plan for the project duration in their proposals. The quantities given are based on approximate requirements. It is possible a larger or smaller quantity of some items may be ordered.

Prices must remain effective for a minimum of three (3) years from the date of award with the options to extend for two (2) additional one (1) year terms totaling five (5) years. Vendor is to supply an escalation percentage for the two (2) one (1)-year extension options. Any percentage increase for each of the two one-year options shall be included in the fee proposal.

Successful proposer must have a current and valid business license.

1.4 Basic Meter Requirements

1. 5/8 x 3/4 to 1.5 Inch PD Meters Product and pricing shall include a qualified water meter and absolute encoder register. AUD provides strainers for all meters as appropriate and in compliance with our engineering design documents, proposers do not need to include strainers in pricing for meters.

2. 5/8 x 3/4 to 8 Inch Type 1 Solid State Meters Product and pricing shall include a qualified water meter and absolute encoder register. AUD provides strainers for all meters as appropriate and in compliance with our engineering design documents, proposers do not need to include strainers in pricing for meters. AUD will only accept ultrasonic meters for all meters in this category.

3. 2 to 12 Inch Type 2 Solid State Meters Product and pricing shall include a qualified water meter and absolute encoder register. AUD provides strainers for all meters as appropriate and in compliance with our engineering design documents, proposers do not need to include strainers in pricing for meters. AUD strongly prefers ultrasonic meters for all meters in this category but is willing to accept electromagnetic meters or other solid state meter technologies for sizes above 8 inches.

Product and pricing shall include a qualified water meter and an absolute encoder register. AUD will accept either PD or Solid State meters in this category. AUD provides strainers for all installations, so proposers do not need to include strainers in this category. The meter shall be capable of providing readings via Augusta’s AMI network.

5. 5/8 x 3/4 to 1.5 Inch Remote Operation Meters Product and pricing shall include a qualified water meter and absolute encoder register. AUD may purchase a limited number of Solid State meters capable of remote turn on/off operation. Meters must comply with all specifications for Solid State meters as appropriate.

All meters, registers, pipes, pipe fittings, connectors, and other meter related components shall comply with “Use of Lead Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder, and Flux for Drinking Water”, Subpart B §§143.10 - 143.20, 42 U.S.C. 300g-6 and 200j-21.

Enclosed in this package are the AUD water meter specifications. Any and all exceptions to these specifications must be made in writing and included in your sealed proposal.

1.5 Proposal Pricing Requirements

The following costs shall be included in all proposals for each specification:

• Cost of delivery of fully assembled and ready to use water meters to AUD at 1840 Wylds Road, Augusta GA 30906

• All costs involved in normal pre-delivery servicing and inspection

Prices must remain effective for a minimum of three (3) years from the date of award with the options to extend for two (2) additional one (1) year terms totaling five (5) years. Vendor is to supply an escalation percentage for the two (2) one (1)-year extension options. Any percentage increase for each of the two one-year options shall be included in the fee proposal.

The quantities noted in the RFP are based on current approximate requirements. The orders will be placed on an as needed basis, AUD does not intend to provide large scale warehousing of materials associated with this RFP so the proposer must be capable of providing meters on a regularly scheduled basis to Augusta aligned with our overall project goals.

Augusta will engage in contract negotiations in each of the four categories with the proposer whose proposal is determined to be most advantageous to Augusta. Price is only one of multiple factors that will be considered by Augusta in making determinations.

Proposal pricing will be completed for each category the proposer wishes to submit a proposal for using the worksheet described in Appendix D. No pricing information shall be discussed or provided in any other section of the RFP response; failure to comply with this requirement shall result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive.

Price- One (1) unbound original Cost Proposal and one (1) electronic copy of cost proposal on USB flash drive are to be submitted in a separately sealed envelope with the following information on the outside of it: Fee Proposal for RFP 25-174 Water Meters. Electronic versions of the pricing must be submitted in Excel format.

Electronic versions of the pricing must be submitted in Excel format.

2. Instructions to Proposers

2.1 Obligations of Proposers

AUD assumes no responsibility for any costs incurred by any Proposer in responding to this RFP. Your good faith response assumes the requested information is solicited without the creation of any obligation between parties, explicit or implied. Augusta will conduct a thorough investigation and evaluation of all responses.

2.2 Pre-Proposal Conference

A virtual pre-proposal conference call will be held on June 2nd, 2025 at 2:00 PM Eastern time via Zoom. Meeting ID: 886 8526 9799; Passcode: 25174. Representatives from AUD and Augusta Procurement will be available for discussion and questions during the conference. The purpose of the conference is to provide assistance in the interpretation of the RFP and answer other technical or contractual matters.

Proposers are required to submit an email notification of their intention to attend the conference including the names of those planning to attend. Notification shall be sent at least one week prior to the conference to the office of the Director of Procurement at procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov.

Nothing stated or discussed during the course of this conference shall be construed to modify, alter, or change the requirements of the RFP unless it shall be subsequently incorporated into an addendum to the RFP. All questions asked during the conference deemed pertinent by Augusta shall be addressed in an addendum following the conference.

2.3 Tentative Proposal Selection Schedule

Activity Date RFP Issued 05/08/2025 Pre-Proposal Conference 06/02/2025 Deadline for Questions to Augusta 06/04/2025 Proposals Due 06/18/2025 Preferred Proposals Selected 6/26/2025 Vote of Acceptance from Augusta Commission 8/5/2025 Award and Notice to Proceed 8/8/2025

2.4 Preparation and Submission of Proposals

Proposals with pricing information must be submitted in the prescribed format. Failure to comply with directions in this RFP or omission of requested information could result in disqualification of a proposal. Proposals are to be submitted in a sealed envelope, clearly marked in the lower left-hand corner:

“Proposal – RFP 25-174 Water Meters”

The following exhibits (Thumb Drive), together with this document, will serve as a basis for your proposal:

The following exhibits are included on the Thumb Drive provided with the specifications:

RFP 25-174 Water Meters Specifications

Appendix B - Current Augusta Meter Distribution Appendix C - Service Location

Appendix D - Cost Proposal

Proposals and pricing to be submitted to:

The Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Darrell White 535 Telfair St., Suite 605 Augusta, GA 30901

One (1) un-bound original and seven (7) copies and one (1) electronic copy on USB flash drives are to be submitted and must be received at the Procurement Department office no later than Wednesday, June 18, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m. Submit in a separately sealed envelope one (1) unbound original Cost Proposal and one (1) electronic copy on USB flash drive. Failure to conform to this requirement may be grounds for disqualification.

Absolutely no Proposals…