25_300_RFP.pdf

RFP 25-300 State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services RFP Due: Tuesday, October 22, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m.

Request for Proposals

RFP Item #25-300

State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services

For

Augusta, Georgia – Administrator’s Office

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 and Seven (7) Copies of RFP shall be submitted

Thanks for doing business with us . . .

Geri A. Sams, Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901

Rev. 6/20/2024

Table of Contents

Request for Proposal

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

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program Ordinance Requirements

Request for Proposal Specifications

Request for Proposals

Request for Proposals will be received at this office until Tuesday, October 22, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m. via ZOOM Meeting ID: 825 6446 3701, Passcode: 25300 for furnishing:

RFP Item # 25-300 State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services for Augusta, GA Administrator’s Office

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

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

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, October 7, 2024 @ 2:00 p.m. via ZOOM – Meeting ID: 828 3979 2116;

Passcode: 25300.

All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Tuesday, October 8, 2024 @ 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 RFPs 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 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 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: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director

Publish:

Augusta Chronicle September 12, 19, 26, 2024 and October 3, 2024 Metro Courier September 12, 2024 cc Takiyah A. Douse Interim Administrator Natascha Dailey Administrator’s Office

Revised: 06/20/2024 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 # 25-300 – State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services for Augusta, GA - Administrative Office

Monday, October 7, 2024 @ 2:00 p.m.

ZOOM RFP Opening:

1. Click this URL to start or join Zoom: 828 3979 2116

2. Or go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 828 3979 2116

3. Passcode: 25300

RFP Opening - RFP Item # 25-300 - State Lobbying and Legislative Representation

Services for Augusta, GA - Administrative Office Tuesday, October 22, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m.

ZOOM RFP Opening:

4. Click this URL to start or join Zoom: 825 6446 3701

5. Or go to https://zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 825 6446 3701

6. Passcode: 25300 https://zoom.us/join

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this document is to

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

1.2 Viewing the Augusta Code: All proposals are

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

1.3 Compliance with laws: The Proponent shall

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

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

Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

1.6 Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE)

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

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

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

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

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

1.7 Augusta, Georgia License Requirement: For

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

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

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

1.8 Terms of Contract: (Check where

applicable)

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

[X] (C) Other http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685%20%20Guidelines%20&%20Procedures http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685%20%20Guidelines%20&%20Procedures http://www.augustaga.gov/

NOTICE TO ALL VENDORS

ADHERE TO THE BELOW INSTRUCTIONS AND DO NOT SUBSTITUTE FORMS

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

Attachment B is a consolidated document consisting of:

1. Business License Number Requirement (must be provided)

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

3. Statement of Non-Discrimination

4. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Prime Proponent/Offeror

5. Conflict of Interest

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

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

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

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

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

Contractors are defined as those who provide any “physical performance of services,” which means any performance of labor or services for a public employer using a bidding process or by contract that costs over $2,499.99 in value between December 1 and November 30 of any given year. Typically, eligible contracts may include: New construction or the demolition of structures/roads Routine operation, repair, and maintenance of existing structures. Any contracts for labor and service that exceed $2,499.99. Contracts for the purchase of goods without any services provided are not subject to these E-Verify requirements.

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

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

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

1. Georgia Security and Immigration Subcontractor Affidavit

2. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Sub-Contractor

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

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

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

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

Rev. 4/09/21

Attachment B

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

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

Name of Proponent: _______________________________________________________________________________

Street Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip Code: ______________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ______________________ Fax: __________________________Email: ________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Statement of Non-Discrimination

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Non-Collusion of Prime Proponent

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

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

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

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

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

Rev. 4/09/21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GEORGIA E-Verify and Public Contracts: The Georgia E-Verify law requires contractors and all sub-contractors on Georgia public contract (contracts with a government agency) for the physical performance of services over $2,499 in value to enroll in E-Verify, regardless of the number of employees. They may be exempt from this requirement if they have no employees and do not plan to hire employees for the purpose of completing any part of the public contract.

Certain professions are also exempt. All requests for proposals issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

** (E-Verify Number) _________________________________ ___________________________

Name of Contractor Name of Project / Bid Number

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – RICHMOND COUNTY CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT

Name of Public Employer

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

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

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

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

Notary Public My Commission Expires: NOTARY SEAL

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

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

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

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

Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program

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

[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 Page Only if Applicable.

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

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section Title

I. PROJECT AND GENERAL SUBMITTAL INFORMATION SUMMARY

II. BACKGROUND AND SCOPE OF WORK

BACKGROUND

SCOPE OF WORK

A. DESCRIPTION OF TASKS

B. RESULTS OR OUTCOME OF TASK

C. PERFORMANCE AND QUALITY STANDARDS

D. PROGRESS REPORTING

E. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

F. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY/SERVICES

G. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEM

H. ANY APPLICABLE REGULATIONS OR SPECIFICATIONS

III. OWNERSHIP OF DATA

IV. RESPONSE CONTENTS

A. PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS

AUGUSTA’S ATTACHMENT “B” FORM

FEDERAL WORK AUTHORIZATION PROGRAM

SYSTEMATIC ALIEN VERIFICATION FOR ENTITLEMENTS (SAVE) PROGRAM

B. QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE OF THE FIRM

C. ORGANIZATION & APPROACH

D. PROJECT MANAGEMENT

E. SCOPE OF SERVICES

F. FINANCIAL STABILITY

G. REFERENCES

H. FEE PROPOSAL

V. INDEMNIFICATION AMD INSURANCE AND PRE-SUBMITTAL CONFERENCE

VI. CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION

VII. SELECTION PROCESS

VIII. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

A. Standard City Contract B. Submittal Instructions C. Questions D. Acknowledgement of Addenda E. Proposal Duration F. Project Director/Contract Manager G. Expenses of Preparing Responses to this RFP H. Georgia Open Records Act

I. Business License J. Ethics Rules K. Right to Audit

IX AWARD OF CONTRACT

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment A: Proposal Cover Sheet Attachment B: Augusta’s Attachment “B” and S.A.V.E.

Attachment C: Contractor Reference and Release Form

Attachment D: Subcontractor Reference and Release Form

Attachment E Sample Contract

Attachment F: Certificate Of Corporate Resolution

Attachment G: Cost Proposal

Attachment H: Lobbyist State Registration

SECTION I

PROJECT AND GENERAL SUBMITTAL INFORMATION SUMMARY

Sealed proposals addressed Augusta, Georgia Consolidated Government (the “City”) to provide state lobbying and legislative representation services for the City will be received in the office of the Director of Procurement at 535 Telfair Street, Suite 605, Augusta, GA 30901 until Tuesday, October 22, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m. The RFP must be submitted in a sealed package and labeled with firm’s name and the name of the project - RFP 25-300 State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services. No RFP will be accepted by fax or email, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. Opening will be via ZOOM – Meeting ID: 825 6446 3701; Passcode 25300. No proposals will be accepted after that time.

The Proposer will submit one (1) marked unbound original and seven (7) copies of their RFP and one (1) marked unbound original of its fee proposal. Failure to follow the required format may result in your organization’s proposal being rejected as non-responsive to this process and ARC may exercise that right at its sole discretion. The successful proposal will have at a minimum, the following features:

• The proposal shall be no more than thirty (30) pages in length, excluding cover letter, required forms, tabs and appendices. All proposals shall be 8 ½ x 11 format with all standard test fonts no smaller than 12 points. The original will use one-sided copying and be bound by binder clip or some other non-permanent form of binding. Each of the seven (7) copies of the proposal shall be one sided copies and shall be spiral bound or bound with some other secure and permanent form of binding.

• An official authorized to bind the offeror must sign all statements. Any documents received after this time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the firm.

• Firms that wish to join in a consortium must designate one firm as principal or lead firm.

Consortiums will be evaluated according to the same requirements as a single firm.

• If the proposal includes any information in addition to the specific information requested in the RFP, it should be included as an appendix to the proposal

• Proposals should be prepared simply and economically, providing a straightforward, concise description of offeror’s capabilities to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. Text is to include information in which the firm shall describe the proposed work program as interpreted from the Scope of Services.

• The firms shall provide a FEE PROPOSAL that includes all items that are required to provide the services requested. No additional unapproved expenses will be paid by Augusta, Georgia in association with the execution of this project outside of the agreed upon fee proposal.

• Fee proposal must be sealed and placed in a separate sealed envelope labeled on the outside of the package to clearly indicate that it is a response to RFP 25-300 State Legislative Lobbying Service. All items related to cost will be placed in a separate sealed envelope.

• When in the best interest of Augusta, Georgia, Augusta reserves the right to request additional information and to request a “Best and Final” offer.

• The Augusta reserves the right to reject any and all responses and to waive any informalities as deemed to be in the best interest of Augusta and reserves the right to request additional information from a respondent(s) as deemed necessary to analyze responses.

• Each proposal will be evaluated using the criteria listed in RFP 25-300.

1.1 RECEIPT AND HANDLING OF PROPOSALS

The Firm assumes full responsibility for the timely delivery of the proposal to the designated location.

Proposals delivered to any other office or location will not be considered.

In accordance with Chapter 10 of the City’s Purchasing Ordinance, competitive sealed proposals Bid opening.

Sealed Bids shall be opened publicly via ZOOM as designated in the public notice and invitation for bids.

The amount of each bid, and such other relevant information as the Procurement Director deems appropriate, together with the name of each bidder shall be recorded; the record, and each bid, shall be open to public inspection in accordance with Section 1-10-5 (Public Access to Procurement Information).

Public access. Procurement information shall be considered public records to the extent required by the Georgia Open Records Act. A Request for Proposals (RFP) shall not become public record until the final contract is negotiated and awarded. Any financial, trade secrets or commercial data contained in Request for Proposals shall be considered privileged and confidential and shall not be disclosed. See the Trade Secret Affidavit – Page 10.

All work under this proposal will be performed at the sole cost and expense of the responder. Successful contractor will provide, perform and complete in the manner described and specified in this Request for Proposal all necessary work, labor, services, transportation, room & board, equipment, materials, apparatus, data and other items necessary to accomplish the Project as defined, in accordance with the Scope of Services (herein called services).

The Services will also include procuring and furnishing all approvals and authorizations, and certificates and policies of insurance as specified herein necessary to complete the Project. The respondent shall provide, perform and complete all the Services in a proper and workmanlike manner, consistent with the highest standards of professional practice, and in full compliance with all state and municipal regulations, and as required by or pursuant to this Request for Proposal.

The term of the contract for the requested services shall be for a period of three (3) years. The initial term of the contract shall be three hundred sixty-five (365) calendar days. The contract may be renewed for two

(2) successive three hundred sixty-five (365) terms at the same terms and conditions stated in the contract, for a total contract period of one thousand and ninety-five (1,095) calendar days.

The service request shall be on an as-needed basis and no work is guaranteed. All work requests are at the sole discretion of Augusta.

The services to be performed under the contract resulting from this RFP shall commence within ten (10) calendar days after receipt of written Notice to Proceed. The initial term of the contract shall be three hundred sixty-five (365) calendar days. The contract may be renewed for two (2) successive seven hundred thirty (730) calendar day term at the same terms and conditions stated in the contract, for a total contract period of one thousand and ninety-five (1,095) calendar days. The services shall commence within ten (10) calendar days after acknowledgement of receipt of written notice to proceed and shall be completed within.

Augusta reserves the right to make one (1) award or multiple awards.

1.2 PURPOSE

Augusta, Georgia is soliciting competitive sealed proposals (offers) for State Lobbying and Legislative Representation Services. Augusta desires to enter into a professional services contract with a qualified individual or firm who can demonstrate competency and experience in providing State lobbying services for municipal (consolidated) governments. The firms with a proven track record to provide professional consultant services in advocacy/lobbying at the State. The legislative services shall include, but not be limited to: scheduled, extended, or special legislative sessions and meetings; state administrative and agency hearings, meetings, or rule making proceedings; all in accordance with the terms, conditions, and scope of work outlined in this Request for Proposal (RFP). The services would begin on January 1, 2025.

1.3 SUBMITTAL OF QUESTIONS

All firms responding are cautioned to read this Request for Proposals (RFP) carefully for understanding and request clarification from Augusta, Georgia on any questions pertaining to this RFP. The Proposer should examine all documents and requirements of the services requested to become fully informed. Failure to examine these areas will not relieve the successful Proposer of its obligation to furnish all products and services necessary to carry out the provisions of the contract. After RFPs have been submitted, the vendor shall not assert that there was a misunderstanding concerning the quantities of work or of the nature of the work to be done.

All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Tuesday, October 8, 2024 @ 5:00 P.M. Issues and responses addressed in any other manner will not be considered valid or binding in consideration of proposals or any subsequent contract negotiations. Failure to provide all of the requested information may cause the submittal to be rejected as non-responsive.

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

RFP Packages may be obtained at the Augusta, Georgia Procurement Department, at the address listed above.

1.4 PROPOSAL SUBMITTALS

One (1) unbound original and seven (7) copies of the proposal marked “RFP 25-300, STATE LOBBYING AND LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION SERVICES” shall be submitted in a sealed envelope. These must be submitted to and received no later than 11:00 a.m. (local time), Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

1.5 AWARD

If Augusta Awards a contract, the contract will be awarded to the most responsive, responsible Firm whose offer is most responsive and responsible to Augusta, based upon the evaluation criteria specified in Evaluation and Award Section (Section VI and Section VII), results of the negotiations, and the final offer by the Firm. Thus, while the points in the evaluation criteria indicate their relative importance, the total scores will not necessarily be determinative of the award. Rather, the total scores will guide Augusta in making an intelligent award decision based on Augusta’s requirements and the best value proposal (offer) received.

1.6 CONTRACT

The successful Firm shall be required to complete a two-party standard form of contract. A sample contract (Attachment E) is attached.

1.7 NOTICE TO FIRMS

Companies not incorporated in the State of Georgia must be in compliance with the State of Georgia Code of Regulations, State Procurement Regulations, in order to enter into a contract with Augusta.

1.8 QUALIFICATIONS TO CONTRACT WITH PUBLIC BODY

The successful firm shall register as a lobbyist and present proof of fulfillment of the reporting requirements under O.C.G.A. §21-5-71 (2008).

1.9 EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH RESPONSE

Augusta will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by a Firm in preparing and submitting a proposal. All proposals shall provide a straightforward, concise delineation of the Firm’s capabilities to satisfy the requirements of this request. Emphasis should be on completeness and clarity of content.

1.10 REJECTION OF PROPOSALS

Augusta reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in part or in full and to waive any technicalities or informalities as may best serve the interests of Augusta.

1.11 DISABILITY INFORMATION

Any individuals with disabilities who would like to receive the information in this document in another form may contact the ADA Coordinator at (706) 821-2406.

1.12 FAILURE TO PROVIDE ALL OF THE REQUESTED INFORMATION

Failure to provide all of the requested information may cause the RFP to be rejected as non-responsive. An official authorized to bind the firm to the terms and provisions of the RFP must sign. The Proposer’s response must include a service proposal and fee proposal as well as all other information requested in this RFP. The fees must be the full cost to Augusta. Augusta, Georgia will consider the degree to which each Proposer has submitted a complete Service and Fee Proposal without irregularities, excisions, special conditions, or alternative proposals for any item unless specifically requested in the RFP.

The contract will be awarded, if awarded, to the most responsive and responsible Proposer. If an award of contract is made as a result of this solicitation, contract will be made on the basis of the response which best satisfies the intent of this Request for Proposals and other factors considered in the best interest of the Owner. Negotiations may be undertaken with those firms who Statements of Qualifications shows them to be qualified, responsible, and capable of performing the work.