26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System.pdf

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 1

CITY OF FLOWERY BRANCH

Request for Proposals

RFP No. 26-010

SCADA SYSTEM EQUIPMENT UPGRADE FOR WATER SYSTEM

RFP Release: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 9:30 a.m. EST.

RFP Questions Deadline: Friday, June 5, 2026, 11:00 a.m. EST.

RFP Due Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026, 2:00 p.m. EST.

Postal Return and/or Courier Delivery Address:

City of Flowery Branch Finance Department

5410 Pine Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BACKGROUND

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

CORRESPONDENT

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING

QUESTIONS

RESPONSE DATE AND LOCATION

PROPOSED SCHEDULE:

SCOPE OF WORK

SCADA SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

SUMMARY

QUALIFICATIONS

RESPONDENT RESPONSIBILITY

LIABILITY AND INSURANCE

REQUIREMENTS / EVALUATION CRITERIA

AWARD AND EXECUTION

GENERAL CONDITIONS

CERTIFICATION

ADDENDUM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT

NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

SOLICITATION LABEL

SAMPLE CONTRACT DOCUMENTS

AMERICAN IRON AND STEEL SPECIAL CONDITIONS AND INFORMATION

GEFA SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL CONDITIONS

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 3

BACKGROUND

Located on Lake Lanier and just over forty miles from Atlanta, Flowery Branch has maintained a picturesque historic downtown. Recent investment, including streetscape improvements and a revitalized train depot, is beginning to revitalize the downtown area, known as “Old Town.” Many of the original buildings in the historic central business district still exist and have been rehabilitated and repurposed.

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

The City of Flowery Branch, Georgia (henceforth referred to as the "City"), is soliciting proposals from qualified Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Integrators to provide both ongoing/as-needed SCADA maintenance and advisory services, and to perform capital improvements on/for the City’s existing SCADA system. The project includes the City’s SCADA monitoring and control system at one (1) office location, with Remote Telemetry Units (RTUs) at one (1) booster pump station, two (2) elevated tank sites, and one (1) well house site.

The selected Integrator will be required to coordinate all SCADA system design, installation, and configuration with the City’s Information Technology (IT) Department to ensure network security, proper firewall configuration, and secure remote access in accordance with industry cybersecurity best practices.

The selected Respondent will be required to execute the City’s standard Professional Services Agreement, included at the end of this document. The City anticipates executing two separate contracts: A one-time contract for the SCADA system equipment upgrade, and a separate contract for recurring annual maintenance and service.

This project will be funded through the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), and all applicable State and Federal requirements will apply.

Respondents must review and adhere to all GEFA-related special conditions and supplemental requirements, including the Supplemental General Conditions (Attachment A) and American Iron and Steel Special Conditions and Information (Attachment B).

CORRESPONDENT

Upon release of this Solicitation, all Respondent communications concerning this acquisition must be directed to the Finance Department contact listed below:

City of Flowery Branch Attn: Nancy Rodriguez

5410 Pine Street, Flowery Branch, GA. 30542 Phone: (770-967-6371) ext. 111

Nrodriguez@flowerybranchga.org

Unauthorized contact regarding this Solicitation with any other City of Flowery Branch employee may result in disqualification. Any oral communications will be considered unofficial and non-binding on the City.

Respondents should rely solely on written statements issued by the City’s designated contact.

mailto:Nrodriguez@flowerybranchga.org

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 4

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING:

A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. EST at 5410 Pine Street, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. Attendance is required for all interested Respondents. Questions may be provided during the pre‑bid meeting or submitted in writing no later than the question deadline noted above.

Following the meeting at City Hall, Respondents will be required to travel to three (3) additional sites: the Well Building, Booster Pump Building and the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

QUESTIONS

All questions must be submitted in writing to the contact named above. Questions must be received by 11:00 a.m. EST on Friday, June 5, 2026. Questions asked verbally during the pre-bid meeting will be documented by the City and included in the official list of questions and answers. However, any oral responses provided during the meeting will be considered unofficial and non-binding. Only the written responses issued by the City after the question deadline will be considered official. A list of questions and answers will be posted on the city website at www.flowerybranchga.org/BIDs and on the Georgia Procurement Registry (GPR).

RESPONSE DATE AND LOCATION

The Finance Department must receive the Respondent’s submission in a sealed envelope, in its entirety, no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 5410 Pine Street, Flowery Branch, Georgia. Submissions received after the deadline will be returned unopened to the sender. All submissions and accompanying documentation will become the property of the City of Flowery Branch and will not be returned. Submissions must be clearly marked on the outside of the package with the required Solicitation Label.

Respondents assume all risks associated with their chosen method of delivery. The City of Flowery Branch is not responsible for delays caused by any delivery service. A postmark by the due date will not substitute for actual receipt of the submission. Late submissions will not be accepted, nor will additional time be granted to any Respondent. Submissions may not be delivered by facsimile, other telecommunication methods, or solely by electronic means.

PROPOSED SCHEDULE:

Release: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 9:30 a.m. EST

Questions Deadline: Friday, June 5, 2026, 11:00 a.m. EST.

Due Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026, 2:00 p.m. EST.

City Council Award of Contract: TBD Contract Effective Date TBD

SCOPE OF WORK

The general scope outlined below describes the anticipated services. The selected Integrator will be responsible for providing a complete and comprehensive design and installation that meets the City’s monitoring and control objectives. The work shall include furnishing all necessary materials, equipment, services, and training to deliver a fully operational SCADA system.

1. Ongoing SCADA/CSI Maintenance Services (funded via local funds) http://www.flowerybranchga.org/BIDs

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 5

2. Capital Improvements to SCADA system (funded by GEFA funds and subject to GEFA requirements).

SCADA SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

I. Flowery Branch Utility Department

The work for this portion shall consist of furnishing all labor, materials, and equipment necessary to design, upgrade, and implement SCADA monitoring and controls at one (1) office location, with integration into the upgraded SCADA system as described below:

a. Provide SCADA computer hardware and software along with programming services to upgrade the existing SCADA system within the wastewater plant office.

b. Provide new realistic and process view graphics displays to replace all existing graphic displays and perform a complete “point-to-point” I/O checkout for all input and output signals from the field device, through the remote or local PLC and through the SCADA system database, new graphics displays, alarming subsystems, reporting subsystems, and trending subsystems.

c. Provide a new workstation to run a standalone version of the SCADA software that will eventually replace the existing client's workstation. Once the system is fully swapped over, the existing client workstation should no longer be required.

II. Collection & Distribution SCADA Sites

The work under this item shall include all equipment, materials, and services required to furnish and install cellular SCADA connections to one (1) booster pump station, (1) ground tank one (1) elevated tank and two (2) well house sites with a connection into the upgraded SCADA systems to be supplied under the other items listed above, as described below.

A. Provide a complete stand-alone alarm and SCADA system with a cellular data interface, capable of monitoring and/or controlling pumps, tank levels, run status, pressures, and related operational parameters.

B. Ensure that all remote stations report to the new SCADA system hardware being installed at the City of Flowery Branch Wastewater Plant.

C. Furnish and install new cellular-based remote telemetry units at each site.

III. System Functional Description, Water Supply Wells, Ground Storage Tank, Booster Pump

Station, and Elevated Storage Integration

A. System Overview

i. The system consists of multiple groundwater wells, a ground storage tank, a booster pump station, and an elevated storage tank (250K-gallon water tower). The existing SCADA system provides limited visibility and control. This project expands system functionality to support additional wells, upgraded SCADA computer and software, improved level measurement, coordinated control between wells and booster pumps, and enhanced SCADA monitoring, alarming, and operator control. The upgraded system will utilize cellular communications to increase reliability.

ii. The upgraded system shall ensure reliable, fail-safe operation, coordinated sequencing between system components, and improved situational awareness for operators and administrators.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 6

B. Ground Tank and Existing Wells (Wells 1 & 3)

i. Existing Configuration

• Two existing wells pump into a ground storage tank.

• The well depths are not visible, and no trends are available on SCADA

• Well operation is currently controlled by float switches located in the ground tank.

• The existing SCADA system displays limited information.

ii. New Requirements

• A continuous level transmitter shall be installed in the ground tank.

• Ground tank level shall be displayed on the new SCADA system in real time.

• Wells shall operate primarily based on the analog level transmitter, with existing float switches retained as backup control and safety devices.

• Existing wells must have their level transducers read out on SCADA with trending data.

• SCADA shall provide visibility of:

a. Ground tank level

b. Well run status

c. Well fault/alarm status

d. Operators shall be able to place wells in Hand / Off / Auto mode from

SCADA, subject to interlocks.

C. Booster Pump Station

Operators shall be able to start and stop booster pumps from SCADA, subject to local safety and interlocks.

The booster pump control panel shall be designed to operate independently of SCADA.

Loss of SCADA communications shall not prevent normal booster pump operation.

The SCADA integrator shall coordinate with the booster pump panel vendor to ensure fail-safe standalone operation.

i. Existing Equipment

• Four (4) booster pumps.

• Existing RTU in place.

• Discrete I/O available.

• Run status feedback (DI)

• Start/Stop commands (DO)

ii. Functional Requirements

SCADA shall display:

a. Which booster pump is running

b. Individual pump fault/alarm status

c. Overall booster station running status

D. Elevated Storage Tank (250K-Gallon Water Tower)

i. Existing Level Measurement

• Existing Rosemount pressure gauge located in the well house.

• Signal is currently used by the booster pump station and SCADA as a level reference.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 7

ii. New Level Measurement and Control

• A primary Rosemount pressure transmitter shall be installed in the valve vault adjacent to the 250-gallon tank.

iii. This transmitter shall provide continuous level indication to:

• SCADA

• Booster pump control logic

iv. The existing pressure gauge at the well building shall remain in service as a backup level source.

• SCADA shall include a selectable switch to choose Primary or Backup level signal.

v. Control Logic

• The primary level transmitter shall control booster pump start/stop logic.

• System logic shall ensure proper sequencing based on tank level thresholds.

E. System Coordination and Interlocks

The system shall operate under the following coordinated control rules

i. Tank Full

• Booster pumps OFF

ii. Tank Drops to Filling Level (~7 ft from Full)

• Booster pumps turn ON

iii. SCADA System Enhancements The new SCADA system shall provide full system visibility and control, including:

• Real-Time Displays

• All two (2) wells

• All four (4) booster pumps

• Ground tank level

• Elevated tank level

• System pressure

iv. Operator Controls

• Hand / Off / Auto selection for wells and booster pumps

• Administrative control for interlock overrides

v. Alarming and Setpoints

Configurable alarm setpoints for:

• Tank levels

• Pump faults

• Communication failures

• Alarm acknowledgment and historical logging

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 8

IV. Information Technology

The selected Integrator shall coordinate all network architecture, remote communications, cybersecurity considerations, and SCADA server configurations with the City of Flowery Branch Information Technology (IT) Department.

No SCADA equipment shall be installed on the City network without review and approval by the City’s IT personnel.

The Integrator shall design the SCADA system in coordination with the City’s IT staff and in accordance with recognized industrial cybersecurity best practices. The Integrator shall coordinate with the City’s IT Department to ensure proper firewall configuration, secure remote access, and protection against unauthorized access to the SCADA network.

A. SCADA Platform The Integrator shall identify the proposed SCADA platform, including HMI software, PLC hardware, and communications architecture. The City reserves the right to review and approve the selected platform prior to final system design.

i. The Integrator shall provide complete system documentation including:

a. Network architecture diagrams

b. PLC logic documentation

c. SCADA database/tag list

d. Operator manuals

e. Backup copies of all programming and configuration files

B. Software Licensing

Respondents must clearly identify all software licensing associated with the proposed SCADA system, including:

• SCADA/HMI software licenses

• Tag count limitations

• Client workstation licenses

• Historian or reporting software licenses

• Annual maintenance or subscription costs

All initial licensing required for system operation shall be included in the SCADA System Upgrade cost.

Respondents must disclose any recurring licensing fees associated with the system.

V. Ownership of Programming and System Files

Upon completion of the project, the City shall receive full ownership of all system configuration files and programming developed for the project, including:

• PLC source code

• SCADA application files

• HMI graphics

• Tag databases

• Alarm configuration files

• System documentation

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 9

The Integrator shall provide the City with electronic backup copies of all programming and configuration files.

No passwords, encryption, or licensing restrictions shall prevent the City or a future integrator from accessing or modifying the system.

The City shall retain the right to use, modify, maintain, and expand the SCADA system without restriction.

VI. System Integration and Programming

The Integrator shall provide complete system integration and programming services necessary to deliver a fully operational SCADA system. This shall include, but not be limited to:

• PLC programming and configuration

• SCADA database configuration and tag development

• Development of all HMI graphics displays

• Alarm configuration and alarm notification setup

• Historical data trending configuration

• Communications configuration between all PLCs, RTUs, and the central SCADA system

• System testing and commissioning

• On-site operator and administrative training for City personnel following system commissioning

All programming and configuration required to deliver a fully functional system shall be included in the proposal price.

VII. Summary

This project delivers a comprehensive modernization of the City’s water system SCADA infrastructure, improving reliability, operational awareness, and coordinated control across all wells, tanks, and pumping facilities by:

i. Upgrading SCADA hardware, software, graphics, and databases to provide a unified, modern monitoring and control platform

ii. Implementing new cellular-based telemetry at remote sites to increase communication reliability and system visibility

iii. Integrating wells, ground storage, booster pumps, and elevated storage into a coordinated control strategy with clear interlocks and fail-safe standalone operation

iv. Enhancing level measurement through new continuous transmitters, redundant sensing, and improved trending and alarming

v. Expanding operator control capabilities, including Hand/Off/Auto selection, alarm acknowledgment, configurable setpoints, and administrative overrides

vi. Strengthening cybersecurity and IT alignment through coordinated network design, secure remote access, and documented system architecture

vii. Ensuring long-term maintainability by providing full ownership of all programming, configuration files, and documentation to the City

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 10

The completed system will provide operators with a clear, intuitive, and real-time view of system conditions while maintaining robust automatic control, improved reliability, and protection against unsafe or abnormal operating conditions.

VIII. Qualifications

Firms submitting Statements of Qualifications must meet the following minimum requirements.

Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification from further consideration.

A. Experience

• Proven experience in SCADA system design, installation, and integration for municipal water and wastewater utilities.

• Completion of at least seven (7) SCADA projects of similar scope within the past fifteen (15) years, preferably in Georgia or the Southern United States.

B. Project Team

• A qualified project team that includes licensed Professional Engineers, degreed engineers, and certified SCADA technicians, as applicable.

• Ability to provide ongoing service and maintenance support following system installation.

• The Integrator shall demonstrate the ability to provide emergency service response within four (4) hours for SCADA system failures affecting water system operations following system installation..

C. Technical Capability

• On-site panel shop capability to design and assemble control panels in-house.

• Ability to provide one spare part for each type of module, power supply, PLC processor, and cellular modem/router used in the system.

D. Licenses and Certifications

• Possession of all required licenses and certifications, including but not limited to:

i. Engineering Certificate of Authorization (COA)

ii. Electrical Contractor License

iii. Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) Certification

• Adequate insurance coverage with the capacity to list the City and the Engineer as additional insureds.

E. Compliance

• Confirmation of compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including

Georgia procurement requirements.

• Ability to comply with all GEFA-related federal requirements, including the GEFA

Supplemental General Conditions (Attachment A) and American Iron and Steel (AIS) Requirements (Attachment B).

• Disclosure of any conflicts of interest or litigation related to similar projects.

F. References

• At least seven (7) client references for SCADA projects of similar scope completed within the past fifteen (15) years, preferably in Georgia or the Southern United States.

RESPONDENT RESPONSIBILITY

When determining whether a Respondent is qualified, or when evaluating a submission, the following factors may be considered, any one of which will suffice to determine whether a Respondent is qualified or whether the submission is most advantageous to the City:

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 11

A. The ability, capacity, and skill of the Respondent to perform the contract or provide the required equipment and/or services.

B. The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience, and efficiency of the Respondent.

C. Whether the Respondent can perform the contract within the time specified.

D. The quality of performance of previous public and private contracts or services, including, but not limited to, Respondent’s failure to perform satisfactorily or complete any written contract. The City’s termination for default of a previous contract with a Respondent, within the past three years, shall be deemed to be such a failure.

E. The previous and existing compliance by the Respondent with laws relating to the contract or service.

F. Evidence of collusion with any other Respondent, in which case colluding Respondent will be restricted from submitting further response on the subject project or future solicitations, for a period not less than three years.

G. All employees, subcontractors or vendors performing services in any City-owned building must be submitted to pass a thorough criminal background investigation with no convictions, other than minor traffic violations.

H. The Respondent has been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude or any felony, excepting convictions that have been pardoned, expunged, or annulled, whether in this state, in any other state, by the United States, or in a foreign country, province or municipality. The Respondent shall affirmatively disclose to the City all such convictions, especially of management personnel or the Respondent as an entity, prior to the notice of award or execution of a contract, whichever comes first. Failure to make such affirmative disclosure shall be grounds, in the City’s sole opinion and discretion, for termination for default subsequent to the award or execution of the contract.

I. If the Respondent will be unable, financially, or otherwise, to perform the work.

J. At the time of the solicitation opening, the Respondent is not authorized to do business in Georgia, or otherwise lacks a necessary license, registration, or permit.

K. Any other reason deemed proper by the City.

LIABILITY AND INSURANCE

During the performance of the duties outlined in the Scope of Work of this solicitation, the successful Respondent shall procure the following insurance, which shall be full coverage insurance not subject to self-insurance provisions, except for vehicle collision insurance and comprehensive automobile coverage and shall not, of the Respondent’s initiative, cause such insurance to be cancelled or materially altered during the contract term. The Respondent must provide evidence, satisfactory to the City, of the following insurance requirements:

A. Owner requires the Respondent to have and maintain the following insurance coverage and indemnification provisions with the City of Flowery Branch named as an additional insured hereunder.

B. The Respondent agrees to provide and maintain insurance coverage until the contract is completed and to furnish certificates from its insurance carriers showing that it carries insurance in the following minimum limits:

Workers’ Compensation Statutory Minimum General Liability $1,000,000/incident

$3,000,000 aggregate

Architects and Engineers Professional Liability $2,000,000/incident $2,000,000 aggregate

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 12

C. PROOF OF INSURANCE

The Respondent shall furnish the Owner with certificates showing the type, amount, class of operations covered, effective dates, and date of expiration of policies. Such certificates shall also contain substantially the following statement: The insurance covered by this certificate will not be cancelled or materially altered, except after thirty (30) days written notice has been received by the Owner.

D. INDEMNIFICATION

The Respondent shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless the City, and any and all of its employees, officials and agents from and against any liability (including liability for claims, suits, actions, arbitration proceedings, administrative proceedings, regulatory proceedings, losses, expenses or costs of any kind, whether actual, alleged or threatened, including attorney’s fees and costs, court costs, interest, defense costs and expert witness fees), where the same arise out of, are a consequence of, or are in any way attributable to, in whole or in part, the performance of the contract by Respondent or by any individual or entity for which Respondent is legally liable, including but not limited to officers, agents, employees or subcontractor of Respondent.

REQUIREMENTS / EVALUATION CRITERIA

This project is funded through the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA). As a result, all Respondents must comply with applicable State and Federal requirements associated with GEFA‑funded projects.

Respondents must review and adhere to all GEFA‑related special conditions and supplemental requirements included with this RFP. These include:

• Supplemental General Conditions (Attachment A)

• American Iron and Steel Special Conditions and Information (Attachment B)

Respondents must ensure that all proposed materials, equipment, and project delivery methods conform to these GEFA requirements. Any exceptions or deviations must be clearly identified in the proposal.

Compliance with all GEFA Supplemental Conditions and AIS requirements will be considered during evaluation.

Respondents must structure their proposals to support the City’s contracting approach, which will include:

• A one‑time contract for the SCADA system equipment upgrade

• A separate contract for recurring annual maintenance and service

I. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

The Respondent must submit all documentation as required by specifications, which shall include, but is not limited to: Bid Bonds, Addendum Acknowledgements, Label, one (1) original hard copy of the solicitation, and one (1) electronic copy on a flash drive.

The Statement of Qualifications shall be typed in a minimum 12‑point font on standard 8.5” x 11” paper and shall be limited to no more than thirty (30) pages. The page limit does not include the cover sheet, section dividers, or appendices.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 13

A. Transmittal Letter – Limit: 2 pages

• Provide a Letter of Transmittal describing your firm’s interest in providing SCADA Services and explaining how the City’s Utility Department will benefit from selecting your firm as its SCADA Integrator. This letter shall be limited to two (2) pages and must acknowledge receipt of all issued Addenda.

B. Table of Contents – Limit: 1 page

C. Company Profile and Qualifications – Limit: 10 pages

This section shall demonstrate your firm’s qualifications, relevant experience, and overall capability to provide SCADA Services. The content should be clear and concise; brevity is encouraged. Resumes of key team members may be included in an Appendix and will not count toward the page limit.

At a minimum, the following information shall be provided:

• Background and History of the Firm – including years in business

• Corporate Structure – type of entity (corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.) and organizational chart

• Ownership and Staffing – list of all owners and officers; number of licensed

Professional Engineers and/or degreed engineers on staff (if none, state so)

• Office Locations – including field service offices and/or available technicians

• Services Offered – summary of SCADA related services provided

• Licenses and Certifications – confirmation of all relevant licenses and certifications held by the firm, including but not limited to:

• Engineering Certificates of Authorization (COA) by State

• Electrical Contractor Licenses by State

• Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) Certification

• Project Team Members – list of proposed team members (resumes to be included in

Appendix)

• Description of service response times, emergency support availability, and maintenance support structure, including confirmation of the ability to meet the four

(4) hour emergency response requirement described in this RFP.

D. References and Project Experience – Limit: 10 pages

Provide at least seven (7) SCADA projects completed within the past fifteen (15) years for Drinking Water Treatment Plants, Ground Water Systems, and distribution systems in the Southern United States, preferably Georgia.

For each project, include:

• Name and location of project

• Client contact information (name, address, phone, email)

• Description of the project and SCADA system installed, including HMI platform and communication methods

• Installation date, contract duration, and actual completion time to demonstrate timeliness

• Discussion of dependability, reliability, warranty services, and cooperation with Owner’s staff

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 14

• Explanation of ongoing service and support provided since installation, including whether a formal service/maintenance agreement exists

• Additional technical details, such as:

o Number of tags o SCADA system platform o Example HMI screen images from similar SCADA systems demonstrating system visualization capability.

E. General Approach to Projects – Limit: 5 pages

Provide a description of your firm’s general technical approach to SCADA projects. At a minimum, address the following:

• How do you scope a project

• How do you determine the cost of a project

• How do you manage the project from design through installation and implementation

F. Rates – Limit: 2 pages

Include a list of hourly rates, organized by employee type, and include any reimbursable expenses and typical day rates for site visits.

Provide an itemized pricing sheet that includes a detailed breakdown of all proposed costs.

Hourly rates must be organized by employee type, and all reimbursable expenses should be clearly listed. Please also include typical day‑rates for site visits.

In addition, all proposed costs must be separated into the following categories:

• SCADA System Upgrade (Construction) Costs Provide all one‑time costs associated with the equipment upgrade, including materials, installation, integration, and commissioning. These costs must be itemized so the City can evaluate each component individually.

• Annual Maintenance and Service Costs Provide the expected recurring yearly costs following completion of the upgrade, including maintenance, support, licensing, and any ongoing services. These costs must also be itemized.

Please note that the City may need to remove or adjust specific line items after reviewing the itemized pricing sheet to ensure alignment with available budget. Clear cost separation will help facilitate this evaluation.

The City will withhold five percent (5%) retainage from each progress payment in accordance with the Contract. Respondents shall account for this retainage in their pricing.

G. Anticipated Timeline – Limit: 1 page

Provide an anticipated timeline for completing the SCADA project. The City anticipates a total project duration of approximately one (1) year. Respondents may propose alternative durations if justified by their methodology or approach.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 15

H. Interview Process

Shortlisted Respondents will be invited to participate in an interview with the City’s selection committee. The interview will be used solely to clarify information contained in the written proposal and to evaluate the firm based on the criteria identified in this RFP. No new information may be introduced that would materially alter the contents of the submitted proposal.

II. EVALUATION CRITERIA

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria (100 points total):

1. Integrator Experience and Qualifications (30 Points)

• The City will evaluate the SCADA Integrator’s overall experience, qualifications, and demonstrated capability to provide SCADA services. Consideration will include the firm’s background, years in business, staffing and technical expertise, licenses and certifications, office locations, availability of field service personnel, and the qualifications of proposed project team members. Consideration will also include the Integrator’s experience implementing secure SCADA architectures and coordinating with municipal IT departments.

2. Project Performance and Reliability (30 Points)

• The City will evaluate the Integrator’s performance on previous SCADA projects, with particular emphasis on relevance to water treatment and distribution systems. Evaluation factors include timeliness of project completion, dependability and reliability of delivered systems, quality and responsiveness of warranty services, and demonstrated ability to cooperate with treatment plant staff without negatively impacting daily operations.

3. Service, Maintenance, and Support (30 Points)

• The City will evaluate the Integrator’s ability to provide effective ongoing service and maintenance support. Consideration will include the availability and quality of support services, response capabilities, existence of service or maintenance agreements, and the proximity of service technicians and offices to the project location. Consideration may include the proximity of the Integrator’s service technicians and their ability to respond quickly to emergency service requests.

4. Cost Competitiveness (10 Points)

• The City will evaluate the completeness, clarity, and reasonableness of all proposed costs, including hourly rates (by employee type), day rates, reimbursable expenses, one‑time SCADA System Upgrade (Construction) costs, and Annual Maintenance and Service costs. Proposals that provide a fully itemized pricing sheet, allowing the City to assess individual cost components and adjust scope based on budget, will be scored more favorably. Overall value to the City will be a key consideration.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 16

Evaluation Criteria

# Evaluation Category Maximum Points

Experience and Qualifications Firm background, relevant SCADA experience, staffing, licenses and certifications, experience coordinating with municipal IT departments, office locations, and proposed project team.

Past Project Performance and Reliability Timeliness of completion, dependability, reliability, warranty service, and cooperation with treatment plant staff without negatively impacting operations

Service, Maintenance, and Local Support Quality and availability of service and maintenance support, emergency response capabilities, service agreements, and proximity of technicians and offices.

Cost Competitiveness Reasonableness, competitiveness, and level of itemization provided for hourly rates (by employee type), day rates, reimbursable expenses, one‑time SCADA System Upgrade (Construction) costs, and Annual Maintenance and Service costs, enabling the City to evaluate individual cost components.

Total Points 100

AWARD AND EXECUTION

The City will select the response that, in its sole discretion, is the most responsive and responsible submission to the City. The City will evaluate all submissions based on the published evaluation criteria and will create a shortlist of Respondents for interviews. Respondents should therefore submit their response on the most favorable terms available, as the City will not issue a follow-up or additional solicitation.

Following the evaluation of submissions, the City will create a shortlist of Respondents for further consideration. Only shortlisted Respondents will be invited to participate in interviews. Participation in an interview, if requested, is mandatory for continued award consideration.

Once the final Respondent is selected, the City may initiate contract negotiations, which may include, but are not limited to, discussions of pricing, scope of work, and other contract terms. The City reserves the right to negotiate scope, schedule, pricing, and contractual terms with the selected Respondent. The City anticipates executing two separate contracts: A one-time contract for the SCADA system equipment upgrade, and a separate contract for recurring annual maintenance and service.

Should the City require additional time to finalize the award, the award period may be extended by mutual agreement between the City and the selected Respondent. If a contract award has not been made within ninety days of the submission due date, or within an agreed-upon extension, the Respondent may withdraw its submission without further obligation by either party.

The selected Respondent will be required to execute the City’s standard Professional Services Agreement, included at the end of this document.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 17

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Section 36-60-13, this Contract shall not be deemed to create a debt of the City for the payment of any sum beyond the fiscal year of execution or, in the event of a renewal, beyond the fiscal year of such renewal.

GENERAL CONDITIONS

I. WAIVER OF TECHNICALITIES

All items must meet or exceed specifications as stated by the City of Flowery Branch. The City of Flowery Branch reserves the right to waive any technicalities and to reject or accept any solicitation in its entirety or to accept any portion thereof if it is determined that either method results in lower costs, better service, final satisfaction or is otherwise determined to be in the best interest of the City of Flowery Branch. The award may be made by item number or in total. Determination of best response to solicitation will be the sole judgment of the City of Flowery Branch. Solicitation shall remain valid for ninety days from the date of solicitation opening.

II. BONDING REQUIREMENTS

Bid, performance and payment bonds shall be required for all contracts where the cost is fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) or greater

a. Bid Bonds

i. The bid bond must be in an amount of not less than 5 percent of the total amount payable by the terms of the contract. In lieu of a bid bond, the city may accept a cashier’s check, certified check, or cash deposit in an amount of not less than 5 percent of the total amount payable by the terms of the contract. If the contract does not exceed $750,000.00, the city may also accept an irrevocable letter of credit in lieu of the bid bond. No bid or bid shall be considered to be complete unless a bid bond has been submitted. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-50(d). If a bid bond is required and the Vendor fails to provide it, the contract shall be invalid. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-50(d). The city must approve the form and solvency of the surety prior to acceptance of the bid or bid. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-40(a)(2).

b. Performance Bonds

i. The performance bond shall be in the amount of at least the total amount payable by the terms of the contract and shall be increased as the contract amount is increased.

O.C.G.A. § 36-91-70. If the public works construction contract is less than $750,000.00, the local government may accept an irrevocable letter of credit instead of a performance bond. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-71. No public works construction contract requiring a performance bond shall be valid for any purpose unless the Vendor shall give such performance bond. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-70. The affected city may recover any damages resulting from the Vendor’s breach by filing an action within one year of the completion of the project and acceptance of the work. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-72.

The city must approve the form and solvency of the surety prior to the execution of the contract. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-40(a)(2).

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 18

c. Payment Bonds

i. The payment bond shall be in the amount of at least the total amount payable by the terms of the initial contract for the use and protection of all subVendors, and all persons supplying labor, materials, machinery, and equipment in the conduct of work provided in the contract. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-90. In lieu of a payment bond, the city may accept, in its discretion, a cashier’s check, certified check, or cash in the amount of at least the total amount payable by the terms of the contract. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-90. No public works construction contract requiring a payment bond shall be valid for any purpose. O.C.G.A. § 36-91-91. The city must approve the form and solvency of the surety prior to the execution of the contract. O.C.G.A. § 36-91- 40(a)(2).

III. NON-COLLUSION

Respondent(s), by submitting a solicitation, certify that the accompanying solicitation is not the result of, or affected, by any unlawful act of collusion with any other person or company engaged in the same line of business or commerce, or any other fraudulent act punishable under Georgia or United States law.

IV. SOLICITATION REJECTION

The City of Flowery Branch reserves the right to reject any or all solicitations at any time without penalty. Any Respondent, who acts as a supplier to another Respondent submitting a solicitation and also submits a solicitation of their own, will be viewed as participating in Collusive behavior.

This behavior displays a pattern or practice of unethical or immoral business practices. Any Respondent associated with this practice may be banned from doing business with the City of Flowery Branch for up to three years.

V. MODIFICATION OF SOLICITATIONS

Any clerical mistake that is patently obvious on the face of the solicitation may, subject to the limitations described below, be corrected upon written request and verification submitted by the Respondent. A non-material omission in a solicitation may be corrected if the Finance Department determines that correction to be in the City’s best interest. Omissions affecting or relating to any of the following shall be deemed material and shall not be corrected after solicitation opening:

(1) Price Information; and

(2) Any Required Insurance

VI. WITHDRAWAL OF SOLICITATIONS

Solicitations may be withdrawn at any time prior to the opening. After solicitations have been opened, withdrawal of a solicitation shall be based upon the following:

The Respondent shall give notice in writing of his claim of right to withdraw his solicitation due to an error within two business days after the conclusion of the opening procedure. Solicitations may be withdrawn from consideration if the price is substantially lower than the other solicitations due solely to a mistake therein, provided the solicitation was submitted in good faith, and the mistake was a clerical mistake as opposed to a judgment mistake, and was actually due to an unintentional arithmetic error or an unintentional omission of a quantity of work, labor or material made directly in the compilation of the solicitation, which unintentional arithmetical error or unintentional omission can be clearly shown by objective evidence drawn from inspection of original work papers, 26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 19 documents and materials used in the preparation of the solicitation sought to be withdrawn. The Respondent’s original work papers shall be the sole acceptable evidence of error and mistake if he elects to withdraw his solicitation. If a solicitation is withdrawn under the authority of this provision, the lowest remaining responsive solicitation shall be deemed to be the low solicitation.

VII. NON-ENDORSEMENT

As a result of the selection of a Respondent to supply products and/or services to the City of Flowery Branch, the City of Flowery Branch is neither endorsing nor suggesting that the Respondent’s product is the best or only solution. The Respondent agrees to make no reference to the City of Flowery Branch in any literature, promotional material, brochures, sales presentation, or the like without the express written consent of the City of Flowery Branch.

VIII. PROPRIETARY MATERIAL

Any information contained in the solicitation that is proprietary will be neither accepted nor honored.

All information contained in this solicitation is subject to public disclosure.

IX. RESPONSE PROPERTY OF THE CITY OF FLOWERY BRANCH

All material submitted in response to this request becomes the property of the City of Flowery Branch. Selection or rejection of a response does not affect this right.

X. NO OBLIGATION TO BUY

The City of Flowery Branch reserves the right to refrain from contracting with or purchasing from any Respondent. The release of this solicitation does not compel the City of Flowery Branch to purchase.

XI. COST OF PREPARING SOLICITATION

The City of Flowery Branch is not liable for any cost incurred by Respondent(s) in the preparation and presentation of solicitations and demonstrations submitted in response to this solicitation.

XII. NUMBER OF COPIES REQUIRED

Respondent shall submit one (1) original hard-copy submission and one (1) electronic copy provided on a flash drive.

XIII. ADDENDA

Respondent(s) are responsible for checking the City of Flowery Branch’s website for the issuance of any addenda prior to submitting a solicitation. The address is https://www.flowerybranchga.org/BIDs https://www.flowerybranchga.org/BIDs

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 20

**The City of Flowery Branch is an equal opportunity owner/employer and will not discriminate against any vendor because of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, or ADA disability status.

*** The City of Flowery Branch will comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42

USC 2000d—42 USC 2000d—4 (hereinafter referred to as the Act), and all requirements imposed by or pursuant to Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the

Secretary Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation—

Effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (hereinafter referred to as the Regulations), and other pertinent directives, to the end that in accordance with the Act, Regulations, and other pertinent directives, no person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity for which the Recipient receives federal financial assistance from the Department of Transportation, including the Federal Highway Administration, and HEREBY GIVES ASSURANCE THAT it will promptly take any measures necessary to effectuate this agreement.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 21

CERTIFICATION

RFP No. 26-010 SCADA SYSTEM EQUIPMENT UPGRADE FOR WATER SYSTEM

This form must be completed and signed for the solicitation to be considered.

With my signature, I certify that I am duly authorized to commit my firm to this solicitation. I further certify that the information contained in this submission is true, accurate, and complete and shall remain valid for a period of ninety

(90) days from the date of submission.

Postal Return and/or Courier Delivery Address:

Finance Department

5410 Pine Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542

The undersigned further certifies that:

- This submission is made without any prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a response for the same solicitation, and without collusion or fraud.

- The firm has reviewed and understands the Request for Proposal and agrees to comply with all requirements, terms, and conditions stated therein.

- The firm acknowledges receipt of and agrees to comply with all GEFA-related requirements, including the Supplemental General Conditions (Attachment A) and American Iron and Steel (AIS) Requirements (Attachment B).

- The firm is not disqualified from responding to this solicitation under any applicable laws, regulations, or policies.

I acknowledge that my firm has reviewed and understands the scope of work and certifies that it can perform the services as presented in this solicitation upon the City’s request.

Signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of:

________________________________ By: ________________________________________ Unofficial Witness (Person authorized to sign binding contract)

Title: ______________________________________

Notary Public Attest: ______________________________________ Commission Expires: ______________ (Officer of Company if Corporation)

Title: _______________________________________

Company Name: ___________________________________________________________

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 22

ADDENDUM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

RFP 26-010

PLEASE LIST ISSUED ADDENDUM(S)

Addendum Number(s)

☐ NO ADDENDA WERE RECEIVED

COMPANY NAME: _________________________________________________________________

CONTACT PERSON: ________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________

CITY:________________________________ STATE:_________________ ZIP:_________________

PHONE: FAX: ______________________________________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________

By signing below, I hereby acknowledge receipt of the supplement pertaining to the above referenced solicitation.

SIGNATURE: ____________________________________________DATE: ____________________

UPON RECEIPT, PLEASE PRINT AND ADD TO YOUR SOLICITATION.

26-010 SCADA System Equipment Upgrade for Water System Page 23

CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT UNDER O.C.G.A. §13-10-91

By executing this affidavit, the undersigned Contractor verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A.

§13-10-91, stating affirmatively that the individual, firm or corporation which is engaged in the physical performance of services on behalf of CITY OF FLOWERY BRANCH has registered with, is authorized to use and…