2627-07_PRP_Search_Services_publish.pdf

Department of Toxic Substances Control 1001 I Street • Sacramento, California 95812

Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) Searches Request for Proposal (RFP) Primary No. 2627-07

July 9, 2026

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms who have the ability to provide all necessary personnel services, materials, supplies, facilities and equipment to conduct chain of title searches and potentially responsible party (PRP) searches and prepare associated deliverables. Instructions for submitting any questions about the content or the competitive process and DTSC’s response process are outlined in Section 14.B.

The purpose of this solicitation is to award one (1) contract for the specified services in an amount not to exceed $950,000.00. This RFP explains what is required to submit a successful proposal package. In submitting your proposal, you must comply with these instructions and meet all requirements. Prior to submitting a proposal, Proposers shall review the Sample Contract included in this RFP to ensure they agree to all terms and conditions and have the ability and resources to complete the required work within the timeframes set out in the contract.

DTSC is not obligated to award and reserves the right to reject all proposals.

Proposers shall submit completed proposals as outlined in this RFP no later than the date stated in the Schedule of Events table on the next page.

The State’s General Terms and Conditions and Contractor Certification Clauses will be included, by reference, in any resulting contract entered into with the State of California, and they may be viewed and downloaded at Internet site:

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources- List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language. If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be provided by contacting the person listed below.

Katheryn Nicol DTSC Contracts Unit contracts@dtsc.ca.gov https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language mailto:contracts@dtsc.ca.gov

Request for Proposal No. 2627-07

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

RFP No. 2627-07

Events Anticipated Date of Event

RFP Release Date July 9, 2026

Deadline to Submit Written Questions July 20, 2026 at 3:00 p.m., Pacific Time

Post Response to Written Questions* August 4, 2026

Final Filing Date and Time for Proposal Submission August 13, 2026 at 3:00 p.m., Pacific Time

Public Cost Proposal Opening* October 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time

Post Notice of Intent to Award 5 Days before Award

Anticipated Contract Performance Start Date* December 1, 2026

* This date may be changed at the discretion of DTSC without addendum to this RFP.

NOTE: Public Cost Proposal Opening Location: Department of Toxic Substances Control – 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. An option to attend remotely will also be available. For security reasons, if you plan to attend the public Cost Proposal opening in person or remotely, you must contact contracts@dtsc.ca.gov by 11:00 a.m. on September 30, 2026, so a Teams meeting invite can be made, or arrangements can be made for entrance into the Cal/EPA building.

PRP Searches

2. TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

2. TABLE OF CONTENTS

3. INTRODUCTION

4. PURPOSE

5. CONTACT INFORMATION

6. SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

7. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

A. Corporate Experience Narrative

B. Sample Title Search and Report

C. Sample PRP Search Report

D. Organizational chart, Resumes, And Personnel Experience Forms

E. Contract Work Plan Narrative

8. COST DETAIL FORMAT AND REQUIREMENTS

9. PREFERENCE PROGRAMS

A. Small Business Preference

B. Target Area Contract Preference Act

C. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program Participation and Incentive

D. Commercially Useful Function

10. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

A. Technical Proposal

B. Attachments

11. SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS

12. EVALUATION AND SCORING PROCESS

A. Basic eligibility

B. Responsiveness to the published requirements

C. Scoring of the Technical Proposal

D. Evaluation and Scoring Rubrics

E. Opening the Cost Proposals

13. AWARD AND PROTEST

14. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. Errors and Omissions

B. Questions Regarding the RFP

C. Executive Order Regarding Russia Sanctions

D. Addenda

E. Clarifications

15. OTHER CRITERIA

A. Right to Reject Any or All Proposals

B. Proposer Costs

C. Review of Proposals Subsequent to Contract Award

D. Conflict of Interest

E. Corporate Qualifications to Do Business in California

F. Delinquent Tax Obligations (Public Contract Code 10295.4)

G. Follow-On Contracts

H. Execution of Contract

I. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Technology Use and Reporting

16. ATTACHMENTS

A. Attachment 1: Attachments Checklist

B. Attachment 2: Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet

C. Attachment 3: Proposer Certifying Statements

D. Attachment 4: Proposer Cost Sheet

E. Attachment 5: California Civil Rights Laws

F. Attachment 6: Bidder Declaration

G. Attachment 7: Darfur Contracting Act

H. Attachment 8: California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Contract Participation and Bid Incentive Instructions (Revision Date 1- 2022) 43

I. Attachment 9: STD 843 DVBE Declarations

J. Attachment 10: Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form

K. Attachment 11: Small Business Preference

L. Attachment 12: Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA)

M. Attachment 13: Personnel Experience Form for Project Manager

N. Attachment 14: Personnel Experience Form for Senior PRP Search Lead

17. SAMPLE CONTRACT

Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) Searches

3. INTRODUCTION

DTSC is responsible for protecting the public health and the environment from the harmful effects of toxic substances. In carrying out this responsibility, DTSC regulates the activities of hazardous/materials generators including the treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF), and transporters. DTSC also evaluates hazardous substance/materials facility sites, administers resource recovery and health and safety programs, conducts hazardous substance release assessments, reviews and approves financial assurance mechanisms of business entities, oversees the development and implementation of closure and post-closure operation and maintenance plans, carries out State and Federal “superfund” and other site cleanup activities, coordinates emergency response actions, conducts hazardous substances property evaluations and assessments of abandoned sites, and carries out enforcement activities.

Authority to contract is found in the Public Contract Code, and Part 2 of Division 45 of the California Health and Safety Code authorizes DTSC to clean up hazardous substance release sites which pose a threat or potential threat to the public health and/or the environment. Among other things, DTSC is authorized to contract for professional technical data gathering and analysis, perform remedial and removal actions, and perform other related work at hazardous substance sites. Further, Chapter 6.5 of Division 20 of the California Health and Safety Code authorizes DTSC to order and/or perform corrective action when DTSC determines that there is or may be a release of hazardous waste constituents into the environment from a current or formerly permitted hazardous waste facility.

4. PURPOSE

The purpose of this document is to solicit proposals from Proposers who have the ability to provide personnel, services, and materials necessary to conduct chain of title searches and PRP searches and prepare associated reports. In addition, the Proposer shall provide Title Search and PRP Search Staff Training and Consultation to DTSC staff.

DTSC intends to award one (1) contract resulting from this process. The term will be two (2) years with the option to renew for one (1) additional year at DTSC’s sole discretion. DTSC anticipates requesting on average approximately 20 PRP search reports and 20 title search reports per year, but no guarantees can be made about the frequency or amount of work.

The activities listed above are needed for identifying liability and viability of PRPs in connection with discharges of uncontrolled hazardous substances at sites located throughout the State of California. Travel to local government offices to search for and retrieve public documents and records may be required.

5. CONTACT INFORMATION

All communications for this RFP must be directed to the following staff:

Katheryn Nicol Contract Development Analyst Department of Toxic Substances Control 1001 I Street, 12th Floor Sacramento, CA 95814 E-mail: contracts@dtsc.ca.gov

Any contact with DTSC regarding this RFP must be directed to the designated DTSC staff identified above. Prospective Proposers, including any prospective subcontractors, shall NOT contact any other DTSC employees or Board of Environmental Safety members regarding the RFP and/or the proposed work associated with this RFP. Any discussion or inquiry regarding this RFP in violation of this rule may result in the disqualification of such Proposer’s proposal or contract award. This requirement is to ensure a fair and equitable process in awarding a contract based upon merit. Any oral or written communications regarding this RFP from any other DTSC employee or board members may not be relied upon and are not binding on

DTSC.

6. SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

The services to be provided are PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting as identified in detail under Section 17, Sample Contract of this RFP (Sample Contract). Early, comprehensive identification of all PRPs supports effective notification, encourages cooperative response actions, enables equitable allocation of cleanup costs, and facilitates timely settlement with smaller contributors.

7. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Each Technical Proposal must contain all required items listed below in Sections A-E. The items must be presented in the same order and must be clearly labeled by section and subsection. Any information that exceeds the stated parameters may be disregarded.

For purposes of responding to the Technical Proposal Submission Requirements, please refer to the following definitions:

Title Search and Report: The historical review of county land records to determine legal ownership, easements, liens and chain of title for a specific parcel of real property.

PRP Search: A comprehensive environmental liability investigation to identify corporate entities, operators, generators, and historical owners who may be legally liable for hazardous substance releases. This process often incorporates, but is not limited to, real property title searches.

PRP Search Report: The formal, synthesized narrative report summarizing operational histories, corporate successions, waste disposal practices, and legal nexus documentation determining liability rankings.

Collectively, the Title Search and Report, PRP Search and PRP Search Report are referred to as PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting.

Technical Proposal responses should be broadly reflective of the operational requirements and technical challenges outlined in the Sample Contract. Any section of the Technical

Proposal exceeding the specified page limits will be blanked out or removed by the procurement coordinator and will not be reviewed, evaluated or scored by the evaluation committee.

A. CORPORATE EXPERIENCE NARRATIVE

Provide a narrative not to exceed 15 double‑spaced pages in 12‑point font describing the firm’s experience conducting PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting. Project examples cited may be used to demonstrate experience for multiple items. The narrative shall:

i. State the number of years the firm has provided PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting. Specific projects are not required to be identified.

ii. Provide the number of PRP Search Reports completed in the last five (5) years.

Specific projects are not required to be identified.

iii. Briefly describe at least three (3) complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed with contract values of $250,000 or greater. Specific projects must be identified and required reference information for each project must be provided in section 7.A.xii.

iv. Briefly describe at least three (3) complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed which included the identification of at least fifteen (15) distinct business entities or trusts. Specific projects must be identified and required reference information for each project must be provided in section 7.A.xii.

v. Briefly describe at least three (3) complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed that included tracing liability through mergers, acquisitions and dissolutions. Specific projects must be identified and required reference information for each project must be provided in section 7.A.xii.

vi. Summarize typical annual workload. Demonstrate that you have managed at least five (5) Title Search and Reports and five (5) complex PRP Search Reports simultaneously while maintaining quality and schedule.

vii. Identify research resources, commercial databases, and/or software primarily used to perform PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting and explain their relevance in performing this work.

viii. Highlight (1) significant challenges encountered while conducting PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting; (2) the strategies employed to resolve them; and (3) the measurable outcomes.

ix. Provide a brief description of any internal/external training conducted related to PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting.

x. State how many PRP Search Reports the firm has provided for government entities within the past five (5) years. Specific projects are not required to be identified.

xi. Sometimes, there are deeds recorded many decades ago with no street address or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), or with addresses and APNs that have changed since the deed was recorded. The deed may contain a legal description for property that has since been subdivided.

a) Provide your experience identifying a parcel on a map based only on the legal description in a deed (rather than a street address or APN), when the legal description is in the form of metes and bounds.

b) Provide your experience identifying a parcel on a map based only on the legal description in a deed (rather than a street address or APN), when the legal description is in the form of a government survey.

c) Provide your experience identifying a parcel on a map based only on the legal description in a deed (rather than a street address or APN), when the legal description is in the form of a lot and block legal description.

xii. For every project cited in the Corporate Experience Narrative, Proposer must include a separate list at the end that includes the project name, the client name, a contact person, telephone number, and e‑mail address. If the primary contact person for a historical project is no longer available or employed by the reference entity, the Proposer must provide the contact information for the entity’s current Contract Manager, Public Records Officer, Human Resources Department or general corporate headquarters to satisfy the requirement. Failure to provide a verifiable list may result in disqualification and providing fraudulent information will result in a proposal being deemed non-responsive and disqualified from further evaluation.

This list will not count towards the maximum number of pages. DTSC may contact the client, but only to verify the information provided.

B. SAMPLE TITLE SEARCH AND REPORT

i. Submit one (1) complete Title Search and Report conducted and finalized within the last three (3) years. The report must:

a) Be provided as a searchable PDF.

b) Cover at least the past 50 years of the site history.

c) Include a one (1) page cover sheet stating:

(i) The original project purpose and intended audience; and

(ii) Identify the client for which the report was prepared and provide the client contact name, telephone number, and e‑mail address. DTSC may contact the client, but only to verify the report.

d) Be redacted as necessary to protect confidential information while preserving evaluable content.

e) Past and present owners are clearly identified for the subject site and surrounding properties (e.g., abutting parcels).

(i) Identification must include:

(1) Owner names

(2) Corporate names (as applicable)

(3) Dates or periods of ownership

(4) Source citations, such as deeds, assessor records, or other validated documentation.

C. SAMPLE PRP SEARCH REPORT

i. Submit one (1) complete PRP Search Report conducted and finalized within the last three (3) years. The report must:

a) Be provided as a searchable PDF.

b) Cover at least the past 50 years of the site history including operational history and past and current regulatory status.

c) Include a one (1) page cover sheet stating:

(i) The original project purpose and intended audience; and

(ii) Identify the client for which the report was prepared and provide the client contact name, telephone number, and e‑mail address. DTSC may contact the client, but only to verify the report.

d) Be redacted as necessary to protect confidential information while preserving evaluable content.

e) Include a property with multiple parcels and a history of use by several industrial operations.

f) Include discussions about:

(i) Site characterization, including nature and extent of hazardous substances identified

(ii) Cleanup actions

(iii) History of releases of each COC(Contaminants of Concern) if known (specifying known dates), specifying the medium as well as location on the site

(iv) Any potential off-site sources of COC

(v) Identify what media has been sampled

(vi) Identify any known or suspected sensitive receptors onsite and off-site

(vii) Actions by public entities and private parties to characterize and clean up the site

(viii) Identify owner, operator names, dates/periods of ownership, and source citations (deeds, assessor records.)

(ix) Specific dates of costs incurred by public entities to characterize and clean up the site

g) Include a summary of information from the search of at least the following sources: historical phone books, Polk Directories, County Recorder Office, Haines Criss-Cross directories, and the California Manufacturers’ Register and corresponding copies of the relevant documentation.

h) The Title Search and Report where specified must include copies of the recorded instrument for each transfer (e.g. deed).

D. ORGANIZATIONAL CHART, RESUMES, AND PERSONNEL EXPERIENCE FORMS

i. Provide an organizational chart showing all Key Personnel—including prime‑contractor and subcontractor staff—who would be assigned to this contract and include their proposed role. Key Personnel are individuals whose expertise is critical to successful contract performance. The organizational chart at a minimum must include a Project Manager and Senior PRP Research Lead. All subcontracted roles must explicitly display the legal name of the subcontractor entity within the position block.

ii. For each Key Personnel, except the Project Manager and Senior PRP Research Lead, attach a résumé no longer than two (2) pages detailing relevant experience performing PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting, professional licenses/certifications, and pertinent educational degrees (e.g., J.D.; B.S./M.S. in environmental science, geology, geography, or related field). Do not include any personal information, such as employee home addresses, phone numbers, emails, on the resumes or any other documentation.

iii. For the Project Manager and Senior PRP Research Lead, do not include a resume.

Instead, fill out Attachments 13 and 14 “Personnel Experience Form”, one for each respective role. The forms are included as Attachments 13 and 14 to this RFP in Section 16, “Attachments.” The experience documented in the forms must specifically address the criteria detailed in each attachment. The forms will be used to verify and score the experience for the Project Manager and Senior PRP Research Lead against the corresponding evaluation criteria in the Evaluation and Scoring Rubric in Section 12.D.

E. CONTRACT WORK PLAN NARRATIVE

Provide a narrative no longer than 10 double‑spaced pages in 12‑point font explaining how the bidder will apply its staff, tools, and other resources to fulfill the contract requirements in the Sample Contract. The narrative shall:

i. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the contract scope, objectives, and deliverables.

ii. Describe the proposed workflow for receiving assignments, conducting research, performing quality control, addressing DTSC’s comments, and delivering products.

iii. Provide a staffing and resource plan that outlines how the bidder’s dedicated resources will have sufficient dedicated hours and technical expertise to deliver at least five (5) Title Search Reports and five (5) PRP Search Reports every three (3) months.

iv. Identify key tools, databases, and methodologies and explain their suitability.

v. Describe performance‑monitoring metrics that will be tracked and reported to DTSC.

vi. Present a communication plan outlining the frequency, format, and responsible parties for status updates and issue escalation.

vii. Summarize data‑management and security protocols.

viii. Provide a proactive risk management and mitigation plan detailing how they will identify, monitor and mitigate operational, technical and programmatic risks that could disrupt contract performance or delay deliverables. It should address, at a minimum, volume and workload surges, technical anomalies, and business continuity and technology downtime.

ix. Describe your proposed approach and methodology for delivering the staff training and consultation services outlined in the Sample Contract, including the recommended training delivery methods, the specific instructional tools to be utilized, and the strategy for providing ongoing, post-training support to DTSC staff.

x. Provide a contingency plan for staff turnover explaining succession, cross training, knowledge transfer, and continuity strategies to maintain continuity of service.

8. COST DETAIL FORMAT AND REQUIREMENTS

A. The Proposer Cost Sheet must be submitted in a sealed envelope separate from the rest of the Proposal package. The sealed envelope shall contain one (1) complete hard copy of the Proposer Cost Sheet (Attachment 4). Clearly label the envelope as “PROPOSER COST SHEET FOR RFP NO. 2627-07, submitted by [Proposer Name].”

B. Proposer must submit a Proposer Cost Sheet in the format prescribed in Attachment 4.

C. This is a fixed unit price proposal and shall consist of a single unit price rate for each specific item on the Cost Sheet. Submitted rates are “fully loaded rates” as described under Exhibit B of Section 17, Proposed Contract of this RFP.

D. The rates shall not be increased for the term of the contract or any extension/amendment of the contract.

E. The Proposal Total on the Proposer Cost Sheet will be used to determine the lowest proposal. The contract, if awarded, will incorporate the rates in the Proposal Cost Sheet.

9. PREFERENCE PROGRAMS

The State established the following preference programs to encourage participation in state contracting by various segments of the business community and to stimulate business and employment in geographic areas determined to be economically distressed. DTSC will apply preference adjustments to eligible Proposers according to State regulations following verification of eligibility with the appropriate office of Department of General Services.

A. SMALL BUSINESS PREFERENCE

A five percent (5%) proposal preference is available to a certified small business firm.

The Small Business preference will be applied to those Proposers declaring their eligibility on the Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet, Attachment 2.

The five percent (5%) proposal preference is also available to a non-small business claiming California-certified small business/microbusiness subcontractor participation for at least twenty-five percent (25%) of its proposal price. The non-small business preference will be applied to those Proposers declaring their eligibility on the Bidder Declaration, Attachment 6.

To claim the small business preference, Proposers must meet the requirements, and complete and submit Attachment 11, Small Business Preference with their proposal.

Note: The 5% proposal preference is used for computation purposes only and does not alter or affect the amounts of the resulting contract. In no event shall the preference amount of the small business or non-small business subcontractor preferences awarded on a single proposal exceed $50,000.

Information regarding the certification program and the benefits of being certified as a Small Business by the Department of General Services may be obtained at:

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List- Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise.

B. TARGET AREA CONTRACT PREFERENCE ACT

Proposers seeking to obtain a Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) preference must complete and submit the Target Area Contract Preference Act Preference Request, STD. 830, with the Proposal (Attachment 12). This form is available and additional information regarding this preference program may be obtained from:

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List- Folder/Request-Target-Area-Contract-Preference?search=tacpa.

C. DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AND INCENTIVE

DVBE Participation: Public Contract Code Section 10115 establishes a contract participation goal of at least three percent (3%) for disabled veteran business enterprise (DVBE). This goal applies to a State agency’s overall contracting program. State agencies have the discretion to apply the DVBE participation goal to individual contracts.

The 3% minimum DVBE participation requirement is waived for this RFP.

DVBE Incentive: However, the State is committed to achieving legislatively established goals for the participation of DVBEs in all state contracts and seeks to use certified DVBE businesses, whenever possible. Therefore, the State requests your voluntary participation in reporting any certified DVBEs including yourself, that will be used in the performance of the resulting contract. An explanation of the DVBE requirements can be found at the Internet web site: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page- Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small- Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise.

This RFP package provides program information and Proposer responsibilities for the California DVBE Contract Participation and Bid Incentive Instructions (Attachment 8), which Proposers should read. The Proposer must indicate all proposed subcontractors on the Bidder Declaration (Attachment 6).

D. COMMERCIALLY USEFUL FUNCTION

In accordance with Military and Veterans Code (MVC) Section 999(b)(5)(B) and 999.10 (a)(3), Government Code (GC) 14837(d)(4)(A), Title II California Code of Regulations, Sections 1896.15 and 1896.71, a California certified Small Business and/or DVBE must be deemed to perform a Commercially Useful Function (CUF).

Proposers seeking to obtain a Small Business or DVBE preference must complete and submit a Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form (Attachment 10) for each SB and DVBE with their proposal. One form must be filled out for the prime and one form for each subcontractor proposed to obtain the preference/incentive.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-Target-Area-Contract-Preference?search=tacpa https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-Target-Area-Contract-Preference?search=tacpa https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Apply-for-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise

10. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

A proposal will not be considered complete unless it contains all of the items described below. Proposers are not to alter or modify the forms other than by providing the required information; please note, adding your firm’s logo or letterhead to the form is not considered a modification or alteration of the form.

A. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL

Proposers must provide all requested information as outlined in Section 7 of this RFP.

B. ATTACHMENTS

Failure to submit any of the below Attachments may cause the Proposal to be rejected.

i. Attachments Checklist. Proposers must complete and return the Attachments Checklist, (Attachment 1).

ii. Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet. Proposers must complete and return the Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet (Attachment 2). This form must be signed by an individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually.

iii. Proposer Certifying Statements. Bidder must complete and return the Bidder Certifying Statements (Attachment 3). This form must be signed by an individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually.

iv. Proposer Cost Sheet. Proposers must complete and return a Proposer Cost Sheet (Attachment 4) per requirements outlined in Section 8. Cost Detail Format and Requirements.

v. California Civil Rights Laws. Proposers must complete and return the California Civil Rights Laws Certification (Attachment 5).

vi. Bidder Declaration. Proposers must complete and return the Bidder Declaration GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 6).

vii. Darfur Contracting Act. Proposers must complete and return the Darfur Contracting Act Certification (Attachment 7).

viii. Preference Program Attachments 8 through 12.

These attachments should be submitted if applicable.

a) California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Contract Participation and Bid Incentive Instructions (Revision Date 1-2022) (Attachment 8)

b) STD 843 DVBE Declarations (Attachment 9)

c) Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form (Attachment 10)

d) Small Business Preference (Attachment 11)

e) Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) (Attachment 12).

ix. Personnel Experience Form – Attachments 13 and 14. These forms will be used to verify and score the experience for the Project Manager and Senior PRP Research Lead against the corresponding evaluation criteria in the Evaluation and Scoring Rubric in Section 12.

11. SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS

All proposals must be submitted under sealed cover to the Department of Toxic Substances Control by dates and times shown in the Schedule of Events Table. Proposals must be in the physical possession of the procurement official by the due date and time. Postmarks, shipping labels, or other receipts dated on or before the due date and time will not be accepted as proof of timely submission. DTSC assumes no responsibility for bids lost or delayed in the mail. Any proposal arriving after the due date and time will be rejected as legally non-responsive and cannot be opened or scored. Proposer Cost Sheet must be submitted in a separate sealed envelope, per the requirements outlined in Section 8.

Proposals not submitted under sealed cover shall be rejected. Proposers are required to submit a minimum of two (2) complete paper sets and one (1) additional electronic copy on USB-flash drive containing the proposal. Please ensure the USB-flash drive copy does not contain the Proposer Cost Sheet and that it mirrors the paper sets. One (1) paper copy must be marked as the original Proposal. The original Proposal will be relied upon as the official proposal, in the event there are any discrepancies between the original Proposal and the other paper or electronic copies. The sealed proposal envelopes must be plainly marked with the RFP number and title, must show Proposer’s name and address, and must be marked with “DO NOT OPEN”.

Proposals sent via U.S. Postal Delivery, UPS, Express Mail or Federal Express should be delivered at the locations in the table below. Hand delivered proposals will only be accepted on the Final Filing Date and must be coordinated and scheduled ahead of time. To arrange for hand delivery, Proposer must contact the individual listed in Section 5 by 3 p.m.

on the business day before the Final Filing Date via E-mail at: contracts@dtsc.ca.gov. Hand delivery will be accepted at 1001 I Street and further instructions will be provided when hand delivery is requested.

Via U.S. Postal Service Delivery UPS, Express Mail, Federal Express

RFP 2627-07 PRP Searches Contract Development Department of Toxic Substances Control Contracting Services Branch – 12th Floor P.O. Box 806 Sacramento, CA 95812-0806

RFP 2627-07 PRP Searches Contract Development Department of Toxic Substances Control Contracting Services Branch – 12th Floor 1001 I Street Sacramento, CA 95814

A. All proposals shall include the documents identified in Proposal Requirements.

Proposals not including the proper “required attachments” may be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive proposal is one that does not meet the proposal requirements.

B. All documents requiring a signature (in blue ink or digitally) must bear an original blue ink or digital signature of a person authorized to bind the proposing firm. Please note: DTSC accepts e-signatures on all forms requiring signatures.

C. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all the services described herein.

Any deviation from the work specifications will not be considered and will cause a proposal to be rejected.

D. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. The State may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. The State’s waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the Proposer from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the contract. If a Proposer fails to sign a required attachment (other than the Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet (Attachment 2) and Bidder Certifying Statements (Attachment 3)), the State may, at its sole discretion, treat this as a clerical error and allow the Bidder to cure the defect by submitting the signed document within two (2) business days of notification. Failure to sign the Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet (Attachment 2) and Bidder Certifying Statements (Attachment 3) shall be deemed a material deviation and is not curable.

E. Costs incurred for developing proposals in anticipation of award of the contract are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to the State of California.

F. An individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually shall sign the Bid/ Bidder Certification Sheet (Attachment 2). The signature shall indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the proposing firm. An unsigned Bid/ Bidder Certification Sheet will be rejected.

G. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission only by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

Proposer modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

H. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to the State, signed by the Proposer or an authorized agent. A Proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

I. The awarding agency may modify the RFP prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum via Cal eProcure.

J. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements or which provide references that do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the Proposer may be rejected.

K. The awarding agency reserves the right to reject all proposals. The agency is not required to award a contract.

L. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, Proposers shall review, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements.

M. The State does not accept alternate contract language from a prospective Contractor. A proposal with such language will be considered a counter proposal and will be rejected.

The State’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC) are not negotiable.

N. No oral understanding or contract shall be binding on either party.

12. EVALUATION AND SCORING PROCESS

A. BASIC ELIGIBILITY.

i. Proposals will be evaluated based on the RFP Primary Method described in California

Public Contract Code §10344 (b). The Proposer should thoroughly review this RFP to ensure that its proposal is fully compliant with the RFP requirements. At the time of proposal opening, each proposal will be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP.

Cost sheets will remain sealed and will not be opened during the initial proposal opening.

B. RESPONSIVENESS TO THE PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

i. DTSC will evaluate each proposal to determine its responsiveness to the published requirements. If DTSC determines a proposal is in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP, it will undergo an evaluation of the Technical Proposal.

C. SCORING OF THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL

i. Proposers that are found to be in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP will have their Technical Proposal collaboratively evaluated by an evaluation team selected by DTSC and scored based on the scoring rubrics included in Section 12.D to determine a consensus score. The maximum score is 800 points.

Proposers who meet all submission requirements and receive at least 600 points for their Technical Proposal will have their cost proposal opened.

D. EVALUATION AND SCORING RUBRICS

Scoring Scale A – General Criteria (for all Requirements below that state: “See Scoring Scale A”)

Evaluation Points Awarded Basis for Assignment

Excellent 100% of points possible

The response thoroughly addresses all material components of the requirement(s), demonstrates a deep and comprehensive understanding of the topic, and provides exceptional detail regarding complex work or a high level of expertise.

Fair 50% of points possible

The response addresses the material requirement(s) without significant flaws, omissions, or defects and demonstrates an adequate understanding of the topic, but lacks advanced detail regarding complex work or a high level of expertise.

Unsatisfactory / Nonresponsive

0% of points possible

The response fails to adequately address the material requirement(s), contains significant flaws, omissions or defects or demonstrates a poor understanding of the topic.

Scoring Scale B – Organization & Clarity Criteria (for all Requirements below that state: “See Scoring Scale B”)

Evaluation Points Awarded Basis for Assignment

Excellent 100% of points possible

The writing is exceptionally clear, precise, and organized in a logical, coherent order making the content easy to follow and comprehend. The text is free (or nearly free) of spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors and any such errors are minimal and do not detract from clarity or professionalism. The response reflects an advanced degree of polish, precisions and rigorous attention to detail, demonstrating the sophisticated writing capability required for formal report delivery.

Satisfactory 50% of points possible

The writing is generally clear and organized, though minor issues may be present. The structure and flow are adequate. May contain some minor grammatical, spelling, grammar or punctuation errors, but they do not hinder comprehension. The response reflects adequate attention to detail but lacks polish.

Unsatisfactory 0% of points possible

The writing exhibits one or more of the following deficiencies:

• The text is poorly written, unclear, or disorganized.

• Frequent spelling, grammatical, and/or punctuation errors are present and may hinder comprehension.

• The response lacks basic attention to detail, appearing rushed, careless or unprofessional.

Corporate Experience Narrative: Evaluation Criteria for Requirements Set Forth in Section 7.A

Scoring Ref. # Description Maximum Points

Possible

7.A.i

15 points

• The firm has at least five (5) years of PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting experience.

8 points

• The firm has three (3) to four (4) years of PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting experience.

0 points

• The firm has less than three (3) years of PRP and Title Search Services and Reporting experience.

7.A.ii

15 points

• The firm has completed at least 100 PRP search reports within the last five (5) years.

8 points

• The firm has completed at least 60-99 PRP search reports in the last five (5) years.

0 points

• The firm has completed less than 60 PRP search reports in the last five (5) years.

7.A.iii

20 points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of three (3) or more complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each with a contract value exceeding $250,000, that fully demonstrates the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

10 points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of exactly two (2) complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each with a contract value exceeding $250,000, that adequately demonstrates the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

0 points

• The narrative fails to provide descriptions for at least two (2) PRP Search Report the firm completed, or the description(s) provided fails to demonstrate the necessary capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

7.A.iv

10 points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of three (3) or more complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each including the successful identification of at least 15 distinct business entities or trusts, that fully demonstrates the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

5 points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of three (3) or more complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each including the successful identification of at least 10 distinct business entities or trusts, that fully demonstrates the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

0 points

• The narrative fails to provide qualifying descriptions for at least three

(3) projects the firm completed, or the three (3) projects do not each include the successful identification of at least 10 distinct business entities, or the descriptions provided fail to detail the necessary identification methodologies to demonstrate capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

7.A.v

20 Points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of three (3) or more complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each including tracing liability through corporate mergers, acquisitions, and dissolution, that fully demonstrate the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

10 Points

• The narrative provides a substantive description of one (1) or two (2) complex PRP Search Report projects the firm completed, each including tracing liability through corporate mergers, acquisitions, and dissolution, that fully demonstrate the bidder's capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

0 Points

• The narrative fails to provide qualifying descriptions for any projects the firm completed, or the descriptions provided fail to detail the necessary corporate history analysis to demonstrate capability to perform the required work in the Sample Contract.

7.A.vi See Scoring Scale A 15

7.A.vii See Scoring Scale A 15

7.A.viii See Scoring Scale A 10

7.A.ix See Scoring Scale A 10

7.A.x

10 points

• The firm has provided at least 25 PRP Search Reports for government entities within the last five (5) years.

5 points

• The firm has provided at least at least 15 PRP Search Reports for government entities in the last five (5) years.

0 points

• The firm has provided less than 15 PRP Search Reports for government entities in the last five (5) years.

7.A.xi.a See Scoring Scale A 10

7.A.xi.b See Scoring Scale A 10

7.A.xi.c See Scoring Scale A 10

7.A.xii

20 points The narrative includes a complete client contact list that includes all of the following for each cited project:

• project name

• client name

• verifiable contact person

• telephone number

• email address

15 points

• The narrative includes a client contact list with minor omissions or a few incomplete entries

10 points

• The narrative includes a client contact list with multiple omissions or incomplete entries.

0 points

• The narrative does not include a client contact list

Clarity of Section

7.A See Scoring Scale B 25

Total 215 Points

Sample Title Search and Report: Evaluation Criteria for Requirements Set Forth in Section 7.B

Ref. # Description Maximum Points

Possible

7.B.i

15 points

• Title Search and Report is conducted and finalized within the last 3 years.

• Complete report is provided, including all sections referenced in the table of contents, appendices, any referenced maps and any other exhibits.

0 points

• The Title Search and Report was conducted and finalized more than three (3 )years prior to the release of the RFP.

• Report provided is incomplete.

7.B.i.a

10 points

• Title Search and Report, including all references, are fully searchable (text is selectable and Ctrl+F/Find works for names/APNs).

5 points

• Some but not all of the Title Search and Report is searchable

0 points

• Title Search and Report is not searchable.

7.B.i.b

10 points

• Title Search and Report thoroughly covers 50 years or more of the site history.

5 points

• Title Search and Report thoroughly covers 40–49 years of site history.

0 points

• Title Search and Report covers less than 40 years of site history.

7.B.i.c

10 points

• The Title Search and Report includes a one (1) page cover sheet listing the original project purpose, intended audience and the client for which the report was prepared and provides the client contact name, telephone number, and e‑mail address.

0 points

• The Title Search and Report does not include a cover sheet or the cover sheet does not contain enough or accurate client information for the report to be verified.

7.B.i.e

20 points

• Past and present owners and operators are clearly identified for the subject site and surrounding properties (e.g., abutting parcels).

• Owner names, corporate names (as applicable), dates or periods of ownership, and source citations such as deeds assessor records, or other validated documents are included.

10 points

• Past and present site ownership is included, but not all adjacent properties are identified, or the report is missing some dates, sources, or names/parties.

0 points

• Ownership information is largely missing or limited to the current owner only.

Clarity of Section

7.B See Scoring Scale B 25

Total

Sample PRP Search Report: Evaluation Criteria for Requirements Set Forth in Section 7.C

Ref. # Description Maximum Points

Possible

7.C.i

10 points

• PRP Search Report is conducted and finalized within the last three (3) years.

• Complete PRP Search Report is provided, including all sections referenced in the table of contents, appendices, any referenced maps and any other exhibits.

0 points

• PRP Search Report was conducted and finalized more than three

(3) years prior to the release of the RFP or it is incomplete.

7.C.i.a

10 points

• PRP Search Report, including all sections referenced in the table of contents, appendices, and any referenced maps and any other exhibits, is fully searchable (text is selectable and Ctrl+F/Find works for names/APNs).

5 points

• Some but not all of the PRP Search Report is searchable

0 points

• PRP Search Report is not searchable.

7.C.i.b

25 points

• PRP Search Report provides detailed and thorough documentation of at least 50 years of site history and includes complete operational history and current regulatory status.

13 points

• PRP Search Report covers 45 - 49 years of site history or operational and/or regulatory details are incomplete.

0 points

• PRP Search Report Covers less than 45 years of site history or operational or regulatory history is largely missing.

7.C.i.c

25 points

• The PRP Search Report includes a one (1) page cover sheet listing the original project purpose, intended audience and the client for which the report was prepared and provides the client contact name, telephone number, and e‑mail address.

0 points

• The PRP Search Report does not include a cover sheet or does not include enough or accurate project and/or client information for the report to be verified.

7.C.i.e

25 points

• PRP Search Report documents three (3) or more distinct parcels and three or more historic industrial operations.

13 points

• PRP Search Report documents only two (2) parcels or is limited to two historical operators.

0 points

• Property does not include multiple parcels or does not include multiple historic operators.

7.C.i.f.i-iii See Scoring Scale A 25

7.C.i.f.iv-v See Scoring Scale A 10

7.C.i.f.vi See Scoring Scale A 10

7.C.i.f.vii See Scoring Scale A 10

7.C.i.f.viii See Scoring Scale A 15

7.C.i.f.ix See Scoring Scale A 10

7.C.i.g-h See Scoring Scale A 20

Clarity of Section 7.C See Scoring Scale B 25

Organizational Chart, Resumes, and Personnel Experience Form: Evaluation Criteria for Requirements Set Forth in Section 7.D

Scoring Ref. # Description Maximum Points

Possible

7.D.i

10 points

• The organizational chart is complete and substantively demonstrates an understanding of the resource needs of the…