4-ITB-26-00317 Library Book Returns with Carts.pdf

Invitation to Bid Library Book Returns with Carts

ITB-26-00317

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SOLICITATION TYPE: Competitive Sealed Bids

SOLICITATION NUMBER: ITB-26-00317

SOLICITATION TITLE: Library Book Returns with Carts

BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (County) is seeking competitive sealed bids from experienced and qualified suppliers for the one-time purchase of Kingsley (Brand) 50 C-Series Book Returns with carts (or equivalents).

DUE DATE & TIME: July 24, 2026 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time (as recorded by the County’s Electronic Bidding System)

ISSUING DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR:

The Director of Procurement is considered the issuing department director for the purpose of Section 2-567(c) of the Hillsborough County Procurement Protest Policy and Procedures Ordinance.

BID SUBMISSION: The County will only accept bids submitted through its electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement). Bids that are submitted or delivered by non-electronic means (hard-copy paper), facsimile, electronic mail (e-mail), electronic file, or means other than through the County's electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement) will not be accepted or considered. Please visit our vendors webpage (hcfl.gov/vendors) for information regarding vendor registration, electronic bid submission, procurement opportunities, and other important resources.

TIMELINESS: To preserve the integrity of the competitive sealed bid process, bids submitted after the due date and time listed above, unless otherwise amended, cannot and will not be accepted. Please do not wait until the last minute, hour, or day to submit your bid, as you may encounter technical difficulties or issues that cannot be resolved before the due date and time. When preparing to submit your bid, please read and follow all instructions regarding formatting and other details related to the form(s) to be used. Again, please do not wait until it’s too late for assistance. We value and need your participation, so the last thing we want is for you to miss this opportunity.

QUESTIONS: ● Questions regarding technical difficulties or errors encountered while submitting proposals through Euna Procurement must be directed to

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SUBMITTING BID

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Euna Procurement Support at 1-844-226-3862 or support.bonfire @eunasolutions.com.

● Questions regarding the specifications or solicitation document must be directed to the County using the “messages” section in Euna Procurement for this particular procurement.

• To be given consideration, such requests must be received no later than ten (10) calendar days after the date of Solicitation issuance in Euna Procurement, site visit, or pre-bid conference, whichever is later.

● Questions regarding vendor registration, training, or general questions must be directed to the Supplier Engagement Team at (813) 272-5790 or iSupplier@HCFL.gov.

CONE OF SILENCE: A Cone of Silence is in effect for this procurement; therefore, no bidder, interested party and/or their principals, officers, employees, attorneys, or agents shall communicate with County employees, the Hearing Master assigned to hear the applicable protest appeal and/or members of the Board of County Commissioners, including their aides and employees regarding this procurement and/or a related protest, except as otherwise provided in the Hillsborough County Procurement Protest Policy and Procedures Ordinance. The Cone of Silence does not prohibit a bidder from communicating with the Director of Procurement, staff in the Procurement Services Department, or the County’s attorney assigned to this procurement. Violating the Cone of Silence may disqualify the bidder from consideration for award. Please refer to the Instructions for complete details about the Cone of Silence.

INSURANCE: Insurance coverage is not required for this procurement.

SURETY (BONDS): Bid, performance, and/or payment surety is not required for this procurement.

E-VERIFY: The Department of Homeland Security's Image Program and E-Verify apply to this procurement. Please see General Terms and Conditions for complete details and requirements.

DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY COMPLIANCE:

Any and all information and communications technology developed, provided, procured, maintained, or otherwise made available under this Contract and intended for public access or use, shall comply with various accessibility standards. Please see General Terms and Conditions for complete details and requirements.

mailto:support.bonfire@eunasolutions.com mailto:support.bonfire@eunasolutions.com mailto:iSupplier@HCFL.gov https://library.municode.com/fl/hillsborough_county/codes/code_of_ordinances,_part_a?nodeId=HICOCOORLA_CH2AD_ARTVIPR_DIV3HICOPRPRPOPR_S2-562TI https://library.municode.com/fl/hillsborough_county/codes/code_of_ordinances,_part_a?nodeId=HICOCOORLA_CH2AD_ARTVIPR_DIV3HICOPRPRPOPR_S2-562TI

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1. SPECIFICATIONS

1.1. Scope

The Hillsborough County Library Services Department seeks a qualified Contractor to provide Kingsley (Brand) 50 C-Series book returns with carts (or equivalents) to one (1) delivery location. These book returns will be used across the County at various Libraries to allow residents to return rented books.

1.2. Minimum Requirements

1.2.1 The Contractor shall provide Kingsley (Brand) 50 C-Series Outdoor Return Systems Style – Standard Interior Cart without Lid (or equivalent).

The County will consider equivalent products; however, any proposed equivalent shall meet or exceed all salient characteristics listed in this Solicitation. The salient characteristics identified herein are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all features required for equivalency.

1.2.1.1 Capacity

1.2.1.1.1 380 standard 6” x 9” books (or greater), or

1.2.1.1.2 950 media cases (or greater)

1.2.1.2 Max Load: 400 pounds or greater.

1.2.1.3 Color: Gray with Black Graphics or equivalent high-contrast marking.

1.2.1.4 Decal Wording: shall read “Library Return” with a round icon (English) or equivalent clear public-facing marking easily identifiable as a return receptacle.

1.2.1.5 Performance and Construction Requirements

1.2.1.5.1 Material: Heavy-gauge aluminum or corrosion-resistant metal of equivalent strength and dent resistance.

1.2.1.5.2 Weather Protection: fully sealed seams, recessed deposit opening, drip-rail protection, and internal features that divert liquids away from deposited materials.

1.2.1.5.3 Security: Theft-deterrent chute design, vandal-resistant construction, locking mechanisms to secure the depository flap, and a full-length hinge or equivalent durable security hardware.

1.2.1.5.4 Accessibility: ADA-compliant deposit height and one-hand deposit capability for walk-up or drive-up use.

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1.2.1.5.5 Fire Protection: Suppresses internal flame spread or equivalent method of fire protection.

1.2.1.6 Book Return Cart

1.2.1.6.1 Cart must be no larger than 20” W x 21 5/16” D x 38 1/4”H

1.2.1.6.2 Material: Light-weight, rust-free and dent-resistant aluminum or equivalent.

1.2.1.6.3 Fixed handle.

1.2.1.6.4 Self-leveling float tray with a water resistant felt pad at the bottom.

1.2.1.6.5 Casters: Plate mounted and made of abrasive surface resistant material with a locking mechanism to keep the cart in place.

1.2.1.6.6 Construction: Distribution of materials mechanism and noise reducing.

1.3. Preparation for Delivery

1.3.1 Delivery of the goods and/or performance of the Services and/or Work must be no later than 30 Days after Contractor's receipt of a Purchase Order from the County. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for all freight charges. Offers that propose delivery timelines that do not fall within the aforementioned delivery time frame will be subject to rejection.

1.3.1.1 Delivery location: John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL 33602

1.3.1.2 Contractor shall provide a 24-hour notice prior to delivery.

1.3.1.3 There is no raised loading dock; deliverer will need to provide a lift truck for all deliveries.

1.3.1.4 Deliveries shall be made inside the premises at the designated location.

1.3.1.5 Contractor shall unpack the units, remove and discard the pallets and packing materials.

2. SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2.1. Basis for Award (Overall Low)

Award will be made to the lowest, responsive, and responsible Bidder meeting Specifications. Award will be made to a single Bidder for all line items. If a Bidder fails to submit an Offer on all line items, then that Bidder is not eligible for award.

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3. DEFINITIONS

The following words and expressions (or pronouns) shall, wherever they appear in this Solicitation Document and the Contract Documents, be construed as follows unless a different meaning is clear from the context.

3.1. Agreement

"Agreement" shall mean the written agreement between the County and the Contractor covering the goods and/or Services to be provided and/or the Work to be performed pursuant to this Solicitation Document. The Agreement (if one is required for this particular Solicitation Document) will be attached to and made a part of the Contract Documents.

3.2. Amendment(s), Addendum, or Addenda

"Amendment(s)", "Addendum", or "Addenda" shall mean the additional information and/or requirements concerning this Solicitation Document that are issued by the County, in writing, prior to the Close Date.

3.3. Bid(s), or Bidder's Bid

"Bid(s)", "Bidder’s Bid”, "Proposal(s)", or "Quote(s)" shall mean the offer, bid, proposal, or quote of the Bidder/Proposer submitted on the prescribed forms setting forth the prices for the Work to be performed, along with all other documents submitted by the Bidder/Proposer in response to this Solicitation Document.

3.4. Bidder

"Bidder" or "Proposer" shall mean any person, partnership, corporation or other entity or organization submitting a Bid, Proposal, or Quote to provide the goods, Services and/or Work solicited by the County in this Solicitation Document.

3.5. Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA)

“Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA)” shall mean the County’s written document to the Contractor stating the products/Services/Work to be provided, the pricing for said products/Services/ Work, the effective dates for the provision of said products/Services/Work, and any additional terms and conditions of the Contract, if applicable.

3.6. Board of County Commissioners

"Board of County Commissioners" shall mean the Board of County Commissioners of Hillsborough County, Florida.

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3.7. Bond

"Bond" or "Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)" shall mean bid bond, performance bond, and/or payment bond and other instruments of security furnished by the Bidder/Proposer/Contractor and its Surety in accordance with this Solicitation Document and/or the Contract Documents.

3.8. Business Day(s)

“Business Day(s) "shall mean Monday through Friday excluding public holidays.

3.9. Change Order

“Change Order” shall mean a written order or alteration to a Contract or Purchase Order signed by the appropriate County and Contractor authority directing an addition, deletion, or revision in the provision of the goods and/or Services or an adjustment in the Contract Price and/or Contract Time.

3.10. Close Date

"Close Date" shall mean the date and time set for delivery to the County of all Offers submitted in response to this Solicitation Document.

3.11. Contract or Contract Documents

"Contract" or "Contract Documents" shall mean the Definitions, Instructions, General Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Insurance and Bond requirements, Specifications, Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Requirements, all Amendment(s) issued, the Offer, the Agreement (if applicable), all the attached documents identified in this Solicitation Document, all supplementary drawings issued after award of the contract, all Change Orders, all Allowance Authorization Releases, and all provisions required by law to be a part of the Contract Documents, whether actually inserted therein or not.

3.12. Contract Price

"Contract Price" shall mean the total monies payable to the Contractor under the Contract Documents.

3.13. Contract Purchase Agreement (CPA)

“Contract Purchase Agreement (CPA)” shall mean the County’s written document to the Contractor stating the products/Services/Work to be provided, the pricing for said products/Services/ Work, the effective dates for the provision of said products/Services/Work, and additional terms and conditions of the Contract, if applicable.

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3.14. Contract Time or Contract Period

"Contract Time" or “Contract Period” shall mean the number of calendar Days stated in the Contract Documents for the completion of the Work and/or the provision of the goods and/or Services specified therein.

3.15. Contractor

"Contractor" shall mean the Successful Offeror, whether a corporation, partnership, individual or any combination thereof, and its, their or his/her successors, personal representatives, executors, administrators, and permitted assignees.

3.16. County

"County" shall mean the Board of County Commissioners, Hillsborough County, Florida, for whom the Contract is being performed.

3.17. County Administrator

"County Administrator" shall mean Hillsborough County's County Administrator, or a designee identified by the County Administrator to perform certain functions on behalf of the County Administrator.

3.18. Day(s)

"Day(s)" shall mean one calendar day.

3.19. Designee

"Designee" shall mean the person appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and/or the County Administrator to act on his/her behalf.

3.20. Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)

"Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)" or "Bond" shall mean bid bond, performance bond, and/or payment bond and other instruments of security furnished by the Bidder/Proposer and/or Contractor and its Surety in accordance with this Solicitation Document and/or the Contract Documents.

3.21. Electronic Bidding System

"Electronic Bidding System" shall mean the County’s Electronic Bidding System.

3.22. Invitation To Bid

“Invitation to Bid” shall mean the Solicitation Document issued by the County for the goods, Services and/or Work specified herein; and shall include the Definitions, Instructions, General Terms and

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Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Insurance and Bond requirements, Specifications, Requirements, and all Amendment(s) issued.

3.23. Minimum Specifications

"Minimum Specifications" shall mean the portion of the Specifications that address the technical requirements of the Work to be performed under this Contract including materials, equipment, and workmanship.

3.24. Modification Agreement

“Modification Agreement(s)” shall mean the written order to the Contractor authorizing an addition, deletion, or revision in the goods, Services and/or Work to be provided under the Contract Documents or an adjustment in the Contract Price issued after the award of and/or execution of the Contract/Agreement. Such written order must be approved and/or executed by the applicable authorized representatives of the County in accordance with County policy. Modification Agreements that are required to be approved by the Board of County Commissioners pursuant to County policy must be executed by the Contractor and the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners.

3.25. Notice

"Notice" shall mean a written notice for the County and the Contractor as set forth in this Solicitation Document and/or the Contract Documents.

3.26. Notice of Award

"Notice of Award" shall mean the written notice given by the County to the Successful Bidder/Proposer that said Bidder/Proposer has been selected by the County to provide the goods/Services and/or perform the Work specified in this Solicitation Document.

3.27. Notice to Proceed

"Notice to Proceed" shall mean the written notice given by the County to the Successful Bidder/Proposer and/or Contractor of the date for the Work to start and/or for the date of the Successful Bidder/Proposer and/or Contractor to provide the goods and/or Services specified in the Contract Documents.

3.28. Offer(s)

"Offer(s)" or "Bid(s)" or "Proposal(s)" or "Quote(s)" shall mean the offer, bid, proposal, or quote of the Offeror submitted on the prescribed forms setting forth the prices for the Work to be performed, along with all other documents submitted by the Offeror in response to this Solicitation Document.

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3.29. Offeror

"Offeror" shall mean any person, partnership, corporation or other entity or organization that has submitted an Offer, Bid, or Proposal to the County in response to a procurement solicitation issued by the County to provide equipment, supplies, materials, or Services.

3.30. Project

"Project" shall mean the entire action and/or improvement which is the subject of this Solicitation Document and/or the Contract Documents.

3.31. Project Manager

"Project Manager" shall mean the duly authorized representative of the Board of County Commissioners during the Contract Period.

3.32. Proposal(s)

"Proposal(s)" or "Bid(s)" or "Bidder’s Bid(s)” or "Quote(s)" shall mean the offer, bid, proposal, or quote of the Bidder/Proposer submitted on the prescribed forms setting forth the prices for the Work to be performed, along with all other documents submitted by the Bidder/Proposer in response to this Solicitation Document.

3.33. Proposer

"Proposer" or "Bidder" shall mean any person, partnership, corporation or other entity or organization submitting a Bid, Proposal, or Quote to provide the goods, Services and/or Work solicited by the County in this Solicitation Document.

3.34. Purchase Order

“Purchase Order” shall mean the County’s written document to the Contractor authorizing Work.

3.35. Quote(s)

"Quote(s)" or "Bid(s)" or "Bidder’s Bid(s)” or "Proposal(s)" shall mean the offer, bid, proposal, or quote of the Bidder/Proposer submitted on the prescribed forms setting forth the prices for the Work to be performed, along with all other documents submitted by the Bidder/Proposer in response to this Solicitation Document.

3.36. Service(s)

"Service(s)" shall mean the activity/improvement and/or the means or methods necessary for implementation and prosecution of the Project and/or Work that is the subject of the Contract Documents.

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3.37. Site(s)

"Site(s)" shall mean the area(s) upon or in which the Contractor’s operations are carried on and such other areas adjacent thereto as may be designated as such by the County.

3.38. Solicitation Document

"Solicitation Document" shall mean the solicitation issued by the County for the goods, Services and/or Work specified herein; and shall include the Definitions, Instructions, General Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Insurance and Bond requirements, Specifications, Requirements, and all Amendment(s) issued.

3.39. Specifications

"Specifications” shall mean the detailed information set forth in the “Specifications” Section of this Solicitation Document describing and/or concerning the goods, Services and/or Work being solicited by the County via this Solicitation Document, including, but not limited to, any terms and conditions contained within the “Specifications” Section, any Amendment(s) issued related to the “Specifications” Section, and/or any drawings or maps relating to the “Specifications” Section of this Solicitation Document.

3.40. Subcontractor

"Subcontractor" shall mean any person, firm or corporation other than employees of the Contractor who or which contracts with the Contractor to furnish, or actually furnishes labor, materials, and/or equipment for the Work and/or Project to be performed that is the subject of the Contract Documents.

3.41. Successful Bidder/Proposer

“Successful Bidder” or "Successful Proposer" shall mean the Contractor and vice versa, whether a corporation, partnership, individual or any combination thereof, and its, their or his/her successors, personal representatives, executors, administrators, and permitted assignees.

3.42. Surety

"Surety" shall mean any corporation that executes, as surety, the Bidder’s/Proposer's Bid/Proposal bond, and/or any corporation that executed, as surety, the Contractor’s Bid/Proposal, performance, and/or payment Bond.

3.43. Unilateral Change Order

“Unilateral Change Order” shall mean a written order or alteration to a Contract or Purchase Order signed by the appropriate County authority directing an addition, deletion, or revision in the provision of the goods and/or Services or an adjustment in the Contract Price and/or Contract Time that does not require concurrence of the Contractor.

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3.44. Work

"Work" shall mean any and all obligations, duties and responsibilities necessary for the successful delivery of the goods and/or the successful completion of the Services, Project and/or tasks assigned to or undertaken by the Contractor pursuant to the Contract Documents, including, but not limited to, the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment and other incidentals contemplated by and/or related to the Contracted Documents.

4. INSTRUCTIONS

4.1. Bid Submissions

4.1.1 The County shall only accept Offers through its Electronic Bidding System.

4.1.2 Offers delivered by non-electronic means, facsimile, electronic mail (e-mail) or electronic means other than through the County's Electronic Bidding System will not be considered.

4.2. Non-Discrimination and Compliance with Laws

4.2.1 Bidder shall comply with the requirements of all applicable federal, state and local laws prohibiting discrimination and the rules, regulations, policies, and executive orders promulgated thereunder, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

4.2.2 The County prohibits any person/business involved in County contracting and procurement activities, to discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.

4.2.3 Bidder shall comply with the requirements of all applicable federal, state and local laws and the rules, regulations, policies and executive orders promulgated thereunder, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

4.3. Award of Contract and Rejection of Bids

4.3.1 A Contract, if awarded, will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible Bidder in accordance with this Solicitation Document and applicable law.

4.3.2 The County, in its sole discretion, may determine whether acceptance of the Bid/Quote is in the best interest of the County. Further, the County reserves the right to reject any and all Bids/Quotes and to waive any informality concerning a Bid/Quote whenever such rejection or waiver is in the best interest of the County and in conformance with Florida Law.

4.3.3 The County also reserves the right to reject the Bid/Quote of any Bidder:

4.3.3.1 determined to be non-responsible due to failure to perform properly or timely on a comparable contract; and

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4.3.3.2 who is not in a position to perform the contract.

4.3.4 Bidder must have the capacity, knowledge, skill and general ability to fully perform. Bidder must also have the integrity, reliability and other applicable qualities that will ensure good faith performance. The County reserves the right to require Bidder to submit documentation and other evidence attesting to the Bidder’s responsibility. The County may reject Bidder’s Bid/Quote if, at the County’s sole discretion, Bidder fails to submit documents and evidence of responsibility and/or the County has determined that the Bidder is not responsible.

4.4. Bid Documents

4.4.1 The Definitions, Instructions, General Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Insurance and Bond requirements, Specifications, Requirements, any Amendment(s) issued, together with all the attached documents herein identified constitute the entire Solicitation Document, and must be the basis of all Offers.

4.4.2 Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer pricing, in addition to all Amendment(s) issued, and any other documentation required by this Solicitation Document that is submitted by the Bidder/Proposer in response to this procurement shall constitute the Offer. The Bidder/Proposer is only required to submit its Offer in addition to any Amendment(s) issued and any other documentation required by this Solicitation Document.

4.4.3 The Definitions, Instructions, General Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Requirements, Insurance and Bond requirements, Specifications, Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action requirements, all Amendment(s) issued, the Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer, the Agreement, if applicable, together with all other attached documents herein identified and all supplementary drawings issued after award of the Contract shall constitute the “Contract Documents” upon the award of this Solicitation Document.

4.5. Bid/Proposal/Quote Pricing

Pricing must be quoted only in the space(s) provided within this Solicitation Document; no other form(s) will be accepted. When applicable, all prices quoted are to be free-on-board (F.O.B.) to the job site or specified delivery location in Hillsborough County, Florida.

4.6. Bid/Proposal/Quote Results

Preliminary results are generally available within two (2) Business Days to Bidders/Proposers in the County’s Electronic Bidding System.

4.7. Bidder/Proposer Request for Interpretation of Solicitation Document

No interpretation of the meaning of the Specifications or Scope of Work contained in this Solicitation or related Contract Documents will be made to any Bidder/Proposer orally. Every request for such interpretation must be submitted in writing through the electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement). To be given consideration, such requests must be received no later than ten (10)

ITB-26-00317 Page 13 calendar days after the date of Solicitation issuance in Euna Procurement, site visit, or pre-bid conference, whichever is later. All interpretations and supplemental instructions provided by the County will be in the form of a written amendment which, if issued, will be communicated to all Bidders/Proposers who have acknowledged participation within Euna Procurement. All issued amendments shall become part of the Contract Documents. No Bids or Proposals shall be submitted or accepted through electronic mail (e-mail), facsimile, or by hard copy (paper). Bids and Proposals will only be accepted and considered if submitted through Euna Procurement.

4.8. Bidder/Proposer Responsible for Examining/Investigating Work Site(s)

If applicable to this Solicitation Document, Bidder/Proposer is solely responsible for examining all Sites of the proposed Work and conducting any investigations necessary to inform itself of any difficulties that may be involved in the completion of the Work. Bidder’s/Proposer's failure to conduct such examinations and investigations shall not:

4.8.1 excuse the Successful Bidder’s/Proposer's failure to complete the Work in accordance with the Specifications and requirements set forth in this Solicitation Document based on the Successful Bidder’s/Proposer's ignorance of conditions or difficulties that may exist prior to the Close Date or of conditions or difficulties that may be encountered during the execution of the Work; and/or

4.8.2 be a basis for any claims for additional compensation and/or for any extensions of time.

4.9. Procurement Policy and Procedures and Hillsborough County Ordinance – Protest Process and Procedures

Offeror is advised that by submitting an Offer, Offeror hereby agrees to comply with the County’s Procurement Policy and Procedures, including, but not limited to, the County’s policy and procedures regarding Bid protests and Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws, Part A, Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 3. The County’s Procurement Policy and Procedures can be found on the County’s website at:

https://hcfl.gov/businesses/doing-business-with-hillsborough/vendors/vendor-policies-forms-and-documents

Offeror is further advised that pursuant to Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws, Part A, Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 3, Sec. 2-567(b)(i), any protest of the Specifications and/or terms and conditions contained within this Solicitation Document must be received by the County no later than five (5) Business Days before the Close Date/Bid Submittal Deadline set forth in this Solicitation Document.

4.10. Bidder's/Proposer's Understanding of the Solicitation Document

Bidder/Proposer is solely responsible for reading and completely understanding this Solicitation Document in its entirety.

https://hcfl.gov/businesses/doing-business-with-hillsborough/vendors/vendor-policies-forms-and-documents https://hcfl.gov/businesses/doing-business-with-hillsborough/vendors/vendor-policies-forms-and-documents

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4.11. Brand Names, Etc.

4.11.1 In instances where the Specifications make this subject applicable, any use therein of brand names, manufacturers' names, trade names, information and/or catalog numbers are used solely for the purpose of providing descriptions and for establishing acceptable quality levels.

Such references are not intended to place restriction on the Bidders/Proposers (other than as to quality) and Bidders/Proposers may propose and describe upon the Bid/Proposal/Quote forms deviations that the Bidder/Proposer believes to be equal to or better than the requirements set forth in this Solicitation Document. The burden of proof that the Bidder's/Proposer's proposed brand is in fact equal lies with the Bidder/Proposer.

4.11.2 Bidders/Proposers must furnish all requested information in the spaces provided on the Bid Proposal. Additionally, where required pursuant to the provisions of this solicitation, Bidders must submit the following with their Bid Proposal: catalog cuts, sketches, descriptive literature, and/or complete specifications relative to the items proposed and offered. References to previously submitted material concerned with previous Bid Proposals are not acceptable to County.

4.12. Cancellation of Solicitation Document

The County reserves the right to cancel, in whole, or in part, this Solicitation Document when deemed to be in the best interest of the County.

4.13. Compliance With Occupational Safety and Health Act (O.S.H.A.)

In instances where such is applicable due to the nature of a Solicitation Document, all material, equipment, etc., as proposed and offered by the Bidder/ Proposer must meet and conform to all O.S.H.A. requirements.

4.14. Condition of Goods, Shipping Costs, and Claims Against Carrier

Unless otherwise specified, all goods supplied will be new, not used or re-manufactured.

Bid/Proposal/Quote prices shall include costs of delivery, shipping and handling. Any claims against the carrier will be the responsibility of the Contractor.

4.15. Cone of Silence

Pursuant to Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws, Part A, Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 3, there shall be a Cone of Silence for all procurement solicitations (except sole source procurement) issued by the County that are at or over the County's formal bid limit in order to safeguard the integrity of the County’s procurement and protest process . Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the Cone of Silence shall go into effect on the date a procurement solicitation is issued by the County and shall end the earlier of five (5) Business Days after the County posts its notice of intent to award the contract(s) associated with this solicitation or on the date the procurement solicitation is canceled by the County. However, if a protest is timely filed, then the Cone of Silence shall remain in effect for the duration of the protest process including the exhaustion of any related appeals related to the

ITB-26-00317 Page 15 protest. Unless otherwise provided for in Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws, Part A, Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 3, during the time period the Cone of Silence is in effect, no Offeror, interested party and/or their principals, officers, employees, attorneys or agents shall communicate with County employees, the Hearing Master assigned to hear the applicable protest appeal and/or members of the Board of County Commissioners, including their aides and employees regarding a procurement solicitation and/or its related protest. The Cone of Silence does not prohibit an Offeror from communicating with the Director of the County’s Procurement Services Department, County Procurement staff, or the attorney in the County Attorney’s office that is directly responsible for the applicable procurement solicitation. It is the responsibility of any Offeror/interested party to ensure that the Cone of Silence is no longer in effect prior to communicating with any person under the Cone of Silence (including determining whether protests have been filed for the subject solicitation and the status of such protests – which extends the Cone of Silence time period as stated above). A violation of the Cone of Silence will result in the disqualification of the Offeror from consideration in the award of the procurement solicitation unless it is determined that the violation is unintentional and/or not material.

4.16. Deviations

Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer must state all deviations to the exact requirements imposed upon the Bidder/Proposer. Such deviations must be stated upon the Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer form;

otherwise, the County may consider Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer as being made in strict compliance with the requirements of this Solicitation Document. The County reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Offers, or separable portions thereof, and to waive any minor irregularity, technicality, or omission if doing so will serve the County’s best interest. Only Offers which conform in all material respects to this Solicitation Document will be accepted. The County may reject any Offer not submitted in the manner specified by this Solicitation Document.

4.17. Drug Free Workplace Program

Pursuant to Section 287.087, Florida Statutes, Bidders/Proposers may submit with their Offers a certificate certifying that they have implemented a drug free workplace program. If two or more Offers are equal in price, quality, and service, preference will be given in the award process to the Bidder/Proposer who has furnished such certification with its Offer. A copy of the Drug-Free Workplace Form is attached to this solicitation and is also available from the Procurement Services Department website at:

https://hcfl.gov/departments/procurement

4.18. Electronic Payment Solution

4.18.1 Automated Clearing House (ACH). Payments from the County will be made through an ACH payment solution where Offerors are paid with direct deposit. If the Offeror requests to opt out of being paid by direct deposit, then the Offeror should indicate its opt out in its Offer.

https://hcfl.gov/departments/procurement

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4.18.1.1.1 Note: If Bidder is already enrolled in the County's ACH solution for an existing contract/award, the Bidder will automatically receive payment using their enrolled solution in the event the Bidder is the Successful Bidder.

4.18.2 To enroll in ACH, Bidders must complete the Direct Deposit Authorization Form (included in this solicitation) or at:

https://hcfl.gov/businesses/doing-business-with-hillsborough

4.19. Equipment Demonstration

Prior to the Award of this Solicitation Document, the County reserves the right to require a demonstration of equipment as proposed in Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer. Each Bidder/Proposer shall be prepared to schedule a demonstration of the type of equipment proposed at a time and location mutually agreeable to the Bidder/Proposer and the County. The location should be within reasonable traveling distance from the County, and the County shall be responsible for the travel expenses of its County staff members attending such demonstration. Equipment demonstration may be of Bidder/Proposer-owned equipment or third-party-owned equipment. Failure on the Bidder's/Proposer’s part to provide the equipment demonstration as described may result in the rejection of its Offer and/or suspension from consideration for award of bids, proposals, or contracts with the County for a period of up to twenty-four (24) months.

4.20. Execution of Written Agreement

Within ten (10) Days of the Notice of Award, the Successful Bidder/Proposer will be required to sign a written Agreement if one has been made a part of this Solicitation Document and identified as the “Agreement”.

4.21. Facilities Inspection

Prior to the award of this Solicitation Document, the County reserves the right to inspect the Bidder's/Proposer's facility and place of business to determine that the Bidder/Proposer has a regular, bona fide established business that is presently an on-going concern and is likely to continue as such, and is capable of providing the products and/or services, including any later warranty service, or replacement parts support as may be required.

4.22. Hillsborough County Business Tax

All Offerors are required to comply with Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws, Part A, Chapter 46, Article III, as may be amended in the future. Failure of an Offeror to comply with such regulation shall not be a basis to protest the County’s award of the Contract; instead, any reported failure of an Offeror to comply with these regulations will be referred to the Hillsborough County Tax Collector.

https://hcfl.gov/businesses/doing-business-with-hillsborough

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4.23. Inspection of Samples

After the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date, the County reserves the right to review and inspect representative samples of the products/goods being proposed by the apparent lowest responsive Bidder/Proposer. Within ten (10) Business Days of receiving a request from the County, Bidder/Proposer shall provide the County with samples of each item requested for the purpose of the County conducting a quality test or comparison without cost to the County. At the County’s option, this inspection may take place locally, at the Bidder’s/Proposer's place of business or at a location selected by the County. The County will not be responsible for shipping or other expenses incurred by the Bidder/Proposer in the qualification of its products or company. The County makes no guarantee that samples will be returned; however, samples not destroyed in testing may be available for return upon request (at the Bidder’s/Proposer's expense) after testing is completed and after award of the Contract. Failure to provide the samples described above may result in the rejection of Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer and/or suspension of Bidder/Proposer from bidding/proposing on County procurements.

4.24. Licensing

Bidder/Proposer shall be properly licensed for the appropriate category of Work specified in this Solicitation Document. All Bidders/Proposers are requested to submit any required license(s) with their Offers. License(s) must be effective as of the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date and must be maintained throughout the Contract Period. Failure to be properly licensed as stated above will result in the rejection of the Offer as non-responsive.

4.25. Modification and/or Withdrawal of Offer Prior to Close Date

Prior to the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date, Offers may be withdrawn upon written request signed by the Bidder/Proposer and submitted and/or postmarked to the County prior to the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date. Withdrawn Offers will not be returned to the Bidder/Proposer. Except as specifically provided for herein, Bidders/Proposers may not modify their Offers after the specified Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date. Negligence on the part of the Bidder/Proposer in preparing its Offer confers no right of withdrawal or modification of its Offer after such Offer has been opened by County staff at the specified time and place. Bidders/Proposers may not withdraw or modify their Offers after the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date.

4.26. No Assignment of Offers

Bidder/Proposer may not assign or otherwise transfer its Offer prior to or after the Bid Submittal Deadline/Close Date.

4.27. Obtaining Clarification and/or Additional Information

Bidders/Proposers are instructed not to contact County employees regarding this Solicitation Document with the exception of employees of the Procurement Services Department. Potential

ITB-26-00317 Page 18

Bidders/Proposers requesting clarification or additional information should contact the Procurement Services Department through the electronic bidding system’s messaging system.

4.28. Public Entity Crimes Statement

A person or affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a public entity crime may not submit an offer, or reply on a contract to provide any goods or services to a public entity; may not submit an offer, or reply on a contract with a public entity for the construction or repair of a public building or public work; may not submit offers, or replies on leases of real property to a public entity; may not be awarded or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under a contract with any public entity; and may not transact business with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017, Florida Statutes, for CATEGORY TWO for a period of thirty-six (36) months following the date of being placed on the convicted vendor list. Additionally, pursuant to County policy, a conviction of a public entity crime may cause the rejection of an Offer. The County may make inquiries regarding alleged convictions of public entity crimes. The unreasonable failure of a Bidder/Proposer to promptly supply information in connection with an inquiry may be grounds for rejection of an Offer.

4.29. Prohibition Against Considering Social, Political, or Ideological Interests in Government Contracting

Bidders are advised that pursuant to Florida Statutes, Section 287.05701, the County cannot (a) request documentation of or consider a Bidder’s social, political, or ideological interests when determining if the Bidder is a responsible vendor, and (b) give preference to a Bidder based on the Bidder’s social, political, or ideological interests.

4.30. Requested Information and Descriptive Literature

Bidder/Proposer must furnish all requested information in the spaces provided within this Solicitation Document. Additionally, where required, Bidders/Proposers must attach cuts, sketches, descriptive literature and/or complete specifications relating to the items proposed in the Bidder’s/Proposer's Offer.

4.31. Responsibility Reference(s) Request

The apparent low Offeror will be so notified by County staff and may be required, upon receiving such notice, to provide the reference(s) requests demonstrating recent experience in providing substantially similar services and provide all information and documentation requested therein within five (5) Business Days. If, after reviewing the references and accompanying submissions, the County elects to reject the apparent low Offeror based on its responsibility evaluation, the County may perform the same responsibility evaluation, in succession, with each apparent next lowest Offeror until a contract is awarded to a suitable candidate or withdrawn.

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4.32. Submittal Deadline

Offeror must submit its Offer prior to the time specified in the Close Date. Late Offers will not be accepted.

4.33. Taxes

State sales and Federal Excise taxes shall not be included in the Bidder's/Proposer's Offer, as Hillsborough County is tax exempt. The Director of Procurement Services will sign exemption certificates submitted by the Bidder/Proposer.

4.34. Time Period Offer is Valid

Offeror's Offer shall be in force for a period of not less than ninety (90) Days after the Close Date.

Further, said Offer shall continue in force after said ninety (90) Day period, until thirty (30) Days following the date of receipt by County of written notice from the Offeror of its intent to withdraw its Offer, or until the date specified in said written notice as the expiration date of the Offer, whichever is later. The aforementioned time periods will remain in effect irrespective of whether an award has been made by the County. Notwithstanding the provisions of the preceding sentence, the Offeror may extend its Offer at any time prior to the scheduled expiration thereof.

4.35. Unbalanced Offers and/or Excessive Line Item Prices

The County reserves the right to reject any Offer in which unit prices, in the sole opinion of the County, are unbalanced. In addition, where the County has decided to award this Solicitation Document, it further reserves the right not to utilize a particular line item that, in the sole opinion of the County, is excessively priced, and reserves the right to obtain that item from another source.

4.36. Unit Prices

If the unit price and the extension price (unit price multiplied by the estimated quantity) are at variance, the unit price shall prevail. The unit price shall be rounded to two (2) digits following the decimal point. Any digits beyond the second decimal place will be used for rounding to the nearest hundredth.

4.37. Purchase Order/Contract

By submitting an Offer, the Bidder/Proposer declares that it understands and agrees that Bidder’s/Proposer’s Offer in addition to the Specifications, the Instructions, the General Terms and Conditions, the Special Terms and Conditions, the Insurance and Bond requirements, any Amendment(s) issued and all applicable attachments to this Solicitation Document shall become a valid contract between the County and the Contractor upon approval of the contract award by the Board of County Commissioners (if applicable), upon approval of the contract award by the County Administrator (if applicable), or upon the County’s issuance of a Contract Purchase Agreement, Blanket Purchase Agreement, or Purchase Order, whichever occurs sooner.

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5. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

5.1. Applicable Law

Unless otherwise specified, this Contract, including, but not limited to, the interpretation, bidding, award, execution and implementation thereof, shall be governed by the laws, rules, and regulations of the State of Florida.

5.2. Changes in the Work/Change Orders/Modifications

5.2.1 All additions, deletions, or revisions to the Contract shall be valid and enforceable only when authorized by a written Change Order or Modification Agreement approved and/or executed by the applicable authorized representatives of the County in accordance with County policy. Modification Agreements that are required to be approved by the Board of County Commissioners pursuant to County policy must be executed by the Contractor and the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. Only upon receipt of a Change Order or Modification Agreement shall the Contractor be authorized to proceed with the Work involved. All such Work shall be executed under the applicable terms and conditions contained in the Contract Documents.

5.2.2 Additional Work performed by the Contractor without the authorization of a Change Order or Modification Agreement will not entitle the Contractor to an increase in the Contract Price or an extension of the Contract Time except in the case of an emergency as provided for herein. The effect of this paragraph shall remain paramount and shall prevail irrespective of any conflicting provisions contained in these Contract Documents.

5.2.3 It is the Contractor’s responsibility to notify its Surety of any changes affecting the general scope of the Work/Services or change of the Contract Price, and the amount of the applicable Bond(s) shall be adjusted accordingly.

5.3. Contractor Must Use E-Verify, Must Have Legally Authorized Workforce & Utilize IMAGE Best Practices

5.3.1 E-Verify

5.3.1.1 Pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 448.095, the Contractor (and its Subcontractors) are required to utilize the United States Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) E-Verify system for all newly hired employees. The E-Verify system is an Internet-based system operated by DHS that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees.

5.3.1.2 Contractor is advised that there is no requirement that the Contractor must be registered with and use the E-Verify system prior to or at the time the Contractor submits its bid/offer to the County. However, in the event the Contractor is selected for the award of this contract, then the Contractor is required to be registered with, and use the E-Verify system. The County shall not award this contract to the Contractor if the Contractor has not

ITB-26-00317 Page 21 complied with the E-Verify registration and usage requirements set forth in Florida Statutes Section 448.095 by or at the time of contract award.

5.3.1.3 Pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 448.095, the Contractor must obtain an affidavit from its Subcontractors stating that the Subcontractor does not employ, contract with, or subcontract with an unauthorized alien. The Contractor is required to maintain a copy of such affidavit for the duration of the Contract Period and shall provide the County with a copy of such affidavit within three (3) Business Days of the County’s request for said affidavit.

5.3.1.4 Contractor is advised that pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 448.095, the County is required to terminate this Contract if it has a good faith belief that the Contractor knowingly violated Florida Statutes Section 448.09(1); whereupon the Contractor will not be eligible for award of a public contract for at least one (1) year from the date of such termination.

5.3.1.5 Contractor is advised that pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 448.095, if the County has a good faith belief that a Subcontractor knowingly violated Florida Statutes Section 448.095(2) (but that the Contractor has otherwise complied with said Florida Statute), that the County is required to promptly notify the Contractor of such violation and order the Contractor to immediately terminate its contract with the applicable…