Attachment A RFB 758 24000000385-1 2-2-24.pdf

ELECTRONIC BID SUBMISSION

Bid responses shall be received by electronic submission in the eProcurement system.

An electronic bid shall be authorized by the proper agent of the firm by the act of submitting it electronically through the eProcurement system.

Bid information MUST be completed online. Response must contain all required information for the Solicitation.

All bidders MUST be registered in the Commonwealth eProcurement System via the Vendor Self Service System at https://emars311.ky.gov/webapp/vssprdonline3111d/AltSelfService

Allow 24 – 48 hours to complete Vendor Registration. Vendors must be logged in to their Vendor Self Service (VSS) account in order to submit a response. Registrations completed the day of bid closing must be completed by the Vendor in the VSS portal. The Customer Resource Center is not able to complete registrations and activate accounts on the same day. Closing dates will not be extended for Vendors not registered by the date/time of the bid closing. Vendor Self Service Registration Guides are provided at https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/ResourcesSupport/How%20to%20Respond %20to%20Online%20Bid%20through%20Kentucky%20Vendor%20Self%20Servi ce.pdf

All bidders are cautioned to begin their electronic submission in sufficient time to complete before the closing date and time. Delays due to technical difficulties or document upload impediments shall not be justification for acceptance of a late bid or proposal. Vendor attention to this advisory is encouraged. If you need assistance, please contact the Customer Resource Center (CRC) by email at Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov or phone 502-564-9641 or toll-free 877-973-HELP (4357).

Online bid responses must be in an “Accepted” status and shall be assigned a date and time stamp from the eProcurement system at the time of final acceptance and formal submission by the vendor. The system will not allow submission of an online response after the published date and time for closing.

An offer may be modified or withdrawn by electronic or written notice ONLY if received prior to the bid closing date and time. An electronic offer may be modified by applying the appropriate electronic signature and following the procedure in the state’s eProcurement signature.

https://emars311.ky.gov/webapp/vssprdonline3111d/AltSelfService https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/ResourcesSupport/How%20to%20Respond%20to%20Online%20Bid%20through%20Kentucky%20Vendor%20Self%20Service.pdf https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/ResourcesSupport/How%20to%20Respond%20to%20Online%20Bid%20through%20Kentucky%20Vendor%20Self%20Service.pdf https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/ResourcesSupport/How%20to%20Respond%20to%20Online%20Bid%20through%20Kentucky%20Vendor%20Self%20Service.pdf mailto:Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov

The following items MUST be submitted prior to award:

_____REVENUE FORM 10A100 KENTUCKY TAX REGISTRATION APPLICATION IF

APPLICABLE (see Section 37)

_____CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY – REGISTRATION WITH SECRETARY OF

STATE BY A FOREIGN ENTITY IF APPLICABLE (see Section 39)

_____REQUIRED AFFIDAVIT(S)

https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/FinanceForms/Annual%20Required%20Affidavit%20for%20Bidders%2 0Offerors%20and%20Contractors.pdf

_____EEO FORMS IF APPLICABLE (see Section 34) https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/FinanceForms/Annual%20Required%20Affidavit%20for%20Bidders%20Offerors%20and%20Contractors.pdf https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/FinanceForms/Annual%20Required%20Affidavit%20for%20Bidders%20Offerors%20and%20Contractors.pdf https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/FinanceForms/Annual%20Required%20Affidavit%20for%20Bidders%20Offerors%20and%20Contractors.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

Commonwealth of Kentucky Request for Bid (RFB)

For Mowing at Boone National Guard Facility

RFB 758 2400000385

Issued by The Finance and Administration Cabinet

On Behalf Of Department of Military Affairs

Release Date: February 2, 2024

Vendors’ Written Questions Due: February 16, 2024 4:30 PM EST CLOSING DATE AND TIME: February 22, 2024 1:30 PM EST

Commonwealth Buyer:

Stephanie Durr

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION CABINET

Office of Procurement Services

200 MERO STREET, 5TH FLOOR

FRANKFORT KY 40622

(502) 564-6521

Stephanie.durr@ky.gov mailto:Stephanie.durr@ky.gov

BID READINGS

Any person wishing to hear a bid reading may call the OPS conference line at 844-603-5060, Participant Code 44510, at 3:30pm, ET on the bid closing date.

PLEASE READ THIS SOLICITATION AND ITS INSTRUCTIONS IN ITS ENTIRETY.

This is a Request for Bid (RFB).

Vendors shall comply with the terms and conditions stated in the solicitation.

Any efforts to negotiate these terms and conditions SHALL NOT be accepted and SHALL cause the bid to be deemed non-responsive.

All proposed pricing shall remain valid for a minimum of sixty (60) calendar days after the bid due date.

This Contract shall be awarded as Group All. Vendors shall bid all line items, otherwise bid shall be deemed non-responsive.

Vendors should review and comply with the general bidding requirements listed under “Procurement Laws, Preference, Regulations and Policies” and “Response to Solicitation” located on the eProcurement Web page at https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx and https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx respectively. The vendor must comply with all applicable statutes, regulations and policies related to this procurement.

Solicitation

Terms and Conditions

Master Agreement

Section 1 https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx

Scope of Contract The Office of Procurement Services issues this solicitation to establish a Master Agreement for: Mowing at Boone National Guard Facility

Section 2 Bid Specifications (Requirements that include the words “Shall”, “Will”, “Must” indicate a mandatory requirement)

BNGC property consists of approx. 355 acres including building and pavement. 64.3 of these acres to be contracted finish mowing.

Area map is provided (see Attachment D) and will show the actual mowing areas of the property.

Grass height to be the same for all areas.

Frequency will be the same for all areas.

Limbs/sticks larger than 1” diameter and longer than 5’ will be removed by Boone Center staff.

Hours of availability will be Monday thru Friday dusk to dark. Weekends must be scheduled 24 hours prior.

Advanced notification will be 24 hours to prepare areas and determine that no activities are taking place.

The designated restroom facilities will be The BNGC Pavilion. Possible portables stationed at the back of BNGC if necessary.

Contract is for complete mowing, trimming and blowing off sidewalks and roadways.

Rain-outs, mechanical breakdowns or other situations in which the entire job is not finished must be made up or billed at a percentage of completion rate. The rate to be agreed upon by successful vendor and facilities manager.

Mow all turf areas on the BNGC campus as needed to maintain a turf height of 2”-4” as conditions dictate. Any bagged or caught clippings will be removed from site.

Mowing equipment and alternate mowing patterns shall be used to permit on site recycling of clipping where possible to present a neat appearance.

Grass adjacent to fixed objects shall be trimmed to match turf height. Vertical blade edging bi-weekly or as needed where turf meets finished concrete edge.

Mowing will be within 5” of trees, shrubs, buildings and fence lines. Remainder to be trimmed.

Trash, branches (smaller than 1” diameter and longer than 5’) and other debris shall be collected and removed prior to mowing.

Mowing will be weekly unless:

Mowing cannot be performed due to weather or turf conditions.

Turf is below 2”-4

Mowing interval shall not go beyond 10 days except in extreme circumstances of drought and shall be discussed with BNGC staff ahead of time

Turf has grown at a more rapid rate and needs to be done twice in a week.

The contractor shall establish a schedule with BNGC to maintain the same mowing day each week. BNGC shall be made aware ahead of time on any variance to this schedule.

All fence lines and obstructions may be sprayed with non-selective herbicides to reduce string trimming if desired, with approved aquatic herbicides to be used around drainage ditches. All herbicides must be applied by Kentucky Department of Agriculture certified applicator. Expected to occur weekly to semi-monthly during growing season. Coordinate with maintenance supervisor. Care shall be taken to avoid damaging desirable plants such as turf grass, trees, bushes, and flowers.

Manual removal of plants may be necessary to avoid damaging desirable plants.

Vendor must follow all federal, state and local laws and regulations to apply such chemicals.

At each mowing interval, paved areas will be blown off with each cut in order to clean debris from all hard surfaces including sidewalks and parking lots to maintain grass and debris free road and concrete surfaces.

Provide 30 day written notice of discontinuation of any or all services of the contract.

Contractors’ Employees:

Contractor shall be held responsible to ensure that he and each of his/her employees maintain themselves in a professional manner at all times.

Contractor shall be responsible for the conduct of their employees at all times and shall ensure that said employees are not in possession of controlled substances while on the grounds or under the influence of alcoholic beverages.

Insure that all employees wear the appropriate safety equipment and clothing.

Insure that clothing will not advertise alcoholic beverages or be offensive or inappropriate for a Military Facility.

Contractors’ Equipment:

Contractor to supply all mowing equipment, related supplies and fuel.

Park and unload equipment in the areas designated by BNGC Facilities Branch

Manager.

Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances and regulations governing safety, provide all safeguards needed for employees and equipment, and secure any and all permits and licenses that may be required.

BNGC shall not accept responsibility for the safekeeping of any of the contractor’s equipment. No equipment shall be left on the grounds, but removed at the end of each day, unless approved by the Facilities manager.

Any and all equipment used by the contractor to execute the services of this contract shall be in compliance with all facility, OSHA, or other safety requirements as applicable to that equipment/machinery.

No equipment owned by the contractor shall be left running or unattended and must be in sight of contractors employees at all times.

Contractor shall be required to meet OSHA requirements for personnel protective devices. It shall be at the cost and supervision of the contractor that each employee has been oriented for the type of proper wearing of protective devices.

Contractor’s vehicles shall be properly identified while on the grounds of the compound.

Insurance: Insurance Requirements Successful bids shall be responsible for maintaining the following coverage through the entire contract term:

1. Contractor’s General Liability Insurance in accordance with limits of liability of $1,000,000.00 per occurrence, $2,000,000.00 aggregate.

2. Kentucky worker’s compensation insurance in accordance with the requirements of KRS 45A.480 and KRS Chapter 342.

3. (If Auto coverage is required) An automobile/truck liability insurance policy covering owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles. Said policy of insurance to have a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence combined single limit for bodily injury, including death and property damage.

The successful bidder shall furnish an ACORD Certificate prior to award:

A. The certificate holder listed as:

Finance and Administration Cabinet, DCM Office of Procurement Services

200 Mero Street, 5th Floor Frankfort, Kentucky 40622

B. The Endorsement indicating the Commonwealth and its agents as an Additional Insured for the contract resulting from the solicitation.

C. The Contract number in the Description of Operations box.

Failure to furnish said certificates or failure to maintain the required coverage throughout the life of the awarded contract shall be grounds for cancellation of the contract.

The insurance coverage shall be in compliance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and shall be placed with a licensed resident or non-resident agent who represents insurance companies authorized to do business in Kentucky. A list of authorized companies can be found at https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/Company/Default.aspx.

The insurer shall have an AM Best rating of B+ or higher. Visit www.ambest.com for verification. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the bid being deemed non-responsive.

Industry Standards & Descriptive Specs:

The following documents outline in detail execution, performance, descriptive standards that are recognized in the industry. Contractor shall adhere to these industry standards.

• Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories Technical Report; “Mulch Application

Guidelines”, E. Thomas Smiley, Ph. D., Plant Pathologist;

https://www.bartlett.com/resources/Mulch-Application-Guidelines.pdf

• Label directions for any chemicals used in the execution of this contract

• SDS sheets for any chemicals used in the execution of this contract

• Kentucky Pesticide Education Program copyright © 2016 University of

Kentucky Department of Entomology; “Pesticide Laws and Regulations”;

http://pest.ca.uky.edu/PSEP/pdfs/allcat.pdf

• Kentucky Pesticide Education Program copyright © 2016 University of Kentucky Department of Entomology; “Laws and Regulations for Turf and Ornamentals”; http://pest.ca.uky.edu/PSEP/pdfs/cat3orn18golf20turf.pdf

Performance Schedule: All services will be scheduled and performed at a time when it will not interfere with the orderly performance of the services offered by BNGC. Schedule changes may be required at times for special events. The Contractor will coordinate the mowing and other services schedule with the BNGC maintenance manager. All contractor employees will sign in and out when performing services with the security officer at the front gate at each visit.

Contractor shall provide SDS to the maintenance branch manager for any chemical used prior to its use.

https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/Company/Default.aspx http://www.ambest.com/ https://www.bartlett.com/resources/Mulch-Application-Guidelines.pdf https://www.bartlett.com/resources/Mulch-Application-Guidelines.pdf http://pest.ca.uky.edu/PSEP/pdfs/allcat.pdf http://pest.ca.uky.edu/PSEP/pdfs/allcat.pdf http://pest.ca.uky.edu/PSEP/pdfs/cat3orn18golf20turf.pdf

Site Visit and Validation Form (Attachment C)-

A site visit validation form is required. Bidders are required to inspect the site where services are to be performed and to satisfy themselves as to all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of performance of the contract to the extent such information is reasonably obtainable. In no event shall a failure to inspect the site constitute grounds for a claim after award of the contract.

Pricing information shall not be made known in any form to agency representatives during the site visit. Failure to comply with this requirement shall render the bid non- responsive.

After inspecting the area, the vendor shall obtain the signature of the agency representative in the space provided at the bottom of the Site Validation Form and submit it with his/her bid to be considered for award. Failure to inspect the area and obtain the required signature shall result in the disqualification of the bid response. It is the bidder’s responsibility to verify any measurements of the location. Vendors are not to ask questions during the site visit(s). Any questions are to be submitted in writing to the Commonwealth Buyer

Potential bidders should clearly understand that any verbal representatives made or assumed to be made during any oral discussions held between representatives of potential bidders and any state employee or official are not binding on the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

For violation of this provision, the Commonwealth shall reserve the right to disqualify the bid/proposal.

Site visits may be scheduled Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Please contact Daniel Carriss, 502-607-1548 100 Minuteman Parkway, BLDG 162, Frankfort, KY 40601 daniel.t.carriss.nfg@army.mil to schedule a site visit.

Section 3 Purpose The purpose of this solicitation is to request vendor responses in order to provide these items under contract to agencies as needed.

Section 4 General This solicitation specifies requested items. It is not the intention of this solicitation to mailto:daniel.t.carriss.nfg@army.mil eliminate vendors or manufacturers of similar or equal equipment of the types specified.

It should be noted, however, that these requested items are written around specific needs of State agencies. The Commonwealth reserves the right to consider bids non-responsive if they do not comply with the specifications contained herein.

Section 5 Initial Contract Period The contract established from this solicitation shall be for the initial period of one (1) year beginning April 17, 2024.

Section 6 Renewal Clause – Optional Renewal Period This contract may be extended at the completion of the initial contract period for four (4) additional one-year periods. This extension must have the written approval by all parties. If the contract resulting from this solicitation provides for an optional renewal period, the Commonwealth of Kentucky reserves the right to renegotiate any terms and/or conditions as may be necessary to meet requirements for the extended period.

The vendor will be advised of any proposed revisions prior to the renewal periods. In the event proposed revisions cannot be agreed upon, either party shall have the right to withdraw without prejudice from either exercising the option or continuing the contract in an extended period.

Section 7 Exceptions to Specifications Vendors are cautioned that changes made to the solicitation other than in the designated fields for response shall render the response invalid and result in a non-responsive bid. Otherwise, it will be considered that items/services offered are in strict compliance with these specifications, and the successful bidder shall be held responsible for delivering materials/services that meet these specifications. Any exceptions shall be marked as such within the body of the bid and explained on a separate page. The Commonwealth is not bound to accept any exceptions.

Section 8 Alternate Brands/Specifications Not applicable to this solicitation.

Bidders who propose alternate brands/specifications should enclose descriptive literature with their bids so that the equality can be verified. Failure to enclose sufficient literature may result in a non-responsive bid. If the brands are not changed, the contract will be written accordingly and the successful bidder shall be required to deliver the brands/specifications stated in the solicitation.

Section 9 Recycle Requirements Prospective bidders are required to comply with Recycle Requirements for the purchase of goods, supplies, equipment, materials and printing with a minimum recycled content to the extent practicable per 200 KAR 5:330. This regulation can be viewed on the Internet at https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/200/005/330.pdf https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/200/005/330.pdf

Section 10 Acknowledgment of Addenda It is the vendor's responsibility to check the web site for any modifications to this solicitation. Electronic Bid submittal is the vendor’s agreement to be bound by the terms of all addenda issued.

Section 11 Agencies to be Served This contract shall be for use by the following agency of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:

Department of Military Affairs

Section 12 Solicitation Submission Requirements Paper Bids are NOT acceptable for this RFB and shall be considered non-responsive.

Section 13 Method of Award Best Value – Ranking Approach The Commonwealth intends to award a contract to the vendor, whose offer, conforming to the solicitation, is the most advantageous on the basis of "best value" for all products, services, and requirements contained herein.

An evaluation committee, or a designated individual, will evaluate the information provided by the vendor in response to the established measurable criteria contained in the solicitation.

Measurable Criteria:

Price 100 Points

Years in Business Pass/Fail

TOTAL POINTS 100 Points

Each vendor is responsible for submitting all relevant, factual and correct information with their offer to enable the evaluator(s) to afford each vendor the maximum score based on the available data submitted by the Vendor.

A bidder shall submit one (1) response to a solicitation and shall not propose more than one (1) model/brand for each item listed in the solicitation, except for requested tier pricing. Multiple or alternate bids offering more than one (1) bid price in total or by line item shall be rejected.

Vendors responding with the minimum Best Value requirements in this solicitation shall not be credited with Best Value points. Vendors responding with greater than the minimum requirements shall receive Best Value points. Failure to provide adequate information will impact the evaluated points awarded to the vendor.

A. PRICE (100 points)

The bidder with the lowest Price receives the maximum score. The bidder with the next lowest Price receives points by dividing the lowest Price by the next lowest price and multiplying that percentage by the available points. For example, 100 points is allocated to the lowest Price criteria for this procurement, bidder “A” bids $3.00 as the lowest bidder and receives the maximum 100 points ($3.00 / $3.00 =

1.00 x 100 = 100). Assume bidder “B” is the next lowest bidder at $4.00, then “B” receives 75 points ($3.00 / $4.00) = .75 x 100 = 75).

B. YEARS IN BUSINESS (pass/fail)

Five years as a licensed lawn care business is required. Offers not meeting this requirement shall be deemed non-responsive.

Vendor should enter number of years as a licensed lawn care business in the comments.

The Commonwealth reserves the right to require documentation verifying number of years as a licensed lawn care business.

Section 14 Tax Exempt Status Do not include Federal Excise Tax, Kentucky Sales or Use Tax in prices quoted in response to this solicitation.

Section 15 Basis of Price Revisions PRICE ADJUSTMENTS: Unless otherwise specified, the prices established by the contract resulting from this solicitation shall remain firm for the contract period subject to the following:

A: Price Increases: A price increase shall not occur during the first twelve (12) months of the contract. A vendor may request a price increase after twelve (12) months of the contract, which may be granted or denied by the Commonwealth. Any such price increase shall be based on industry wide price changes. The contract holder must request in writing a price increase at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date, and shall provide firm proof that the price increase(s) is justified. The Office of Procurement Services may request additional information or justification. If the price increase is denied, the contract holder may withdraw from the contract without prejudice upon written notice and approval by the Office of Procurement Services.

Provided, however, that the vendor must continue service, at the contract prices, until a new contract can be established (usually within sixty (60) days).

B: Price Decreases: The contract price shall be reduced to reflect any industry wide price decreases. The contract holder is required to furnish the Office of Procurement Services with notice of any price decreases as soon as such decreases are available.

C: Extended Contract Periods: If the contract provides for an optional renewal period, a price adjustment may be granted at the time the contract is renewed, subject to price increase justification as required in Paragraph A “Price Increases” as stated above.

Section 16 Vendor Terms and Conditions Solicitation or quotation forms that include terms and conditions not in conformity with the terms and conditions of this solicitation or the Statutes of the Commonwealth of Kentucky may be deemed non-responsive.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky shall not be bound by any part(s) of the bidder’s response to this solicitation that contains information, options, conditions, terms, or prices neither requested nor required in the solicitation. In the event of any conflicts between the specifications, terms and conditions indicated by the Commonwealth and those indicated by the contractor, those of the Commonwealth take precedence. The contract supersedes all bids or other prior agreements, oral or written, and all other communications between the parties relating to this subject.

Section 17 Post Contract Agreements The resulting contract shall constitute the entire agreement between the State and awarded contractor. Unless contractually provided, State agencies utilizing this contract will not be required to enter into nor sign further agreements, leases, company orders or other documents to complete or initiate the terms of a contract resulting from this solicitation or offer. Any such documents so obtained will be non-binding on the State and agents of the State and will be cause for breach of contract.

Section 18 Equipment Not applicable for this solicitation.

Section 19 Quantity Basis of Contract – Estimated Quantities Any and all quantities mentioned in this solicitation are purely estimates, and are not to be implied nor inferred as being guarantees. The State is obligated to buy only that quantity needed by its agencies during the term of the contract. Requirements may exceed the quantities shown and the contractor will be required to furnish all requirements shown on Delivery Orders dated during the life of the contract.

Section 20 Manuals and Distribution of Literature Not applicable to this solicitation.

Section 21

Vendor’s Report The vendor(s) may be asked to furnish the buyer, Office of Procurement Services, a report showing volume which has been sold to the Commonwealth and its using agencies each six (6) months of the contract period. The report will include political subdivisions and university purchases. This report may be the vendor’s computer printout sheet or form. This shall apply to all items, which are to become a part of this contract. This report must reference usage by brief description, product number or other format designated by the Office of Procurement Services.

Section 22 FOB Basis of Shipment – Vendor Responsible Quotations of unit prices on this solicitation shall be F.O.B. Destination Freight Prepaid and Allowed. The vendor shall be fully responsible for all shipments and freight charges involved to the ordering agency.

Section 23 Cancellation Clause – 30 Days Notice The Commonwealth may cancel the contract established from this solicitation by giving written notice thirty (30) days prior to effective cancellation date. In the event such action is taken, the contract shall be null and void upon receipt of a Modification from the Office of Procurement Services canceling the contract.

Section 24 Exception to Required Use of Contract The establishment of this Master Agreement is not intended to preclude the use of similar products when requested by the agency. The Commonwealth of Kentucky reserves the right to contract for large requirements by using a separate solicitation.

Section 25 Service Performance All services performed under this contract, if applicable, shall be in accordance with the terms and provisions of the contract. It will be the agency’s responsibility to ensure that such services rendered are performed and are acceptable.

The relationship between the State and the Contractor is that of client and independent contractor. No agent, employee, or servant of the contractor or any of its subcontractors shall be or shall be deemed to be an employee, agent, or servant of the State for any reason. The contractor will be solely and entirely responsible for its acts and the acts of its agents, employees, servants and subcontractors during the performance of this contract.

Major deviations of services performed will not be made without the written approval of the Office of Procurement Services. Problems that arise under any aspect of performance should first be resolved between the vendor and the agency. Either party should refer in writing any such problems and/or disagreements that cannot be resolved to the Office of Procurement Services for settlement.

Section 26

Addition or Deletion of Items or Services The Office of Procurement Services reserves the right to add new and similar items, with the consent of the vendor, to any contract awarded from this solicitation. The Office of Procurement Services to effect this change will issue a contract Modification.

Until such time as the vendor receives a Modification, the vendor shall not accept Delivery Orders from any agency referencing such items or services.

Section 27 Agreement between Parties By submitting a bid, the bidder acknowledges and agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions of the solicitation.

The bidder agrees that a resulting contract is the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between the parties, which supersedes all prior agreements, oral or written, and all other communications between the parties relating to the subject matter of this solicitation. It is further agreed between the parties, that any valid modification of contractual agreement must be formalized by issuance of a Contract Modification from the Office of Procurement Services.

Purchase or Sales Agreements, supplied by the bidder making an offer, in reply to the solicitation, will not be accepted. The only terms and conditions acceptable to the Commonwealth of Kentucky are as outlined in the solicitation. Bids not conforming will be considered as non-responsive.

Section 28 Governmental Restrictions In the event any Governmental restrictions may be imposed which would necessitate alteration of the material, quality, workmanship, or performance of the items offered on this proposal prior to delivery, it shall be the responsibility of the successful bidder to notify the Office of Procurement Services in writing, indicating the specific regulation which requires such alterations. The Commonwealth reserves the right to accept any such alterations, including any subsequent price adjustments, or to cancel the contract.

Section 29 Payments The vendor shall be paid, upon the submission of proper invoices to the receiving agency at the prices stipulated for the supplies delivered and accepted, or services rendered. Unless otherwise specified, payment will not be made for partial deliveries accepted. Payments will be made within thirty (30) working days after receipt of goods or a vendor’s invoice in accordance with KRS 45.453 and KRS 45.454.

Section 30 Inspection All supplies, equipment and services shall be subject to inspection or tests by the Commonwealth prior to acceptance. In the event supplies, equipment or services are defective in material or workmanship or otherwise not in conformity with specified requirements, the Commonwealth shall have the right to reject the items or services or require acceptable correction at the Vendor’s expense.

Section 31 Inquiries All questions shall be submitted in writing by FEBRUARY 16, 2024 4:30 PM EST to the Commonwealth buyer listed below. No questions shall be accepted after the date(s) listed unless the question(s) is considered material to the procurement. The Commonwealth shall respond to salient questions in writing by issuing an addendum to the solicitation. The addendum shall be posted to the Kentucky Vendor Self Service site.

(SUBMIT QUESTIONS IN WRITING VIA EMAIL TO THE COMMONWEALTH BUYER)

Sole Point of Contact – Commonwealth Buyer The Commonwealth Buyer listed below shall be the sole point of contact throughout the procurement process. All communications, oral and written (regular, express, or electronic mail), concerning this procurement shall be addressed to:

Commonwealth Buyer Stephanie Durr

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION CABINET

Office of Procurement Services

200 MERO STREET, 5TH FLOOR

FRANKFORT KY 40622

(502) 564-6521

Stephanie.durr@ky.gov

Restrictions on Communications From the issue date of this solicitation until a contractor(s) is selected and the selection is announced, offerors are not allowed to communicate with any Commonwealth Staff concerning this solicitation except:

• The Commonwealth Buyer cited in this solicitation

Potential bidders should clearly understand that any verbal representatives made or assumed to be made during any oral discussions held between representatives of potential bidders and any state employee or official are not binding on the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

For violation of this provision, the Commonwealth shall reserve the right to disqualify the bid/proposal.

Section 32 Subcontracts The contractor is permitted to make subcontract(s) with any other party for furnishing any of the work or services herein. The contractor shall be solely responsible for performance of the entire contract whether or not subcontractors are used. The Commonwealth shall not be involved in the relationship between the prime contractor and the subcontractor. Any issues that arise as a result of this relationship shall be mailto:Stephanie.durr@ky.gov resolved by the prime contractor.

All references to the contractor shall be construed to encompass both the contractor and any subcontractors of the contractor.

Section 33 Federal Tax Exempt Purchases by the Commonwealth of Kentucky Contracts Direct With Manufacturer: In the event a manufacturer bids direct and is awarded a contract, the Office of Procurement Services shall request the contractor to furnish evidence of registration with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. This registration shall be in accordance with the “Temporary Rules, 1958 Excise Tax Act”.

After such registration, individual Excise Tax Exemption Certificates are not necessary on each individual order issued against the contract by the Office of Procurement Services. Therefore, quoted prices must be exclusive of Federal Excise Taxes.

Contract With Other Than Manufacturer: If successful bidder is other than the manufacturer, the Office of Procurement Services will furnish a Tax Exemption Certificate with each individual order issued against this contract. Therefore, quoted prices must be exclusive of Federal Excise Taxes.

Section 34 EEO Requirements The Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1978 applies to All State government projects with an estimated value exceeding $500,000. The contractor shall comply with all terms and conditions of the Act.

https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx

Section 35 Governing Law This contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Any action brought against the Commonwealth on the contract, including but not limited to actions either for breach of contract or for enforcement of the contract, shall be brought in Franklin Circuit Court, Franklin County, Kentucky in accordance with KRS 45A.245.

Section 36 Protest Pursuant to KRS 45A.285, the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet, or his designee, shall have authority to determine protests and other controversies of actual or prospective offerors in connection with the solicitations or selection for award of a contract.

Any actual or prospective offeror or contractor, who is aggrieved in connection with solicitation or selection for award of a contract, may file protest with the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet. A protest or notice of other controversy must be filed promptly and in any event within two (2) calendar weeks after such aggrieved person knows or should have known of the facts giving rise thereto. All protests or notices of other controversies must be in writing and shall be addressed and mailed to:

HOLLY M. JOHNSON, SECRETARY

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION CABINET

200 MERO STREET, 5TH FLOOR

FRANKFORT KY 40622

The Secretary of Finance and Administration Cabinet shall promptly issue a decision in writing. A copy of that decision shall be mailed or otherwise furnished to the aggrieved party and shall state the reasons for the action taken.

The decision by the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet shall be final and conclusive.

Section 37 Kentucky Tax Registration Application Revenue Form 10A100, Kentucky Tax Registration Application effective July 2008, is a form to be completed by any person or entity wishing to contract with the Commonwealth to provide goods or services subject to sales and use tax pursuant to KRS 139.200. The form is located at the following link:

https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx

In accordance with administrative regulation 200 KAR 5:390, this form has to be completed and submitted, before a contract can be awarded. Section 2 of the regulation also notes: “Failure to submit the required documentation or to remain registered and in compliance with the sales and use tax filing and remittance requirements of KRS 139.540 and KRS 139.550 throughout the duration of the contract shall constitute a material breach of the contract and the contract may be terminated.”

Section 38 Access to Records The state agency certifies that it is in compliance with the provisions of KRS 45A.695, "Access to contractor's books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence directly pertinent to the contract." The Contractor, as defined in KRS 45A.030, agrees that the contracting agency, the Finance and Administration Cabinet, the Auditor of Public Accounts, and the Legislative Research Commission, or their duly authorized representatives, shall have access to any books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence, which are directly pertinent to this agreement for the purpose of financial audit or program review. The Contractor also recognizes that any books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence, received during a financial audit or program review shall be subject to the Kentucky Open Records Act, KRS 61.870 to 61.884. Records and other prequalification information confidentially disclosed as part of the bid process shall not be deemed as directly pertinent to the agreement and shall be exempt from disclosure as provided in KRS 61.878(1)(c).

Section 39 Registration with the Secretary of State by a Foreign Entity Pursuant to KRS 45A.480(1)(b), an agency, department, office, or political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Kentucky shall not award a state contract to a person that is a foreign entity required by KRS 14A.9-010:

to obtain a certificate of authority to transact business in the Commonwealth (“certificate”) from the Secretary of State under KRS 14A.9-030:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=40424 therefore, foreign entities should submit a copy of their certificate with their solicitation response. If the foreign entity is not required to obtain a certificate as provided in KRS 14A.9-010:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=44318, the foreign entity should identify the applicable exception in its solicitation response. Foreign entity is defined within KRS 14A.1-070:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50474

Businesses can register with the Secretary of State at:

https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Pages/default.aspx

Section 40 Accessibility Vendor hereby warrants that the products or services to be provided under this contract comply with the accessibility requirements of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. § 794d), and its implementing regulations set forth at Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, part 1194. Vendor further warrants that the products or services to be provided under this contract comply with existing federal standards established under Section 255 of the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 (47 U.S.C. § 255), and its implementing regulations set forth at Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, part 1193, to the extent the vendor's products or services may be covered by that act. Vendor agrees to promptly respond to and resolve any complaint regarding accessibility of its products or services which is brought to its attention.

Section 41 Funding Limitations If any or all responses received exceed the amount of funding available, then the Finance and Administration Cabinet, Office of Procurement Services, reserves the right to cancel this RFB.

Section 42 Provisions for Termination of the Contract Any contract resulting from this solicitation shall be subject to the termination provisions https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=40424 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=44318 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50474 https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Pages/default.aspx set forth in 200 KAR 5:312.

Section 43 Disclosure of Violation of Statutes Pursuant to KRS 45A.485, contractors are required to reveal final determinations of violation of certain statutes incurred within the last five (5) years and be in continuous compliance with those statutes during the contract. Where applicable, the vendor is required to complete and submit Report of Prior Violations of Tax and Employment Laws.

Section 44 Discrimination (Effective April 8, 2015) Discrimination (because of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability) is prohibited. This section applies only to contracts utilizing federal funds, in whole or in part. During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows:

1. The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or age. The contractor further agrees to comply with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Public Law 101-336, and applicable federal regulations relating thereto prohibiting discrimination against otherwise qualified disabled individuals under any program or activity. The contractor agrees to provide, upon request, needed reasonable accommodations. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following; employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensations; and selection for training, including apprenticeship.

The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices setting forth the provisions of this non-discrimination clause.

2. The contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability.

3. The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which he has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice advising the said labor union or workers' representative of the contractor's commitments under this section, and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as the administering agency may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions, including sanctions for noncompliance.

4. The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order No. 11246 of September 24, 1965 as amended, and of the rules, regulations and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

5. The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order No.

11246 of September 24, 1965, as amended, and by the rules, regulations and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records and accounts by the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations and orders.

6. In the event of the contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract or with any of the said rules, regulations or orders, this contract may be cancelled, terminated or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further government contracts or federally-assisted construction contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order No. 11246 of September 24, 1965, as amended, and such other sanctions may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in or as otherwise provided by law.

7. The contractor will include the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 202 of Executive Order 11246 in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations or orders of the Secretary of Labor, issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order No. 11246 of September 24, 1965, as amended, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as the administering agency may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance; provided, however, that in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction by the agency, the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.

Section 45

ALL PROVISIONS OF THIS SOLICITATION (RFB 758 2400000385) AND THE

PROVISIONS OF FAP-110-10-00 SHALL BE PART OF ANY RESULTING MASTER

AGREEMENT.

Section 46 Bidder, Offeror, or Contractor Mandatory Representations Compliance with

Commonwealth Law

The contractor represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.485, they and any subcontractor performing work under the contract will be in continuous compliance with the KRS chapters listed below and have revealed to the Commonwealth any violation determinations within the previous five (5) years:

KRS Chapter 136 (CORPORATION AND UTILITY TAXES) KRS Chapter 139 (SALES AND USE TAXES) https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=22431 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37644 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37663

KRS Chapter 141 (INCOME TAXES) KRS Chapter 337 (WAGES AND HOURS) KRS Chapter 338 (OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES) KRS Chapter 341 (UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION) KRS Chapter 342 (WORKERS' COMPENSATION)

Boycott Provisions If applicable, the contractor represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.607, they are not currently engaged in, and will not for the duration of the contract engage in, the boycott of a person or an entity based in or doing business with a jurisdiction with which Kentucky can enjoy open trade. Note: The term Boycott does not include actions taken for bona fide business or economic reasons, or actions specifically required by federal or state law.

If applicable, the contractor verifies that, pursuant to KRS 41.480, they do not engage in, and will not for the duration of the contract engage in, in energy company boycotts as defined by KRS 41.472.

Lobbying Prohibitions The contractor represents that they, and any subcontractor performing work under the contract, have not violated the agency restrictions contained in KRS 11A.236 during the previous ten (10) years, and pledges to abide by the restrictions set forth in such statute for the duration of the contract awarded.

The contractor further represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.328, they have not procured an original, subsequent, or similar contract while employing an executive agency lobbyist who was convicted of a crime related to the original, subsequent, or similar contract within five (5) years of the conviction of the lobbyist.

Section 47 Attachments indicated below may be downloaded by accessing the “Attachment” link found on the Solicitation Details View page where this RFP was downloaded. Once the Attachment link is accessed, select the file name you wish to download, and select the “Download Attachment” hyperlink. For assistance with downloading these attachments please contact the Commonwealth Buyer.

ATTACHMENT A – This RFB Document ATTACHMENT B – Affidavit(s) if applicable ATTACHMENT C – Site Visit Form ATTACHMENT D – BNGC Mowing Map https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37674 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38890 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38899 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38902 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38914 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=48539 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50541 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=52935