CN-700000-21008.pdf

Attachment A ITB 20-010 and All Addenda ATC 21-008

INVITATION TO BID (ITB)

FOR

WASTEWATER AND

WATER TREATMENT CHEMICALS

FDC ITB-20-010

RELEASED ON

September 23, 2020

By the:

Florida Department of Corrections

Office of Financial Management Bureau of Procurement 501 S. Calhoun Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-2500

(850) 717-3700

Procurement Officer Cheryl Beasley purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com mailto:purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com

Table of Contents

TIMELINE

SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS

1.1 Statement of Purpose

1.2 Contract Term and Renewal

1.3 Conflicts and Order(s) of Precedence

1.4 Definitions

SECTION 2.0 SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Specifications

2.2 Estimated Quantities

2.3 Substitutions

2.4 Minimum Order

2.5 Damaged Commodities and Warranty

2.6 Financial Consequences

2.7 State and Federal Regulatory Compliance

2.8 Certification of Analysis

2.9 Testing of Chemicals

2.10 SDS Reports

2.11 Applicable Documents

SECTION 3.0 NON-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 Addition/Deletion of Items or Locations

3.2 Summary Reports

3.3 Delivery

3.4 Records and Documentation

3.5 Purchasing Card (PCard) Program

3.6 Vendor Ombudsman

3.7 Payment and Invoicing

SECTION 4.0 PROCUREMENT RULES AND INFORMATION

4.1 General Instructions to Respondents (PUR 1001)

4.2 Bidder Inquiries

4.3 Cost of Bid Preparation

4.4 Instructions for Bid Submittal

4.5 Price Page

4.6 Mandatory Documentation

4.7 Disclosure of Bid Submittal Contents

4.8 Bid Opening

4.9 Bid Evaluation

4.10 Florida Preference

4.11 Basis of Award

4.12 Disposal of Bids

4.13 Bid Rules for Withdrawal

4.14 Addenda

4.15 Verbal Instruction Procedure/Discussions

4.16 No Prior Involvement and Conflict of Interest

4.17 State Licensing Requirements

4.18 MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Registration

4.19 Confidential, Proprietary, or Trade Secret Material

4.20 E-Verify

4.21 Vendor Substitute W-9

4.22 Scrutinized Companies Certification

4.23 Identical Tie Bids

4.24 Rejection of Bids

4.25 Inspector General

4.26 Protest Procedures

4.27 Cooperation with the Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives

SECTION 5.0 SPECIAL CONDITIONS

5.1 General Contract Conditions (PUR 1000)

5.2 Modifications after Contract Execution

5.3 State Initiatives

5.3.1 Diversity in Contracting

5.3.2 Environmental Considerations

5.4 Subcontracts

5.5 Copyrights, Right to Data, Patents and Royalties

5.6 Independent Contractor Status

5.7 Assignment

5.8 Severability

5.9 Use of Funds for Lobbying Prohibited

5.10 Employment of Department Personnel

5.11 Legal Requirements

5.12 Insurance

5.13 Annual Appropriation

5.14 Tax Exemption

5.15 Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)

Attachment I – Price Page Attachment II – Bidder’s Contact Information and Certification Attachment III – Certification of Drug Free Workplace Program Attachment IV – Delivery Location Attachment V – Security Requirements

DGENCBY

Cross-Out

TIMELINE

FDC ITB-20-010

EVENT DATE/TIME LOCATION

Release of ITB September 23, 2020 Vendor Bid System http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs

Last day for written Inquiries to be received by the Department

October 1, 2020 By 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time

Submit to:

Florida Department of Corrections Cheryl Beasley, Procurement Officer Email: purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com

Anticipated Posting of Written Responses to

Written Inquiries October 30, 2020

Vendor Bid System:

http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs

Sealed Bids Due and Opened

November 13, 2020 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time

Submit to:

Florida Department of Corrections Cheryl Beasley, Procurement Officer 501 South Calhoun Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2500

Anticipated Posting of Recommended Award

December 18, 2020 Vendor Bid System:

http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs mailto:purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs

SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS

1.1 Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this Invitation to Bid (ITB) is to secure Responsive Bids, from Responsible Bidders, to provide wastewater and water treatment chemicals to various correctional institutions throughout the State of Florida, as specified by the Florida Department of Corrections (Department) in Attachment I. The Department is issuing this solicitation to establish a new Agency Term Contract(s)

(ATC).

1.2 Contract Term and Renewal

As a result of this ITB, the successful and Responsible Bidder for each chemical, per Region, will be awarded a five (5) year Contract, which may be renewed for up to five (5) renewal years, or portions thereof, in accordance with Section 287.057(13), Florida Statutes (F.S.), at the same prices, terms, and conditions. Purchases may be accomplished through the issuance of MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Purchase Orders (POs).

1.3 Conflicts and Order(s) of Precedence

All Bids are subject to the terms of the following sections of this ITB, which in case of conflict shall have the following order of precedence:

1) Addenda, in reverse order of issuance;

2) Invitation to Bid (ITB), including attachments;

3) General Contract Conditions (Form PUR 1000) (Section 5.1); then

4) General Instructions to Respondents (Form PUR 1001) (Section 4.1).

1.4 Definitions

The terms used in this ITB, unless the context otherwise clearly requires a different construction and interpretation, have the following meanings:

a. Agency Term Contract (ATC or Contract): A written master agreement between the

Department and awarded Bidder that is mandatory for use by the entire Department, results from this ITB, and off of which Purchase Orders (PO) shall be issued.

b. Bid: A Bidder’s response to this ITB, which the Bidder shall submit on approved forms.

c. Certificate of Analysis: A document issued by a regulatory or quality assurance entity verifying the adherence to product specifications and standards of production of certain products such as food products and drugs. The certificate usually includes the actual test results performed on the product batch.

d. Day: A calendar day, unless otherwise noted.

e. Department (FDC): The Florida Department of Corrections.

f. Mandatory Responsiveness Requirements: Terms, conditions, and requirements that must be met by the Bidder to be considered responsive to this solicitation. Failure to meet these responsiveness requirements will cause rejection of a Bid.

g. Material Deviation(s): A deviation is material if, in the Department’s sole discretion, the deficient response is not in substantial accord with the ITB’s requirements, provides a substantial competitive advantage to one Bidder over other Bidders, has a potentially significant effect on the quantity or quality of items bid, or on the cost to the Department.

h. Minor Irregularity: A variation from the ITB terms and conditions, not giving the Bidder a substantial competitive advantage or benefit not enjoyed by other Bidders, and not adversely impacting the interests of the Department.

i. PCard: The State of Florida’s purchasing card program, using the Visa platform.

j. Responsible Bidder: A Bidder who has the capability to fully perform all aspects of the resultant Contract requirements, and the integrity and reliability that will ensure good faith performance.

k. Responsive Bid: A Bid, submitted by a responsible Bidder, which conforms to all material aspects of the solicitation.

l. Specifications: The detailed conditions and requirements of the ITB, and resulting Contract, including technical specifications, and other descriptions of the work, as set forth in the ITB documents.

m. Subcontract: An agreement between the Bidder and any other person, or organization, wherein that person or organization agrees to perform any requirement(s) for the Bidder, specifically related to securing, or fulfilling, the Bidder’s obligations to the Department, under the terms of the Contract resulting from this ITB. The successful Bidder is not relieved of its obligations under the resulting Contract when it utilizes

n. Vendor or Bidder: A legally qualified corporation, partnership, or other entity submitting a Bid to the Department, pursuant to this ITB.

[REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

SECTION 2.0 SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Specifications

The awarded Bidder(s) shall provide wastewater and water treatment chemicals, as specified in Attachment I, Price Page, Regions I-IV. This Attachment has the specifications for the items or services to be provided under this ITB, and resulting Contract. All commodities or services must be Bid as specified. Shipping destinations include all sites listed in Attachment IV, Delivery Locations.

2.2 Estimated Quantities

Quantities listed are given only as a guideline for preparing a Bid and should not be construed as representing actual quantities to be purchased.

2.3 Substitutions

The Bidder will be required to provide only the product(s) awarded. Substituted items delivered or provided to the Department without prior approval by the Department’s Contract Manager, or designee, are prohibited, may be returned at the Bidder’s expense, and may lead to termination of the Contract.

In the event the product specified can no longer be provided, for reasons beyond the Bidder’s control (i.e. product discontinuance), the Bidder shall provide an alternate product request to the Department’s Contract Manager, or designee. The alternate product must meet (or exceed) all terms, conditions, and specifications applicable to the originally specified product. A product sample for review may be required by the Department prior to acceptance.

2.4 Minimum Order

The minimum order to be purchased of methanol, under the Contract shall be 800 gallons. There is no minimum order for other chemicals. Orders may be placed less than this minimum, but the awarded Bidder may assess shipping charges for those orders.

2.5 Damaged Commodities and Warranty

The Bidder shall be responsible for filing, processing, and collecting all damage claims. However, to assist the Bidder in the expeditious handling of damage claims, the Department’s ordering office will:

1) Record any evidence of visible damage on all copies of the delivery carrier’s Bill of Lading.

2) Report damage (visible or concealed) to the carrier and Bidder, confirming such reports, in writing, within 15 days of delivery, requesting that the carrier inspect the damaged merchandise.

3) Retain the item and its shipping container, including inner packing material, if applicable, until inspections are performed by the carrier and disposition given by the Bidder.

4) Provide the Bidder with a copy of the carrier’s Bill of Lading and Damage Inspection Report.

The Bidder shall guarantee the proper functionality of all commodities purchased against manufacturing or design defects. Such defects will be cured promptly by the Bidder after notification by the Department. The Department shall incur no costs related to the curing of defective commodities. If the Bidder completes installation for a commodity, the Bidder’s workmanship shall be guaranteed for a period of 60 days. During that period, the Bidder shall correct any product deficiencies related to installation or workmanship at no cost to the Department.

2.6 Financial Consequences

The Department desires to contract with a Bidder who clearly demonstrates its willingness to be held accountable for the achievement of successful Contract performance upon execution of the Contract.

The parties agree upon a reasonable amount of financial consequences, which are not intended to be a penalty, and are solely intended to incentivize performance under the Contract. Accordingly, unless otherwise stated in this ITB, financial consequences shall be assessed in the amount of $100 per calendar day for each day the Bidder fails to complete a service, or for each day the Bidder fails to deliver commodities, after the time allowed by the Contract or subsequent purchase order, subject to the force majeure provisions of the Contract. Allowing completion of work, after the time allowed, shall not act as a waiver of financial consequences by the Department. Failure to provide required reports may also result in the assessment of this financial consequence.

Nothing in this section shall be construed to make the Bidder liable for delays that are beyond their reasonable control. The Department’s Contract Manager, or designee, shall make the determination as to what the term “reasonable” will mean in the context of any delay.

Nothing in this section shall limit the Department’s right to pursue remedies for other types of damages.

2.7 State and Federal Regulatory Compliance

It is required that all containers are packed, labeled and transported in accordance with all applicable federal regulations. The Bidder is responsible for ensuring that state and federal regulatory compliance is maintained for any chemical and related container furnished under the Contract. Failure to maintain compliance, as specified in this paragraph or elsewhere in the ITB, may result in termination of the Contract.

2.8 Certification of Analysis

The Bidder shall provide the Department a Certificate of Analysis for each chemical, upon request, and at no additional charge. Testing chemicals shall be conducted in such a manner as to produce a complete detailed listing of components. It shall not be by simple testing of expected contaminants only, from which a level of purity is determined by subtraction. The Bidder shall provide proof of testing methodology to the Department for approval, if so requested.

2.9 Testing of Chemicals

The Department reserves the right to have the chemical shipments tested by an independent laboratory. Failure of a shipment to comply with the Bid specification will be sufficient reason for rejection of the shipment. Should a shipment be rejected, it will be returned to the Bidder, who shall pay all handling and shipping charges in both directions. Upon notice of rejection of a shipment, the Bidder shall furnish another shipment immediately, which shall comply with the prescribed chemical analysis. In the event the Bidder is unable to promptly furnish the chemical of acceptable quality, the Department will obtain the chemical elsewhere. Any additional cost incurred by the Department will be charged to the Bidder.

2.10 SDS Reports

The Vendor shall provide the following documentation upon request:

1) A copy of the most current SDS Report for each chemical bid;

2) The manufacturer’s National Sanitation Foundation certification for each chemical provided to be used for drinking water.

3) A Certificate of Analysis for each chemical.

2.11 Applicable Documents

The latest publications of the following shall apply to all services and commodities received:

1) OSHA., 29 CFR 1910 Subpart H – Hazardous Materials

2) OSHA., 29 CFR 1910 Subpart B – Adoption and Extension of Established Federal Standards

3) Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 21 CFR Parts 210 – Food & Drugs, and 211 – Current

Good Manufacturing Practice for Finished Pharmaceuticals

4) Department of Transportation (DOT), 49 CFR Chapters I and V

5) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards

SECTION 3.0 NON-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 Addition/Deletion of Items or Locations

The Department reserves the right to add or delete commodities/services, or locations serviced, within the general scope of this ITB in the Contract, when considered to be in its best interest. Pricing shall be comparable to amounts awarded as a result of this ITB.

3.2 Summary Reports

The Bidder shall provide the Department’s Contract Manager, or designee, a report of Contract sales on or before the last day of each quarter (March, June, September and December, unless otherwise specified by the Department’s Contract Manager, or designee). The report shall summarize, at a minimum: total number of units sold during the quarter, total dollar value of units sold during the quarter, total number of units sold by delivery location for the quarter, total number of units sold for the quarter, and total dollar value sold for the entire Contract term to date. The Department may, at its discretion, develop the format the Bidder must use for reporting. Any report format developed by the Department shall be incorporated into, and shall become a part of, the original Contract. A summary report shall also be required for time periods that include less than three full months of business (such as the beginning or end of the Contract term). Failure to provide this information within 30 calendar days following the end of each quarter may result in the assessment of financial consequences, as indicated in Section 2.6, or termination of the Contract.

3.3 Delivery

Product(s) shall be shipped as Free on Board (FOB) and arrive within the time agreed upon between the ordering institution and the Bidder after the order is placed, at a minimum, 30 calendar days of PO issuance. Deliveries must be made between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday, excluding State holidays, unless otherwise stated herein or on a subsequent Contract. The Bidder shall be solely responsible for the shipment until delivery at the designated facility, and adhere to the Department’s security requirements, as provided in Attachment V. Security Requirements.

3.4 Records and Documentation

To the extent that information is utilized in the performance of the Contract or generated as a result of it, and to the extent that information meets the definition of “public record,” as defined in Section 119.011(12), F.S., said information is recognized by the parties to be a public record and, absent a provision of law or administrative rule or regulation requiring otherwise, shall be made available for inspection and copying by any person upon request as provided in Chapter 119, F.S. The Bidder agrees to: (a) keep and maintain public records required by the Department in order to perform the service; (b) upon request from the Department’s custodian of public records, provide the Department with a copy of the requested records or allow the records to be inspected or copied within a reasonable time at a cost that does not exceed the cost provided in Chapter 119, F.S., or as otherwise provided by law; (c) ensure that public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements are not disclosed except as authorized by law for the duration of the Contract term, and following completion of the Contract if the Bidder does not transfer the records to the Department; and (d) upon completion of the Contract, transfer, at no cost, to the Department all public records in possession of the Bidder or keep and maintain public records required by the Department to perform the service. If the Bidder transfers all public records to the Department upon completion of the Contract, the Bidder shall destroy any duplicate public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements. If the Bidder keeps and maintains public records upon completion of the Contract, the Bidder shall meet all applicable requirements for retaining public records.

All records stored electronically must be provided to the Department, upon request from the Department’s custodian of public records, in a format that is compatible with the information technology systems of the Department. Unless a greater retention period is required by state or federal law, all documents pertaining to the program contemplated by this ITB shall be retained by the Bidder for a period of five (5) years after the termination of the Contract or longer as may be required by any renewal or extension of the Contract. Pursuant to Section 287.058(1)(c), F.S., the Department is allowed to unilaterally cancel the Contract for refusal by the Bidder to allow public access to all documents, papers, letters, or other material made or received by the Bidder in conjunction with the Contract, unless the records are exempt from Section 24(a) of Art. I of the State Constitution and Sections 119.07(1) and 119.071, F.S.

The Bidder further agrees to hold the Department harmless from any claim or damage including reasonable attorney’s fees and costs or from any fine or penalty imposed as a result of failure to comply with the public records law or an improper disclosure of confidential information and promises to defend the Department against the same at its expense.

3.5 Purchasing Card (PCard) Program

The State of Florida has implemented use of a PCard, using the Visa platform. Upon mutual agreement of both parties, the Bidder will receive payments via the PCard in the same manner as other Visa purchases. To find out more about the State’s purchasing card program visit:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/agency_purchasing/purchasing_card.

3.6 Vendor Ombudsman

A Vendor Ombudsman has been established within the Florida Department of Financial Services.

The duties of this office include acting as an advocate for Vendors who may be experiencing problems in obtaining timely payment(s) from a state agency. The Vendor Ombudsman may be contacted by calling the Florida Department of Financial Services’ at (850) 413-5516 or toll-free at 800-342-2762.

3.7 Payment and Invoicing

Pricing for the Contract will be at a fixed-rate. The Department will compensate the successful Bidder for the delivery of commodities and/or services, as specified in Attachment I, Price Page. All charges must be billed after commodities, goods or services are received in accordance with Section 215.422, F.S. The Bidder must include any and all supporting documentation, as well as its name, mailing address, tax identification (ID) number/FEIN, PO number, and items provided.

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/agency_purchasing/purchasing_card

SECTION 4.0 PROCUREMENT RULES AND INFORMATION

4.1 General Instructions to Respondents (PUR 1001)

The General Instructions to Respondents are outlined in form PUR 1001 and are incorporated in this

ITB by reference. The PUR 1001 is available as a downloadable document at http://dms.myflorida.com/content/download/2934/11780. Any terms and conditions set forth within this ITB document shall supersede any and all conflicting terms and conditions set forth within form

PUR 1001. There is no need to return this document with the Bid response.

4.2 Bidder Inquiries

Questions related to this ITB, must be received in writing, via email, by the Procurement Officer listed below, within the time indicated in the Timeline. Oral inquiries, or those submitted after the period specified in the Timeline, will not be acknowledged.

Responses to written questions will be posted on the Vendor Bid System (VBS) on or about the date referenced in the Timeline. The VBS is located at: http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs.

Cheryl Beasley, Procurement Officer Bureau of Procurement

Florida Department of Corrections 501 South Calhoun Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-2500 Telephone: (850) 717-3700 Email: Purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com

Between the release of the solicitation, and the end of the 72-hour period following posting of notice of intention to award (72-hour period excludes Saturdays, Sundays, and State holidays), Bidders responding to this solicitation, or persons acting on their behalf, may not contact any employee, or officer, of the executive, or legislative branches of government, concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the Procurement Officer as provided in this solicitation. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response, as per Section 287.057(23), F. S.

Any person requiring special accommodation in responding to this solicitation because of a disability should contact the Bureau of Procurement at (850) 717-3700, at least five (5) days prior to any pre-solicitation conference, solicitation opening or public meeting. For the hearing, site or speech impaired, please contact the Bureau of Procurement by using the Florida Relay Service, which can be reached at 1-800-955-8771 (TTY/TDD).

4.3 Cost of Bid Preparation

Neither the Department, nor the State of Florida, is liable for any costs incurred by a Bidder in response to this ITB.

4.4 Instructions for Bid Submittal

Each Bid response shall be prepared simply and economically, providing a straightforward, concise delineation of the Bidder’s capabilities to satisfy the requirements of this ITB. Elaborate bindings, colored displays, and promotional material are discouraged. Emphasis in each Bid must be on completeness and clarity of content. In order to expedite the review of Bids, it is essential that Bidders follow the format and instructions.

http://dms.myflorida.com/content/download/2934/11780 mailto:Purchasing@fdc.myflorida.com

1) Bids may be sent by U.S. Mail, Courier, Overnight, or hand delivered to the location indicated in the Timeline. Electronic submission of Bids will not be accepted for the ITB.

2) All Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope/package with the relevant ITB number and the date and time of the Bid opening clearly marked on the outside of the envelope/package.

3) It is the Bidder’s responsibility to assure its Bid submittal is delivered to the proper place and time as stipulated in the timeline. The Department’s clocks will stamp Bids received and provide the official time for Bid opening.

4) Late Bids will not be accepted.

5) Submit one (1) original Bid, and one (1) electronic copy in searchable PDF format on a CD/DVD or flash drive (not password protected). The electronic copy must contain the entire Bid, as submitted, including all supporting and signed documents. If the Bidder chooses to submit a redacted copy of their Bid, as outlined in Section 4.19, the Bidder should submit one (1) redacted hard copy and one (1) redacted electronic copy, in searchable PDF format (in addition to the non-redacted version), on a CD/DVD or flash drive (not password protected).

4.5 Price Page

The Bidder shall complete, sign, date, and return Attachment I, Price Page. By submitting a Bid(s) in response to this ITB, each Bidder warrants its agreement to the prices provided. Bids should be submitted with the most favorable pricing terms the Bidder can offer the State. The Bidder is not required to bid on all items within a Region, in order for their Bid to be considered responsive for that Region, nor is the Bidder required to bid on all Regions in order to be responsive. Shipping destinations include all sites listed in Attachment IV, Delivery Locations. Any modifications, qualifications, counter offers, deviations, or challenges will not be accepted, and may render a Bid non-responsive.

Bids must be firm prices and be inclusive of all packaging, handling, shipping and delivery charges, demurrage, environmental and fuel service fees, and any other relevant and related charges under the Contract.

If a submitted Attachment I, Price Page includes inconsistencies, inaccuracies, or is incomplete, it may be rejected by the Department. All calculations will be reviewed and verified. The Department may correct mathematical errors, however, in the event of any miscalculation, unit prices shall prevail.

4.6 Mandatory Documentation

All Bidders must complete and submit the following mandatory documentation with their Bid. Any Bid rejected for failure to meet Mandatory Responsiveness Requirements will not be reviewed further.

1) Price Page – Attachment I

2) Florida Preference Letter, as outlined in Section 4.10

3) Bidder’s Contact Information and Certification – Attachment II

4) Certification of a Drug Free Workplace Program form, if applicable – Attachment III

4.7 Disclosure of Bid Submittal Contents

All documentation produced as part of this solicitation shall become the exclusive property of the

Department and may not be removed by the Bidder or its agents or returned. The Department shall have the right to use any or all ideas, or adaptations of the ideas, presented in any Bid. Selection or rejection of a Bid shall not affect this right.

4.8 Bid Opening

Bids are due, and will be publicly opened, at the time, date, and location specified in the Timeline.

Bid responses received late (after bid opening date and time) will not be accepted, nor considered, and modification by the Bidder of submitted Bids will not be allowed, unless the Department has made a request for additional information. Department staff will not be held responsible for the inadvertent opening of a Bid response if it is not properly sealed, addressed, or identified. The name of all Bidders submitting Bids will be made available to interested parties, upon written request to the Procurement

Officer.

4.9 Bid Evaluation

Bids that do not meet the requirements specified in this ITB may be considered non-responsive. The Department reserves the right to accept, or reject, any and all Bids, or separable portions thereof, and to waive any Minor Irregularity, technicality, or omission(s), if the Department determines that doing so will serve its best interest(s). The Department may reject any Bid not submitted in the manner specified in this ITB. Material Deviations cannot be waived and shall be the basis for determining a Bid non-responsive.

4.10 Florida Preference

In accordance with Section 287.084, F.S., a Vendor whose principal place of business is located outside of the State of Florida, must accompany their Bid response documents with a written letter from an attorney-at-law, licensed to practice law in the State where their principal place of business is located, describing the preferences granted by that State (if any) to its own business entities in the award of public contracts. The written document must identify either the preference granted or contain a statement specifying that no preferences are granted.

When the lowest Responsive Bid is submitted by a Responsible Bidder whose principal place of business is located outside the state of Florida, a five percent (5%) price preference shall be awarded to Bidders whose principal place of business is within the State of Florida, unless the State where the out-of-state Bidder is located provides a different price preference for businesses having a principal place of business in that State. In that case, the same price preference shall be awarded to the lowest

Responsible Bidder whose principal place of business is located in the State of Florida responding to this competitive solicitation.

A Bidder may submit questions regarding this requirement during the prescribed question and answer period noted in the Timeline.

4.11 Basis of Award

An award shall be made to the Responsible Bidder with the lowest Total Price per chemical, per Region, as specified on Attachment I, Price Page. The Bidder is not required to Bid on all items within a Region in order for their Bid to be considered responsive. The Bidder is not required to bid on all Regions for their Bid to be considered responsive.

In the event the Bidder with the lowest Total Price per Region is found non-responsive, the

Department may proceed to the next Responsible Bidder with the lowest Total Price per Region and continue the award process.

This ITB may result in more than one Contract being awarded.

4.12 Disposal of Bids

All Bids become the property of the State of Florida and will be a matter of public record, subject to the provisions of Chapter 119, F.S.

4.13 Bid Rules for Withdrawal

A submitted Bid may be withdrawn by submitting a written request for its withdrawal to the

Department. The withdrawal request must be signed by an authorized representative of the Bidder and must be received within 72 hours after the Bid submission date indicated in the Timeline. Any submitted Bid shall remain valid for 180 days from the Bid’s opening date.

4.14 Addenda

If the Department deems it necessary to supplement, modify, or interpret any portion of the solicitation or exhibits, addenda and materials relative to this procurement, information will be posted on the

Florida Vendor Bid System (http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs).

Interested parties are responsible for monitoring this site for new, changing, or clarifying information relative to this ITB.

4.15 Verbal Instruction Procedure/Discussions

The Bidder shall not initiate, or execute, any negotiation, decision, or action arising from any verbal discussion with any State employee. Only written communications from the Department’s

Procurement Officer are considered duly authorized expressions on behalf of the State. Additionally, only written communications from a Bidder are recognized as duly authorized expressions on behalf of the Bidder. Any discussion by a Bidder with any employee, or representative of the Department, involving cost or price information, occurring prior to posting of the Notice of Agency Decision, may result in rejection of said Bidder’s Bid.

4.16 No Prior Involvement and Conflict of Interest

Section 287.057(17)(c), F.S., provides, “A person who receives a contract that has not been procured pursuant to Subsections (1)-(3) to perform a feasibility study of the potential implementation of a subsequent contract, who participates in the drafting of a solicitation or who develops a program for future implementation, is not eligible to contract with the agency for any other contracts dealing with that specific subject matter, and any firm in which such person has any interest is not eligible to receive such contract. However, this prohibition does not prevent a vendor who responds to a request for information from being eligible to contract with an agency.”

The Department considers participation in a solicitation to be any actions related to the decision, approval, disapproval, recommendation, preparation of any part of a purchase request, influencing the content of any specification or procurement standard, rendering of advice, investigation, auditing, or functioning in any other advisory capacity.

The Bidder shall not compensate, in any manner, directly or indirectly, any officer, agent or employee of the Department, for any act or service, which they may do, or perform, for, or on behalf of, any officer, agent, or employee of the Bidder. Officers, agents, or employees of the Department shall not have any interest, directly or indirectly, in any contract or purchase made, or authorized to be made, by anyone for, or on behalf of, the Department.

The Bidder shall have no interest, and shall not acquire any interest, that conflicts in any manner, or degree, with the performance of the services required under this ITB.

4.17 State Licensing Requirements

As applicable, all entities defined under Chapters 607, 617, or 620, F.S., seeking to do business with the Department shall be on file and in good standing with the Florida Department of State, or must provide certification of exemption from this requirement.

4.18 MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Registration

Each Bidder doing business with the State of Florida, as defined in Section 287.012. F.S., shall maintain an active registration in the MFMP Vendor Information Portal (VIP), unless exempted under

Rule 60A-1.031, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). A Bidder not currently registered in the MFMP

VIP system shall do so within five (5) days of award, unless otherwise exempt.

Registration may be completed at: http://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com. Those needing assistance may contact the MFMP Customer Service Desk at 1-866-352-3776 or email vendorhelp@myfloridamarketplace.com.

4.19 Confidential, Proprietary, or Trade Secret Material

The Department takes its public records responsibilities as provided under Chapter 119, F.S. and

Article I, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution, very seriously. If the Bidder considers any portion of the documents, data or records submitted in response to this solicitation to be confidential, trade secret or otherwise not subject to disclosure pursuant to Chapter 119, F.S., the Florida Constitution or other authority, the Bidder must also simultaneously provide the Department with a separate redacted copy of its response (both printed copy and a searchable PDF document on a CD/DVD or flash drive) and briefly describe, in writing, the grounds for claiming exemption from the public records law, including the specific statutory citation for such exemption. This redacted copy shall contain the

Department’s solicitation name, number, and the name of the Bidder on the cover, and shall be clearly titled “Redacted Copy.” The redacted copy shall be provided to the Department at the same time the

Bidder submits its response to the solicitation and must only exclude or redact those exact portions which are claimed confidential, proprietary, or trade secret. The Bidder shall be responsible for defending its determination that the redacted portions of its response are confidential, trade secret or otherwise not subject to disclosure. Further, the Bidder shall protect, defend, and indemnify the

Department for any and all claims arising from or relating to Bidder’s determination that the redacted portions of its response are confidential, proprietary, trade secret or otherwise not subject to disclosure. If the Bidder fails to submit a redacted copy with its response, the Department is authorized to produce the entire documents, data, or records submitted by the Bidder in answer to a public records request for these records. In no event shall the Department, or any of its employees, or agents, be liable for disclosing, or otherwise failing to protect, the confidentiality of information submitted in response to this solicitation.

4.20 E-Verify

Per Executive Order 11-116, “The provider agrees to utilize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system, https://www.e-verify.gov/employers, to verify the employment eligibility of all new employees hired during the contract term by the Provider. The Provider shall also include a requirement in subcontracts that the subcontractor shall utilize the E-Verify system to verify the employment eligibility of all new employees hired by the subcontractor during the contract term.” Bidders meeting the terms and conditions of the E-Verify System are deemed compliant with this provision.

http://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ http://dev-st-fdc1/sites/WMGD/Bureau-of-Procurement/Shared%20Documents/vendorhelp@myfloridamarketplace.com https://www.e-verify.gov/employers

As of January 1, 2021, every public employer, contractor, and subcontractor shall register with and use the E-Verify system to verify the work authorization status of all newly hired employees. A public employer, contractor, or subcontractor shall not enter into a contract unless each party to the contract registers with and uses the E-Verify system in accordance with Section 448.095, F.S.

4.21 Vendor Substitute W-9

The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) requires all Bidders that do business with the

State to electronically submit a Substitute W-9 Form to https://flvendor.myfloridacfo.com. Forms and answers to frequently asked questions are located on that website once a registration has been completed. DFS is ready to assist Bidders with additional questions and may be reached by contacting (850) 413-5519, or FLW9@myfloridacfo.com.

4.22 Scrutinized Companies Certification

The Bidder certifies they are not listed on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List, created pursuant to Section 215.4725, F.S., and they are not currently engaged in a boycott of Israel. If the Contract exceeds $1,000,000.00 in total, not including renewal years, the Bidder certifies that they are not listed on either 1) the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan List, or 2) the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in the Iran Petroleum Energy Sector List created under Sections 215.473, F.S., and 215.4725, F.S., and further certifies they are not engaged in business operations in Cuba or Syria, as stated in Section 287.135(2)(b)2, F.S. Pursuant to Sections 287.135(5), F.S., and 287.135(3), F.S., the Bidder agrees the Department may immediately terminate the Contract for cause if the Bidder is found to have submitted a false certification or if the Bidder is placed on the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan List, the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in the Iran Petroleum Energy Sector List, the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List, or is engaged in a boycott of Israel, or has engaged in business operations in Cuba or Syria during the term of the Contract. Any company that submits a bid or proposal for a Contract, or intends to enter into or renew a Contract with an agency or local governmental entity for commodities or services, of any amount, must certify that the company is not participating in a boycott of Israel.

4.23 Identical Tie Bids

During the solicitation evaluation process, if the Department receives identical pricing or scoring from multiple Bidders, the Department shall determine the order of award using the criteria set forth in

Sections 295.187, 287.082, 287.084 and 287.087 F.S.

4.24 Rejection of Bids

The Department reserves the right to reject any and all Bids received in response to this ITB.

4.25 Inspector General

The Bidder shall comply with Section 20.055(5), F.S., which states; it is the duty of every state officer, employee, agency, special district, board, commission, Vendor, and subcontractor to cooperate with the inspector general in any investigation, audit, inspection, review or hearing.

4.26 Protest Procedures

Pursuant to Section 120.57(3), F.S, a Notice of Protest or Formal Written Protest must be filed with the Department’s Agency Clerk. Filings may be made physically at 501 South Calhoun Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2500, by email to: CO-GCAgencyClerk@fdc.myflorida.com, or by facsimile to: (850) 922-4355. Protests must be made in compliance with Rules 28-110.003 and 28-https://flvendor.myfloridacfo.com/ mailto:FLW9@myfloridacfo.com http://dev-st-fdc1/sites/WMGD/Bureau-of-Procurement/Shared%20Documents/CO-GCAgencyClerk@fdc.myflorida.com

110.004, F.A.C. Filings received after regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., ET) will be filed the next business day. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3), Florida

Statutes, or failure to post the bond or other security required by law within the time allowed for filing a bond shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

4.27 Cooperation with the Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives

In accordance with Florida law, the Contractor agrees to disclose any requested information, relevant to the performance of this Contract, to members or staff of the Florida Senate or Florida House of Representatives, as required by the Florida Legislature. The Contractor is strictly prohibited from enforcing any nondisclosure clauses conflictive with this requirement.

SECTION 5.0 SPECIAL CONDITIONS

5.1 General Contract Conditions (PUR 1000)

The General Contract Conditions are outlined in form PUR 1000, and incorporated in this ITB by reference. The PUR 1000 is available as a downloadable document at http://dms.myflorida.com/content/download/2933/11777. Any terms and conditions set forth within this ITB document shall supersede any and all conflicting terms and conditions set forth within form PUR 1000. There is no need to return this document with a Bid response.

5.2 Modifications after Contract Execution

During the term of the Contract, the Department may unilaterally require changes (altering, adding to, or deducting from the specifications) provided such changes are within the general scope of this solicitation.

The Bidder may request an equitable adjustment in the price(s) or delivery date(s), if the change affects the cost or time of performance. Such equitable adjustments require the express written approval of the Department.

The Department shall provide written notice to the Bidder 30 days in advance of any Department-required changes to the technical specifications, and/or scope of service, which affect the Bidder’s ability to provide the service as specified herein. Any changes, other than purely administrative changes, will require a written change order or formal Contract amendment.

5.3 State Initiatives

5.3.1 Diversity in Contracting

The State of Florida is committed to supporting its diverse business industry and population through ensuring participation by minority-owned, women-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises in the economic life of the State. The State of Florida Mentor Protégé Program connects these business enterprises with private corporations for business development mentoring. We strongly encourage firms doing business with the State of Florida to consider this initiative. For more information on the Mentor Protégé Program, Bidders may contact the Department of Management Services’, Office of Supplier Diversity at

(850) 487-0915.

The State is dedicated to fostering the continued development and economic growth of minority-owned, women-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises.

Participation by a diverse group of Vendors doing business with the State is central to this effort. To this end, it is vital that minority-owned, women-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises participate in the State’s procurement process as both Bidders, and subcontractors, of this solicitation.

Information on Certified Minority Business Enterprises (CMBE), and Certified Service- Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (CSDVBE), is available from the Office of Supplier Diversity at:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd.

http://dms.myflorida.com/content/download/2933/11777 https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd

Documentation regarding Diversity in Contracting must be submitted to the Department’s Contract Administrator and should identify participation by diverse Bidders and suppliers as prime Bidders, subcontractors, vendors, resellers, distributors, or such other participation as the parties may agree. This documentation shall include the timely reporting of funds expended to certified, and other, minority-owned/service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises. Such reports must be submitted at least monthly, if applicable, and must include the period covered, the name, minority code and Federal Employer Identification Number of each minority-owned/service-disabled veteran-owned Bidder utilized during the period, the commodities and services provided by the each, and the amount paid to each under the terms of any Contract from this solicitation.

5.3.2 Environmental Considerations

The State supports and encourages initiatives to protect and preserve our environment. If applicable, the Bidder shall submit a plan to support the procurement of commodities and materials with recycled content, referencing the intent of Section 403.7065, F.S. The Bidder shall also provide a plan, if applicable, for reducing and/or handling of any hazardous waste generated by the Bidder’s company, referencing Rule 62-730.160, F.A.C. It is a requirement of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that a generator of hazardous waste materials exceeding certain thresholds must have a valid and current Hazardous Waste Generator Identification Number. This identification number shall be submitted as part of the Bidder’s explanation of its hazardous waste plan and shall explain, in detail, its handling and disposal of this waste.

5.4 Subcontracts

The Bidder may, with prior written consent of the Department, enter into written subcontracts for the delivery or performance of services, as indicated in this ITB. Anticipated subcontract agreements known at the time of Bid submission must be disclosed, and the amount of the subcontract must be identified in the Bid. If a subcontract has been identified at the time of Bid submission, a copy of the proposed subcontract must be submitted to the Department. No subcontract, which the Bidder enters into with respect to performance of any of its functions under the Contract, shall in any way relieve the Bidder of any responsibility for the performance of its duties. All subcontractors, regardless of function, who provide services on Department property, shall comply with the Department’s security requirements, including background checks, and all other Contract requirements, see Attachment V.

Security Requirements. All payments to subcontractors shall be made by the Bidder. The Department is only authorized to pay the awarded Bidder for any services or commodities provided under the Contract.

If a subcontractor is utilized by the Bidder, the Bidder shall pay the subcontractor within seven (7) business days after any payment is received from the Department, in accordance with Section 287.0585, F.S. It is understood, and agreed upon, that the Department shall not be held accountable to any subcontractor for any expenses or liabilities incurred under the subcontract, and that the Bidder shall be solely responsible to the subcontractor for all expenses and liabilities under the Contract. If the Bidder fails to pay the subcontractor within seven (7) business days, the Bidder shall pay a penalty to the subcontractor in the amount of one-half (½) of one percent (1%) of the amount due, per day, from the expiration of the period allowed herein for payment. Such penalty shall be in addition to actual payments owed and shall not exceed 15% of the outstanding balance due.

5.5 Copyrights, Right to Data, Patents and Royalties

Where the Contract activities produce original writing, sound recordings, pictorial reproductions, drawings, other graphic representation, and/or works of any similar nature, the Department has the right to use, duplicate and disclose such materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, for any purpose whatsoever, and to have others acting on behalf of the Department to do so also. If the materials so developed are subject to copyright, trademark, patent, legal title, then every right, interest, claim or demand of any kind, in and to any patent, trademark or copyright, or application for the same, will vest in the State of Florida, Department of State for the exclusive use and benefit of the State.

Pursuant to Section 286.021, F.S., no person, firm, or…