Engaging_Disengaged_Youth_in_Workforce_Development_Opportunities_(Addendum_#3_Revision).pdf

RFP- 24 - 310

ENGAGING DISENGAGED YOUTH IN WORKFORCE

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

City of St. Petersburg

P.O. Box 2842

St. Petersburg, FL 33731

RELEASE DATE: October 16, 2024

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS: November 4, 2024

RESPONSE DEADLINE: November 21, 2024, 3:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete

City of St. Petersburg

Engaging Disengaged Youth in Workforce Development Opportunities

I. Introduction

II. Solicitation Information

III. Evaluation Criteria

IV. Vendor Questionnaire

V. Scope of Work

VI. Cost Proposal

VII. General Terms

VIII. Insurance

Attachments:

A - Base Agreement

B - Proposal Submittal Requirements - Engaging Disengaged Youth

#RFP- 24 - 310

Title: Engaging Disengaged Youth in Workforce Development Opportunities

1. Introduction

1.1. Summary

The City of St. Petersburg is seeking an Social Science Research Consultant to develop strategies for effectively engaging disengaged and almost disengaged youth. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and impact of the numerous career readiness, workforce development programs, and apprenticeships available throughout the city, whether administered by The City, local colleges and universities, or businesses.

The City of St. Petersburg, Florida (The City) is committed to maximizing the reach and efficacy of these programs by targeting youth aged 15 to 18 and 19 to 24 who are at-risk of disengagement (those who are less likely to transition successfully into adulthood, which may include not being able to achieve academic success, find a job, or become financially independent) or youth who are already disengaged (those that are not in school and not employed). The consultant will be tasked with conducting thorough research to inform outreach strategies and tactics that successfully generate interest among these youth groups, ultimately guiding them towards apprenticeships and job opportunities that can lead to long-term employment and career growth.

1.2. Background

According to the State of the Region-Tampa Bay, 12.28% of youth in Pinellas County, which includes St. Petersburg, are identified as disconnected or disengaged, meaning they are neither in school nor working. Various factors contribute to youth disengagement, including household income, economic strain, parental educational attainment levels, foster care status, proximity to or participation in crime, and poor educational performance without adequate support.

Research indicates that in middle adolescence (ages 15-16), there is a significant and positive association between school disengagement and serious violent crime. This trend continues into late adolescence (ages 17-19), where school disengagement is linked to serious delinquency and problem substance use. Furthermore, during early adulthood (ages 21-23), school disengagement remains significantly associated with serious violent crime.

These findings highlight the urgent need for effective engagement strategies targeted at youth who are at risk of or currently disengaged. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving their educational and employment outcomes, thereby reducing the risk of involvement in crime, and enhancing overall community well-being.

1.3. Contact Information

Lawanda Barber Procurement Analyst Email: lawanda.barber@stpete.org Phone: (727) 893-7030

Department:

Education and Youth Opportunities mailto:lawanda.barber@stpete.org tel:(727)893-7030

1.4. Timeline

*Timeline is subject to change

Solicitation Published October 16, 2024

Pre-Proposal Meeting (Non-Mandatory) October 21, 2024, 3:00pm

Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/98590379007?pwd=J7x6XafyWb

6bag3QFhaV0T4diIAj4Q.1

Meeting ID: 985 9037 9007 Password: 9fA4aV

Deadline for Questions November 4, 2024, 3:00pm

Deadline for Submittals November 21, 2024, 3:00pm

Evaluation/Shortlisting December 2, 2024, 1:00pm

Municipal Service Center - One 4th Street North, 6th Floor (Conference Room 600), St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Anticipated Recommendation of Award to

City Council

January 16, 2025 https://zoom.us/j/98590379007?pwd=J7x6XafyWb6bag3QFhaV0T4diIAj4Q.1 https://zoom.us/j/98590379007?pwd=J7x6XafyWb6bag3QFhaV0T4diIAj4Q.1

2. Solicitation Information

2.1. Submission or Receipt of Proposal

Proposals will be received through the City’s online bidding system no later than 3:00 pm on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

2.2. Standard for Award

The City will award to one or more vendors whose proposal is determined in writing to be the most advantageous to the City, taking into consideration the price and the evaluation criteria set forth in this solicitation. All awards are contingent on the Vendor meeting the minimum qualifications outlined in this solicitation.

The City reserves the right, at any time, to evaluate more vendors for inclusion on the list of approved vendors. All Vendors must meet the minimum qualifications outlined in this solicitation.

2.3. Selection Process

A. Short-Listing. Where there are multiple responsive proposals to the solicitation, a short-listing of two or more Vendors may be made. Negotiations as outlined in City Code Section 2-193 (g) will begin with the selected Vendors on the short-list. If there is only one responsive proposal, negotiations may proceed with a single Vendor.

B. Negotiations. The City may conduct discussions (negotiations) with short-listed Vendors to clarify and understand proposals and to provide responses to post-proposal opening and modifications to the solicitation specifications that are in the best interest of the City and that do not significantly change the scope or purpose of the project for which the solicitation was issued

(“negotiation subjects”). During the negotiation process, short-listed Vendors will be accorded fair and equal treatment with respect to any opportunity for discussion and revision of proposals related to negotiation subjects for the purpose of preparing their best and final offer which may be requested and received by the City prior to the conclusion of the negotiation process. If modifications are made as a result of these discussions, they will be put in writing. Following discussions, the City may set a time and date for the best and final offers from those Offerors with whom discussions were held. Proposals may be reevaluated after receipt of the best and final offers.

C. Award without Discussion. The City may award the Agreement on the basis of initial proposals received, without discussions. Therefore, each initial proposal should contain the Vendor’s best terms in relation to all relevant evaluation criteria.

2.4. Submittal Requirements

Vendor must meet the minimum qualifications listed in the solicitation and provide the following documents to be considered responsive:

A. Completed Proposal Submittal Requirements attachment https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete/projects/115998

3. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based solely on the following evaluation criteria.

• A rating of 0 equates to no response,

• A rating of 1-2 equates to poor,

• A rating of 3-4 equates to below average,

• A rating of 5-6 equates to average,

• A rating of 7-8 equates to above average,

• A rating of 9-10 equates to excellent

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Qualification 0-10 Points 30 (30% of Total)

2. Capacity to Accomplish the Work 0-10 Points 20 (20% of Total)

3. Community Collaboration 0-10 Points 5 (5% of Total)

4. Project Approach 0-10 Points 28 (28% of Total)

5. Detailed Budget 0-10 Points 5 (5% of Total)

6. City of St. Petersburg Small Business

Enterprise (SBE) Pass / Fail 2

(2% of Total)

7. City of St. Petersburg Minority Business

Enterprise (MBE) Pass / Fail 2

(2% of Total)

8. City of St. Petersburg Women Business

Enterprise (WBE) Pass / Fail 2

(2% of Total)

9. Are any of the subconsultants a City of St.

Petersburg certified Small Business

Enterprise (SBE)?

Pass / Fail 2 (2% of Total)

10. Are any of the subconsultants a City of St.

Petersburg certified Minority Owned

Business Enterprise (MBE)?

Pass / Fail 2 (2% of Total)

11. Are any of the subconsultants a City of St.

Petersburg certified Woman Owned

Business Enterprise (WBE)?

Pass / Fail 2 (2% of Total)

4. Vendor Questionnaire

4.1. General Information

4.1.1. Is the Vendor registered with the Florida Department of State, Division of

Corporations (Sunbiz) in accordance with Florida Statute §607.1501?* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.2. Is the Vendor a City of St. Petersburg certified SBE? * ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.3. Is the Vendor a City of St. Petersburg certified MWBE? * ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.4. Address for Headquarters location.*

*Response required

4.1.5. Address of office providing service, if different than above.

4.1.6. Contact Information for Contact Person.*

This person must be capable of committing the company to an agreement with the City.

• Name

• Title

• Phone

• Email

*Response required

4.1.7. Description of nature of company’s business.*

*Response required

4.1.8. Year the Company was Founded.*

*Response required

4.1.9. Number of years company has operated under the current name.* *Response required

4.1.10. Number of years company has been in the present business.* *Response required

4.1.11. Has the Consultant, and all subconsultants (if applicable), have experience conducting social science research using the Institutional Review Board

("IRB") research process as described herein for a minimum of three (3) years.* Confirm yes or no. Details may be provided.

*Response required

4.1.12. Is the Consultant, and all subconsultants (if applicable), free from legal and regulatory matters that might prevent the Consultant, and its subconsultants, from fulfilling the terms and conditions of this agreement?* Confirm yes or no. Details may be provided.

*Response required

4.1.13. The Consultant, and its subconsultants (if applicable), understand the requirement that all employees working with children will obtain and maintain a Level II background check clearance and provide these results to the City project manager prior to performing the services.* *Response required

4.1.14. Company’s bank of record.*

*Response required

4.1.15. Describe any litigation that the vendor has been a party to in the last five years where it was alleged that the offeror breached a contract for similar services with a client/customer and describe any contracts for similar services that the vendor failed to complete for similar services. Describe the facts and status of any such litigation or contract. * Type N/A if not applicable.

*Response required

4.1.16. Identify any government entity that has debarred or otherwise prohibited the vendor from responding to its competitive solicitations within the last five years. Describe the circumstances surrounding such debarment or other prohibition. * Type N/A if not applicable.

*Response required

4.1.17. The vendor acknowledges that it has read, understands and will comply with

Florida Statute §448.095 pertaining to required use of the U.S. Department of

Homeland Security E-Verify system. Should the City terminate the contract with the vendor for violation of §448.095, vendor may not be awarded a contract with the City for at least one year.* ☐ Please confirm

4.1.18. The vendor acknowledges that its solicitation response is subject to Public

Records laws (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes).* ☐ Please confirm

*Response required

4.1.19. Will vendor allow other agencies to piggyback the contract if awarded?* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.20. The vendor hereby makes all certifications required by Florida Statute

§287.135 related to scrutinized companies.* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.21. Is vendor required to provide any disclosures to the City regarding a foreign country of concern pursuant to Florida Statutes §286.101 (3)(a)? * ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.22. If YES, please provide the disclosure(s) in accordance with the requirements of

Florida Statute §286.101 (3)(a).

4.1.23. The vendor certifies that it takes no exceptions to the terms and conditions of the solicitation.* Reference "Base Agreement" attachment and advise.

☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.24. If exceptions are taken, specify in space below.

4.1.25. Has the vendor identified any trade secrets or confidential information in its solicitation response?* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.26. If yes to the above question, please upload your redacted proposal here.

4.1.27. Please upload your cost proposal*

As required per the "Proposal Requirements" attachment.

4.1.28. Technical Proposal *

As required per the "Proposal Submittal Requirements" attachment.

5. Scope of Work

5.1. Scope

The City of St. Petersburg is seeking proposals from qualified vendors to conduct social science research aimed at generating research-informed recommendations for optimal ways to engage disengaged youth (those ages 15-24 that are not in school and not employed) in workforce development opportunities. The consultant is encouraged to collaborate with other organizations that provide complimentary support to fulfill the required services.

The selected consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Conduct a comprehensive literature review to identify best practices and successful strategies for engaging disengaged youth.

• Organize and facilitate focus groups, interviews, and surveys with disengaged youth to gather firsthand insights and perspectives.

• Collaborate with Pinellas County Schools to access relevant data and engage with students who are at risk of disengagement.

• Engage with local communities to understand the unique challenges and opportunities for youth engagement within different neighborhoods.

• Analyze the collected data to identify trends, barriers, and effective engagement strategies.

The outcomes of this research should include:

• Specific, actionable recommendations for engaging and retaining disengaged youth in workforce development programs.

• Strategies for community outreach and engagement, including the use of social media and other communication channels.

• Guidelines for creating supportive environments that encourage continuous engagement and participation in career readiness programs.

• Suggestions for policy changes or initiatives that could further support disengaged youth.

The consultant will work closely with City officials, community organizations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure the recommendations are practical, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the specific needs of the St. Petersburg community.

5.2. Contract Term

The initial term of the agreement is expected to be for one-year from the date of contract execution but may be extended for an additional one-year period by the City at the time a consultant is selected.

Additionally, the contract price will not increase as a result of any extension.

5.3. Budget

The budget for this project is $200,000.

5.4. Minimum Qualifications

A. At a minimum, the Consultant, and all subconsultants, must meet the following qualifications:

1. Have experience conducting social science research using the Institutional Review Board ("IRB") research process as described herein for a minimum of three (3) years.

a. The IRB is defined as "the institutional entity charged with providing ethical and regulatory oversight of research involving human subjects, typically at the site of the research study".

b. The IRB process must follow the same Federal Regulations about human subjects' protections provided in 45 CFR 46, Subpart A and 21 CFR Part 50

2. Have the facilities and resources to conduct interviews, surveys, and all other research related activities as specified in the scope of work.

3. Have the ability to obtain the minimum insurance requirements set forth in this Agreement.

4. Be free from legal and regulatory matters that might prevent the Vendor from fulfilling the terms and conditions of the agreement.

5. Ensure Level II background check clearances are obtained and maintained for all employees working with children (15-17) prior to performing any services

5.5. Vendor Responsibilities

The Consultant will conduct a comprehensive social science study to answer critical research questions related to youth disengagement and develop strategies for re-engagement. The study will involve in-person interviews, focus groups, and surveys of youth identified as disengaged, ensuring the inclusion of diverse perspectives across different populations. The research questions that will be addressed are as follows:

• How many disengaged youths are there in the city?

• What provoked the disengagement?

• What is the root cause issue that must be addressed to create a sustainable solution?

• What would you need to stay engaged?

• What do we need to fix in your life now so you can take advantage of the career readiness and workforce opportunities?

• How can we apply the aptitude assessments in the process of enhancing the youths' desire to re-engage and take advantage of career readiness and workforce opportunities?

At minimum, the Consultant will perform the following responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning Workshops: Conduct initial strategic planning workshops within the first 60 days of the contract execution to kick off the research project, establish guiding principles, shared goals, roles, and responsibilities.

2. Community and School Engagement: Work closely with Pinellas County Schools and local community organizations to identify and engage disengaged youth for participation in the study.

3. Data Collection

a. Conduct in-person interviews, focus groups, and surveys with disengaged youth to gather qualitative and quantitative data.

b. Ensure diversity in the sample population to capture a wide range of perspective and experiences.

c. Conduct research activities in multiple locations within St. Petersburg including in the South CRA of St. Petersburg.

4. Data Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify trends, underlying issues, and effective engagement strategies.

5. Develop Recommendations: Based on the research findings, provide specific, actionable recommendations for engaging and retaining disengaged youth through various forms of outreach, including in-person and social media channels.

6. Outreach Strategy: Develop a robust outreach strategy that includes:

a. Community outreach plans with relevant language

b. Social media engagement strategies with relevant language

c. Collaboration with local radio stations and other media outlets

7. Collaboration and Reporting

a. Meet with the City’s project manager regularly to establish a milestone timeline and track progress.

b. Develop and maintain a detailed project work plan.

c. Provide quarterly reports on marketing and outreach campaigns, coalition activities, and overall project progress.

d. Establish a data sharing plan to facilitate collaboration and coordination with relevant stakeholders.

8. Create a peer-to-peer education campaign to support ongoing engagement efforts.

Deliverables:

a. Establish a milestone timeline with the project manager.

b. Detailed reports on meetings and collaborations with Pinellas County Schools and other stakeholders.

c. Comprehensive analysis and findings from interviews, focus groups, and surveys.

d. Specific recommendations for engagement strategies.

e. Quarterly reports on project progress, including marketing and coalition activities.

f. Final report summarizing research findings and recommended actions.

The Consultant will work closely with City officials, community organizations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure the project’s success and relevance to the St.

Petersburg community.

The Consultant must notify the City Project Manager of all subconsultants used to perform the work.

5.6. Background Checks

A. Consultant employees, and all subconsultant employees, working with children must obtain and maintain an active Level II background check clearance prior to performing services.

B. Level II background check clearances for employees working with children will be provided to the City Project Manager prior to services being performed.

5.7. City's Responsibilities

At a minimum, City shall provide and meet the following responsibilities:

A. City shall provide a point of contact (City Project Manager) to administer the Agreement.

B. City Project Manager shall assist with planning, strategy, and objectives prior to performance of the Work.

C. City Project Manager shall promptly respond to issues and inquiries so as not to hinder the progress, completion, or compensation for the Work.

D. The City reserves the right to review and approve all subconsultants.

6. Cost Proposal

Line Item Description Quantity Unit of

Measure Unit Cost Total No Bid

1 Total Cost (from

Detailed Budget upload)

1 job

TOTAL

7. General Terms

7.1. Vendor Registration

Vendor must register online with the City of St. Petersburg via their online sourcing system at https://procurement.opengov.com/signup and subscribe to City's Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete for solicitation notifications. Prior to an award of an

Agreement resulting from this solicitation, Vendor shall be registered with the Florida Department of

State, Division of Corporations to do business within the State of Florida in accordance with Florida

Statute 607.1501.

7.2. Solicitation Review

Vendors are required to carefully review this solicitation for defects and questionable or objectionable material. Comments concerning defects and questionable or objectionable material must be made in writing to the Procurement Analyst of record for this solicitation and received by the City at least 10 days before the solicitation submission deadline. This will allow issuance of any necessary addendum. A protest based on omission or error, or on the content of the solicitation, will be disallowed if these faults have not been brought to the attention of the City, in writing, at least 10 days before the time set for submission deadline.

7.3. Solicitation Response Preparation

Vendors are expected to examine this solicitation and all related documents. Failure to do so is at the

Vendor’s risk. Each vendor shall furnish the information required by this solicitation. Vendor(s) shall retain a copy of all documents for future reference. All solicitation responses must be submitted with the

Vendor’s legal name and by an officer or employee having the authority to bind the Vendor by his or her signature.

The City will not pay any costs associated with the preparation, submittal, presentation, or evaluation of any solicitation response.

7.4. Questions

All questions must be submitted via City's online sourcing system's Question & Answer feature no later than 3:00 pm on Monday, November 4, 2024. Questions will be answered via City's online sourcing system no later than NO VALUE on NO VALUE. More complex questions may require a written addendum to the solicitation. Explanations or instructions will not materially alter this solicitation unless they are in writing. Oral explanations or instructions given before the award of an Agreement will not be binding. If necessary, a written addendum to this solicitation will be issued and posted on the City’s online sourcing system at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete/projects/115998 for download by Vendors.

7.5. Amendments

Any amendments issued for this solicitation will be posted as an addendum on the City’s online sourcing system at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete/projects/115998 and notifications will be released to vendors who are following the project by clicking "Follow". Vendors must submit their responses to the most current version of the solicitation as amended, if applicable.

https://procurement.opengov.com/signup https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stpete

7.6. Submission of Solicitation Responses

Solicitation responses will be received through the City’s online sourcing system. E-mail or in-person submittals will not be considered unless approved before the solicitation submission deadline by the

Procurement and Supply Management Director. Late proposals and modifications will not be considered;

however, solicitation responses may be modified online at any time prior to the submission deadline.

Failure to follow the instructions in this solicitation is cause for rejection of the submittal.

7.7. Mistakes in the Solicitation

Solicitation responses may be modified or withdrawn in the online application portal prior to the time and date set for the solicitation opening. Correction or withdrawal of solicitation responses after the solicitation opening because of an inadvertent non-judgmental mistake in the solicitation requires careful consideration to protect the integrity of the competitive solicitation process and to assure fairness. If the mistake is attributable to an error in judgment, the solicitation response may not be corrected. Solicitation response corrections or withdrawals by reason of non-judgmental mistakes are permissible but only to the extent they are not contrary to the interest of the City or the fair treatment of other vendors.

7.8. Information Designated a Trade Secret and/or Confidential and/or Proprietary

All solicitation responses (including all documentation and materials attached thereto or provided in connection with this solicitation) submitted to the City are subject to Florida’s public records laws (i.e., Chapter 119, Florida Statutes), which requires disclosure of public records, unless exempt, if a public records request is made. Solicitation responses (including all documentation and materials attached thereto or provided in connection with this solicitation (even if in a separate electronic file)) submitted to the City cannot be returned. DO NOT LIST YOUR ENTIRE SOLICITATION RESPONSE AS TRADE

SECRET AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL. The City will not consider solicitation responses if the entire response is labeled a Trade Secret and/or Confidential and/or Proprietary.

If Vendor believes that its solicitation response contains information that is a trade secret (as defined by

Florida law) and/or information that is confidential and/or proprietary and therefore exempt from disclosure, then such information must be submitted in a separate electronic file and comply with the following requirements. In addition to submitting the information in a separate or electronic file, Vendor must include a general description of the information designated as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary and provide reference to the Florida statute or other law which exempts such designated information from disclosure in the event a public records request.

The City does not warrant or guarantee that information designated by Vendor as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary is a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary and exempt from disclosure. The City offers no opinion as to whether the reference to the Florida statute or other law by

Vendor is/are correct and/or accurate. Please be aware that the designation of information as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary may be challenged in court by any person or entity. By designation of information as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary Vendor agrees to defend and indemnify the City, its employees, agents, and elected and appointed officials (“Indemnified Parties”) against any and all claims, demands, and actions (whether or not a lawsuit is commenced) arising out of or in connection with Vendor's designation of information as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary and to hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for any award to a plaintiff for damages, costs and attorneys’ fees, and for costs and attorney's fees (including those of the City Attorney’s office) incurred by the City by reason of any claim, demand, or action arising out of or related to the Vendor's designation of information as a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary.

Failure to comply with the requirements above shall be deemed as a waiver by Vendor to claim that any information in its solicitation response is a trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary, regardless of whether such information is labeled trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary. Vendor acknowledges, understands, and agrees that all information in Vendor's solicitation response (not including information submitted in a separate electronic file and designated trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary in accordance with the requirements in this section) will be disclosed, without any notice to Vendor, if a public records request is made for such information, and the City shall not be liable to Vendor for such disclosure.

Vendor acknowledges and understands that Vendor's proposal, including the information submitted in a separate electronic file and designated trade secret and/or confidential and/or proprietary in accordance with the requirements in this section, will be distributed to the evaluation committee members, City staff, and City consultants to allow Vendor's entire solicitation response, including the information submitted in a separate electronic file, to be evaluated and considered for award of the Agreement. The entire contents of the Vendor's solicitation response, including the information submitted in a separate electronic file, may be discussed at meetings that are open to the public, subject to the requirements set forth in

Chapter 286, Florida Statutes.

7.9. Bonds

Vendors will need to furnish all bonds as indicated in the solicitation, if applicable.

7.10. Cash Discounts

When the City is entitled to a cash discount, the period of computations will commence on the date of delivery, or receipt of a correctly completed invoice, whichever is later. If an adjustment in payment is necessary due to damage, the cash discount period shall commence on the date final approval for payment is authorized. If a discount is part of the Agreement, but the invoice does not reflect the existence of a cash discount, the City is entitled to a cash discount with the period commencing on the date it is determined by the City that a cash discount applies.

7.11. Award

The solicitation will be awarded based on the requirements outlined in the scope, the criteria or factors identified in the solicitation, and the standard for award for the solicitation. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any or all parts of the solicitation response, waive informalities, and request re-solicitations on the services or products outlined in the scope. The City reserves the right to award the

Agreement on a split-order, lump-sum, or individual item basis, or such combination as shall best serve the interest of the City unless otherwise specified.

Pursuant to Florida Statute sec. 287.05701, the City will not request documentation of a Vendor’s social, political, or ideological interests, consider such interests, or give preference to a vendor based on such interests.

7.12. Acceptance Period

Unless otherwise specified in this solicitation, the solicitation response may be held by the City for a period of ninety (90) days after the submission deadline and will continue in full effect and not be subject to withdrawal during that period until an Agreement has been executed with a Vendor. If no Agreement has been executed within the ninety-day period, any solicitation response may be withdrawn or nullified by either the City or the Vendor, or be deemed to be confirmed and extended in time for as long as permitted by the Vendor submitting each solicitation response.

7.13. Right to Reject

Vendors must comply with all the terms of the solicitation, all applicable provisions of the City of St.

Petersburg City Code, and all applicable federal and state laws. The City may reject any solicitation response that does not comply with all material and substantive terms, conditions, and performance requirements of the solicitation.

The City may waive minor informalities that (i) do not affect responsiveness; (ii) are merely matter of form or format; (iii) do not change the relative standing or otherwise prejudice other vendors; (iv) do not change the meaning or scope of the solicitation; (v) are trivial, negligible or immaterial in nature; (v) do not effect a material change in the work; or (vi) do not constitute a substantial exclusion or modification of a requirement or provision in the solicitation.

7.14. Vendor Complaints

All complaints or grievances should be first submitted in writing to the Procurement & Supply

Management Director, by email at Stephanie.Swinson@stpete.org or by mail to P. O. Box 2842, St.

Petersburg, FL 33731 who will promptly investigate the validity of the complaint and present the findings in writing to the person who submitted the complaint.

7.15. Protest

(a) All protests related to a solicitation or award must be first submitted in writing to the POD no later than seven (7) days preceding the date of the City Council meeting approving the contract, or no later than seven (7) calendar days following the selection of the successful bidder if the contract does not require City Council approval.

(b) The POD will consider the protest if it is timely filed and contains the following:

(1) Sufficient information to identify the solicitation or award that is the subject of the protest;

(2) The grounds that demonstrate how the procurement process is contrary to law or how the solicitation document is unnecessarily restrictive or legally flawed;

(3) Evidence or supporting documentation that supports the grounds on which the protest is based; and

(4) The relief sought.

(c) If the protest meets the requirements of subsection (b) of this section, the POD will investigate the validity of the protest and present the findings in writing to the person or entity that submitted the protest. Otherwise, the POD will promptly notify the person or entity that submitted the protest that the protest is untimely or that the protest failed to meet the requirements of subsection (b) of this section and give the reasons for the failure.

(d) If the person or entity is dissatisfied with the POD’s response, the person or entity may then make an appeal to the City

Administrator, who will hear the appeal. The City may not establish appellate jurisdiction of the courts; however, if allowed by the

Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure or other rule or judicial decision, the decision from the City Administrator is the final decision of the City and may be subject to judicial review in the manner provided by law.

7.16. Public Entity Crimes

A person or affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a public entity crime may not (i) submit a solicitation response on an Agreement to provide any goods or services to a public entity, (ii) submit a solicitation response on an Agreement with a public entity for the construction or repair of a public building or public work, (iii) submit a solicitation response for leases of real property to a public entity, (iv) be awarded or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under an Agreement with any public entity, or (v) transact business with any public entity in mailto:stephanie.swinson@stpete.org excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017 for Category Two for a period of 36 months from the date of being placed on the convicted vendor list.

7.17. Nondiscrimination

Vendors for the City of St. Petersburg are required to comply with all applicable laws regarding discrimination in employment, including Pinellas County Code Section 70-53 (a)(1) (prohibiting discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability) and all other applicable federal, state and local laws. Vendors are encouraged to provide workplaces free of discrimination in terms of conditions of employment, including benefits.

7.18. Prohibited Communication

Vendors and their employees, agents, contractors, and representatives are prohibited from lobbying City

Council, the Mayor, City staff, selection committee members, and City project consultants relative to this solicitation until the solicitation selection and award processes have been completed. Non-compliance with this provision may result in disqualification from consideration of the award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this provision shall not prohibit the Vendor from (i) providing public comment in accordance with applicable laws and City policies at public meetings where public comment is permitted, (ii) communicating with the assigned Procurement Analyst, (iii) making a presentation during a selection committee meeting if requested by the selection committee, or (iv) submitting a dispute or complaint in accordance with the requirements set forth in this solicitation.

7.19. Environmentally Preferable Purchasing

It is the policy of the City of St. Petersburg to purchase recycled and environmentally preferable goods.

Environmentally preferable goods are defined as “products or services that have a lesser or reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared with competing products or services that serve the same purpose.” This includes products that contain recycled content, reduced toxicity and pollution, conserve energy, conserve water, prevent waste, and promote sustainability and resiliency initiatives.

This policy does not require the City to specify environmentally preferable products or services when it can be demonstrated that they are not in the best interest of the City compared to products and services that are not as environmentally preferable. Best interests include but are not limited to, service life, life cycle cost, product effectiveness, or compatibility. This policy will be carried out consistent with the

City’s obligations and purpose, and with an overall intent to obtain competitive prices and to provide value to the taxpayer.

7.20. Health In All Policies

Pursuant to Executive Order EO-2018-04, it is the policy of the City to apply the consideration of health, health impacts, and the social determinants of health to the City’s decision-making, including policy development and implementation, budgeting, and the delivery of services and procurement of supplies and construction. Vendors are encouraged to propose services, supplies, and construction that promote health to the greatest extent practicable in their responses to City solicitations. Vendors are further encouraged to provide workplaces that promote the health and well-being of their employees.

7.21. American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Public Notice

In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the City of St. Petersburg will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. If Vendor requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to adequately respond to this solicitation. Vendor should contact ADA Coordinator Lendel Bright at (727)-893-7229 or email at lendel.bright@stpete.org as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours before the applicable deadline.

7.22. Background Checks

In the event the solicitation or Agreement requires criminal history checks, Vendor will be responsible for conducting a criminal history check for each employee or subcontractor for which a criminal history check is required.

7.23. Disqualification

The City reserves the right to disqualify Vendors before or after opening, upon evidence of collusion with intent to defraud or other illegal practices on the part of the Vendors.

7.24. Taxes

The City of St. Petersburg is exempt from any taxes imposed by the State and/or Federal Government.

Exemption certificates will be provided upon request.

7.25. Compliance with State and/or Federal Requirements

All Vendors entering into a contract with the City with permit(s) issued by a state or federal agency, shall comply with the requirements set forth in the permit(s).

7.26. E-Verify

Vendor shall comply with Florida Statute §448.095 pertaining to required use of the U.S. Department of

Homeland Security's E-Verify system, and that should the City terminate§ the contract with the Vendor for violation of §448.09(1), Vendor may not be awarded a contract with the City fort at least one year.

7.27. Exceptions to Terms and Conditions

If the Vendor takes exceptions to the terms and conditions of the solicitation and refuses to withdraw such exceptions, the City may deem the Vendor nonresponsive if the City determines that negotiating with the

Vendor to address such exceptions may affect the fair treatment of other vendors.

8. Insurance

8.1. Commercial General Liability

Commercial general liability insurance in an amount of at least One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence, Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) aggregate in occurrences form. This policy must include coverage for bodily injury, property damage, personal and advertising injury, products and completed operations, and contractual liability under this Agreement.

8.2. Commercial Automobile Liability

Commercial automobile liability insurance of $1,000,000 combined single limit covering all owned, hired and non-owned vehicles.

8.3. Worker's Compensation

Workers’ Compensation insurance as required by Florida law and Employers’ Liability Insurance in an amount of at least $100,000 each accident, $100,000 per employee, and $500,000 for all diseases.

8.4. E&O/Professional Liability

Errors & Omissions/Professional Liability insurance appropriate to Contractor’s profession with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence. If coverage is on a “Claims Made” basis, it must include a retroactive date of coverage beginning no later than the date this agreement is executed.

8.5. Abuse & Molestation

Abuse and Molestation coverage in an amount of at least One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per claim.

This shall include coverage for bodily injury, mental anguish, and emotional distress arising from the actual, alleged, or threatened abusive behavior, conduct, verbal or nonverbal communication, molestation, or exploitation, whether for sexual gratification, discrimination, intimidation, coercion, or for any other purpose.