ESBD_452428_1757429761667_FINAL CLEAN FY2026-2027 RFA for Regional Solid Waste Grants FULL VERSION.pdf

RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

Request for Applications – FY 2026-2027

Procurement Department

8200 Perrin Beitel, Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78218

Voice (210) 362-5200 Fax (210) 225-5937

RFA Release Date: September 9, 2025 @ 10:00 AM

Question & Answer Virtual Meeting October 7, 2025 @ 1:00 PM

Application Response Deadline: October 21, 2025 @ 4:00 PM

Project Scoring Date: November 12, 2025 @ 8:30 AM

Notice of Award: November 17, 2025

Contract Award: January 5, 2026

RFA links: https://aacog.gov/procurement

NOTICE: Prospective proposers who have received this document from a source other than AACOG should immediately contact AACOG and provide their name, company, and email address in order that an addendum to the RFA or other communication can be delivered. Any prospective proposer who fails to provide the agency with this information assumes complete responsibility for complete submission requirements.

The Alamo Area Council of Governments

In Cooperation with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Announces Availability of Municipal Solid Waste Grant

Funds for Fiscal Years 2026 & 2027

Request for Applications https://aacog.gov/procurement

Page 2 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1.0 – SCOPE OF REQUEST 3

1.1 Purpose of Request for Applications (RFA)

1.2 Background Information

1.3 Scope of Work

1.4 Program Goals

1.5 Applicant Requirements

1.6 Eligible Expenses

1.7 Project Budget Allocation

1.8 Applicable Statutes and Regulations

1.9 Procurement Standard

1.10 General Standards

1.11 Notification of Private Industry Required

1.12 Important Reminders for Applicants

PART 2.0 – SUBMISSION INFORMATION 28

2.1 Response Deadline

2.2 Procurement Schedule

2.3 Technical Assistance

2.4 Availability of Request for Applications

2.5 Proprietary Information and the Public Information Act

PART 3.0 – GENERAL INFORMATION & ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS 31

3.1 Eligible Providers

3.2 Contract Information

3.3 Governing Provisions and Limitations

3.4 Administrative Requirements and Limitations

PART 4.0 – PROPOSAL REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS 35

4.1 Evaluation Process

4.2 Evaluation Criteria

4.3 Evaluation Outcomes

4.4 Procurement Dispute Resolution

PART 5.0 – APPLICATION RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS 39

5.1 Application Format and Number of Applications

5.2 Application Review Period

5.3 Page Limitation

5.4 Application Contents

5.5 Order of Application Contents

PART 6.0 – APPLICATION RESPONSE FORMS 47

6.1 Application Forms to Include Forms 1 through 7H (Attachment A)

6.2 Certification Sheet (Attachment B)

6.3 Acknowledgement Form (Attachment C)

6.4 Conflict of Interest Questionnaire (Attachment D)

6.5 Certification Regarding Debarment (Attachment E)

6.6 Non-Discrimination Certification (Attachment F)

6.7 Certification Regarding Lobbying (Attachment G)

6.8 Request to be Added to Bidder’s/Contractor’s List (Attachment H)

6.9 Applicant W-9 (Attachment J)

6.10 DBE/Minority/Small Business Certification Disclosures (Attachment K)

Page 3 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

PART 1.0 – SCOPE OF REQUEST

1.1 PURPOSE OF REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA)

This is a Request for Applications (RFA) for AACOG’s fiscal year (FY) 2026-2027 solid waste management grant program. The purpose of this program is to provide funding for eligible local and regional municipal solid waste management projects in support of the goals and objectives of the adopted Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (RSWMP) for the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) region. The projects must provide a direct measurable effect on reducing the amount of waste going into Texas landfills, by either diverting various materials from the municipal solid waste stream for beneficial use or by reducing waste generation at the source. Funding for this program is provided through a grant from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), under the authority of §361.014, Texas Health and Safety Code.

1.2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.2.1 The Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) is a voluntary association of municipal and county governments and special districts located in Bexar County and the surrounding twelve counties. Defined as a political subdivision of the State of Texas, the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) was established in 1967 under Chapter 391 of the Local Government Code as a voluntary association of local governments and organizations that serves its members through planning, information, and coordination activities. AACOG serves the Alamo Area/State Planning Region 18, which covers 13 counties and 12,582 square miles.

Comprising the area planning region are Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Medina, McMullen, and Wilson counties.

1.2.2 FUNDING SOURCES:

AACOG has received solid waste grant funds from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for solid waste implementation programs. For the FY 2026-2027 solid waste management program, $817,200 has been allocated to the region: $408,600 for FY 2026 and $408,600 for FY 2027. Of that, $180,000 per year is available for implementation projects.

TCEQ will only release half of the total funding for each fiscal year. The local government implementation funds are intended to provide grant funding for projects that provide a direct and measurable effect on reducing the amount of waste going into regional landfills by diverting various materials from the municipal solid waste stream for beneficial use, or by reducing waste generation at the source.

1.2.3 ELIGIBLE RECIPIENTS:

Only local and regional political subdivisions located within the State of Texas are eligible to receive funding from AACOG as a pass-through grant. Eligible entities are:

1.2.3.1 Cities;

1.2.3.2 Counties;

1.2.3.3 Public schools and school districts (excluding universities and other post-secondary educational institutions);\

1.2.3.4 General and special law districts created in accordance with state law, and with the authority and responsibility for water quality protection or municipal solid waste management, to include river authorities; and

1.2.3.5 Councils of Governments.

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1.2.4 INELIGIBLE RECIPIENTS:

1.2.4.1 Private entities, non-profit organizations, state, and federal governments are not directly eligible for grants. However, grant recipients may subcontract with such entities to provide specific grant-funded services.

1.2.4.2 Entities that are subject to payment of state municipal solid waste disposal fees or hazardous waste fees and whose payments are in arrears are not eligible to receive a grant. In addition, entities that are barred from participating in state contracts by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, under the provisions of §2155.077, Government Code, are not eligible to receive a grant.

1.3 SCOPE OF WORK

A grant application form will be made available through the SurveyMonkey platform at the following link:

https://aacog.smapply.us/prog/_fy2026_fy2027_regional_solid_waste_management_grants_program_requ est_for_application/. You must register to create a profile in SurveyMonkey to be able to use the platform and submit your application. A separate application must be submitted for each individual project proposed. In completing your application, read the instructions carefully, be concise, and provide a sufficient level of detail to facilitate informed consideration of your proposed project.

1.3.1 Eligible grant categories are:

1.3.1.1 Local Enforcement;

1.3.1.2 Litter and Illegal Dumping Cleanup and Community Collection Events;

1.3.1.3 Source Reduction and Recycling;

1.3.1.4 Local Solid Waste Management Plans;

1.3.1.5 Municipal Solid Waste Facilities Eligible for Funding;

1.3.1.6 Household Hazardous Waste Management;

1.3.1.7 Technical Studies; and

1.3.1.8 Educational and Training Projects.

1.3.2 Projects funded under this grant program must be consistent with the goals of the AACOG

Regional Solid Waste Management Plan, located on the AACOG website at https://www.aacog.gov/EnvironmentalConservation.

1.3.3 The following project categories are eligible for funding. Under each category heading is a brief description of the purpose of that category, examples of some of the types of expenses that may be appropriate under each of the project categories, as well as special requirements pertaining to that project category.

1.3.3.1 Local Enforcement

Funds may be used for projects that contribute to the prevention of illegal dumping of municipal solid waste, including liquid waste. Under this category, grant recipients may investigate illegal dumping problems; enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the illegal dumping of municipal solid waste, including liquid waste; establish a program to monitor the collection and transport of municipal liquid waste through administration of a manifesting system; and/or educate the public on illegal dumping laws and regulations. If submitting under this category, please contact the AACOG staff before submission of your application.

1.3.3.2 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.2.1 Equipment, such as vehicles, communications equipment, and surveillance equipment (NOTE: This does not include local code enforcement officer https://aacog.smapply.us/prog/_fy2026_fy2027_regional_solid_waste_management_grants_program_request_for_application/ https://aacog.smapply.us/prog/_fy2026_fy2027_regional_solid_waste_management_grants_program_request_for_application/ https://www.aacog.gov/EnvironmentalConservation

Page 5 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE firearms or ammunition)

1.3.3.2.2 Program administration expenses, such as salaries/fringe benefits, office supplies and equipment, travel, training, and vehicle maintenance

1.3.3.2.3 Protective gear and supplies (NOTE: This does not include self-contained breathing apparatus equipment)

1.3.3.2.4 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.3 Litter and Illegal Dumping Cleanup and Community Collection Events

Funds can be used for ongoing and periodic activities to clean up litter and illegal dumping of municipal solid waste, excluding cleanup of scrap tire dumping sites.

Funded activities may include waste removal; disposal or recycling of removed materials; fencing and barriers; and signage. Placement of trash collection receptacles in public areas with chronic littering problems may also be funded. To the extent feasible, reuse or recycling options should be considered for managing the materials cleaned up under this program. Funds may also be used for periodic community collection events, held not more frequently than four times per year (EXAMPLE: 4

CONSECUTIVE WEEKENDS NOT INCLUDING WEEKDAYS; OR ALTERNATE

WEEKENDS OVER THE COURSE OF THE YEAR, NOT INCLUDING

WEEKDAYS) to provide for collection of residential waste materials for which there is not a readily available collection alternative, such as large and bulky items that are not picked up under the regular collection system.

1.3.3.3.1 Projects funded to clean up litter or illegal dumping on private property must be conducted through a local government sponsor or AACOG. Funds may not be provided directly to a private landowner or other private responsible party for cleanup expenses. The local government sponsor or AACOG must either contract for and oversee the cleanup work or conduct the work with its own employees and equipment.

1.3.3.3.2 The costs for cleanup of hazardous waste and/or Class 1 nonhazardous industrial waste that may be found at a municipal solid waste site must be funded from other sources, unless a waiver from this restriction is granted by the TCEQ’s Waste Permits Division to deal with immediate threats to human health or the environment.

1.3.3.3.3 The cleanup of Class 2 and 3 nonhazardous industrial wastes that may be found at a municipal solid waste site may be funded in conjunction with the cleanup of the municipal solid waste found at a site. All notification, assessment, and cleanup requirements pertaining to the release of wastes or other chemicals of concern, as required under federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including 30 TAC Chapter 330, TCEQ’s MSW Rules, and 30 TAC Chapter 350, TCEQ’s Risk Reduction Rules, must be complied with as part of any activities funded under this Agreement.

1.3.3.3.4 All materials cleaned up using funds provided under this Agreement must be properly disposed of or otherwise properly managed in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. To the extent feasible, it is recommended that as much material as possible be diverted from area landfills and targeted for reuse or recycling. For projects to clean up large amounts of materials, AACOG may withhold at least ten (10%) percent of the reimbursements under a sub-grant or subcontract, until documentation is provided that the cleanup work has been completed and the materials properly managed.

1.3.3.3.5 Examples of eligible expenses include:

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1.3.3.3.5.1 Equipment, such as trailer and trucks

1.3.3.3.5.2 Program administration expenses, such as salaries/fringe benefits, office supplies and equipment, travel, training, and vehicle maintenance

1.3.3.3.5.3 Subcontract expenses

1.3.3.3.5.4 Protective gear and supplies

1.3.3.3.5.5 Fencing, barriers, and signage

1.3.3.3.5.6 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.3.5.7 Promotional items for volunteers (e.g., t-shirts, caps, etc.)

1.3.3.3.5.8 Printing, advertising expenses

1.3.3.4 Source Reduction and Recycling

Funds can be used for projects which provide a direct and measurable effect on reducing the amount of municipal solid waste going into landfills, by diverting various materials from the municipal solid waste stream for reuse or recycling, or by reducing waste generation at the source. Funded activities may include: diversion from the waste stream and/or collection, processing for transport, and transportation of materials for reuse and/or recycling; implementation of efficiency improvements in order to increase source reduction and recycling, to include full-cost accounting systems and cost-based rate structures, establishment of a solid waste services enterprise fund, and mechanisms to track and assess the level of recycling activity in the community on a regular basis;

and educational and promotional activities to increase source reduction and recycling.

1.3.3.4.1 Any program or project funded under this Agreement with the intent of demonstrating the use of products made from recycled and/or reused materials shall have as its primary purpose the education and training of residents, governmental officials, private entities, and others to encourage a market for using these materials.

1.3.3.4.2 Any revenues realized from recycling efforts funded through this program by a sub-grant recipient must be placed back into the respective solid waste management program and may not be placed into a funded entity’s general revenue fund. Any monies realized must be used to promote sustainability of the funded program.

1.3.3.4.3 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.4.3.1 Facility design and construction

1.3.3.4.3.2 Equipment, such as chippers, balers, crushers (non-trash), recycling and composting containers, trailers, forklifts, and trucks

1.3.3.4.3.3 Program administration expenses, such as salaries/fringe benefits, office supplies and equipment, travel, training, and equipment maintenance

1.3.3.4.3.4 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.4.3.5 Printing and advertisement expenses

1.3.3.5 Local Solid Waste Management Plans

Funds may be used for projects to develop local solid waste management plans. In addition, in accordance with Texas Health & Safety Code, Chapter 363, and Title 30 Texas Administrative Code (30 TAC), Chapter 330 TCEQ Rules, funds can be used for the TCEQ adoption of a local solid waste management plan. Funds may be used to amend an existing local solid waste management plan that has been adopted by the TCEQ. Local Solid Waste Management Plans must be consistent with the goals and

Page 7 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE objectives of the RSWMP. All local solid waste management plans funded under this Agreement must be prepared in accordance with the Content and Format Guidelines provided by the TCEQ.

1.3.3.5.1 If submitting under this category, please contact the AACOG staff before submission of your application. AACOG shall ensure that at least one year is available for the completion and adoption of the local plan.

1.3.3.5.2 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.5.2.1 Consultant services

1.3.3.5.2.2 Printing and advertising expenses

1.3.3.5.2.3 Program administrative expenses, such as salaries/fringe benefits, office supplies, and travel

1.3.3.6 Municipal Solid Waste Facilities Eligible for Funding The design and construction of the facilities identified below may be funded. Other registered or permitted facilities may receive funding upon prior authorization from TCEQ on a case-by-case basis. The cost associated with operating these types of facilities will not be funded. However, eligible facilities which do not charge customers for services rendered qualify to pursue implementation project funding under this agreement to cover facility upgrades and periodic maintenance costs associated with the free services provided. Projects funded under this project category shall include consideration of an integrated approach to solid waste management, to include providing recycling services at the site, if appropriate to the management system in place. Any revenues realized by entities funded through this program should be used in support of the entity’s solid waste program and may not be redirected to an entity’s general revenue fund. The following municipal solid waste facilities qualify to pursue funding:

1.3.3.6.1 Notification tier municipal solid waste transfer stations that qualify under

30 TAC 330.11(e).

1.3.3.6.2 Registered municipal solid waste transfer stations that qualify under 30

TAC 330.9(b)(1) through (3), or (f).

1.3.3.6.3 Exempt local government recycling facilities as provided for under 30

TAC 328.4(a)(1).

1.3.3.6.4 Notification tier composting facilities which qualify under 30 TAC 332.21

– 332.23.

1.3.3.6.5 Liquid waste transfer stations which qualify for registration in 30 TAC

330.9(g) and (l).

1.3.3.6.6 Registration tier used oil collection facilities which qualify under 30 TAC

324.7(1) or (3).

1.3.3.6.7 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.6.7.1 Facility design and construction

1.3.3.6.7.2 Equipment, such as dumpsters or roll-off containers, trailers, bailers, compactors, crushers (non-trash), recycling scales, and recycling containers

1.3.3.6.7.3 Protective gear

1.3.3.6.7.4 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.6.7.5 Printing and advertisement expenses

1.3.3.7 Household Hazardous Waste Management

Funds can be used for projects that provide a means for the collection, recycling or reuse, and/or proper disposal of household hazardous waste (HHW), including

Page 8 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE household chemicals, used oil and oil filters, antifreeze, lead-acid batteries, household electronic waste, and other materials. Funded activities may include collection events;

consolidation and transportation costs associated with collection activities; recycling or reuse of materials; proper disposal of materials; permanent collection facilities;

education and public awareness programs.

1.3.3.7.1 All HHW events must meet the requirements of 30 TAC 335, Subchapter

N, and must be coordinated through the TCEQ/External Relations Division. Additionally, the TCEQ Used Oil Program regulates the handling – including transportation – of used oil and oil filters. HHW collections should be aware of registration requirements when selecting vendors or running collection programs themselves.

1.3.3.7.2 All HHW collection event activities must be conducted under an operational plan which meets the requirements of 30 TAC 335.405(a), to be maintained onsite, which addresses collection, ingress and egress, storage, training, transportation, recycling, and disposal.

1.3.3.7.3 Designated HHW “operator” must submit to the TCEQ HHW Program a

45 Day Notice which meets the requirements of 30 TAC 335.403(b). The operator must also report to the HHW program by April 1st of the following year on the amount of material received under the collection.

This notice must be submitted in one of the following formats through one of the following avenues:

1.3.3.7.3.1 1.3.3.7.3.1 Mailed to:

TCEQ/External Relations Division (MC 118) HHW Program P.O. Box 13087 Austin TX 78711-3087

1.3.3.7.3.2 E-mailed to: Recycle@tceq.texas.gov

1.3.3.7.3.3 Faxed to: (512) 239-1065, Attn. HHW Program

1.3.3.7.4 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.7.4.1 Design and construction of permanent collection facilities

1.3.3.7.4.2 Equipment for permanent collection facilities, such as recycling containers, trailers, forklifts, and crushers

1.3.3.7.4.3 Protective gear

1.3.3.7.4.4 Contractual services for special collection events

1.3.3.7.4.5 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.7.4.6 Printing and advertising expenses

1.3.3.7.4.7 Promotional items for volunteers (e.g., T-shirts, caps, etc.)

1.3.3.7.4.8 School chemical clean-out campaign (SC3) events and programs

1.3.3.8 Technical Studies

Funds can be used for projects that include the collection of pertinent data, analysis of issues and needs, evaluation of alternative solutions, public input, and recommended actions to assist in making solid waste management decisions at the local level. Projects mailto:Recycle@tceq.texas.gov

Page 9 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE can also include research and investigations to determine the location, boundaries, and contents of closed municipal solid waste landfills and sites, and to assess possible risks to human health or the environment associated with those landfills and sites. All technical studies funded under this Contract must be consistent with the AACOG RSWMP and prepared in accordance with Guidelines provided by the TCEQ.

1.3.3.8.1 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.8.1.1 Consultant services

1.3.3.8.1.2 Printing and advertising expenses

1.3.3.8.1.3 Program administration expenses, such as salaries/fringe

1.3.3.9 Educational and Training Projects

Educational components are encouraged under the other categories in order to better ensure public participation in projects; those educational components should be funded as part of those projects and not separately under this category. Funds can also be used for “stand-alone” educational projects dealing with a variety of solid waste management topics. Projects can include funding for information-exchange activities, subject to the other limitations on travel expenses.

1.3.3.9.1 Educational and training programs and projects funded under this

Agreement must be primarily related to the management of municipal solid waste, and funds applied to a broader education program may only be used for those portions of the program pertaining to municipal solid waste.

1.3.3.9.2 Examples of eligible expenses include:

1.3.3.9.2.1 Education and outreach materials

1.3.3.9.2.2 Printing and advertising expenses

1.3.3.9.2.3 Contractual services

1.3.3.9.2.4 Program administrative expenses, such as salaries/fringe

1.3.4 In addition to the standards set forth in applicable law and regulations, the funding limitations outlined below apply to category-specific uses of the FY 2026-2027 solid waste grant funds.

1.3.4.1 Local Enforcement

Funds may not be provided to any law enforcement agency regulated by Texas Occupations Code, Title 10, Chapter 1701, unless: (a) the law enforcement agency is in compliance with all rules on Law Enforcement Standards and Education; or (b) the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education certifies that the requesting agency is in the process of achieving compliance with such rules.

1.3.4.1.1 When funding is to be provided for salaries of local enforcement officers, the grant recipient must certify that at least one of the officers has attended or will attend within the term of the grant agreement the TCEQ’s Criminal Environmental Law Enforcement Training or equivalent training.

1.3.4.1.2 Local enforcement vehicles and related enforcement equipment purchased entirely with funds provided under this agreement may only be used for activities to enforce laws and regulations pertaining to littering and illegal

Page 10 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE dumping and may not, to the extent practicable, be used for other code enforcement or law enforcement activities. Vehicles and equipment that are only partially funded must be dedicated for use in local enforcement activities for a percentage of time equal to the proportion of the purchase expense funded.

1.3.4.1.3 Entities receiving funds for a local enforcement officer, enforcement vehicles, and/or related equipment for use by an enforcement officer, must investigate major illegal dumping problems on both public and private property, in addition to investigating general litter problems on public property.

1.3.4.1.4 Entities receiving funds to conduct a local enforcement program must cooperate with TCEQ’s regional investigative staff in identifying and investigating illegal dumping problems. Lack of cooperation with the TCEQ staff may constitute a reason to withhold future funding to that entity for local enforcement activities.

1.3.4.1.5 Funds may not be used for investigation and enforcement activities related to the illegal dumping of industrial and/or hazardous waste. Instances where industrial or hazardous waste is discovered at a site do not preclude the investigation of that site, so long as the intent and focus of the investigation and enforcement activities are on the illegal dumping of municipal solid waste.

1.3.4.1.6 Funds may not be used for the purchase of weapons, ammunition, and/or

HazMat gear.

1.3.4.2 Litter and Illegal Dumping Cleanup and Community Collection Events Cleanup events may be coordinated with Keep Texas Beautiful.

Projects funded to clean up litter or illegal dumping on private property must be conducted through a local government sponsor or AACOG. Funds may not be provided directly to a private landowner or other private responsible party for cleanup expenses.

The local government sponsor or AACOG must either contract for and oversee the cleanup work or conduct the work with its own employees and equipment.

1.3.4.2.1 The costs for cleanup of hazardous waste that may be found at a municipal solid waste site must be funded from other sources, unless a waiver from this restriction is granted by the TCEQ to deal with immediate threats to human health or the environment.

1.3.4.2.2 The costs for cleanup of Class 1 non-hazardous industrial waste that may be found at a municipal solid waste site must be funded from other sources, unless a waiver from this restriction is granted by the TCEQ to deal with immediate threats to human health or the environment. The cleanup of Class 2 and 3 non-hazardous industrial waste that may be found at a municipal solid waste site may be funded in conjunction with the cleanup of the municipal solid waste found at a site.

1.3.4.2.3 All notification, assessment, and clean-up requirements pertaining to the release of wastes or other chemicals of concern, as required under federal, Page 11 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE state, and local laws and regulations, including 30 TAC Chapter 330, TCEQ’s MSW Regulations, and 30 TAC Chapter 350, TCEQ’s Risk Reduction Regulations, must be complied with as part of any activities funded under this agreement.

1.3.4.2.4 All materials cleaned up using funds provided under this agreement must be properly disposed of or otherwise properly managed in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. To the extent feasible, it is recommended that materials removed from a site be reused or recycled.

For projects to clean up large amounts of materials, AACOG will hold at least ten percent of the reimbursement until documentation is provided that the cleanup work has been completed and the materials properly managed.

1.3.4.2.5 Periodic community collection events, to provide for collection and proper disposal of non-recyclable residential waste materials for which there is not a readily available collection alternative, may be funded. This type of project may not include regular solid waste collection activities, such as weekly waste collection. Funded collection events may be held no more frequently than four times per year and must only be intended to provide residents an opportunity to dispose of hard-to-collect materials, such as large and bulky items that are not picked up under the regular collection system and might otherwise be illegally dumped by residents. To the extent practicable, community collection events should make every effort to divert waste collected from area landfills, e.g., contain a recycling component.

1.3.4.3 Source Reduction and Recycling

Any program or project funded under this agreement with the intent of demonstrating the use of products made from recycled and/or reused materials shall have as its primary purpose the education and training of residents, governmental officials, private entities, and others to encourage a market for using these materials.

1.3.4.4 Local Solid Waste Management Plans

All local solid waste management plans funded under this Agreement must be consistent with AACOG’s regional solid waste management plan and prepared in accordance with 30 TAC Subchapter O, Chapter 330, TCEQ Regulations, and the Content and Format Guidelines provided by the TCEQ.

1.3.4.4.1 In selecting a local solid waste management plan as an implementation project for funding, AACOG shall ensure at least one year is available for the completion and adoption of the local plan. The plan and all expenses must be completed by June 15, 2027.

1.3.4.5 Municipal Solid Waste Facilities Eligible for Funding

The design and construction of citizens’ collection stations, as those facilities are defined under 30 TAC Chapter 330, TCEQ Regulations, may be funded. The costs associated with operating these types of facilities will not be funded.

1.3.4.5.1 The initial design and construction of small municipal solid waste and liquid waste transfer stations that qualify for registration under 30 TAC 330, MSW Rules, may be funded. Other permitted or registered transfer

Page 12 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE stations may not be funded. A municipal solid waste transfer facility may be eligible for a registration if it serves a municipality with a population of less than 50,000, or a county with a population of less than 85,000, or is used in the transfer of 125 tons or less of municipal solid waste per day.

A liquid waste transfer station may qualify for a registration if it will receive less than 32,000 gallons per day. The costs associated with operating these types of facilities will not be funded.

1.3.4.6 Household Hazardous Waste Management

All household hazardous waste collection, recycling, and/or disposal activities must be coordinated with AACOG and TCEQ’s HHW program staff (External Relations Division), and all applicable laws, regulations, guidelines, and reporting requirements must be followed.

1.3.4.7 Technical Studies

All technical studies funded under this agreement must be consistent with the AACOG’s Regional Solid Waste Management Plan and prepared in accordance with Administrative Procedures provided by the TCEQ.

1.3.4.8 Educational and Training Projects

Educational and training programs and projects funded under this agreement must be primarily related to the management of municipal solid waste, and funds applied to a broader education program may only be used for those portions of the program pertaining to municipal solid waste.

1.3.4.9 Other Types of Projects

If the TCEQ authorizes AACOG to fund additional types of projects, the authorization incorporated into the grant agreement may include additional standards and restrictions that will apply to use of funds for that project or type of project.

1.4 PROGRAM GOALS

The major goals of the 2022 AACOG RSWMP are:

Goal 1

Maximize beneficial resource use

Goal 2

Responsibly manage problematic waste

Goal 3

Maximize proper disposal

Page 13 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

Goal 4

Lead regional planning

Goal 1. Maximize Beneficial Resource Use. This goal includes ideas like recycling, composting, reusing, and waste reduction. For this goal, there are three objectives.

OBJECTIVES

1.A. Improve access to diversion opportunities

1.B. Improve community participation

1.C. Provide education

Goal 2. Responsibly Manage Problematic Wastes. There are three objectives for this goal.

OBJECTIVES

2.A. Improve access to problematic waste collection (includes HHW, tires, electronics)

2.B. Provide Education

2.C. Collect data

Goal 3. Maximize Proper Disposal. It is primarily related to illegal dumping and has six objectives.

OBJECTIVES

3.A. Improve access to solid waste drop-off opportunities

3.B. Improve community participation

3.C. Provide education

3.D. Collect data

3.E. Increase illegal dumping prevention efforts

3.F. Increase illegal dumping enforcement

Goal 4. Lead Regional Planning. There are seven objectives.

OBJECTIVES

4.A. Collaborate

Page 14 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

4.B. Optimize funding decisions

4.C. Oversee facility planning

4.D. Review and update solid waste management plans

4.E. Make continuous improvements

4.F. Collect data

4.G. Plan for disaster waste

1.5 APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS

1.5.1 The Applicant will be required to complete an AACOG Vendor Packet. (See attachments)

1.5.2 The Federal Privacy Act of 1974 and related state law and regulation regulate the proper disclosure of individually identifiable information and/or records. The Applicant must take special precautions to protect confidential information from loss, authorized use, access, disclosure, modification and destruction.

1.5.3 Performance of this RFA and all work or obligations covered by and arising out of this RFA shall be at the risk of the Applicant exclusively. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall, with respect to all work or obligations covered by or arising out of the this RFA, or the performance thereof, indemnify, hold harmless and defend AACOG and each of its officers, partners, joint venture partners, representatives and/or employees from and against any and all allegations, losses, claims, actions, demands, damages, liabilities, or expenses (including costs, expenses and attorney’s fees), arising directly or indirectly from this RFA, or the performance thereof, including in the event an on-the-job illness or injury occurs.

1.5.4 CFR 41 PART 60-3/4/20/50 – OBLIGATIONS OF CONTRACTORS AND

SUBCONTRACTORS

These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered Applicants and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans, qualified individuals with disabilities and all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

1.5.5 It is the policy of AACOG to conduct procurement in a manner that provides for full and open competition. An award will be made only to an organization possessing the qualifications and demonstrated ability to perform successfully under the terms and conditions of a contract. The services solicited under this RFA are procured under the Competitive Proposal Method through Informal (phone, email, fax) and formal (RFA) methods.

1.5.6 The RFA will be posted as noted on Page 1, RFA Links, or at the request of the proposer, by contacting procurement staff at the above fax or e-mail beginning September 9, 2025. The RFA is also available at the above address from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except for holidays). Any interested party that receives this RFA by means other than directly from AACOG is responsible for notifying AACOG that it has received an RFA package so that when an addendum to this RFA is issued the information can be provided to all interested

Page 15 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE parties.

1.6 ELIGIBLE EXPENSES

The following categories of expenses may be eligible for funding under this program. All expenses must directly relate to the conduct of the proposed project.

1.6.1 Personnel

Appropriate salaries and fringe benefits for employees working directly on the funded project may be authorized under most of the grant categories.

1.6.2 Travel

Travel expenses directly related to the conduct of the funded program may be authorized. Only the employees of the pass-through grant recipient assigned to the project should receive reimbursement for travel expenses. In accordance with the TxGMS 2.0, in those instances where grantees do not have an established organization-wide written travel policy approved by the governing board of the local jurisdiction, all employee-related travel expenses must be claimed at no higher than the same rates allowed by the State of Texas for its employees. For authorized reimbursement through the Regional Solid Waste Grants Contract, all travel authorized for pass-through recipients must comply with Chapter 660 of the Government Code, and Article IX of the General Appropriations Act, 89th Legislative Session.

1.6.3 Supplies

Expenses for supplies necessary for the conduct of the funded project may be authorized.

Expenses included under the supplies expense category of a project budget should be for non-construction related costs for goods and materials having a unit acquisition cost (including freight) of less than $10,000. Such expenditures must generally relate to the routine purchase of office supplies (paper, pencils, and staplers) or other goods which are consumed in a relatively short period of time in regular performance of the general activities of the proposed project.

1.6.4 Equipment

Equipment necessary and appropriate for the proposed project may be authorized. AACOG must carefully evaluate all requests for equipment to determine the appropriateness of the equipment for the project. No equipment is to be purchased by a pass-through grant recipient unless approved in advance by AACOG. Expenses included under the equipment expense category should be for non-construction related, tangible, personal property having a unit acquisition cost of $10,000 or more (including freight and set up costs) with an estimated useful life of over one year. Any equipment that will be used for other projects or activities, in addition to the funded project, may only be funded at an amount reflecting the pro-rata percentage of time the equipment will be directly used for the funded project. The special conditions and requirements set forth in the grant agreement (relating to Title to and Management of Equipment and Constructed Facilities), also apply to equipment purchased with pass-through grant funding. Replacement equipment is not eligible for funding.

1.6.4.1 Subject to the obligations and conditions set forth in this Agreement, title to real property and equipment (together hereafter referred to in this RFA as “property”) acquired under this Agreement will vest upon acquisition or construction in the sub-grant recipient.

1.6.4.2 Subject to the provisions of this Agreement and as otherwise provided by state statutes, property acquired or replaced under this Agreement shall be used for the duration of

Page 16 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE its normally expected useful life to support the purposes of this Agreement whether or not the original projects or programs continue to be supported by state funds.

1.6.4.3 The recipient shall not grant or allow to a third party a security interest in any original or replacement property purchased or constructed with funds made available under this Agreement.

1.6.4.4 The use of property acquired under this Agreement, both during the term of this

Agreement and for the useful life of the property or until compensation is provided to the TCEQ for the applicable percentage share of the fair market value of the property, shall be in compliance with §361.014(b) of the Texas Health and Safety Code, which directs that a project or service funded under this program must promote cooperation between public and private entities and may not be otherwise readily available or create a competitive advantage over a private industry that provides recycling or solid waste services.

1.6.4.5 The recipient may develop and use their own property management systems, which must conform with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations.

If an adequate system for accounting for property owned by the recipient is not in place or is not used properly, the Property Accounting System Manual issued by the State Comptroller of Public Accounts will be used as a guide for establishing such a system.

The property management system used by the recipient must meet the requirements set forth as follows:

1.6.4.5.1 Property records must be maintained that include a description of the property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of the property, who holds title, the acquisition date, and the cost of the property, percentage of state participation in the cost of the property, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.

1.6.4.5.2 A physical inventory of all equipment acquired or replaced under this Agreement shall be conducted no less frequently than once every two years and the results of such inventories reconciled with the appropriate property records. Property control procedures utilized by the recipient shall include adequate safeguards to prevent loss, damage, or theft of the acquired property. Any loss, damage, or theft shall be investigated. The recipient shall develop and carry out a program of property maintenance as necessary to keep both originally acquired and any replaced property in good condition, and to utilize proper sales procedures to ensure the highest possible return, in the event such property is sold.

1.6.4.5.3 Certain types of equipment are classified as “controlled assets” and are subject to annual revision. For more information, refer to TxGMS 2.0.

1.6.4.5.4 The following equipment with costs between $1,000.00 and $9,999.99 shall be maintained on the inventory system: (1) stereo systems, sound systems, and other audio equipment; (2) still and video cameras; (3) facsimile machines; (4) televisions and video players/recorders, and combinations thereof; (5) desktop CPUs, printers, data projectors, portable CPU laptops; and, (6) cellular and portable telephones, including smartphones; tablets; and other handheld devices.

1.6.4.5.5 All single unit acquisitions costs between $1,000.00 and $9,999.99 shall be maintained on the inventory system. Examples: include trailers, roll-off

Page 17 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE bins, recycling bins/carts, etc.

1.6.4.6 The recipient may for the purpose of replacing property acquired under this

Agreement, either trade in or sell the property and use the proceeds of such trade-in or sale to offset the cost of acquiring needed replacement property.

1.6.4.7 If a determination is made that any property acquired with funds provided under this

Agreement with a current per-unit fair market value of $10,000 or more is no longer needed for the originally authorized purpose, the TCEQ has the right to require disposition of the property by the recipient.

1.6.4.8 When property acquired by a recipient with grant funds provided under this Agreement is no longer needed for the originally authorized purpose, the Agreement will require the recipient to request disposition instructions from AACOG or, if AACOG is no longer administering a Regional Solid Waste Grants Program, the TCEQ. AACOG shall, in turn, request authorization from TCEQ to provide disposition instructions to the recipient. Disposition instructions shall solicit, at a minimum, information on the source and amount of funds used in acquiring the property, the date acquired, the fair market value and how the value was determined (e.g., by appraisal, bids, etc.), and the proposed use of the proceeds. The assessment of whether to authorize the proposed disposition of the property must include a determination that the disposition plan will comply with the private industry provisions of §361.014(b) of the Texas Health and Safety Code. In cases where the recipient fails to take appropriate disposition actions, the TCEQ may direct AACOG or the recipient to take excess and disposition actions.

The disposition instructions may provide for one of the alternatives as set forth as follows:

1.6.4.8.1 Retain title, sell, or otherwise disposed of with no obligation to compensate AACOG.

1.6.4.8.2 Retain title after compensating AACOG. If AACOG is compensated by a recipient for property acquired using funds provided under this Agreement, AACOG will in turn compensate the TCEQ or, upon authorization by the TCEQ, use those funds for other projects or activities that support this or similar future programs conducted by the TCEQ. The amount due will be computed by applying the percentage of state-funded participation in the cost of the original purchase to the fair market value of the property.

1.6.4.8.3 Sell the property and compensate AACOG. If AACOG is compensated by a recipient for property acquired using funds provided under this Agreement, AACOG will in turn compensate the TCEQ or, upon authorization by the TCEQ, use those funds for other projects or activities that support the goals of this or similar future programs conducted by the TCEQ. The amount due will be calculated by applying the TCEQ’s percentage of participation in the cost of the original purchase to the proceeds of the sale after deduction of any actual and reasonable selling and fixing-up expenses. If the grant is still active, the net proceeds from sale may be offset against the original cost of the property. When the recipient is directed to sell property, sales procedures shall be followed that provide for competition to the extent practicable and result in the highest possible return.

1.6.4.8.4 Transfer title to the AACOG, or to a third-party designated/approved by

Page 18 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE the TCEQ. If AACOG or the recipient participated financially in the original purchase of the property, AACOG or the recipient may be authorized payment from the receiving party of an amount calculated by applying the percentage of the participation in the original purchase of the property to the current fair market value of the property.

1.6.4.9 Items of property with a current per-unit fair market value of less than $1,000 may be retained, sold or otherwise disposed of by the recipient with no further obligation to the TCEQ. Methods used to determine per-unit fair market value must be documented, kept on file and made available to the TCEQ upon request.

1.6.4.10 Real property must be maintained on an Inventory and is subject to the requirements of TxGMS 2.0. Subject to the obligations and conditions set forth in this Agreement, title to real property acquired under this Agreement by the recipient will vest upon acquisition or construction in the recipient.

1.6.5 Construction

Appropriate construction costs may be authorized. Expenses budgeted under this category should be for costs related to the enhancement or building of permanent facilities. No construction costs may be incurred by a pass-through grant recipient unless the construction details are approved in advance by AACOG. Appropriate costs that may be included are:

1.6.5.1 The cost of planning the project;

1.6.5.2 The cost of materials and labor connected to the construction project;

1.6.5.3 The cost of equipment attached to the permanent structure; and

1.6.5.4 Any subcontracts, including contracts for services, performed as part of the construction.

1.6.6 Contractual Expenses

Professional services or appropriate tasks provided by a firm or individual who is not employed by the pass-through grant recipient for conducting the funded project may be authorized for subcontracting by the recipient. No contractual costs should be incurred by a pass-through grant recipient unless the subcontract is approved in advance by AACOG. Applicable laws and regulations concerning bidding and contracting for services must be followed. Any amendment to a subcontract which will result in or require substantive changes to any of the originally contracted tasks required to be performed must be approved in writing by AACOG.

1.6.7 Other Expenses

Other expenses not falling under the main expense categories may be included if connected with the tasks and activities of the proposed project. The restrictions set forth in the TxGMS

2.0 and the main grant agreement apply. AACOG must ensure that expenses budgeted under this "Other" category are itemized by the grant recipient and are fully considered and evaluated by AACOG. Some expenses that may be appropriate include:

1.6.7.1 Postage/Delivery

1.6.7.2 Telephone/FAX

1.6.7.3 Utilities

1.6.7.4 Printing/Reproduction

1.6.7.5 Advertising/Public Notices

1.6.7.6 Signage

1.6.7.7 Training/Registration Fees

Page 19 RFA-25-60-SOLIDWASTE

1.6.7.8 Office Space

1.6.7.9 Basic Office Furnishings

1.6.7.10 Computer Hardware (greater than $1,000 and less than $9,999.99 not listed under the

Equipment category)

1.6.7.11 Computer Software

1.6.7.12 Equipment Rentals

1.6.7.13 Personal Protective Equipment

1.6.8 Indirect

Indirect costs may be funded, if applicable to the project. In accordance with the TxGMS 2.0, indirect charges may be authorized if the applicant has an indirect cost rate properly filed within the past 24 months by a federal cognizant agency or state single audit coordinating agency.

Alternatively, the applicant may be authorized to recover up to 10% of direct salary and wage costs (excluding overtime, shift premiums, and fringe benefits) as indirect costs, subject to adequate documentation. If the Applicant has an approved cost allocation plan, enclose documentation of the approved indirect rate with the project application.

1.7 PROJECT BUDGET ALLOCATION

The Alamo Area Council of…