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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

LANDSCAPING, ARBORIST, MOWINIG

AND TREE TRIMMING SERVICES

RFP # 717-26-716

DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTAL:

3:00 p.m., Central Time, Thursday, January 15, 2026

(Proposals received after the date and time specified will not be accepted)

Texas Southern University

PROCUREMENT SERVICES

Attn: Sceffers Ward 3100 Cleburne Street

Mack O. Hannah Hall, Suite 333 Houston, Texas 77004 - 4598

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GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 SCOPE. The State of Texas, by and through Texas Southern University (TSU), seeks sealed proposals to establish a contract for Landscaping, Arborist services, Mowing and Tree Trimming Services for work needed by the University, in accordance with the specifications contained in this Request for Proposal (RFP).

1.2 CONTRACT TERM. The services requested shall be provided for a period of three (3) years, beginning with the execution of the contract; with two (2) single-year options upon written agreement from both parties.

1.3 DEFINITIONS. The following is a list of generic definitions to be used only if the terms appear in the RFP:

(a) Acceptable Quality Level - The level of performance of requested services below which the contract will not be paid or damages may be assessed

(b) Addendum - A modification of the specifications issued by TSU and distributed to prospective Respondents prior to the opening of responses

(c) Best and Final Proposal (BAFO) - A formal request made to selected Respondents for revisions to the originally submitted Proposal

(d) Contract – The contract awarded as a result of this RFP and all exhibits thereto. This RFP, any Addendum issued in conjunction with this RFP, the successful Respondent’s Proposal, any BAFO, and subsequent submission by

Respondent, shall all be fully incorporated therein as exhibits

(e) Contractor – Respondent whose proposal results in a contract with TSU

(f) Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) – The Electronic State Business Daily, which is available on-line at http:esbd.state.tx.us/

(g) Gov’t Code – Texas Government Code.

(h) Proposal – The response submitted by a vendor to TSU as a result of this solicitation.

(i) Respondent – Any person, firm or vendor who submits a Proposal in response to this solicitation.

(j) RFP – Request for Proposals, which is the type of solicitation embodied in this document.

(k) TAC – Texas Administrative Code, which is the publication for administrative rules.

1.4 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:

A. Actual and Perceived Conflicts

By submitting a Proposal, the Respondent represents and warrants that neither it nor its employees and subcontractors have an actual or potential conflict of interest in entering a Contract with the TSU. The Respondent also represents and warrants that entering a Contract with the TSU will not create the appearance of impropriety. In its Proposal, the

Respondent shall disclose any existing or potential conflict of interest that it might have in contracting with the TSU.

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The requirement to disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest shall begin at initial request for bids and continue during the term of the contract and shall survive until the end of the recordkeeping requirement in Section

1.5. TSU will decide, in its sole discretion, whether an actual or perceived conflict should result in Proposal disqualification or Contract termination.

B. Current and Former TSU Employees

In addition to the disclosures required above, the Respondent shall also disclose any of its personnel who are current or former officers or employees of the TSU or who are related, within the third degree by consanguinity (as defined by

§573.023, Gov’t Code) or within the second degree by affinity (as defined by §573.025, Gov’t Code), to any current or former officers or employees of the TSU.

Respondents must comply with all applicable Texas and federal laws and regulations relating to the hiring of former state employees (e.g., Texas Government Code Chapters 572 and 573). Such “revolving door” provisions generally restrict former agency heads from communicating with or appearing before the agency on certain matters for two years after leaving the agency. The revolving door provisions also restrict some former employees from representing clients on matters that the employee participated in during state service or matters that were in the employees’ official responsibility. Respondent, by signing this solicitation, certifies that it has complied with all applicable laws and regulations regarding former state employees.

1.5 RECORDS RETENTION

The Respondent shall retain all financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and any other records or books relating to the performance called for in the Contract. The Respondent shall retain all such records for a period of seven (7) years after the expiration of the Contract, or until TSU and/or State Auditor's Office is satisfied that all audit and litigation matters are resolved, whichever period is longer. The Respondent shall grant access to all books, records and documents pertinent to the Contract to TSU, the State Auditor of Texas, and any federal governmental entity that has authority to review records due to federal funds being spent under the Contract.

1.6 INSURANCE AND OTHER SECURITY

Contractor represents and warrants that it will, within five (5) business days of executing this agreement, provide

Texas Southern University with current certificates of insurance or other proof acceptable to Texas Southern

University of the following insurance coverage:

Standard Workers Compensation Insurance covering all personnel who will provide services under this

Contract;

Commercial General Liability Insurance, personal injury and advertising injury with, at a minimum, the following limits: $500,000 minimum each occurrence; $1,000,000 per general aggregate.

Contractor represents and warrants that all of the above coverage is with companies licensed in the state of Texas, with

“A” rating from Best, and authorized to provide the corresponding coverage. Contractor also represents and warrants that all policies contain endorsements prohibiting cancellation except upon at least thirty (30) days prior written notice to Texas Southern University. Contractor represents and warrants that it shall maintain the above insurance coverage during the term of this Contract and shall provide Texas Southern University with an executed copy of the policies immediately upon request.

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1.7 COMMODITY CODE

The NIGP / State of Texas commodity codes for this solicitation are 988 - 02, 36, 52, 87 and 88.

1.8 BACKGROUND

Texas Southern University (“TSU”) is an elite, Carnegie R2 Institution and proud to be the premiere producer of diversity for building a talent strong Texas. The Owner one of the largest Historically Black College/University

(“HBCU”) in the nation and destined to become the first HBCU with the coveted Carnegie R1 status.

Since its founding in 1927, TSU has evolved from its origins as a small junior college into an elite, nationally competitive, Texas Southern is proud to be one of 11 HBCU’s designated as a Doctoral University of High Research

Activity (R2) by The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Recognized for not only its research, TSU has demonstrated a commitment in every facet of university life from academics to athletics. Texas Southern

University currently offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate programs and concentrations at the baccalaureate, graduate-master, graduate-doctoral, and professional level. These programs are organized into 11 colleges and the campus is situated on more than 150-acres of land in the heart of Houston’s historic Third Ward community.

As the institution celebrates 97 years of providing learners with social and upward mobility through education, the administration has paid tribute to its rich past, while celebrating its present state, and envisioning its future.

Currently, Texas Southern University enrollment is approximately 8,000 students. The institution is currently finalizing a new strategic plan for the campus community. Preliminary strategies and goals contemplate the institution moving to 10,000 students by 2025 and 15,000 students in fall 2030.

Texas Southern University is committed to transforming lives and achieving unprecedented success at an accelerated pace. The Board of Regents, President, Administration, Faculty, and Staff live the mission of TSU everyday through their respective commitment to the students. Texas Southern University is PROUD to be the first public institution in

Houston.

End of Section I

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SECTION II

SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 SCOPE

The purpose of this RFP is to solicit a Qualified Arborist and/or Landscaping Company or Companies to work closely with the TSU Grounds Department to provide customary landscaping, scheduled mowing, arborist and tree trimming services throughout the University Campus, as well as off-site properties; utilizing the appropriate methods that will enhance the campus natural beauty, natural lighting, shade, and organic aromas.

2.2 Project Overview

Texas Southern University (TSU) seeks proposals from qualified firms that are Landscape Architects and Certified

Arborists trained and equipped to safely perform tree care and landscaping services in accordance with the scope of work noted below. Respondents are invited to submit a written response outlining their qualifications and experience in accordance with the terms, conditions, and requirements set forth in the Request for Proposal (RFP). The scope of services should reflect all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards.

2.3 General Project Requirements

The Contractor shall:

a.) Provide Mowing, Arborist, Landscaping/Landscape Design, Grounds Maintenance and Tree Trimming services for the entire CAMPUS as requested – both in interior and exterior boundaries including all fence lines on TSU property (North – Cleburne Street, South Blodgett, East Scott, and West Ennis Street); as well as any/all off-site properties owned and maintained by TSU b.) Provide Arborist, Landscaping, Mowing and Tree Trimming services in a project phase approach c.) All trees will be trimmed following these priorities

a. Limbs touching or overhanging buildings

b. Damaged or dead limbs

c. Limbs obstructing walkways, driveways, and parking areas d.) Prepare the areas for tree trimming, pruning, installation, and removal, stump grinding e.) The contract may include the application of pesticides, including insecticide and fungicide, however, must be approved by TSU personnel. Any Overspray or adverse reaction to our grounds must be corrected by vendor.

f.) Heavy equipment such as bucket trucks must be pre-approved by the Building and Grounds Department before any equipment is brought onto TSU premises g.) Protect the surrounding area which will be included in all services h.) Provide all supervision, labor, materials, and equipment necessary to accomplish the services requested by

TSU

i.) All service workers on TSU property will be given identification badges approved by TSU.

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2.4 Quality Assurance

a.) Submit copies of arborist reports related to the health and conditions of trees, shrubs, flowers, and other organic plant life, notices, and similar documents to the designated TSU representative (where applicable) b.) Handle and store materials, such as fertilizer, pesticides, fungicide, etc., in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction c.) Submit all pertinent information to the designated TSU representative regarding any Subcontractor for approval prior to using and Subcontractor for the first time at TSU d.) All normal precautions associated with Landscaping, Arborist, Mowing and Tree Trimming must be taken to protect the safety of all buildings, their occupants, and the Contractor’s staff.

2.5 Specifications and Drawings

a.) Any or all drawings are for reference only b.) When a discrepancy or ambiguity arises between the written specifications and the drawings, the written specifications shall govern c.) The Contractor is responsible for field verification and job site conditions that may affect the cost of the project

2.6 Detailed Project Requirements

Services requested by TSU may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

a.) Tree, shrubs, and limb removal b.) Tree, shrubs, and plant installation must be approved by the Director of Customer Service for Buildings and

Grounds and/or Assistant Director of Grounds Maintenance. (150 flats per year with Seasonal Color) c.) Pruning, controlling tree size; thinning for additional light; improving wind and storm resistance; removing excessive weight at branch ends d.) Preventative Health Check for trees, grass, and plants e.) Diagnosis for pests, diseases, and fertilizer need f.) Stump grinding and removal g.) Tree and landscape design consulting services h.) Cutting Requirements:

a. All cuts will be treated with some type of paint, dope, etc., which shall be chosen for the minimal visual and destructive impact

b. Prior to the commencement of any work on TSU’s property, all cutting equipment shall be disinfected to prevent the spread of infection or contamination

c. Optional Services -Planting of new trees:

i. Spray treatment for ball moss jeopardizing the health of trees.

ii. Removal of ball moss when/where spraying is not feasible.

iii. Deep Root Feeding.

iv. Delivery of mulch i.) Trimming Height

a. Limbs that obstruct driveways and/or streets will be kept at a thirteen-foot (13.0') clearance

b. Limbs that obstruct pedestrian traffic will be kept at a minimum Eight-foot (8') clearance

c. Limbs that obstruct vehicle parking will be kept at a minimum Eight-foot, (8) clearance j.) Sucker Growth Removal

a. Sucker growth will be removed during the annual visit from all trees

Page | 7 k.) Emergencies

a. Limbs or trees that may fall or create a hazardous situation

b. Response time must be within two (4) hours of the initial contact from a TSU employee regardless of city or area-wide damage

c. Work involved in an emergency will be completed to the point of providing safe conditions as agreed upon by TSU and Contractor. The number of hours involved will need to be determined by the vendor and approved by TSU Building and Grounds, Director of Customer Service, or Assistant

Director of Grounds Maintenance or designee. The balance of the work can be completed during normal working hours defined as Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. –

Weekends may be considered, but must be approved.

l.) Trees to be trimmed as requested by TSU to mitigate the blocking sight lines for Cameras and Lighting are listed below:

a. GRAY HALL

i. 102 –SGH – NE Corner (By 109):

1. Camera 02 – Cleburne Side Basement Entrance

2. Camera 03 – Cleburne Side Basement Entrance

3. Camera 04 - Cleburne Side Basement Entrance

ii. 102-SGH – North Wall Corner (by 142):

1. Camera 01 – Cleburne Side

2. Camera 02 – Cleburne Side

3. Camera 03 – Cleburne Side

iii. 102 – SGH – NW Corner (By 166):

1. Camera 03 – Lots A/B Entrance

2. Camera 04 – Lots A/B Entrance

iv. 102 - SGH – SW Corner (By 152):

1. Camera 01 Post Office/ Tiger Walk

2. Camera 03 Post Office/ Tiger Walk

b. AIRWAY SCIENCE

i. 106 - AWS – EXIT PARKING LOT SIDE (125):

1. Camera 03 Lot A

ii. 106 - AWS Exit Corner P Master Off:

1. Camera 01 Post Office/Tiger Walk

2. Camera 03 Post Office/ Tiger Walk

c. BIGGERS ART

i. 107 – BAC – Back Exit SE (Transfer Yard) Back Facing Tap Trail

ii. 107 - BAC Exit South Entrance (Rm 104)

1. Camera 04 – Facing Lot L Entrance

d. REC CENTER

i. 111-SRC -Exit Front Tiger Walk:

1. Camera 01 (Tiger Walk/Bike Rails)

2. Camera 04 (Tiger Walk/Bike Rails)

ii. 111 -SRC – Side View Parking/Field House:

1. Camera 01 Lot F Durley/ FH

2. Camera 03 Lot F Durley/FH

e. EARL CARL

i. 116-ECI NW Corner (Walk Path)

1. Camera 03 Tap Trail @ Benches

f. LANIER WEST

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i. 130 – Lanier West Exit Tiger Walk View:

1. (Bell) Camera 01 – Tiger Walk Side

2. (Paige) Camera 03 – Tiger Walk Facing Education

3. (Paige) Camera 04 – Tiger Walk Side

ii. 130- Lanier West Main Entrance (Sterling):

1. Camera 01 – Facing Student Center Side

g. KTSU

i. 136 – KTSU Exit NE Corner

1. Camera 04 – Facing Lot M

ii. 136 – KTSU Exit North Wall

1. Camera 03 – Facing Back of Bell

h. EDUCATION

i. 149- Paige Edu. Lot 1 Exit SE Corner

1. Camera 04 Tiger Walk & Lanier West

i. WAREHOUSE

i. 152 – WH&R – Exit Blodgett/Receiving Door

1. Camera 04 Blodgett Side

j. NABRIT SCIENCE

i. Trees on the southwest corner of the building covering the camera m.) Tree Removal

a. The Contractor shall contact TSU Building and Grounds, Director of Customer Service and/or

Assistant Director of Grounds Maintenance or designee prior to removal of such trees so that he/she may ensure proper procedures are followed prior to continuing with removal of dead and/or diseased trees, as well as, those killed by lightning.

b. When trees are removed the stump shall be grounded below grade level n.) Tree and Tree Parts Disposal

a. The Contractor shall ensure that all cuttings, limbs, stumps, etc., are removed from TSU property at the time of their removal.

b. NOTE: Special arrangements may be made for the dumping of mulched material for use by the TSU

Grounds Department by contacting the Assistant Director of Building and Grounds

c. All concrete and paved areas shall be cleaned and left as they were before work was initiated

d. All turf areas shall be cleaned and left as they were before work was initiated

2.7 Housekeeping and Cleaning

a.) At all times during the process and upon completion of work, the Contractor shall keep all areas clean by removing and disposing of empty containers, trash, and debris from the work site.

b.) The Contractor will be responsible for the cleanup of all spills by contractor personnel.

2.8 Temporary Facilities, Utilities, and Operations

a.) Provide temporary protection for adjacent areas not being worked, to prevent contamination by oils, fuels, pesticides, fungicide, and non-bioenvironmental freely chemicals and debris b.) All electrical (above or underground, electronic, and/or specially coated equipment and/or surfaces), under-

Page | 9 ground power lines, sprinkler systems, piping, and plumbing lines shall be protected from potential damage that may result from Arborist and Tree Trimming services c.) The Contractor is directly responsible for providing and placing barricades and approved traffic control devices, including advance signage if necessary, to ensure pedestrian safety and prevent damage to buildings or vehicles d.) Any physical disturbance to non-approved landscape area(s) (including flower beds, signage beds, trees, and turf) must be repaired/restored to original condition. Any disturbance of landscape mulch or damaged turf must be corrected

2.9 Contractor Supplies and Equipment

a.) The total bid price for the services specified herein shall include all costs to the Contractor for furnishing all equipment (Contractor-owned and/or rental power chain saw, spades, stump grinder, tools, safety equipment, ladders, scaffolds, hanging platforms, man-lifts) and supplies (except where noted below) necessary to carry out the Arborist and Tree Trimming services. All equipment and supplies used must be capable of performing all operations in accordance with specifications b.) All materials and equipment will be removed from the work area when not in use unless given permission to leave in place by TSU. The contractor’s materials and equipment will be the responsibility of the Contractor and should be stored in a safe place, such as, a storage trailer, or if available, neatly stored in a secure location identified by the designated TSU representative

2.10 Safety Data Sheets

Prior to starting, the Contractor must provide Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for all potentially hazardous products provided by the

Contractor and used on site a.) All work will be conducted in accordance with OSHA and all other applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

The Contractor will also comply with TSU Safety Guidelines and Rules, and TSU Operation Standards b.) When working above any area where people might cross below, Contractor must neatly and professionally cordon off area(s) using commercially produced barricades equipment or fencing (e.g. no buckets, ropes, wood stakes) and post professionally-fabricated signs (e.g. no handwritten/stenciled or spray-painted signs) for indicating the area(s) is/are closed to pedestrian traffic. Signs must be the efficient size with specific wording to clearly indicate that work is occurring above c.) Should barricading alone prove ineffectual in keeping pedestrians from entering these closed areas, the Contractor must post an employee to direct pedestrians around the work area d.) Work shall be done in such a manner to create a safe working and walking environment, always, for occupants of the work area. Work shall be done in a manner as to be of little disruption to campus occupants. Work shall be done in a manner that does not compromise the security of the work area or the occupants

2.11 Personnel

a.) Contractor shall have in their employ, or under their control, qualified and competent personnel to perform work promptly and in accordance with contract schedules. Crew Members shall

i. Have a minimum of two years of experience within the last three years

ii. Have the knowledge to develop and implement the service requirements in this solicitation.

iii. Have a crew member qualified to operate a truck-mounted aerial device bucket and possess a valid class “B” CDL License with airbrake endorsement b.) The Contractor shall utilize, on this contract, only workers that are skilled in the tasks to which they are assigned.

The Contractor warrants to TSU that the workmen used on the job are regularly employed by the contracting company or the Subcontractor’s company or companies. Further, the Contractor warrants that craftsmen skilled in the trades necessary to complete the work will perform all work done on the job. Laborers and unskilled workmen will not be used under any circumstances to perform tasks requiring a skill

Page | 10 c.) TSU reserves the right to question the use of an employee whom TSU feels is unskilled or untrained on a task that requires a skill. If the Contractors intends to use laborers or unskilled workmen on any aspect of the contract, the

Contractor must furnish a list of the tasks to be performed by said laborers and unskilled workmen in their bid d.) TSU retains the right to require the reassignment of an employee or employees as TSU may deem necessary.

Reasons for this request may be but are not limited to poor work performance, incompetence, carelessness, or otherwise objectionable behavior. The request for reassignment is in no way a call for dismissal. It is just a request for the individual to be reassigned away from TSU facilities.

e.) If the Contractor is requested to replace any employee, the loss on the job shall be the responsibility of the

Contractor and shall not be an acceptable reason for requesting extensions of the completion deadline or task assigned under this contract f.) Contractor crews will be working on a drug-free campus (no illegal substances or products) Contractor will be required to remove any worker who violates the drug-free campus rule or any employee who reports to the job manifesting evidence of alcoholic beverages or illegal drug use

2.12 Supervision

a.) The Contractor shall provide all supervision on-site to coordinate and inspect the work. There will be a supervisor or point-of-contact (working foreman is acceptable) readily available to the designated TSU representative when work is being performed

a. FOREMAN: A foreman with a minimum of three years of experience within the last five years operating equipment used in landscaping, tree trimming, removal and pruning operations

b. ISA CERTIFIED ARBORIST: The arborist shall

i. Have a minimum of three years’ experience within the last five years in project management or similar services

ii. Be certified through ISA b.) The Contractor shall provide all supervision on-site supervisor/foreman shall check-in with designated TSU representative daily (in person or by telephone) prior to starting work. The on-site supervisor/foreman will also contact the designated TSU representative for inspection after completing the work or leaving for the day

2.13 Scheduling and Coordination of Work

TSU will schedule and coordinate all activities and work being performed on TSU campus. Contractor's superintendent/manager will personally contact authorized TSU’s staff member before the start of any work on campuses and/or the delay of any equipment or materials to coordinate the TSU's schedules and other work being performed on campus.

The Contractor shall contact the Assistant Director of Building and Grounds or designee, to set up the best time for work to be done so that the least obstruction to TSU routine operations will occur. TSU will provide Contractor with relevant telephone numbers and contacts.

It is expected that your firm has the current capabilities and capacity to complete the project by the date listed in the project schedule.

a.) The Contractor will be responsible for coordinating the work of all trades provided under this contract b.) TSU is a twenty-four (24) hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five (365) days a year operation. The designated TSU representative must approve any work scheduling that will interfere with the normal operation of the facility, students, or its personnel c.) All tasks are to be performed in a workman like manner, in accordance with industry standards and acceptable trade practices for all trades involved d.) After awarding the contract to the selected Contractor(s), a detailed schedule (start and completion) for each building, parking lots, sidewalks, and curbs must be summitted before the start of any work, Page | 11 to notify the occupants of the buildings and users of the parking lots, and sidewalks in a timely manner.

2.14 Performance

a.) TSU requires quality work performed in a competent manner. All Contractor workers shall be required to meet contract specifications with no prompting or direction from TSU staff b.) TSU will be the sole judge concerning the merits or products, materials, and/or service(s) provided in accordance with specification set forth in this document, or if it is determined the Contractor is operating in violation of federal, state and local applicable laws and ordinances. No latitude will be given for failure to perform properly.

c.) The Contractor will correct or cause to have corrected any substandard work as requested by TSU prior to the conclusion of the corresponding work order

a. An unsatisfactory performance determination includes, but is not limited to:

i. One-service “call back” to correct the same problem within 30 calendar days.

ii. One instance within one year of vendor personnel assigned to an authorized service call not having the state license and certification required to diagnose the problem and perform the repair

iii. One instance within one year of response time, as defined in this specification, to an authorized service call exceeding the two-hour limit

NOTE: Unsatisfactory performance may result in a negative vendor performance report, cancellation of the purchase order, or both d.) An exceptional performance determination includes, but is not limited to

a. Deliverables made early upon TSU member request

b. Additional trimming, pruning, or removal service(s) suggested and accepted at no additional cost to TSU

c. Vendor commended for exceptional customer service; exceptional service provided e.) No notice of completion, delivery memo, invoice or other documents will be signed, or approvals of any type give for any part of the job or delivery of any equipment or materials, except by the designated TSU representative.

f.) Work may be performed during normal working hours if it does not interfere with pedestrian traffic or other functions in the work area. However, bidders should price accordingly for the bulk of tasks to be performed after business hours and on weekends

2.14 Identification

a.) Contractor personnel will always be in a uniform displaying the company logo and will always display their TSU identification badge (if issued by TSU) while on TSU property.

b.) Contractor will immediately retrieve and return TSU identification badges (if issued) for personnel that have been terminated from employment or all badges at the end of the contract

2.15 Waste

a.) The Contractor is responsible for all waste generated by the work. TSU will provide access to one specific solid waste dumpster (Not other temporary dumpsters belonging to other Contractors).

b.) Containers holding hazardous waste or holding potentially hazardous materials residue (even rinsed out) will not be allowed in this or any other on-campus waste receptacle. Any violation of these conditions will result in the

Contractor being required to remove “ALL” future waste products of any kind from “ALL” TSU trash/dumpster receptacles and disposed of off-campus in accordance will all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations

2.16 Use of Property

a.) There will be no office, storage, or disposal space provided to the Contractor

Page | 12 b.) The TSU Representative will provide the Contractor or Subcontractor with designated parking. Contractor vehicles are required to park in the designated parking areas that are available on the Campus

2.17 Mowing

a) Included in the RFP is a map of the TSU campus showing the general areas that we require regularly scheduled mowing.

b) Also, the properties at the below addresses require scheduled mowing as well:

3707 Ennis St. 4,748.

3715 Ennis St. 2,252.

3717 Ennis St. 4,748.

3545-Wheeler St.

3830 Canfield St. #20 (mostly concrete, to be addressed at walk through)

3003 Alabama St. 4, 750 sq ft

2801 Alabama St. 72,309.6. (1.66 acres)

2810 Alabama St. – 5,776 SF

2812 Alabama St – 5,775 SF

2816 Alabama St – 5,775 SF

3011 Alabama St. 9,496.

3024 Alabama St. 5,793.

3710 Palmer St. 4,748.

3706 Palmer St. 4,748

3002 Winbern St. 4,748.

3408 Blodgett Street Houston, TX 77004

10511 Twin Circles Montgomery, TX 77356

10507 Twin Circles Montgomery, TX 77356

10503 Twin Circles Montgomery, TX 77356

Rosewood Street from Tierwester to Scott Street (Side walk to Sidewalk)*

Tierwester Street from Rosewood to Blodgett (Sidewalk to sidewalk)*

Blodgett Street from Ennis to Scott Street (Sidewalk to Sidewalk)*

* This includes the street curbs up to the sidewalk on each side of the road.

End of Section II

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SECTION III

CRITERIA

3.1 CRITERIA

Landscaping, Arborist, Mowing and Tree Trimming Services to an outside source includes, but is not limited to, the requirements contained in this RFP. Specifications and requirements set forth that contain the words ‘must’ or ‘shall’ are mandatory and must be provided as specified with no alteration, modification, or exception. Specifications and requirements set forth that contain the words ‘may’ or ‘can’ allow Respondents to offer alternatives to the manner in which the commodities/services are provided. The criteria in which your response will be evaluated are as follows:

Criterion 1: Experience and Qualifications

Criterion 2: Scope of Services

Criterion 3: Schedule

Criterion 4: References

Criterion 5: Cost

3.2 CRITERION 1 – EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

1. Identify the individual who will be the main point of contact and the team responsible for providing services for the duration of the project. Consultant shall not change or substitute these individuals without prior approval. The

Owner reserves the right to determine the acceptability of these individuals

2. Provide proofs of certification for the ISA-certified arborists and licensed landscaper on your staff

3. Contractor must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience

4. Provide all lead team members experience and responsibilities, including resumes. Provide background information including education, professional titles, related qualifications, specific roles in past projects

5. Describe your firms experience with providing mowing, arborist, landscaping and tree trimming, highlighting any projects with similar size and scope to the proposed project.

6. Provide your firms organization structure and responsibilities that will identify how your company will properly fulfill service requirements in multiple locations simultaneously

7. Provide a list of equipment that will be utilized to fulfill service requirements

8. Have all local, state, and federal licenses applicable to complete this service.

9. How does your firm provide an in-depth cost evaluation of proposals, fees, and budgets?

10. Show your ability/approach to organize, develop, and maintain project schedules.

11. Based on your current workforce and staffing in addition to the number of projects your firm currently has under contract or in negotiation does your firm have the capacity to complete this project?

12. This project requires the Candidate to carry, at a minimum, general liability insurance and worker’s compensation according to State laws.

13. Provide description of any lawsuits or claims including status and resolutions.

14. Identify any other unique challenges/approaches that you have experienced that will assist TSU with a successful project.

15. What does your firm do to ensure a safe working site?

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3.3 CRITERION 2 – SCOPE OF SERVICES

1. Project Understanding

In this section, the Proposer should describe the project for which your firm would like to be evaluated on and your firm’s understanding of the project. It will also important for the Proposer to identify and describe any foreseeable potential problems and methods to mitigate those problems with specifically proposed solutions.

2. Project Management

• Describe service approach you plan to use and how quality of service will be measured for this project.

• Describe your plan to maintain effective communication with TSU.

• Describe your controls and methods for managing change orders

• Describe your management philosophy, controls, techniques, etc.

• Explain your understanding, knowledge, and experience in local landscape and arborist markets.

• Describe your history of successful and timely project completions and your proposed schedule and management plan for this Project

• Describe your quality control plan, safety plan and dispute resolution management approach.

• Describe the types of reports or other written documents will be provided and the frequency of reporting.

Proposer will include samples of reports and documents if appropriate.

3.4 CRITERION 3 – SCHEDULE

• Provide a detailed schedule for mowing, general preventative maintenance, including milestones, from the notice to proceed date through the life of the contract. All work to be charged TSU must be outlined and itemized in your proposed schedule -- without fail.

• Provide reasoning, in this section, for any modifications or alterations your firm anticipates making to the recommended project schedule.

3.5 CRITERION 4 – REFERENCES

Provide a comprehensive list of ALL school projects or similar projects completed or begun within the last 5 years, with contact information, along with a project description. Identify in the reference list which projects this team has performed collectively. The Owner reserves the right to check additional references beyond those provided in the submittal. Please provide name of contact, telephone number and email address.

3.6 CRITERION 5: Fee Structure

Detailed fee proposals shall include the following:

✓ Lump sum fee for the 1st year for all scheduled mowing and tree trimming.

✓ Detailed statement of work.

✓ Confirmation that all scope items from the original RFP will be addressed.

✓ Any exclusions with explanations.

✓ Breakout of fee by phase.

✓ # of hours anticipated.

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✓ # of people anticipated.

✓ Other resources.

✓ Breakout of anticipated reimbursables included in the lump sum fee proposal.

✓ Hourly rates for all personnel involved in the project.

✓ Number of site visits anticipated to complete the work.

✓ Breakout of fees for any non-required scope proposed.

Description of Services Hourly Rate

Tree Pruning

Tree Trimming

Complete Tree, Shrubs, Plant Removal

Tree, Shrubs, and Plant Installation

Stump Grinding and Removal

After Hours or Emergency Services

Air Spade Services

Tree Cabling and Bracing

Tree Protection during Tree Services

Performed

Landscape Design

Total $

The negotiated fee is anticipated to include all costs including reimbursables for the project resulting in a “lump sum” format contract.

If the apparent winner’s fee exceeds the Owners budget and if subsequent negotiations with the apparent winner are unsuccessful, the Owner reserves the right to negotiate with the next highest-scoring candidate.

End of Section III

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SECTION IV

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

5.1 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The solicitation process for this RFP will proceed according to the following schedule:

EVENT DATE

Issue RFP December 12, 2025

Walkthrough and pre-bid meeting December 16, 2025

Deadline for Submission of Questions December 19, 2025

Deadline for Submission of Proposals January 15, 2026

Note: Texas Southern University will be closed for the Holiday Break starting December 24, 2025 and will resume work on January 5, 2026.

5.2 REVISIONS TO SCHEDULE

TSU reserves the right to change the dates in the schedule of events above upon written notification through a posting on the Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) and the TSU Purchasing website. It is the responsibility of interested parties to periodically check either website for updates to the RFP prior to submitting a Proposal. The Respondent’s failure to check the website will in no way release the selected Contractor from the requirements of addenda or additional information; nor will any resulting additional costs to meet the requirements be allowed after award(s).

5.3 PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING

There will be a walk through and a pre-bid meeting. Please meet in our General Services Building, room 217 on

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

5.4 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

5.4.1 Submissions of your Proposal: Respondents shall submit three (3) paper copies of the Proposal. Proposal pages should be numbered and contain an organized, paginated table of contents corresponding to the section and pages of the Proposal.

5.4.2 Please submit a flash drive version as well. Please ensure that your entire bid response is on the flash drive as this will be the official version of your bid response, and it will be the only copy we keep on file.

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5.4.3 Format of Proposals - Respondents will be expected to provide the following information in the order and detail prescribed below. Each section should be tabbed accordingly:

Introduction Letter (2-page maximum)

Table of Contents

Tab 1: Criterion 1

Tab 2: Criterion 2

Tab 3: Criterion 3

Tab 4: Criterion 4

Tab 4: Criterion 5

Tab 6: TSU Terms and Conditions

Tab 7: Exhibit A: Execution of Proposal

Tab 9: Addenda

5.4.4 Cost of Preparation: TSU will not reimburse the Respondent for any cost related to its Proposal. The

Respondent is responsible for any expense related to the preparation and submission of its Proposal.

5.4.5 TSU will not consider any Proposal that bears a copyright. Proposals will be subject to the Texas Public

Information Act (PIA), Tex. Government Code, Chapter 552, and may be disclosed to the public upon request.

The Proposal and other submitted information shall be presumed to be subject to disclosure unless a specific exception to disclosure under the PIA applies. If it is necessary for the Respondent to include proprietary or otherwise confidential information in its Proposal or other submitted information, the Respondent must clearly label that proprietary or confidential information and identify the specific exception to disclosure in the PIA.

Merely making a blanket claim the entire Proposal is protected from disclosure because it contains some proprietary information is not acceptable and shall make the entire Proposal subject to release under the PIA.

In order to initiate the process of seeking an Attorney General opinion on the release of proprietary or confidential information, the specific provisions of the Proposal that are considered by the Respondent to be proprietary or confidential must be clearly labeled as described below. Any information which is not clearly identified as proprietary or confidential shall be deemed to be subject to disclosure pursuant to the PIA.

Subject to the Act, Respondents may protect trade and confidential information from public release. Trade secrets or other confidential information, submitted as part of a Proposal, shall be clearly marked at each page it appears. Such marking shall be in boldface type at least 14-point font.

5.5 INQUIRIES / QUESTIONS

5.5.1 All inquiries and questions shall be submitted in writing (in Word format) via email to Mr. Sceffers Ward at procurement@tsu.edu by 12:00 noon Central on Friday, December 19, 2025; the date listed as the deadline for submission of questions as specified in Section 5.1 above.

5.5.2 All inquiries will result in written responses with copies posted to the State of Texas Electronic State Business

Daily and the TSU Purchasing website. If a Respondent does not have Internet access, a copy of all written responses may be obtained through the point of contact listed above.

5.5.3 Except as otherwise provided in this Section, upon issuance of this RFP, other employees and representatives of TSU will not answer questions or otherwise discuss the contents of the RFP with any potential Respondent or its representatives. Failure to observe this restriction may result in disqualification of any subsequent response. This restriction does not preclude discussions unrelated to this RFP.

mailto:procurement@tsu.edu

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5.5.4 If Respondent takes any exceptions to any provisions of this RFP, these exceptions must be specifically and clearly identified by Section in Respondent’s Proposal in response to this RFP and Respondent’s proposed alternative must also be provided in the Proposal. Respondents cannot take a ‘blanket exception’ to this entire

RFP. If any Respondent takes a blanket exception to this entire RFP or does not provide proposed alternative language, the Respondent’s Proposal may be disqualified from further consideration. Any exception may result in the Contract not being awarded to the Respondent.

5.6 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

5.6.1 All Proposals shall be received and documented in the Purchasing Office at TSU prior to the stated deadline date specified in the Schedule of Events above. TSU reserves the right to reject late submittals.

5.6.2 Proposals should be placed in a separate envelope or package and correctly identified with the RFP number and submittal deadline/RFP opening date and time. It is Respondent’s responsibility to appropriately mark and deliver their Proposal response to Greg Williams in the Purchasing Office located in Hannah Hall, suite 333, by the specified date and time. A U.S. Postal Service (USPS) postmark or round validation stamp; a mail receipt with the date of mailing, stamped by the USPS; a dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial carrier; or any other documentation in lieu of the on-site time stamp WILL NOT be accepted.

5.6.3 Telephone, email and facsimile Proposal responses will not be accepted.

5.6.4 Receipt of all addenda to this RFP should be acknowledged by returning a signed copy of each addendum with the submitted Proposal.

5.6.5 The TSU Standard Terms and Conditions is included in this solicitation for your convenience with the thought that you can present it to your legal department, and they can begin reviewing them, in order to speed up possible negotiations.

5.7 DELIVERY OF PROPOSALS

Proposals are commonly shipped to TSU by one of the following methods: U.S. Postal Service, Fed Ex Overnight /

Express Mail, or Hand Delivery (recommended).

** Please instruct your delivery service to avoid delivering your submittal to the University’s Post Office nor our

Warehouse / Central Receiving as this will delay delivery and could ultimately result in your response being late; and consequently rejected. All solicitation responses must be delivered to the TSU Purchasing Office located in room 333 in Hannah Hall, our main administration building.

5.8 PROPOSAL OPENING

4.8.1 Proposals will be opened by the assigned buyer in their office or their department conference room, whichever is most appropriate and available.

4.8.2 All submitted Proposals become the property of TSU after the RFP submittal deadline. The submitted

Proposals and accompanying documentation will not be returned.

4.8.3 Proposals submitted shall constitute a Proposal for a period of ninety (90) days or until selection is made by

TSU, whichever occurs earlier.

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5.9 PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND AWARD

5.9.1 TSU shall award a contract to a Respondent whose Proposal is considered to provide the best value to the State of Texas and Texas Southern University, as defined by Tex. Government Code, Section 2155.074.

5.9.2 A committee will be established to evaluate the Proposals. The committee will include employees of TSU and other persons invited by TSU to participate.

5.9.3 TSU reserves the right to award contract(s) without any negotiations, without a BAFO, and/or TSU reserves the right to not make an award at all.

5.9.4 The Respondent is strongly encouraged to provide its best price in its Proposal because TSU makes absolutely no guarantee that there will be any opportunity to negotiate or provide alternative pricing at any point during the RFP process.

5.9.5 The evaluation committee will determine best value by applying the following criteria and assigned weighted values:

Criteria Weight

Criterion 1: Experience and Qualifications 25%

Criterion 2: Scope of Services 10%

Criterion 3: Schedule 15%

Criterion 4: References 10%

Criterion 5: Cost 40%

5.9.6 The evaluation committee will determine if Best and Final Proposal (BAFO) are necessary. Award of a contract may be made without a BAFO, so you are encouraged to submit your best Proposal initially. A request for a BAFO is at the sole discretion of TSU and if requested, will be extended in writing.

5.9.7 TSU reserves the right to award to multiple vendors and/or make a split award if deemed in the best interest of the University.

End of Section V

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EXHIBIT A

EXECUTION OF OFFER

NOTE: THIS EXHIBIT MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED WITH THE PROPOSAL.

PROPOSALS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THIS EXHIBIT WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. THE

PROPOSAL SHALL BE VOID IF FALSE STATEMENTS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT.

By signature hereon, Respondent certifies that:

All statements and information prepared and submitted in the response to this RFP are current, complete, and accurate.

Respondent has not given, offered to give, nor intends to give at any time hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to a public servant in connection with the submitted response.

Neither Respondent nor the corporation, partnership, or institution represented by Respondent or anyone acting for such respondent, corporation, or institution has (1) violated the antitrust laws of the State of

Texas under Texas Business & Commerce Code, Chapter 15, or the federal antitrust laws; or (2) communicated the contents of this Proposal either directly or indirectly to any competitor or any other person engaged in the same line of business during the procurement process for this RFP.

When a Texas business address shown hereon that address is, in fact, the legal business address of

Respondent and Respondent qualifies as a Texas Resident Bidder under 1 TAC § 111.2.

Under Government Code § 2155.004, no person who prepared the specifications or this RFP has any financial interest in Respondent’s Proposal. If Respondent is not eligible, then any contract resulting from this RFP shall be immediately terminated. Furthermore, “under Section 2155.004, Government Code, the vendor [Respondent] certifies that the individual or business entity named in this Proposal or contract is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that this contract May be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.”

Under Family Code § 231.006, relating to child support obligations, Respondent and any other individual or business entity named in this solicitation are eligible to receive the specified payment and acknowledge that this contract May be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

Under Government Code § 669.003, relating to contracting with an executive of a state agency, Respondent represents that no person who, in the past four years, served as an executive of the Texas

Comptroller of Public Accounts, Texas Southern University or any other state agency, was involved with or has any interest in this Proposal or any contract resulting from this RFP. If Respondent employs or has used the services of a former executive head of Texas Southern University or other state agency, then

Respondent shall provide the following information: Name of former executive, name of state agency, date of separation from state agency, position with Respondent, and date of employment with

Respondent. Respondent agrees that any payments due under this contract will be applied towards any debt, including but not limited to delinquent taxes and child support that is owed to the State of TexaS

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Texas Southern University is federally mandated to adhere to the directions provided in the

President’s Executive Order (EO) 13224, Executive Order on Terrorist Financing – Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism, effective 9/24/2001 and any subsequent changes made to it via cross- referencing respondents/vendors with the Federal General Services Administration’s System for Award Management (SAM), https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ , which is inclusive of the United States Treasury’s Office of Foreign

Assets Control (OFAC) Specially Designated National (SDN) list.

Respondent certifies that the responding entity and…