ESBD_File_345112_802-24-42880 TPWD Printing Service TPWD Code Books.pdf

INVITATION FOR BID – SERVICES

SEND INVOICE TO: RETURN BIDS TO BIDDER MUST SIGN BELOW

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ATTN: Accounts Payable 4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744

Purchasing.BidBox@tpwd.texas.gov, FAX 512-389-4677, or return to:

TPWD - Purchasing and Contracting

4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744

BID DUE DATE 2:00 PM January 4, 2024

REQUISITION NO. 802-24-42880

By signing this bid, bidder certifies that if a Texas Address is shown as the address of the bidder, bidder qualifies as a Texas bidder as defined in Title 34 TAC Rule 20.32(68).

FAILURE TO MANUALLY SIGN THE BID ABOVE WILL

DISQUALIFY BID.

AWARD NOTICE: The State reserves the right to make an award on the basis of low line item bid, low total of line items, or in any other combination that will serve the best interest of the State and to reject any and all bid items in the sole discretion of the State.

Item Description Class/Item 966-72 Quantity Unit of Measure Unit Price Extension

Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) is soliciting bids for a blanket contract for printing and binding services of the TPWD Code Book (currently the 2024-2025 biennium). All books shall be compiled, formatted, printed, and delivered in accordance with the attached specifications dated December 2023. Include all freight charges in unit prices.

1. Paperback Soft Cover (Unit price shall include freight charges)

487 EACH $ $

2. Hard Cover (Unit price shall include freight charges)

15 EACH

3. Spiral Bound Cover (Unit price shall include freight charges)

83 EACH

4. eBook* If license allows the use of more than one user please specify.

Comments:

1 EACH

5. Print Edition and eBook Combination*

Comments:

1 EACH

*TPWD requests pricing for the eBook option and hard copy/eBook combination.

Based on these prices, TPWD will determine if an award will be made on these options and quantity of each.

Project Completion Schedule, in calendar days, after receipt of order. ___________ Calendar Days (ARO)

Offered by a Historically Underutilized Business certified by CPA.

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE DATE

SHOW BID OPENING

DATE AND REQUISITION

NUMBER ON SEALED BID

ENVELOPE AND SHOW

RETURN ADDRESS OF FIRM

BIDDER AGREES TO

COMPLY WITH ALL

CONDITIONS OF THIS BID.

BID F.O.B. AGENCY RECEIVING ROOM

UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED BELOW

DESTINATION IF DIFFERENT THAN ABOVE

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Warehouse / Building D 4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744

See instructions for Texas ID Number in General Terms & Conditions, Paragraph 1.10.

Bidder Must Fill in

TEXAS ID NUMBER

Name of Firm Street Address City–State-Zip Telephone No.

Email address

FAILURE TO

MANUALLY

SIGN WILL

DISQUALIFY BID

mailto:Purchasing.BidBox@tpwd.texas.gov

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 2 of 35

IFB_Services_042023

PREFERENCES: See Appendix 21 of the State of Texas Procurement and Contract Management Guide regarding preferences.

Check below to claim a preference under Title 34 TAC Rule 20.38

□ Goods produced or offered by a Texas bidder that is owned by a Texas resident service-disabled veteran

□ Goods produced in Texas or offered by a Texas bidder that is not owned by a Texas resident service-disabled veteran

□ Agricultural products grown in Texas

□ Agricultural products offered by a Texas bidder

□ Services offered by a Texas bidder that is owned by a Texas resident service-disabled veteran

□ Services offered by a Texas bidder that is not owned by a Texas resident service disabled veteran

□ Texas Vegetation Native to the Region

□ USA produced supplies, materials or equipment

□ Products of persons with mental or physical disabilities

□ Products made of recycled, remanufactured, or environmentally sensitive materials including recycled steel

□ Energy Efficient Products

□ Rubberized asphalt paving material

□ Recycled motor oil and lubricants

□ Products produced at facilities located on formerly contaminated property

□ Products and services from economically depressed or blighted areas

□ Vendors that meet or exceed air quality standards

□ Recycled or Reused Computer Equipment of Other Manufacturers

□ Foods of Higher Nutritional Value

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT PURCHASER:

JUDY AHRENS, CTCD CTCM- PHONE 512-718-3703

Email: purchasing.bidbox@tpwd.texas.gov

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 3 of 35

Solicitation 802-24-42880 Specifications for Printing and Binding Services for 2024-2025 TPWD Code Book

1) INTRODUCTION: Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) is soliciting bids for a blanket contract for printing and binding services of the TPWD Code Book (currently the 2024-2025 biennium). All books shall be compiled, formatted, printed, and delivered in accordance with the following specifications. Include all freight charges in unit prices.

2) TERM OF CONTRACT: Contract shall commence upon date of award and continue through August 31, 2026.

unless sooner terminated under the terms of this contract.

a) Contract Renewals: This contract may be renewed for up to one (1) additional two (2) year period, provided both parties agree in writing to do so, based on funds availability and vendor performance. Any extension shall be at the same terms and conditions, plus any approved changes. If the contract is extended under this option, the contractor shall be given written notification of the period in which the services shall occur after being determined by the TPWD.

b) Contract Extensions: In the event that the contract(s), if any, resulting from the award of this IFB shall terminate or be likely to terminate prior to the making of an award for a new contract for the identified products and/or services, TPWD may, with the written consent of the awarded supplier(s), extend the contract for a period of time as may be necessary to permit TPWD continued supply of the identified products and/or services (not to exceed twelve month extension period). Any extensions shall be at the same terms and conditions, plus any approved changes.

3) PRICE ADJUSTMENTS:

a) Extension Period Pricing: A price escalation may be allowed upon renewal provided the Contractor notifies

TPWD Contracting Section, in writing, prior to renewal. Failure to comply with these instructions may be grounds for disallowance of a price escalation as allowed herein.

b) Price Decreases: Price decreases will be allowed at any time. Contractor shall apply price decreases as soon as practicable following their determination. Any price reductions passed on to other customers shall be correspondingly offered at the same ratio to TPWD. Contractor’s failure to promptly notify TPWD of such industry-wide price decreases may constitute a breach of contract and the contract may be canceled. TPWD reserves the right to award any canceled contract to the next lowest responsive respondent or re-bid, whichever is in TPWD’s best interest.

4) SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2024-2025 TPWD CODE BOOK SHALL MEET OR EXCEED THE FOLLOWING:

a) Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, supervision, and any other need necessary or incidental to perform editing, printing, and binding services as specified herein.

b) TPWD will not provide text or electronic files for use in production of the 2024-2025 TPWD Code book. The Contractor shall provide all editorial services, shall produce an accurate Table of Contents and Index, and shall provide composition and formatting consistent with the samples available for viewing as per section 4.3 below.

c) Sample of book: Sample of previous printing of 2023-2024 TPWD Law books are available to view at TPWD Headquarters located at 4200 Smith School Rd, Austin, TX 78744.

d) E-Book: Contractor shall provide prices for the eBook option and hard copy/eBook combination in their bid.

Based on these prices, TPWD will determine if an award will be made on these options and quantity of each.

i) E-Book option shall be a searchable, electronic version of the printed book that can be read on a computer.

ii) If license allows the use of more than one user, Contractor shall specify how many users are allowed per license.

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 4 of 35

e) TPWD reserves the right to inspect Respondent’s facility prior to award.

f) TPWD reserves the right to reject any response if, after inspection, it is determined that the Respondent lacks the experience, expertise, quality control, or equipment to properly produce the work.

g) All work shall be of good to excellent quality workmanship including ink that does not smudge when rubbed.

Poor quality workmanship may be grounds to reject the entire order and have it reprinted at the Contractor’s expense.

h) TPWD reserves the right to make changes until the final pre-press proof (blueline or equal) is approved by TPWD. Alterations due to Contractor’s error will be at Contractor’s expense.

i) Samples: Respondent shall provide the following items with their response. Responses will be evaluated for their usability features to determine the best value for the state. Failure to provide an item may result in rejection of the response.

i) Similar work produced by the editorial staff and equipment to be used. The sample(s) shall be illustrative of the composition style to be employed. Upon contract award, contractor may make arrangements to pick up the sample(s) provided. TPWD will not be responsible for returning samples to respondents.

ii) Formatting samples

iii) Quality of paper to be used in production

iv) Spiral binding material

j) ESTIMATED PAGE COUNT: The estimated page count of the TPWD code book is seven hundred and twenty-five (725) pages. This estimate is based on the number of pages contained in the 87th Legislature version of the TPWD code book.

k) PRINTING: Text shall be accurate and current through the most recent posting of Called Session of the 88th Legislature

l) TPWD Law Code Books shall:

i) Include the full and complete text of the Parks and Wildlife Code, State of Texas 2024-2025 (TPW Code).

ii) Include an accurate Table of Contents of the TPW Code, expanded to the Title, Subtitle, and Chapter level.

iii) Include Open Meetings (Government Code, §§ 551.001 to 551.146) and Public Information (Government Code, §§ 552.001 to 552.376) in the Miscellaneous Codes section.

iv) Include the portions of other Codes (Miscellaneous Codes), as indicated below.

v) Include an accurate Table of Contents of the Miscellaneous Code, providing a section title, and identifying the source code and section number(s) included.

vi) Include a table identifying articles of the TPW Code affected by the 88th Legislature (all sessions.)

vii) Include an Index to the TPW Code, referencing keywords to section numbers.

viii) Include an Index to the Miscellaneous Codes, referencing keywords to source code and section number(s).

ix) Be printed on recycled stock.

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 5 of 35

x) Be printed using inks that do not rub off, and paper of sufficient weight, brightness, and opacity as to not detract from the usability of the product.

m) Miscellaneous Codes: The following sections from other Codes shall be included in the Books:

i) Agriculture and Wildlife Research Program (Agriculture Code, §§ 50.001 to 50.004)

ii) Regulation of Aquaculture (Agriculture Code, §§ 134.001 to 134.031)

iii) General Disease and Pest Control (Agriculture Code, §§ 161.001, 161.041)

iv) Code Construction Act (Government Code, §§ 311.001 to 311.036)

v) Use of Dedicated Revenue (Government Code, § 403.095)

vi) Open Meetings (Government Code, §§ 551.001 to 551.146)

vii) Public Information (Government Code, §§ 552.001 to 552.376)

viii) Bonds for Parks and Fairground Facilities in Certain Municipalities and Counties (Government Code, §§

1435.001 to 1435.054)

ix) Public Securities for Municipal Utilities, Parks, or Pools (Government Code, §§ 1502.001 to 1502.074)

x) Obligations for Municipal Parks, Recreational Facilities, and Airports (Government Code, §§ 1508.001 to 1508.208)

xi) Litter Abatement Act (Health and Safety Code, §§ 365.001 to 365.035)

xii) Predatory Animals and Animal Pests - Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies (Health and Safety Code, §§ 825.001 to 825.010, 825.031)

xiii) Vending Facilities Operated by Blind Persons (Labor Code, §§ 355.001 to 355.016)

xiv) Local Government Code (Local Government Code, §§ 235.022, 235.042, 240.902, 253.001, 331.010)

xv) Surveys (Natural Resources Code, §§ 21.001 to 21.014)

xvi) Use and Maintenance of Public Beaches (Natural Resources Code, §§ 61.001 to 61.254)

xvii) Antiquities Code (Natural Resources Code, §§ 191.001 to 191.174)

xviii) Tax Code (Tax Code, §§ 151.801)

xix) Taxes on Sales and Use of Boats and Boat Motors (Tax Code, §§ 160.001 to 160.122)

xx) Texas Coastal Waterway Act (Transportation Code, §§ 51.001 to 51.014)

xxi) Transportation Code (Transportation Code, §§ 504.606, 504.618, 504.627, 504.644, 504.656, 504.661)

xxii) Enforcement (Water Code, §§ 7.001 to 7.006, 7.109, 7.141 to 7.203)

xxiii) Pollution Laws (Water Code, §§ 26.121 to 26.137, 26.215 to 26.2171)

xxiv) Sand and Gravel Rights Retain in State (Vernon’s Civil Statues, art 5414a)

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 6 of 35

xxv) Public Rights in Waters and Gravel Exempt for validation of Deeds to Public Beds (Vernon’s Civil Statutes, art. 5414a-1)

xxvi) Legislative Department (Constitution Art. III, §49-e)

xxvii) Administrative Procedure (Government Code, § 2001.001 to 2001.902) xxviii) Agency actions affecting small businesses (Government Code, § 2006.001 to 2006.016)

xxix) Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act (Natural Resources Code, §§ 40.001 to 40.304)

xxx) Hazardous Substances Spill Prevention and Control Act (Water Code §§ 26.261 to 26.267)

xxxi) Solid Waste Disposal Act (Health and Safety Code (§§ 361.001 to 361.992)

xxxii) Conservation Easements (Natural Resources Code §§ 183.001 to 183.006)

n) Proofs:

i) Contractor shall provide laser proofs of all pages prior to printing. TPWD will inspect proofs for layout, format, appropriateness of indexing, completeness of table of contents, and other design related features.

ii) Contractor will wait for TPWD to provide written approval prior to any production run.

iii) TPWD WILL NOT approve the textual content of the work.

iv) Contractor is responsible for assuring all entries are accurate and current.

v) Contractor shall bear all expenses for delivery and communications concerning proofs.

o) BINDERY: Bindings shall be effective, preventing pages from detaching while allowing pages to be turned easily. Bindings shall not obscure text or images. Collate and bind in the following three (3) formats:

p) Soft Bound Format:

i) Text Stock: Paper ranging from a 27# financial opaque to a 45# text, or better. Lack of opacity will be a factor in evaluation of usability. All stocks must be recycled content papers.

ii) Cover Stock: 65# Matte or equivalent. Outside cover shall be embossed laminate.

iii) Ink: Text - 1/1 black; Cover- 2/0 PMS 462 brown and black.

iv) Pages shall be laid out in a two-column format.

v) Page layout, headings, indentation, fonts, typefaces, use of bold, italics and underlining, and any other formatting feature shall generally contribute to the usability of the product.

vi) Trim size: 7.5 inches x 9.75 inches, approximately.

q) Hard Bound Format:

i) Same as “Soft Bound” above, except having a hard binding cover. Size of cover may exceed trim size listed above by a reasonable amount.

ii) Cover Fabric: Tan Buckram or equivalent

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 7 of 35

iii) Cover Foils: Gold, red, and black.

r) Spiral Bound Format:

i) Text Stock: 45# text, or better. Lack of opacity will be a factor in evaluation of usability. All stocks must be recycled content papers.

ii) Cover Stock: 10 pt. coated two (2) sides, board, or equivalent. Outside cover is embossed laminate.

iii) Ink: Text 1/1 black, Cover - 2/0 PMS 462 brown and black.

iv) Columns: Pages shall be laid out in a one-column format.

v) Page layout, headings, indentation, fonts, typefaces, use of bold, italics and underlining, and any other formatting feature shall generally contribute to the usability of the product.

vi) Trim size: Approximately 8.5 inches x 11 inches.

vii) Spiral: Continuous plastic spiral shall be black in color and of sufficient diameter to allow easy manipulation of pages. Approximate spiral binding dimensions: 10 inches x 1-3/4 inches. Wire must be attached to prevent pages from being removed. Spiral bound books delivered with crushed or deformed bindings will be rejected.

s) Packaging:

i) Box in new plain brown cartons of good construction and appropriate bursting strength for shipping and mailing. Note: This specification applies to the re-shipping or mailing of individual boxes by TPWD after receipt of the Contractor’s shipment. Each individual box must be adequate for shipping or mailing.

ii) Boxes shall comply with relevant U.S. Postal Service regulations.

iii) Boxes shall not exceed 9 ½ inch width x 13 inch depth x 12 ½ inch height, except as may be required to accommodate the Spiral Bound version.

iv) Boxes shall be well sealed and not exceed thirty-five (35) pounds each when packed.

v) Different versions of the book shall be boxed separately.

vi) Each box, except the last, shall contain the same number of books (for a given version).

vii) Label each carton as shown in Attachment A – Example Packaging Label.

5) MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

a) A contract shall be awarded ONLY to a contractor who is experienced in providing the services contained herein. Awarded contractor shall meet the following minimum qualifications:

b) Shall have been engaged in the business of providing the specified services for a minimum of five (5) years.

Recent start-up businesses do not meet the requirements of this solicitation.

c) Complete Exhibit A – Company Profile, and Exhibit B - Past Projects with Corresponding References, and return with bid.

d) References must be verifiable by phone or email within ten (10) working days of bid evaluation.

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 8 of 35

i) Note: A start up business is defined as a new company that has no previous operational history or expertise in the relevant business and is not affiliated with a company that has that history of expertise.

6) CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS:

a) Contractor shall provide all labor, equipment, supervision, and any other necessary and incidental materials to complete the project.

7) PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

a) Contractor will be responsible for the performance of any contractual obligations that may result from an award based on this IFB and shall not be relieved due to non-performance of any or all subcontractor(s). By submitting a proposal, the Respondent commits to providing the goods and services required in the IFB. The successful Respondent(s) will be required to abide by TPWD policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines relevant to the execution of this contract.

b) TPWD will measure and evaluate the Contractor’s and/or subcontractor’s performance under the contract. If the Contractor or subcontractor does not meet any standards for deliverables and/or performance incentives (if applicable), TPWD may impose remedies if the Contractor or subcontractor(s) fails to meet their responsibilities as outlined in the IFB and the terms and conditions of the contract. All services and deliverables under the contract shall be provided at an acceptable quality level and in a manner consistent with acceptable industry standards, customs, and practices. In the event TPWD deems that the Contractor’s performance does not meet an acceptable quality level of service and deliverables, TPWD may seek or negotiate remedies with the Contractor.

c) TPWD will monitor vendor performance. Failure to provide services in accordance with requirements specified herein and the resulting contract(s) and adherence to the TPWD Terms and Conditions may be considered, by TPWD, as unsatisfactory performance by the contractor. An unsatisfactory performance may result in a negative vendor performance report, or cancellation of the contract or both.

8) TPWD RESPONSIBILITIES:

a) TPWD will designate a Contract/Project Manager upon contract award.

b) TPWD will furnish no material, labor, equipment, or facilities unless otherwise provided for in this contract.

9) ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Where found to be in the best interest of TPWD, this contract may be amended in writing to provide additional services, provided that such additional services are within the original scope and intent of the contract. For example, additional clearing services are needed during the term of contract. In such cases, the contractor shall provide a written quotation for performing the additional work. TPWD contracting section will execute an amendment for additional services, no additional services shall be performed without a fully executed amendment to the contract.

10) QUANITIES: Quantities listed are projected order quantities. TPWD reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities prior to press. TPWD will not accept less than quantity requested. TPWD reserves the right to accept or refuse any overrun copies.

11) INQUIRIES:

a) CONTACT: All requests, questions, or other communications about this Solicitation shall be made in writing to TPWD’s Purchasing Department, addressed to the following person:

Judy Ahrens, Purchaser Phone 512-718-3703 Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Fax 512-389-4677

Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744 Purchasing.BidBox@tpwd.texas.gov

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 9 of 35

b) CLARIFICATIONS: TPWD will allow written requests for clarification of this Solicitation. Questions may be faxed or e-mailed to the point-of-contact listed above. Questions should be submitted in the following format:

a) Reference the Solicitation number; b) Reference the Section number, Page number, Paragraph number, and Text of passage being questioned; and c) Question.

c) PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS: Upon issuance of this solicitation, TPWD, its representative(s), or partners will not answer questions or otherwise discuss the contents of this Solicitation with any potential Respondent or their representative(s), except for the written inquires described in Section (b) above.

Attempts to ask questions by phone or in person will not be allowed or recognized as valid. Failure to observe this restriction may disqualify Respondent. Respondent shall rely only on written statements issued through or by TPWD’s purchasing staff. This restriction does not preclude discussions between affected parties for the purposes of conducting business unrelated to this solicitation.

12) DELIVERY AND ACCEPTANCE:

d) Project Completion Delays: If delay is foreseen, Contractor shall give written notice to TPWD. Default in promised Completion without accepted reasons or failure to meet specifications authorizes TPWD to purchase services of this contract elsewhere and charge any increased costs for the services, including the cost of re-soliciting, to the Contractor.

e) Acceptance: All services performed will be subject to acceptance inspection upon completion. Acceptance inspection will not take more than five (5) working days, weather permitting. Vendor will be notified within this time frame of any units not delivered in full compliance with the purchase order specifications.

13) BID RESPONSE INSTRUCTIONS:

a) Bid Submission:

i) Submission Deadline: All bids shall be received, and time stamped at TPWD prior to 2:00 PM Central Time on the “Bid Opening” date specified on the IFB Cover Page (page 1). Late bids will not be considered under any circumstance and will be returned.

ii) General Format: Respondent shall submit bid response, signed dated and completed.

iii) Bid Delivery: Bids may be returned via email to Purchasing.BidBox@tpwd.texas.gov, mail, hand-delivery or fax to 512-389-4677.

iv) Bids returned by mail or hand delivery should be placed in a sealed envelope and correctly identified with IFB number, submittal deadline/opening date and time. Bids returned by fax should include a fax cover sheet correctly identified with IFB number, submittal deadline/opening date and time. It is the Bidder’s responsibility to appropriately mark and deliver the bids to TPWD by the specified date.

v) Respondents are responsible for all costs of bid preparation.

b) Bid Content: Below is a summary of required and requested information. Bids submitted without this information will be evaluated accordingly. TPWD reserves the right, in its sole judgment and discretion, to waive minor technicalities and errors in the best interest of the state.

i) Bid Form: Respondent must submit the IFB form, signed, dated and completed. Failure to submit this information will result in disqualification of bid.

ii) Exhibit A: Company Profile

iii) Exhibit B: Past Projects with Corresponding References mailto:Purchasing.BidBox@tpwd.texas.gov

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 10 of 35

iv) Samples:

(1) Similar work produced by the editorial staff and equipment to be used. The sample(s) shall be illustrative of the composition style to be employed. Upon contract award, contractor may make arrangements to pick up the sample(s) provided. TPWD will not be responsible for returning samples to respondents.

(2) Formatting samples

(3) Quality of paper to be used in production

(4) Spiral binding material

c) Response Period: Responses shall be binding for a period of sixty (60) business days from bid due date. No other costs, rates, or fees shall be payable to the Successful Respondent unless expressly agreed upon in writing by TPWD.

14) EVALUATION AND AWARD:

a) An award will be made on an all or none basis. Only responses submitted by the bid opening, with required submittal documents and meeting qualifications will be considered. Failure to submit the required information may be cause for rejection of the bid response. TPWD reserves the right to waive informalities and minor irregularities in bids received.

b) TPWD reserves the right to consider respondent qualifications, equipment, facility, references; conduct studies and other investigations as necessary to evaluate any response; request additional relevant information;

disqualify bid based on unsatisfactory reference checks, reports, and records of service.

c) Award: TPWD will award a Contract to the respondent whose quote is considered to be the Best Value to

TPWD, price and other factors considered. The following factors may be used to evaluate bids:

i) Lowest Price

ii) Ability, Qualifications and Experience - Meeting or Exceeding the Requirement

iii) Delivery / Service Schedule

iv) Past Performance

15) INVOICING AND PAYMENT: The following procedures apply to invoicing and payment in addition to those listed in the General Terms and Conditions, Para. 9:

a) Contractor to submit invoice(s) to: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Accounts Payable, 4200 Smith

School Road, Austin, Texas 78744.

b) Invoices must show:

i) Name of Contractor exactly as shown on the contract, Texas Payee Identification Number (PIN), and correct "Remit to" address

ii) Name of receiving entity

iii) Contract/purchase order number

iv) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price, extended price of each item

v) Total price

vi) Discount, if applicable, extended and deducted to arrive at a NET TOTAL for invoice

vii) Attach supporting documentation, if required

c) Payment:

i) Contractor will be paid for the services performed as invoiced. If another payment mechanism is agreed to by the parties, then contractor will be paid in accordance with the agreement approved by the parties.

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 11 of 35

ii) Payment normally will be made to the Contractor within 30 days after receipt of a properly prepared invoice or the receipt of and the acceptance of services ordered, whichever is later. State agencies are required by state law to pay properly submitted invoices within 30 days or the Contractor may charge a late payment fee established by law.

iii) Payments for services purchased with state appropriated funds will be made through state warrants issued by the Comptroller of Public Accounts. Payments by qualified ordering entities will be made through the entities’ local payment system.

d) Electronic payment may be available through some ordering entities. Contact Accounts Payable at 512-389-

4833 for additional information.

16) BIDDER AFFIRMATION

a) Bidder 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 connection with the submitted bid.

b) Pursuant to Texas Government code, Title 10, Subtitle D, Section 2155.004(a), the bidder has not received compensation for participation.

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 12 of 35

EXHIBIT A – COMPANY PROFILE

Respondent shall use this exhibit (or a reasonable facsimile) to clearly demonstrate how they meet the requirements set forth in this IFB. This form may be modified as needed to comply with the requirement to document company information. Failure to return this exhibit (or a reasonable facsimile) may result in the proposal being considered non-responsive.

Company Name:

Number Years in Business: Number of Employees:

Principal place of business (Corporate Headquarters):

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Facility responsible for servicing the contract:

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Contact Person regarding company’s proposal submission to the solicitation:

Name / Title:

Phone Number: Fax Number:

Email Address:

Personnel who will be responsible for the management and day-to-day operations of the services solicited in this IFB.

Name/Title:

Indicate if your company or any of its subsidiaries filed or met criteria for bankruptcy within last five years.

__Yes __No If yes, explain.

Indicate if your company or any of its subsidiaries has been involved in litigation within last five years. If yes, explain.

__Yes __No If yes, explain.

Description of firm's background, history, and qualifications: (You may attach additional page for this section.)

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 13 of 35

EXHIBIT B – PAST PROJECTS WITH CORRESPONDING REFERENCES

Respondent Name: ____________________________________________

Respondents shall use this exhibit (or reasonable facsimile) to provide a minimum of three (3) references for jobs completed within the last five (5) years. The references shall illustrate recent experience successfully completing work of a similar nature and scope as the work described in this IFB. Attention: Do NOT use TPWD staff or past work performed for TPWD as a “reference” in Exhibit E. This form may be modified as needed to comply with the requirement to document company information. Failure to return this exhibit (or a reasonable facsimile) may result in the proposal being considered non-responsive. TPWD reserves the right to check references prior to award. Any negative responses received may be grounds for disqualification of the proposal.

REFERENCE 1:

Company Address:

Contact Name/Title/Phone:

Service Period:

Brief Description of Project

REFERENCE 2:

Contact Name/Title/Phone:

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 14 of 35

REFERENCE 3:

Contact Name/Title/Phone:

REFERENCE 4:

Contact Name/Title/Phone:

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 15 of 35

ATTACHMENT A – EXAMPLE PACKAGING LABEL

IFB No. 802-24-42880 Page 16 of 35

GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

MARCH 2022

(ITEMS BELOW APPLY TO AND BECOME A PART OF THE CONTRACT)

Any Contract awarded as a result of this solicitation will contain the General Terms and Conditions listed below in this Section. Subcontractors are also obliged to comply with these provisions.

1. DEFINITIONS: As used throughout this solicitation, the following terms have the meaning set forth below.

All other terms have the meaning set forth in Webster’s II New College Dictionary.

1.1. Bidder: An individual or entity that submits a bid. The term includes anyone acting on behalf of the individual or entity that submits a bid, such as an agent, employee and representative. See Respondent.

1.2. Contractor: The individual, corporation, company, partnership, firm, or organization that has to furnish the materials and has to perform the work as stated in the solicitation.

1.3. ESBD: The Electronic State Business Daily, which is available online at http://www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd .

1.4. Gov’t Code: The Texas Government Code.

1.5. Owner: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, an agency of the State of Texas.

1.6. Party/Parties: Either the TPWD and Respondent separately or collectively.

1.7. Respondent: Any person or Vendor who submits a Bid/Proposal/Offer in response to this solicitation.

1.8. Services: Includes the use of labor, materials, facilities, equipment, and any other need that is necessary or incidental to the successful completion of the Contract.

1.9. Subcontractor: Any supplier, distributor, Contractor, person, or firm furnishing to the Contractor, materials or services necessary or incidental to the performance of the Contract between TPWD and Contractor.

1.10. TAC: The Texas Administrative Code, which is the publication for administrative rules.

1.11. Texas Identification Number: A unique 11-digit number assigned by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. When a Payee first contracts with a state agency, that Payee must provide either a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) or a Social Security number (SSN). The Texas Identification Number (TIN) is based on this number. (Note: If Respondent does not have a TIN, or does not know their TIN, they may list their EIN or SSN on the “Texas Identification Number” line of the Vendor Information Block of their RFP, RFO, IFB or RFQ response.)

1.12. TPWD: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department acting on behalf of the State of Texas.

2. SPECIFICATIONS:

2.1. The goods/services provided shall be in accordance with the purchase specifications herein. TPWD will decide the answers to all questions that may arise as to the interpretation of the specifications and the quality, or acceptability of goods/services provided. TPWD will decide the rate of progress of the work and the acceptable fulfillment of the goods/service on the part of the Contractor.

2.2. Catalogs, brand names or manufacturer's references are descriptive only, and indicate type and quality desired. Bids/Proposals on brands of like nature and quality will be considered unless advertised under Texas Gov't Code §2155.067. If the Respondent is offering brands other than the references, response should show manufacturer, brand or trade name, and other description of product offered. If Respondent is offering brand(s) other than brand(s) specified, illustrations and complete description of product offered are requested to be made part of the bid. Failure to take exception to specifications or reference data will require Respondent to furnish specified brand names, numbers, etc.

2.3. Unless otherwise specified, items shall be new and unused and of current production.

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2.4. Samples, when requested, must be furnished free of expense to the State. If not destroyed in examination, they will be returned to the Respondent, on request, at Respondent's expense. Each sample should be marked with Respondent's name and address, and requisition number. Do not enclose in or attach response submission to sample.

2.5. The State will not be bound by any oral statement or representation contrary to the written specifications of this Solicitation.

2.6. Manufacturer's standard warranty shall apply unless otherwise stated in the solicitation.

3. AWARD OF A PURCHASE ORDER: Standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions apply. If a conflict exists between the standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions and specific language in this solicitation, the language in the solicitation shall prevail.

3.1. A response to a solicitation is an offer to Contract with TPWD based on the terms, conditions and specifications contained in the solicitation. Responses do not become Contracts unless and until they are accepted through an authorized TPWD designee by issuance of a Purchase Order.

3.2. This procurement will be conducted in accordance with the State Purchasing Act, Title 10, Subtitle D, Chapters 2151 through 2177, of the Texas Gov’t Code (TGC) and TPWD rules. Any Contract resulting from this procurement shall consist of one (1) document. This document will contain all of the rights and duties of the parties extracted from the relevant terms and conditions of this solicitation (including its attachments, exhibits, supplements, and addenda); the successful Contractor’s response; any TPWD request for a Best and Final Offer; and any successful Contractor’s Best and Final Offer, if applicable.

3.3. Best Value – TPWD will be the sole judge of best value. Award will be based on Best Value criteria and may include, but is not limited to:

3.3.1. Best meets the goals and objectives of the solicitation as stated above.

3.3.2. Best meets the quality and reliability of the proposed services.

3.3.3. Effect of the proposed solution on agency productivity.

3.3.4. Provides the most customer focused solution that will best meet the needs of the public.

3.3.5. Experience in successfully providing services in this solicitation.

3.3.6. Past Performance: A Respondent’s past performance will be measured based upon pass/fail criteria in compliance with applicable provisions of Gov't Code §§2155.074, 2155.075, 2156.007, 2157.003, and 2157.125. Respondents may fail this selection criterion for any of the following conditions:

a) The Vendor has a score less than C or Legacy Unsatisfactory in the Vendor

Performance System,

b) Currently under a Corrective Action Plan through the Texas Comptroller of Public

Accounts (CPA),

c) Having repeated negative Vendor Performance Reports for the same reason,

d) Having Purchase Orders that have been cancelled in the previous 12 months for non-performance (i.e., late delivery, etc.).

3.3.7. Contractor performance information is located on the CPA web site at:

www.txsmartbuy.com/vpts. CPA may conduct reference checks with other entities regarding past performance. In addition to evaluating performance through the Vendor Performance Tracking System (as authorized by 34 Texas Administrative Code §20.115), CPA may examine other sources of vendor performance including, but not limited to, notices of termination, cure notices, assessments of liquidated damages, litigation, audit reports, and non-renewals of Contracts. Any such investigations shall be at the sole discretion of CPA, and any negative findings, as determined by CPA, may result in non-award to the Respondent.

4. UNIT PRICES: Respondents must price per unit shown. Unit prices shall govern in the event of extension errors.

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5. FREIGHT: Quote FOB destination, freight prepaid and allowed unless otherwise stated within the specifications.

6. DELIVERY:

6.1. Show number of days required to place material in receiving agency's designated location under normal conditions. Delivery days mean calendar days, unless otherwise specified. Failure to state delivery time obligates Respondent to deliver in 14 calendar days. Unrealistic delivery promises may cause solicitation to be disregarded.

6.2. If delay is foreseen, Contractor shall give written notice to the TPWD. Contractor must keep the TPWD advised at all times of status of order.

6.3. Default in promised delivery (without accepted reasons) or failure to meet specifications authorizes the TPWD to purchase supplies elsewhere and charge full increase, if any, in cost and handling to defaulting Contractor.

6.4. Substitutions: No substitutions permitted without written approval of TPWD.

6.5. Delivery shall be made during normal working hours only unless prior approval has been obtained from ordering agency. Normal working hours are 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM Monday through Friday except State and National holidays.

7. TESTING AND INSPECTION:

7.1. TPWD may test and inspect goods and services purchased under the Contract to ensure compliance with the specifications of this solicitation and the Contract. TPWD may also test and inspect goods and services before they are purchased under the Contract. Authorized TPWD personnel shall have access to the Respondent's place of business for the purpose of inspecting the goods. To the extent practical, TPWD inspections will not disrupt the Respondent's daily operations. Tests shall be performed on samples submitted with the Bid/Proposal or on samples taken from regular shipments. All costs of testing and inspection shall be borne by the Respondent.

In the event the goods tested fail to meet or exceed all conditions and requirements of the solicitation and Contract, the goods will be rejected in whole or in part, at the State's option, and returned to the Respondent or held for disposition at the Respondent's expense. Latent defects may result in cancellation of the Contract at no expense to the state.

7.2. If material fails to meet specifications, the Respondent will be notified by fax, mail, or e-mail. The Respondent will have ten (10) working days after receipt of the notification to remove the rejected material from state property. Material will be removed at the Respondent’s expense. Material not removed in the allotted time period will be disposed by TPWD. The Respondent will be charged for all disposable expenses conducted by TPWD.

8. CHANGES: TPWD may at any time, by a written order, make changes within the general scope of this Contract, in the definition of services to be performed, and the time (i.e., hours of the day, days of the week, etc.) and place of performance thereof. If any such change causes an increase or decrease in the cost of, or the time required for the performance of any part of the services under this Contract, whether changed or not changed by any such order, an equitable adjustment shall be made in the Contract price or time of performance or both and the Contract shall be modified in writing accordingly. Any claim by the Contractor for adjustment under this clause must be asserted within 30 days from the date of receipt by the Contractor of the notification of change, provided, however, that TPWD, if it decides that the facts justify such action, may receive and act upon such claims asserted at any time prior to final payment under this Contract.

Failure to agree to any adjustment shall be a dispute concerning a question of fact within the meaning of the clause of this Contract entitled "Dispute Resolution."

9. INVOICING AND PAYMENT:

9.1 Invoices: In order to receive payment under the Contract, the Contractor must submit an original invoice to TPWD, which will be designated in the Purchase Order as the "Bill To" address. To be a proper invoice that may be accepted and paid, the invoice must include the following information and/or attachments: (1) Name and address of the Contractor. (2) The Contractor's Texas

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Identification Number (TIN). (3) The Contractor's invoice remittance address. (4) The Purchase Order number authorizing the delivery of products or services. (5) A description of what the Contractor delivered, including, as applicable, the time period, serial number, unit price, quantity, and total price of the products and services. If the invoice is for a lease, the Contractor must also include the payment number (e.g., 1 of 36).

9.2 Disputed Invoices: As stated above, the Contractor will receive notice of an error in an invoice submitted for payment by not later than the 21st day after the date the invoice was received by the TPWD. If an invoice dispute is resolved in favor of the Contractor, the Contractor is entitled to receive interest on the unpaid balance of the invoice, beginning on the date the invoice became overdue, pursuant to Gov't Code §2251. 021. If a dispute is resolved in favor of the TPWD, the Contractor shall submit a corrected invoice that must be paid in accordance with Section 2251.021.

The unpaid balance accrues interest if the corrected invoice is not paid by the appropriate date.

9.3 Time and Manner of Payment: Pursuant to Texas Gov’t Code Chapter 2251, payment by TPWD is overdue on the 31st day after the later of: (1) the date the TPWD receives the goods under the Contract; (2) the date the performance of the service under the Contract is completed; or (3) the date the TPWD receives the invoice for the goods or service. Payment by a political subdivision Customer whose governing body meets only once a month or less frequently is overdue on the 46th day after the later event of: (1) the date TPWD receives the goods under the Contract; (2) the date the performance of the service under the Contract is completed; or (3) the date TPWD receives the invoice for the goods or service.

10. PATENTS, TRADEMARKS, OR COPYRIGHTS: Respondent agrees to defend and indemnify the TPWD and State from claims involving infringement or violation of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, or other proprietary rights, arising out of the TPWD's or the State's use of any good or service provided by the Respondent as a result of this solicitation.

11. PROHIBITION ON LOBBYING: The Respondent shall comply with the provisions of a federal law known generally as the Lobbying Disclosure Act, 2 U.S.C. §1601 et seq. By submitting a Bid/Proposal, the Respondent certifies that it shall not and has not used federally appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence any officer or employee of any federal agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any federal Contract, grant, or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. §1352. It also certifies that the Respondent shall disclose any lobbying with non-federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any federal award by completing and submitting Standard Form LLL.

12. ANTI-TRUST AND ASSIGNMENT OF CLAIMS: The undersigned affirms under penalty of perjury of the laws of the State of Texas that (1) in connection with this Response, neither I nor any representative of the Respondent have violated any provision of the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act, Tex. Bus. & Comm Code Chapter 15; (2) in connection with this Response, neither I nor any representative of the Respondent have violated any federal antitrust law; and (3) neither I nor any representative of the Respondent have directly or indirectly communicated any of the contents of this Response to a competitor of the Respondent or any other company, firm, partnership or individual engaged in the same line of business as the Respondent. The successful Contractor hereby assigns to TPWD, any and all claims for overcharges associated with any contract resulting from this solicitation which arise under the antitrust laws of the United States 15 U.S.C.A., Section 1, et seq. (1973), and which arise under the antitrust laws of the State of Texas, Texas Business and Commercial Code Ann. Sec. 15.01, et seq. (1967).

13. DEBTS AND DELINQUENCIES: As required by Gov't Code §2252.903, the Respondent agrees that any payments due under the Contract shall be directly applied towards eliminating any debt or delinquency is has to the State of Texas including, but not limited to, delinquent taxes, delinquent student loan payments, and delinquent child support.

14. DISPUTE RESOLUTION:

14.1. The dispute resolution process provided for in Chapter 2260 of Texas Gov’t Code and TPWD regulations shall be used by TPWD and the Respondent to resolve all disputes arising under this Contract. The Contractor shall comply with such rules, as revised from time to time.

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14.2. If the Contractor's claim for breach of Contract cannot be resolved informally with TPWD, it shall be submitted to the negotiation process provided in Chapter 2260. To initiate the process, the Contractor shall submit written notice, as required by Chapter 2260. The notice shall also be given to the individual identified in the Contract for receipt of notices. Any informal resolution efforts shall in no way modify the requirement or toll the timing of the formal written notice of a claim for breach of Contract required under § 2260.051 of Texas Gov’t Code. Compliance by the Contractor with Chapter 2260 is a condition precedent to the filing of a contested case proceeding under Chapter 2260.

14.3. The contested case process provided in Chapter 2260 is the Contractor's sole and exclusive process for seeking a remedy for an alleged breach of Contract by TPWD if the Parties are unable to resolve their disputes as described above.

14.4. Compliance with the contested case process provided in Chapter 2260 is a condition precedent to seeking consent to sue from the Legislature under Chapter 107, Civil Practices and Remedies Code. Neither the execution of the Contract by TPWD nor any other conduct of any representative of TPWD relating to the Contract shall be considered a waiver of sovereign immunity to suit.

14.5. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Contract to the contrary, unless otherwise requested or approved in writing by TPWD, the Contractor shall continue performance and shall not be excused from performance during the period any breach of Contract claim or dispute is pending under either of the above processes; however, the Contractor may suspend performance during the pendency of such claim or dispute if the Contractor has complied with all provisions of Gov't Code §2251.051, and such suspension of performance is expressly applicable and authorized under that law.

15. FRAUD, WASTE, AND ABUSE: By submitting a Response to this Solicitation, the Respondent represents and warrants that it has read and understood and shall comply with CPA’s Anti-Fraud Policy, found at:

https://comptroller.texas.gov/about/policies/ethics.php, as such Policy currently reads and as it is amended throughout the term of the Contract.

16. NAME CHANGES AND SALES:

16.1. If the Contractor changes its name or is sold to another entity, it must provide written notification to

TPWD. The Contractor, in its notice, shall describe the circumstances of the name change or sale, state its new name, provide the new Tax Identification Number, and describe how the change will impact its ability to perform the Contract.