EVALUATION_CRITERIA.docx

This evaluation criteria document outlines the scoring methodology for the City of Lakeland's Request for Proposals for Drug and Alcohol Testing Services Citywide, a solicitation designed to provide comprehensive drug and alcohol screening services across all City departments and work locations in compliance with the Florida Drug-Free Workplace Act. The evaluation process is based on "best value to the City" rather than price alone, with proposals assessed across five primary categories. Qualifications, Experience and Licenses (30 points) evaluates the firm's prior experience providing evidence-based drug and alcohol testing services, coordination with City staff, experience serving agencies with more than 1,800 employees, and credentials of key personnel. References (30 points) assess the firm's past performance and reputation. Understanding and Approach (20 points) examines the firm's knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, expertise in pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, and steroid testing services, familiarity with required protocols including 24-hour turnaround times and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry confirmation, and demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with City staff. Capacity (20 points) evaluates the firm's ability to mobilize resources, maintain available personnel and equipment, provide 24-hour on-call availability including holidays, meet 24-hour turnaround requirements, conduct continuous staff training, and maintain appropriate insurance coverage.

The Fee Structure category (100 points) represents the largest component of the evaluation, indicating that pricing is a significant factor despite the best-value selection approach. The total evaluation is based on 100 points across all categories combined with the fee structure scoring. The City reserves the right to award the contract based solely on which proposal provides the greatest overall value, as determined by the Procurement Official in consultation with the selection committee. Under the Florida Interlocal Cooperation Act, the resulting contract may be extended to other qualified public agencies throughout Florida, potentially expanding the scope and value of the awarded contract.