FWC 22.23-124 FINAL.pdf

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

1875 ORANGE AVE E

TALLAHASSEE, FL 32311-6160

(850) 488-6551

INVITATION TO BID

FWC -22/23-124

FUND MANAGEMENT FOR PANTHER PAYMENT FOR ECOSYSTEM SERVICES PROGRAM

ITB BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Purpose: The intent of this bid is to obtain competitive pricing for fund management services required for the disbursement of payments for ecosystem services to private landowners, per the specifications contained herein. Only responsive and responsible Contractors will be considered for award of this Invitation to Bid (ITB).

Responsive: To be responsive, a bid must constitute a definite, firm, unqualified and unconditional offer to meet all of the material terms of this ITB. Material terms are those that could affect the price, quantity, quality, or delivery. Also included as material terms are those which are clearly identified in this ITB and which, for reasons of policy, must be complied with at risk of bid rejection for non-responsiveness.

Non-Responsive: Any submission that does not comply with this ITB in any way, does not contain all the properly signed forms, supplements or deviates from the Bid requirements or has an incomplete Price Sheet may be considered nonresponsive at the discretion of the Procurement Manager.

Responsible Companies: The Commission shall only consider responsible companies. Responsible companies are those that have, in the sole judgment of the Commission, the financial ability, experience, resources, skills, capability, reliability and business integrity necessary to perform the requirements of the contract. The Commission may also consider references and quality to determine the responsibility of the bid. The Commission reserves the right to use any information, whether supplied through the Bidder’s submission or otherwise obtained, in determining responsibility.

Rejection of Bids: The Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any minor irregularity in the submissions received in response to this ITB. The Commission reserves the right to consider all information, whether submitted or otherwise, to determine responsiveness and responsibility and to reject bids accordingly.

Name of Business: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact Person Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Business Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ___________________________ State: _____________________________ Zip code: ______________________________________

Phone: ___________________________ Fax: _______________________________ Email: ______________________________________

Federal Employer Identification Number: ____________________

The undersigned attest to the following:

“We understand all of the terms, conditions and the specifications contained herein and agree to abide by all of the terms, conditions and the specifications in their entirety.

Authorized Signature (Manual): ________________________________________________________________________________________

Authorized Signature Name (Typed) and Title: __________________________________________________________________________

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 2 of 41

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FWC -22/23-124

SCHEDULE DUE DATE METHOD

Bid Advertised July 14, 2023 Posted on the Vendor Bid System:

http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/mainmenu

Deadline for Questions

Must be received PRIOR to:

July 21, 2023

@ 5:00 PM ET

See Deadline for Questions Clause

Anticipated date for Responses to Written Questions July 26, 2023 Posted on the Vendor Bid System:

http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/mainmenu

SEALED BIDS DUE

(REMEMBER: The bid number should be clearly marked on envelope)

Must be received PRIOR to:

August 4, 2023

@ 12:00 PM ET

Mailing Address:

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission Attn: Purchasing 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160 Submissions are due BEFORE the date and time of the public opening.

Public Bid Opening August 4, 2023

@ 1:00 PM ET

Public Opening Options for Attendance:

-In Person- 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, FL 32311-6160

-Teleconference- Conference call phone number:

1.888.585.9008 Conference room number: 218-721-199

Anticipated Date of Intended Award August 9, 2023 Posted on the Vendor Bid System:

http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/mainmenu http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/main_menu

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 3 of 41

GENERAL CONDITIONS

FWC -22/23-124

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC or Commission) mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The Commission administers six (6) major programs including habitat and species conservation, freshwater fisheries management, law enforcement, marine fisheries management, hunting and game management and fish and wildlife research.

A Bidder submitting a bid shall be registered in the MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) system and where required, the Sunbiz system prior to the bid opening. Business entities which must be on file with Sunbiz include the following foreign and domestic entities: Corporations for and not for profit, Limited Liability Companies (LLC), Limited Partnerships (LP) including Limited Liability Limited Partnerships (LLLP), and organizations doing business under a fictitious name (DBA). A Bidder may not be considered for an award, if not registered in the MFMP and Sunbiz system. The Bidder’s registration address and federal employer identification (FEID) number should match the Bidder’s address and FEID number listed on the Bidder Acknowledgment form (page 1).

Certified Minority-owned, Woman-owned and Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, as certified by the State of Florida Office of Supplier Diversity, are encouraged by the Commission to participate in the bidding process.

Bids from Bidders shall include all necessary equipment to complete the job. The bidder is required to supply all specified documentation when submitting a bid for this project.

Please note:

• The terms “Contract,” “Agreement” and “Purchase Order” are used interchangeably in the document.

• The terms “Commodities” and “Goods” are used interchangeably in the document.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PUR 1000 and PUR1001 are hereby incorporated by reference. PUR1000 and PUR1001 can be found at the Department of Management Services website at the following link:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purc hasing_pur_forms

The following terms and conditions take precedence over the PUR1001 and PUR1000 forms where applicable. The Commission objects to and shall not consider any additional terms or conditions submitted by a Bidder or Contractor, including any appearing in documents attached as part of a Bidder’s response.

In signing and submitting its bid, a Bidder agrees that any additional terms or conditions, whether submitted intentionally or inadvertently, shall have no force or effect. Failure to comply with terms and conditions, including those specifying information that must be submitted with a bid, shall be grounds for rejecting a bid.

The terms and conditions of Attachment A, Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, are hereby incorporated into this solicitation. Any contract resulting from this solicitation will include the terms and conditions of this solicitation and the terms and conditions contained in Attachment A.

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 4 of 41

PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Sarah Pegram sarah.pegram@myfwc.com

ESTIMATED BUDGET

The Commission has an estimated budget for this project of $200,000.00.

TERM

The contract will be effective one year upon issuance of Purchase Order.

If circumstances constituting Force Majeure have occurred, or if anything occurs beyond the Contractor’s control, the Contractor shall submit an extension request in writing. The Project Manager and Contract Manager will review the extension request and if they determine it is justified, will forward to the Bid Request Inbox (bidrequest@myfwc.com) for procurement review and approval/disapproval.

RENEWAL

The Commission has the option to renew this Contract on a yearly basis for a period up to two (2) years after the initial Contract period upon the same terms and conditions contained herein. Pursuant to Sections 287.057(1)(a)2., and 287.057(1)(a)3., Florida Statutes (F.S.), each Bidder shall supply a price for each year that a contract may be renewed. Evaluation of bids shall include consideration of the total cost of the contract, including the total cost for each renewal year, as submitted by the Bidder.

Exercise of the renewal option is at the Commission’s sole discretion and shall be conditioned, at a minimum, on the Contractor’s satisfactory performance of this Contract and is subject to the availability of funds. The Contractor if it desires to exercise this renewal option will provide written notice to the Commission no later than thirty (30) days prior to the Contract expiration date. The renewal term shall require written approval from the Commission’s Procurement Manager.

SUBCONTRACTS

Subcontracting IS NOT permitted pursuant to the Terms and Conditions of the Purchase Order.

DIVERSITY

The Commission is committed to supporting Florida’s diverse business industry and population through ensuring participation by minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises in the economic life of the state. The State of Florida Mentor Protégé Program connects minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises with private corporations for business development mentoring. We strongly encourage contractors doing business with the State of Florida to consider this initiative. For more information on the Mentor Protégé Program, please contact the Office of Supplier Diversity at (850) 487-0915 or osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com.

FWC encourages diversity in its procurement program and requests that all subcontracting opportunities afforded by this solicitation enthusiastically embrace diversity. The award of subcontracts should reflect the vast array of citizens in the State of Florida. Bidders can visit the Office of Supplier Diversity website for information on certified business enterprises that may be considered for subcontracting opportunities.

mailto:bidrequest@myfwc.com?subject=Extension%20Request https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program mailto:osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 5 of 41

VERBAL INSTRUCTION PROCEDURE

Bidders may not consider any verbal instructions as binding upon the Commission. No negotiations, discussions, or actions shall be initiated or executed by the Bidder as a result of any discussion with any Commission employee. Only those communications from the Commission that are in writing, may be considered as a duly authorized expression on behalf of the Commission.

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS

Any questions from Bidders that require an official FWC answer concerning this project shall be submitted in writing to the Procurement Manager. Questions must be received no later than the date and time specified in the Calendar of Events (Page 2). Questions may be sent via email with the solicitation number in the subject line. It is the responsibility of the bidder to confirm receipt of questions if needed.

If questions are received, an addendum will be issued and shall be posted on the Vendor Bid System (http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/main_menu).

LIMITATION ON BIDDER CONTACT DURING SOLICITATION PERIOD

Bidders to this solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the Commission posting the notice of intended award, (i.e., the 72-hour posting period excludes Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays) any employee or officer of the executive or legislative branch concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the Procurement Manager or as provided in the solicitation documents. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response.

BIDDER SPECIFICATION INQUIRIES

If the specifications of this Invitation to Bid (ITB) could restrict potential Bidder competition, the Bidder has 72 hours within which to request to the Commission that the specification(s) be changed. The Procurement Manager must receive the written request within 72 hours after the posting date of the ITB.

Requested changes to the Commission’s specifications shall include the Bidder’s concerns regarding restricting competition, provide detailed justification, and provide recommended changes to the specification(s). A Bidder’s failure to request changes by the prescribed date and time shall be considered to constitute the Bidder’s acceptance of the Commission’s specifications.

The Commission shall determine what change(s) to the ITB is acceptable to the Commission. If accepted, the Commission shall issue an addendum reflecting the change(s) to the ITB, which shall be posted to the Vendor Bid Advertisement System (http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/main_menu).

It is up to the bidder to ensure that everything is included as required by the Commission’s Purchasing Office. It is not the Commission’s responsibility to mail or fax any forms to a potential Contractor. Bid packet information may also be requested from the Commission’s Purchasing Section by calling (850) 488- 6551. Please have bid number and Bidder information available when requesting any information.

ADDENDUMS

If the Commission finds it necessary to supplement, modify or interpret any portion of the specifications or documents or answer any Bidder questions during the ITB period an addendum shall be posted on the Vendor Bid System internet site. Each Bidder is responsible for monitoring the Vendor Bid System website (http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/main_menu) for new or changing information relative to this procurement.

http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs/vbs_www.main_menu http://www.myflorida.com/apps/vbs/vbs_www.main_menu

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 6 of 41

The Commission bears no responsibility for any delays, or resulting impacts, associated with a Bidder’s failure to obtain the information made available through the Vendor Bid System.

BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGMENT

In order for this bid to be valid, the bid must be completed in its entirety, signed by the Bidder and returned, as part of the bid or the bid will be rejected. By affixing your signature to the ITB Bidder Acknowledgement Form (page 1), the Bidder hereby states that the Bidder has read all bid specifications and conditions and agrees to all terms, conditions, provisions, specifications, and is currently licensed to do business within the State of Florida, if required by State or Federal Law, for the services or commodities the Bidder will provide the Commission under these bid specifications.

REFERENCES

Each prospective Bidder shall provide a minimum of three (3) references for similar projects completed.

Current contact names and phone numbers shall be included with the bid package. See the attached references form for more detail.

IDENTICAL TIE BIDS

Preference shall be given to businesses with drug-free workplace programs. If two (2) or more bids which are equal with respect to price, quality, and service are received by the State or by any political subdivision for the procurement of commodities or contractual services, a bid received from a business that certifies that it has implemented a drug-free workplace program shall be given preference in the award process.

Contractors must complete the Identical Tie Bid / Drug Free Workplace form (Attachment B) provided and return it with their bid.

SUPPORTING/SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The Commission requires that bidders submit all required technical, specification, and other supporting information with their bid, so that a detailed analysis and determination can be made, by the Contract Manager that the product/service offered meets this ITB’s specifications and that other requirements of this ITB have been met. However, provided a bid meets the requirements for a definite, firm, unqualified, and unconditional offer, the Commission reserves the right to request supplemental information from the bidder after the bids have been opened to ensure that the products/services offered completely meet this ITB’s requirements. The requirement for such supplemental information will be at the reasonable discretion of the Commission and may include the requirement that a bidder will provide a sample product(s) so that the Commission can make a first-hand examination and determination.

A bidder's failure to provide this supplemental information or the product sample(s), within the time set by the Commission, will cause the Commission to consider the Contractor non-responsive and reject the Contractor’s bid.

CONFIDENTIALITY/PUBLIC RECORDS LAW

Bidders are cautioned that Florida law generously defines what constitutes a public record and grants broad rights of public access to those records; see, for example, section 119.07, F.S. If a Bidder believes that its response contains information that is confidential or exempt from disclosure under Florida Law, the Bidder shall clearly segregate and mark that information (for example, stamp each page "Confidential" and place it in an envelope marked "Confidential") and briefly describe in writing the grounds and specific legal citations for claiming exemption from the public records law. If after the notice of intended decision or thirty (30) days after bid opening, whichever is earlier, the Commission receives a public record request related to the solicitation, the Commission will provide copies of public records that are not exempt to the

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 7 of 41 requester. The Commission will endeavor to provide notice to the Bidder of all public records requests received related to documents provided by the Bidder that were marked pursuant to this paragraph. In no event shall the Bidder hold the Commission or any of its employees or agents liable for disclosing, or otherwise failing to protect the confidentiality of, information submitted in response to this solicitation.

MAILING INSTRUCTIONS

All bids shall be submitted in a SEALED ENVELOPE addressed to:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Attn: Purchasing 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160.

The envelope shall be plainly marked on the outside with: BID NUMBER, DATE AND TIME OF THE BID

OPENING.

THE COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPENING OF ANY ENVELOPES THAT ARE NOT PROPERLY

MARKED.

PLEASE NOTE: The Commission’s official business hours of operation are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ET, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays. Selecting delivery services, such as next day first delivery, may result in attempted delivery prior to opening or closing, and the Commission will not be available to accept those deliveries. THE COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LATE SUBMISSIONS DUE TO COMPLICATIONS

RELATED TO SELECTED DELIVERY SERVICES.

SOLICITATION PUBLIC OPENING

The public opening of this bid will be conducted at the date, time and method specified on the Calendar of Events (Page 2). BIDS RECEIVED AFTER THE SPECIFIED DATE AND TIME WILL BE REJECTED.

Any person with a qualified disability shall not be denied equal access and effective communication regarding any bid/proposal documents or the attendance at any related meeting or bid/proposal opening. If accommodations are needed because of a disability, please contact the Purchasing Section at (850) 488-6551 at least three (3) workdays prior to the opening.

AWARDED BID/INSPECTION

The Commission will award the bid to the responsive, responsible bidder who submits the lowest bid price.

If deemed necessary, an interview with the bidder by the Contract Manager may be required before the bid is awarded.

The Commission reserves the right to inspect the prospective Contractor’s materials and background record prior to making an award of the Contract. If the Contract Manager determines the lowest bidder does not have sufficient experience, equipment, etc. to meet the specifications of this ITB, the Commission reserves the right to reject the bidder and evaluate the next lowest bidder.

POSTING OF BID TABS

Bid Tabulations with Contractors identified as awarded bidders will be posted electronically as Agency Decisions on the Department of Management Services Vendor Bid System as a Public Notice. The Agency Decision may be viewed at http://vbs.dms.state.fl.us/vbs/main_menu, and will remain posted for a period of

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 8 of 41

72 hours. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3)(b), F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

Awarded Bidders are instructed not to proceed until a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice is given to the Contractor by the Commission. A company or person who proceeds prior to receiving a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice from the Commission does so without a contract and at their own risk.

Sealed bids, proposals, or replies received by an agency pursuant to a competitive solicitation are exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution until such time as the agency provides notice of an intended decision or until thirty (30) days after opening the bids, proposals, or final replies, whichever is earlier.

SCOPE CHANGES AFTER CONTRACT EXECUTION

The Commission shall provide written notice to the successful bidder thirty (30) days in advance of any Commission required changes to the technical specifications and/or scope of service that affect the successful bidder’s ability to provide the service as specified herein. Any changes that are other than purely administrative changes will require a change order.

FWC CONTRACT MANAGER

The FWC employee identified as the Contract Manager shall perform the following on behalf of the FWC:

• review, verify, and approve receipt of services/deliverables from the Contractor;

• submit requests for change orders/amendments/renewals, if applicable;

• review, verify, and approve invoices from the Contractor; and, if applicable, complete the

Certificate of Contract Completion form; and

• maintain an official record of all correspondence between the Commission and the Contractor and forward the original correspondence to the Procurement Manager for the official file.

DELIVERABLES

The following services or service tasks are identified as deliverables for the purposes of the subsequent Contract:

a. Performance of all services set forth in the Scope of Work.

b. Submission of all invoicing, supporting documentation, Corrective Action Plans and reports.

GUARANTEE

If products do not comply with the specifications contained herein, the Contractor shall replace the product(s), or the purchase price shall be refunded. The refund or the delivery of the replacement product(s) shall be made within thirty (30) days following the Contract Manager’s notification to the Contractor that the original product(s) was non-compliant. Costs of returning the original product(s) will be the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0100-0199/0119/Sections/0119.07.html

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 9 of 41

PERFORMANCE BOND

A Performance Bond shall be required from the Contractor by the Commission for this project. Prior to commencing any work, and within ten (10) days after issuance of a Purchase Order, the Contractor shall furnish a Performance Bond in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the total contract price to ensure full and complete performance of the contract to the attention of the Contract Manager. The bond must state on its front page: the name, principal business address, and phone number of the Contractor, the Surety, the Commission’s full name, the Purchase Order assigned to the project by the Commission, and a description of the property being improved with a general description of the project. Please note: A Notice to Proceed will not be issued until after the required bond has been received.

The Bond shall be issued from a reliable Surety Company acceptable to the Commission, licensed to do business in the State of Florida and signed by a Florida Licensed Resident Agent. Such a bond shall be accompanied by a duly authenticated power of attorney evidencing that the person executing the bonds on behalf of the Surety had the authority to do so on the date of the bond. The cost of the Performance Bond shall be borne by the Contractor.

In lieu of a Performance Bond, The Commission may prior approve an alternate form of security in the form of a Cashier’s check, Official bank check or Money order in the amount of the bond. The alternative form of security shall be for the same purpose and be subject to the same conditions as those applicable to the Performance Bond.

Work shall not begin before the Commission receives the Performance Bond. Failure to provide a Performance Bond may be grounds to find the Contractor in default, which could include cancellation of the contract, and/or the Contractor’s removal from the State’s approved Contractor list for future solicitations.

AUTHORIZED COMPENSATION

It is understood and agreed that all compensation under this ITB is specifically limited to the Contractor’s bid price accepted by the Commission, and to the specific procedure for payment established in this ITB and the Purchase Order executed pursuant to it. The Commission is not liable for any costs, fees, expenses or any other compensation whatsoever incurred or charged by the Contractor, other than the bid price paid for the work specifically described in the Scope of Work, which work is actually accomplished and invoiced by the Contractor subsequent to the Commission’s notice to proceed (or other notice to begin work). Thus, the Commission is not liable for any costs incurred or charged by the Contractor in anticipation of responding to, or performing work described in, this ITB including, but not limited to, equipment or personnel procured by the Contractor in anticipation of such work. The Commission is not responsible to the Contractor for any loss or damages resulting from circumstances unforeseen at the time of publication of this ITB including, but not limited to, those resulting from a “force majeure”.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL REQUIREMENT

All corporations seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting a bid, be on file with the Department of State in accordance with provisions of Chapter 607, F.S.; similarly, partnerships seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting such bid, have complied with the applicable provisions of Chapter 620, F.S. For further information on required filing and forms, please go to the following sites: http://sunbiz.org or http://dos.myflorida.com.

USE OF CONTRACT BY OTHER STATE AGENCIES AND ELIGIBLE USERS

As provided in Chapter 60A-1.045, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), and Section 287.042(16), F.S., other State of Florida agencies may purchase from the resulting contract of this ITB, provided that the http://www.sunbiz.org/ http://dos.myflorida.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 10 of 41

Department of Management Services has determined the contract’s use is cost effective and in the best interest of the State, and with the Contractor’s consent.

Other State of Florida governmental entities and eligible users may also request of the Contractor to be able to use this contract. If the Contractor agrees to other entities to utilize this ITB contract, such agencies shall coordinate their use of this contract with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in order to reduce scheduling conflicts.

CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

The bidder is required to examine carefully the conditions and specifications of this bid and to be thoroughly informed regarding any and all requirements of the conditions and specifications.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 11 of 41

SCOPE OF WORK

FWC -22/23-124

FUND MANAGEMENT FOR PANTHER PAYMENT FOR ECOSYSTEM SERVICES PROGRAM

PURPOSE

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is responsible for the management, conservation, and recovery of wildlife in Florida, including the Federally Endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi). The Commission’s panther management objectives include utilizing incentives for maintaining panther habitat on private lands and supporting natural range expansion. Providing payments for private landowners will encourage protection of critical corridors for panther range expansion and maintenance of valuable panther habitat.

The Commission’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is establishing a program to provide payments to private landowners for maintaining quality panther habitat on their land. The Division has a need for fund management services to administer program funds to eligible applicants.

Services are primarily required in Collier, Hendry, and Lee counties but may extend to other nearby areas south of the Caloosahatchee River.

1. QUALIFICATIONS

1.1 The Commission is seeking organizations with prior experience managing and disbursing funds for wildlife and/or habitat conservation programs. Experience working with landowners on wildlife conservation or range management issues in Florida is preferred. (Attachment C)

1.2 The Contractor shall have the ability to establish and maintain, for the life of this Contract, a financial account for program funds. Program funds shall be reimbursed by the Commission upon invoice.

1.3 The Contractor shall be capable of disbursing funds to eligible program applicants. Applicant eligibility shall be determined by the Commission based on a biological assessment of panther habitat quality.

2. REQUIREMENTS

2.1 The Contractor shall provide personnel and expertise to manage and disburse funds to eligible applicants in coordination with the Commission. Personnel needed to accomplish the tasks in this Scope of Work may include a single employee with all the appropriate skills or more than one employee with a combination of skills.

2.2 Disbursement of payments for private landowners shall occur throughout the Contract period as needed.

2.3 The Contractor shall disburse funds to eligible program applicants within 10 business days of MOU between the Commission and the program applicant.

2.3.1 The Contractor shall provide the Commission with monthly reports detailing disbursements.

2.3.2 Disbursement shall occur only with prior approval of the Commission and in amounts determined by the Commission at the time of disbursement.

2.3.3 Disbursement is expected to occur at variable rates depending on habitat quality and program enrollment, respectively.

2.3.4 Payment values will be based on a pre-determined ranking system for applicants that varies based on the level of panther habitat quality present.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 12 of 41

2.4 The Contractor shall charge no more than an overhead multiplier of 0.10.

2.5 The Contractor shall maintain accurate records and file financial paperwork as required by applicable municipal, state, and federal laws and regulations. The Contractor will also complete other reports/forms as needed, following assignment from the Commission.

3. TIME FRAME

3.1 The Contractor shall provide disbursement funds to eligible applicants for the duration of the service period as budget and funding allows.

3.2 Fund disbursement needs will vary throughout the period of service depending on program enrollment. Each individual landowner will receive an annual payment according to MOU conditions.

3.3 The Contractor shall request reimbursement from the Commission quarterly.

4. FINANCIAL CONSEQUENCES

4.1 If the Contractor does not disburse funds within ten (10) business days, the Commission’s payment will be reduced by ten (10) percent of the agreed upon overhead multiplier for each additional week and each instance disbursement is delayed.

REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

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PRICE SHEET

FWC -22/23-124

CONTRACTOR SHALL NOT ALTER THE PRICE SHEET IN ANY WAY.

Price quoted shall not contain any Federal or State sales or use taxes. The bidder recognizes that the State of Florida, by virtue of its sovereignty, is not required to pay taxes on services, goods and/or equipment purchased incident to such service. Quoted price shall include all necessary items to complete the project.

ALL ITEMS SHALL BE BID OR THE BID WILL BE REJECTED. THE BID WILL BE AWARDED TO

THE RESPONSIVE, RESPONSIBLE BIDDER THAT SUBMITS THE LOWEST TOTAL PRICE.

PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 287.057(1)(a)1. AND 287.057(1)(a)2., F.S., EACH CONTRACTOR SHALL

SUPPLY A PRICE FOR EACH YEAR THAT A CONTRACT MAY BE RENEWED (SEE RENEWAL

CLAUSE).

INITIAL YEAR MULTIPLIER: _______________________________

RENEWAL YEAR 1 MULTIPLIER: _______________________________

RENEWAL YEAR 2 MULTIPLIER: _______________________________

TOTAL MULTIPLIER: _______________________________

BY SIGNING BELOW, I ATTEST THAT I HAVE READ THE ENTIRE BID AND AGREE TO FURNISH

THE SERVICE AT THE PRICE QUOTED ABOVE. I HEREBY AFFIRM I HAVE NOT BEEN IN ANY

AGREEMENT OR COLLUSION AMONG BIDDERS IN RESTRAINT OF FREEDOM OF COMPETITION.

Contractor: _______________________________

Address: _________________________________

Signed: ___________________________________

Print Name: ______________________________

Title: ____________________________________

City/State/Zip: ____________________________

Phone: ___________________________________

Fax: _____________________________________

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 14 of 41

REFERENCES

FWC -22/23-124

A minimum of three (3) references from persons or firms for whom the bidder has performed similar jobs as per the specifications in this bid must be supplied with the bid. The firms and/or contact persons should be available between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If any reference is not available as stated above, this may be cause for rejection of the Bidder’s bid. Provide a description (scope of work) of each job.

NAME OF COMPANY: ___________________________________________________________________________

CONTACT PERSON: _____________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP: ________________________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE NUMBER: ________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS: _____________________________

JOB DATE: _____________________________________________________________________________________

DESCRIPTION (SCOPE OF WORK): ______________________________________________________________

NAME OF COMPANY: ___________________________________________________________________________

CONTACT PERSON: _____________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP: ________________________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE NUMBER: ________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS: _____________________________

JOB DATE: _____________________________________________________________________________________

DESCRIPTION (SCOPE OF WORK): ______________________________________________________________

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 15 of 41

NAME OF COMPANY: ___________________________________________________________________________

CONTACT PERSON: _____________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP: ________________________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE NUMBER: ________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS: _____________________________

JOB DATE: _____________________________________________________________________________________

DESCRIPTION (SCOPE OF WORK): ______________________________________________________________

CONTRACTOR NAME

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 4.18.2022 FWC #-22/23-124, Page 16 of 41

ATTACHMENT A

FWC -22/23-124

FLORIDA FISH & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

PURCHASE ORDER TERMS & CONDITIONS

Last Updated: May 9, 2023

Section 1. PURCHASE ORDER.

A. Composition and Priority.

The Contractor agrees to provide commodities or contractual services to the Commission within the manner and at the location specified in the Purchase Order, and any attachments to the Purchase Order. These Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, whether generic or specific, shall take precedence over any inconsistent or conflicting provision in the State of Florida, General Contract Conditions, PUR 1000. Additionally, the terms of the Purchase Order supersede the terms of any and all prior agreements with respect to this purchase.

B. Initial Term.

Unless otherwise specified, the Purchase Order begins on the date of issuance. Contractual services or commodities to be provided by the Contractor shall be completed by the date specified on the Purchase Order end date.

Section 2. PERFORMANCE.

A. Performance Standards.

The Contractor agrees to perform all tasks and provide deliverables as set forth in the Statement of Work and attachments to the Purchase Order. The Commission shall be entitled at all times, upon request, to be advised as to the status of work being done by the Contractor and of the details thereof.

Coordination shall be maintained by the Contractor with representatives of the Commission, or of other agencies involved in the project on behalf of the Commission.

B. Performance Deficiency.

If the Commission determines that the performance of the Contractor is unsatisfactory, the Commission may notify the Contractor of the deficiency to be corrected, which correction shall be made within a time frame specified by the Commission. The Contractor shall provide the Commission with a corrective action plan describing how the Contractor will address all issues of Purchase Order non‐performance, unacceptable performance, and failure to meet the minimum performance levels, deliverable deficiencies, or Purchase Order non‐compliance. If the corrective action plan is unacceptable to the Commission, the Contractor will be assessed a non‐performance retainage equivalent to ten (10) percent of the total invoice amount or as specified in the contractual documents.

The retainage will be applied to the invoice for the then‐current billing period. The retainage will be withheld until the Contractor resolves the deficiency. If the deficiency is subsequently resolved, the Contractor may invoice the Commission for the retained amount during the next billing period. If the Contractor is unable to resolve the deficiency, the funds retained will be forfeited.

C. Contractor Responsibilities.

The Contractor agrees that all Contractor employees, subcontractors, or agents performing work under the Purchase Order shall be properly trained technicians who meet or exceed any specified training qualifications. Upon request, the Contractor shall furnish a copy of technical certification or other proof of qualification. All employees, subcontractors, or agents performing work under the

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Purchase Order must comply with all security and administrative requirements of the Commission.

The Commission may conduct, and the Contractor shall cooperate in, a security background check or otherwise assess any employee, subcontractor, or agent furnished by the Contractor. The Commission may refuse access to, or require replacement of, any personnel for cause, including, but not limited to, technical or training qualifications, quality of work, change in security status, or non-compliance with the Commission’s security or other requirements. Such refusal shall not relieve the Contractor of its obligation to perform all work in compliance with the Purchase Order. The Commission may reject and bar from any facility for cause any of the Contractor’s employees, subcontractors, or agents.

D. Assignment.

The Contractor shall not sell, assign or transfer any of its rights, duties or obligations under the Purchase Order without the prior written consent of the Commission. In the event of any assignment, the Contractor remains secondarily liable for performance of the Purchase Order, unless the Commission expressly waives such secondary liability. The Commission may assign the Purchase Order with prior written notice to the Contractor.

E. Damages to State Property.

Any damages to state property (e.g., structures, roads, culverts, fences, trees, or other natural resources) caused by the Contractor while working on this project shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to remedy, as determined by the Commission. The Contractor shall be responsible for the conduct of all Contractor personnel at all times while on the job site.

Should any historical or cultural artifacts be uncovered, the Contractor shall immediately halt work and notify the Commission’s Contract Manager. Please note: The State Archaeologist has the power to halt work if he or she has reason to believe artifacts are being disturbed.

F. Independent Contractor.

The Contractor shall perform as an independent contractor and not as an agent, representative, or employee of the Commission. The Contractor covenants that it presently has no interest and shall not acquire any interest that would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of services required. Each party hereto covenants that there is no conflict of interest or any other prohibited relationship between the Contractor and the Commission. The Contractor agrees to include this provision in all its subcontracts under the Purchase Order.

G. Commission Rights to Undertake or Award Supplemental Contracts.

The Contractor agrees that the Commission may undertake or award supplemental contracts for work related to the Purchase Order. The Contractor and its subcontractors shall cooperate with such other contractors and the Commission in all such cases.

Section 3. PAYMENT AND FEES.

A. Payment.

The Contractor will be paid upon submission of properly certified invoice(s) to the Commission after delivery and acceptance of commodities or contractual services is confirmed in writing by the Commission.

B. Invoicing.

Invoices may be submitted electronically to the Commission’s designated Contract Manager, as identified in this Purchase Order. The Contractor acknowledges that the Commission’s Contract Manager shall reject invoices lacking documentation necessary to justify invoiced expenses.

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C. Invoices, Continued.

All invoices shall be processed in accordance with Section. 215.422, Florida Statutes (F.S.), and Rule 69I-24, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), upon receipt of a proper invoice and approval and inspection of goods or services. The Commission shall record the date of receipt of an invoice on the date on which a proper invoice is first received at the place designated by the Commission. Approval and inspection of goods or services shall take no longer than five (5) working days unless the bid specifications, purchase order, or contract specifies otherwise. Invoices must be legible and shall contain the items below in detail sufficient for a proper audit.

• The invoice number

• The date of the invoice

• “Bill To” information, including address

• The vendor’s name and payment remittance address

• The purchase order number

• The Contractor’s Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security Number

(SSN)

• Date(s) of service (beginning date – ending date)

• Invoices for commodities must provide a clear description of the item(s), number of units and cost per unit. Numerical code descriptions alone will not be accepted.

• Invoices for services must provide a clear description of the specific deliverables that must be provided and accepted prior to payment.

• Invoices for fixed unit rate agreements must show the number of units and cost per unit.

• Invoices for agreements paid out on a reimbursement basis or a fixed rate for a specific time period (e.g., quarterly, monthly, etc.) must identify the deliverables provided.

D. Payment Timeframe.

Section 215.422, F.S. provides that agencies have five (5) working days to inspect and approve goods and services, unless applicable solicitation specifications or this Purchase Order specify otherwise.

With the exception of payments to health care providers for hospital, medical, or other health care services, if payment is not available within forty (40) days, measured from the latter of the date the invoice is received or the goods or services are received, inspected and approved a separate interest penalty as described in Section 215.422, F.S., will be due and payable in addition to the amount authorized for payment. Interest penalties less than one dollar ($1.00) will not be paid unless the Provider requests payment. A Vendor Ombudsman has been established within the Department of Financial Services and may be contacted at (850) 413-5516, or by calling the Department of Financial Services Consumer Hotline at 1-800-342-2762.

E. MyFloridaMarketPlace Fees.

The following language is included pursuant to rule 60A‐1.031, F.A.C.:

The State of Florida, through the Department of Management Services, has instituted MyFloridaMarketPlace, a statewide eProcurement system pursuant to Subsection 287.057(22), F.S. Payments issued by Agencies or Eligible Users to Vendors for purchases of commodities or contractual services are subject to Transaction Fees, as prescribed by rule 60A-1.031, Florida Administrative Code, or as may otherwise be established by law. Vendors shall submit monthly reports required by the rule. All reports shall be subject to audit. Failure to pay Transaction Fees

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F. Annual Appropriation.

Pursuant to Section 287.0582, F.S., if this Purchase Order binds the Commission for the purchase of services or tangible personal property for a period in excess of one (1) fiscal year, the State of Florida’s performance and obligation to pay under this Purchase Order is contingent upon an annual appropriation by the Legislature. The Parties hereto understand that this Purchase Order and any renewal thereof is not a commitment to future appropriations but is subject to appropriation and authority to spend provided by the Legislature. The Commission shall be the final authority as to the availability of funds for this Purchase Order, and as to what constitutes an “annual appropriation” of funds to complete this Purchase Order. If such funds are not appropriated or available for the agreed-upon purpose, such event will not constitute a default on behalf of the Commission or the State. The Commission’s Contract Manager shall notify the Contractor in writing at the earliest possible time if funds are not appropriated or available.

G. Travel.

Travel expenses are not reimbursable unless specifically authorized in writing, and shall be reimbursed only in accordance with Section 112.061, F.S.

H. Automated Clearing House (ACH) To make transaction fee payments, contractors can register for debit ACH at https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/myfloridamarketplace/mfmp_ vendors/vendor_forms and download the ACH form. Complete the ACH form and submit it electronically (per the instructions on the form) to the Department of Management Services to process.

Note: Registering for ACH can take up to fourteen (14) days.

I. Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) The Contractor agrees to enroll in Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), offered by the State’s Chief Financial Officer, within thirty (30) days of the date the last Party has signed this Purchase Order.

Copies of the Authorization form and a sample blank enrollment letter can be found on the vendor instruction page at https://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/AA/Vendors. Questions should be directed to the State of Florida’s EFT Section at (850) 413-5517. Once enrolled, invoice payments will be made by EFT.

J. Return or Recoupment of Funds – Overpayments to Contractor.

The Contractor shall return to the Commission any overpayments due to unearned funds or funds disallowed pursuant to the terms of this Purchase Order that were disbursed to the Contractor by the Commission. In the event that the Contractor or its independent auditor discovers that overpayment has been made, the Contractor shall repay said overpayment within forty (40) calendar days without prior notification from the Commission.