GREENVILLE_COUNTY_OPEN_SPACE_PLAN.pdf

RFP #24080

Greenville County Issue Date: February 9, 2024

Procurement Services Division Opening Date: March 4, 2024

GREENVILLE COUNTY OPEN SPACE PLAN

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/greenvillecounty

Robert Brewer, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB

Procurement Services Division Director https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/%7bproject.government.code%7d

Greenville County

GREENVILLE COUNTY OPEN SPACE PLAN

I. Introduction II. Public Notice

III. Scope of Work IV. Instructions to Offerors V. Insurance

VI. General Information VII. Evaluation Phases

VIII. Sample Contract IX. Vendor Questionnaire X. Terms and Conditions

Attachments:

A - COG Sub W9

B - Sample Services Agreement

Title: GREENVILLE COUNTY OPEN SPACE PLAN

1. Introduction

1.1. Summary

The intent of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to procure qualified professional consultant services to develop and prepare a comprehensive and community supported open space, recreation and trails expansion plan (Open Space Plan) for Greenville County, SC in furtherance of the 2020 Plan Greenville Comprehensive

Plan and the 2010 Greenville County Comprehensive Greenways Plan. The plan will establish an on-going vision for open space, preservation goals for long-term growth management and sustainability, and an action plan for implementation for the next 10 years including strategic collaborations and community partnerships to leverage resources and expertise, policy recommendations for plan implementation, and a needs analysis for priority capital projects, land acquisitions, trail development, funding estimates and mechanisms.

Additional outcomes of the Open Space Plan shall include high level concept plans, GIS map and data of open space, recreation and trail expansion locations, and a web accessible interactive story map of the planning process and the importance of open space integration and active participation.

The successful consultant will perform the services outlined in this RFP in a timely manner as determined by

Greenville County and the consultant with an estimated completion date for all deliverables by the first quarter of 2025. It is requested that the responding firms use this general timeframe as a template from which to narrow and detail their proposed schedules.

1.2. Background

The County of Greenville is the most populous county in South Carolina, with approximately 552,910 residents and an average annual growth rate of 1.7 percent (2023 est.), and 22.5 percent growth since the 2010 Census. It is the center of the 10 county Upstate region of the state situated along the industrious Interstate 85 corridor between Atlanta and Charlotte. With an estimated Gross Domestic

Product of $40.5 billion in 2022, the County is an economic powerhouse and center of activity in the

Upstate (US Federal Reserve). Coupled with a relative low cost of living, people from all over the world have migrated to the area for economic opportunity and unparalleled quality of life. As a result, the community has seen rapid growth in the last decade with recent projections indicating an additional 206 square miles of urban land area will be added by 2040. Additionally, the residents of Greenville County have become increasingly concerned in recent years about the loss of greenspace and trees throughout the County due primarily to new low-density subdivision developments on the urban fringe.

In an effort to reverse this trend, County Leaders, Planning Staff, and consultants worked to the develop the Plan Greenville County Comprehensive Plan in 2020, which addresses the need for balanced growth with respect to land use policies, calling for preservation of community character while accommodating necessary growth. The community’s preferred “Focused Growth” pattern seeks to reduce urban land consumption rates by 75 percent over the next twenty years. Along with the Comprehensive Plan, Greenville County has recently taken unprecedented steps to improve the County’s land use policies and change the rules of development. The Unified Development Ordinance, a multi-year project to update

Greenville County’s fifty-year-old, one-size fits all development code, is set to be adopted by County

Council in 2024. This newly combined Zoning and Land Development Code seeks to implement many of the goals and objectives outlined in "Plan Greenville County". Among these is the community’s desire to protect and enhance active and passive open spaces throughout the county; the statements below, taken from the Comprehensive Plan, are indicative of this desire:

• Protect the most valuable and vulnerable resources in Greenville County.

• Increase opportunities for recreation and active transportation, including expansion of the

County multi-use trail network.

• Ensure the conservation of abundant natural areas and open spaces as an integral component of workplace development strategies.

• Develop a strong and durable partnership between natural resources.

• Protect tourism, and parks and recreation.

• Identify and protect critical open space, scenic byways, and important rural vistas.

• Protect trees, native vegetation, and wildlife habitat.

• Provide recreational and entertainment choices for all age and ability levels.

• Expand tree canopy through the promotion of tree planting within all new developments or individual properties.

• Protect critical-resource areas such as steep slopes, watersheds, and prime farmland.

• Protect and improve water resources such as rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands.

• Protect trees, native vegetation, and wildlife habitat.

• Protect the character of rural areas.

1.3. Contact Information

Shelvis Gambrell

Buyer

Greenville County Procurement Services Division

301 University Ridge, Suite N2400

Greenville, SC 29601

Email: sgambrell@greenvillecounty.org

Phone: (864) 467-7387

Department:

PARKS ADMINISTRATION

1.4. Timeline

Release Project Date February 9, 2024

Question Submission Deadline February 19, 2024, 5:00pm mailto:sgambrell@greenvillecounty.org tel:(864)467-7387

Proposal Submission Deadline March 4, 2024, 3:00pm

Review of Proposals March 4 - March 18, 2024

Tentative Date of Award March 18, 2024

Contract Negotiations March 18 - April 1, 2024

Issue Notice to Proceed April 1, 2024

2. Public Notice

Greenville County is soliciting sealed electronic proposals in response to GREENVILLE COUNTY OPEN

SPACE PLAN, subject to the conditions and all provisions set forth herein and attached. Sealed proposals will be received through the County’s online procurement portal located at https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/greenvillecounty until Monday, March 4, 2024, 3:00 pm, then publicly opened. The service must be furnished as described and specified herein and submitted to

Greenville County.

All inquiries regarding this proposal shall be submitted via the County’s online procurement Portal, located at https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/greenvillecounty. Please note the deadline for submitting inquiries. All answers to inquiries will be posted on the County’s online procurement Portal.

Offerors may also click “Follow” on this proposal to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the Offeror to check the website for answers to inquiries no later than

Monday, February 19, 2024, 5:00 pm EDT.

3. Scope of Work

3.1. Overview

The purpose of the Open Space Plan is to ensure that growth and development in Greenville County is sustainable and preserves quality of life for existing and future residents by identifying and preserving ecologically sensitive areas, promoting expanded and connected trail systems for alternative transportation corridors, and incorporating connected open spaces in developments. Interested consultants should provide their strategy to help create the Open Space

Plan including the minimum services outlined below and in the more detailed Scope of

Work. Consultants submitting proposals are encouraged to submit recommendations to focus the items listed below based on upon successful experience completing similar efforts. The key objectives of the project are as follows:

A. Research, Data Collection & Analysis: Conduct a thorough inventory and analysis of existing open spaces, recreational facilities and trails. The contractor shall also analyze existing opens spaces and identify opportunities for enhancement or expansion. Open space types include: cultural landscapes (scenic views, connection to water, cultural resources), recreational facilities (parks and trails), ecological areas (critical habitats for wildlife, forest, wetlands, floodplains, and watersheds for water quality).

B. Community & Stakeholder Engagement: Develop a plan for stakeholder engagement including residents, developers, local businesses, and community organizations via public workshops, meetings, and other engagement strategies. A statistically valid survey shall also be conducted to gather community-wide input on desired open space goals, features, locations, priorities and preferred strategies for conservation.

C. Public Outreach & Education: Develop an interactive website and online platform explaining: 1) the importance of open space preservation, ecological benefits, and the project’s objectives and 2) serves as a central hub for project information, updates, and community engagement.

D. Existing & Future Facilities Analysis: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the existing and future level of service for open space, trails, and recreational facilities within the county. Benchmark the county's open space and recreational facilities against industry standards and best practices and develop level of service goals based on community input and growth projections.

E. Prioritize Demand & Opportunities: Consider the diverse open space and recreational needs of the community and identify and prioritize opportunities for open space, trails and recreation projects and include conceptual designs, phasing plans, and potential partnerships. Priorities are not limited to but shall include the development of:

1. Passive recreation opportunities along waterbodies rated safe for recreation by SC DHEC including those along the Saluda River compatible with Anderson County’s new recreational facility;

2. Future Swamp Rabbit Trail expansion that connects existing and future residential areas to workplace areas, transit, and other community assets; and

3. Passive recreation opportunities that supports climate-change, flood resiliency and provides a sense of refuge and stress relief through contact with nature in urban, rural, and suburban areas.

F. Land Use & Zoning Analysis: Review existing Zoning and Land Use Regulations to assess their compatibility with open space integration. Propose appropriate land use and zoning policies to protect open spaces, trails, and recreational areas and implement the Open Space Plan.

G. Final Plan Preparation: Prepare a final open space plan document that synthesizes all findings, recommendations, and implementation strategies. Present the plan to local authorities, stakeholders, and the public for feedback and approval.

3.2. Context

The issuance of this RFP marks a significant step in addressing the evolving needs of the community as outlined in the comprehensive plan. As we navigate the challenges posed by diminishing open space and agricultural lands, it has become imperative to proactively address the demand for greenfield development in the northern and southern parts of the County and ensure equitable access to open space and trails in both the rural and urban areas of the community. In light of these challenges, the

Comprehensive Plan has emerged as a guiding document recognizing the critical importance of preserving natural assets and the adoption of a unified development ordinance (UDO) to align development practices with the intent and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan.

The development of a new UDO underscores the County’s commitment to progressive and sustainable land-use practices and is scheduled to be completed in the Spring of 2024. As stakeholders actively engage in shaping the future of our community, there is a discernible desire to leverage this opportunity to enhance the integration of open space within developments. As such, the County of Greenville recognizes the critical need for:

A. Defining community vision, goals, opportunities, and priorities for open space, recreation, and trails.

B. Benchmarks to fit the unique context and goals of the community.

C. A suite of tools and decision-making strategies for land acquisition and the protection of open space to safeguard the livability, health, and ecological integrity of the community.

The Open Space Plan will inform growth management strategies and development restrictions and serve as a reference point to evaluate development ordinances and proposals.

3.3. Task 1: Confirm Goals & Objectives

The selected consultant shall meet with Greenville County staff to discuss the goals and objectives for the Open Space Plan. This will include a description of the intended purpose of the Open Space

Plan and identification of specific outcomes. The deliverables desired by the County include a memorandum with the refined scope of work including final goals, objectives and project schedule.

3.4. Task 2: Gather and Review Existing Planning, Documents & Mapping

Greenville County staff will provide the consultant with relevant planning documents, base mapping in GIS and any planning work that is ongoing to get familiar with the current state of open space planning in the County. The selected consultant shall also assist Greenville County staff with identifying data needs and collecting and analyzing data to help inform the Open Space Plan. The deliverables desired by the County include base mapping formatted for use in Open Space Planning.

The consultant will create a file share site for the sharing of information which includes:

A. Base mapping materials in GIS to include:

1. Parcel data

2. Flood plain

3. Wetlands

4. Agricultural land

5. Parks and open space

6. Watershed boundaries

7. Tree cover

8. Water features

9. Scenic corridors

10. Historic or cultural sites

B. Existing plans and studies to include:

1. 2020 Plan Greenville Comprehensive Plan

2. 2010 Greenville County Comprehensive Greenways Plan

3. 2023 SC Green Infrastructure Plan

C. Relevant stormwater management plans and studies to include:

1. Greenville County Stormwater Design Manual

2. Stormwater Infrastructure ARPA funded Grants (trails and stream restoration)

D. Greenville County population demographics

E. Greenville County Zoning and Land Development Regulations

3.5. Task 3: Public Outreach

The selected consultant shall develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for public engagement and participation in the development of the Open Space Plan. The public engagement strategy must prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure accountable and appropriate recommendations. The consultant shall identify stakeholders for the public participation process.

A. An advertising and public relations plan to address equity and inclusion in the open space planning process.

B. At a minimum, the public participation process must include:

1. Study Committee – A representative and diverse study committee must be formed and meet with the planning consultant on a regular basis to provide guidance and review of the work.

2. Public Meetings (2 meetings) – At least two public meetings must be held and at least one must be with elected officials.

3. Key Person Interviews – A key person interview is a one-on-one discussion about a specific topic with an individual recognized or designated as a community leader. The Study

Committee will help to determine potential interviewees.

C. Additional public participation:

1. Citizen Survey - A statistically valid survey shall be conducted to identify desired open space goals, features, locations, priorities and preferred strategies for conservation

2. Interactive website and online platform: an online platform shall be developed that serves as central hub for project information, updates, and community engagement and explains the importance of open space preservation, ecological benefits and the projects objectives.

D. Deliverables:

1. Public engagement plan including project schedule, public meeting, and study committee dates

2. Draft and final presentation material and meeting facilitation at public meetings

3. Public meeting and key person interview minutes

4. Synopsis of public information/input gleaned from all public outreach efforts in written and graphic form.

E. County Actions:

1. The County will provide logistics and planning for public meetings including location and public notices

3.6. Task 4: Define Vision, Goals & Opportunities

The selected consultant shall work with the study committee and use the feedback from the community engagement process to create a vision of the future for the protection of open space and related goals and opportunities to protect and expand open space, trails and recreation facilities. The deliverables desired by the County include a draft of vision statement including goals and opportunities.

3.7. Task 5: Facilities and Open Space Inventory and Analysis

The consultant shall conduct a comprehensive analysis of the existing and future level of service goals for an open space, trails and recreational facilities within Greenville County. This analysis will involve an in-depth examination of the current state of open space amenities, trail networks, and recreational facilities, as well as the development of strategic recommendations to meet the evolving needs of the community. The analysis shall evaluate open space and recreation facilities based on the following criteria: quantity, quality, and distribution and access. The deliverables desired by the County include:

A. A comprehensive report summarizing findings, recommendations and a proposed implementation plan for achieving future LOS goals. The comprehensive report shall also include an assessment of equity in access to existing facilities and recommendations for ensuring inclusivity and any disparities in facility distribution.

B. GIS-based interactive maps showcasing the location, key attributes and amenities of existing facilities, cultural landscape features and conservation priorities at parcel level data.

C. Materials for public presentations summarizing the existing and future facilities analysis and engaging visuals to facilitate community understanding and feedback.

3.8. Task 6: Identify and Prioritize Opportunities

Based on the data collected from the public outreach process and the facilities and open space inventory and analysis, the consultant shall identify priority projects to include conceptual designs, phasing plans, and potential partnerships for prioritized projects. The deliverables desired by the

County include:

A. GIS-based interactive maps showing proposed trail connections, open space, and recreation opportunities at parcel level data.

B. A report summarizing priority trail expansion opportunities, recreation projects, and preservation strategies for ecologically significant zones and scenic views.

C. Broad high-level concept designs for priority projects.

3.9. Task 7: Land Use & Zoning Analysis

The consultant shall review existing zoning and land development regulations to assess their compatibility with open space integration and provide recommendations for updates to the zoning codes that promote the integration of open spaces into new developments. The deliverables desired by the County include a memorandum summarizing recommendations for updates to Zoning and Land

Development Regulations that promote the integration of open space into new developments.

3.10. Task 8: Action Plan & Implementation

The consultant shall conduct an analysis of existing funding sources, the adequacy of those funding sources to meet the project’s needs of open space and trails and recommend an overall strategy for the implementation of all aspects of the plan including: a timeline, funding mechanisms, land acquisition strategy, potential partnerships and community collaborations and policy recommendations for administering the open space map. The deliverables desired by the County include an Action Plan including timeline, cost estimates for priority projects, long-term funding mechanism, land acquisition strategy, potential partnerships, community collaborations and policy recommendations for administering the open space map.

3.11. Task 9: Plan Refinement

The consultant shall provide a draft Open Space Plan for review, modification and public outreach. At a minimum, the Open Space Plan shall include the following elements:

A. Executive Summary – Briefly describe the process, priorities, and final recommendations.

B. Purpose, Goals, and Objectives of the plan C. Public Participation

D. Open Space Vision and Goals E. Facilities and Open Space Inventory and Analysis F. Strategies G. Priority Projects H. Financing I. Plan Implementation

The deliverables desired by the County include a draft of the Open Space Plan provided in sufficient time

(as established by the workplan) for review, modification, and public outreach, and finalized graphic and text components for plan inclusion once approved by the Study Committee.

3.12. Task 10: Presentation to Community Stakeholder Groups

The consultant shall provide final presentation of Open Space Plan to the Planning Commission and

County Council. The deliverables desired by the County include materials for public presentation to

County Council and the Planning Commission.

3.13. Task 11: Final Products

The Final Product shall include the following deliverables, provided by the Consultant:

A. High level concept designs.

B. GIS data (parcel data level) and maps.

C. Web accessible document, project data archive, and open space education materials.

D. Publication-ready document that includes maps, photographs, and any pertinent graphics.

4. Instructions to Offerors

4.1. Pre-Proposal Meeting

A Pre-Proposal meeting is not scheduled for this project.

4.2. Pricing

Vendors shall include Fee Schedule which includes include Lump Sum Cost to complete this project, Hourly Rates of staff Involved in project, and any additional fees anticipated.

4.3. Bonding

Bonding will not be required for this project.

4.4. Statement of Qualifications

Vendor shall include the following with their response (proposal shall not exceed a total of 50 pages in length and must be organized with tabbed sections):

A. Overview of company background to include names, resumes, and office locations of key staff that will be assigned to the project, an organizational chart, along with percentage of time devoted to the project including the project manager, and any subcontractors.

B. Corporate/individual qualifications and experiences, including all required forms and certifications.

C. Demonstrated understanding, success, and experience with Open Space Plans (or similar) projects, including implementation, time frames, and costs.

D. Up-to-date reference and contact names for the most recent five similar projects performed by the firm, particularly by staff being assigned.

E. Scope of Work/Task List to demonstrate understanding of the project and project approach, including work plans, identification of key staff members assigned to each work segment, allocation of staff hours (estimated man-hour effort for each significant segment or task of the work and the anticipated staff level to be assigned to that work segment), methodology, and public outreach strategy.

F. A proposed schedule from the Notice to Proceed through delivery of Final Products.

G. Fee Schedule to include Lump Sum Cost to complete this project, Hourly Rates of Staff Involved in project, and any additional fees anticipated.

H. Certificate of Insurance.

4.5. Submission Procedures and Requirements

A. All submissions must be received by Monday, March 4, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Submissions will not be accepted after the deadline. There will be no exceptions. Responders submitting proposals shall be responsible for all cost of preparing such proposals.

B. Responders to this solicitation shall closely examine the specific requirements noted herein and the attached Terms and Conditions. Facsimile transmittals, hard copies or offers communicated by telephone will not be accepted or considered.

C. License and Permits – The Contractor shall obtain all applicable licenses, and promptly pay all taxes required by the State of South Carolina, and/or Greenville County.

4.6. Inquiries and Addenda

Offerors shall submit all inquiries regarding this bid via the County’s online procurement Portal, located at https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/greenvillecounty. Please note the deadline for submitting inquiries. All answers to inquiries will be posted on the County’s online procurement Portal. Offerors may also click “Follow” on this bid to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the bidder to check the website for answers to inquiries. The County will not be responsible for or bound by any oral instructions made by any employee(s) of the County in regard to this RFP.

Addenda Notification: This RFP represents the most definite statement Greenville County will make concerning information upon which proposals are to be based. Offerors are required to register for an account via the County’s online procurement Portal hosted by ProcureNow. Once you have completed the registration, you will receive addenda notifications to your email by clicking “Follow” on this project.

Ultimately, it is sole responsibility of each proposer to periodically check the site for any addenda at https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/greenvillecounty. No addenda will be issued later than five (5) working days prior to the date for receipt for proposals except an addendum which, if necessary, postpones the date for receipt of proposals or cancels this RFP. Vendors shall acknowledge receipt of all addenda

5. Insurance

5.1. Insurance Requirements

The contractor is responsible for and must have all required insurance listed below and shall not commence work under the associated contract until it has obtained all insurance required, and the

County has approved such insurance in writing, nor shall the Contractor allow any subcontractor to commence work on its subcontract until all similar insurance required of the subcontractor has been obtained. All insurance policies shall be maintained for the life of the contract.

A. THE COUNTY SHALL BE NAMED AS “ADDITIONAL INSURED” FOR ITS INTERESTon all policies of insurance except Worker’s Compensation, Automobile Liability, and Professional Errors and

Omissions, as regards ongoing operations, products and completed operations, and this shall be noted on the face of the Certificate of Insurance. As a part of the certificate of insurance requirement the contractor shall also include acknowledgement and acceptance of the wavier of subrogation provision granted to Greenville County. This acknowledgement and acceptance should be included in the same section of the Certificate of Insurance that evidences the

“Additional Insured” provision.

B. Certificates for all such policies of insurance shall be provided by the Contractor's insurance agent or broker to the County within 10 working days from the date of Notice of Award.

C. All Certificates of Insurance submitted shall provide on the face of the certificate reference to

County's RFP #24080.

D. Contractor will provide County a minimum of 30 days advance notice in the event the insurance policies (or an insurance policy) are canceled. Subcontractors approved to perform work on this project are subject to all of the requirements in this Section.

E. Contractor agrees to maintain and keep in force during the life of this Agreement, with a company or companies authorized to do business in South Carolina, the following insurance policies:

1. Comprehensive General Liability:

a. $1,000,000 per occurrence - combined single limit /

b. $2,000,000 general aggregate, to include products and completed operations.

2. Automobile Liability:

a. $1,000,000 per occurrence - combined single limit (Coverage shall include bodily injury and property damage and cover all vehicles including owned, non-owned and hired)

3. Statutory Worker's Compensation:

a. Coverage A - State of SC

b. Coverage B - Employers liability

i. $1,000,000 Each Accident

ii. $1,000,000 Disease, Per Employee

iii. $1,000,000 Disease, Policy Limit

c. Policies shall contain a waiver of subrogation in favor of and/or that applies to

Greenville County, its departments, agencies, boards, employees, and commissions for losses from work performed by or on behalf of the contractor.

No deviation from this coverage’s will be accepted unless, in the County’s sole discretion, it is more advantageous to the County, i.e., $1,000,000 - a $2,000,000 or $5,000,000 limit would be acceptable.

6. General Information

A. Proprietary Information – The County of Greenville is a public body and governed by the South

Carolina Freedom of Information Act. Documents submitted to the County relating to this

Solicitation are subject to requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and may be deemed public records.

B. Errors and Omissions – The Responder will not be allowed to take advantage of any errors or omissions in the Request for Proposals. Where errors or omissions appear in the RFP, the

Responder shall promptly notify the County of Greenville in writing of such error or omission it discovers. Any significant error, omission and/or inconsistency in the specifications are to be reported as soon as possible but no later than five (5) days before such time the response is to be submitted.

C. Withdrawal of Proposal – An official representative of a Responder may withdraw a

Responder’s response at any time prior to the proposal submission deadline. Acceptable proof establishing that he/she is the representative of the Responder must be provided.

D. Non-Endorsement – If the County awards a contract, the successful Responder shall not issue any news release or other statement relating to the award or servicing of the agreement which state or imply the County of Greenville’s endorsement of the successful Responder’s services.

7. Evaluation Phases

The proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria. Greenville County reserves the right to interview responders or have demonstrations to this RFP at its discretion. Greenville County will not be responsible for any costs associated with interviews of responders or demonstrations.

7.1. Phase 1

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Responsiveness to RFP 0-5 Points 5 (25% of Total)

2. Experience with Projects of Similar Scope and

Size 0-5 Points 5

(25% of Total)

3. Timeline for Completion 0-5 Points 5 (25% of Total)

4. Cost 0-5 Points 5 (25% of Total)

7.2. Phase 2

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Interviews, if desired by the County 0-10 Points 10 (100% of Total)

8. Sample Contract

A Sample Contract is attached for review in the Attachments Section. This sample consists of the

County's minimum terms and conditions. Responders must review the solicitation for any other terms and conditions that may be added for this project, such as insurance requirements, payment schedule, contract term, etc. Any exceptions by the responder must be included with the uploaded response.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/greenvillecounty/projects/78026/document?section=694584

9. Vendor Questionnaire

9.1. Illegal Immigration Reform Act Compliance*

By submitting an offer, Contractor certifies that it will comply with the applicable requirements of Title

8, Chapter 14 of the South Carolina Code of Laws (originally enacted as Section 3 of The South Carolina

Illegal Immigration Reform Act , 2008 S.C. Act No. 280) and agrees to provide upon request any documentation required to establish either: (a) the applicability of Title 8, Chapter 14 to Contractor and any subcontractors or sub-subcontractors; or (b) the compliance with Title 8, Chapter 14 by Contractor and any subcontractor or sub-subcontractor. Pursuant to Section 8-14-60, “A person who knowingly makes or files any false, fictitious, or fraudulent document, statement, or report pursuant to this chapter is guilty of a felony, and upon conviction, must be fined within the discretion of the court or imprisoned for not more than five years, or both.” Contractor agrees to include in any contracts with its subcontractors language requiring the subcontractors to (a) comply with the applicable requirements of

Title 8, Chapter 14, and (b) include in any contracts with the sub-subcontractors language requiring the sub- subcontractor to comply with the applicable requirements of Title 8, Chapter 14. In the event any contractor, subcontractor and/or sub-subcontractor is found not to be in compliance with the SC

Immigration Reform Act [hereinafter "The Act"], the contractor agrees to fully indemnify the County for any loss suffered by the County as a result of such contractor, subcontractor or sub-subcontractor's failure to comply with the Act.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.2. S.C. Law Clause*

Upon award of contract under this response, the person, partnership, association or corporation to whom the award is made must comply with the laws of South Carolina which require such person or entity to be authorized and/or licensed to do business with this State. Notwithstanding the fact that applicable statutes may exempt or exclude the successful bidder from requirements that it be authorized and/or licensed to do business in this State, by submission of this signed response, the responder understands and agrees to be bound to the jurisdiction and process of the courts of the State of South Carolina, as to all matters and conflicts or future conflicts under the contract and the performance thereof, including any questions as to the liability for taxes, licenses, or fees levied by the

State.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.3. Conflict of Interest Statement*

The contractor may become involved in situations where a conflict of interest could occur due to individual or organizational activities within the County. The vendor, by submitting a response, is in essence assuring the County that his company, and/or subcontractors, is in compliance with all federal, state, and local conflict of interest laws, statutes, and regulations.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.4. Non-Collusion*

The contractor expressly warrants and certifies that neither the Contractor nor its employees or associates has directly or indirectly entered into any agreement, participated in any collusion or otherwise taken any action in restraint of free competitive bidding in conjunction with this response.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.5. Compliance With Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)*

By submitting an offer, Contractor certifies that it will comply with the applicable requirements of The

Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 and agrees to provide or submit the needed information to (a) examine the criminal history of Contractor or any subcontractor who will perform services, which result in contact with inmates and (b) Contractor agrees to disclose any information regarding past history of allegations of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by Contractor or any subcontractor. Contractor and subcontractor agree to complete Training provided by the County and sign an acknowledgement of understanding of PREA requirements. In the event the Contractor or any subcontractor is found not to be in compliance with PREA, the Contractor agrees to fully indemnify the County for any loss suffered by the County as a result of such Contractor or subcontractor’s failure to comply with the Act.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.6. County of Greenville Substitute W9 Form*

Please upload your COG Substitute W-9 form found in the Attachments Section.

*Response required

9.7. Response Upload*

Vendors shall upload their proposal information for the RFP:

A. Overview of company background to include names, resumes, and office locations of key staff that will be assigned to the project, an organizational chart, along with percentage of time devoted to the project including the project manager, and any subcontractors.

B. Corporate/individual qualifications and experiences, including all required forms and certifications.

C. Demonstrated understanding, success, and experience with Open Space Plans (or similar) projects, including implementation, time frames, and costs.

D. Up-to-date reference and contact names for the most recent five similar projects performed by the firm, particularly by staff being assigned.

E. Scope of Work/Task List to demonstrate understanding of the project and project approach, including work plans, identification of key staff members assigned to each work segment, allocation of staff hours (estimated man-hour effort for each significant segment or task of the work and the anticipated staff level to be assigned to that work segment), methodology, and public outreach strategy.

F. A proposed schedule from the Notice to Proceed through delivery of Final Products.

G. Fee Schedule to include Lump Sum Cost to complete this project, Hourly Rates of Staff Involved in project, and any additional fees anticipated.

H. Certificate of Insurance.

*Response required

9.8. Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Terms and Conditions of the Solicitation

9.8.1. Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Terms and Conditions of the Solicitation*

Explanatory Note: The purpose of this question is to confirm the responder’s or offeror’s acknowledgement and acceptance of the terms and conditions of the Solicitation, subject to any exceptions, deviations or modifications to terms or conditions that are expressly requested in the following or that have been requested and approved prior to submission of the Offer. All exceptions, deviations or modifications to the Solicitation, regardless of whether the County approved such items prior to submission of the Offer, must be clearly set forth in these questions.

The Offeror, by the undersigned representative, acknowledges and accepts all terms and conditions of the Solicitation, except as expressly noted below or in the additional question following hereto. As used in this question, “terms and conditions of Solicitation” means all terms, conditions, specifications, certifications and warranties set forth in the documents that comprise the Solicitation, including all sections of this RFP.

☐ The Offeror takes no exceptions or modifications to the terms and conditions of the Solicitation.

(Note: If none are listed below, it is understood that no exceptions/deviations are taken.)

☐ The Offer requests the exceptions or modifications set forth below and attached hereto to the terms and conditions of the Solicitation: (Note: All requested exceptions/deviations must be clearly explained.

Reference the specific language that you are taking exceptions/deviations to. Unacceptable exceptions shall remove your proposal from consideration for award. Greenville County Procurement Division shall be the sole judge on the acceptance of exceptions/deviations and their decision shall be final.)

*Response required

9.8.2. Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Terms and Conditions of the Solicitation*

If you requests any exceptions, deviations or modifications, please indicate your exceptions/deviations clearly. Reference the specific language that you are taking exceptions/deviations to.

(Note: Unacceptable exceptions shall remove your proposal from consideration for award. Greenville

County Procurement Division shall be the sole judge on the acceptance of exceptions/deviations and their decision shall be final.)

If no exceptions, deviations or modifications are being requested please indicate with a N/A

*Response required

9.9. Instructions to Respondents

Respondents are required to read and confirm the following questions

9.9.1. Instructions*

A. Responders shall answer all questions.

B. Proposals, amendments may be received up to but not later than Monday, March 4, 2024, 3:00 pm via the County’s online procurement Portal. The County’s online procurement Portal Clock is the official clock for the determination of all deadline dates and times. Without exception, responses will not be accepted after the submission deadline regardless of any technical difficulties such as poor internet connections. Greenville County strongly recommends completing your response well ahead of the deadline

C. Proposal may be withdrawn prior to the submission due date and time, a new submission can be submitted up to the proposal due date and time.

D. Quote prices on units specified with packing included.

E. Attach complete specifications for and permitted substitutions offered, or when amplification is desirable or necessary.

F. If specifications or descriptive papers are submitted with Proposals, enter respondents name thereon.

G. If the article bid upon has a trade name or brand, show same in the proposal.

H. When required, furnish samples, free of expense, prior to opening of Proposals. Label each sample with respondents name and the item number. Should you wish samples returned, at your expense, when not destroyed in tests, make request for return within 10 days following bid/proposal opening.

I. Show delivery time required after order is received (see below).

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.9.2. Conditions*

A. The County Agency or Institution submitting this notice reserves the right to reject any and all

Proposals, and to waive all technicalities.

B. Unit prices will govern over extended prices, unless otherwise stated in notice.

C. Time in connection with discount offered will be computed from date of delivery of commodities to carrier, when inspecting and acceptance is at point of origin; or date of delivery at destination; or if laboratory inspection is made part of bid, from date of laboratory report.

D. In case of default of contractor, Greenville County reserves the right to purchase any or all items in default on open market, charging contractor with any excessive costs.

E. All materials and products offered must be guaranteed to meet the requirements of the specifications indicated, given or referred to.

F. Prices bid must be based upon payment in thirty (30) days. Discounts for payment in less than thirty (30) days will not be considered in making award.

G. The right is reserved, in case of tie bids, to make award considered to be most advantageous to

Greenville County.

H. The right is reserved to reject any Proposal in which the delivery time indicated is considered sufficient to delay the operation for which the commodity is intended.

I. Unless otherwise indicated by County Agency or Institution submitting this notice, prices must be firm.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

9.9.3. Offer and Agrees*

In compliance with invitation, and subject to all conditions, thereof, the undersigned offers and agrees, if this Proposal is accepted within ______days from date of opening, furnish any or all items quoted on at prices as set forth after the item and unless otherwise specified, within ______ days after receipt of order, delivered, all transportation costs included, ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

9.9.4. Discount*

Discount will be allowed as follows: 30 calendar days __________ %

Example: 5

*Response required

9.10. References

The County requires responders to list at least three (3) references including their company name, name of contact, address, telephone number, and email address of contact person with whom the responder has performed or provided similar work, service or product. The reference may be contacted to fill out a short questionnaire on the work with that company. If the reference does not complete the questionnaire by the time requested, the County will allow the responder to give an alternate reference.

The County asks that responders do not list County representatives or departments as a reference.

9.10.1. Reference #1*

Please identify your first reference in the following format:

Company Name:

Full Name of Contact Person:

Company Address:

Contact Person Telephone Number:

Contact Person Email Address:

*Response required

9.10.2. Reference # 2*

Please identify your second reference in the following format:

Company Name:

Full Name of Contact Person:

Company Address:

Contact Person Telephone Number:

Contact Person Email Address:

*Response required

9.10.3. Reference # 3*

Please identify your third reference in the following format:

Company Name:

Full Name of Contact Person:

Company Address:

Contact Person Telephone Number:

Contact Person Email Address:

*Response required

9.11. MBE/WBE

Is your agency MBE/WBE

9.11.1. MBE/WBE*

Indicate yes or no if your agency is a Minority Owned Business Enterprise or Woman Owned Business

Enterprise

☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

9.11.2. MBE/WBE areas of involvement for monitoring purposes.* Indicate in your response any MBE/WBE areas of involvement for monitoring purposes.

*Response required

9.12. Authorized Contact Information

The following contact shall have the authority to submit the response to this solicitation, clarify any information needed, and will be the contact for any contract negotiations.

9.12.1. Contact Information*

Please identify an authorized contact for your response in the following format.

Full Name of Contact Person:

Title of Contact Person:

Contact Person Telephone Number:

Contact Person Email Address:

*Response required

10. Terms and Conditions

10.1. Safety, Health, and Security

Contractor shall be solely responsible for its activities, that of its employees on the site and activities of its consultants, contractors and/or subcontractors for maintaining a safe job site. Contractor’s activities and activities of its consultants, contractors and/or subcontractors shall comply with all local, state, and federal safety regulations and their enforcement agencies. Contractor shall at all times conduct its operations under this Contract in a manner to avoid risk of endangerment to the health and safety of persons and property. The Contractor shall have sole responsibility for implementing its safety and health programs, taking all safety and health precautions necessary and continuously inspecting all equipment, materials and work to prevent, discover, determine and correct any conditions which might result in personal injury, equipment damage or damage to property or the public. Contractor’s safety, health and security programs shall be in compliance with all regulatory requirements and shall furnish accident, incident, injury, and other records and reports required by the Occupational Safety and Health

Administration, State and Local laws, or by the County.

10.2. Response Opening and Award:

Responses shall be publicly opened and only the names of the offerors disclosed at the opening. For

IFBs, the name of the responder as well as the price will be disclosed. However, no decision will be made until Procurement Services and the user Division have had ample time to review each response. Award will be made at the earliest possible date. The County reserves the right to award in whole or in part, by item, group of items, geographic area or by section where such action serves the County’s best interest.

The contract will be awarded to the response that meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the

Solicitation. No response may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the opening date.

Submissions will not be accepted after the deadline. There will be no exceptions. By submission of a response, you are guaranteeing that all goods and services meet the requirement of the solicitation during the contract period.

10.3. Rights Reserved by Greenville County:

Greenville County reserves the right to reject any and all responses, any portion thereof, and waive any technicalities. Accordingly, the right is reserved to make awards in the best interest of the County.

Integrity, reputation, experience and past performance will be heavily weighed in response evaluation.

This solicitation does not commit the County of Greenville to award a contract, to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the response, or to procure or contract for goods or services listed herein.

10.4. Responders Qualification:

Responders must, upon request of the County, furnish satisfactory evidence of their ability to furnish products or services in accordance with the terms and conditions of these specifications. The County reserves the right to make the final determination as to the responder’s ability to provide the products or services requested herein.

10.5. Responders Responsibility:

Each responder shall be fully acquainted with the conditions relating to the scope and restrictions attending the execution of the work under the conditions of this response. It is expected that this will sometimes require on-site observation. The failure or omission of a responder to be acquainted with existing conditions shall in no way relieve the responder of any obligations with respect to this response or to any contract as a result of this response.

10.6. References:

The County requires responders to list at least three (3) references including their company name, name of contact, address, telephone number, and email address of contact person with whom the responder has performed or provided similar work, service or product. The reference may be contacted to fill out a short questionnaire on the work with that company. If the reference does not complete the questionnaire by the time requested, the County will allow the responder to give an alternate reference.

The County asks that responders do not list County representatives or departments as a reference.

10.7. Waiver:

The County reserves the right to waive any Instructions to Responders, General or Special Terms and

Conditions, specifications, or technicalities when it is deemed to be in the best interest of the County to do so.

10.8. Rejection:

Greenville County reserves the right to reject any response that contains prices for individual items or services that are inconsistent or unrealistic…