IFB 2025-016 Meter and Transceiver Units.pdf

November 26, 2024 2:00 PM Local Time Union County Government Center Procurement and Contract Management Department 500 N. Main Street, Suite 709 Monroe, NC 28112

Invitation for Bid No. 2025-016 Meters and Transceiver Units

Due Date:

Time:

Submittal Location:

Procurement Contact:

Vicky Watts, CLGPO Senior Procurement Specialist 704.283.3601 vicky.watts@unioncountync.gov mailto:vicky.watts@unioncountync.gov

Union County, North Carolina IFB 2025-016 Meters and Transceiver Units

Contents Notice of Advertisement 1 Bid Submission

1.1 BID SUBMISSION DEADLINE

1.2 BID DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS

1.3 BID QUESTIONS

1.4 BID ADDENDUM

2 Purpose

2.1 COUNTY

2.2 INTRODUCTION

3 Instructions

3.1 COMMUNICATION

3.2 BIDDERS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

3.3 DUPLICATE BID

3.4 BID SIGNATURES

3.5 BIDDERS RESPONSIBILITIES

4 Project Scope 5 Specifications

5.1 METERS & TRANSECEIVER UNITS

5.1.1 Sensus SR II Water Meters

5.1.2 Sensus SmartPoint 520M Pit Set Module

5.1.3 Sensus MXU520M REF#085B Pit Lid Housing for 520M *5396034600004*

5.2 WARRANTY

5.3 DELIVERY

5.4 ELECTRONIC INVENTORY FILE

5.5 DEVIATIONS

6 Bid Submission and Award Procedures

6.1 BID INFORMATION

6.2 TERMS OF SUBMISSION

6.3 AWARD

6.4 COST ADJUSTMENTS

6.5 APPLICATION OF NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL STATUTES

7 General Conditions and Requirements

7.1 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR BIDDERS

7.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

7.3 IFB EXPENSES

7.4 CERTIFICATION

7.5 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

7.6 CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

7.7 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS

7.8 EXCEPTION TO THE IFB

7.9 MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL OF BID

7.10 CONTRACT COMMENCEMENT

7.11 DISPUTES

7.12 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

7.13 MINORITY BUSINESSES (MBE) OR DISADVANTAGED BUSINESSES (DBE)

7.14 LICENSES

7.15 E-VERIFY

7.16 INSURANCE

7.17 INDEMNIFICATION

8 Appendix A – Bid Form 9 Appendix B – Bid Submission Form 10 Appendix C – Addendum and Anti-Collusion Form 11 Appendix D – Sample Agreement

NOTICE OF ADVERTISEMENT

IFB No. 2025-016

Meters and Transceiver Units

Sealed bids for Meters and Transceiver Units will be received by the Union County Procurement Department until 2:00 PM local time on November 26, 2024 at the Union County Government Center, 500 North Main Street, Suite 709, Monroe, NC 28112 at which time the bids will be opened and read. Late bids will not be accepted.

If a Bid is sent by mail or other delivery system, the sealed envelope containing the Bid shall be enclosed in a separate package plainly marked on the outside with the notation “BID ENCLOSED

– 2025-016” and shall be addressed to Union County Procurement Department, Attn: Vicky Watts, 500 North Main Street, Suite 709, Monroe, NC 28112.

Union County, North Carolina, through the Union County Water – Business Operations, is seeking bids from qualified Companies to provide Sensus Meters and Transceiver Units in response to this solicitation.

This solicitation may be examined at the Union County Government Center, Procurement and Contract Management Department, 500 North Main Street, Suite 709, Monroe, NC 28112, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. Copies of the solicitation may be obtained from the locations listed below free of charge:

1. Download the Solicitation Documents from the Union County website:

https://www.unioncountync.gov/departments/bids-procurement/current-bids

2. Download the Solicitation Documents from the State of North Carolina eVP website:

https://evp.nc.gov/solicitations/ (Search County of Union)

All questions about the meaning or intent of the Bidding Documents are to be submitted in writing to the Procurement contact person listed on the cover page (vicky.watts@unioncountync.gov). Deadline for questions is November 15, 2024 at 3:00 PM local time.

Bidders are required to comply with the non-collusion requirements set forth in the Bidding Documents.

Union County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, including without limitation, nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced, or conditional Bids. Owner further reserves the right to reject the Bid and Bidder whom they find, after reasonable inquiry and evaluation, to not be responsible. Owner may also reject the Bid and Bidder if the Owner believes that it would not be in the best interest of the Project to make an award to that Bidder. Owner also reserves the right to waive all informalities and technicalities not involving price, time, or changes in the Work and to negotiate, as allowed by law, contract terms with the Successful Bidder.

Union County encourages good faith effort outreach to Minority Businesses (HUB Certified) and Small Businesses.

--End of Advertisement--https://www.unioncountync.gov/departments/bids-procurement/current-bids https://evp.nc.gov/solicitations/ http://www.ips.state.nc.us/

1 BID SUBMISSION

1.1 BID SUBMISSION DEADLINE

Sealed bids are to be received by the Union County Procurement & Contract Management Department for Meters and Transceiver Units until November 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM Local Time at the Union County Government Center, 500 North Main Street, Suite 709, Monroe, NC 28112 at which time the bids will be opened and read. Late bids will not be accepted.

1.2 BID DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS

All Bids must be in a sealed box or opaque envelope plainly marked as follows:

[Name of Firm Submitting Bid] IFB No. 2025-016 Meters and Transceiver Units Attention: Vicky Watts

Your company name and the solicitation number must be visible on the delivery box/envelope. Ship, Mail, or Hand Deliver to the following address:

Union County Government Center Procurement and Contract Management Department 500 North Main Street, Suite 709 Monroe, NC 28112 Attention: Vicky Watts

Electronic (email) or facsimile submissions will not be accepted.

There is no expressed or implied obligation for Union County to reimburse firms for any expenses incurred in preparing Bids in response to this request.

Union County reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive technicalities and to make such selection deemed in its best interest. Union County, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to supplement, amend, substitute or otherwise modify this IFB at any time, to cancel this IFB with or without the substitution of another IFB, and to issue additional request for information.

1.3 BID QUESTIONS

Bid questions will be due on or before November 15, 2024 at 3:00 PM local time. The primary purpose of this is to provide participating Bidders with the opportunity to ask questions, in writing, related to the IFB.

Submit questions by email to Vicky Watts at vicky.watts@unioncountync.gov by the deadline shown above. (Do not send question in a graph or Excel format.) The email subject line should be identified as follows: IFB 2025-016 Meters and Transceiver Units.

All questions and answers may be posted as addenda on the County Website and the North Carolina eVP Website as indicated on the Advertisement Page of this solicitation.

1.4 BID ADDENDUM

Union County may modify the IFB prior to the date fixed for submission of Bids by the issuance of an addendum. Should an Offeror find discrepancies or omissions in this IFB, or any other documents provided by Union County, the Offeror should immediately notify the County of such potential discrepancy in writing via email as noted above.

Any addenda to these documents shall be issued in writing. No oral statements, explanations, or commitments by anyone shall be of effect unless incorporated in the written addenda. Receipt of Addenda shall be acknowledged by the Offeror on Appendix C – Addendum and Anti-Collusion Form.

2 PURPOSE

2.1 COUNTY

Union County, North Carolina (population 254,070) is located in the central, southern piedmont. The County provides its citizens with a full array of services that include public safety, water/wastewater utilities and sanitation, human services, cultural and recreational activities, and general government administration.

2.2 INTRODUCTION

Union County, North Carolina, through the Union County Water – Business Operations, is seeking bids from qualified Companies to provide Sensus Meters and Transceiver Units in response to this solicitation.

3 INSTRUCTIONS

3.1 COMMUNICATION

All communications, any modifications, clarifications, amendments, questions, responses or any other matters related to the IFB must be made only through the Procurement Contact noted on the cover of this solicitation. A violation of this provision is cause for the County to reject a Company’s bid. No contact regarding this document with other County employees is permitted and may be grounds for disqualification.

3.2 BIDDERS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Bid will remain subject to acceptance for 120 days after the Bid Opening, or for such longer period of time that Bidder may agree to in writing upon request of Owner

3.3 DUPLICATE BID

No more than one (1) bid from any Bidder will be considered by the County. In the event that multiple bids are submitted in violation of this provision, the County will have the right to determine which bid will be considered, or at its sole option, reject all such multiple bids.

3.4 BID SIGNATURES

An authorized company official must sign Bids. Each signature represents binding commitment upon the Bidder to provide the goods and/or services offered to the County if the Bidder is determined to be the lowest responsive, responsible Bidder.

3.5 BIDDERS RESPONSIBILITIES

The Bidder must be capable of providing all parts as described herein. Exclusion of any parts or services for this Bid may serve as cause for rejection.

The County will consider the successful Bidder to be the sole point of contact with regard to contractual matters, including payment of any and all charges resulting from the cost of any contract.

4 PROJECT SCOPE

Union County is inviting bids for the purchase of Sensus Meters and Transceiver Units to meet County needs. Any deviation from specifications must be clearly indicated. Costs must include all manufacturer charges, including delivery (if applicable). Delivery should be within 4-6 weeks after receipt of the order.

5 SPECIFICATIONS

5.1 METERS & TRANSECEIVER UNITS

The following meters & transceiver units are required for this bid:

5.1.1 SENSUS SR II WATER METERS

Sensus SRII positive displacement meter 5/8x3/4” and 1” with e-register plus reading in 10 USG with a 6' TRPL touch coupler connection.

5.1.2 SENSUS SMARTPOINT 520M PIT SET MODULE

• Sensus 520M flexnet touch coupler licensed transmitter

• Compatible with a range of Sensus and non-Sensus encoded metering systems (via TouchCoupler or wired)

• 2 watts broadcast power

• Frequency range: 900-950 MHz

• 8000 channels, in 6.25 kHz steps

• Proprietary narrow band modulation

• Non-volatile memory

• Lithium thionyl chloride batteries with hybrid layer capacitor

• FCC CFR 47: Part 24D, Part 101C, Part 15 licensed operation

• Industry Canada (IC) RSS-134, RSS-119

5.1.3 SENSUS MXU520M REF#085B PIT LID HOUSING FOR 520M

*5396034600004*

5.2 WARRANTY

Sensus 520M and Sensus SRII shall be guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of twenty (20) years from the date of delivery to the site. If a meter fails during the first twenty years, the meter shall be returned to the Supplier, and a new meter shall be provided to the County by the Supplier at no cost.

5.3 DELIVERY

The delivery schedule that must be met by the Supplier is as follows:

• The Supplier shall deliver to the Union County Operations Center, 4600 Goldmine Road, Monroe, NC, 28110.

• Partial deliveries will be accepted. Payment will be issued upon complete shipment of each order.

• Deliveries to the specified site shall be coordinated between the Supplier and the County.

• Deliveries shall include a 48-hour notice.

• Deliveries to the specified site shall be between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday on normal business days with a 1 hour call ahead notification to the County’s representative.

• All orders shall be shipped FOB: Destination.

5.4 ELECTRONIC INVENTORY FILE

All orders shall be confirmed electronically upon receipt by the Supplier. Confirmation shall include an anticipated delivery date for all items. All communication regarding purchase requisitions, change orders, back orders, and the like shall be via email to the County representative.

An electronic inventory file shall be provided to the County representative by the Supplier prior to shipment of the meters allowing for confirmation between the inventory file and the order received.

The electronic inventory file shall include the following items at a minimum. The format of each file received shall be consistent.

• Manufacturer name

• Meter/Transceiver model number

• Meter/Transceiver identification number

• Register number

• Date received

• Meter size

• Meter register multiplier

5.5 DEVIATIONS

Any deviations from specifications and requirements herein must be clearly pointed out by bidder. Otherwise it will be considered that products offered will be in strict compliance with these specifications and requirements, and successful bidder will be held responsible therefor. Deviations must be explained in detail on an attached sheet. However, no implication is made by Union County that deviations will be acceptable. Bidder is advised that the response (or lack thereof) on this question does not take precedence over specific responses or non-responses provided elsewhere in this bid.

6 BID SUBMISSION AND AWARD PROCEDURES

6.1 BID INFORMATION

Bids must be made in strict conformance using the Invitation for Bid (IFB) forms provided herein. All blank spaces for bids must be filled in properly. Numbers must be written in ink or typewritten, and the completed forms shall be without erasures, lineation, or alterations. In accepting the bid, the County will assume that no alterations have been made, and if they appear afterward, they shall not be binding on the County.

All Bid Documents shall be signed by an individual who is authorized to contractually bind the company. The signature must indicate the title or position the individual holds in the agency or firm. Agencies or firms which sign contracts with the name of the agency or firm must provide the name of a corporate officer or executive director for signature validation by the County. All unsigned Bids will be disqualified. In submitting a Bid, Offeror affirms all statements contained in the bid are true and accurate.

6.2 TERMS OF SUBMISSION

All material received from a person or company (“Respondent”) in response to this solicitation shall become the property of Union County and will not be returned to the Respondent. Any and all costs incurred by a Respondent in preparing, submitting, or presenting submissions are the Respondent’s sole responsibility and Union County shall not reimburse the Respondent. All responses to this solicitation will be considered a public record and subject to disclosure under applicable public records law.

Any material in a response which the Respondent considers a trade secret and exempt from disclosure as a public record under applicable law, including N.C.G.S. §§ 132-1.2 and 66-152, must be properly designated as a trade secret. In order to properly designate such material, the Respondent must: (i) submit any trade secret materials in a separate envelope, or file, from all other submitted material, being clearly marked as “Trade Secret

– Confidential and Proprietary Information,” and (ii) stamp the same trade secret/confidentiality designation on each page of the materials therein which contain trade secrets.

To the extent consistent with public records law, Union County will make reasonable efforts to maintain the confidential nature of trade secrets, as determined by Union County and subject to the conditions set forth herein. Respondent understands and agrees by submitting a response to this solicitation, that if a request is made to review or produce a copy of any information in the Respondent’s materials which was properly labeled by the Respondent as a trade secret, Union County will notify the Respondent of the request and the date that such materials will be released to the requestor unless the Respondent obtains a court order enjoining that disclosure. If the Respondent fails to obtain the court order enjoining disclosure prior to that date, Respondent understands and agrees that Union County will release the requested information to the requestor on that date.

Furthermore, the Respondent also agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Union County and each of its officers, employees, and agents from all costs, damages, and expenses incurred in connection with refusing to disclose any material that has been designated as a trade secret by Respondent.

6.3 AWARD

The award shall be made to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder, taking into consideration quality, performance, and the time specified in the bid for the performance of the contract.

The term of this contract shall be for two (2) years with three (3) one-year renewal options at the County’s discretion. The award is for a fixed, firm unit price during the initial two (2) year term where product needs are based upon indefinite quantities, and where orders will be based on actual needs that may exceed or be less than projections. All expenditures under a unit price contract are contingent upon appropriations having been made by Union County Board of Commissioners. Price adjustments may be negotiated at the time of renewal, based on the applicable Consumer Price Index adjustment over the preceding twelve months.

Union County shall review the terms and conditions, and confirm performance under this contract has been satisfactory. However, the County reserves the right to terminate the contract or to allow the contract period to elapse.

A Bid may be rejected if it is incomplete. Union County may reject any or all Bids and may waive any immaterial deviation in a Bid.

The County shall have a period of 120 days after opening of Bids in which to award the contract. A Contract shall serve as the agreement for the purpose of this award. Contents of the Bid shall become contractual obligations if a contract ensues. Failure of the Bidder to honor these obligations may result in cancellation of the award.

6.4 COST ADJUSTMENTS

The cost for all items as quoted herein shall remain firm for the contract period specified/awarded. Costs for subsequent periods and any renewal term periods shall be subject to an adjustment only if increases occur in the industry. However, unless very unusual and significant changes have occurred in the industry, such increases shall not exceed 5% per year or, whichever is less, in the latest yearly percentage increase in the All Urban Consumers Price Index (CPI-U) (South Region), Other Goods and Services, with the Index period of 2020-2024 as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.

Department of Labor. The yearly increase, or decrease in the CPI shall be that latest index published and available ninety (90) days prior to the end of the contract year then in effect compared to the index for the same month one year prior. Any requested cost increase shall be fully documented and submitted to the Union County Public Works Department

Representative at least ninety (90) days prior to the contract anniversary date. Any approved cost adjustments shall become effective upon the anniversary date of the contract. In the event the CPI or industry costs decline, the County shall receive, from the Contractor, a reasonable reduction in costs that reflect such cost changes in the industry.

The County may, after examination, refuse to accept the adjusted costs if they are not properly documented, increases are considered to be excessive, or decreases are considered to be insufficient. In the event the County does not wish to accept the adjusted costs, and the matter cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the County, the contract will not be renewed, and the County will rebid the contract. Any contract extension is subject to the continuation of usage and the appropriation of funds.

6.5 APPLICATION OF NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL STATUTES

The General Statutes of North Carolina regarding purchasing and competitive bidding (G.S. § 143-129) are made a part herein and will govern the bidding process as applicable.

7 GENERAL CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

7.1 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR BIDDERS

Bids shall be considered only from companies normally engaged in providing the type of products specified in this solicitation. Union County, in its discretion, shall determine whether the evidence of responsibility and ability to perform is satisfactory.

The individual/firm warrants that he/she is fully qualified, with adequate personnel and experience, to undertake the services required. The Offeror shall also certify that insurance coverage that meets or exceeds industry standards for this type of work will be in-force to mitigate risk during performance under the contract.

7.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

All payroll taxes, liability and worker’s compensation are the sole responsibility of the Offeror. The Offeror understands that an employer/employee relationship does not exist under this contract.

The County reserves the right to reject any and all bids, the right to waive informalities, and the right to disregard nonconforming or conditional bids or counter bids. It is the intention of Union County to execute a final, binding Contract with the successful Offeror which incorporates terms and conditions no less onerous than those appropriate to the engagement of a licensed contracting firm in connection with a project of this magnitude.

All bids submitted in response to this request shall become the property of Union County and as such, may be subject to public review.

7.3 IFB EXPENSES

Expenses for developing the bids are entirely the responsibility of the vendor and shall not be chargeable in any way to the County.

7.4 CERTIFICATION

In response to the IFB Request, the Contractor certifies the following:

• This bid is signed by an authorized representative of the firm;

• It can obtain insurance certificates as required within ten (10) calendar days after notice of award;

• All labor costs, direct and indirect, have been determined and included in the proposed cost; and

• The potential Contractor has read and understands the conditions set forth in this solicitation.

7.5 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The Bidder must have the following financial information readily available and have the ability to provide it to the County, without exception, within twenty-four (24) hours upon request during the bid certification process:

1. Annual audited financial reports for the past five (5) fiscal years;

2. Credit reports, credit bulletins, bank and vendor references, and any other

3. published statements by agencies that have been issued or published about the entity within the past five (5) years;

4. Indicate whether the Company (and/or predecessor, guarantor, or subcontractor) has declared bankruptcy within the last five (5) years;

5. Provide a description of the financial impact of any past or pending legal proceedings and judgments that could materially affect the Bidder’s financial position or ability to provide service to the County.

7.6 CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The contents of this Bid and the commitments set forth in the Bid shall be considered contractual obligations if a contract ensues. Failure to accept these obligations may result in cancellation of the award. All legally required terms and conditions shall be incorporated into final contract agreements with the selected Service

7.7 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS

Seller represents and warrants that the performance of this order and the furnishing of goods or services required shall be in accordance with the applicable standards, provisions and stipulations of all pertinent Federal, State or County laws, rules, regulations, resolutions and ordinances including but not limited to the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Equal Employment Opportunity rules and regulations and the Occupational Safety and Health Acts.

7.8 EXCEPTION TO THE IFB

An “exception” is defined as the Service Provider’s inability or unwillingness to meet a term, condition, specification, or requirement in the manner specified in the IFB. All exceptions taken must be identified and explained in writing and must specifically reference the relevant section(s) of this IFB. Other than exceptions that are stated in compliance with this Section, each Bid shall be deemed to agree to comply with all terms, conditions, specifications, and requirements of this IFB. If the Service Provider provides an alternate solution when taking an exception to a requirement, the benefits of this alternate solution and impact, if any, on any part of the remainder of the Service Provider’s solution, must be described in detail.

7.9 MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL OF BID

Prior to the scheduled closing time for receiving bids, any Contractor may withdraw his bid. After the scheduled closing time for receiving bids, no bid may be withdrawn for 90 days. Only written requests for the modification or correction of a previously submitted bid that are addressed in the same manner as bids and are received by the County prior to the closing time for receiving bids will be accepted. The bid will be corrected in accordance with such written requests, provided that any such written request is in a sealed envelope that is plainly marked “Modification of Bid.” Oral, telephone or fax modifications or corrections will not be recognized or considered.

7.10 CONTRACT COMMENCEMENT

Commencement of a contract shall not begin prior to all necessary County approvals, including County Commission approval where required, and receipt of a County Purchase Order. Commencement of a contract without these approvals is solely at the Bidder’s own risk and is likely to result in no payment for services performed or goods received.

7.11 DISPUTES

In case of any doubt or differences of opinion as to the services to be furnished hereunder, the decision of the County shall be final and binding upon both parties.

7.12 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

All Companies will be required to follow Federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies. Union County will affirmatively assure that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement, equal employment opportunity will be offered to all persons without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, and marital status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age.

7.13 MINORITY BUSINESSES (MBE) OR DISADVANTAGED BUSINESSES (DBE)

It is the policy of Union County that Minority Businesses (MBEs), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) and other small businesses shall have the opportunity to compete fairly in contracts financed in whole or in part with public funds. Consistent with this policy, Union County will not allow any person or business to be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be discriminated against in connection with the award and performance of any contract because of sex, race, religion, or national origin.

7.14 LICENSES

The successful Firm(s) shall have and maintain a valid and appropriate business license (if applicable), meet all local, state, and federal codes, and have current all required local, state, and federal licenses.

7.15 E-VERIFY

E-Verify is the federal program operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies, or any successor or equivalent program, used to verify the work authorization of newly hired employees pursuant to federal law.

Offeror/Firm shall ensure that Firm and any Subcontractor performing work under this contract: (i) uses E-Verify if required to do so; and (ii) otherwise complies with applicable law.

7.16 INSURANCE

One or more of the following insurance limits may be required if it is applicable to the project. The County reserves the right to require additional insurance depending on the nature of the agreement.

At Contractor’s sole expense, Contractor shall procure and maintain the following minimum insurances with insurers authorized to do business in North Carolina and rated A-VII or better by A.M. Best, or as otherwise authorized by the Union County Risk Manager.

A. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

(for any agreement unless otherwise waived by the Risk Manager) Statutory limits (where contractor has three or more employees) covering all employees, including Employer’s Liability with limits of:

$500,000 Each Accident $500,000 Disease - Each Employee $500,000 Disease - Policy Limit

B. COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY

(for any agreement unless otherwise waived by the Risk Manager)

Covering Ongoing and Completed Operations involved in this Agreement.

$2,000,000 General Aggregate $2,000,000 Products/Completed Operations Aggregate $1,000,000 Each Occurrence $1,000,000 Personal and Advertising Injury Limit $5,000 Medical Expense Limit

C. COMMERCIAL AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY

(for any agreement involving the use of a contractor vehicle while conducting services associated with the agreement)

$1,000,000 Combined Single Limit - Any Auto

D. PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

(for any agreement providing professional service such as engineering, architecture, surveying, consulting services, etc.)

$1,000,000 Claims Made

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Professional Liability Insurance for a period of two (2) years following termination of the Agreement.

E. POLLUTION LIABILITY INSURANCE

(for any agreement involving the clean-up or transportation of pollutants)

$1,000,000 Claims Made

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Pollution Liability

Insurance for a period of two (2) years following termination of the Agreement.

F. NETWORK SECURITY & PRIVACY LIABILITY (CYBER)

(for any agreement involving software applications)

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Technology Errors & Omissions Insurance for a period of two (2) years following termination of the

G. Builder’s Risk (for any agreement involving above ground construction projects) Amount of Contract

ADDITIONAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. The Contractor’s General Liability policy shall be endorsed, specifically or generally, to include the following as Additional Insured:

UNION COUNTY, ITS OFFICERS, AGENTS AND EMPLOYEES ARE

INCLUDED AS ADDITIONAL INSURED WITH RESPECTS TO THE GENERAL

LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY.

Additional Insured status for Completed Operations shall extend for a period of not less than three (3) years from the date of final payment.

B. Before commencement of any work or event, Contractor shall provide a Certificate of Insurance in satisfactory form as evidence of the insurances required above.

C. Contractor shall have no right of recovery or subrogation against Union County

(including its officers, agents and employees).

D. It is the intention of the parties that the insurance policies afforded by contractor shall protect both parties and be primary and non-contributory coverage for any and all losses covered by the above-described insurance.

E. Union County shall have no liability with respect to Contractor’s personal property whether insured or not insured. Any deductible or self-insured retention is the sole responsibility of Contractor.

F. Notwithstanding the notification requirements of the Insurer, Contractor hereby agrees to notify County’s Risk Manager at 500 N. Main Street # 130, Monroe, NC 28112, within two (2) days of the cancellation or substantive change of any insurance policy set out herein. Union, in its sole discretion, may deem failure to provide such notice as a breach of this Agreement.

G. The Certificate of Insurance should note in the Description of Operations the following:

Department: _____________________ Contract #: _____________________

H. Insurance procured by Contractor shall not reduce nor limit Contractor’s contractual obligation to indemnify, save harmless and defend Union County for claims made or suits brought which result from or are in connection with the performance of this Agreement.

I. Certificate Holder shall be listed as follows:

Union County 500 N. Main Street, Suite #130 Monroe, NC 28112

J. If Contractor is authorized to assign or subcontract any of its rights or duties hereunder and in fact does so, Contractor shall ensure that the assignee or subcontractor satisfies all requirements of this Agreement, including, but not limited to, maintenance of the required insurances coverage and provision of certificate(s) of insurance and additional insured endorsement(s), in proper form prior to commencement of services.

7.17 INDEMNIFICATION

Contractor agrees to protect, defend, indemnify and hold Union County, its officers, employees and agents free and harmless from and against any and all losses, penalties, damages, settlements, costs, charges, professional fees or other expenses or liabilities of every kind and character arising out of or relating to any and all claims, liens, demands, obligations, actions, proceedings, or causes of action of every kind in connection with or arising out of this agreement and/or the performance hereof that are due, in whole or in part, to the negligence of the Contractor, its officers, employees, subcontractors or agents.

Contractor further agrees to investigate, handle, respond to, provide defense for, and defend the same at its sole expense and agrees to bear all other costs and expenses related thereto.

--Intentionally Left Blank--

8 APPENDIX A – BID FORM

IFB No. 2025-016 Meters & Transceiver Units

SUBMIT WITH BID

Company Name: _________________________________

Unit costs shall be applied, as appropriate, to compute the total value in the scope of the work and specifications all in accordance with the Contract Documents.

The Bid shall include all costs to the supplier including, without limitation, delivery, transport, overhead, profit, taxes, insurance, etc. as described in this solicitation. Bidder acknowledges that quantities are approximate only and are given as the basis for comparison of Bids. The Owner may increase or decrease the quantity of any item as may be deemed necessary or expedient. An increase or decrease in the quantity of any item will not be regarded as sufficient grounds for an increase or decrease in the unit costs.

This Bid Form must be completed in its entirety and submitted with bid. Failure to complete the following form shall result in your Bid being deemed nonresponsive and rejected without any further evaluation.

Provide unit cost and total cost for each Sensus Meter, Transceiver and Pit Lid Adapters outlined below:

Description Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost

1" Water Meters 100

3/4" Water Meters 2300

Meter Transceiver 3500

Pit Lid Adapters 2000

Total Bid:

Bid Package Checklist:

The following items are submitted and made a condition of this Bid:

1. Appendix A – Bid form

2. Appendix B – Bid Submission Form (signed)

3. Appendix C – Addendum and Anti-Collusion Form (signed)

4. List of Project References

5. Evidence of Authority to do Business in the State of North Carolina

6. Warranty

9 APPENDIX B – BID SUBMISSION FORM

This Bid is submitted by:

Company Legal Name:

Representative Name:

Representative Signature:

Representative Title:

Address:

City/State/Zip:

Email Address:

Phone Number:

Website Address:

It is understood that Union County reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to make awards according to the best interest of the County, to waive formalities, technicalities, to recover and re-bid this project. Bid is valid for 120 calendar days from the bid due date and is submitted by an executive of the company that has authority to contract with Union County, NC.

Name:

Title:

Signature:

Date:

10 APPENDIX C – ADDENDUM AND ANTI-COLLUSION FORM

Please acknowledge receipt of all addenda by including this form with your Bid. Any questions or changes received will be posted as an addendum on www.co.union.nc.us and/or www.ips.state.nc.us. It is your responsibility to check for this information.

Addendum No. Date Downloaded

I certify that this Bid is made in good faith and without any other offeror or officer or employee of Union County.

Company Name:

Name:

Title:

Email Address:

Signature:

Date:

http://www.co.union.nc.us/ http://www.ips.state.nc.us/

11 APPENDIX D – SAMPLE AGREEMENT

DO NOT SUBMIT WITH BID

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 1

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

AGREEMENT

COUNTY OF UNION

THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of __________________________, by and between UNION COUNTY, a political subdivision of the State of North Carolina, whose address is 500 North Main Street, Monroe, NC 28112, hereinafter “Union,” and [Contractor’s full legal name], a [type of business (corporation, limited liability company, etc.) and state where incorporated], whose address is ____________________________________, hereinafter “Contractor.”

W I T N E S S E T H

WHEREAS, Contractor is a supplier of certain [describe goods here (ex: Type K copper tube for potable water)], hereinafter referred to as “Goods;” and

WHEREAS, Union desires to purchase such Goods from Contractor on an as-needed basis; and

WHEREAS, Contractor is willing to provide such Goods to Union as described in this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto do each contract and agree with the other as follows:

1. GOODS PROVIDED. Contractor agrees to provide the Goods in accordance with the specifications in the attached Specifications [or, if the full IFB (or RFP) is to be attached, state the IFB # and IFB title]. Contractor shall provide the Goods on an as-needed basis, upon request by Union for such Goods. Union shall provide a purchase order number to Contractor prior to any Goods being delivered. Contractor shall not be required to provide installation services pursuant to this Agreement. Union does not guarantee the purchase of any minimum amount of Goods pursuant to this Agreement.

2. FEE AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE. Union shall pay Contractor for purchase of the Goods in accordance with the attached [“Appendix A – Price Form” (or whatever title was used on the pricing form in the solicitation)]. Contractor shall invoice Union for Goods after each delivery requested by Union has been completed pursuant to Section 1 herein. Contractor’s invoice must reference the purchase order number issued by Union. Payment is due within thirty

(30) days of receipt of an accurate invoice by Union’s Finance Department. All payments shall be conditioned upon appropriation by the Union County Board of Commissioners of sufficient funds for each request for services.

[Include this paragraph only if Union agrees to such potential increase over time, or if this provision is included in the IFB.] If the Agreement is renewed for additional terms in accordance with Section 4 herein, at the beginning of each renewal term, Contractor may adjust the prices listed in [Appendix A] based on the Consumer Price Index agreed upon by both Contractor and Union, limited to the amount of the CPI increase over the previous year.

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 2

3. DELIVERY SCHEDULE. Contractor shall ship requested Goods described in Section 1 herein FOB destination, Freight Prepaid, and delivery of such Goods shall be within ____________[length of time, as listed in the IFB] of the date Contractor receives Union’s order.

4. TERM AND TERMINATION. The Effective Date is the date of mutual execution of this Agreement. This Agreement shall have a term of [insert agreement time length]. [The following sentence is to be used only if renewals might be needed or desired, and then only if the IFB or RFP lists the possible number of renewals. If the contract is just for a single term, this sentence may be deleted.] Upon completion of the Initial Term, Union may, in its sole discretion, elect to renew this Agreement for up to ____[number of possible additional terms, as stated in the IFB or RFP] additional ___[number of years in each renewal term]-year terms, each a “Renewal Term,” upon written notice to the Contractor. Union may terminate this Agreement at any time, with or without cause, by notification to Contractor in writing. In the event of termination without cause, Contractor shall be paid for Goods delivered to the date of notification of termination by Union.

5. OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS. All deliverables and any other contract documents prepared by Contractor, or any subcontractors or subconsultants under the terms of this Agreement (“the Documents”), shall be the property of Union. Contractor further acknowledges that Union is subject to Chapter 132 of the North Carolina General Statutes, the Public Records Act (the “Act”), and that this Agreement, as well as any of the Documents as defined herein, shall be a public record as defined in such Act, and as such, will be open to public disclosure and copying.

6. INSURANCE. The attached Exhibit A, Insurance Requirements, is incorporated herein by reference.

7. INDEMNIFICATION. Contractor agrees to protect, defend, indemnify and hold Union, its officers, employees and agents free and harmless from and against any and all losses, penalties, damages, settlements, costs, charges, professional fees or other expenses or liabilities of every kind and character arising out of or relating to any and all claims, liens, demands, obligations, actions, proceedings, or causes of action of every kind in connection with or arising out of this Agreement and/or the performance hereof that are due, in whole or in part, to the negligence of Contractor, its officers, employees, subcontractors or agents. Contractor further agrees to investigate, handle, respond to, provide defense for, and defend the same at its sole expense and agrees to bear all other costs and expenses related thereto.

8. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL TAXES. Neither federal, nor state, nor local income tax nor payroll tax of any kind shall be withheld or paid by Union on behalf of Contractor or the employees of Contractor. Contractor shall not be treated as an employee with respect to the services performed hereunder for federal or state tax purposes.

9. NOTICE TO CONTRACTOR REGARDING ITS TAX DUTIES AND

LIABILITIES. Contractor understands that Contractor is responsible to pay, according to law, Contractor’s income tax. If Contractor is not a corporation, Contractor further understands that Contractor may be liable for self-employment (social security) tax, to be paid by Contractor according to law.

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 3

10. FRINGE BENEFITS. Because Contractor is engaged in Contractor’s own independently established business, Contractor is not eligible for, and shall not participate in, any employee pension, health or other fringe benefit plan of Union.

11. UNION NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION. No workers’ compensation insurance shall be obtained by Union concerning Contractor or the employees of Contractor. Contractor shall comply with the workers’ compensation law concerning Contractor and the employees of Contractor.

12. NO AUTHORITY TO BIND UNION. Contractor has no authority to enter into contracts or agreements on behalf of Union. This Agreement does not create a partnership or any form of agency between the parties.

13. ASSIGNMENT. Neither Union nor Contractor shall assign, sublet or transfer any rights under or interest in this Agreement (including, but without limitation, monies that may become due or monies that are due) without the written consent of the other, except to the extent that any assignment, subletting or transfer is mandated by law or the effect of this limitation may be restricted by law. Unless specifically stated to the contrary in any written consent to assignment, no assignment shall release or discharge the assignor from any duty or responsibility under this Agreement.

14. NON-WAIVER. The failure of either party to exercise any of its rights under this agreement for a breach thereof shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such rights or a waiver of any subsequent breach.

15. HOW NOTICES SHALL BE GIVEN. Any notice given in connection with this agreement shall be given in writing and shall be delivered either by hand to the party or by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the party at the party’s address stated herein. Any party may change its address stated herein by giving notice of the change in accordance with this paragraph.

16. APPLICABLE LAW AND JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina. The parties to this Agreement confer exclusive jurisdiction of all disputes arising hereunder upon the General Courts of Justice of Union County, North Carolina.

17. COMPLETE AGREEMENT. This Agreement contains the complete agreement of the parties regarding the terms and conditions of the Agreement, and there are no oral or written conditions, terms, warranties, understandings or other agreements pertaining thereto which have not been incorporated herein. This Agreement may be modified only by written instrument duly executed by both parties, or their respective successors in interest.

18. SEVERABILITY. The provisions hereof are severable, and should any provision be determined to be invalid, unlawful or otherwise null and void by any court of competent jurisdiction, the other provisions shall remain in full force and effect and shall not thereby be affected unless such ruling shall make further performance hereunder impossible or impose an unconscionable burden upon one of the parties.

19. AUTHORITY. Each party warrants that it has the corporate or other organizational power and authority to execute, deliver and perform this Agreement. Each party

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 4 further warrants that the execution, delivery and performance by it of the Agreement has been duly authorized and approved by all requisite action of the party’s management and appropriate governing body.

20. E-VERIFY. E-Verify is the federal program operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies, or any successor or equivalent program, used to verify the work authorization of newly hired employees pursuant to federal law. Contractor shall ensure that Contractor and any subcontractor performing work under this Agreement: (i) uses E-Verify if required to do so by North Carolina law; and (ii) otherwise complies with the requirements of Article 2 of Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General Statutes. A breach of this provision by Contractor will be considered a breach of this Agreement, which entitles Union to terminate this Agreement, without penalty, upon notice to Contractor.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, acting under authority of their respective governing bodies, have hereunto set their hands and seals, and have caused this Agreement to be duly executed, this the day and year first above written.

UNION COUNTY

BY: _____________________________(SEAL)

Brian W. Matthews, County Manager

[CONTRACTOR FULL LEGAL NAME]

BY: _____________________________(SEAL)

Approved as to Legal Form ____

This instrument has been preaudited in the manner required by

The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act.

Deputy Finance Officer

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 5

Exhibit A Insurance Requirements

I. BASIC INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS. At Contractor’s sole expense, Contractor shall procure and maintain the following minimum insurances with insurers authorized to do business in North Carolina and rated A-VII or better by A.M. Best, or as otherwise authorized by the Union County Risk Manager.

A. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Statutory (coverage for three or more employees) limits covering all employees, including Employer’s Liability with limits of:

$500,000 Each Accident $500,000 Disease - Each Employee $500,000 Disease - Policy Limit

B. COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY

Covering all operations involved in this Agreement.

$2,000,000 General Aggregate $2,000,000 Products/Completed Operations Aggregate $1,000,000 Each Occurrence $1,000,000 Personal and Advertising Injury Limit

C. COMMERCIAL AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY

$1,000,000 Combined Single Limit - Any Auto

D. PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

$1,000,000 Claims Made

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Professional

E. POLLUTION LIABILITY INSURANCE

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Pollution

Purchase of Goods (Updated 02.06.24) 6

F. NETWORK SECURITY & PRIVACY LIABILITY (CYBER)

$3,000,000 Aggregate Limit

Contractor shall provide evidence of continuation or renewal of Network Security

& Privacy Liability Insurance for a period of two (2) years following termination of the Agreement.

II. ADDITIONAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS.

A. The Contractor’s General Liability policy shall be endorsed, specifically or generally, to include the following as Additional Insured:

UNION COUNTY, ITS OFFICERS, AGENTS AND EMPLOYEES ARE

INCLUDED AS ADDITIONAL INSURED WITH RESPECT TO THE

GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY.

B. Before commencement of any work or event, Contractor shall provide a

Certificate of Insurance in satisfactory form as evidence of the insurances required above.

C. Contractor shall have no right of recovery or subrogation against Union County

(including its officers, agents and employees).

D. It is the intention of the parties that the insurance policies afforded by Contractor shall protect both parties and be primary and non-contributory coverage for any and all losses covered by the above-described insurance.

E. Union County shall have no liability with respect to Contractor’s personal property whether insured or not insured. Any deductible or self-insured retention is the sole responsibility of Contractor.

F. Notwithstanding the notification requirements of the Insurer, Contractor hereby agrees to notify County’s Risk Manager at 500 North Main Street, Monroe, NC 28112, within two (2) days of the cancellation or substantive change of any insurance policy set out herein. Union, in its sole discretion, may deem failure to provide such notice as a breach of this Agreement.

G. The Certificate of Insurance should note in the Description of Operations the following:

Department: _____________________ Contract #: _____________________

Purchase of Goods…