Invitation to Bid (ITB)

For

Operations & Maintenance Services for Wastewater Treatment Plants

ITB 2026001

Procurement Officer:

Sabina Flanagan

Purchasing Analyst, Department of Environmental Protection

Bureau of Procurement & Contracting Services - Procurement Section 3800 Commonwealth Blvd., MS #93

Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000 Email: Sabina.Flanagan@FloridaDEP.gov

Operations & Maintenance Services for Wastewater Treatment Plants

Rev. 7/30/2024

Table of Contents 1 Introduction

1.1 Solicitation Objective

1.2 Background and Program Information

1.3 Anticipated Contract Term & Renewals

1.4 Definitions

1.5 Draft Contract Terms

1.6 Procurement Officer

1.7 Special Accommodations

1.8 Timeline of Events

1.9 List of Attachments and Forms

2 ITB Process

2.1 Vendor Responsibilities

2.2 Who May Respond

2.3 Overview of the ITB

2.4 Conformance to Requirements

2.5 Limitation on Vendor Contact with Agency During Solicitation Period

2.6 Addenda/Amendments to the ITB

2.7 Contract Formation

2.8 Disclosure of Response Contents

2.9 Withdrawal of Responses

2.10 Administrative Cure Process

2.11 Clarification Process

2.12 Information from Other Sources

2.13 Firm Response

2.14 Right to Reject

2.15 Cancellation, Non-Award, and Withdrawal

2.16 Misrepresentations

2.17 Licensure & Registration

2.18 Replacement and Alternate Responses

2.19 Exclusivity

2.20 Diversity

2.21 Bid Protests

3 Response Instructions

3.1 MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Vendor Registration

3.2 Pre-Response Conferences and/or Site Visits

3.3 Submission of Responses

3.4 Response Content Requirements

3.5 Economy of Presentation

3.6 Confidential Response Materials and Redacted Submissions

4 Scope of Work

4.1 Scope of Work

4.2 Definitions

4.3 Contractor Responsibilities

4.4 Department’s Responsibilities

5 Award

5.1 Basis of Award

5.2 Florida-Based Business Preference

5.3 Award Preferences for Equal Scores (Ties)

5.4 Recommendation of Award

5.5 Posting of Decision

5.6 Execution of Contract [Delete if PO]

5.7 Failure to Perform the Contract

1 Introduction The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (the Department) hereby issues this Invitation to

Bid (ITB) to contract for Operations & Maintenance Services for Wastewater Treatment Plants. The

Solicitation will be administered through the Vendor Information Portal (VIP). Respondents interested in submitting a Response must comply with all of the terms and conditions described in this ITB.

1.1 Solicitation Objective

The Department intends to enter into a contract using the Attachment 1, Draft Contract, for Operations & Maintenance Services for Wastewater Treatment Plants, hereby incorporated by reference. The Department intends to make a single award, however the Department reserves the right to award to one Respondent or multiple Respondents, or to make no award, as determined to be in the best interest of the State.

1.2 Background and Program Information

The Division of Recreation and Parks, District 3, is seeking to establish a contract for operations and maintenance services for the wastewater treatment plants located at Blue Spring State Park and

Hontoon Island State Park, and for the lift stations at Blue Spring State Park, Hontoon Island State Park and Wekiwa Springs State Park. The service ensures the continued treatment and removal of wastewater from Blue Spring State Park, Hontoon Island State Park, and Wekiwa Springs State Park. The service ensures compliance with basic environmental and public health standards.

1.3 Anticipated Contract Term & Renewals

The initial term of the Contract will be three (3) year(s) with up to three (3) renewal year(s). At the discretion of the Department, the Contract may be renewed subject to the terms and conditions specified in the Contract.

1.4 Definitions

The “General Contract Conditions” Form PUR 1000 (PUR 1000) and “General Instructions to Respondents” Form PUR 1001 (PUR 1001), found in Rule 60A-1.002, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), are hereby incorporated by reference and can be accessed at:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state _purchasing_pur_forms. The following definitions apply to this ITB:

Business Days - Monday through Friday, inclusive, except for State government holidays.

Confidential Information - Any documents, data, or records that are confidential and not subject to disclosure pursuant to Chapter 119, Florida Statute (F.S.), the Florida Constitution, or any other authority.

Contract - The agreement that results from this competitive procurement, if any, between the Department and the Contractor.

Contractor(s) - The Respondent(s) that will be awarded a Contract pursuant to this Solicitation.

Respondent – an entity that submits a Response to this ITB.

State - The State of Florida.

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

1.5 Draft Contract Terms

Awarded Respondent(s) must provide the contractual services sought by this ITB in accordance with the terms, conditions, and Scope of Work detailed in the Contract. All Respondents should carefully review

Attachment 1, prior to submission of a Response. Any questions related to the Contract should be submitted as a formal question in accordance with the instructions contained in this ITB.

1.6 Procurement Officer

The Procurement Officer is the Department’s sole point of contact for information regarding this ITB from the date of release until an Agency Decision is posted on the VIP, at https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ in accordance with Section 2.3.1.2 below.

Refer ALL inquiries in writing to the Procurement Officer by email. Responses to timely questions posed to the Procurement Officer will be posted on the VIP, at https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ in accordance with Section 2.3.1.2 below.

The Department will not talk to any Respondents or their agents regarding a pending solicitation.

Questions will NOT be answered via telephone.

1.7 Special Accommodations

Any person requiring a special accommodation due to a disability should contact the Department’s Procurement Officer. Requests for accommodation for meetings must be made at least five (5) Business Days prior to the meeting.

1.8 Timeline of Events

The following schedule will be strictly adhered to in all actions relative to this Solicitation. The Department reserves the right to modify this schedule and will notify participants in the Solicitation by posting an addendum to this Solicitation on VIP. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to check VIP on a regular basis for such updates.

Event Date Time* Location/Method

ITB Advertised 2/9/26 N/A Vendor Information Portal

Optional Pre-Response Site Visit - 1 2/24/26 9:00 AM

Hontoon Island State Park, 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand FL 32720;

Optional Pre-Response Site Visit - 2 2/24/26 TBD Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W.

French Ave., Orange City FL 32763;

Optional Pre-Response Site Visit - 3 02/25/26 9:00 AM Wekiwa Springs State Park, 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka FL 32712

Questions Due 3/9/26 5:00 PM Email to Procurement Officer

Answers Posted (Anticipated) On or about:

3/16/26 Vendor Information Portal https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

Responses Due 3/30/26 3:00 PM

Department of Environmental Protection DEP Procurement Section, Room 215 3800 Commonwealth Blvd, MS93 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000

Public Opening 3/31/26 10:00 AM

Teleconference by calling 1-850-629-

Phone Conference ID: 490 403 149# The number will be active 5 minutes before the meeting

Award Date (Anticipated) On or about:

4/15/26 Vendor Information Portal

*All times are Eastern Time Zone.

1.9 List of Attachments and Forms

The Attachments and Forms below are incorporated by reference. Copies of these documents are available in the VIP advertisement that accompanies the ITB posting. If a Form requires electronic completion or filling in, such as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, an electronic copy can be obtained by contacting the Procurement Officer.

Attachment Title

1 Draft Contract

Form Title

A Business Response Form

B -RESERVED-

C -RESERVED-

D Price Sheet

E Award Preference Form

G Forced Labor Attestation Form (PUR 2024)

2 ITB Process

2.1 Vendor Responsibilities

Vendors should carefully read the entire ITB, all attachments, and any addenda before submitting a

Response. Vendors interested in submitting a Response must comply with all instructions, terms, and conditions of this ITB to be considered for Award.

Vendors are responsible for understanding all terms and conditions of this ITB, its attachments, addenda, and proposed resulting Contract. If a Vendor does not understand these requirements, Vendor should submit formal questions to the Department in accordance with Section 2.3.1.2.

2.2 Who May Respond

Vendors who possess the financial capability, experience, and personnel resources described in this ITB are invited to submit Responses. Vendors on the Convicted, Suspended, Discriminatory Vendor List(s), the Antitrust Violator Vendor List(s), and/or the Scrutinized List(s) of Prohibited Companies may not submit a Response.

2.3 Overview of the ITB

The ITB is a method of competitively soliciting a commodity or contractual service under Chapter 287, F.S. The ITB process involves three phases: Solicitation, Minimum Mandatory Requirement Review and

Evaluation.

2.3.1 Solicitation Phase

2.3.1.1 Pre-Response Conference and Site Visit (If Applicable)

The Department may hold an optional or mandatory pre-response conference or site visit as part of the process as indicated in Section 3.2.

Anyone attending a pre-response conference or site visit is required to register their attendance in a means provided by the Department at the time and location of the meeting. Respondents who fail to attend or who are not represented at a mandatory conference or site visit will be determined Non-

Responsive.

Note: Any answers to questions given at any conferences or site visits are not binding and do not alter the ITB. Only questions submitted in accordance with the instructions below and answered on the VIP are considered binding.

2.3.1.2 Question and Answer Period

Respondents may submit questions regarding the terms, conditions, and requirements of the ITB to the

Procurement Officer via email by the deadline listed in the Timeline, Section 1.8 of the ITB.

Questions will not constitute a formal protest of the specifications or of the Solicitation. Answers to questions will be posted on the VIP.

All emails shall have the Solicitation number in the subject line. The Department recommends that questions be submitted in the following format:

ITB Section ITB Page # Question

2.3.1.3 Submission of Responses

Once the Department posts the answers to the questions, Respondents may begin submitting

Responses as indicated in Section 3.4; however, Respondents are encouraged to submit their Responses no earlier than five (5) days prior to the submission deadline. Responses must be submitted by the deadline listed in the Timeline above.

2.3.1.4 Public Opening

The Department will open the Responses in a public meeting at the date, time, and location noted in the

Timeline, Section 1.8. The Procurement Officer will review the entire Response to ensure that all required volumes were timely submitted, however prices will not be read aloud at the public opening.

2.3.2 Minimum Mandatory Requirement Review Phase

2.3.2.1 Administrative Review

All responses will be reviewed by the Procurement Officer to ensure that Responses contain all mandatory forms and are complete. Complete Responses may be sent to the Program Area for their qualifications review, if any.

2.3.2.2 Responsibility Review

The Department will review the Responsibility section of the Respondent’s Business Response Form, Form A, for affirmative responses and attached documentation, if any. Answers in the affirmative are not, in themselves, grounds for declaring a vendor as Non-Responsible; the Department may seek additional clarification and decide whether the circumstances of the case warrant declaring a

Respondent Non-Responsible. Respondents deemed Non-Responsible are not eligible for Contract

Award.

2.3.2.3 Qualifications Review (if any)

If the Department requires the Respondents to submit documentation as evidence of qualifications, the Department will review said documentation to ensure it supports the minimum qualifications outlined in Section 1.2.

2.3.3 Evaluation Phase

Price Sheet Evaluation

The Procurement Officer will review and compare the Price Sheets of the Respondents who are determined to be responsible and develop the recommendation of award based on the lowest total price (LTP) as described on the Price Sheet, Form D. Form D must be completed, signed, and submitted without alteration as part of a response. Respondents must not submit their own forms, including quote forms or other documents, in lieu of Form D. Please see Section 2.4, Conformance to

Requirements, below.

2.4 Conformance to Requirements

In order to be considered for Award, Responses submitted to the Department must conform in all material aspects to the requirements set forth in this ITB, including the requirement set forth in Form D, Price Sheet. Responses failing to conform in all material aspects to the requirements included in this ITB, including the requirement set forth in Form D, Price Sheet are Non-Responsive and are not eligible for

Award, at the sole discretion of the Department.

This is an invitation to bid. The Response must not include any proposal to negotiate, or any proposed terms and conditions that supersede, conflict with, take exception to, supplement, or materially change, the terms and conditions set forth in this ITB or the documents that will comprise the Contract. Any questions regarding the terms, conditions, or requirements of this ITB or the Contract can be raised during the Question and Answer Period described in Section 2.3.1.2 of this ITB. Respondents that fail to comply with the requirements of this paragraph may, at the sole discretion of the Department, be deemed to be Non-Responsive.

2.5 Limitation on Vendor Contact with Agency During Solicitation Period Respondents to this Solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the Solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the agency posting the notice of intended award, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays, any employee or officer of the executive or legislative branch concerning any aspect of this Solicitation, except in writing to the Procurement Officer or as provided in the Solicitation documents. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a

Response.

2.6 Addenda/Amendments to the ITB

The Department reserves the right to modify this ITB by issuing addenda and/or amendments. All changes to the ITB will be made through addenda or amendments posted on the VIP. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to check for any changes on the VIP. Issuance of written Addenda and/or amendments is the only method by which a solicitation may be modified.

2.7 Contract Formation

The Department will issue a notice of award, if any, to successful Respondent(s). No contract shall be formed between the Department and the awarded Respondent until both parties sign the Contract. The Department will not be liable for any costs incurred by a Respondent in preparing or producing its Response or for any work performed before the Contract is effective.

The Contract will consist of the Draft Contract as attached, which will incorporate the Scope of Work/Technical Specifications, below in Section 4, relevant portions of the Response submitted by the awarded Respondent (if any), and the Price Sheet submitted by the awarded Respondent. If there is any discrepancy between the Scope of Work/Technical Specifications and the incorporated relevant portions of the Response, the terms most favorable to the Department shall prevail.

The Department objects to and shall not consider any additional terms or conditions submitted by a Respondent, including any appearing in documents attached as part of a Response, except those identified in the Contract. The Respondent shall bring any perceived inconsistencies among any of the provisions of the ITB and its attachments to the attention of the Department prior to the submission of its Response. At any time during the Solicitation, the Department may specifically identify and incorporate by reference any additional documents which are to be incorporated into the Contract. The Contract that results from this Solicitation will be posted on the Florida Accountability Contract Tracking System (FACTS) website in accordance with section 215.985, F.S., “Transparency Florida Act.”

2.8 Disclosure of Response Contents

All documentation produced as part of the ITB will become the exclusive property of the Department and will not be returned to the Respondent unless it is withdrawn prior to the Response opening in accordance with Section 2.9. Once the Procurement Officer opens the Response, the Response may be disclosed pursuant to a public records request, subject to any confidentiality claims and the timeframes identified in section 119.071(1)(b), F.S.

2.9 Withdrawal of Responses

The Respondent may withdraw or modify a Response at any time prior to the due date by submitting a request to the Procurement Officer.

2.10 Administrative Cure Process

In the interest of maximizing competition, the Response qualification and cure process seeks to minimize, if not eliminate, Respondent disqualifications resulting from nonmaterial, curable deficiencies in the Response that are identified in the Minimum Mandatory Review Phase. Therefore, the Department may, in its sole discretion, notify Respondents whose qualifying information or documentation does not meet the requirements of the ITB and allow for the correction of errors and omissions prior to making a final determination of responsiveness. Timely cures made pursuant to this section will be accepted by the Department.

2.11 Clarification Process

The Department may request clarification from the Respondent for the purpose of resolving ambiguities or questioning information presented in the Response. Clarifications may be requested throughout the Solicitation process. The Respondent’s answers to requested clarifications must be in writing and must address only the information requested. Respondent’s answers to requested clarifications must be submitted to the Department within the time specified by the Department in the requested clarification.

2.12 Information from Other Sources

The Department reserves the right to seek information from outside sources regarding the Respondent, the Respondent’s offerings, capabilities, references, and the Respondent’s performance, if the Department determines that such information is pertinent to the ITB. The Department may consider such information throughout the Solicitation process including, but not limited to, determining whether the award is ultimately in the best interest of the State. This may include, but is not limited to, the Department engaging consultants, subject matter experts, and others to ensure that the Department has a complete understanding of the information provided pursuant to the Solicitation.

2.13 Firm Response

The Department may make an award within one hundred and eighty (180) days after the date of the opening, during which period responses shall remain firm and shall not be withdrawn. If award is not made within one hundred and eighty (180) days, the Response shall remain firm until either the

Department awards the Contract, or the Department receives from the Respondent written notice that the Response is withdrawn. Any response that expresses a shorter duration may, in the Department's sole discretion, be accepted or rejected.

2.14 Right to Reject

The Department may reject any Response not submitted in the manner specified by the Solicitation documents. Respondents whose past performance, current status, or Response does not reflect the capability, integrity, or reliability to fully, and in good faith, perform the requirements of Contract may be rejected as Non-Responsible and are not eligible for Award.

2.15 Cancellation, Non-Award, and Withdrawal

When the Department determines that is it in the best interest of the State, it reserves the right to:

• Cancel this Solicitation.

• Make no Award and reject all responses.

• Withdraw the Solicitation at any time, including after an award is made.

• Withdraw or amend its Notice of Award at any time prior to execution of a contract, including, but not limited to situations in which the Contractor(s) fails to execute the contract.

• Re-procure services.

2.16 Misrepresentations

All information submitted, and all representations made, by the Respondent in a response may be relied upon by the Department in determining Responsibility of a Respondent for Award. Any misstatement or omission, whether intentional or not, may be treated by the Department as a fraudulent concealment of the true facts relating to the Response. Such misrepresentation will be a basis for the Department to disqualify the Respondent as Non-Responsible, and bar the Respondent from participation in any re-solicitation pertaining to this subject matter (regardless of whether the re-solicitation resulted from

Respondent’s misrepresentation) and may be punishable under law, including, but not limited to, Chapter 817, F.S.

2.17 Licensure & Registration

Prior to the execution of a Contract, the selected Respondent must be properly licensed to do business within the State, and all entities must be appropriately registered with the Florida Department of State, if required by federal or state law.

2.18 Replacement and Alternate Responses

The Department will only consider one (1) Response per Respondent, unless otherwise indicated in

Section 3. Respondents may submit revised Responses at any time prior to the Response Due Date as specified in the Timeline of Events. Revised Responses must include a statement, signed and dated by an

Authorized Signatory, withdrawing all prior Responses from the Respondent. Alternate commodities and/or contractual services may be proposed only if permitted in accordance with the instructions contained in this Solicitation. The Department is under no obligation to consider alternate commodities and/or contractual services to those requested in this Solicitation if not specifically requested as part of a Response and may reject a Response making such offers as Non-Responsive.

2.19 Exclusivity

This Solicitation will not result in an exclusive license to provide the commodities and/or contractual services described in this Solicitation or the resulting Contract. The Department may, in compliance with applicable laws, contract with other vendors to provide the same or similar commodities and/or contractual services if the Department determines that doing so will serve the State’s best interests.

2.20 Diversity

The State is dedicated to fostering the continued development and economic growth of minority-owned, veteran-owned, and woman-owned businesses. Participation of a diverse group of Respondents doing business with the Department is central to the State’s effort.

The Office of Supplier Development (OSD) has been established within the Florida Department of

Management Services (DMS) to certify qualifying minority-owned, veteran-owned, and woman-owned business enterprises (CBEs). CBEs are encouraged to participate in the State’s procurement process as both prime Respondents and subcontractors. Non-CBE Respondents are encouraged to partner with

CBEs for Contract performance.

2.21 Bid Protests

Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in section 120.57(3), F. S., or failure to post the bond or other security required by law within the time allowed for filing a bond shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

Documents received after normal working hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time) will be filed the following business day.

All filings must be made with the Agency Clerk ONLY and are only considered "filed" when stamped, physically or digitally, by the Agency Clerk. It is the responsibility of the filing party to meet all filing deadlines.

The Agency Clerk's address is:

Agency Clerk, Office of General Counsel Department of Environmental Protection 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, Douglas Building, MS#35 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000 Email: Agency_clerk@floridadep.gov mailto:Agency_clerk@floridadep.gov

3 Response Instructions This section contains the General Instructions and Special Instructions to Respondents. The “General Instructions to Respondents” Form PUR 1001 is incorporated by reference and can be accessed at https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state _purchasing_pur_forms.

The terms of the PUR1001 are controlling for this ITB, except for the following sections, which are inapplicable:

Section 3. Electronic Submission of Responses Responses shall be submitted in accordance with Section 3.4 of this Solicitation.

Section 5. Questions Questions shall be submitted in accordance with Section 2.3.1.2 of this Solicitation.

Section 14. Firm Response.

This paragraph is superseded by Section 2.13 of this Solicitation.

Section 15. Clarifications/Revisions.

This paragraph is superseded by Section 2.11 of this Solicitation.

Section 16. Minor Irregularities/Right to Reject.

This paragraph is superseded by sections 2.10 and 2.14 of this Solicitation.

Section 17. Contract Formation.

This paragraph is superseded by Section 2.7 of this Solicitation.

Section 20. Protests.

This paragraph is superseded by Section 2.21 of this Solicitation.

3.1 MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Vendor Registration

Prior to execution of the Contract by the Department, the Contractor must be registered with MFMP.

Information about the registration process is available on, and registration may be completed at https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/.

Prospective vendors who do not have internet access may request assistance from MFMP Customer Service within DMS.

The following United Nations Standard Products and Services Code(s) (UNSPSC) are provided to assist potential Respondents in their registration efforts:

Code Title

40151500 Pumps

47101500 Water and wastewater treatment supply and disposal https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms

72154100 Distribution and conditioning system equipment maintenance and repair services

76121701 Sewage treatment services

83101506 Water treatment services

3.2 Pre-Response Conferences and/or Site Visits

The Department will hold three (3) optional Pre-Response Site Visits for Respondents to better understand the Scope of Work. The Optional Pre-Response Site Visits shall be held at the time and dates identified in Section 1.8 - Timeline of Events.

Optional Site Visit #1 – Hontoon Island State Park

Prospective Bidders will report to Hontoon Island State Park at 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand FL 32720.

The Contract Manager, Park and the District 3 Office staff shall conduct the site visit and provide further instructions upon arrival and at the conclusion of this site visit.

Optional Site Visit #2 –Blue Spring State Park

This site visit will begin directly after Optional Site Visit #1 ends. Prospective Bidders will report to Blue

Spring State Park at 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City FL 32763. The Contract Manager, Park and the

District 3 Office staff shall conduct the site visit and provide further instructions upon arrival.

Optional Site Visit #3 – Wekiwa Springs State Park

Prospective Bidders will report to Wekiwa Springs State Park at 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka FL 32712.

The Contract Manager, Park and the District 3 Office staff shall conduct the site visit at Wekiwa Springs

State Park. Prospective Bidders shall meet the Department staff in the parking lot behind Ranger Station.

The Bidder shall notify the Procurement Officer of their plans to attend any of the optional site visits via email. The email must be received at least two (2) business days prior to the date of the optional site visit as provided in Section 1.8 - Timeline of Events.

Prospective Bidders should allow enough time to arrive, park, walk, and gain entry to the site to ensure that they arrive prior to the applicable optional Pre-Response Site Visit time, as set out by Section 1.8

Timeline of Events.

Any person requiring special accommodation due to a disability should contact the Department’s

Procurement Officer. Requests for accommodation for this optional Pre-Response Site Visit must be made at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled Site Visit.

Any responses to questions asked during this time shall not be considered binding. Only questions submitted in accordance with Section 2.3.1.2 and answered on the VIP are considered binding.

3.3 Submission of Responses

Respondents shall deliver Responses to the Department’s office designated in the Timeline of Events before the date and time specified. Any Response that is received after the exact time specified in the

Timeline of Events is late. Late Responses, as well as Responses submitted through email or by facsimile, are Non-Responsive and will not be evaluated. All Response materials must be packaged so that each box shipped to the Department does not exceed 25 pounds.

Response packages must be marked to show the Respondent's name and address, the Solicitation number, and the date and time Responses are due. If multiple packages are shipped, package sequences

(i.e. 1 of 3, 2 of 4, etc.) must also be indicated on the outside of the package.

3.4 Response Content Requirements

Respondent’s Responses must be submitted in hard and electronic copies divided into volumes containing the information specified below:

Volume Name Copies

Volume I Business Response One (1) Original

Volume II Price Sheet One (1) Original

CD/DVD/USB Electronic Copy of Response One (1) copy of each Volume

CD/DVD/USB Redacted Electronic Copy of Response (if applicable)

One (1) Redacted copy of each Volume

3.4.1 Volume I, Business Response

Respondents must prepare a Business Response volume in the order outlined below.

Volume I Business Response Page Limit

Tab A Executive Summary Two (2)

Tab B Required Forms None

3.4.1.1 Tab A: Executive Summary

Respondents must prepare and include an Executive Summary that summarizes the key points from the

Respondent’s Business. The Executive Summary must begin with company/division’s street address; and size of business, CBEs status, and a summary of the key points from the Respondent’s Response. If the

Respondent is a current or former Contractor to the Department, the Respondent will notify the

Department of the contract number and the Department’s contract manager in its Executive Summary.

3.4.1.2 Tab B: Required Forms

Respondents must complete and submit Form A, Business Response Form and Form G – Forced Labor

Attestation Form (PUR 2024).

3.4.2 Volume II, Price Sheet

The Respondent must complete and submit the Form D, Price Sheet, without alteration, using the instructions provided. The Price Sheet is to be organized as directed on the Form and must contain complete responses to all items. If a portion of any section is omitted, the Price Sheet may be deemed non-Responsive at the sole discretion of the Department. The Respondent must not submit their own forms, including quote forms or other documents, in lieu of Form D.

3.5 Economy of Presentation

Responses must be prepared simply and economically, providing a straightforward, concise delineation of the Respondent’s capabilities to satisfy the requirements of this Solicitation without the use of marketing materials, white papers, fancy or flashy graphics, case studies, or other promotional materials. The emphasis of each Response should be on completeness and clarity of content.

3.6 Confidential Response Materials and Redacted Submissions

In addition to the public records requirements of the PUR 1001, section 19, if the Respondent considers any portion of its Response to be Confidential Information or exempt under Chapter 119, F.S., or other authority (Public Records Law), then the Respondent must simultaneously provide the Department with an unredacted version of the materials and a separate redacted copy of the materials the Respondent claims as Confidential Information or exempt and in an index, as described in Section 3.6.1.

The Respondent shall mark the unredacted version of the document as “Unredacted version – contains Confidential Information” and place such information in an encrypted electronic form or a sealed separate envelope.

3.6.1 Redacted Submissions

If submitting a redacted version of its Response, the Respondent shall mark the cover of the redacted copy with the Respondent’s name, Department’s solicitation name, and number, and the words “Redacted Copy.” The Redacted Copy should only redact those portions of material that the Respondent claims are Confidential Information or exempt from Public Records Law. An entire Response should not be redacted. An entire page or paragraph which contains Confidential Information or exempt material should not be redacted unless the entire page or paragraph is wholly Confidential Information or exempt from Public Records Law. In the Redacted Copy, the Respondent shall redact and maintain in confidence any materials the Department provides or seeks regarding security of a proposed technology system or information subject to sections 119.011(14), 119.071(1)(f), and 119.071(3), F.S.

In addition, the Respondent should submit a separate index listing the Confidential Information or exempt portions of its Response. The index should briefly describe in writing the grounds for claiming exemption from the Public Records Law, including the specific statutory citation for such exemption.

The Redacted Copy will be used to fulfill public records and other disclosure requests and will be posted on the FACTS website. In addition, the Department will follow the procedures described in Attachment 4, Public Records Requirements, of the Draft Contract.

By submitting a Response, the Respondent agrees to protect, defend, and indemnify the Department for any and all claims arising from or relating to the Respondent’s determination that the redacted portions of its Response are Confidential Information or otherwise not subject to disclosure. If the Respondent fails to submit a Redacted Copy of its Response, the Department is authorized to produce the entire unredacted Response submitted to the Department in response to a public records request.

4 Scope of Work

4.1 Scope of Work

The Contractor shall provide Operations and Maintenance Services for the Wastewater Treatment Plants located at Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763; Hontoon Island State Park, 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL 32720; and the Lift Stations at Wekiwa Springs State Park, 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712.

4.2 Definitions

In this Contract, the following terms shall be defined as set forth below:

Class C - Certified Plant Operator – Refers to an individual that meets the FDEP requirements to safely operate a wastewater treatment plant and has passed the state exam and has the required license.

Operating Permit – Refers to the FDEP required permit to operate the wastewater treatment facility.

WWTP – Wastewater Treatment Plant

O & M – Operations and Maintenance Manual

SOP – Standard Operating Procedures

BMAP - Basin Management Action Plan

4.3 Contractor Responsibilities

a. Deliverables. The Contractor shall provide the following deliverables:

1. Deliverable 1: Wastewater Treatment Plant and Effluent Disposal Systems Operations The Contractor shall provide Wastewater Treatment Plant and Effluent Disposal Systems Operations at the following locations: Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763 and Hontoon Island State Park, 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL 32720.

During, but not limited to, the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST., the Contractor shall provide five (5) routine service visits per week to each plant, and routine maintenance which does not require additional charges and extensive labor beyond three (3) hours per visit. The work shall be performed by a Class C - Certified Plant Operator. The Contractor shall provide all personnel, labor, services, material, replacement parts, chemicals, equipment, permits, and licenses necessary to perform the tasks required under the Contract. These tasks shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following:

A. Comply with all conditions specified within Exhibit J - Operating Permits, Exhibit K – Operations and Maintenance Manual, Exhibit L - WWTP Manual, and Exhibit M - Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), as attached to, and hereby incorporated by reference into, the Contract.

B. Comply with all Department rules, Florida Statutes, County and local regulations pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the wastewater facility, systems of treatment control, and related appurtenances.

C. Notify the Department (Contract Manager and the District 3 Office), in writing, of any changes in Department rules, Florida Statutes, County and local regulations as they apply to plant permitting and operations.

D. Maintain a working knowledge of all permit requirements, Department rules, BMAP requirements, Florida Statues, County and local regulations that affect the above-referenced State Parks wastewater facilities.

E. Advise and make recommendations to the Department on matters concerning the operation of the facilities and provide written or verbal notification to the Department of all deficiencies encountered that may result in a notice of non-compliance or an operating permit violation.

This notification shall include the observation of the deficiencies, recommended corrections, and cost estimates. Said notification shall be delivered to the Contract Manager for District review and approval. Notice shall be delivered either via email or written letter delivered to the District 3 Office, located at 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712. If the Department receives a notice of non-compliance or of a potential violation, written notice shall be given to the Contractor.

F. Provide and maintain on-site records as required by the Permit’s conditions, and submit supplemental copies of record documents and Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMR’s) to the Department’s Contract Manager.

G. Inspect and maintain each facility’s equipment, practices, and operations regulated or required by the Permit conditions.

H. Perform all other routine operation and maintenance tasks for each facility to include, but not be limited to, the following:

i. Supply all parts and materials necessary to operate and maintain the sample pumps in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations. The operation, maintenance and periodic replacement of the sample pumps along with associated materials, equipment, labor, and parts required for such maintenance shall be solely the Contractor’s responsibility including all costs incurred. If equipment failure results from non-maintenance of this equipment, the Contractor shall replace such equipment upon written pre-approval by the Department with equipment of the same or equivalent specifications at the Contractor’s expense.

ii. Supply all necessary parts, materials, and chemicals, such as chlorine solution, reagents, tubing, etc.

iii. Supply all necessary parts, materials, and equipment necessary to operate and maintain the flow meter in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations.

Monitor and record daily flows in gallons per minute and per day. Calibration and maintenance of the flow meter shall be performed annually. The operation and maintenance of the flow meter shall be the Contractor’s responsibility. If equipment failure results from non-maintenance/neglect of the equipment, the Contractor shall replace such equipment upon written approval by the Department with equipment with equivalent specifications at the Contractor’s expense.

iv. Replace motor/blower belts when required (labor and parts furnished by Contractor).

v. Clean and replace blower filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

vi. Repair minor electrical and plumbing problems along with associated materials, equipment, labor and parts required for such maintenance. The repairs and cost of the repairs is the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

vii. Maintain proper adjustments of all apparatus controls.

viii. Record the PH effluent daily.

ix. Maintain the air supply to all required components of the treatment plant. The Contractor shall individually check and clean all air diffusers and skimmers as required and make the necessary adjustments to the aeration as required to maintain the plant at an optimum treatment efficiency level.

x. Maintain good housekeeping of the facility and remove all unsightly debris and materials from the facility area(s) within the park on a regular basis.

xi. Transfer sludge as required to various plant components and concentrate into the digester as necessary to ensure the plant is operating efficiently.

xii. Check and record sludge return rates daily.

xiii. Check effluent three-way diversion valve operation daily.

xiv. Provide all sludge removal services with a maximum of ten (10) removals annually, estimating 5,000 gallons per removal with a maximum total gallons of 50,000 gallons per year. Any additional removals beyond the required contractual ten (10) removals shall require the Department’s written approval. The Contractor shall notify the Department when such additional removals are anticipated. The cost breakdown for any removals beyond the ten cited above shall consist of the total actual cost to the Contractor plus a 15% handling charge. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for all sludge removal services and any required testing. The Contractor shall submit a copy of all invoices to the Department after each sludge removal service.

xv. Provide for emergency standby-pumping services for each facility (inclusive of all necessary equipment, materials, and labor), if an unusual occurrence makes it necessary to immediately pump out a plant to prevent untreated wastewater from improperly escaping into the environment. The Contractor shall perform this function to the best of the Contractor’s ability considering the circumstances surrounding the unusual occurrence.

I. Provide sampling, testing, test results, and monitoring of any substances or parameters at any location reasonably necessary to ensure compliance with the permit conditions/requirements or the Department rules.

J. Taking all reasonable efforts to ensure that the Department is in compliance with Department rules, Florida Statutes, County or local regulations. The Contractor shall inform the Department immediately by phone and follow-up with an email upon recognition of a potential problem.

K. Maintain a copy of the current Operating Permit on site of each location.

L. Maintain monitoring and recordkeeping on-site as required by the Permit conditions, Department rules, County and local regulations.

2. Deliverable 2: Lift Station Maintenance and Operation The Contractor shall provide Lift Station Maintenance and Operation at the following locations: Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763 (Three (3) lift stations); Hontoon Island State Park, 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL 32720 (Three (3) lift stations); and Wekiwa Springs State Park. 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL 32720 (Eight (8) lift stations).

During, but not limited to, the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Contractor shall provide one (1) routine service visit per week spending approximately (30) thirty minutes at each lift station. The service must be performed by a Class C - Certified Plant Operator. The Contractor shall provide all personnel, labor, parts, and equipment necessary to perform the tasks required under the Contract.

These tasks shall include, but shall not limited to the following:

A. Check for proper operation of control panels and pumps.

B. Run amperage reading on monitors.

C. Check float switches operations.

D. Check alarm functions.

E. Check valve pit assembly for proper operation.

F. Record elapsed time meters.

G. Troubleshoot and make minor repairs to equipment as necessary.

H. Perform all other routine operation and maintenance tasks for all lift stations as part of the monthly service, and included in the monthly fee, that shall include but shall not limited to supplying all necessary parts and materials to operate and maintain all lift stations and force main systems. The operation and maintenance of the entire sewage collection/transmission system (Fourteen 14 lift stations and force main system) along with associated materials, equipment, labor, and parts required for such maintenance shall be solely the Contractor’s responsibility including all costs incurred. If equipment failure results from non-maintenance of this equipment, the Contractor shall replace such equipment with the same or equivalent specifications at the Contractor’s expense.

3. Deliverable 3: Major Repairs

The Contractor shall perform necessary major repairs as authorized by the Department. For the purposes of this Contract the definition of a major repair is any repair that is reasonably expected to exceed $1,000.00. If a major repair is expected to be required for any of the wastewater plants or lift stations, the Contractor must provide a written proposal of recommended/required repairs as necessary to assure that the facility is operating properly and efficiently in accordance with all requirements of the Department, the Operating Permit, and local regulations. The Department or its authorized representative will make the determination if the repair will be authorized, in writing, for the Contractor to perform.

4. Deliverable 4: Emergency Services

The Contractor shall perform emergency services and repairs as authorized by the Department. The Department shall contact the Contractor immediately when an emergency call is needed. The Contractor shall respond to an emergency call within four (4) hours from the initial call and propose or recommend to the Department services or repairs to address the emergency. The Contractor shall notify the Department immediately in the event of a facility emergency. The Contractor shall invoice the Department for after-hours, weekend, and holiday authorized emergency work based on the applicable rates specified on the Price Sheet.

5. Deliverable 5: Additional Services

When requested by the Department, the Contractor will advise and recommend in writing, any needed additional work related to the services described by this Scope of Work. After services are received and approved by the Department, the Contractor shall invoice the Department for authorized work at the rates for Major Repairs specified on the Price Sheet.

b. Performance Measures.

The Department’s Contract Manger will review the services outlined in this Scope of Work, to ensure Contractor is in compliance with the facility Operating Permit and Chapter 403, F.S., Chapter 99-395, Laws of Florida, and 62-600, 62-601, 62-604, 62-610, 62-611, and 62-640, F.A.C. All work performed by the Contractor must be provided to the satisfaction of the Department.

c. Invoicing and Payment.

The Contractor shall invoice the Department for outstanding balances on a monthly basis for operating and maintenance services at the rates as specified on the Price Sheet. The Contractor shall include emergency services and any other reimbursement charges on their monthly invoices. If emergency services or other charges are received, the invoice must reflect those services at the rates specified on the Price Sheet. Invoices shall include the proper documentation, for example: receipts for expenses/charges for cost reimbursement, to reflect the emergency services received and/or the other expenses/charges listed.

d. Enforcement.

1. Corrective Action. If the Department is cited or notified about deficiencies as a result of the Contractor’s inability to perform the facility (plant, collection/transmission, reclaimed water and disposal systems) operations in accordance with the Contract, the Contractor shall assume 100% responsibility for incurred expenses related to any and all corrective measures deemed necessary to return the facility into compliance on behalf of the Department.

2. Financial Consequences. Time is of the essence for the Contractor’s provision of emergency services. In addition to any other financial consequences provided for by the Contract, pursuant to section 287.058(1)(h), F.S., , the Department shall assess a $50.00 per hour charge to the Contractor for each hour, or portion thereof, to be prorated at the beginning of each (15) minute interval beyond the allowable time period, during which the Contractor has not appropriately responded.

The total amount of this assessment shall be charged against the total invoice for the emergency service call.

4.4 Department’s Responsibilities

The Department’s responsibilities are listed below:

1. The Department shall be responsible for the contract’s lifecycle management. This includes the preparation, solicitation, administration, and closing out of the contract.

2. The Department shall be responsible for performance oversight which includes inspection and acceptance of deliverables.

3. The Department shall be responsible for technical oversight, management, and administrative activities necessary to ensure the services are received in accordance with the Scope of Work.

Financial oversight, which includes reviewing, approving and processing invoices for payment.

Invoices shall be paid within fifteen (15) calendar days after receiving a correct and error-free invoice, which contains the proper…