Notice_of_Public_Meetings.pdf

This Notice of Public Meetings document from Hillsborough County Public Schools Procurement Services Department announces the scheduling and posting location for all future public meetings related to the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program solicitation. The notice directs interested parties to the district's public notices webpage at https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/o/hcps/page/public-notices for updates on meeting information and details. A public meeting is scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM via Microsoft Teams videoconference to discuss solicitation requirements and FFVP objectives. The RFP was broadcast on February 11, 2026, with technical questions due by February 25, 2026, an addendum issued on February 26, 2026, and proposals due by March 11, 2026 through www.myvendorlink.com. The contract review is scheduled for March 12, 2026, with an estimated award date of August 4, 2026. The initial contract term runs from September 1, 2026, through May 1, 2027, with automatic renewal for up to four additional one-year periods subject to appropriation and performance.

The solicitation seeks qualified produce vendors to supply fresh, high-quality specialty fruits and vegetables to approximately 18 elementary school sites, with potential expansion to 20 schools in the 2026-2027 school year. Vendors must provide raw, pre-cut, pre-packaged produce items in 50-unit cases with a minimum of seven days remaining shelf life, delivered Mondays and Tuesdays between 6:00 AM and 2:30 PM. The contract employs a cost-plus fixed fee per case model with an estimated annual budget of $600,000, funded entirely by USDA grant awards. Core vendor requirements include a minimum of three years of experience in produce distribution, current Florida business license, GAP certification, monthly menu coordination, and weekly invoicing. Contractors must comply with extensive federal and state certifications, including USDA drug-free workplace requirements, debarment certifications, Buy American provisions with phased non-domestic food purchase caps, and Florida Statutes Section 287.138 requirements. Special delivery requirements include designation of two drivers with permanent MacDill Air Force Base passes for Tinker K-8 School. Contractors exceeding the $100,000 threshold are subject to Davis-Bacon Act wage standards and additional civil rights and environmental compliance requirements.