On-Call_Emergency_Shelter_Beds_and_Case_Management_for_Adult_Human_Trafficking_Victim-Survivors.pdf

County of San Mateo

Request for Proposals (RFP) for On-Call Emergency Shelter

Beds and Case Management for Adult Human Trafficking

Victim-Survivors

County Executive's Office

RFP No. 2026-RFP-00519

RFP Contact: Lena Silberman lsilberman@smcgov.org

1. Introduction and Schedule

The County of San Mateo (the “County” or “SMC”) covers most of the San Francisco Peninsula. The region covers 744 mi and is home to nearly 800,000 residents and 20 incorporated cities. The County provides for the health and welfare of all people within its borders and serves as the local government for the unincorporated areas. Innovation thrives here in industries including bioscience, computer software, green technology, hospitality, financial management, health care, education and transportation. The

County prides itself on how that prosperity fosters its commitment to protecting and enhancing the health, safety, welfare and natural resources of the community.

1.1. Summary

As outlined in the Scope of Work, the County of San Mateo seeks highly qualified contractors to provide on-call emergency and interim shelter beds and comprehensive case management services within their existing facilities and frameworks for victim-survivors of human trafficking (referred to in this RFP as

"clients", "victims", or "victim-survivors"), including during and following sting operations and enforcement actions. Placement lengths will vary based on individual need. Some clients may require only short-term emergency shelter, while others may need an extended stay of up to one year or until they have achieved sufficient stability to transition safely to other stable housing.

This procurement covers both sex trafficking and labor trafficking victim-survivors, including adults of all gender identities and expressions. However, if an agency only provides services to a certain subset of human trafficking victim-survivors, they are still invited to apply. All applicants must be committed to inclusive, equitable, and trauma-informed services.

1.2. Background

San Mateo County (SMC) has identified human trafficking as a significant public safety and public health issue. SMC hosts SFO international airport, the 10th busiest airport in the country, and is nearby two other international airports (Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport and San Jose Mineta International

Airport), making it a significant transit hub within the Bay Area. The County has convened a coordinated, multi-agency effort let by the District Attorney's office to identify, disrupt, and prosecute trafficking networks and connect victim-survivors to services. Activities have included updating the County's Human

Trafficking Protocol for all police departments and the Sheriff's Office; collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies to proactively shutdown illicit human trafficking activity; and creating a team of inspectors and detectives to work on human trafficking fulltime.

Currently, there are no shelters in San Mateo County that specifically serve human trafficking victim-survivors. As a result, victims seeking services may struggle to find placement on their own, and law enforcement cannot reliably offer safe, appropriate, and immediate shelter to victims during or following enforcement operations.

This RFP is in response to that gap. Effective programs should provide trauma-informed, survivor-centered service delivery that prioritizes survivor autonomy and low-barrier access. Shelter sites should maintain an undisclosed location with appropriate on-site staffing, robust security infrastructure, and written security breach protocols. Sites should be located where survivors have access to a variety of support services. Staff should be extensively trained and have all required state and federal certifications.

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1.3. Contact Information

Project Contact:

Lena Silberman Management Analyst Email: lsilberman@smcgov.org Phone: (650) 363-4229

Procurement Contact:

Lena Silberman Management Analyst Email: lsilberman@smcgov.org Phone: (650) 363-4229

Department:

County Executive's Office

Department Head:

Michael Callagy County Executive

1.4. Timeline

RFP Released May 29, 2026

Deadline for Questions and Comments June 11, 2026, 5:00pm

Proposal Due Date and Time June 18, 2026, 5:00pm

2. Scope of Work

2.1. Introduction

The County seeks responses from qualified agencies to provide on-call emergency shelter beds and comprehensive case management services within the agency's existing facilities and frameworks for victim-survivors of human trafficking.

Emergency and interim shelter services will include trauma-informed case management, facility operation, food services, linkages to clinical services as appropriate, and additional related services as needed and as requested by the County to address the clients' needs. The agency will be required to provide applicable reports, performance measure data, and invoices with supporting documentation.

2.2. Population Served

This program seeks to serve adult victim-survivors of all forms of human trafficking, of all gender identities and expressions. These individuals may have experienced various challenges including trauma, mental and physical health challenges, disabilities, limited to no employment history, and other barriers to participating in a program and moving on to a permanent housing solution. Case management services mailto:lsilberman@smcgov.org tel:(650)363-4229 mailto:lsilberman@smcgov.org tel:(650)363-4229

Page 4 of 21 Release date of May 29, 2026 will include identifying resources in the participant's new community once housed that can provide ongoing assistance, as necessary.

2.3. Timeline and Start Up

The contract is tentatively scheduled to execute in Summer 2026. Upon contract execution, the contractor is expected to immediately begin implementation of their start-up plan. Ideally, within 3 weeks of contract execution, the contractor will be ready to provide the services described in this scope of work.

Applicants should submit any concerns regarding this timeline and/or propose an alternate timeline in their technical proposal.

2.4. Service Provision and Approach

This contract will be designed to serve adult victim-survivors of human trafficking that were either trafficked in San Mateo County or resided in San Mateo County at the time they were trafficked.

The selected provider shall provide:

A. Trauma-informed, culturally competent care and services that are responsive to the diverse needs of survivors, including but not limited to: individuals with limited English proficiency, undocumented individuals, individuals who identify as LGBTQI+, survivors with mental health or substance use needs, individuals with disabilities; victim-survivors with children; and those with prior criminal history related to their trafficking experience. Services shall be free from discrimination and affirming of each survivor's identity, background, and lived experience.

B. Case management to each client using a strengths-based approach that centers the client's unique needs and goals. Case managers will be qualified and will develop rapport with each client and offer client-centered assistance.

C. A case manager to each client, within the first 48 hours of the client's move-in. Ensure that the case manager is meeting with the victim-survivor on a regular cadence as agreed upon in the contract.

Maintain a case manager to client ratio that ensures each client receives intensive case management and that maximizes successful client outcomes.

D. Services that use strategies and techniques that encourage victim-survivors to actively participate including but not limited to: motivational interviewing techniques, de-escalation techniques, harm-reduction strategies, and other evidence-based practices.

E. Individualized case management including but not limited to:

1. Needs assessment within 24 hours of placement

2. Development of individualized service and safety plans

3. Speak the primary languages of clients, including English and Spanish, and maintain processes to provide services to clients who speak languages other than English and Spanish.

4. Life skills training

5. Assistance in accessing public benefits

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6. Legal service referrals

7. Coordination with law enforcement and victim advocates

8. Housing navigation

9. Employment and vocational training referrals

10. Connection to ongoing mental health, substance use, and medical services

11. Connection to other community services

12. Transportation to destinations necessary to meet survivors' needs

13. Exit planning and transitional support

F. Onboarding training for new staff and ongoing trainings for all staff to ensure safe operations, positive client experiences, and strong program outcomes. These trainings should include the following:

1. Job functions and responsibilities

2. Site procedures

3. Client service approaches (e.g. motivational interviewing, cultural competence and sensitivity, application of trauma-informed, person centered, and strengths-based approaches)

4. Secondary trauma and vicarious trauma

5. Mental Health

6. Substance Abuse

7. De-escalation

8. Crisis response and prevention

9. Working with individuals who have experienced significant trauma

10. Health and safety measures and protocols

11. Privacy

G. Program principles that avoid creating barriers to entry of the program.

H. A program manager who will:

1. Provide oversight of all staff and program operations.

2. Maintain relationships with appropriate stakeholders.

3. Be responsible for upholding staff training and data quality standards.

4. Monitor quality assurance and improvement, performance outcomes, and consistent service delivery.

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I. Program rules that both promote program safety while minimizing involuntary program terminations.

Use involuntary exits and program bans as a last resort strategy.

J. Safe, confidential emergency shelter with secured facility and controlled access, offering private, or semi-private sleeping accommodations.

K. Shelter Management, including:

1. Provide appropriate on-site staffing levels to ensure safety, security, and wellbeing of all victim-survivor clients, timely responses to client situations, and general oversight of the shelter.

2. Provide all supplies and equipment necessary for shelter services, including bedding, sheets, toiletries, towels, etc. For other client needs (such as clothing, phones, etc.), the program may provide those items directly and/or help clients connect to community resources to access these items.

3. Provide transportation for clients to help them get to appointments.

4. Ensure the physical set-up of the site maximizes client wellbeing.

5. Provide opportunities for on-site group activities and events that foster a sense of community and opportunities for connections between clients.

6. Conduct regular wellness checks.

7. Provide three (3) nutritious meals a day, seven (7) days a week, 365 days a year to all clients.

8. Make snacks available to all clients

9. Adhere to all applicable local, state, and federal safety and health guidelines surrounding food handling.

L. Maintain 24-hour crisis services, ensuring qualified staff are available at all times to respond immediately to any crisis situation.

M. Monitor and follow-up on clients' progress and respond to both immediate and ongoing needs.

N. Written documentation of program policies and procedures to the County, including:

1. Frequency of supervision and process for staff to reach managers for urgent needs.

2. Onboarding process and training for new staff, and ongoing training for staff.

3. Safety and emergency protocols.

4. Intake process for new clients.

5. Incident report and resolution process.

6. Case management services.

7. Collaboration with safety net services.

8. Standards for program discharge.

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O. Include peer models, where people with lived experience are included in the development of program design.

2.5. Bed Hold for Client Referrals for San Mateo County

The selected provider shall:

A. Designate and ensure the availability of at least 2 shelter beds for adult human trafficking victim-survivors (either sex or labor) who are confirmed victims or at imminent risk of sex trafficking, referred from the County of San Mateo. The provider shall accept placements within 48 hours of referral, or within 24 hours for referrals originating from law enforcement operations.

B. Provide a designated point-of-contact for referrals and client intakes who are reachable during and after business hours. An intake interview shall commence within 48 hours of a referral from San

Mateo County.

C. Provide additional bed space for additional referrals, on an as-needed basis subject to availability and mutual agreement.

D. Maintain on-call staffing capacity to receive survivors at non-standard hours, including during and immediately following law enforcement operations. The provider shall guarantee a response to after-hour referrals within 24 hours and make a documented good-faith effort to accommodate placement outside of regular business hours.

E. Maintain confidentiality of the shelter location in all public-facing materials and referral communications, consistent with best practices for trafficking specific placements. The provider shall not disclose the shelter location except to authorized County staff and the referred client.

2.6. Facility

Contractor will provide a facility that includes:

A. The physical facility and all furniture and appliances.

B. Maintaining the site(s) with regular janitorial services, maintenance and facility repairs.

C. Providing any technology and equipment needed for the program staff.

D. Maintaining a safe and healthy environment that prioritizes the safety and security of clients, staff, and others on-site.

E. Adhering to all local, state, and federal health and safety guidelines.

2.7. Reporting, Outcomes, and Performance Measures

Provider shall:

A. When a client permits disclosure of their personal information, provide information about the client and updates to appropriate County of San Mateo departments.

B. Provide quarterly reports to the County of San Mateo that within 20 days of the end of each month.

The report shall include both a narrative description of activities performed and data on utilization rates and updates for all contracted performance measures for the month and for the fiscal year to date.

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C. Provide beds that are within thirty (30) miles of the border of San Mateo County.

2.8. Budgeting and Invoicing

Contractors shall provide two separate rates: a bed-hold rate and an occupied-bed rate. Invoices shall be submitted based on the applicable rate, and contractors are expected to maintain agreed-upon staffing levels and program services throughout the duration of the contract.

2.9. Disability Accomodations

Contractor will:

A. Provide services that are accessible and responsive to client's needs.

B. Maintain policies and procedures to receive requests for and provide reasonable accommodations for clients with disabilities, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable requirements.

2.10. Greivances

Contractor will have a grievance process that clients can use to resolve conflicts within the program and submit complaints and grievances.

3. Submission Requirements

3.1. Submission Deadline

Proposals must be electronically received by 5:00 pm, on Thursday, June 18, 2026 via eProcurement system.

Allow sufficient time for the upload to complete by the Due Date and Time. Partial uploads will automatically terminate, and proposals will be rejected. The eProcurement system submission time will be the official submission time. The County will not be responsible for and may not accept proposals that are late due to slow internet connections or for any other failure of the eProcurement system.

NOTE: The County does not maintain the eProcurement system and is not liable for site failures or technical problems. To resolve technical issues, contact OpenGov Technical Support by using the real time chat located in the lower right hand corner of the screen, or via email at procurement-support@opengov.com https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/smcgov

3.2. Pre-submission Registration

Organizations or individuals interested in responding to this solicitation must register online with the

County of San Mateo at:

• https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/smcgov

It is recommended that organizations complete this registration as soon as possible. The County will not be responsible for and may not accept proposals that are late due to a failure to register in the eProcurement system.

mailto:procurement-support@opengov.com mailto:procurement-support@opengov.com https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/smcgov https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/smcgov

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3.3. Submission via eProcurement Portal

Required Documents

Please refer to the Technical Proposal section for submittal documents and requirements.

Electronic Submissions

Include the proposer name and the RFP title and number in each filename. Submit proposals via the eProcurement website, allowing sufficient time for the upload to complete by the Due Date and Time. As noted above, the eProcurement portal submission time will be the official submission time, and partial uploads will automatically terminate, and proposals will be rejected. Contact eProcurement Portal with technical questions regarding this site.

Conflicts between Certain Requirements

Prior to the submission deadlines and solely relating to a determination of the timeliness of questions, comments, and proposal submissions, information displayed on the eProcurement portal site will take precedence in the event of a discrepancy between that information and the information within the solicitation documents. For all other discrepancies, the information in the solicitation documents will take precedence.

Format

Documents should be created in the following format:

• Text should be Times New Roman (12-point minimum font size) and unjustified (i.e., with a ragged-right margin)

• Pages should have margins of at least one inch on all sides (excluding headers and footers)

• If the proposal is lengthy, a Table of Contents should be included.

• PDF format is preferred.

Errors in Proposals

The County will not be liable for any errors in proposals. Proposals may be rejected as unresponsive if they are late, incomplete, missing pages or information, or cannot be opened for any reason. The County may waive minor irregularities, but such waiver will not modify any remaining RFP requirements.

3.4. Procurement Preference for Local Businesses and Local Non-Profits

The County of San Mateo has adopted a Procurement Preference for Local Businesses Ordinance (County

Ord. Code Ch. 2.89.) The purpose of this Ordinance is to promote a strong local economy by giving preference to local businesses, local non-profits, local small and micro businesses, and local small and micro non-profits in County procurements, to the extent consistent with the law and interests of the public. The County’s process for applying local preferences to competitive procurements is set forth in

County Ordinance Code Section 2.89.030. The Ordinance and exemptions (e.g. the ordinance will be exempt when all bids or proposals received are from Non-Profit Organizations) can be reviewed here:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/smcgov/projects/266320/document?section=2564108

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Chapter 2.89 - PROCUREMENT PREFERENCE FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES | Code of Ordinances |

San Mateo County, CA | Municode Library

The requirements for bidders to establish eligibility for a local preference for this solicitation are detailed below in Section III (Submission Requirements) The Ordinance does not apply if a procurement is determined to be exempt (County Ord. Code sec. 2.89.050), and the County reserves the right to waive application of the Ordinance to this procurement if determined to be in the best interests of the County

(County Ord. Code sec. 2.89.060).

4. Minimum Qualifications, Local Preference Ordinance, and Technical Proposal

4.1. Minimum Qualifications

4.1.1. Has Proposer has been providing similar services for a minimum of three (3) years within the last seven (7) years?*

☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.2. Account manager has a minimum of two (2) years of experience within the last five (5) years in providing account services?*

☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.1.3. Please confirm your firm is registered with System for Award Management (SAM)*

SAM.gov

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

4.1.4. What is the registered Business Name and Unique Entity ID (UEI) No.?*

• UEI number can be obtained by registering your business through SAM.GOV

• Should you be in the process of obtaining your UEI number, please enter the digits ‘123’ temporarily for your response below in order to proceed with proposal. This temporary number should be replaced with the correct registration number for submission of the proposal.

*Response required

4.1.5. Is the Proposer a Non-Profit?*

A Non-Profit is defined as a tax-exempt public charity organization (within the meaning of section

501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code) that is formed for purposes other than making a profit, is exempt from paying federal income taxes on the income generated for their exempt purposes.

☐ Yes

☐ No https://library.municode.com/ca/san_mateo_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_ART2.8INFIPRCOCO_CH2.89PRPRLOBU https://library.municode.com/ca/san_mateo_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_ART2.8INFIPRCOCO_CH2.89PRPRLOBU https://sam.gov/content/home

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*Response required

When equals "Yes"

4.1.6. Is the Proposer a "Local Non-Profit"

As Defined by Chapter 2.89.020 of the San Mateo County Ordinance Code, a “Local Non-Profit" means a tax-exempt public charity organization (within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the

Internal Revenue Code) that is formed for purposes other than making a profit, is exempt from paying federal income taxes on the income generated for their exempt purposes, and has its principal place of business, or is headquartered, in San Mateo County. If this designation applies to the proposer, a self-attestation form must be completed and provided with this response.

Please download the below documents, complete, and upload. If this designation is not applicable, please leave blank.

• SMC_LocalBusiness_self-atte...

4.2. Procurement Preference for Local Businesses and Local Non-Profits

4.2.1. Is the Proposer a "Local Business"?

As Defined by Chapter 2.89.020 of the San Mateo County Ordinance Code, a “Local Business” means any for-profit business which has its principal place of business, or is headquartered, in San Mateo

County. If this designation applies to the proposer, a self-attestation form must be completed and provided with this response.

Please download the below documents, complete, and upload. If this designation is not applicable, please leave blank.

• SMC_LocalBusiness_self-atte...

4.2.2. Is the Proposer a Local "Small" or "Micro" Non-Profit?

As Defined by Chapter 2.89.020 of the San Mateo County Ordinance Code:

“Small Non-Profit" means a Local Non-Profit with an annual revenue of $1,000,000 to $2,500,000 according to its most recently filed IRS Form 990.

“Micro Non-Profit" means a Local Non-Profit with an annual revenue of less than $1,000,000, according to its most recently filed IRS Form 990.

If the above designations apply, please provide your latest filed IRS form 990. A filing from the last two calendar years is acceptable.

If this designation is not applicable, please leave blank.

4.3. Technical Proposal

4.3.1. Introduction and Executive Summary *

Submit a letter of introduction and executive summary of the proposal. The letter must contain:

• Name, title and contact information (email, phone, and address) for representative of proposer that is responsible for communication related to this RFP.

https://government-project.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/153456/80d29c2f-acda-4b87-837e-cb4ead1fb303_SMC_LocalBusiness_self-attestation_form_120424.pdf https://government-project.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/153456/a16ffdc0-a0ee-44ca-b6de-1fddd010042f_SMC_LocalBusiness_self-attestation_form_120424.pdf

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• Name, title, contact information, and signature of person authorized to obligate firm to perform the commitment contained in the proposal.

Submission of the letter will constitute a representation by proposer that it is willing and able to perform the commitments contained in the proposal and has not violated the terms of this RFP.

*Response required

4.3.2. Statement of Minimum Qualifications *

Describe how the proposer meets the minimum qualifications as set forth in Minimum Qualifications of this RFP.

Submission of the Minimum Qualifications checklist is not a substitute for providing a detailed written response.

*Response required

4.3.3. Project Approach*

This section should correlate to the Scope of Work.

A. Describe the program and model service delivery you are proposing, including how it complies with the service components and approach as described in this RFP. Ensure that you provide a detailed explanation of the services that will be offered and the program structure. Address how the program meets the needs of human trafficking victim-survivors (clients).

B. Describe how staff will support clients with group programming and connections to additional resources and assist with transportation to them.

C. Describe how the program will support clients with managing conflict and/or any other problems that may occur during their stay and avoids using involuntary exits except as a last resort strategy.

D. Describe how case managers support clients to develop and execute case management plans.

1. Include frequency that each client will meet with their case manager.

2. Propose a service schedule and hours of operation of case management services.

3. Provide a sample completed case plan document that reflects what a completed case plan will be for program clients.

E. Provide a description of the program rules that will be in place. Provide a copy of program rules for one or more of the programs your organization operates(ed).

F. Describe the intake process for each client.

G. Describe the staffing plan for the program. Include a list of positions. For each role, include the qualifications and a brief description.

1. Specify the staff position(s) that will be responsible for:

a. Staff supervision and training

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b. Overall program oversight

c. Tracking and reporting compliance

d. Implementation of procedures and policies

e. Data entry

f. Quality improvement and quality assurance

g. Consistent, high-quality service delivery

2. Specify the number of staff that will be on site during each shift.

H. Describe onboarding and training process for staff as well as ongoing training.

I. If you plan to utilize volunteers in any way for these services, describe what role the volunteers will be screened, trained, and supervised.

J. Describe the sites emergency procedures in place for natural disasters and other emergency situations.

K. Identify your program targets and expected performance measures.

L. Describe any items listed in this RFP that you cannot provide or that are not included in your proposed interim housing program.

*Response required

4.3.4. Agency Qualifications, Experience, and Outcomes*

A. Provide a statement of qualifications for your organization to demonstrate your agency's capacity to operate this contract. Include a statement of the following:

1. Size of your organization (number and FTE of staff, delineating between employees and consultants).

2. Description of services provided by your organization.

3. Experience providing services requested in this RFP or similar services.

4. Specify the target populations you have served through existing programs and the results achieved.

5. A description of the populations served, number of beds, and number of years in operation.

Indicate how many clients were served in your program(s) each year for the past 3 fiscal years.

6. Describe the organizational structure of your organization, including 501(c)(3) status, for-profit status, or other status, and size and membership of governing board.

*Response required

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4.3.5. References*

Provide three (3) references for each of the following, including the name, address, and telephone number of recent clients (preferably other public agencies):

*Response required

4.3.6. Fee Proposal*

The Fee Proposal should be submitted as a separate PDF file from the Technical Proposals detailed in

Required Documents.

The County reserves the right to accept other than the lowest priced offer and to reject any proposals that are not responsive to this request.

*Response required

5. Evaluation and Selection Criteria

The proposals will be evaluated by a selection committee with relevant expertise. The County intends to evaluate the proposals generally in accordance with the criteria itemized below. Proposers with the highest scoring proposals may be interviewed by the committee to make the final selection.

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Project Approach Points Based 30 (30% of Total)

2. Firm Qualifications Points Based 30 (30% of Total)

3. Price Points Based 35 (35% of Total)

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4. Preferential Points

Where price is not the sole evaluation factor for a solicitation (e.g., in the case of a "best-value" solicitation), five percent (5%) of the total evaluation points otherwise awardable will be added to the proposal score for each Local

Business or Local Non-Profit score for evaluation purposes. In the event of a tie between a Local Business or Local Non-Profit and another bidder, the Local Business or Non-

Profit shall be awarded the Contract, assuming agreement on other contract terms.

An additional three percent (3%) preference shall be given to a Local Business or Local

Non-profit (for a total of eight percent (8%) of total points otherwise awardable) if the proposer is a Small Business or Small Non-

Profit, or an additional 5 percent preference (for a total of ten percent (10%) of total points otherwise awardable) if the proposer is a Micro

Business or Micro Non-Profit.

Points Based 5 (5% of Total)

6. Instructions to Proposers

6.1. Communications

A. As of the issuance date of this RFP and continuing until it is canceled or an award is made, no proposer or person acting on behalf of a prospective proposer may discuss any matter relating to the RFP with any officer, agent, or employee of the County, other than through eProcurement portal, to the Authorized Contact Person, or as outlined in the evaluation or protest procedures.

B. Proposers (including any agent, owner, employee, board members, or other such affiliates) shall not offer any gift, favor, or other personal benefit to any County officer or employee during the procurement process for this agreement, including during the solicitation period and contract negotiations.

Violation of the foregoing prohibitions may result in a proposer being found non-responsible and barred from participating in this or future procurements.

6.2. Contract Award

A. Award Procedure

Contract negotiations are neither an offer nor guarantee that a contract will be executed. A contract award, if any is made, will be to the responsive, responsible proposer offering the overall best value to the County for the services and goods described in this solicitation, or as applicable, for a specific portion of the services and goods described. Any agreement reached will be memorialized in a formal agreement using the attached template, executed by the appropriate authority.

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B. Notice of Intent to Award

If a decision is made to take steps to enter into an agreement with one or more proposers, the

County will post a Notice of Intent to Award or otherwise notify proposers the remaining proposers of their non-selection. Notice may instead be provided by including approval of the agreement as an item on an agenda for a meeting of the Board of Supervisors.

C. Commencement of Performance

After all parties have signed the agreement, the County will notify the contractor and performance may proceed. Prior to execution of the agreement by the County, no County employee may authorize work under the agreement. Any work performed prior to the full execution of the Agreement may not be compensated.

D. Levine Act DisclosureThe Levine Act (California Government Code Section 84308) imposes certain requirements on parties contracting with the County of San Mateo related to campaign contributions to County “officers,” including elected County officers and candidates seeking elective office, who may participate in making a decision on certain County contracts. Elected

County officers in San Mateo County include: the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder, County Controller, Coroner, District Attorney, Sheriff, and Tax

Collector-Treasurer.Generally, under current County policy, approval by the Board of

Supervisors is required for any agreement for services above $200,000, and agreements for services below that threshold may be approved by Department heads.If your proposal is selected, you will be required to certify compliance with the Levine Act.As part of this process, you will need to certify and warrant that you have fully complied, and will remain in full compliance, with all applicable requirements of the Levine Act in connection with the

Agreement, including making any required disclosures of campaign contributions to County

Officers, which includes but may not be limited to elected County Officers. Elected County

Officers include members of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, as well as the

Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder, Controller, Coroner, District Attorney, Sheriff, and Tax

Collector-Treasurer. Any campaign contribution required to be disclosed under the Levine Act in connection with this Agreement shall be disclosed on the County of San Mateo Levine Act

Disclosure Form, a copy of which is available from the County upon request.Parties are solely responsible for accurate certification and disclosure. The Levine Act is complex, and this brief description is not legal advice. For example, certain contributions must be aggregated when determining whether contributions have exceeded the $500 threshold. If your proposal is selected, you are urged to review the Levine Act and consider consulting an attorney.

6.3. Term

County Executive's Officeis issuing Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 2026-RFP-00519 for On-Call

Emergency Shelter Beds and Case Management for Adult Human Trafficking Victim-Survivors.

The agreement shall have a term of one (1) year. In addition, the County shall have two (2) option to extend the term for an additional period not to exceed three years, which the County may exercise in its

Page 17 of 21 Release date of May 29, 2026 sole, absolute discretion. To exercise this option, the County shall provide written notice to the Contractor at least thirty days before the end of the agreement’s term.

The County’s standard contract template has been included with this solicitation. The awarded contractor will be expected to sign an agreement prepared by the County using this template. Please ensure that your firm has completed legal review of these contract terms. If your firm wishes to request exceptions to these standard terms, submit a Contract Exceptions Request by the Deadline for Questions, Comments and

Contract Exceptions listed in the Solicitation Schedule below. The County will consider Contract

Exceptions Requests but reserves the right to reject requested modifications to its standard terms.

7. Terms and Conditions for Receipt of Proposals

7.1. Errors, Omissions and Inquiries regarding the RFP

Proposers are responsible for reviewing all portions of this RFP. Proposers are to notify the department, in eProcurement portal, if the proposer discovers any ambiguity, discrepancy, omission, or apparent error in the RFP. Such notification should be made promptly after discovery, but in no event later than five business days prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals. Modifications and clarifications will be made by addenda as provided below.

Inquiries regarding the RFP should be lodged in eProcurement portal.

7.2. Objections to RFP Terms

Should a proposer object on any ground to any provision or legal requirement set forth in this RFP, the proposer must, not more than ten calendar days after the RFP is issued, provide written notice to the department, via eProcurement portal, setting forth with specific grounds for the objection.

7.3. Addenda

The County may cancel, revise, or reissue this RFP, in whole or in part, for any reason. Revisions will be posted as Addenda on eProcurement portal. No other revision of this RFP is valid. Proposers shall be responsible for ensuring that their proposals reflects any and all Addenda issued by the County prior to the proposal due date regardless of when a proposal is submitted. Therefore, the County recommends that proposers consult eProcurement portal frequently, including shortly before the proposal due date, to confirm that all Addenda have been downloaded.

7.4. Term of Proposal

Submission of a proposal signifies that the proposed services and prices are valid for the duration of the proposed agreement term and that the quoted prices are genuine and not the result of collusion or any other anti-competitive activity.

7.5. Revision or Withdrawal of Proposal

A proposer may revise a proposal on the proposer’s own initiative at any time before the deadline for submission of proposals. The proposer must submit the revised proposal in the same manner as the original on or before the proposal due date.

A proposer may withdraw a proposal at any time before the deadline for submission of proposals. After that time, whether or not a new RFP is issued for the same subject matter, withdrawal of a proposal may

Page 18 of 21 Release date of May 29, 2026 preclude the proposer from participating in the procurement as a proposer or subcontractor, except that an original equipment manufacturer may participate indirectly through a reseller.

7.6. Errors and Omissions in Proposal

The County will not be liable for any errors in proposals. Proposals may be rejected as unresponsive if they are incomplete, are missing pages or information, or cannot be opened for any reason. The County may waive minor irregularities, but such waiver will not modify any of the remaining RFP requirements.

7.7. No Commitment

Neither submission of a proposal nor the County’s receipt of proposal materials confers any right to the proposer nor any obligation on the County. This RFP does not commit the County to award a contract.

7.8. Financial Responsibility

The County shall have no financial responsibility for any costs incurred by a firm in responding to this

RFP or participating in any presentations or negotiations.

7.9. Estimated Quantity

If the RFP results in an indefinite quantity or a requirements agreement, the goods and services actually requested by the County may be less than the maximum value of the agreement and there is no guarantee, either expressed or implied, as to the actual quantity of goods and services that will be authorized under the agreement.

7.10. Public Record

A. General

1. All proposals, protests, and information submitted in response to this solicitation will become the property of the County and will be considered public records. As such, they may be subject to public review.

2. Any contract arising from this RFP will be a public record.

3. The County is not seeking proprietary information and will not assert any privileges that may exist on behalf of the proposer.

4. Submission of any materials in response to this RFP constitutes:

▪ Consent to the County’s release of such materials under the Public Records Act without notice to the person or entity submitting the materials; and

▪ Waiver of all claims against the County and/or its officers, agents, or employees that the

County has violated a proposer's right to privacy, disclosed trade secrets, or caused any damage by allowing the proposal or materials to be inspected; and

▪ Agreement to indemnify and hold harmless the County for release of such information under the Public Records Act; and

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▪ Acknowledgement that the County will not assert any privileges that may exist on behalf of the person or entity submitting the materials.

7.11. Confidential Information

A. Proposers are responsible for asserting any applicable privileges or reasons why a document should not be produced in response to a public record request.

B. If submitting information protected from disclosure as a trade secret or any other basis, identify each page of such material subject to protection as “CONFIDENTIAL.” If requested material has been designated as confidential, the County will attempt to inform the proposer of the public records request in a timely manner to permit assertion of any applicable privileges.

C. Failure to seek a court order protecting information from disclosure within ten days of the

County’s notice of a request to the proposer will be deemed agreement to disclosure of the information and the proposer agrees to indemnify and hold the County harmless for release of such information.

D. Requests to treat an entire proposal as confidential will be rejected and deemed agreement to

County disclosure of the entire proposal and the proposer agrees to indemnify and hold the

County harmless for release of any information requested.

E. Trade secrets will only be considered confidential if claimed to be a trade secret when submitted to the County, marked as confidential, and compliant with Government Code Section 6254.7.

7.12. Reservations of Rights by the County

The issuance of this RFP does not constitute an agreement by the County that any contract will actually be entered into by the County. The County expressly reserves the right at any time to:

• Waive or correct any defect or informality in any response, proposal, or proposal procedure;

• Reject any or all proposals;

• Reissue an RFP;

• Prior to submission deadline for proposals, modify all or any portion of the selection procedures, including deadlines for accepting responses, the specifications or requirements for any materials, equipment or services to be provided under this RFP, or the requirements for contents or format of the proposals;

• Procure any materials, equipment or services specified in this RFP by any other means; or

• Determine that no project will be pursued.

7.13. No Waiver

No waiver by the County of any provision of this RFP shall be implied from any failure by the County to recognize or take action on account of any failure by a proposer to observe any provision of this RFP.

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7.14. Cooperative Agreement (Piggyback)

This competitive solicitation is being conducted as a Cooperative Procurement. The services, terms and conditions of any agreement resulting from this solicitation may be used by other organizations as a

Cooperative Agreement.

This provision in no way commits any affiliate to procure services from any awarded contractor, nor does it guarantee that any additional orders will result. At their discretion, and subject to their own procurement policies, interested organizations may make use of this competitive procurement and contract directly from the awarded contractor.

8. Protest Procedures

8.1. Protest of Non-Responsiveness Determination

Within five (5) working days of the County's issuance of a notice of non-responsiveness, any firm that has submitted a proposal and believes that the County has incorrectly determined that its proposal is non-responsive may submit a written notice of protest. Such notice of protest must be received by the County on or before the fifth working day following the County's issuance of the notice of non-responsiveness. The notice of protest must include a written statement specifying in detail each and every one of the grounds asserted for the protest. The protest must be signed by an individual authorized to represent the proposer, and must cite the law, rule, local ordinance, procedure or RFP provision on which the protest is based. In addition, the protestor must specify facts and evidence sufficient for the County to determine the validity of the protest.

8.2. Protest of Contract Award

Within five (5) working days of the County's issuance of a notice of intent to award the contract, any firm that has submitted a responsive proposal and believes that the County has incorrectly selected another proposer for award may submit a written notice of protest. Such notice of protest must be received by the

County on or before the fifth working day after the County's issuance of the notice of intent to award.

The notice of protest must include a written statement specifying in detail each and every one of the grounds asserted for the protest. The protest must be signed by an individual authorized to represent the proposer, and must cite the law, rule, local ordinance, procedure or RFP provision on which the protest is based. In addition, the protestor must specify facts and evidence sufficient for the County to determine the validity of the protest.

8.3. Delivery of Protests

All protests must be received by the due date. If a protest is mailed, the protestor bears the risk of non-delivery within the deadlines specified herein. Protests should be transmitted by a means that will objectively establish the date the County received the protest. Protests or notice of protests made orally

(e.g., by telephone) will not be considered. Protests must be delivered to:

Protests@smcgov.org

Subject: On-Call Emergency Shelter Beds and Case Management for Adult Human Trafficking

Victim-Survivors, 2026-RFP-00519

Page 21 of 21 Release date of May 29, 2026