Professional Engineering Design _ Post-Design Consulting Services for CR491 Widening from Pine Ridge Boulevard to north of Hampshire Boulevard.pdf

For more information, please visit our online supplier portal, located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Project #: RFQ 26-095

RFQ 26-095 PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING DESIGN & POST-DESIGN

CONSULTING SERVICES FOR CR491 WIDENING FROM PINE RIDGE

BOULEVARD TO NORTH OF HAMPSHIRE BOULEVARD.

Bid Due Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026 @ 2:00 pm

Issue Request for Qualifications June 6, 2026

Deadline for Questions June 29, 2026, 4:00pm

Response submittal Due Date and Time July 7, 2026, 2:00pm

Public Opening Date and Time via

Microsoft Teams (Non-Mandatory)

July 7, 2026, 2:15pm

Microsoft Teams meeting Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/25514495222207

8?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8 Meeting ID: 255 144 952 222 078 Passcode: SP3H5nS3 https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8 https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8

For more information, please visit our online supplier portal, located at

Public Tally of Scores (Subject to

Change) (Non-Mandatory)

July 28, 2026, 10:00am

Microsoft Teams meeting Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/24492782949761

7?p=5z3Bkmku6gbmVvfp8t Meeting ID: 244 927 829 497 617 Passcode: z3Hq6yB7

Board Approval of Selection and Award

(subject to change)

October 13, 2026

CITRUS COUNTY, FLORIDA

A political subdivision of the State of Florida

Department of Management & Budget

3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 266

Lecanto, FL 34461 https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/244927829497617?p=5z3Bkmku6gbmVvfp8t

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Definitions

2. Instructions to Respondents

3. Requirements

4. Response Format

5. Procurement Information

6. Evaluation of Proposals

7. Award of Agreement

8. Additional Information

9. Minimum Insurance Requirements

10. Special Conditions

11. Respondent Responses

12. Attachments

Attachments:

A - Preliminary Road Plans_CR491 Pine Ridge to north of Hampshire

B - SCOPE OF SERVICES

C - RFQ 26-095 Sample Agreement Complete

D - RFQ 26-095 Solicitation Complete

1. Definitions

Addenda: A written or graphic instrument issued by County prior to the execution of the Agreement which modifies or interprets the Request for Qualifications by additions, deletions, clarifications, corrections or other type of modifications. Addenda will become part of the Contract Documents when the Agreement is executed.

Agreement: A legal document, executed by County and Successful Respondent, which supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, or agreements, either written or oral. The Agreement, as amended from time to time, forms the Contract between County and the Successful Respondent setting forth the roles, responsibilities and obligations of the parties including, but not limited to, the performance of the Services and the basis of payment.

Contract Documents: Request for Qualifications, including Addenda to such, the Agreement, Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Respondent’s Response, Scope of Services, Certificate(s) of Insurance, Notice to

Proceed, Notice of Award, Drawings and Specifications, Affidavit/Signature Page, References, and any other documents mailed or otherwise transmitted to Respondent prior to or after the submittal of their Response (including documentation mailed or otherwise transmitted by Respondent prior to or after the Notice of Award), negotiation agreements and documentation, and any Amendments to the Agreement, as may be issued from time to time, which are all to be treated as one in the form of the Contract Documents.

County: Citrus County, Florida, a political subdivision of the State of Florida, its officers, agents, employees and volunteers.

Governmental Entity: A political subdivision or agency of this state or of any state of the United States, including, but not limited to, state government, county, municipality, school district, nonprofit public university or college, single purpose or multipurpose special district, single-purpose special or multipurpose authority, metropolitan or consolidated government, separate legal entity or administrative entity, or any agency of the Federal Government.

Individual Scorers: County employees selected to score the Responses and Oral Presentation (if applicable) and recommend to the Board the Successful Respondent(s) for an award.

Minor Irregularity: A variation from the Request for Qualifications terms and conditions which does not affect the price or give Respondent an advantage or benefit not enjoyed by the other Respondents or does not adversely impact the interests of County.

Notice of Award: A written notice submitted by County notifying the Successful Respondent that they have been awarded the project.

Notice of Intent to Award: A verbal or written notice submitted by County notifying the Successful Respondent that

County intends to award the project to them contingent upon the Successful Respondent executing the Agreement and submitting any outstanding documents.

Piggyback: A government authority other than County purchasing commodities from the Successful Respondent(s) under the same terms and conditions that the Successful Respondent(s) has agreed to offer County.

Public Opening: Opening of the Responses and the announcing of Respondents who submitted a Response in response to the Request for Qualifications in the presence of the public.

Recommendation of Award: A written notification sent by way of facsimile or electronic e-mail to those who submitted a

Response in response to this Request for Qualifications advising them of County's decision for its selection of the

Successful Respondent(s) and its intent to award to that Respondent.

Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Contents of this solicitation and all supporting documents including Addendum to such, or other related information transmitted to potential Respondents.

Respondent: Entity that submits a Response to County in response to the Request for Qualifications.

Response: Means the response to the Request for Qualifications submitted by Respondent.

Responsible Respondent: An entity who submits a Response who shows that they have the capability in all respects to perform fully the Services outlined in the Request for Qualifications, and the integrity and reliability that will assure good faith performance.

Responsive: A Response that conforms in all material respects to the Request for Qualifications requirements.

Services: Scope of Services as noted in this Request for Qualifications.

Subconsultant: Any person, firm, partnership, corporation, association or other organization, or a combination of any of them that has a direct contract with Successful Respondent to perform a portion of the services awarded under a professional service contract.

Successful Respondent: Most responsive and responsible Respondent with the highest final score to whom County

(on the basis of County’s evaluation as hereinafter provided) selects to make an award.

Timeline: List of critical dates and actions involved in the Request for Qualifications.

2. Instructions to Respondents

2.1. Instructions / Timeline

ALL RESPONSES SHALL BE RECEIVED ELECTRONICALLY VIA THE OPENGOV WEBSITE ON OR BEFORE 2:00 P.M.

(EST), July 7, 2026. SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED ELECTRONICALLY VIA OPENGOV. OpenGov

RFQ 26-095.

RESPONSES WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED, AND CANNOT BE ENTERED, AFTER THE ABOVE REFERENCED DATE

AND TIME.

ALL RFQ's WILL BE PUBLICLY OPENED VIA MICROSOFT TEAMS MEETING. RESPONSES WILL BE OPENED, READ

ALOUD, AND RECORDED PURSUANT TO FLORIDA LAW AND COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS.

RFQ PROCESS DATE TIME

Issue Request for Qualifications June 6, 2026 N/A

Deadline for Written Questions June 29, 2026 4:00 P.M. (EST)

Response Due Date July 7, 2026 2:00 P.M. (EST)

Public Opening of Responses

Microsoft Teams meeting

July 7, 2026 2:15 P.M. (EST) https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/manage https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/manage

Public Tally of Scores (subject to change)

Microsoft Teams meeting

July 28, 2026 10:00 A.M. (EST)

Effective Date of Contract (subject to change) October 13, 2026 N/A

INQUIRIES / INTERPRETATIONS: All Respondents shall carefully examine the RFQ documents. Any ambiguities or inconsistencies shall be brought to the attention of the County prior to the due date; failure to do so, on the part of the

Respondent, will constitute an acceptance by the Respondent of any subsequent decision. Any questions concerning the intent, meaning, and interpretations of the RFQ documents including the attached draft agreement, shall be requested in writing via the Questions & Answers section of this solicitation by 4:00 P.M., June 29, 2026. The County will not be responsible for any oral instructions made by any employee(s) of the County in regard to this RFQ. Oral statements given before the RFQ Due Date will not be binding.

2.2. Scope of Services

The County seeks qualified engineering firms to provide professional design services for roadway drainage and utility improvements, including but not limited to:

• Right of Way (ROW) design survey to include existing and planned utilities by various utility companies. Prepare

ROW map and parcel acquisition sketches/descriptions.

• Provide corridor traffic analysis and improvement recommendations for County approval. Recommendations will include:

1. Type of traffic control

2. Turn lanes

3. Traffic signal(s)

4. Store lengths at major intersections

• Coordinate with project acquisition agents and attorneys to develop project concepts and plans that will result in minimization of acquisition costs and maximize uncontested and voluntary property acquisition rather than acquisition by exercise of eminent domain powers. Services will include:

1. Assisting with property owner meetings

2. Workshops

3. Property acquisition proceedings

• Perform geo-technical evaluations and investigations

• Perform environmental analysis and provide mitigation options as may be appropriate

• Perform Historical/Archaeological analysis and provide permitting services with the appropriate agencies for the construction of the project

• Provide Roadway and Water/Wastewater Post Design Services during construction of the project

• Provide permitting services with the appropriate agencies for the construction of the roadway and utility improvements

• Provide bid documents. Review and recommend bids

• Prepare engineering report to include:

1. Utility water and wastewater systems

2. Detailed drainage analysis

3. Intersection lane analysis, traffic signal analysis, and recommended typical sections for proposed improvements.

4. Water and Wastewater design plans shall be developed and coordinated with County Water Resources

Department.

• Prepare Final Construction plans in accordance with County Standards, MUTCD, Florida "Green Book". Water and

Wastewater infrastructure modifications should be done in accordance with County's Minimum Standards &

Construction Specifications for Water and Wastewater Systems.

3. Requirements

3.1 Minimum Requirements for Submitting a Response

Firms shall be registered to conduct business in the State of Florida. http://www.sunbiz.org/

Firms must meet all requirements listed in the Minimum Insurance Requirements section.

Respondent must submit their response in accordance with the requirements outlined in the Response Format section.

Respondent must completely answer all questions and submit/upload all documentation required in the RESPONDENT

RESPONSES section. Complete responses shall be uploaded in the RESPONDENT RESPONSES section, Question

#25.

3.2 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Certificate(s) of Insurance

Respondents are to submit a copy of their certificate(s) of insurance evidencing policies and limits of insurance that they currently have in force.

If awarded and once ALL paperwork is completed and received by County, an email will be sent to Successful Respondent requesting online registration with myCOI. It is critical that County is provided with an accurate email address. The cost to register is $19.95 per year and a credit/debit card will be needed. Part of the registration process includes providing contact information for Successful Respondent’s insurance agent(s), which will be needed at the time of registration. Once registered, an email will be sent to the insurance agent(s) requesting them to upload a current Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly into the myCOI website. Certificates of Insurance cannot be mailed, emailed, or faxed to County. Successful

Respondent will not be allowed to begin services, and no payments will be made until registration is completed and a compliant Certificate of Insurance is received from the Successful Respondent’s agent(s). This is a yearly requirement for the duration of the Agreement.

Subconsultants

It is County's intention to select a Respondent who has in-house capabilities to perform all Services outlined in this

Solicitation. However, it is understood that there may be some portions of Services for which the selected Respondent may have to outsource to subconsultants. No more than 50% of Services can be performed by subconsultants.

All subconsultants proposed by Respondent for the performance of Services covered under this Solicitation are subject to

County approval. County reserves the right to reject any proposed subconsultant listed by Respondent and bears no responsibility or liability to Respondent or its proposed subconsultants for any commitments made between them regarding the performance of Services covered under this Solicitation.

http://www.sunbiz.org/ https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/builder/document?section=2460226 https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/builder/document?section=2460228 https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/builder/document?section=2460230 https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/builder/document?section=2460230

If, after due investigation, and prior to giving Notice of Award to Successful Respondent, County has reasonable objection to any proposed subconsultant, County may request the Successful Respondent to submit an acceptable substitute. If

Successful Respondent declines to make any such substitution, County may make Award to the next lowest, most responsive, and responsible Respondent that will agree to use subconsultants or suppliers acceptable to County.

All proposed subconsultants should be properly certified, registered, or licensed by the appropriate governmental authority

(as applicable) for Services to be performed, prior to the submittal of a Response. Proposed subconsultants shall have successfully completed Services comparable to that which is noted within the Solicitation and be qualified both technically and financially to perform Services for which they are listed.

Addenda

Any Addenda issued in relation to this Solicitation will be transmitted by way of posting such on OpenGov and the

Demand Star® e-procurement sourcing websites, which can be accessed at the following addresses:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl.

http://www.demandstar.com/supplier/bids/agency_inc/bid_list.asp?f=search&mi=10180

It is Respondent's responsibility to be aware of any addenda that might have a bearing on their Response before the Response is due. Respondents shall acknowledge receipt of any and all addenda. In the event a Respondent fails to acknowledge receipt of such addenda, their Response will be construed as though they have received such addenda, and the submission of a Response will constitute acknowledgement of the receipt of same. All addenda will become a part of the Response Documents and Respondent will be bound by such, whether or not received by Respondent.

Licensing and Certifications

Respondents must comply with Chapter 607, Florida Statutes, entitled “Corporations” to transact business in the State of

Florida. Respondents must also be properly licensed and/or certified in accordance with the State of Florida’s regulations governing the provision of Services outlined in this Solicitation. Furthermore, Respondents must comply with the policies, codes, and regulations of Citrus County for conducting business in County.

Respondent shall submit with their Response copies of all licenses and certifications required to perform the Services covered under this Solicitation.

Conflict of Interest

Respondents shall disclose in their Response the name of any officer, director, employee, or other agent who is also an employee of County. Respondents shall also disclose the name of any County employee who owns, directly or indirectly, an interest of five percent (5%) or more in Respondent's company or its affiliates.

Any Respondent or their proposed subconsultant who is currently involved in a contract with the County, or who believes that they may have a potential or actual conflict of interest regarding this solicitation, shall be required to submit such information with their Response. Such information shall include sufficient details regarding the actual or potential conflict of

Interest to allow the County to evaluate the submittal, including but not limited to, Services being performed under a current contract(s), and the Services to be performed under a Contract awarded pursuant to this Solicitation. Failure to do so may result in an adverse determination by County. County also reserves the right to request additional information regarding such conflict of interest.

County will determine whether Respondent or their proposed subconsultant has a conflict of interest that will interfere with

Respondent’s ability to perform the Services outlined in this Solicitation and will notify Respondent of the determination.

Respondent, its employees, and proposed subconsultants are prohibited from entering into any contract with the County or any other governmental entity during the term of any Contract covered under this Solicitation that would create a conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest, with the Services noted in the Solicitation.

4. Response Format

To aid in the evaluation of each Response, Respondents shall provide the following information in the format as noted. This information will be used as the foundation for scoring the Responses. Following directions is essential.

http://www.demandstar.com/supplier/bids/agency_inc/bid_list.asp?f=search&mi=10180

Please upload your complete Response in the RESPONDENT RESPONSES section, Question #25.

Title Page

Provide the RFQ Number and Title; the Firm’s name, contact person's name, address, phone number and email, and the date of the proposal.

Letter of Transmittal

A transmittal letter must be provided briefly stating Respondent’s understanding of services to be provided within the required time period, a statement why Respondent believes they are the best qualified to perform the Services, and a statement confirming the 'Qualifications Statement' submitted is a contractual obligation and irrevocable offer until such time as County awards a contract as a result of this RFQ.

The transmittal letter must be signed by a duly authorized officer(s) of Respondent’s Company as registered with the Florida

Secretary of State through the Division of Corporations website at: www.sunbiz.org. Respondent must provide a copy of

Company’s Sunbiz following the transmittal letter in order to verify the duly authorized officers. If such an officer is not listed in Sunbiz for Respondent, Respondent must provide a legal document such as a Certificate of Resolution stating that the officer is authorized to execute all documents on behalf of the Respondent.

Table of Contents (for the following Tabs):

Tab 1) Company Information and Qualifications (10 points)

Respondents are to provide a narrative describing their firm’s organization, size and number of employees, number of years in business, overall company philosophy, and variety and level of government services offered. Brochures or other promotional presentations beyond what is necessary to present a complete and effective Response are not desired.

Respondents are to include a description of their qualifications as it pertains to the professional services specified in this

Request for Qualifications document.

Respondents are to provide three (3) references for whom they have provided services similar to those outlined in this

Request for Qualifications over the past five (5) years. References should include the client's name, address, contact person, phone number, e-mail address, and a description of Services provided.

Respondents are to advise as to whether their company has filed for bankruptcy, is currently in bankruptcy, or has bankruptcy action pending. Please note that County may require more detailed financial information from Respondent as part of its scoring process.

If applicable, Respondents are to provide a list of any past, pending, or present litigation or disputes that they currently have or had with other clients within the last five (5) years. Respondents are to provide information as to the nature of the litigation or dispute.

Tab 2) Proposed Personnel and Qualifications (10 points)

Respondents are to identify the individuals that will be assigned to provide the Services outlined in this Request for

Qualifications and briefly explain why they have selected these individuals.

1. Include a resume for each individual.

2. Include a list of projects, similar to the Services outlined in this Request for Qualifications, that the individual(s) have worked on or are currently working on.

3. Include copies of professional licenses and/or certifications, titles, and accomplishments of individuals.

Respondents are to indicate who will be the lead person assigned to manage Services covered under this Request for

Qualifications and provide the same information about this individual as noted above.

Respondents must provide an organizational chart identifying the personnel within their firm who will be assigned to deliver the Services.

Tab 3) Technical Strength and Support Capabilities (10 points) https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl/projects/257162/document?section=2460230 http://www.sunbiz.org/

Respondents are to provide the number of years their organization has been performing the type of Services for which they are submitting a response, and examples of similar projects they have undertaken. From a technical perspective, Respondents should explain why their organization should be selected to perform the Services and how their firm can add value to the goals and objectives of the County. Include examples of experience and success providing similar services to other governmental entities.

From a logistics perspective, Respondents are to explain how their organization intends to interact and interface with the

County in the performance of Services.

Respondents are to provide a list of proposed subconsultants and/or subcontractors and a description of the services they will be providing.

Tab 4) Project Approach & Past Similar Projects (50 points)

Respondents are to provide a narrative of their understanding of the Scope of Services and intended approach at performing the Services and resulting work project. Respondents are to provide the rationale behind their approach, any concerns in completing Services, and methods of resolving such concerns. Respondents are to describe any similar approaches implemented and/or managed by their 'team" for governmental clients and describe what assistance will be required from the County.

List a minimum of three (3) Projects comparable in size and scope as described in this Request for Qualifications.

Confidential Respondents shall not be included. Respondents using joint ventures should include former clients of the venture.

Information about each project/client should include the following:

• Project Name / Event Title

• Contact person's name, email address, and telephone number

• Location of project (if different than above)

• Project term and/or performance period

• Approximate fee for Services

• Adherence to budget

• Brief description of project

Tab 5) Required Forms, Documents, and Information (10 points)

1. Copy of current Certificate of Insurance.

2. Copy of applicable professional licenses and/or certifications.

3. All forms and certifications located in the RESPONDENT RESPONSES section must be completed and uploaded, or certified, whichever applies.

Tab 6) Required Submittals & Completeness of Responses (10 points)

This section is for informational purposes and to emphasize the importance of the information requested. Scoring for this tab will depend on each individual scorer's assessment of how complete the responses are.

1. An authorized representative or contracting agent or firm shall sign Responses and forms where indicated.

2. All information provided must be submitted in the manner requested. Failure to submit all information requested might result in a lowered evaluation score of the Response.

3. Submittals shall be comprehensive yet brief. Emphasis should be placed on completeness and clarity.

4. The Responses must include detailed information from Tab 1 through Tab 4.

5. The Responses must include Insurance/Certifications/Financial Requirements.

a. Respondents must provide disclosure of any potential conflict of interest due to any other clients, contracts, or property interests for this project only. Include a notarized statement certifying that no member of your firm ownership, management, or staff has vested interest in any aspect of this Request for Qualifications or department within the County.

b. Provide official letter from Respondent's financial institution detailing financial status of proposer. Letter shall include name, address, phone number, and email address.

c. Additional credit information, including but not limited to, audited financial statements, pro forma issues, or annual reports may be requested.

If Respondent is "teaming up" with other consultants, only the "Lead" consultant who will be entering into an Agreement with the County for Services outlined in this Request for Qualifications is to execute the aforementioned documents.

5. Procurement Information

Respondents are encouraged to carefully review all the materials contained herein and prepare their Response accordingly. The detailed requirements set forth below will be used to evaluate the Proposals. Failure of Respondent to provide the information requested for a specific requirement may render their Response as non-responsive and result in being rejected. Furthermore, failure of Respondent to comply with all terms of this Request for Qualifications may result in disqualification of Respondent and rejection of the response by County.

County shall not be liable for any costs incurred by a Respondent in preparing or producing their Response, or for any

Service provided before execution of an Agreement.

All terms and conditions outlined in this Request for Qualifications and any associated Addenda shall become a part of the

Agreement entered into between County and Successful Respondent.

5.1. Vendor System-OpenGov Registration

County has partnered with OpenGov Procurement, a web-based eProcurement service. Current bid solicitations and associated addenda, notices of recommended bid award, and current bid awards will be posted at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl.

Bid Notifications will be sent electronically via e-mail from OpenGov to registered Bidders. It is the sole responsibility of interested parties to monitor OpenGov for solicitation opportunities and updates.

Visit https://procurement.opengov.com/signup to register. OpenGov is an online Bidder registration system that provides a free, at no cost to Bidder, secure, user-friendly Internet portal and one-stop service center to register with County. This system also allows you to receive automatic email notifications regarding County’s upcoming competitive solicitations as opportunities become available. Registration assistance is available by e-mail procurement-support@opengov.com.

All Citrus County Vendors/Contractors/Consultants will need to register with OpenGov in order to be able to submit

Bids/Proposals/Qualifications etc., to County.

OpenGov Procurement has no affiliation with the County other than as a service that facilitates communication between the

County and its Bidder. OpenGov Procurement is an independent entity and is not an agent or representative of the County.

5.2. Contact Person

All inquiries pertaining to this Request for Qualifications are to be directed to all:

Department of Management & Budget, Purchasing Division

3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 266

Lecanto, Florida, 34461

Phone: 352-527-5457 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl https://procurement.opengov.com/signup mailto:procurement-support@opengov.com

Fax: 352-527-5424

Linda Morse, Purchasing & Contracts Manager, linda.morse@citruscounty.gov

Kathy Milianta, Purchasing & Contracts Specialist, kathy.milianta@citruscounty.gov

Leigha Utter, Purchasing & Contracts Specialist, leigha.utter@citruscounty.gov

Saleem Mahmood, Purchasing Assistant, saleem.mahmood@citruscounty.gov

CAUTION

PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS: In accordance with section 287.057 (25), Florida Statutes, Respondents, or persons acting on their behalf, may not contact any employee or officer of the County concerning any aspect of this solicitation, 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 legal holidays, except in writing to the Contact Person noted above. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response to this solicitation.

5.3. Questions/Additional Terms and Conditions/Variances/Exceptions

Respondents may submit questions about the meaning or intent of this Request for Qualifications or Agreement to the website in written format only and shall submit such on or before the deadline for questions listed in the

Event Timeline. https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162

Interpretations or clarifications considered necessary in response to such questions will be issued by a written

Addendum. Only questions answered by formal written Addendum will be binding. Oral and other interpretations or clarifications will be without legal effect. Questions submitted shall not constitute formal protest of the specifications or of this Request for Qualifications.

A written addendum, if applicable, will be issued online to OpenGov (https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl) and/or

DemandStar® websites in response to questions received.

Issues regarding any and all discrepancies, errors, or ambiguities in the Request for Qualifications documents, including those noted in the Agreement, shall be submitted in writing through https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl on or before the deadline for questions, which is listed in the Event Timeline.

5.4. Event Timeline

Respondents should review and become familiar with the Event Timeline. The dates and times of each activity within the

Timeline may be subject to change. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to check for any changes. All changes to the

Timeline will be made through an addendum to this Request for Qualifications.

If you are hearing or speech impaired, dial 7-1-1 or (800) 955-8771 (TTY) or (800) 955-8770 (v), via Florida Relay Service.

If you need a Spanish Translator, dial 7-1-1 or (800) 955-8771 (TTY) or (800) 955-8773 (v), via Florida Relay Service. For all other languages, please contact Human Resources at (352) 527-5370.

Si usted necesita un Traductor en Español, marque 7-1-1 o (800) 955-8771 (TTY) o (800) 955-8773 (v), a través del Servicio de Retransmisión de Florida.

**All public Meetings are subject to change or can be canceled.

RFQ PROCESS DATE TIME

Issue Request for Qualifications June 6, 2026 N/A

Deadline for Written Questions June 29, 2026 4:00 P.M. (EST) mailto:linda.morse@citrusbocc.com mailto:kathy.milianta@citrusbocc.gov mailto:leigha.utter@citrusbocc.gov mailto:saleem.mahmood@citrusbocc.gov https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/manage

Response Due Date July 7, 2026 2:00 P.M. (EST)

Public Opening of Responses

Microsoft Teams meeting https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8

Meeting ID: 255 144 952 222 078

Passcode: SP3H5nS3

July 7, 2026 2:15 P.M. (EST)

Public Tally of Scores (subject to change)

Microsoft Teams meeting https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/244927829497617?p=5z3Bkmku6gbmVvfp8t

Meeting ID: 244 927 829 497 617

Passcode: z3Hq6yB7

July 28, 2026 10:00 A.M.

(EST)

Effective Date of Contract (subject to change) October 13, 2026 N/A

5.5. Solicitations or Awards in Violation of Law

If, prior to contract award, it is determined that this Solicitation or proposed contract award is in violation of the law, then this Solicitation or contract award shall be cancelled or revised to comply with the law.

If after award of a contract it is determined that this Solicitation or contract award is in violation of law, then the awarded contract may be ratified and affirmed, provided it is determined that doing so is in the best interest of County, or the contract may be terminated.

5.6. Public Opening of Responses

Electronic Responses shall be opened on July 7, 2026, at 2:15 PM. Since qualifications will be evaluated in determining an award, the only information conveyed at the Public Opening will be the names of the Respondents.

Public Opening shall be via a recorded, online “Microsoft Teams” meeting, use link listed below:

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8

Meeting ID: 255 144 952 222 078

Passcode: SP3H5nS3

5.7. Submission of Responses

Electronic Responses for this Request for Qualifications are to be submitted on or before July 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to ensure that their Response is submitted through OpenGov Procurement no later than the time and date specified in the RFQ or subsequent addenda. RESPONDENTS MUST COMPLETE THE

INFORMATION REQUESTED IN THE RESPONDENT RESPONSES SECTION.

Responses shall be submitted through the online solicitation management portal, OpenGov;

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl. You may enter information and/or upload completed forms/documents using the OpenGov portal. Respondents must have registered and received an established account in advance of uploading submissions. When submitting an offer electronically through the solicitation posting portal, please allow sufficient time to complete the online forms and upload documents. The solicitation offer will end at the closing time listed in the Event

Timeline included in this Solicitation. If you are in the middle of uploading your documents at the closing time, the system https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8 https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/244927829497617?p=5z3Bkmku6gbmVvfp8t https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/255144952222078?p=LlNKWBJyvsaUbPUzO8 will stop the process, and your Response will not be received by the system. It is recommended that the submission process be completed the day prior to the due date, with the knowledge that any changes/updates will be accepted up to the due date and time. If technical difficulties arise during submission of the Solicitation submittal, it is the submitting Respondent’s responsibility to contact OpenGov Procurement technical support. For support, click on the “Help” link on the Solicitation

Posting portal; or email procurement-support@opengov.com.

NOTE: In the event there is a verified technical issue with the Platform (and not user/Respondent issues) that prevents all

Respondents from submitting a Response within the two (2) hours immediately before the due time, the County may issue an addendum to extend the solicitation due date and time. However, the technical issue must be a result of the Platform provider (OpenGov Procurement) and affect all participating Respondents. The County shall verify the technical issue or unavailability of the Platform with OpenGov Procurement, and the system provider. Technical issues localized to a single

Respondent will not be considered cause for an extension. County shall not be responsible for delays caused in any occurrence.

5.8. Joint Ventures

Two or more agencies may submit a Response under a joint venture arrangement. Joint ventures shall be considered a single entity in the evaluation of a Response. That is, the traits of individual agencies shall be blended in arriving at an overall Response evaluation score for the joint venture.

An agency that submits a Response under a joint venture arrangement may satisfy the technical certification requirements outlined in this Request for Qualifications as the prime Respondent through one or more of the agencies comprising the

Joint Venture. The Joint Venture shall, at a minimum, comply with the following additional requirements:

1) The Joint Venture shall, in its own name, be registered with the State of Florida Division of Corporations http://www.sunbiz.org/ prior to submittal of a Response.

2) Each individual Agency comprising the Joint Venture shall, in its own name, be qualified in their respective areas of expertise prior to submittal of a Response.

Full compliance with the requirements set forth above is required as well as properly documented compliance with any other certification and additional requirements set forth in the Request for Qualifications.

5.9. Timeliness of Response Submittal

County assumes no responsibility for a Response received after the due date and time. There will be no exceptions to this policy. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to make sure their completed response is uploaded in the Respondent

Responses section (Question #25) by the due date and time listed in the Event Timeline on the OpenGov portal.

5.10. Modification / Withdraw of Response

Respondents have the right to modify or withdraw their Response without cause or without liability whatsoever at any time prior to the stipulated submittal date and time. Such requests must be made to County in writing.

Modified or withdrawn Responses may be resubmitted in accordance with the instructions in this Request for Qualifications prior to the stipulated submittal date and time.

5.11. Less Than Two Responses Received

If less than two Responses are received, County may negotiate the best terms and conditions with that Respondent or reject the Response and re-solicit the Service.

5.12. Local Preference / Contractors

Section 2-211, Citrus County Code, provides that preference shall be given to a "local business" for certain purchases of commodities and services. "Local business" means a Respondent that has paid its local business tax to the County at least six (6) months prior to the date of Response, does business in Citrus County by providing goods, services, or construction, and maintains a physical business address located within the jurisdictional limits of Citrus County in an area zoned for conducting of such business from which the Respondent operates or performs business on a day-to-day basis. Post office boxes do not establish such physical address.

mailto:procurement-support@opengov.com http://www.sunbiz.org/ https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/8800352/projects/257162/builder/document?section=2460230

In the case of Requests for Qualifications, proposals, letters of interest, or other solicitations in which objective factors are used to evaluate the responses, local businesses shall be assigned five percent (5%) of the total evaluation points.

5.13. Examination of Response Documents

It is the responsibility of each Respondent before submitting a Response to: (1) examine the Request for Qualifications

(RFQ) Documents thoroughly (2) consider Federal, State, and Local Laws and Regulations that may affect cost, progress, performance, or furnishing of Services (3) study and carefully correlate Respondent's observations with RFQ Documents

(4) notify the Contact Person of all conflicts, errors, or discrepancies in the RFQ Documents prior to submitting a formal

Response.

Before submitting a Response, it shall be the responsibility of the Respondent to submit to County a request for any additional information and data which pertains to the Project covered under this RFQ that Respondent deems necessary to develop their Response in accordance with the terms and conditions noted herein.

The submission of a Response shall be considered a representation that Respondent: (1) has carefully investigated all conditions that affect, or may at a future date, affect the performance of Services covered by this RFQ (2) is fully informed concerning conditions to be encountered, the character, quality, and quantity of Services to be performed and the work product to be furnished (3) is familiar with what is required to perform Services covered by this RFQ.

Contents of Respondent's Response shall become a contractual obligation if Respondent is awarded the Contract. Failure to accept these obligations in a contractual agreement shall result in cancellation of the Award.

5.14. Public Tally

Individual Scorer's review of Responses will be publicly opened, and total scores will be read aloud on July 28, 2026, at

10:00 A.M. (subject to Change).

Public Tally shall be via a recorded, online “Microsoft Teams” meeting, use link listed below:

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/244927829497617?p=5z3Bkmku6gbmVvfp8t

Meeting ID: 244 927 829 497 617

Passcode: z3Hq6yB7

5.15. Solicitation Protest Procedures

Any Response award recommendation may be challenged on the grounds of material irregularities in the procurement procedure or in the scoring of the Response. Any person who submits a Response but is not recommended for award of the contract may protest such decision in strict compliance with this section. Failure to follow the Solicitation Protest

Procedures within the time frames prescribed herein shall constitute a waiver of such protest and any resulting claims.

1. Notice of Intent to File a Protest: Any person who wishes to file a protest hereunder must file a Notice of Intent to

File a Protest (“Notice”), in writing, with Department of Management and Budget (“DMB”) within 72 hours of posting of a recommendation of award. Such Notice is considered filed when it is received by DMB. A copy of the Notice must also be provided to the apparent best Consultant. The Notice shall include the name and address of the protester, county RFQ number and title, grounds upon which it is based, and must clearly indicate it is a Notice of

Intent to File a Protest.

2. Formal Protest: Within five (5) business days after filing of a written Notice of Intent to File a Protest, a formal protest must be filed with DMB. The formal protest is considered filed when it is received by DMB. A copy of the formal protest must also be provided to the apparent best Consultant. The formal protest shall include the following:

a. County RFQ number and title.

b. Name and address of the protester.

c. Concise statement of the facts alleged and of the rules, regulations, ordinances, statutory or constitutional provision, or other legal authorities entitling the protester to the relief requested.

d. Specifically request the relief to which the protester deems themselves entitled.

e. Any other relevant information that the protester deems to be material to the protest.

3. Protest Bond: Each formal protest must be accompanied by a protest bond in the form of a certified check, cashier’s check, or money order made payable to Citrus County, Florida, in the amount not less than five percent (5%) of the protester’s Response submitted to County. If the protester prevails, the bond shall be returned to the protester.

However, if after completion of the Solicitation Protest Procedures County denies the protest, the bond shall be forfeited to County.

4. Stay of Procurement: Once a formal protest is timely filed, DMB shall stay the award of the contract unless

County Administrator determines that delaying the award of the contract will adversely impact substantial interests of County.

5. Review of Protest by DMB: Within ten (10) business days of filing of the formal protest the DMB Director shall issue a written determination including the rationale for reaching such a determination. The written determination shall also inform the protester of their right to appeal the DMB Director’s decision to County Administrator.

6. Appeal of DMB Determination: The protester may appeal DMB Director’s determination in writing to County

Administrator no later than five (5) business days after receipt of the DMB Director’s determination.

7. Final Determination of County Administrator: Within seven (7) business days of the filing of the appeal, County

Administrator, upon consulting with County Attorney, shall issue a final determination. The decision of County

Administrator will be final.

If needed, a designee will be appointed for the DMB Director and/or County Administrator if they are unable to participate in the protest procedures as outlined herein.

6. Evaluation of Proposals

Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

Points will be assigned to all criteria and totaled to determine Respondent’s score based on the following:

No. Evaluation Criteria Score

(Weight of Importance)

* Title Page 0

* Letter of Transmittal 0

Tab 1 Company Information and Qualifications 10

Tab 2 Proposed Personnel and Qualifications 10

Tab 3 Technical Strength and Support Capabilities 10

Tab 4 Project Approach and Past Similar Projects 50

Tab 5 Required Forms, Documents, and Information 10

Tab 6 Required Submittals and Completeness of Responses 10

Total 100

* Local Preference (see Local Preference Guidelines in section 5) 5

Total Total Possible Points for Proposal Evaluation 105

Scoring of Responses

Response scoring will be conducted by individual scorers in accordance with the criteria outlined in the table above. Each criterion is assigned a weighted value reflecting its relative importance.

For each Respondent, scores assigned by individual scorers for each criterion will be averaged to determine a single criterion score.

The total score for each Respondent will be calculated by summing the scores across all criteria.

In the event of a tie, the Respondent with the highest average score for the evaluation criterion titled “Project Approach and Past Similar Projects” will be ranked higher.

At the election of the Individual Scorers, three (3) or more of the highest-ranking Respondents could be invited to make an oral presentation. Such a presentation will provide an opportunity for the Respondents to provide additional information concerning their company and personnel, and to respond to questions that Individual Scorers may have for clarifying the information provided in the Respondent's Response.

If oral presentations are conducted, the score developed from the Response evaluation shall be added to the score from the oral presentation to arrive at an overall evaluation score. Respondents will then once again be ranked highest (favorable) to lowest (unfavorable).

During the award process, the County may require supplemental information in order to fairly evaluate a Respondent's qualifications. For this purpose, County may request such information from Respondent after initial submittal. If such information is required, Respondent will be notified in writing and allowed a reasonable period of time to submit the information.

County reserves the right to reject any or all Responses, to waive any irregularities or formalities in the Responses received, and to change the scoring process described above if circumstances dictate this or it is otherwise in the best interest of County to do so. In the event a Response is rejected or otherwise does not result in a contract award, County shall not be liable for any costs incurred by the Respondent in connection with the preparation and submittal of their

Response. Additionally, at the discretion of the County, County may elect not to pursue this avenue and abandon the solicitation entirely.

Response Scoring and Award

County reserves the right to: (1) cancel this RFQ (2) reject any or all Responses (3) waive any or all irregularities in the

Responses (4) modify the Scope of Services (5) disregard all nonconforming, non-responsive, unbalanced or conditional

Responses, as long as such does not give any Respondent an advantage or benefit not enjoyed by other Respondents, or does not adversely impact interests of County.

County also reserves the right to re-advertise the RFQ or reject the Response of any Respondent if County believes that it would not be in its best interest. Whether because the Response is non-responsive, Respondent is unqualified or of doubtful financial ability or fails to meet any other pertinent standard or criteria established by County.

In scoring Responses, the County shall consider: (1) qualifications of Respondents (2) whether or not Responses comply with prescribed requirements (3) qualifications, equipment owned, and experience of Respondent's proposed subconsultants (4) any additional terms and conditions or exceptions stipulated by Respondent (5) operating costs, maintenance requirements, performance data, and warranties and guarantees.

County may conduct investigations, seek clarifications, or request any information as County deems necessary to assist in the evaluation of any Response and to establish the responsibility, qualifications, and financial ability of Respondents and their proposed subconsultants. Failure to provide requested information may result in rejection of the Response.

County shall issue a written Notice of Intent to Award, if any, to Successful Respondent. However, no contract shall be formed between Successful Respondent and County until approved at a Citrus County Board of County

Commissioner’s Meeting.

Responsiveness of Responses and Disqualification

A responsive Response is one that complies with and conforms to the requirements of this Request for Qualifications. A

Response requiring changes to any portion of this RFQ may be…