Questions and Answers - Waste Removal Services Not on Master Contract.docx

This is a Questions and Answers document from the Illinois Department of Human Services regarding waste removal services for the Elisabeth Ludeman Center in Park Forest, Cook County. The solicitation (Bid# 26-444DHS-DEVDI-B-52629) seeks a vendor to provide waste hauling services for items not covered under the facility's existing master contract during fiscal year 2027 (July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027). The project requires the supply and maintenance of 46 fifty-gallon toters with three-times-weekly trash pickup, two six-cubic-yard recycling containers with weekly pickup, and plastic liners for each collection cycle. All quantities are estimates subject to adjustment based on operational needs. Proposals were due June 3, 2026. The vendor furnishes all labor, materials, and equipment required for service delivery.

Key operational requirements clarified in the Q&A document specify that only 50-gallon toters are acceptable due to available space constraints at the facility, and facility staff will be responsible for placing liners in the toters each service day rather than the vendor performing this task. The vendor must assume liability for damages to Center property with repairs or replacements required within thirty days of notification or face billing deductions. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability of $1 million per occurrence with $2 million annual aggregate, Auto Liability of $1 million per occurrence, and Workers' Compensation Insurance as required by law. Staff must comply with Center safety protocols, traffic regulations, and OSHA standards with identification cards required at all times. The contract is contingent upon appropriation availability and terminable by the State for convenience with 30 days' notice. Vendors awarded contracts of $1,000 or more must pay a $15 Minority Contractor Initiative fee deducted from the first payment. Payment is governed by the Illinois Prompt Payment Act with invoices for services through June 30 submitted by July 31.