RFP 25022 SANDY CREEK NATURE CENTER EXHIBIT S.pdf

THE UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF

ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY(ACCGov)

DATE: April 8, 2025

TO: Nature Center Exhibit Design and Installation Vendors

SUBJECT: RFP #25022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15

You are invited to submit a proposal to provide professional Nature Center Exhibit Design & Installation services as described herein for the Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit Project to the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County (ACCGov), Owner. This project will replace/update the exhibit graphics & multimedia at the Sandy Creek Nature Center (SCNC), located at 205 Old Commerce Road, Athens, Georgia 30607. This project is being funded through the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax Program, SPLOST 2020, Project 15.

The intent of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to select a professional Nature Center Exhibit Design & Installation Vendor for renovation of the exhibit areas at the SCNC. Once the vendor is selected, ACCGov shall work with the selected vendor to coordinate final project details as necessary. The proposal scope shall include removal of old exhibit area items/equipment (to be retained by the facility), renovation, design, fabrication, procurement and installation of exhibit graphics & multimedia within the footprint of the coastal and wetland exhibit areas at the SCNC. Vendor shall provide proposals, including at least one (1) and up to three (3) design proposals with detailed descriptions of the exhibit items proposed for installation. For each submitted design proposal, the vendor shall also provide a corresponding Price Proposal using Section V-D, Price Proposal Sheet, in accordance with the price proposal requirements outlined in this RFP, and within the budget limit established by ACCGov.

The project budget is set at an all-inclusive value of $250,000, with proposals evaluated for cost-effectiveness while ensuring compliance with all project requirements.

Inquiries regarding proposals should be made to Ed Tulenko, Senior Buyer, (762) 400-6070 or accbids@accgov.com. Technical questions may be directed to Madhuri Angadi, ACCGov SPLOST Project Administrator at 706-613-3025 or email: madhuri.angadi@accgov.com.

A MANDATORY Hybrid Pre-Proposal Meeting to respond to all inquiries with regards to this project followed by an optional site visit will be held on 23rd April, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, at Sandy Creek Nature Center, located at 205 Old Commerce Rd, Athens, Georgia 30607. Potential offerors are required to attend the meeting either virtually - Use this link to join Pre-proposal Meeting or in-person at 205 Old Commerce Road, Athens, Georgia 30607.

One (1) USB Flash drive with a copy of the Proposal WITHOUT Pricing One (1) Separately Sealed USB Flash drive with a copy of section V-D Price Proposal Schedule

Proposals are to be sealed, marked with the offeror's name and address and labeled, “RFP #025022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15” and delivered to:

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County

Finance Department, Purchasing Division 375 Satula Avenue

Athens, Georgia 30601 mailto:accbids@athensclarkecounty.com mailto:madhuri.angadi@accgov.com https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDczY2U5M2EtYTExNS00ODZmLWFlNTMtZWE4MTk1MmE1M2Fm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2288f0613b-d424-4aa8-b4ad-8752f060c3a0%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%227d05e0dc-da01-4200-b23b-b5d7ba423225%22%7d

Not later than 3:00 P.M. ET, 8th May, 2025

A qualified interpreter for the hearing impaired is available upon request at least 10 (ten) days in advance of the proposal opening date. Please call (706) 613-3088 for more information. This service is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Hand delivered copies may be delivered to the above address ONLY between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. E.T., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County.

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive any technicalities or irregularities, and to award the contract based on the highest and best interest of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION TITLE

I REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

II REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL OVERVIEW AND PROCEDURES

III SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

B. GENERAL PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

C. DEFINITIONS

D. SPECIFIC REQUIRED SERVICES

IV SELECTION PROCESS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

V MANDATORY PROPOSAL FORMS

A: PROPOSAL FORM

B: ADDENDA ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

C: GEORGIA SECURITY & IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE (GSIC)

AFFIDAVIT CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT & AGREEMENT

D: PRICE PROPOSAL SCHEDULE

(Must be submitted in a separately sealed envelope)

E: BUSINESS INCLUSION POLICY GOOD FAITH EFFORTS

VI DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

ATTACHMENT A: WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT GEORGIA’S E-

VERIFY REQUIREMENTS

ATTACHMENT B: SCOPE OF WORK

ATTACHMENT C: SANDY CREEK NATURE CENTER EXHIBIT – AREA LAYOUT

ATTACHMENT D: CONTRACTUAL REQUIREMENTS

• Agreement for Exhibit Design & Installation Professional Services

• Performance Bond – Section 00610

• Payment Bond – Section 00620

SECTION I - REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

ALL PROPOSALS RECEIVED WILL BECOME A PART OF THE OFFICIAL CONTRACT FILE AND

MAY BE SUBJECT TO DISCLOSURE.

A complete signed proposal must include the documents listed below:

PROPOSAL FORMAT: Offerors are expected to examine the specifications and all instructions. Failure to do so will be at the offeror’s risk. Each offeror shall furnish the information required by the solicitation.

The proposal & price proposal schedule must be signed by an officer of the company, who is legally authorized to enter into a contractual relationship in the name of the offeror.

All proposals received will become a part of the official contract file and may be subject to disclosure.

All proposals are to be in pdf format and bookmarked to the first page of each the sections listed below.

All references to a page(s), shall mean a single sided 8.5”x11” page and 11”x17” page for design proposal, if printed. Font style or size is not specified. However, no font styles or sizes should be used that when printed at 8.5”x11” that are smaller than Times New Roman 12 pt. No margins shall be smaller than 0.5” in any direction.

PROPOSAL FORMAT: All proposals should include the information outlined below and in the following order:

1. Cover Letter: A brief cover letter of introduction and interest.

2. Table of Contents: Including all sections and subsections.

3. Business Information (One-page limit for this section): State the full name and address of your organization and the branch office or subordinate element that will perform the services described in this proposal. Include a telephone number, the point of contact and official signature of an authorized company representative. Indicate whether you operate as a single proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Include the state(s) in which you are incorporated and/or licensed to operate.

4. Qualifications and Experience (Two-page limit for this section): Include an organization chart and summary resumes of key personnel proposed for the project, including designations of the team leader, the consultant responsible for design, the project architect, the person responsible for all proposed communications with the owner and all proposed sub-consultants and a description of their roles.

5. References: Provide a minimum of three references for contracts/work preferably of different recent works, less than three years ago, for similar type projects as described in the RFP; preference is for public sector references and/or similar project references, if possible. Include the name, address, and telephone number of the point of contact. Provide a brief description of the specific work and/or responsibility the Offeror provided for each referenced project and when such work was completed.

6. Understanding of the Project: Provide Statement of the firm's understanding of the project and proposed approach for providing requested services. The response shall include all of the items identified in the proposal from design, procurement, installation through handover. Incorporate the timeline anticipated for each major step and the procedures to ensure a quality installation. If material delivery is expected to be an issue provide details on what delays are expected. Address access and job needs for completion of work, to be coordinated while occurring within Nature Center considering its operational hours. Furnish evidence of the firm’s fit to the project, any special or unique qualifications for the project, or unique approaches to this project.

7. Design Proposal: Vendors shall submit at least one (1) and up to three (3) detailed design proposals for the installation of exhibit graphics & multimedia, reflecting the firm’s understanding of the project requirements as outlined in the RFP. The design proposal shall include all Must Have items identified in Attachment B - Scope of Work and incorporate as many Nice to Have items as the project budget permits. The proposal shall provide a summary list of all proposed elements for each exhibit item, including drawings, renderings, item datasheets, and any additional information necessary to illustrate the vendor’s design intent. To ensure consistency, the design shall integrate existing exhibit templates, fonts, and styles used in other areas of the SCNC exhibit hall as outlined in Attachment B – Scope of Work. ACCGov will provide electronic files for exhibit templates, fonts, and styles after vendor selection to include in final design package. The proposed design shall be submitted as a PDF, formatted to be readable and printable at 11x17 size. Vendors shall also include detailed warranty information and the warranty period for all items included in the design proposal. ACCGov reserves the right to review and customize an overall preferred design to align with project goals and priorities.

This comprehensive approach ensures the design aligns with the project’s functional and aesthetic requirements while maintaining consistency across the exhibits.

For each submitted design proposal, vendors shall provide a corresponding Price Proposal that reflects all-inclusive pricing, covering but not limited to design, fabrication, delivery, and installation. Vendors shall use Section V-D (Price Proposal Sheet) to submit pricing in the following format:

• Section 1: A lump sum price proposal shall include all Must Have items from Attachment B –

Scope of Work, and as many Nice to Have items that can be accommodated within the $250,000 project budget. This section should list item names along with their scope and quantities.

• Section 2: A line-item price proposal shall include any Nice to Have items that cannot be included in Section 1 due to budget constraints. Vendors shall provide a breakdown of each item with its scope, quantity, unit price, and total price.

The price proposal must clearly differentiate between Must Have and Nice to Have items and indicate which are included in Section 1 and which are proposed in Section 2. This structure allows ACCGov to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating Add-Ons based on priority and available funding.

8. Other Relevant Information: Include any other relevant information concerning the project in this section.

9. Mandatory Documents: This section should include the Section V-Mandatory Proposal Forms A-E noted in the Table of Contents.

SUBMITTAL FORMAT: ALL proposal USBs must be submitted in a sealed envelope or container with the OUTERMOST container stating the company name, address, telephone number, the RFP number and TITLE (RFP #025022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15)

If you have an ACCGov Vendor Number please include it on the sealed envelope or container. If you do not know or have a vendor number, please note we are not entering “bid only” vendors into our database. We will set up your company if you are awarded the RFP. Please rest assured that the vendor number is not a requirement for submitting your bid and will not count against you in any way.

One (1) USB Flash drive with a copy of the Proposal WITHOUT Pricing One (1) Separately Sealed USB Flash drive with a copy of section V-D Price Proposal Schedule

Offerors are responsible for informing any commercial delivery service, if used, of all delivery requirements and for ensuring that the required address information appears on the outer wrapper or envelope used by such service. No responsibility shall attach to the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County for the premature opening of a proposal not properly addressed and identified, and/or delivered to the proper or Improper address. Proposals via facsimile will NOT be considered.

ALL DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED ON USB FLASH

DRIVE MUST BE IN A SINGLE PDF FILE

SECTION II - REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL OVERVIEW AND PROCEDURES

A. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

The ACCGov is a unified city/county government located in the northeast section of the state of Georgia and is approximately sixty (60) miles northeast of Atlanta, Georgia. The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County (the government’s official name) was formed in 1991 by a referendum which required the combining of The City of Athens and Clarke County. ACCGov serves an area population of approximately 130,000 with annual growth projected at 1% per year. ACCGov provides a multitude of local and state-funded services, which includes, but is not limited to, Public Safety, Utility, Courts, Corrections, Tax and Fire Services. ACCGov employs approximately 1,900 people.

On November 5, 2019 the citizens of Athens-Clarke County approved a Referendum to continue a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) to provide funding for specific capital improvements for Sandy Creek Nature Center located at 205 Old Commerce Rd., Athens, Georgia.

The ACCGov desires to solicit competitive proposals from responsible vendors to provide professional nature center exhibit design & installation services as described herein for the Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit Project. This capital construction project is to be funded through the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax Program, SPLOST 2020, Project 15.

The vendor shall provide services per the scope of services as indicated in Section III of this RFP.

B. RFP TIMETABLE

The anticipated schedule for the RFP and contract approval is as follows:

Proposal Documents Available ……………….…….April 8th, 2025

Mandatory Hybrid Pre-proposal Conference………..2:00 P.M. ET, April 23rd, 2025 (to join online here’s MS Teams link: Use this link to join Pre-proposal Meeting) Deadline for submission of questions ................ ……3:00 P.M. ET, April 25th, 2025 Deadline for receipt of proposal ........................ ……3:00 P.M. ET, May 8th, 2025 Evaluation/Selection Process………………………..May, 2025 Interview/Presentations (if conducted)……………...May, 2025 (exact dates TBD) Proposals are valid until……………………………..120 days from date of opening

C. CONTACT PERSON

The Contact Person for this RFP is Ed Tulenko, Senior Buyer. Explanation(s) desired by the offeror(s) regarding the meaning or interpretation of this RFP must be requested from the Contact Person, in writing via facsimile at (706) 340-6070 or accbids@accgov.com. Technical questions may be directed to Madhuri Angadi, ACCGov SPLOST Assistant Program Administrator at 706-613-3025 or email:

madhuri.angadi@accgov.com. Offerors are encouraged to contact only the Contact Persons stated above to clarify any part of this RFP. Any such unauthorized contact shall not be used as a basis for responding to this RFP and also may result in the rejection of the offeror's submittal.

D. MINIMUM PROPOSAL ACCEPTANCE PERIOD

Proposals shall be valid and may not be withdrawn for a period of 120 days from the date specified for receipt of proposals.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDczY2U5M2EtYTExNS00ODZmLWFlNTMtZWE4MTk1MmE1M2Fm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2288f0613b-d424-4aa8-b4ad-8752f060c3a0%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%227d05e0dc-da01-4200-b23b-b5d7ba423225%22%7d mailto:accbids@athensclarkecounty.com mailto:madhuri.angadi@accgov.com

E. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ADDENDA

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County will issue responses to inquiries and any other corrections or amendments it deems necessary in written addenda issued prior to the proposal due date. Offerors should not rely on any representations, statements or explanations other than those made in this RFP or in any addendum to this RFP. Where there appears to be a conflict between the RFP and any addenda issued, the last addendum issued will prevail.

Request for additional information or clarifications must be made in writing no later than the date specified in the RFP Timetable. The request must contain the offeror's name, address, phone number, and fax number, and email address.

Offerors must acknowledge any issued addenda. Proposals which fail to acknowledge the offeror’s receipt of any addendum will result in the rejection of the proposal if the addendum contained information which substantively changed the Owner’s requirements

Offerors who obtain this Request for Proposal from Georgia Procurement Registry or Athens Clarke County/Purchasing (https://www.athensclarkecounty.com/Bids.aspx)or from other than the Purchasing Division are advised to re-visit the above websites to obtain any addenda which may be issued prior to the proposal closing date. The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County assumes no responsibility for Offerors’ failure to acknowledge any addenda issued

F. LATE PROPOSALS, WITHDRAWALS, MODIFICATIONS AND REJECTIONS

Proposals shall not be modified, withdrawn, or canceled by the offeror for a period of 120 days following the time and date designated for the receipt of proposals, and each offeror so agrees in submitting his proposal. Negligence on the part of the Offeror in the preparation of his proposal shall not be grounds for the modification or withdrawal of a proposal after the time set for proposal closing.

Proposals received after the proposal due date and time are late and will not be considered.

Modifications received after the proposal due date are also late and will not be considered

G. PROPOSAL CLOSING

Proposal pricing schedules will not be opened or read aloud publicly. A list of names of firms providing proposals may be obtained from Georgia Procurement Registry or Athens Clarke County Bids or via email request to E-Mail: accbids@accgov.com after the proposal due date and time stated herein. A tabulation of prices may be obtained upon award.

H. NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

By submitting a proposal, the offeror represents and warrants that such proposal is genuine and not sham or collusive or made in the interest or on behalf of any person not therein named and that the offeror has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other offeror to put in a sham proposal, or any other person, firm or corporation to refrain from proposing and that the offeror has not in any manner sought by collusion to secure to that offeror any advantage over any other offeror.

By submitting a proposal, the offeror represents and warrants that no official or employee of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County has, in any manner, an interest, directly or indirectly in the proposal or in the contract which may be made under it, or in any expected profits to arise therefrom.

I. GEORGIA SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE ACT AFFIDAVIT

By submitting a proposal and executing the attached Affidavits, the offeror verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. §13-10-91. The offeror further agrees to maintain records of such compliance and shall http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp http://www.athensclarkecounty.com/index.aspx?NID=375 http://www.athensclarkecounty.com/index.aspx?NID=375 https://www.athensclarkecounty.com/Bids.aspx http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_public_routing.jsp?route_code=nigp_list http://ga-athensclarkecounty.civicplus.com/Bids.aspx http://ga-athensclarkecounty.civicplus.com/Bids.aspx mailto:accbids@athensclarkecounty.com provide a copy of each such verification to Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, at the time the subcontractor(s) is retained to perform such services.

J. COST INCURRED BY OFFERORS

All expenses involved with the preparation and submission of proposals to the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, or any work performed in connection therewith shall be borne by the offeror(s). No payment will be made for any responses received or for any other effort required of or made by the offeror(s) prior to the commencement of work as defined by a contract approved by the governing body of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County.

K. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY STATEMENT

It is the policy of the Athens-Clarke County government that no person or business shall be excluded from participation, denied the benefits of, or otherwise discriminated against in relation to the award and performance of any contract or subcontract on the grounds of race, color, creed, national origin, age, or sex.

L. HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFICATION

The Offeror agrees, insofar as it legally may, to indemnify and hold harmless the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, its officers, employees and agents from and against all loss, costs, expenses, including attorneys' fees, claims, suits and judgments, whatsoever in connection with injury to or death of any person or persons or loss of or damage to property resulting from any and all operations performed by Offeror, its officers, employees, and agents under any of the terms of this contract.

M. SITE VISIT:

Offerors are urged and expected to inspect the site where services are to be performed and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of contract performance, to the extent that the information is reasonably obtainable. In no event, shall failure to inspect the site constitute grounds for a claim after contract award.

If the offeror could not attend the scheduled pre-proposal site visits, or wishes to return on a different day, the Nature Center must be called prior to any drop-in visits. The current Nature Center is open to the public and frequently used by school groups during the week. Out of respect for these groups, any visits must be scheduled, through one of the facility Supervisors. They can be contacted at 706-613- 3615. Even at these times, the Nature Center may be in use by public and other guests who have priority to the facility. The Nature Center hours are 8:30 am – 5:30 pm and closed on ALL Sundays & Mondays. Access will not be allowed on a day the facility is closed.

N. AWARD OF CONTRACT

This is a past performance/technical/price trade-off source selection in which competing offeror’s past and present performance history and technical ability will be evaluated on a basis approximately equal to price. Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal represents the best value after evaluation in accordance with the factors listed in Section IV herein. The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County may reject any or all proposals if such action is in the Unified Government’s interest.

O. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County will not contemplate traveling outside the City of Athens to the contractor’s facility for custom fitting or alterations. The offeror shall insert in the spaces provided in the price schedule the address of the plants or facilities location(s) that he intends to use.

P. QUALIFICATION OF OFFERORS

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County may make such reasonable investigations as deemed proper and necessary to determine the ability of the offeror to perform the work and the offeror shall furnish to the Unified Government all such information and data for this purpose as may be requested. The Unified Government reserves the right to reject any proposal if the evidence submitted by, or investigations of, such offeror fails to satisfy the Unified Government that such offeror is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the contract and to complete the work contemplated therein.

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County contractors/vendors must have a current Athens-

Clarke County business license if they are physically located in Athens-Clarke County or if they perform a service in Athens-Clarke County.

Proposals from any offeror that is in default on the payment of any taxes, license fees, or other monies due to the Unified Government will not be accepted.

Q. ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

Alternate proposals or proposals that deviate from the requirements of this solicitation will not be considered. Offerors shall not insert in their proposal any written statement which will have the effect of making any material change or changes in the Scope of Services or in any contract between the parties covering subject matter thereof.

R. OPEN RECORDS

In accordance with OCGA Section 50-18-72(a)(34) Any trade secrets obtained from a person or business entity that are required by law, regulation, bid, or request for proposal to be submitted to an agency. An entity submitting records containing trade secrets that wishes to keep such records confidential under this paragraph shall submit and attach to the records an affidavit affirmatively declaring that specific information in the records constitute trade secrets pursuant to Article 27 of Chapter 1 of Title 10. If such entity attaches such an affidavit, before producing such records in response to a request under this article, the agency shall notify the entity of its intention to produce such records as set forth in this paragraph. If the agency makes a determination that the specifically identified information does not in fact constitute a trade secret, it shall notify the entity submitting the affidavit of its intent to disclose the information within ten days unless prohibited from doing so by an appropriate court order. In the event the entity wishes to prevent disclosure of the requested records, the entity may file an action in superior court to obtain an order that the requested records are trade secrets exempt from disclosure. The entity filing such action shall serve the requestor with a copy of its court filing. If the agency makes a determination that the specifically identified information does constitute a trade secret, the agency shall withhold the records, and the requester may file an action in superior court to obtain an order that the requested records are not trade secrets and are subject to disclosure;

S. NON-DISCRIMINATION ORDINANCE

Contractor agrees to abide by and be bound by Chapter 6-21 of the Code of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, regarding Unlawful Discrimination and agrees to ensure that any and all subcontractors operating pursuant to this solicitation also agree to abide by and be bound by Chapter 6-21 of the Code of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia.”

SECTION III - SCOPE OF SERVICES

The vendor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and services necessary to provide nature center exhibit design & installation turn-key services for Sandy Creek Nature Center as per the scope of services outlined below:

A. GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The objective of this project is to enhance and update various interpretive exhibits at the Sandy Creek Nature Center, focusing on both wetland and coastal exhibits. The exhibits highlight the diverse ecosystems of Georgia, including coastal dunes, shallow coastal waters, and marsh habitats. The project will include the re-design of interactive displays, improved signage, and updates to exhibit structures. The exhibit graphics & multimedia design goals are:

1. Project design shall promote interactivity, learning, and development.

2. Project design shall align with the current nature center theme of Georgia's natural environments.

3. Project exhibit design shall match existing exhibit format to create a cohesive outlook.

4. Project design shall utilize durable surfaces/materials that optimize longevity and minimize maintenance requirements.

5. The design will allow for flexibility in updating exhibit content over time.

6. Project design shall prioritize accessibility and ensure ADA compliance.

B. GENERAL PROJECT REQUIREMENTS:

1. Physical Security: The contractor shall safeguard all Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, vehicles, facilities, support equipment, and materials shall be secured.

2. Access Control: The Nature Center is open for work on Tuesday – Saturday from 8:30 am to 5:30

pm. Work must be completed within these hours. Evening and weekend hours are only permitted with permission.

3. The following sections of Contract Requirements as provided in Attachment D will be required to be executed and/or provided by the selected vendor prior to Contract Execution.

• Agreement for Exhibit Professional Services with Insurance Certificates

C. SPECIFIC REQUIRED SERVICES:

The services required for this project includes collaboration with ACCGov’s staff to deliver a comprehensive “Turn-Key” proposal as detailed in the RFP and Attachment B – Scope of Work. The services includes, but is not limited to, the removal of existing exhibit area items (which will be retained by the facility), as well as the design, fabrication, procurement, and installation of exhibit graphics & multimedia items. Proposals shall include all Must Have items specified in Attachment B

– Scope of Work and include as many Nice to Have items as the project budget permits, in conjunction with the Must Have items. Vendors are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the project requirements and ensure all deliverables aligns with the functional and aesthetic goals outlined in the RFP.

D. DEFINITIONS:

1. ACCGov – The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, inclusive of all designated representatives and staff to manage the Project. The “Owner” on this Project.

2. Contractor – used interchangeably in this RFP and resulting contract with the term Vendor & Offeror.

3. Evaluation Committee – This Committee shall be composed of qualified persons approved by ACCGov to review and evaluate respondent firms’ proposals and other submittals. The Committee shall be comprised of qualified representatives or stakeholders of ACCGov.

SECTION IV - SELECTION PROCESS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County intends to evaluate proposals and award a contract with or without discussions with offerors. Therefore, the offeror’s initial proposal should contain the offeror’s best terms from a price and technical standpoint. The Unified Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Unified Government later determines them to be necessary.

EVALUATION CRITERIA: Based on the proposal format and the required sections of the proposal as outlined in Section II, the evaluation criteria are as follows:

A. PROPOSAL FORMAT: In this section the evaluation will be on the overall look of the proposal and how well the Offeror followed the instructions of the proposal format provided in Section I. For example, evaluators will be looking for completeness of the pdf file (bookmarks, tabs, hyperlinks, file names, etc.). (Scored out of 5 Points)

B. EXPERIENCE & REFERENCES: In this section the evaluation will be on the proposed individual staff and sub consultants assigned to the project and experience with similar projects. Assesses list of past project references along with customer satisfaction with the vendor on prior projects. References should be requested for validation of the information provided by the vendor. (Scored out of 15 Points)

C. UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT: In this section the evaluation will be on apparent understanding of the project and project approach. Assesses whether the Offeror has given sufficient evidence of having fully understood the requirements of the entire project stated in the scope of work and referenced attachments. (Scored out of 15 points)

D. DESIGN PROPOSAL: Evaluates the unique and innovative design approach in maximizing Must

Have and Nice to Have items. Assesses the creativity, functionality, and mix of items within the exhibit footprint. Reviews the quality of the design, durability of exhibit items, and overall value, ensuring alignment with project goals and existing exhibit styles. (Scored out of 40 points)

E. PRICE PROPOSAL: Assesses the number of Must Have and Nice to Have items provided within the provided base project budget. Evaluates whether the Price Proposal is all-inclusive, and whether it provides a clear breakdown of items included within budget and over the budget. Assesses whether the proposed pricing is reasonable, and aligns with industry standards. (Scored out of 25 points)

ADDITIONAL EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR THE SHORTLISTED FIRMS: Firms that are shortlisted and interviewed with have the additional scoring criteria:

F. INTERVIEW/PRESENTATION (if conducted): In this section the evaluation will be on the how well the team presents its understanding of the project and design proposal. The interview will be used to reconsider all of the information from the written proposal and whether the interview provides additional clarity to the submitted proposal or detracts from the submitted proposal. The interview will assess the interaction between the evaluation committee members and those that will be performing the work. (Scored out of 20 Points)

PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND CONTRACT AWARD

Based on the evaluation criteria, the Selection Committee will review and assign a score to each proposal.

Proposals which rank highest upon completion of the scoring process will be short-listed. The number of short-listed firms will depend on the total number of submitted proposals. These shortlisted firms may be invited to interview/formal presentation of their firm's experience, project approach, design and Price

Proposal. Upon completion of the short-listed firms interviews/presentations, the Selection Committee will then score each presentation and the highest rated firm, after the interviews/presentations scoring process, considering price and price-related factors, will be recommended for award.

SECTION V – PROPOSAL FORMS

A: PROPOSAL FORM

Proposal of___________________________________________________________

(Hereinafter called "Offeror"), organized and existing under the laws of the State of

__________________________, doing business as ________________________________*.

In compliance with your RFP, the Offeror hereby proposes and agrees to perform and furnish all work for the requirement known as RFP #025022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15, in strict accordance with the Proposal Documents, within the time set forth therein, and at the price proposed.

By submission of this Proposal, the Offeror certifies, and in the case of a joint Offer, each party thereto certifies as to its own organization that:

1. The Offeror has examined and carefully studied the Proposal Documents and the Addenda, receipt of all of which is hereby acknowledged at Section V-B.

2. The Offeror agrees that this proposal may not be revoked or withdrawn after the time set for the opening of proposals but shall remain open for acceptance for a period of sixty (60) days following such time.

Company:

Contact:

Address:

Phone: Fax

Email:

By checking this box, I acknowledge that I have read all insurance requirements and will meet requirements listed in RFP #025022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15 if awarded.

Authorized Representative/Title (print or type)

Authorized Representative (Signature)

Date

MANDATORY FORM

B: ADDENDA ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Offeror has examined and carefully studied the Specifications and the following Addenda, Receipt of all of which is hereby acknowledged:

Addendum No.

dated

Acknowledgement

Initial

Offerors must acknowledge any issued addenda. Proposals which fail to acknowledge the offeror’s receipt of any addendum will result in the rejection of the proposal if the addendum contained information which substantively changes the Owner’s requirements.

Company Name (printed):

C: GEORGIA SECURITY & IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE (GSIC) AFFIDAVIT

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County and Contractor agree that compliance with the requirements of O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, as amended, and Rule 300-10-1-.02 of the Rules of the Georgia Department of Labor are conditions of this Agreement for the physical performance of services.

The Contractor further agrees that its compliance with the requirements of O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, as amended, and DOL Rule 300-10-1-.02 is attested to on the executed Contractor Affidavit and Agreement attached hereto.

If employing or contracting with any subcontractor(s) in connection with this Agreement, Contractor further agrees:

(1) To secure from the subcontractor(s) an affidavit attesting to the subcontractor’s compliance with O.C.G.A.

§ 13-10-91, as amended, and DOL Rule 300-10-1-.02; such affidavit being in the form attached hereto; and

The failure of Contractor to supply the affidavit of compliance at the time of execution of this Agreement and/or the failure of Contractor to continue to satisfy the obligations of O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, as amended, and DOL Rule 300-10- 1-.02 as set forth in this Agreement throughout the contract period shall constitute a material breach of the contract.

Upon notice of such breach, Contractor shall be entitled to cure the breach within ten days, upon providing satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of this Agreement and State law. Should the breach not be cured, Athens-Clarke County shall be entitled to all available remedies, including termination of the contract and damages.

SEE AFFIDAVIT ON FOLLOWING PAGE

C: CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT & AGREEMENT UNDER O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b)(1)

By executing this affidavit, the undersigned contractor verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, as amended, stating affirmatively that the individual, firm or corporation which is engaged in the physical performance of services on behalf of The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, has registered with, is authorized to use, and uses the federal work authorization program commonly known as E- Verify, or any subsequent replacement program, in accordance with the provisions and deadlines established in O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, as amended.

Furthermore, the undersigned will continue to use the federal work authorization program throughout the contract period and the undersigned contractor will contract for the physical performance of services in satisfaction of such contract only with subcontractors who present an affidavit to the contractor with the information required by O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b). Contractor hereby attests that its federal work authorization user identification number and date of authorization are as follows:

Federal Work Authorization Company Identification Number Date of Authorization

Name of Contractor: _______________________________________________________________

Name of Project: _______________________________________________________________

Name of Public Employer: The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County

I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on ____, ___________, 202__ in _______________________, _____________________.

Signature of Authorized Officer or Agent

Printed Name and Title of Authorized Officer or Agent

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN BEFORE ME ON THIS THE

____ DAY OF ____________, 202_

Notary Public My Commission Expires:

D: PRICE PROPOSAL SCHEDULE (Must be submitted separately in a sealed envelope)

Vendors must submit their pricing using the Price Proposal Sheet, available at the link below:

Price Proposal Sheet Link

For the total project price of up to $250,000, we will design, furnish and install all equipment as outlined in the Price Proposal - Section 1

We further agree to the payment milestones as outlined in the table below:

Payment Milestone Item Payment Schedule Percentage of Total Cost

Phase I: Complete Design Package Submitted & Approved by Owner 10%

Phase II: Fabrication and Delivery 20%

Phase III: Installation (open for use) 60%

Phase IV: Final Completion Documentation 10%

Can the Vendor have the project completed within 90 calendar days after Notice To Proceed? (Check the box) ☐ Yes ☐No

If No, then Vendor shall provide the number of calendar days, after Notice to Proceed needed to complete all phase of the project _____Calendar Days.

By checking this box, I acknowledge that the cost listed above is the total turn-key cost for RFP #025022 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit, SPLOST 2020 Project 15 without project additions.

$_________________ Total Additional Cost for Items Outside the Project Budget (As outlined in the Price Proposal - Section 2, includes items not covered in the base $250,000 scope.

Actual additional cost amount depends on selected add-ons)

Authorized Representative/Title (print or type)

Authorized Representative (Signature)

Company Name (printed):

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/nrn2cmtlo2s5w6zeyok5b/RFP-025022_Price-Proposal.xlsx?rlkey=1cq9dfv3f9xebpgnkmaalxnw2&dl=0

SECTION V- PROPOSAL FORMS

E: BUSINESS INCLUSION POLICY

Article 1: Athens Clarke County Business Inclusion Policy Overview

The ACCGov Business Inclusion Policy seeks to remediate the ongoing effects of (private) marketplace discrimination that the Disparity Study found to adversely affect the participation of Minority and Women Business Enterprises in government construction and A&E contracts. The ACCGov Business Inclusion Policy further seeks to enhance competition in government contracting and promote economic growth and development in the Disparity Study geographical area by:

1. Increasing awareness of available minority and women vendors and the available product lines and services they provide through the development of a Minority Business Enterprise and Women Business Enterprise Vendor Availability Database;

2. Increasing Minority and Women Business Enterprise utilization in construction and A&E contracting;

3. Monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on Minority and Women Business Enterprises (here after

“M/WBE”) participation and contract compliance with the provisions of the ACCGov Business Inclusion Policy.

All contract-by-contract subcontracting goals will be set pursuant to the ACCBI Policy. It is intended that such goal setting will be based upon the Disparity Study Relevant Area analysis of the availability of Commercially Useful subcontracting opportunities within a given industry and the relative availability of M/WBE firms to perform required tasks on such subcontract opportunities. Such contract-by-contract goal setting shall be based upon reasonably reliable Respondent and Subcontractor availability data. Compliance with contract-specific subcontracting goals shall also require compliance with Good Faith Efforts and waiver procedures as established below in Article 2 of this document.

To review the full Business Inclusion Policy please visit:

https://www.accgov.com/DocumentCenter/View/106909/ACCGov-Business-Inclusion-Policy

Article 2: Athens Clarke County Business Inclusion Policy Good Faith Efforts

As stated in the Business Inclusion Policy “Adequate Good Faith Efforts” mean that the Bidder took all necessary and reasonable steps to achieve the subcontracting goal which, by their scope, intensity, and appropriateness, could reasonably be expected to obtain sufficient M/WBE participation. Adequate Good Faith Efforts also mean that the Bidder actively and aggressively sought M/WBE participation. Mere pro forma efforts are not considered Good Faith Efforts. If adequate Good Faith Efforts have not been documented, the Government reserves the right to deem the Bidder unresponsive.” Bidders that are subcontracting must complete five (5) out of the twelve (12) below actions for each area of work for which they intend to subcontract.

PLEASE NOTE: The Government will not give Good Faith Effort credit toward subcontracting goals for subcontracting to M/WBEs that are found to be Affiliates of the Bidder prior to the proposal due date.

Bidders shall be deemed to have knowledge of all ACCBI Policy provisions, including those relating to Affiliates.

The aspirational goal for M/WBE participation in this contract is 12%.

https://www.accgov.com/DocumentCenter/View/106909/ACCGov-Business-Inclusion-Policy

1. Contracting M/WBEs: Bidder must contact M/WBEs in a reasonable manner to reach each subcontracting goal on a specific contract. Factors include, but are not limited to:

● The number of M/WBEs contacted;

● Contacting M/WBEs that reasonably could have been expected to submit a quote and that were known to the Bidder or available on the Government’s maintained list;

● Soliciting through all reasonable and available means (e.g. attendance at pre-bid meetings or in pre-bid conferences, advertising, written notices, use of verifiable electronic means through the use of the Government’s list of available M/WBE firms) the interest of certified M/WBEs who have the capability to perform the work of the contract;

● The Bidder solicits this interest at least ten (10) days prior to the bid opening to allow the M/WBEs to respond to the solicitation;

● Whether contacts were made and were documented in a verifiable way;

● Whether the Bidder responded promptly and adequately to inquiries from M/WBEs; and

● Whether the Bidder made follow-up contact with M/WBEs that did not respond to the Bidder’s initial contact+

2. Followed up with M/WBEs. Followed up with contacted M/WBE subsequent to the initial contact and at least 72 hours prior to submittal deadline/bid opening either by phone, writing, or in person.

3. Attendance at Pre-Proposal. Did the Bidder attend pre-proposal meetings scheduled by the Government for the contract in question?

4. Breaking down work. Selecting portions of the work to be performed by M/WBEs in order to increase the likelihood that the M/WBE Goals will be achieved. Where appropriate, breaking out contract work items into economically feasible units to facilitate M/WBE participation, even when the Prime Contractor might otherwise prefer to perform these work items with its own forces. Did the Bidder break down or combine portions of the work to be performed by M/WBE in an economically feasible way in order to increase M/WBE participation?

5. Working with the Community Business Procurement Coordinator and other related groups.

Bidder documents that it worked with the CBPC, available minority community organizations, minority contractors’ groups, local minority business assistance offices, and/or other local organizations that provide assistance in the recruitment and placement of minorities and women to solicit bids for the contract for which the bid was sought. Did the Bidder document that it worked with the M/WBE assistance organization, as applicable, to provide assistance in recruiting M/WBEs for the contract?

6. Negotiating in Good Faith. Negotiating in good faith with interested M/WBEs and not rejecting

M/WBEs as being unqualified without sound reasons based on a thorough investigation of their capabilities. The M/WBE’s standing within its industry, membership in specific groups, organizations, or associates and political or social affiliations (for example, union vs. non-union employee status) are not legitimate causes for the rejection or non-solicitation of bids in the Bidder’s efforts to meet the project goal. The Bidder shall document in writing the reasons for any rejection of an M/WBE based on lack of qualifications. Did the Bidder document having engaged in at least some back-and-forth negotiation between itself and interested M/WBE?

7. Making Plans Available. Providing prospective M/WBEs with adequate information about the plans, specifications, and requirements of the contract in a timely manner or within 10 days before the bid proposals are due to assist them in responding to a solicitation.

8. Bonding or Insurance Assistance on Construction Contracts. Providing assistance to interested

M/WBEs in obtaining bonding, lines of credit, or insurance as required by the recipient or Bidder or providing alternatives to bonding or insurance for subcontractor. Did the Bidder provide significant and meaningful assistance to an M/WBE in getting required bonding or insurance coverage for the contract at issue or provide alternatives to bonding or insurance for M/WBEs? No Good Faith Effort credit will be given for assistance to an Affiliate of the Bidder as it pertains to bonding or insurance assistance

9. Financial Assistance. Providing assistance to otherwise qualified M/WBEs in need of obtaining necessary equipment, supplies, materials, loan capital, lines of credit, joint pay agreements to secure loans, supplies or letters of credit (including waiving credit that is ordinarily required), or related assistance or services. No credit for Good Faith Effort will be given to an Affiliate of a Bidder as it pertains to financial assistance. Did the Bidder provide significant and meaningful assistance to an M/WBE of the following nature in connection with the contract: (a) assistance in obtaining equipment, a loan, capital, lines of credit; (b) joint pay agreements or guaranties to secure loans, the purchase of supplies, or letters of credit, including waiving credit that is ordinarily required; or (c) assistance in obtaining the same unit pricing with the Bidder’s suppliers as the M/WBE? No Good Faith Effort credit will be given for assistance provided to an Affiliate of the Bidder as it pertains to financial assistance.

10. Joint Ventures. Negotiating joint venture and partnership arrangements with M/WBEs in order to increase opportunities for M/WBE participation on public construction and repair contracts.