RFP Doc1326388520 - City of Houston.pdf

SOLICITATION

BY

CITY OF HOUSTON, TX

FOR

WASTE CARTS, RECYCLING CARTS, CART PARTS, AND

RELATED PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

ON BEHALF OF ITSELF AND OTHER GOVERNMENT

AGENCIES AND MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH

GOVMVMT PURCHASING COOPERATIVE

Solicitation No. Doc1326388520

PART 1 - REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

SOLICITATION TITLE: Waste Carts, Recycling Carts, Cart Parts, and Related Products and Services SOLICITATION NO.: Doc1326388520

Date Issued: October 25, 2024

Pre-Proposal Conference: November 7, 2024 @ 9:00 AM (CT) Microsoft Teams Meeting Join on your computer or mobile app Click here to join the meeting Meeting ID: 229 488 853 764 Passcode: ug5hj4 Or call in (audio only) Conference Number: (936) 755-1521 Conference ID: 461 768 504# (Please mute your phone for the duration of the call)

Pre-Proposal Questions Deadline:

November 14, 2024@ 4:00 PM (CT)

Solicitation Due Date: December 12, 2024@ 4:00 PM(CT)

Solicitation Contact Person:

Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@houstontx.gov

(832) 393-8025

Project Summary: Waste Carts, Recycling Carts, Cart Parts, and Related Products and Services.

NIGP Code: 450-34

MWBE Goal: 0%

Important Notice About the City’s Early Payment Discount Program: The City’s standard payment term is to pay 30 days after the receipt of invoice or receipt of goods or services, whichever is later, according to the requirements of the Texas Prompt Payment Act (Tx. Gov’t Code, Ch. 2251).

However, the City may pay in less than 30 days, at its option, in return for an early payment discount from the vendor.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting mailto:Jessica.Vargas@houstontx.gov

PART 2 –GENERAL INFORMATION

1.0 SUMMARY AND SCOPE OF NATIONAL COOPERATIVE

The City of Houston, Texas (herein “Lead Public Agency”) on behalf of itself and all states, local governments, school districts and higher education institutions in the United States of America, and other government agencies and nonprofit organizations (herein ‘Participating Public Agencies’) intends to enter into a Master Agreement for a complete line of Waste Carts, Recycling Carts, Cart Parts, and Related Products and Services (herein “Products and Services”) with a qualified Proposer(s) (hereinafter, “Proposer” or “Supplier”) to assist the City with the aforementioned initiative.

1.1 Objectives

Provide a comprehensive competitively solicited and awarded Master Agreement offering Products and Services covered by this solicitation to Participating Public Agencies.

Establish the Master Agreement as the Supplier’s primary offering to Participating Public Agencies.

Achieve cost savings for Suppliers and Participating Public Agencies through a single competitive solicitation process that reduces the Supplier’s need to respond to multiple solicitations and Public Agencies’ need to conduct their own solicitation process.

Combine the aggregate purchasing volumes of Participating Public Agencies to achieve cost-effective pricing.

Reduce the administrative and overhead costs of Suppliers and Participating Public Agencies through state-of-the-art ordering and delivery systems.

1.2 General Definition of Products and Services

Proposers are to propose the broadest possible selection of waste carts, recycling carts, bins, cart parts, and related products and services offered to provide Participating Public Agencies with a comprehensive offering of products and services to meet their extensive and diverse needs. All products offered must be new, unused, latest design and technology unless otherwise specified.

A. Products

1. Waste Carts – A complete and comprehensive selection of durable residential waste carts in a wide range of sizes, colors, and options offered by Proposer.

2. Recycling Carts - A complete and comprehensive selection of durable residential recycling carts in a wide range of sizes, colors, and options offered by Proposer.

3. Recycling Bins - A complete and comprehensive selection of durable residential recycling bins in a wide range of sizes, colors, and options offered by Proposer.

4. Additional Products – A complete and comprehensive selection of additional products, including commercial waste carts, healthcare waste containers, reusable sharps containers, public littler containers, food handling products, and any related products in a wide range of sizes, colors, and options offered by Proposer.

Carts and bins are usually exposed to the outdoor elements, so they must be able to withstand all types of outdoor climates, including high heat, consistent rain, humidity, inclement weather, and cold climates.

B. Services:

1. Waste and Recycling Related Services – A complete offering that includes an asset management solution, bar code hardware/software integration, RFID hardware/software integration, cart distribution, container maintenance, repair services, and any other related services offered by Proposer.

2. All other additional related services offered by Proposer.

2.0 CITY OF HOUSTON BACKGROUND

The City of Houston is the fourth largest City in the United States and is composed of 23 departments with multiple physical locations throughout the geographical boundaries of the City. The City has approximately 23,000 employees with approximately 500 employees involved in the procurement and/or contracting process. Contracts where the City must pay in excess of $50,000 are routed to City Council for approval. The annual volume of contracts and purchase orders issued by the City in the last five years has ranged from 19,000 to 23,000.

3.0 TEXAS PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT

All information submitted to the City is subject to the provisions of the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA), located in Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code. Proposers may mark any information submitted, including their financial information, as confidential, trade secret, proprietary, or any other designation of choice. The City will notify any proposer should their information be requested under the TPIA and proposers will have an opportunity to assert their own arguments to the Texas Attorney General as to why their information should be excepted from public disclosure.

4.0 GOVMVMT PURCHASING COOPERATIVE

Innovative Government Services Association (IGSA) provides the GovMVMT Purchasing Cooperative (herein “GovMVMT”) assistance to help Participating Public Agencies with reducing the cost of purchased goods through strategic sourcing that combines volumes and the purchasing power of public agencies nationwide. This is accomplished through an award of competitively solicited contracts for high quality products and services by large and well recognized public agencies (herein “Lead Public Agencies”). The contracts provide for use by not only the respective Lead Public Agency, but also by other Participating Public Agencies.

4.1 Innovative Government Services Association

IGSA is designed to provide best-in-class competitively bid contracts to public and nonprofit agencies.

The founders have a long history of providing successful programs and services in these sectors and founded IGSA to continue the non-profit mission of providing value-added programs and services while giving back to the communities in which we live and work in.

GovMVMT is IGSA’s premier national cooperative purchasing program designed exclusively for public agencies and nonprofits.

4.2 Participating Public Agencies

The Supplier(s) must communicate directly with any Participating Public Agency concerning the placement of orders, issuance of the purchase order, contractual disputes, invoicing, payments, etc.

The Lead Public Agency is acting as a “Contracting Agency” for the Participating Public Agencies and shall not be held liable for any costs, damages, expenses, fees, liabilities, etc., incurred by any other Participating Public Agency. Participating Public Agency releases Lead Public Agency, ISGA/GovMVMT, and any other Participating Public Agencies, including their respective agents, directors, employees, or representatives from any acts, liabilities, damages, etc., incurred by Participating Public Agency.

Use of the Master Agreement by any Public Agency is preceded by their registration with GovMVMT as a Participating Public Agency in the GovMVMT Purchasing Cooperative program.

Registration is accomplished by Public Agencies entering into a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (MICPA). MICPA outlines the terms and conditions that allow access to the Lead Public Agencies’ Master Agreements. Under the terms of the MICPA, the procurement by the Participating Public Agency shall be construed in accordance with, and governed by, the laws of the state in which the Participating Public Agency resides. A copy of MICPA is attached as ‘Exhibit D’ of Section 8.0 GovMVMT Compliance Document.

By using the Master Agreement, any such Participating Public Agency agrees that it is registered with GovMVMT, whether pursuant to the terms of the MICPA or as otherwise agreed to. The terms and pricing established in the resulting Master Agreement between the Supplier(s) and the Lead Public Agency will be the same as that available to Participating Public Agencies through GovMVMT.

4.3 Estimated Volume

The estimated dollar volume of Products and Services purchased under the proposed Master Agreement is One Hundred Million Dollars ($100,000,000) annually at contract maturity. While no minimum volume is guaranteed to the Supplier, the estimated volume is based on the current annual volumes of the Lead Public Agency and other Participating Public Agencies that are anticipated to utilize the resulting Master Agreement to be made available to them through GovMVMT as well as through volume growth into other Public Agencies employing a coordinated marketing approach between Supplier and GovMVMT.

4.4 Marketing Support

GovMVMT provides marketing support for each Supplier’s products through the following:

• Sales and marketing personnel that directly promote the GovMVMT Suppliers to Participating Public

Agencies through public agency meetings, webinars, direct mail, email, online and print advertising, social media, articles, and exhibiting and presenting at national and local trade shows.

• GovMVMT provides Suppliers government sales training, and a host of online marketing and sales management tools to effectively increase sales through GovMVMT.

4.5 Multiple Awards

Multiple awards may be issued as a result of this solicitation. Multiple awards will ensure that any ensuing Master Agreements fulfill current and future requirements of the diverse and large number of Participating Public Agencies.

The Lead Public Agency reserves the right to award the contract locally and/or nationally in the aggregate, by section, multiple awards, primary, secondary, and tertiary, whichever is in the best interest of the Lead Public Agency and Participating Public Agencies because of this solicitation.

4.6 Evaluation of Proposals

Proposals will be evaluated by the Lead Public Agency in accordance with, and subject to, the relevant statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations that govern its procurement practices.

Other Participating Public Agencies will assist the Lead Public Agency in evaluating proposals. The Supplier(s) whose proposal(s) affirmatively meets the requirements of this RFP and provides the best overall value will be eligible for a contract award. GovMVMT reserves the right to make available or not make available Master Agreements awarded by a Lead Public Agency to Participating Public Agencies.

5.0 SOLICITATION SCHEDULE

Listed below are the important dates for this RFP.

EVENT DATE

RFP Issuance October 25, 2024 Pre-Proposal Conference November 7, 2024 Deadline for Questions November 14, 2024 Solicitation Due Date December 12, 2024 Notification of Intent to Award (estimated) January 2025 Council Agenda Date (estimated) February 2025 Contract Start Date (estimated) March 2025

PART 3 – SCOPE OF WORK

1.0 PURPOSE

The Lead Public Agency and Participating Public Agencies seek proposals from qualified firms to provide waste carts, recycling carts, cart parts, smart waste systems, and related products and services.

The selected Proposer(s) shall be responsible for manufacturing and delivering the proposed waste carts, recycling carts, cart parts, bins, smart waste systems, and related products and services. In addition, the Proposer shall provide an asset management system that will enable the Lead Public Agency to track and manage waste carts, recycling carts, and bins. All products and services provided under the resultant contract are to be part of a robust turn-key waste and recycling cart solution, allowing the Lead Public Agency and Participating Public Agencies to address their respective waste and recycling needs utilizing a single competitively awarded contract. Proposers shall submit pricing for required components as listed in the Scope of Work and, in addition, provide pricing for a comprehensive manufacturer product and service list whereby all available options can be added or deleted.

The Lead Public Agency anticipates awarding a contract for an initial five (5) year period, with five (5) one-year options to renew annually at the Lead Public Agency’s sole discretion.

2.0 BACKGROUND

The Lead Public Agency will establish a Master Agreement as a supplier’s primary offering as a Lead Public Agency, allowing Participating Public Agencies to access this Master Agreement. The City seeks to achieve cost savings for the Lead Public Agency, Suppliers, and Participating Public Agencies through a single competitive solicitation process that eliminates the need for multiple bids or proposals.

This will combine the volume of the Lead Public Agency and Participating Public Agencies, estimated to be 100 million dollars annually, to achieve cost-effective pricing and reduce the administrative and overhead costs of Suppliers and Participating Public Agencies through state-of-the-art ordering and delivery systems. Additionally, the Lead Public Agency seeks to provide itself and Participating Public Agencies with environmentally responsible products and services.

3.0 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL STANDARDS

All items to be purchased under this contract shall be in accordance with all Federal, State, and local governmental standards, including, but not limited to, those issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute of Occupational Safety Hazards (NIOSH), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

3.1 CART SPECIFICATIONS

All carts shall meet, at a minimum, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) cart standards Z- 245.30-1996 and Z245.60-1996 or the latest ANSI update. All applicable rules, regulations, laws, and standards pertaining to this product must be followed.

The following specifications supersede the standards listed above, where applicable:

1. The cart shall be manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The HDPE must have a density of 0.947 to 0.968 grams cm3. The Melt Index (MI) of the HDPE must be, at minimum, 4.0.

2. The cart shall have an ultraviolet (UV) inhibitor to prevent deterioration and shattering. The UV inhibitor shall be added at a minimum of 2% by weight, or technologically advanced equivalent, thus ensuring maximum protection from the elements. The Proposer must provide documentation to demonstrate how this requirement is met.

3. The cart shall be manufactured with a smooth, non-textured surface inside and no sharp edges on the outside.

4. The cart shall be manufactured without inside recesses, projections, or other obstructions where refuse could be trapped.

5. The cart shall be manufactured with a narrow-width design to fit through a 30-inch door opening.

6. The cart shall be manufactured with a foot-operated tilt feature designed in the axle area to facilitate easy tipping.

7. The cart shall be manufactured with a slight taper so that the top of the body is slightly larger than the bottom for nesting during shipment.

8. The cart shall be aerodynamically designed to remain stable in winds of approximately 25-30 miles per hour.

9. The cart shall be designed (whether empty or full) to remain upright when the lid is thrown open.

10. The cart shall be manufactured with a ¼” minimum molded-in bottom wear strips for longer life.

11. The manufacturer shall permanently mold the cart lifting section into the cart.

12. The manufacturer prefers that the grab bar be permanently molded into the cart, but a metal grab bar will be considered.

13. Except for the metal axle and possibly the metal grab bar, the cart shall not have any other metal attachments, framing, or nuts and bolts.

A. Cart Compatibility with Truck Loading System(s)

Carts must be compatible with standard truck-mounted cart grabbing system(s) where the vehicle’s arm empties the cart contents into the vehicle’s waste receptacle. The cart shall be designed to be picked up and dumped by a semi-automated or fully automated lifting device that picks up the leading side of the cart and inverts it while preventing it from falling into the truck hopper. The cart shall function regularly and efficiently with a mechanized collection system. Carts must meet the truck grabber system requirements as specified below and shall be tested and evaluated as follows.

Prior to award, the Proposer(s) may be asked to deliver samples of each cart size and type for testing at no cost to the Lead Public Agency. The Lead Public Agency will not be responsible for returning samples. Cart samples shall be delivered to the location identified within the notification sent by the Lead Public Agency within seven (7) calendar days.

The sample carts testing program shall be conducted as follows:

Proposers, at a minimum, shall be required to provide three (3) sample carts including one (1) 35-gallon cart, one (1) 64/65-gallon cart, and one (1) 95/96-gallon cart from each manufacturer product proposed.

Each sample cart shall be labeled with the Proposer’s name, RFP number, and solicitation title. Sample carts shall be evaluated by filling to capacity, picked up by the truck grabber system, and dumped into the truck hopper. This process will be repeated twenty-five (25) times per sample cart. If the Lead Public Agency’s testing program determines that the cart is incompatible with the truck grabber system or fails the test, the Proposer may not be considered for award. The meeting time, date, and location of the sample cart tests will be published to all Proposers who will be evaluated if the Proposer desires to observe the test. See Part 4, Section 2.0, Interviews/Oral Presentations/Demonstrations.

The Lead Public Agency reserves the right to conduct the testing as outlined above, modify such testing, or waive such right at its sole discretion based on the needs outlined.

B. Cart Lid and Handle

The proposed cart lid shall be one piece and manufactured from the same material and color as the cart body unless otherwise specified by the Lead Public Agency. It shall be of such a configuration that it will not fade, warp, bend, slump, or distort to such an extent that it no longer fits the cart properly or becomes otherwise unserviceable.

An ultraviolet inhibitor is required. The inhibitor shall guarantee effectiveness against sun deterioration or the lid becoming brittle due to exposure.

The cart section will be furnished with a hinged lid, with the hinge to the rear of the wheeled section.

Two-wheeled cart lids that are hinged shall be marked with a statement such as “CLOSE LID BEFORE MOVING” at the Ordering Agency’s (Lead Public Agency and/or Participating Public Agencies) discretion. Lids shall be curved or built up to drain and shall be light and stiff for convenient handling.

Lids shall sit flush or overlap the sides but may flare out so they will not bind against the sides if the lifting device distorts the container. The lid must have a molded memory that returns to its original shape if distorted by the lifting device so that it closes completely.

Lids shall be securely attached to the cart without using nuts and bolts and hinged to open using gravity as the cart is dumped. The lid shall open to 270 degrees from the closed position and hang open without stressing the lid, cart body, or tipping over the cart.

The proposed cart lid should prevent the intrusion of rainwater, rodents, birds, and flies and avoid the emission of odors. It should enable the free and complete flow of material from the cart during the dump cycle without interfering with the material already deposited in the truck body or the truck body and its lifting mechanism. The lid shall not blow open during inclement weather conditions. Cart users should be able to conveniently and easily open and close the lid throughout the serviceable life of the cart. The cart lid and body must be designed and weighed to prevent an empty cart from tilting backward when lifting the lid open. Lids should be designed to be easily removed in the event of damage or failure; the hinge assembly shall not be capable of being readily removed by the public, by hand, or with ordinary tools. Lids will not have a locking device. Handle attachments must be of durable construction and may be integrally molded or metal.

C. Cart Wheels

Each cart shall be furnished with two (2) plastic molded, minimum 1 ¾” cross-section snap-on wheels, and each wheel shall be equipped with an inner lock pin made from a corrosion-resistant material.

Wheels shall be molded from first-quality 100% virgin high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin that may include recycled HDPE material. A quiet tread is required.

Wheels must be secured to the axle by a means that resists hard set downs, pushing, pulling, and testing. Wheel bearings, if provided, shall be maintenance-free and self-lubricated.

a) Cart wheels for the 95/96 gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 10 inches; however, 12-inch wheels are preferred.

b) Cart wheels for the 64/65 gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 10 inches.

c) Cart wheels for the 35-gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 8 inches.

Each Ordering Agency, at its sole discretion, may request that each cart be furnished with two (2) rubber wheels. The wheels shall consist of a minimum of 1 ¾inches cross-section, solid rubber tires pressed onto hubs. Wheels must be secured to the axle by a means that resists hard set-downs, pushing, pulling, and testing. Wheel bearings, if provided, shall be maintenance-free and self-lubricated.

a) Cart wheels for the 95/96 gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 10 inches; however, 12-inch wheels are preferred.

b) Cart wheels for the 64/65 gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 10 inches.

c) Cart wheels for the 35-gallon carts must have a minimum diameter of 8 inches.

D. Cart Axle

Each cart shall be furnished with a 5/8-inch minimum solid steel axle with a corrosion-resistant coating that is securely attached to the body by molded axle retainers. The axle must slide into the cart bottom and not be exposed to the contents inside the container. Metal attachments are not acceptable.

E. Cart Markings

Manufacturer Information: Carts shall be permanently identified with 1) manufacturer’s name or trademark, 2) model, 3) year and month of manufacture, 4) manufacturer’s maximum load weight rating, and 5) volumetric capacity.

Standards: Carts shall be clearly marked that they are designed and manufactured in accordance with ANSI Standards. If the cart conforms to the requirements of one or more of the standard container types specified in ANSI Z245.60-1996 or the latest update, the marking shall include: “CONFORMS WITH ANSI Z245.60-1996 (or the latest update), TYPE B (Barlock) and G (automated). ANY REPAIR, RECONSTRUCTION, OR MODIFICATION MUST ALSO CONFORM TO THIS STANDARD.”

Logo: An Agency logo will be inscribed or hot-stamped in white on both sides of the cart's body. Decals, stickers, or surface paint are not acceptable. To maintain consistency with existing cart markings, the Lead Public Agency requires the exact, or minimally altered, logo appearance as is currently utilized.

Size variations shall not exceed ½ inches in any direction. The Ordering Agency has the discretion to approve the final art. The logo shall be in the shape of a rectangle, and sizes shall be per cart size as follows:

a) 95/96 Gallon Cart - 7” H x 11 ¼ W

b) 64/65 Gallon Cart - 6” H x 9” W

c) 35 Gallon Cart - 3” H x 6” W

The Lead Agency and/or any Participating Agency reserves the right to change the shape and size of the logo if deemed necessary.

Required Cart Identification: A serial number must be placed in at least one (1) location using materials and an application method that is highly durable and appropriate to the weather and waste environment.

The serial number must be in a position that will permit unobstructed visibility while the containers are nested or stacked (as received upon delivery), with a preferred location above the entity logos on either side. The Proposer will include the ongoing ability to view the serial number under normal wear and tear conditions in an exposed environment in the cart warranty. The Proposer may offer relevant options for upgraded, alternate methods, and/or replacing lost/damaged serial numbers. Acceptance of alternatives shall be at the discretion of the Lead Agency or any Participating Agency. The starting number shall be determined by the Ordering Agency and updated upon request.

Instructions for Use of Cart: All cart lids shall be clearly embossed with raised letters and inscribed or hot-stamped onto the outside of the lid near the front. Verbiage shall be in up to three languages, including English, Spanish, and Creole, and will be finalized by the Agency prior to an order being placed. The Agency shall reserve the right to change the verbiage or request the verbiage in another language other than those listed below if it is provided by the Agency to the vendor prior to cart production.

a) The language for waste carts should be customizable and shall include at least the following:

i. Property of (Agency)

ii. For Customer Service Call ____

iii. Keep Lid Closed

iv. This Side Toward Street

v. No Construction Material

vi. No Flammable Material

b) The language for recycling carts should be customizable and shall include at least the following:

i. Property of (Agency)

ii. For Customer Service Call ____

iii. Keep the Lid Closed

iv. This Side Toward Street

v. Recyclable Materials Only

3.2 BAR CODE/SERIAL NUMBER LABEL FOR RETROFIT

The selected Proposer(s) shall provide bar code/serial number labels that may permanently adhere to existing carts. Labels shall be made of durable plastic, use permanent adhesive, and ensure a life expectancy of at least five (5) years. The label adhesive shall be durable, anti-fading, wrinkle-resistant, and resistant to extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, high humidity, and high-volume water pressure. The bar code/ serial number label shall be capable of attaching to various manufacturer carts.

At a minimum, the labels should adhere to Schaefer, Cascade, Otto, Rehrig, and Toter Carts and bins.

3.3 RFID LABEL FOR RETROFIT OF EXISTING CARTS

The selected Proposer(s) shall provide RFID/serial number labels that may permanently adhere to existing carts for various manufacturers. Labels shall be made of durable plastic, use permanent adhesive, and ensure a life expectancy of at least five (5) years. The label adhesive shall be durable, anti-fading, wrinkle-resistant, and resistant to extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, high humidity, and high-volume water pressure. The RFID/serial number label shall be capable of attaching to various manufacturer carts. At a minimum, the labels should adhere to Schaefer, Cascade, Otto, Rehrig, and Toter Carts and bins.

3.4 COLOR IN-MOLD LABELS (OPTIONAL)

At the discretion of the Ordering Agency, the selected Proposer’s cart/recycling bin(s) may be requested to have color in-mold labels as an alternative/additional feature to the agency logo or other identifying information, such as the barcode/ RFID labels. This optional feature, to be priced separately, will provide the ability to have mold color labels using injection mold to fuse the label to the container as it is being molded.

3.5 RFID HARDWARE FOR NEW CARTS

The selected Proposer(s) shall be able to provide embedded RFID tag technologies to track and distribute carts purchased by each Ordering Agency. This feature may be selected by the Ordering Agency and shall be tied to compatible RFID readers integrated into the operating software system that allows tracking, distribution, and assignment. The selected Proposer(s) must be capable of producing and shipping carts and associated containers with an embedded UHF RFID tag that has been pre-configured and programmed at the manufacturer’s production facility. The selected Proposer(s) shall configure and provide to each Ordering Agency to utilize this feature. Additionally, compatible hand-held RFID tag reader(s) are to be provided to each Ordering Agency based on the number of carts purchased that will provide the necessary functionality throughout the term of the resultant contract and any option exercised by the Lead Public Agency.

At a minimum, the proposed RFID Hardware, RFID tag reader device(s), and associated software functionality shall be as follows:

1. RFID tag must be installed within the cart container body without exposure to the outside elements. RFID tags affixed to the container lid or placed inside of the container are unacceptable. The serial number/bar code shall contain ten (10) total alphanumeric digits, including a three (3) digit prefix that indicates the container size, city/brand plate identification, and type, followed by a unique seven (7) digit serial number. The serial number bar code must be the same number used to identify the container for warranty purposes. Adhesive or sticker RFID tags and/or bar codes will not be acceptable on new production containers.

2. The selected Proposer(s) is responsible for the cart container manufacturer providing and maintaining a web-based software system that allows for the electronic database, established for each Ordering Agency, to be viewed and edited. The software system (System), at a minimum, shall provide information as to each Ordering Agency’s specific RFID data and associated information for all products and services purchased against the resultant contract.

The System must be capable of including each cart container’s RFID tag, container size, container type, and assignment address. The system should be capable of exporting Ordering Agency data in a flat-file upon request. Additionally, the system should be capable of reporting and allowing data to be extracted into Microsoft Excel or similar applications.

3. The RFID tag inlay must be a passive Gen 2 UHF tag with an optimal operating frequency of 860-960 MHz and an operating temperature of -40°F to +149°F. The dry inlay must meet ISO/IEC 18000-6C and the EPC global C1G2 protocol.

4. The RFID tag used in manufacturing has been tested and certified with an IP67 rating. The testing certification requirements consist of (1) a 1mm Probe per EN 60529, (2) Dust circulation per EN 60529, and (3) Temporary Immersion per EN 60529.

5. The RFID tag must be encoded and verified at the manufacturing facility to ensure it works properly before shipment.

3.6 RFID Tag Reader Device - Minimum Requirements

The selected Proposer(s) must supply and maintain hand-held RFID tag readers that are compatible with the RFID tags installed in the carts as specified above. The Lead Public Agency prefers that this reader also read existing Bar Codes. The proposed readers should be reasonably lightweight, user-friendly, possess extended battery life, ruggedized, and capable of operating via a choice of connection options (cellular service or Wi-Fi). The readers must be capable of a wired download as a backup solution should there be a network problem and retain all data until the network is available. As part of the proposal submission package, Proposers are to provide full details of their approach and methodology for completing these services.

The selected Proposer(s) shall supply all required accessories to operate the reader devices in the field.

This shall include but not be limited to a wall charger, car charger, case, or holster as appropriate to the design must be included. An all-inclusive annual lease price and a one-time purchase price for each hand-held scanner are required. Proposers are to provide the various pricing options as requested within Attachment E - Pricing Proposal.

The reader device must include, at minimum, a one (1) year warranty if purchased. In addition, options for extended warranties, including pricing, should be made available by the Proposer. Defective units will be returned to the proposer for replacement within 30 days. The Proposer shall replace the returned item within ten (10) business days of the receipt of the returned item. The Proposer must include appropriate training materials and live training courses (hard copy, electronic copy, web-based, PowerPoint. etc., as proper) for users at no additional cost.

3.7 Cart Spare

The awarded Proposer(s) shall make new and/or post-consumer recycled parts compatible with the carts purchased by the Ordering Agency under this contract available for purchase. All parts supplied will meet ANSI Standards and the manufacturer’s specifications and standards for parts currently distributed on new 35, 64/65, and 95/96-gallon waste carts and recycling carts specified in Section 3.1 Cart Specifications. Original spare parts shall be available throughout each cart's ten (10) year warranty period.

3.8 Recycling Bin Specifications

All recycling bins shall meet, at a minimum, ANSI cart standards Z-245.30-1996 and Z-245.60-1996 or the latest ANSI update or equivalent. All applicable rules, regulations, laws, and standards pertaining to this product must be followed.

The following specifications supersede the standards listed above where applicable:

1. The bin shall be made from high-density polyethylene containing a minimum of twenty (20%) post-consumer recycled plastic.

2. The bin material shall contain ultraviolet stabilizers and resist fading or breakage from sunlight exposure. An ultraviolet inhibitor shall be added at a minimum of 2% by weight, or technological equivalent, thus ensuring maximum protection from the elements. Warranties shall guarantee the ultraviolet effectiveness, and sun exposure causing deterioration or shattering of the carts/bins or lids will be caused for replacement by the awarded Proposer on the grounds of improper use of inhibitor. The proposer must provide documentation to demonstrate how this requirement is met.

3. The bin shall be new, unused, and clean.

4. The bin shall have the capacity of approximately eighteen (18) gallons, weigh a minimum of five

(5) lbs. empty, and shall be capable of supporting seventy (70) pounds.

5. The bins shall be rectangular with solid sides instead of open grid sides.

6. The bin material shall have no sharp edges.

7. The bin drainage design must allow the retention of small amounts of liquid spillage while allowing for drainage of precipitation.

8. The bin shall have a nesting ratio greater than or equal to 3.5 to 1 to allow for economical container storage.

9. The bins shall be clearly marked that they are designed and manufactured in accordance with ANSI standards or equivalent. If the bin conforms to the requirements of one or more of the standard bin types specified in ANSI Z245.60-1996 (or attest upgrade) or equivalent, the marking shall include “CONFORMS WITH ANSIZ245.60-1996” (or the latest update).

10. The agency logo and additional program information shall be inscribed or stamped in white color on the front of the bin. Decal stickers or surface paint are not acceptable. The logo shall be a 4 ½” H x 9” W rectangle.

11. Recycled Content Symbol: To comply with Florida State Law relating to identifying recyclable plastic materials, the recycling symbol and a number indicating the type of plastic used shall be embossed on the carts. The marking shall be at least 3” x 3” or compliant with current regulations and shall meet Society of Plastic Industry (SPI) voluntary coding system.

3.9 Color Choice(s) for Carts/Recycling Bins

The proposer must submit color catalogs of all possible color options including standard and special orders. Up to eight (8) sample swatches of colors may be requested at no cost to each agency. Each agency reserves the right to change the color of the cart and/or lid at a later date and reserves the right to order multiple colors as necessary. The color shall be ultraviolet light stabilized to reduce fading during normal use. The color shall be non-fading throughout the warranty period. Proposers should include the standard colors available at no cost for the recycling bins and carts as part of their proposal response.

3.10 Smart Waste System

The requirements for a smart waste system will include the collection units, software solution, hardware, system monitoring, software, hardware and equipment maintenance, warranty, training, and customer service plan.

Proposer may also offer a solution that offers different capacities or configurations.

1. Summary of System Specifications:

• Unlimited software licenses for both desktop and mobile devices;

• Custom configuration of sensor-equipped, compacting and/or non-compacting, multi-stream waste/recycling/compost stations;

• On-site hardware installation, system setup, training, and onboarding;

• Annual multi-point station inspection and comprehensive cleaning;

• Automated system monitoring via automated system diagnostics and alerts;

• Hardware parts warranty for full-service term (including battery);

• Customer support via hotline and trained Field Service Professionals; and

• Ability to support enhanced, additional functionality and technology over time.

2. Software and Hardware Specifications:

The proposed system will be web-based system with dashboard capabilities that provide real-time status on every device in the network of collection stations.

The software will:

• Generate historical reports and analytical tools including collection frequency charting, “heat mapping” and daily reporting mechanisms;

• Have the ability to measure collection activity versus known historical data;

• Deliver actionable data, providing real-time and historical data that will determine if trash needs to be emptied;

• The ability to remotely adjust setting;

• Provide GPS location services;

• Have the capability for asset management, track and manage inventory;

• Provide remote diagnostic alerts;

• Have email notification capabilities;

• Hardware and software must have the capacity to be updated or upgraded;

• Have the capability to create and specify groups, routes or geographies within a system so areas can be compared to one another;

• Have the ability to set up users and limit their access to specific stations and/or capabilities; and

• Have a mobile app available for android and iOS.

3. Hardware Specifications should include:

• Each collection unit must be modular with one bine for the collection of trash, and the other bin for the collection of recyclable materials;

• Each unit must be able to communicate bi-directionally with remote diagnostic and reprogramming capabilities;

• Communications to the units will be managed over mobile and cellular data networks;

• Each station must have an external fullness indicator;

• Each trash collection unit should also include an option for foot pedal designed for hygienic concerns, for those users reluctant to touch the handles which open the lids of trash units, at customer request; and

• It is required that each large capacity collection unit approximately holds up to the following quantities:

o 50 gallons of non-compacted waste o 150 gallons of compacted waste o Up to 50 gallons of non-compacted recyclable material o 150 gallons of compacted recyclable material.

Proposer may also include a solution offering different bin capacities, or configurations. These additional configurations may be made part of your offer and submitted separately. In addition to the rental price the Proposer provides based on the core requirements, the Proposer may also provide a rental and purchase price for items listed and included in your pricing submittal.

3.11 Delivery of Carts/ Recycling Bins

The awarded proposer shall make deliveries of waste carts, recycling carts, cart parts, and bins to the Agency within 45 calendar days after the purchase order date. In cases where the delivery and availability will be delayed, the awarded Proposer shall notify the Agency within 48 hours of the purchase order date. If the Agency approves, a revised delivery schedule may be established.

The awarded Proposer(s) shall furnish the following per order at the time of order delivery, at no cost to the Agency:

• Ten (10) instruction manuals for each cart/recycling bin size or type;

• One (1) digital instruction manual for each cart/recycling bin size or type;

• Ten (10) copies of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the materials used in the manufacturing of each cart/recycling bin size or type; and

• One (1) digital copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the materials used for the manufacturing of each cart/recycling bin.

3.12 Packing Slip/Delivery Ticket to Accompany Items During Delivery

The awarded Proposer(s) shall enclose a complete packing slip or delivery ticket with any items to be delivered in conjunction with this contract. The packing slip shall be included with the product and shall be made available to the Agency authorized representative during delivery. The packing slip or delivery ticket shall include, at a minimum, the following information:

a) purchase order number;

b) date of order;

c) complete listing of items being delivered;

d) range of serial numbers of carts being delivered, and

e) back-ordered quantities and estimated delivery of back-orders, if applicable.

3.13 Cart/Recycling Bin Warranty Requirements

THE PROPOSER’S WARRANTY IS UNDERSTOOD TO INCLUDE AND COVER ALL ISSUES

REFERENCED IN SECTION 3.13, WHETHER STATED IN THE PROPOSER’S WARRANTY OR NOT.

A. Cart Warranty

The awarded Proposer(s) shall fully guarantee the performance of the carts and warrant carts against defects in materials and workmanship for a minimum of ten (10) years on all carts after the product's acceptance date. Warrantable carts delivered by the awarded Proposer(s) that fail within the warranty period shall be replaced and warranted for the remainder of the warranty period. For purposes of this section, a cart shall be defined as a complete unit, including a full lid assembly, all hot stamping, all in-mold labels, all embossing, wheel assembly, hardware, serial numbers/bar codes, and all other components (as applicable). During the warranty period, the awarded Proposer(s) shall replace defective carts/parts at no additional cost to the Agency, including transportation and handling. The warranty term will survive the contract term.

B. Recycling Bin Warranty

A ten (10) year warranty term is preferred; however, the awarded Proposer(s) shall fully guarantee the performance of the recycling bins and warrant bins against defects in materials and workmanship for a minimum of five (5) years on all bins after the product's acceptance date. Warrantable bins delivered by the awarded Proposer(s) that fail within the warranty period shall be replaced and warranted for the remainder of the warranty period. For purposes of this section, a bin shall be defined as a complete unit, including all hot stamping, all in-mold labels, all embossing, hardware, serial numbers/bar codes, and all other components (as applicable). During the warranty period, the awarded Proposer(s) shall replace defective bins/parts at no additional cost to the Agency, including transportation and handling.

The warranty term will survive the contract term.

C. Examples of defects in materials and workmanship shall include, but are not limited to:

a) Failure of the lid to prevent rainwater from entering the cart when in the closed position.

b) Damage to the cart body, lid, or any component parts through opening or closing the lid.

c) Failure of the lower lift bar from damage during interface with standard ANSI approved lifting devices.

d) Failure of the body and lid to maintain their original shape.

e) Damage or cracking of the cart body through normal operating conditions

f) Failure of the wheels to provide continuous easy mobility as originally designed.

g) Failure of any part to conform to standards as specified herein.

h) Failure of ultraviolet effectiveness resultant of sun exposure causing deterioration or shattering of the carts or lids will be cause for replacement by the awarded Proposer on the grounds of improper use of an inhibitor.

i) Failure of barcode/RFID tag to be read by the appropriate device.

D. Replacement

Any cart/recycling bin or component parts that do not conform to the technical requirements, as deemed by the Agency, or that fails by reason of inadequate or improper materials, defective workmanship, insufficient resistance to weathering, or for any other cause whatsoever other than negligence or abuse shall be replaced within forty-five (45) calendar days from notice to the awarded Proposer(s), at no cost to the Agency.

E. Cart Replacement Parts

The awarded Proposer(s) shall provide the Agency with all cart components for use as replacement parts of defective and unserviceable carts still under warranty at no cost to the Agency. Replacement parts shall be the same or superior in quality and performance as the original equipment manufactured parts. If the awarded Proposer(s) cannot provide the Agency with any replacement part for a period longer than forty-five (45) calendar days, the Proposer(s) shall be liable for providing new replacement carts. For each unavailable cart part requested by the Agency, the Proposer’s maximum liability shall not exceed the cost of a new, replacement cart delivered to the Agency. The specialized toolsets required for cart repairs shall be replaced at no cost to the Agency, as requested by the Agency. The Agency shall not seek warranty replacement to exceed twenty-five (25) sets of specialized tools per contract period.

F. Responsibility for Damage or Loss

The awarded Proposer(s) shall not be responsible for damage or loss of carts/bins due to vandalism, abuse, neglect, theft, or acts of nature after delivery and acceptance by the Agency. If the cart/recycling bin conforms to the solicitation requirements, the awarded Proposer(s) shall not be responsible for damage or loss due to fire.

G. Claim Procedures

The Agency may remove a cart/recycling bin from residential service for repair or replacement at any time, regardless of the cause of defective performance. For carts/recycling bins that are subject to a warranty claim (Warrantable Carts/Recycling Bins) but repairable, the Agency may elect to install replacement parts such as wheels, grab bars, and lids. However, this action will not waive the warranty requirement for the carts/recycling bins. All carts that are identified as not repairable, as determined by the Agency, and are Warrantable Carts/Recycling Bins, shall be replaced as discussed in section 3.13.

If a Warrantable cart/recycling bin or component part is identified by the Agency as requiring complete replacement, then the Agency shall retain the Warrantable cart/recycling bin or component part and promptly notify the awarded Proposer(s) in writing of its warranty claim. Within forty-five (45) calendar days of this notification, the awarded Proposer(s) shall honor the warranty claim by delivering a replacement cart to the Agency. If the awarded Proposer(s) contests the warranty claim, notice must be submitted in writing to the Agency’s contract manager within fourteen (14) calendar days. In the case of a contested claim, resolution must be reached 60 days after the initial claim was filed.

The awarded Proposer(s) may visually inspect the Warrantable Cart/recycling bin or component part during the forty-five (45) calendar day post-notification period. The awarded Proposer(s) may, upon inspecting damaged carts/bins/parts, challenge its obligation to replace subject carts/bins/parts because the failure resulted from negligent handling and/or abusive use. The burden of proof when contesting warranty claims shall be placed solely on the awarded Proposer(s). Such proof shall be in writing with specific details as to the exact cause of the defect. The Agency will consider the details of the awarded Proposer’s contested item.

In the event of a contested warranty claim, the Agency and the awarded Proposer shall use their best efforts to mutually resolve the disagreement. In the event that the Agency and the awarded Proposer cannot resolve their disagreement within forty-five (45) calendar days subsequent to the awarded Proposer’s notice, the Ordering Agency’s determination shall be final.

3.14 Product Returns

An agency may elect to return to the awarded Proposer(s) any unused item within sixty (60) business days of receipt and acceptance of that item by the Ordering Agency if the agency determines the item to be defective. Items will be returned with all original documentation. The awarded Proposer(s) must supply a pre-authorized return receipt for returned items upon request. All return costs for defective items returned pursuant to this section will be borne by the awarded Proposer(s).

3.15Cart/Recycling Bin Buy Back Program

The awarded Proposer shall provide its best monetary offer to buy back each non-warrantable cart/recycling bin size to include transportation and processing from a location determined by the Agency.

3.16 Required Asset Management Solution to Include Software and Hardware

Waste and recycling carts shall be provided with automated software capable of inventory management, including final disposition, work order processing, and…