RFQ-2026-04-Annual-Architectural-Services.pdf

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TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE

Request for Qualifications (RFQ)

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR NEW

CONSTRUCTION, RENOVATION & REMODELING PROJECTS

RFQ 2026-04

Solicitations Due – October 14, 2026 - 1:45 p.m. EST

Solicitation Opening – October 14, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. EST www.tsc.fl.edu/purchasing

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Table of Contents

GENERAL CONDITIONS

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION/CALENDAR 15

PROPOSAL SPECIFICATIONS

EVALUATION PROCESS/CRITERIA

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING PROPOSALS

REQUIRED FORMS

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GENERAL CONDITIONS

PROPOSERS: To ensure acceptance of the proposal, follow these instructions.

SEALED PROPOSALS: The number of the proposal and the date of opening shall be shown on the envelope/box containing each proposal. Proposers are requested to show their name and address on the envelope/box. All proposals are subject to the terms and conditions specified herein and in the attached proposal documents.

The completed proposal MUST be submitted in a sealed envelope/box. Telegraphic (fax, e-mail, telephone, telegraph) proposals will not be accepted.

1. EXECUTION OF PROPOSAL: Proposals must contain the signature of an authorized representative. Failure to properly sign the proposal may invalidate same, and it may not be considered for award. All proposals must be completed typewritten. The original conditions and specifications cannot be changed or altered in any way. Altered proposals will not be considered.

Clarification of proposals submitted shall be in letterform, signed by proposers and attached to the proposal.

2. NUMBER OF COPIES: Proposers must submit four (4) complete electronic bids on individual USB flash drives in PDF format. Each section of the proposal must be its own folder within the USB.

Each proposal must have signatures and all supporting documentation on the USB. The (4) USB’s are to be in a sealed envelope/box marked as stated in the Proposal Submission clause. This quantity is required so that a full and complete copy of your proposal can be provided to each member of the evaluation committee.

3. PROPOSAL PREPARATION COSTS: The College shall not be liable for any expenses incurred in connection with the preparation of a response to this solicitation.

4. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION: The College will receive proposals at the Purchasing Office. The outside of the sealed envelope/box must be identified as follows:

• Proposer’s name

• Return address

• Solicitation number and title

• Due date and time

5. DUE DATE AND TIME: The date and time will be carefully observed. Proposals received after the specified date and time shall be returned unopened. The College will not be responsible for late deliveries or delayed mail.

Receipt of the proposal in the Purchasing Office after the date and time specified due to failure by the proposer to provide the above information on the outside of the envelope/box shall result in the rejection of the proposer’s proposal.

The proposer may submit the proposal in person or by mail/courier service. The College cautions proposers to assure actual delivery of mailed or hand delivered proposals prior to the deadline set for receiving proposals. Confirmation of receipt of proposal can be made by calling the College’s Purchasing Office.

6. SUPPLIER REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS: Prior to the award of this solicitation, supplier(s) must be registered in TSC’s Workday Supplier database. If you previously submitted these forms and

Page | 4 received your TSC Workday Supplier ID number, you will not need to re-submit, just reference this number on the Proposal Response Form. Example of a Workday Supplier ID is SU 000000123.

If you are not a registered TSC supplier, prior to award of this solicitation you will need to complete our online TSC Vendor Application Form at: Supplier Information - Tallahassee State College These forms are submitted electronically which protects your information. Once your forms have been submitted and information has been processed by the Purchasing Office staff, you will receive an e-mail containing your TSC Supplier ID Number.

If you are unsure about your registration status in TSC’s database, please E-mail Dustin Frost Dustin.Frost@TSC.fl.edu.

7. DELAYS: The College, at its sole discretion, may delay the scheduled due dates indicated above if it is to the advantage of the College to do so. The College will notify Proposers of all changes in scheduled due dates by written addendum.

8. REVISIONS AND AMENDMENTS: The right is reserved, as the interest of the College may require, to revise or amend the specifications or drawings or both prior to the date set for opening of RFQ, such revisions and amendments, if any, will be announced by an addendum to the RFQ. If the revisions and amendments are of a nature which requires material changes in quantities or prices, the date set for the opening of the RFQ may be postponed by such number of days as in the opinion of the Purchasing Director that will enable Proposers to revise their RFQ. In such cases, the addendum will include an announcement of the new RFQ opening date. The proposers shall acknowledge receipt of all addenda by signing, dating, and returning the acknowledgment page of the addendum with their proposal.

9. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The award hereunder is subject to the provisions of Chapter 112, Florida Statutes. All proposers must disclose with their proposal the name of any officer, director, or agent who is also an employee of the College. Further, all proposers must disclose the name of any Board employee who owns, directly or indirectly, an interest of five percent (5%) or more in the proposer’s firm or any of its branches.

10. DISQUALIFICATION: Any or all proposals will be rejected if there is reason to believe that collusion exists between proposers. Proposals in which the prices obviously are unbalanced will be subject to rejection.

11. PROPOSAL WITHDRAWAL: Proposers may withdraw their proposals by notifying the College’s Purchasing Office in writing or email at any time prior to the time set for the proposal deadline.

Proposers may withdraw their proposals in person or through an authorized representative.

Proposers and authorized representatives must disclose their identity (company business card and driver’s license) and sign the Proposal Withdrawal Form. Once opened, proposals become the property of the College and will not be returned to the proposers.

12. POSTING OF RESULTS: Intent to Award will be posted for review by interested parties on the TSC Purchasing website Solicitation - TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE (fl.edu) and the State of Florida’s Procurement system MyFloridaMarket Place on or about the date provided on the enclosed RFQ schedule and will remain posted for a period of 72 hours.

Interested parties are responsible for monitoring these sites for new or changing information relative to this procurement.

PROTEST OF SOLICITATIONS SPECIFICATIONS PROCEDURE: TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE

Procedure for Contract Solicitation or Award Bid Protest procedures may be obtained from the https://www.tsc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/supplier-information/ https://www.tsc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/supplier-information/ mailto:Dustin.Frost@tcc.fl.edu https://www.tcc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/solicitation/ https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

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TSC Purchasing Office or accessed by going to the TSC Purchasing website using this link: TSC-Bid- Protest-Procedures.

13. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: No additional information may be submitted, or follow-up performed by any proposer after the stated due date of a formal presentation to the evaluation committee, unless specifically requested by the College.

14. PUBLIC RECORDS: Upon posting of Intent to Award or thirty (30) days after opening, whichever is earlier, proposals become “public records” and shall be subject to public disclosure consistent with chapter 119.0731, Florida Statutes. Proposers must invoke the exemptions to disclosure provided by law in the response to the proposal and must identify the data or other materials to be protected and must state reasons why such exclusion from public disclosure is necessary. Any financial statements that are submitted are exempt from becoming public record FS 119.07(3).

15. INQUIRIES: All proposers shall carefully examine the Solicitation documents. Proposers are expected to examine the terms and conditions, specifications, scope of work, delivery schedule, proposal prices, extensions and all instructions pertaining to supplies and services.

Such inquiries regarding this Solicitation outside a pre-proposal conference must be submitted in writing via email to the College’s Director of Procurement and Auxiliary Services at Dustin.Frost@TSC.fl.edu . The College will provide written answers via Question and Answer form posted at Solicitation - TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE (fl.edu) and MyFloridaMarket Place.

The College will not be responsible for any oral instructions given by any employee(s) of the College in regard to this Solicitation.

16. QUALIFIER’S CONDITIONS: The Board specifically reserves the right to reject any conditional proposal.

17. PUBLIC OPENING/EVALUATION: Proposals shall be publicly opened and recorded on the date and time provided on the enclosed RFQ schedule unless changed by addendum. No other information or pricing will be read or discussed at the opening. All proposals received after the specified time will not be considered and will be returned to the proposer. Fax, e-mail, telegraph or telephone proposals will not be accepted. A proposal may not be altered after the opening of the proposals. Upon receipt of proposals, an evaluation committee, if required, will select qualified candidates based on criteria contained herein. The evaluation committee may contact qualified responders to give oral presentations after the initial review of all proposals.

18. ACCURACY OF PROPOSAL INFORMATION: Any proposer which submits in its proposal to the College any information which is determined to be substantially inaccurate, misleading, exaggerated, or incorrect, shall be disqualified from consideration.

19. ADVERTISING: In submitting a proposal, the proposer agrees not to use the results there from as a part of any commercial advertising unless permission in writing is granted by the College.

20. GOVERNMENTAL RESTRICTIONS: In the event that any governmental restrictions are imposed which would necessitate alteration of the material quality, workmanship or performance of the items offered on the RFQ prior to their performance, it shall be the responsibility of the firm to notify the TSC Purchasing Office at once, indicating in his/her letter the specific regulation which required an alteration, including any price adjustments occasioned thereby. The College reserves the right to accept such alteration or to cancel the contract or purchase order at no further expense to the College.

https://www.tsc.fl.edu/media/divisions/administrative-services/purchasing/TSC-Bid-Protest-Procedures.pdf https://www.tsc.fl.edu/media/divisions/administrative-services/purchasing/TSC-Bid-Protest-Procedures.pdf mailto:Dustin.Frost@tcc.fl.edu

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21. LIABILITY, INSURANCE, LICENSES AND PERMITS: Where proposers are required to enter or go onto the College property to deliver materials or perform work or services as a result of a proposal award, the proposer will assume the full duty, obligation and expense of obtaining all necessary licenses, permits and insurance. The proposer shall be liable for any damages or loss to the Board occasioned by negligence of the proposer (or agent) or any person the proposer has designated in the completion of the contract as a result of his or her proposal.

22. DRUG FREE WORKPLACE: Whenever two or more proposals which are equal with respect to price, quality, and service are received by the College for the procurement of commodities or contractual services, a proposal received that has completed the Drug Free Workplace form, certifying that it is a drug free workplace, shall be given preference.

23. CANCELLATION: In the event the contractor violates any of the provisions of this proposal, the Board shall give written notice to the contractor stating the deficiencies and unless deficiencies are corrected within thirty (30) days, recommendation will be made to the board for immediate cancellation. The College reserves the right to terminate any contract resulting from this invitation at any time and for any reason, upon giving thirty (30) days written notice to the other party.

24. TERMINATION: If a contract is awarded as a result of this RFQ and is terminated or cancelled within the first year of the contract period, the College may elect to negotiate and award a new contract to the next ranked proposer or to issue a new RFQ, whichever is determined to be in the best interest of the College.

The supplier will serve at the will and pleasure of the College. Either party may cancel the contract with thirty (30) days’ advanced written notice. However, at the College’s sole option, a termination for convenience by the College may be effective immediately and may apply to delivery orders (if applicable) or to the contract as a whole. The College shall be liable for goods or services delivered and accepted. In the event of termination by either party, the supplier will have, in no event, any claim against the College for lost profits or compensation for lost opportunities. After a receipt of a Termination Notice and except as otherwise directed by the College, the supplier shall:

• Stop orders/work on the date and to the extent specified.

• Terminate and settle all orders and/or sub-contracts relating to the performance of the terminated work. All costs incurred for canceled projects will be billed to the College.

• Transfer all work in progress, completed work, and other materials related to the terminated work as directed by the College.

• Continue and complete all parts of the work that have not been terminated.

25. SEVERABILITY: If any provision of a contract resulting from this RFQ is contrary to, prohibited by, or deemed invalid by applicable laws or regulations of any jurisdiction in which it is sought to be enforced, then said provisions shall be deemed inapplicable and omitted and shall not invalidate the remaining provisions of the agreement.

26. PUBLIC ENTITY CRIMES: A person or affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a public entity crime may not submit a proposal or a contract to provide any goods or services to a public entity for the construction or repair of a public building or public work, may not submit proposals on leases of real property to a public entity, may not be awarded work or perform work as a contractor, supplier, sub-proposer or consultant under a

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Note: By signing the proposal, the supplier attests they have not been placed on the convicted vendor list.

27. ACCEPTANCES AND REJECTION: The College reserves the right to reject all proposals, to waive any informalities and technicalities, and to solicit and re-advertise for new proposals, or to abandon the project in its entirety. The College reserves the right to make the award to that proposer who, in the opinion of the College, will be in the best interest of and/or the most advantageous to the College. The College reserves the right to reject the proposal of any vendor who has previously failed in the proper performance of an award or to deliver on time contracts, or who, in the College’s opinion, is not in a position to perform properly under this award. The College reserves the right to inspect all facilities of proposer’s in order to make a determination as to the foregoing.

28. JOINT VENTURES: Proposals submitted by firms under “joint venture” arrangements or other multi-party agreements must submit a power of attorney delegating authority to one principal with authority to negotiate and execute any/all contract documents resulting from negotiations/award of this RFQ.

29. DISPUTES & PROTESTS: In the case of any doubt or difference of opinion as to the items to be furnished hereunder, the decision of the College shall be final and binding on both parties.

Failure to file a protest within the amount of time prescribed in FS 120.57(3) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

30. FAMILIARITY WITH LAWS: All proposers are required to comply with all Federal, State, and Local laws, codes, rules and regulations controlling the action or operation of this RFQ. Relevant laws may include, but are not limited to: The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Office of Education 6A-14, State Requirements for Educational Facilities (SREF), Florida Statute 1013 (K-20) Education Code (Educational Facilities), OSHA regulations, and all Civil Rights legislation.

31. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: The College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status in its programs and activities.

The proposer agrees to make no distinction in its employment practices on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, genetic information, national origin, religion, gender sexual orientation, marital status, age or disability in such practices. The proposer agrees to adhere to any and all applicable State and Federal Civil Rights Laws.

32. SMALL BUSINESS PARTICIPATION: The College strongly encourages small, minority and/or women owned Firms or joint venture Firms to submit proposals. Minority/Women Business Enterprises that file false status of their M/WBE status may be found guilty of a felony of the second degree and be barred from bidding with the College for thirty-six (36) months pursuant to

287.094 Florida Statutes.

33. DEFAULT. In the event of default on a contract, the vendor shall pay to the Board, as liquidated damages an amount equal to 25% of the unit price proposal, times the quantity (or) $50.00, whichever amount is larger. In the event of default on a contract, the vendor shall pay all attorneys’ fees and court costs incurred in collecting any liquidated damages.

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34. INVOICING AND PAYMENT. Payment will be made by the College after the service awarded to a vendor have been received, inspected, and found to comply with award specifications, properly invoiced and minimally meet the following conditions to be considered as a valid payment request:

• Timely submission of a correct invoice, in strict accordance with the price and delivery elements as stipulated in the purchase order or contract, and submission to Accounts Payable at the address indicated on the purchase order.

• All invoices shall clearly reference the subject purchase order number; provide a sufficient description to identify goods or services for which payment is being requested;

and include date(s) of services.

• The invoice shall also contain the vendor’s Federal Employer Identification Number (F.E.I.N.).

• The College’s terms are “Net 30” after acceptance of goods or services and receipt of an acceptable invoice as described herein.

35. ANTI-DISCRIMINATION: The proposer certifies that he or she is in compliance with the non-discrimination clause in Section 202, Executive Order 11246, as amended by executive order 11375, relative to equal employment opportunity for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

36. OSHA: The proposer warrants that the product supplied to the College shall conform in all respects to the standards set forth in the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended, and the failure to comply with this condition will be considered as a breach of contract. (MSDS Statement)

37. AFFIRMATION: By submission of a proposal, the proposer affirms that his/her proposal is made without prior understanding, agreement or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a proposal for the same materials, supplies, equipment or services, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. Proposer agrees to abide by all terms and conditions of this RFQ and the resulting contract. No outside terms and conditions will be considered unless approved by the College.

38. RENEWAL: Renewal options for any contract entered into based on this RFQ will be specified in the contract.

39. FEDERAL FUNDING SOURCE: If the source of funding is federal, then Federal requirements must be followed including but not limited to Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations, the Davis Bacon Wage Act, Anti-Lobbying Certification, the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, provisions in 2 CFR Part 200.

40. INDEMNIFICATION: To the fullest extent permitted by law, the proposer shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the College, its District Board of Trustees, officers, agents, servants, and employees, from and against all claims, damages, losses, and expenses including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees and other legal costs such as those for paralegal, investigative, and legal support services, and the actual cost incurred for expert witness testimony, arising out of or resulting from the performance of services required under this Contract, provided that same is caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongful conduct of the proposer or other person utilized by the proposer in the performance of the work. Nothing herein shall be deemed to affect the rights, privileges, and immunities of the College as set forth in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes.

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The proposer, without exemption, shall indemnify and hold harmless the College, its employees and/or any of its District Board of Trustees from liability of any nature or kind, including cost and expenses for or on account of any copyrighted, patented, or non-patented invention, process or item manufactured by the proposer. Further, if such a claim is made or is pending, the proposer may, at its option and expense, procure for the College the right to use, replace or modify the item to render it non-infringing. If none of the alternatives are reasonably available, the College agrees to return the article, on request, to the proposer and receive reimbursement. If the proposer used any design, device or materials covered by letters, patent or copyright, it is mutually agreed and understood, without exception, that the proposal prices shall include all royalties or cost arising from the use of such design, device or materials in any way involved in the work.

41. VERIFICATION OF EMPLOYMENT: In accordance with F.S. 448.095, the proposer shall utilize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system to verify the employment eligibility of all persons employed during the contract term by the proposer to perform employment duties within Florida and all persons (including sub-consultants) assigned by the proposer to perform work pursuant to the contract with TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE.

42. PROHIBITION AGAINST CONTINGENT FEES: Vendors/Suppliers are hereby notified that any contract entered into by the College will contain a prohibition against contingent fees as follows:

“The vendor warrants that he or she has not employed or retained any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for the vendor to solicit or secure this agreement and that he or she has not paid or agreed to pay any person, company, corporation, individual, or firm, other than a bona fide employee working solely for the vendor any fee, commission, percentage, gift, or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award or making of this agreement.” For the breach or violation of this provision, the College shall have the right to terminate the agreement without liability and, at its discretion, to deduct from the contract price, or otherwise recover the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift, or consideration, and to disqualify the vendor from future contracts with the College for a period up to five (5) years.

43. OPEN COMPETITION: The College encourages free and open competition among proposers.

Whenever possible, specifications, qualification invitations and conditions are designed to accomplish this objective, consistent with the necessity to satisfy the College’s needs and the accomplishment of a sound economical operation. The proposer’s signature on its Statement of Qualifications guarantees that the proposer, its agents, officers or employees have not bribed or attempted to bribe or influence in any way an officer, employee or agent of the College.

44. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Any and all special conditions and specifications attached here to which vary from these general conditions shall have precedence.

45. DEBARMENT: The College, when using Federal funds may not solicit offers from, award contracts to or consent to sub-contract with contractors debarred, suspended or proposed for debarment, and may disapprove or not consent to the selection (by a contractor) of an individual to serve as a principal investigator, as a project manager, in a position of responsibility for the administration of Federal funds, or in another key personnel position, if the individual is listed in the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS). Also, the College shall not conduct business with an agent or representative of a contractor if the agent's or representative's name is listed in the EPLS. The College shall review the EPLS before conducting a pre-award survey or soliciting proposals, awarding contracts, renewing or otherwise extending the duration of existing contracts, or approving or consenting to the award, extension, or renewal of sub-contracts.

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46. LOBBYING: Proposer or Contractor is prohibited from using funds provided under this RFQ for the purpose of lobbying the Legislature or any official, officer, commission, board, authority, council, committee, or department of the executive branch or the judicial branch of state government.

47. RECORDS OF RETENTION: Contractors shall make available records, which includes books, documents, accounting procedures and practices, and other data, regardless of type and regardless of whether such items are in written form, in the form of computer data, or in any other form, and other supporting evidence to satisfy contract negotiation, administration, and audit requirements of the contracting agencies and the Comptroller General as per Federal Acquisition Regulation 52.212-5 Subpar 4.7.

48. SELECTION PROCESS: The successful company will be selected based on the evaluation criteria described in the applicable sections of this RFQ.

49. ASSIGNMENT: Neither this RFQ nor any duties or obligations assumed under any agreement or contract(s) resulting from this RFQ shall be assigned by the Firm without prior written consent of the College.

50. PROPOSER WARRANTY OF ABILITY TO PERFORM: Proposer shall warrant that there is no action suit, proceeding, inquiry, or investigation, at law or equity, before or by a court, governmental agency, public board or body, pending or, to the best of the proposer’s knowledge, threatened, which would in any way prohibit, restrain, or enjoin the execution or delivery of the proposer’s obligations or diminish the proposer’s obligations or diminish the proposer’s financial ability to perform the terms of any proposed contract with the College.

51. INDEPENDENT PROPOSER: Nothing herein is intended or shall be construed as in any way creating or establishing the relationship of co-partners between the parties or in any way making the proposer the agent or representative of the College for any purpose in any manner whatsoever. The proposer is, and shall remain, an independent contractor with respect to all services performed.

52. QUALIFICATIONS MODIFICATION: A proposer may change the Statement of Qualifications at any time prior to opening; however, no oral modification will be allowed. Only letters or other formal written requests for modifications or corrections of a previously submitted Statement of Qualifications, which are addressed in the same manner as the Statement of Qualifications, and are received by the College’s Director of Procurement and Auxiliary Services, Attn: Dustin Frost before the scheduled opening time will be accepted. The Statements of Qualifications, when opened, will then be corrected in accordance with such written requests, provided that the written request is contained in a sealed envelope; which is plainly marked A Modification of Qualifications with the proposer’s name.

53. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990 AND SUBSEQUENT REGULATION, 1991 AND 2010:

If special accommodations are required in order to attend the Pre-proposal meeting and/or the Statement opening, contact Dustin Frost, Director of Procurement and Auxiliary Services (850) 201-8484.

54. PROPOSED MATERIALS: The material submitted in response to the RFQ becomes the property of the College and is to be appended to any formal document, which would further define or expand the contractual relationship between the College and the proposer.

55. PROPRIETARY MATERIAL: All rights to proprietary material must be transferable to the College in the event the firm goes out of business.

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56. OWNERSHIP OF WORK PRODUCTS: The College will be considered the owner of all work products produced under any contract that results from this RFQ.

57. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS: The proposer is expected to comply with the true intent of this RFQ taken as a whole and shall not avail itself of any errors or omissions to the detriment of the services. Should the proposer suspect any error, omission, or discrepancy in the specifications or instructions, the proposer shall immediately notify the College, in writing, and the College shall issue written instructions to be followed. The proposer is responsible for the contents of its Statement of Qualifications and for satisfying the requirements set forth in the RFQ.

58. FIRM’S RESPONSIBILITY: It is understood, and the proposer hereby agrees it shall be solely responsible for all services it proposes, notwithstanding the detail present in the RFQ.

59. PROPOSAL REJECTION: The College shall have the right to reject any or all Statements of Qualifications and in particular to reject a Statements of Qualifications not accompanied by data required by the RFQ or a Statements of Qualifications in any way incomplete or irregular.

Conditional Statements of Qualifications will not be accepted.

60. PERFORMANCE INQUIRY: As part of the evaluation, the College may make inquiries to determine the ability of the proposer to perform the work. Please provide references as stated in the Previous Experience section of the Instructions for Preparing Proposals in this RFQ, preferably from other educational institutions, which shall include the complete name, address, telephone number, and contact person.

61. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE: This contract, and any disputes hereunder, shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida and enforced in the courts of the State of Florida.

The College and proposer hereby agree that venues shall lie in Leon, Gadsden or Wakulla County, Florida.

62. SUBMITTAL: Proposals must be received by the TSC Purchasing Office by October 14, 2026, at 1:45 pm EDST.

Proposal Number: RFQ 2026-04 Proposals will be opened: October 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm EDST Proposals Will Be Opened in the TSC Purchasing Office (see address below)

Send Proposal to:

TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE

Purchasing Department Administration Building 27, Room 193 444 Appleyard Drive Tallahassee, Florida 32304-2895

END OF SECTION

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INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

General Requirements

During the performance of services under any contract resulting from this RFQ, the selected Architect/Engineer ("Firm") shall procure and maintain, at its own expense, insurance coverage with limits not less than those specified below.

Evidence of required insurance shall be provided to the College prior to commencement of services and maintained throughout the term of the contract.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

1. Commercial General Liability

Commercial General Liability insurance written on an occurrence basis with limits of not less than:

• $1,000,000 per occurrence

• $2,000,000 general aggregate

• $2,000,000 products/completed operations aggregate, where applicable

Coverage shall include bodily injury, property damage, personal and advertising injury, contractual liability, and products/completed operations coverage, as applicable to the services performed.

2. Automobile Liability

Automobile Liability insurance with a minimum $1,000,000 combined single limit per accident for bodily injury and property damage.

Coverage shall apply to owned, hired, and non-owned automobiles, as applicable to the Firm's operations.

3. Workers' Compensation and Employers' Liability

Workers' Compensation insurance shall be maintained in accordance with the statutory requirements of the State of Florida.

Employers' Liability coverage shall be maintained with limits of not less than:

• $500,000 each accident

• $500,000 disease – each employee

• $500,000 disease – policy limit

A Firm legally exempt from Workers' Compensation requirements shall provide satisfactory evidence of such exemption.

4. Professional Liability / Errors & Omissions

The Firm shall maintain Professional Liability / Errors & Omissions insurance covering architectural, engineering, and other professional services performed under the contract with limits of not less than:

• $2,000,000 per claim

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• $2,000,000 aggregate

Professional Liability insurance may be written on a claims-made basis, provided coverage is maintained continuously throughout the performance of professional services and for a period specified by the resulting contract following completion of the services, or equivalent extended reporting or prior-acts coverage acceptable to the College is maintained.

The College reserves the right to require increased Professional Liability limits for individual projects when warranted by the size, scope, complexity, or risk of the project.

Insurance Conditions

• Insurance shall be issued by insurers authorized to conduct business in the State of Florida or otherwise acceptable to the College.

• Unless otherwise approved by the College, insurers shall maintain an A.M. Best rating of A-or better and Financial Size Category VII or better.

• Tallahassee State College, its District Board of Trustees, officers, employees, and agents shall be included as Additional Insureds on the Commercial General Liability policy for liability arising from the Firm's performance of services under the contract.

• Automobile Liability coverage shall include the College as an Additional Insured where applicable and commercially available.

• Additional Insured status shall not be required on Professional Liability / Errors & Omissions or Workers' Compensation coverage.

• The Firm shall provide Certificates of Insurance and, when requested by the College, copies of applicable endorsements demonstrating compliance with the insurance requirements.

• Required insurance shall not be canceled, materially reduced, or allowed to expire without notice as required by the applicable policy and endorsements. The Firm shall promptly notify the College upon receiving notice of cancellation, nonrenewal, or material reduction in required coverage.

• Deductibles and self-insured retentions shall be the responsibility of the Firm. The College reserves the right to review and approve any deductible or self-insured retention that it determines may materially affect the Firm's ability to perform its contractual obligations.

• The Firm shall not commence services until evidence of the required insurance has been provided to and accepted by the College.

• The Firm shall require its subconsultants to maintain insurance appropriate to the services being performed and in limits reasonably acceptable to the College. The Firm shall remain responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable insurance requirements by its subconsultants.

• The insurance requirements established herein represent minimum requirements and shall not be construed to limit the Firm's liability or contractual obligations.

Professional Liability – Claims-Made Coverage

Professional Liability / Errors & Omissions insurance written on a claims-made basis is acceptable.

If Professional Liability coverage is written on a claims-made basis, the Firm shall maintain continuous coverage with a retroactive date no later than the commencement of professional services under the contract and shall maintain such coverage, or equivalent extended reporting coverage, for the period required by the resulting agreement following completion of services.

Misrepresentation

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Misrepresentation of any material fact concerning the Firm's insurance coverage, policies, or ability to satisfy the College's insurance requirements may constitute grounds for rejection of the Proposal, termination of negotiations, or termination or rescission of any resulting contract, as applicable and permitted by law.

Governmental Entities

If a selected Firm is a governmental entity or other entity subject to statutory insurance or self-insurance provisions, the College may approve alternative evidence of insurance or financial responsibility consistent with applicable law.

Project-Specific Requirements

The College reserves the right to establish additional or higher insurance requirements for an individual project based upon the project's size, scope, complexity, risk, or other relevant circumstances. Any project-specific requirements will be identified prior to authorization of the applicable services.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

1. PURCHASING AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER PUBLIC AGENCIES:

• All firms submitting a response to this RFQ agree that such response also constitutes an offer to all public entities within the State of Florida under the same conditions, for the same price, and for the same effective period, unless an exemption is submitted with the proposal. The exemption should be submitted on a separate form with the Statement of Qualifications and labeled Exemption to Purchasing Agreements with other Public Agencies.

• Each public agency desiring to accept these proposals, and make an award thereof, shall do so independently of any other public agency. Each agency shall be responsible for its own purchases and each shall be liable only for materials and/or services ordered and received by it, and no agency assumes any liability by virtue of this RFQ.

2. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: The College will attempt to adhere to the following schedule of events:

Date Time Description

September 1, 2026 5:00 PM Release of RFQ to Public, Posted on MyFloridaMarket Place & Solicitation - TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE (fl.edu)

September 8, 2026 5:00 PM

Deadline for Written Questions / Requests for Information

Questions must be submitted in writing via email to Dustin Frost, Director of Procurement and Auxiliary Service Dustin.frost@TSC.fl.edu

September 15, 2026 5:00 PM Anticipated Date of official response to questions via Question and Answer Form will be posted on MyFloridaMarket Place & Solicitation - TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE (fl.edu)

October 14, 2026 1:45 PM Proposals Due

October 14, 2026 2:00 PM Proposal Opening

October 15, 2026 10:00AM Proposal Evaluations Meeting, Facilities (FAC) Building#54, Room 211 (Start at 10:00am)

October 19, 2026 By 5:00

PM

Notification of short list companies and scheduling of Part II Formal Presentations. Short list will be posted on MyFloridaMarket Place & Solicitation - TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE (fl.edu)

October 27-30, 2026 TBD PART II - Formal Presentations from Selected Architects

November 2, 2026 1:00 PM Anticipated date that the intended award will be posted

November 16, 2026 2:30 PM Recommendation to the Board of Trustees https://www.tcc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/solicitation/ mailto:Dustin.frost@tcc.fl.edu https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ https://www.tcc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/solicitation/ https://www.tcc.fl.edu/about/college/administrative-services/purchasing/solicitation/

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PROPOSAL SPECIFICATIONS

1. SCOPE OF SERVICES SOUGHT

A. Background Since 1966, Tallahassee State College has offered high-quality post-secondary education for the citizens of Leon, Gadsden and Wakulla counties, along with students from throughout the state, nation and abroad. With excellent academic support, classroom facilities and Web-based classes, TSC offers a variety of instructional methods and a learning atmosphere to ensure student success.

The College has grown from one building and 698 students in 1966 to now 65+ buildings in 2026, proving to be an important provider of post-secondary education within Gadsden, Leon, Wakulla counties and Statewide with more than 8,000 students. In addition to providing service to the Tri-County area, the College is the institution of choice for many academically talented students in the state. The College's athletic teams, the Eagles, enjoy a high level of achievement in men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, and softball.

B. Overview Tallahassee State College ("TSC" or the "College") invites qualified firms to submit proposals to provide continuing professional Architectural and Engineering ("A/E") services in accordance with Section 287.055, Florida Statutes, the Consultants' Competitive Negotiation Act ("CCNA").

The selected firm(s) will provide professional architectural and engineering services for new construction, renovation, remodeling, rehabilitation, repair, planning, studies, and other projects or services of a specified nature as authorized by the College during the term of the continuing services contract.

Individual projects assigned under the continuing services contract shall not exceed the applicable maximum estimated construction cost established for continuing contracts under Section 287.055(2)(g), Florida Statutes, as adjusted annually by the Florida Department of Management Services. Individual study activities shall not exceed the applicable statutory limit for professional services fees established under Section 287.055(2)(g), Florida Statutes.

The anticipated term of the continuing services contract shall not exceed three (3) years, subject to the terms and conditions of the resulting agreement.

The selected firm(s) shall possess demonstrated knowledge and experience with applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, codes, standards, and requirements governing public higher education facilities in Florida, including, as applicable, the Florida Building Code, Florida Fire Prevention Code, accessibility requirements, applicable Florida Department of Education requirements, and other requirements applicable to Florida College System facilities.

The selected firm(s) should also demonstrate familiarity with Florida College System facilities planning, capital improvement planning, educational plant surveys, facilities

Page | 17 reporting, and other applicable Florida Department of Education planning and reporting requirements.

C. Statement of Qualifications This Request for Proposal (RFQ) is issued for the purpose of soliciting proposals from qualified architectural firms to provide professional architectural / engineering services for minor construction, renovation and remodeling projects at all six sites for Tallahassee State College. TSC intends to select the top scoring companies for projects on Main Campus and other Leon County locations, Gadsden and/or Wakulla County locations.

Work will be assigned on a rotating basis. The firms must be certified businesses and licensed Architects in the State of Florida and meet all other requirements as may be required by law.

D. Term of Contract The initial term of any contract resulting from this RFQ is anticipated to be one (1) year, commencing on the effective date stated in the resulting agreement.

At the sole option of the College, and subject to satisfactory performance by the firm, the College may renew the contract for up to two (2) additional one-year periods, for a maximum potential contract term of three (3) years.

Renewal shall not be automatic and shall be subject to the College's determination that continued services are in its best interest, the firm's satisfactory performance, and the availability of funding, as applicable.

The College may terminate the contract, in whole or in part, for convenience upon thirty

(30) days' prior written notice to the firm. Termination for cause shall be governed by the terms and conditions of the resulting agreement.

Expiration or termination of the continuing services contract shall not, unless otherwise directed by the College, affect the firm's obligation to complete any individual project or task authorization issued prior to the effective date of expiration or termination.

The contract start date shall be established in the final agreement.

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EVALUATION PROCESS/CRITERIA

1. EVALUATION METHOD:

A. PART ONE of the evaluation process will consist of an initial evaluation and scoring of all responsive and responsible written proposals by an Evaluation Committee composed of TSC staff members selected by the College's Vice President for Administrative Services.

Prior to evaluation and scoring, proposals will be reviewed for compliance with all mandatory and Pass/Fail requirements identified in the Solicitation. Proposers failing to satisfy a mandatory requirement shall not proceed to the scored evaluation unless the College determines that the deficiency is minor or non-material and may be waived or clarified in accordance with the terms of the Solicitation.

The Evaluation Committee will independently evaluate and score each qualified proposal in accordance with the criteria and point values established in the Point System – Written Proposal.

A Proposer must receive a minimum written proposal score of 85 points out of 100 available points to be eligible for advancement to PART TWO – Presentations/Interviews. Scores shall be calculated by adding the individual scores assigned by all Evaluation Committee members and dividing the toral by the number of evaluators submitting scores.

The College intends to invite the three (3) to five (5) highest-ranked Proposers achieving the minimum qualifying score to participate in PART TWO. Achieving the minimum qualifying score does not guarantee advancement to PART TWO.

If fewer than three (3) Proposers achieve the minimum qualifying score, the College reserves the right to proceed with the qualified Proposer(s), conduct presentations/interviews with the qualified Proposer(s), or take other action permitted by the Solicitation and applicable law.

The College reserves the right to waive PART TWO when the Evaluation Committee determines that presentations/interviews are unnecessary to establish the ranking of the most highly qualified firms, provided such action is consistent with the Solicitation and applicable law.

B. PART TWO of the evaluation process will consist of invitations to the companies that met the minimum score to make a formal presentation in person at a later scheduled time. The presentation should elaborate in more detail than the prior submitted proposal and answer any questions that arise during the presentation.

C. Upon final evaluation of formal presentations, the selection committee will make a recommendation to the District Board of Trustees to award the firm recommended to provide architectural design services for projects, based on all written proposals, formal presentations and other factors in the best interests of the College.

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D. The College shall be the judges of this project’s best interests, the proposals, and approval of the resulting contract. The College’s decision will be final. The College shall be the sole judge of its own best interests, the proposals, and approval of the resulting contract.

2. NON-RESPONSIVE AND/OR DISQUALIFIED PROPOSALS:

A. Non-responsive and/or Disqualified proposals will be rejected by the Purchasing

Department and will not be distributed to the evaluation committee for consideration.

Additionally, the evaluation committee may determine that required submittals/documentation are so inadequate as to be determined to be non-responsive and/or disqualified. Non-responsive and/or Disqualified proposals may include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Failure to sign the proposal

2. Failure to acknowledge addenda

3. Failure to provide required submittals/documentation/ Forms

4. Submission of a late proposal

5. Submission of a proposal that contains conflicting terms and conditions than those listed by the College

6. Proposer does not meet minimum mandatory requirements

3. SHORT LISTING

A. Upon completion of the evaluation of all written proposals, the evaluation committee shall recommend a short list of proposers to present formal presentations.

B. Proposers will be notified via phone and/or email of making the short list.

4. STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATION:

A. To ensure that all RFQ’s are evaluated fairly, it is very important that the RFQ’s are prepared according to the prescribed format below and include all requested documentation and information.

B. Point System-Written Proposal

Criteria for Evaluating Written Proposals Weight Letter of Understanding & Executive Summary of Proposer’s Business Background (0-5 points) – SECTION 1 5%

Corporate, License & Minimum Professional Qualifications (Pass/Fail)) – SECTION 2 Pass/Fail

Location, Accessibility & Ability to Serve TSC (0 to 5 points) – SECTION 3 5% Adequacy of Management, Administrative and Project Personnel (0- 20pts) – SECTION 4 20%

Current…