RFQ 2026-24.pdf

EMERALD COAST

UTILITIES AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

FOR

EFFLUENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

CONSULTANT SERVICES

RFQu NO. 2026-24

PROPOSALS DUE

Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 10:00 A.M., Central Time

August 2026

RFQu 2026-24 Page 1 of 301

TABLE OF CONTENTS

STATEMENT OF NO PROPOSAL

PART 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 PURPOSE

1.2 PROPOSAL SCHEDULE

1.3 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

1.4 SUBSTITUTION OF PERSONNEL

1.5 CONVICTION OF PUBLIC ENTITY CRIME

1.6 PROPOSAL WITHDRAWAL

1.7 PROPOSAL AUTHORIZATION

1.8 PROPOSAL ERRORS

1.9 AWARD OF CONTRACT

1.10 TAXES

1.11 TERMS

1.12 LIST OF PROPOSERS

1.13 PROPOSAL QUESTIONS

1.14 COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIFICATIONS

1.15 UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE

1.16 EXECUTION OF CONTRACT

1.17 CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT

1.18 PROTESTS

1.19 CONTRACTS EXCEEDING ONE (1) YEAR

1.20 CONTRACTOR NOT AGENT

1.21 ASSIGNMENT PROHIBITED

1.22 CONDUCT OF PARTICIPANTS

1.23 CONE OF SILENCE

1.24 PROPOSAL INFORMALITIES

1.25 NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICIES

1.26 OTHER PROVISIONS

1.27 NO COLLUSION CLAUSE

1.28 AUTHORIZED OFFER

1.29 NON-CONFIDENTIALITY OF PROPOSALS

RFQu 2026-24 Page 2 of 301

1.30 E-VERIFY COMPLIANCE

PART 2 - SCOPE OF WORK

PART 3 - QUALIFICATIONS PACKAGE REQUIREMENTS

3.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.2 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

3.3 QUALIFICATIONS PACKAGE FORMAT

3.4 USE OF SUBCONSULTANTS

3.5 Joint Venture

PART 4 - SELECTION PROCEDURE

4.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

4.2 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

4.3 EVALUATION AND SELECTION

4.4 ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

PART 5 - CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS

RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY AND STANDARDS

GENERAL PROVISIONS

ADDENDUM RECEIPT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & CERTIFICATIONS

AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

Scope of Work issued

RFQu 2026-24 Page 3 of 301

PROJECT PLANS

ENGINEER REPORT

Emerald Coast Utilities Authority Purchasing and Stores Division

9255 Sturdevant Street Pensacola, Florida 32514-7038

850-969-6531

STATEMENT OF NO PROPOSAL

If you do not intend to make a proposal for this service, please return this form to the above address immediately. If this statement is not completed and returned, your company may be deleted from the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority Vendors’ list for this commodity/service.

We the undersigned have declined to make a proposal on requested service RFQu 2026-24 EFFLUENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM CONSULTING SERVICES, for the following reasons:

_____ Specifications too “tight,” i.e., geared toward one brand or manufacturer only (explain below).

_____ Insufficient time to respond to the Request for Proposals.

_____ We do not offer this service.

_____ Our schedule would not permit us to perform.

_____ Unable to meet bond/insurance requirements.

_____ Specifications are unclear (explain below).

_____ Remove us from your vendors’ list for this commodity/service.

_____ Other (specify below).

REMARKS:

Company Name: ________________________________

Signature: ________________________________

Telephone: _______________ Date: _________

NOTE: Statement of No Proposal may be faxed to the Purchasing and Stores Division (850-969- 3384), Attention: Wes Pavlicek or emailed to Bids@ecua.fl.gov.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 4 of 301 mailto:bids@ecua.fl.gov

PART 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this Request for Qualifications (RFQu) is to identify and select a professional consulting firm to provide design / plans production, bidding / contract management assistance, and construction administration assistance, and certification / record drawing preparation for an Effluent Management System for the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority (ECUA) in Pensacola, Florida.

The information provided in this RFQu outlines the scope of work, guidelines for the qualifications package preparation, selection procedure, and contract requirements for firms interested in providing services. This RFQu has been prepared and will be administered in accordance with Section 287.055, Florida Statutes (the Consultants' Competitive Negotiations Act).

1.2 PROPOSAL SCHEDULE

The following schedule is proposed. This schedule is subject to change or adjustment at the discretion of ECUA.

* An addendum to this RFQu will be issued if any of these dates/times change.

** These dates are after the proposals are due and subject to change. However, an addendum to this RFQu will not be issued if any of these dates change. Specific dates/times will be determined at each phase.

1.3 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

In a sealed envelope (or other packaging) containing Technical and Fee Proposal, provide two (2) original and one (1) electronic copy (USB flash drive). Proposals may be mailed or delivered to Purchasing at 9255 Sturdevant Street, Ellyson Industrial Park, Pensacola, Florida, 32514, in a sealed envelope by September 34, 22026 at 10:00 am CT clearly marked with the proposal name, time and date of the opening.

Regardless of the method of delivery, each proposer shall be responsible for his/her proposal(s) being delivered on time, as the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority assumes

EVENT DATE/TIME

Release of RFQu August 31, 2026 Deadline for Questions/Request for Clarifications * September 09, 2026 12:00 pm CT

Estimated issuance of Addendum:

Questions Answered * September 10, 2026 4:00 pm CT

Proposal Due Date/Time (Deadline) * September 24, 2026 10:00 am CT Recommendation to Citizens’ Advisory Committee/Board of Directors ** October 20, 2026

Anticipated Contract Approval/Award ** October 27, 2026 Effective Date of Contract(s) December 01, 2026

RFQu 2026-24 Page 5 of 301 no responsibility for same. Proposals offered or received after the time set for the proposal opening will be rejected and returned unopened to the proposer.

1.4 SUBSTITUTION OF PERSONNEL

It is the intention of ECUA that the Provider's personnel proposed for the contract will be available for the contract term. In the event the Provider requests to substitute personnel, it is expected that such personnel shall have equal or higher knowledge, skills, abilities, and qualifications (KSA's). ECUA reserves the right to request resumes and approve the use of such personnel.

1.5 CONVICTION OF PUBLIC ENTITY CRIME

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 on a contract to provide any goods or services to a public entity, may not submit a proposal on a contract with 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 or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under a contract with any public entity, and may not transact business with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017, for Category Two ($35,000) for a period of 36 months from the date of being placed on the Convicted Vendor List.

1.6 PROPOSAL WITHDRAWAL

No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days from the opening of the proposals. Prices may not be modified during this period. Proposals may be withdrawn at any time prior to the RFQu opening time.

1.7 PROPOSAL AUTHORIZATION

All proposals must be submitted as outlined in Section 3.0 (Proposal Response Requirements) under the Scope of Services for Effluent Management System Consulting Services. Affidavit of No Coercion for Labor and Services, Drug Free Workplace Certification, Collusion and Conflict Certification, Confined Space Entry Compliance Certification, E-Verify Certification, Scrutinized Entities and Foreign Country of Concern Certification and Disclosure all must be signed by an authorized representative of the company submitting the proposal and included in the proposal.

1.8 PROPOSAL ERRORS

The following shall govern the correction of information submitted in a proposal when that information is a determinant of the responsiveness of the proposal:

No proposer shall be permitted to correct a proposal mistake after opening the proposals that would cause such proposer to have the lowest proposal, except that any proposer

RFQu 2026-24 Page 6 of 301 may correct errors in extension of unit prices stated in the proposal, or in multiplication, division, addition, or subtraction. In such cases, unit prices in the proposal shall not be changed.

1.9 AWARD OF CONTRACT

ECUA reserves the right to establish priorities and to award the contract to a single proposer based upon the total proposal or to multiple proposers based upon the items individually proposed.

1.10 TAXES

Do not include any tax with your proposal. The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority is exempt from federal, state and local taxes. Tax exempt number 85-8012640152C-4 applies.

1.11 TERMS

Minimum terms will be net 30 (30 days after receipt of material/service) unless a discount is involved. Terms offering a discount for prompt payment will only be considered in determining the low proposal if the discount period is 15 days or greater (15 days after receipt of material/service or invoice, whichever is greater).

1.12 LIST OF PROPOSERS

The List of Proposers will be posted to BidNet Direct at www.bidnetdirect.com/florida/emeraldcoastutilitiesauthority on or about September 24, 2026.

1.13 PROPOSAL QUESTIONS

All questions concerning the specifications, requests for additional information, or proposal submission procedures can be emailed to the Purchasing and Stores Division Sole Point of Contact (POC) (as listed below) by September 09, 2026, 12:00 pm CT for consideration. Answers will be provided in the form of an addendum. Only questions answered by addenda will be binding. Oral and other interpretations or classifications will be without legal effect. ECCUA shall not be responsible for providing said addenda to potential proposers who receive a proposal package from other sources. All addenda issued must be acknowledged by signature and returned in proposal package to meet proposal requirements.

Attn: Wes Pavlicek, Senior Purchasing Agent Email: bids@ecua.fl.gov

RFQu 2026-24 Page 7 of 301 http://www.bidnetdirect.com/florida/emeraldcoastutilitiesauthority mailto:bids@ecua.fl.gov

1.14 COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIFICATIONS

In order to determine that your proposal complies with specifications, product literature and/or data/information should be included with the proposal. Any exceptions from the RFQu specifications should be detailed and identified as part of the Qualifications Forms Package.

1.15 UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE

The Uniform Commercial Code (Florida Statutes, Chapter 672) shall prevail as the basis for contractual obligations between the awarded proposer/contractor and Emerald Coast Utilities Authority for any terms and conditions not specifically stated in this Request for Qualifications.

1.16 EXECUTION OF CONTRACT

Any action of ECUA in awarding the purchase of any material or performance of a service is subject to and conditioned upon the execution of a written purchase contract and/or a purchase order between ECUA and the proposer. The following words are used interchangeably throughout this document and have the same meaning and effect:

proposer, contractor, vendor, responder, offeror and supplier.

1.17 CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT

This Request for Qualifications shall be included and incorporated in the final contract or purchase order. The order of contract precedence will be the contract (purchase order), RFQu document and response. Any and all legal action necessary to enforce the contract will be held in Escambia County, Florida and the contract will be interpreted according to the laws of Florida.

1.18 PROTESTS

Any person whose substantial interests are directly and adversely affected by any portion of a Solicitation (including plans, specifications, or other requirements) or any decision based thereon (a “Protestor”) may file a Protest in accordance with the following rules. Failure of a Protestor to comply with the times provided herein shall constitute a waiver of Protest rights. Notice of Protest of any portion of a Solicitation or intended decision based thereon shall be delivered to ECUA within three (3) business days of the Protestor’s receipt of the Solicitation or notice of any intended decision based thereon. A Notice of Protest shall be in writing, shall state the subject matter of the Protest, and shall be submitted to the following via hand delivery, registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or electronic mail with the subject line clearly identifying the communication as a Protest and the Solicitation number (e.g. Bid Protest

– ITB 2045-500) to:

RFQu 2026-24 Page 8 of 301

Attn: Executive Director 9255 Sturdevant Street Pensacola, FL 32514 Bidprotest@ecua.fl.gov

With copies provided to:

ECUA General Counsel 40 Palafox Place, Suite 300 Pensacola, FL 32502 ROBservice@lawpensacola.com

A formal written Protest shall be delivered to ECUA within ten (10) business days after the submitting of Notice of Protest. A formal written Protest shall state with particularity the facts and the law on which the Protest is based.

Upon receipt of a Notice of Protest, which has been timely delivered to ECUA, the Executive Director shall pause all actions of ECUA related to the Solicitation and subsequent award based thereon until the Protest has been resolved. However, if the Executive Director, at his/her sole discretion, determines that such a delay would be detrimental to the interests of ECUA or the public health, safety, or welfare, the Executive Director may direct that the Solicitation proceed and/or recommend to the ECUA Board that the Solicitation be awarded despite the pending Protest. In such an event, the award based on such Solicitation shall be subject to the outcome of the Protest, and ECUA shall give notice of such to the Contractor which is awarded the Contract. Notwithstanding, if ECUA does not prevail in the Protest, ECUA may take such action as it considers appropriate, which may include, but shall not be limited to, award based on the Solicitation to the prevailing party, cancellation of the awarded Solicitation, or readvertisement.

The Executive Director may provide a reasonable opportunity to resolve a Protest by agreement. If an agreement is not reached within such time as the Executive Director considers reasonable under the circumstances, the Executive Director shall review the facts and the law on which the Protest is based and shall render a decision which shall be in writing and shall be promptly transmitted to the Protestor.

If the Protestor wishes to continue the Protest beyond the decision of the Executive Director, the Protestor shall submit a petition for review by the ECUA Board. This petition shall be made in writing and delivered to the Executive Director within ten (10) business days after notice of the decision of the Executive Director. Such petition shall state the particular grounds on which it is based and may include pertinent documents and evidence relating thereto. Any grounds not stated shall be deemed to have been waived by the Protestor. This petition must also be accompanied by a Bond of an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the value of the Bid/proposal (“Protest Bond”).

This Protest Bond shall be in the form required by the Solicitation for other bonds.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 9 of 301

Failure of the protestor to timely deliver a petition for review by the ECUA Board or required Bond shall constitute a waiver, and the decision of the Executive Director shall immediately be final and binding.

The Protest Bond shall be conditioned upon the payment of all costs and charges incurred by ECUA as a result of the Protest. If the Protestor prevails in a Protest, the bond shall be returned to the Protestor. If ECUA prevails in a Protest, ECUA shall be entitled to recover the costs and charges incurred as a result of the Protest.

Notwithstanding, the prevailing party of a Protest shall not be entitled to recover its reasonable attorney’s fees unless allowed by Florida Statutes.

1.19 CONTRACTS EXCEEDING ONE (1) YEAR

When applicable, a contract may be renewed contingent upon cost factors, mutual agreement, satisfactory performance evaluations, availability of funds and ECUA Board approval. ECUA's performance and obligation to pay for the purchase of services or tangible personal property of a period in excess of one (1) fiscal year under any contractual relationship is contingent upon an annual budget approval by the ECUA Board.

1.20 CONTRACTOR NOT AGENT

Except as ECUA may specify in writing, Contractor shall have no authority, express or implied, to act on behalf of ECUA in any capacity whatsoever as an agent. Contractor shall have no authority, express or implied, pursuant to this agreement to bind ECUA to any obligation whatsoever.

1.21 ASSIGNMENT PROHIBITED

Contractor may not assign any right or obligation pursuant to this agreement. In the event that ECUA, in its sole discretion, at any time during the term of this agreement, desires the removal of any person or persons assigned by Contractor to perform services pursuant to this agreement, Contractor shall remove any such person immediately upon receiving written notice from ECUA of its desire for removal of such person or persons.

1.22 CONDUCT OF PARTICIPANTS

After the issuance of any solicitation, all bidders/proposers/protestors or individuals acting on their behalf are hereby prohibited from lobbying as defined herein or otherwise attempting to persuade or influence any elected ECUA officials, their agents or employees or any member of the relevant selection committee at any time during the blackout period as defined herein; provided, however, nothing herein shall prohibit bidders/proposers/protestors or individuals acting on their behalf from communicating with the purchasing staff concerning a pending solicitation unless otherwise provided in the solicitation or unless otherwise directed by the Purchasing Manager.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 10 of 301

Lobbying means the attempt to influence the thinking of elected ECUA officials, their agents or employees or any member of the relevant selection committee for or against a specific cause related to a pending solicitation for goods or services, in person, by mail, by facsimile, by telephone, by electronic mail, or by any other means of communication.

1.23 CONE OF SILENCE

There shall be a Cone of Silence in place during the period of time beginning when the bids/proposals for solicitations (Invitation to Bid or the Request for Proposal), or Requests for Letters of Interest, Qualifications, or Invitation to Negotiate, as applicable, are advertised and ending once the ECUA Board awards the contract, and any resulting Bid Protest is resolved or the Solicitation is otherwise cancelled. All communications concerning any aspect of any Solicitation, during the Cone of Silence period, shall be sent in writing and only to the sole point of contact identified in the Specifications included in the Solicitation. Conduct inconsistent with this section may be grounds for disqualifying the offending proposer from consideration or from submitting any future proposal.

1.24 PROPOSAL INFORMALITIES

ECUA reserves the right to waive informalities in any proposal; reject any or all proposals, in whole or in part; resolicit a project, in whole or in part; and to accept a proposal that in its judgement is the most favorable from a responsible proposer. ECUA reserves the right to award this contract based upon what ECUA believes to be in the best interests of its ratepayers, in the reasonable exercise of its discretion and not solely based upon price. ECUA further reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities as may be required to meet the needs of ECUA, at the unit price which is proposed. ECUA may award a contract to a primary and a secondary Contractor. In that case, ECUA will assign work to the primary Contractor unless it is determined by ECUA that circumstances dictate that work be assigned to the secondary Contractor. The two (2) Contractors may be utilized in coordination, if necessary.

1.25 NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICIES

ECUA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, creed/religion, age, marital status, disability/handicapped status, veteran status or any other legally protected status in employment or provision of service.

1.26 OTHER PROVISIONS

Contractor is required to comply with public records laws codified in Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, and is specifically required to:

A. Keep and maintain public records required by ECUA to perform the service.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 11 of 301

B. Upon request from ECUA’s custodian of public records, provide ECUA with a copy of the requested records or allow the records to be inspected or copied within a reasonable time at a cost that does not exceed the cost provided in Chapter 119 or as otherwise provided by law.

C. Ensure that public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements are not disclosed except as authorized by law for the duration of the contract term and following completion of the contract if the Contractor does not transfer the records to ECUA.

D. Upon completion of the contract, transfer, at no cost, to ECUA all public records in possession of the Contractor or keep and maintain public records required by ECUA to perform the service. If the Contractor transfers all public records to ECUA upon completion of the contract, the Contractor shall destroy any duplicate public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements. If the Contractor keeps and maintains public records upon completion of the contract, the Contractor shall meet all applicable requirements for retaining public records. All records stored electronically must be provided to ECUA, upon request from ECUA’s custodian of public records, in a format that is compatible with the information technology systems of ECUA.

IF THE CONTRACTOR HAS QUESTIONS REGARDING THE

APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 119, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO THE

CONTRACTOR’S DUTY TO PROVIDE PUBLIC RECORDS

RELATING TO THIS CONTRACT, CONTACT ECUA’S CUSTODIAN

OF PUBLIC RECORDS AT 850-969-3302, BY EMAIL AT

PUBLICRECORDSREQUEST@ECUA.FL.GOV, OR BY MAIL AT 9255

STURDEVANT STREET, PENSACOLA, FLORIDA 32514.

1.27 NO COLLUSION CLAUSE

By submitting a response to this RFQu, the proposer certifies that the proposer has not divulged to, discussed or compared his/her competitive proposal with other proposers and has not colluded with any other proposers or parties to this competitive proposal.

Also, the proposer certifies, and in the case of a joint competitive proposal each party thereto certifies as to its own organization, that in connection with the competitive proposal:

A. Any prices and/or cost data submitted have been arrived at independently, without consultation, communication, or agreement, for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices and/or cost data, with any other proposer or with any competitor;

B. Any prices and/or cost data quoted for this competitive proposal have not been knowingly disclosed by the competitive proposer and will not knowingly be

RFQu 2026-24 Page 12 of 301 mailto:publicrecordsrequest@ECUA.FL.GOV disclosed by the proposer, directly or indirectly to any other proposer or to any competitor, prior to the scheduled opening and award of the contract;

C. No attempt has been made or will be made by the proposer to induce any other person or firm to submit or not to submit a competitive proposal for the purpose of restricting competition;

D. The only person or persons interested in this competitive proposal is/are the principal or principals named herein and that no person other than herein mentioned has any interest in this competitive proposal or in the Agreement to be entered into.

1.28 AUTHORIZED OFFER

The person submitting the proposal should indicate the extent of authorization by him or her to make a valid offer in the proposal summary that may be accepted by ECUA to form a valid and binding contract. For access to individuals accepted within the State of Florida, go to the Department of State, Division of Corporations, https://search.sunbiz.org/.

If the person submitting the proposal is not authorized to submit a proposal that can be bound by ECUA’s acceptance, such person should also obtain the signature of an authorized representative of the proposer that may result in a bound contract upon ECUA’s acceptance. An electronic signature using an industry acceptable software such as DocuSign, Adobe Signature or similar is acceptable.

Proposals should be typed or written in ink, signatures should be manually signed in ink, and any corrections should be typed or made in ink and initialed.

1.29 NON-CONFIDENTIALITY OF PROPOSALS

ECUA does not warrant the confidentiality of proposals submitted in response to this Request for Proposals. All proposals are subject to Florida’s public records law.

Proposers requiring confidentiality should not submit.

1.30 E-VERIFY COMPLIANCE

Contractor hereby certifies compliance with the following: pursuant to § 448.095(2) Florida Statutes (2020), Contractor shall register with and use the E-Verify system operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security to verify the work authorization status of all new employees hired by Contractor while performing work or providing services for ECUA. Contractor shall also include in any related subcontracts a requirement that subcontractors performing work or providing services for ECUA on its behalf register with and use the E-Verify system to verify the work authorization status of all new employees hired by the subcontractor while performing work or providing services for ECUA. Additionally, Contractor shall include in any related subcontracts a requirement that subcontractors performing work or providing services for ECUA on its behalf provide Contractor with an affidavit stating that the

RFQu 2026-24 Page 13 of 301 https://search.sunbiz.org/ subcontractor does not employ, contract with, or subcontract with any unauthorized alien as defined in 8 U.S.C. § 1324a(h)(3). Contractor shall maintain a copy of such affidavit for the duration of its contract with ECUA.

PART 2 - SCOPE OF WORK

Effluent Management System Consulting Services

2.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this Request for Qualifications (RFQu) is to identify and select a professional consulting firm to provide design / plans production, bidding / contract management assistance, and construction administration assistance, and certification / record drawing preparation for an Effluent Management System for the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority (ECUA) in Pensacola, Florida. The information provided in this RFQu outlines the scope of work, guidelines for the qualifications package preparation, selection procedure, and contract requirements for firms interested in providing services. This RFQu has been prepared and will be administered in accordance with Section 287.055, Florida Statutes (the Consultants' Competitive Negotiations Act).

2.2 DETAILED TECHNICAL AND EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS

Professional services to be furnished by the consultant (hereinafter may be referred to as contractor) will be of a general engineering and construction management nature. Conceptual plans with preliminary approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection are attached. An engineering report is also attached. The effluent management system will consist of eleven (11) infiltration wetland cells in addition to a back-up discharge to the Escambia River. Specific expertise should include, but may not be limited to, the design of effluent management systems similar to those in the conceptual plans. The consultant is also expected to have, as a part of their support team, the capability of providing supporting services such as electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, and geotechnical engineering, surveying, etc. and other similar fields necessary to augment the design of the effluent management system and supporting facilities.

2.2.0 SCOPE

A. Design Services:

1. Complete design of the Effluent Management System utilizing the conceptual plans as currently completed and having preliminary approval by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

2. Preparation of all drawings, specifications and other contract documents necessary for bidding the work described above.

3. Preparation, submission, and acquisition of all necessary permits needed for bid advertisement for the above work in accordance with appropriate laws, regulations, and rules.

4. Preparation of all necessary items for the selected contractor to be able to obtain building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and other necessary permits.

The items shall be in accordance with appropriate laws, regulations, and rules.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 14 of 301

5. Host pre-bid conferences.

6. Review of contract documents during bidding of projects.

7. Assistance with revisions or addenda to documents.

8. Review and recommendations concerning the acceptability of subcontractors, substitute materials and/or equipment.

9. Review of bids and recommendations for award of construction contracts.

B. Construction Services:

1. Coordination with the ECUA staff in the administration of construction contracts.

2. Review and approval of shop drawings for proposed construction work.

3. Preparation of change orders to construction contracts.

4. Site visits at appropriate intervals during construction.

5. Attend monthly progress meetings and provide a monthly written record of progress on the project

6. Inspection services.

7. Review and approval of samples and results of tests and inspections, and maintenance and operating instructions.

8. Determination of suitability of materials and equipment provided by contractors.

9. Contract administration services.

10. Review and recommendations related to payment requests.

11. Preparation of operation and maintenance manuals.

12. Certification of final construction as to acceptability.

13. Provision of services after construction such as inspections during and guarantee period and reporting observed discrepancies under warranties.

14. Preparation of As-Built drawings correctly reflecting the location of new facilities constructed, including underground utility locations.

2.2.1 Preparation of detailed technical specifications and plans for the effluent management system.

The prepared specifications and plans shall address, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

2.2.2 Identification of all applicable standards that must be adhered to in completing the work.

2.2.3 Specific site preparation requirements.

RFQu 2026-24 Page 15 of 301

2.2.4 Performance guarantees, warranties, and damages to be assessed for non-compliance.

2.2.5 Proper compliance with environmental and worker protection regulations as required by the scope of the work.

2.3 Bidding Services

The Engineer shall assist the OWNER in soliciting bids for the designed work. Such administration duties may also include the following during the bidding phase: attendance at Prebid conference (may be virtual conference call such as Zoom, etc.) and bid opening preparation of a bid tabulation form, issuance of any addenda, review of Contractor bid submittals, and recommendation of award.

2.4 Construction Phase Services

As requested by OWNER the Engineering firm shall perform Construction Phase Services which may include the following:

2.4.1 Contract administration duties during the course of the project will consist of: Review

Contractor's project submittals, conduct pre-construction conference, phone consultation, change order preparation, pay estimate review, mediation of Contractor disputes, observation of the work, conduct progress meetings, etc.

2.4.2 Conduct on-site observation of the work in process to assist the OWNER in determining if the work is proceeding in accordance with the contract documents, and furnish the OWNER a written report of the findings of each observation. The observation of the work may be periodic (as engineer thinks is needed) or full-time construction monitoring.

2.4.3 Report to OWNER whenever Engineer's representative observing the work believes that any work is unsatisfactory, defective, or does not conform to the contract documents, and advise OWNER if work that the technician believes should be corrected, rejected, uncovered for observation, or requires special testing, evaluation, or approval.

2.4.4 Color photographs of the work shall be taken and copies submitted to the OWNER on a regular basis to document the observation of the Engineer's field technician.

The photographs shall be mounted with captions adjacent to the photographs describing the Work and compliance/non-compliance with the specifications.

2.4.5 Report to OWNER when clarification and interpretations of the contract documents are needed and transmit to Contractor clarification and interpretation as issued by

OWNER.

2.4.6 As requested by the OWNER the Engineer's representative shall attend conferences

RFQu 2026-24 Page 16 of 301 with the OWNER or other interested parties at the time of detailed coating observations. Accompany visiting inspectors representing public or other agencies having jurisdiction over the project, record the results of these site visits and report to the OWNER.

2.4.7 Conduct a final observation in the company of the Contractor and prepare a final list of items to be completed or corrected.

2.4.8 Observe that all items on the final list have been completed or corrected and make recommendation to OWNER concerning acceptance.

2.4.9 Available Information:

Information available from the OWNER shall include:

A. Original plans, specifications, and drawings, including documentation of original coatings B. Land use/development plans C. Any severe budget restraints

2.4.10 Evaluation:

Proposals shall be evaluated and a contract awarded as provided in (local and state purchase requirements). The following evaluation criteria shall apply:

A. Qualifications B. Experience C. Proposal Preparation D. Project - Scope of Work Understanding E. Schedule F. References

PART 3 - QUALIFICATIONS PACKAGE REQUIREMENTS

3.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A. Submittal of Qualifications Packages

Qualifications packages shall be submitted to:

Purchasing Division Emerald Coast Utilities Authority 9255 Sturdevant Street Pensacola, Florida 32514

Qualifications packages shall be received no later than 10:00 am CT, September 24, 2026. The qualifications package shall contain two original, and one electronic copy (USB flash drive) and be clearly marked with the following label:

RFQu 2026-24 Page 17 of 301

QUALIFICATIONS FOR EFFLUENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

CONSULTING SERVICES

(DATE SUBMITTED)

The submitter shall be responsible for ensuring their qualifications package is received prior to the deadline. No extenuating circumstances will be recognized.

3.2 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A. Engineering services shall be provided only by organizations or individuals who are properly qualified to perform work on effluent management systems. Only those organizations which have at least one principal who is a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Florida pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 471, Florida Statutes, specializing in design, specification, and evaluation services and having at least ten years’ experience in the design and evaluation of effluent management systems shall be considered.

B. Firms must be able to meet the insurance requirements outlined in the enclosed "ECUA Risk Management Policy and Standards for Agreements, Contracts and Leases."

C. A person or affiliate of a firm responding to this RFQu who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following conviction for a public entity crime may not submit a bid on a contract to provide any goods or services to a public entity, may not submit a bid on a contract with a public entity for construction or repair of a public building or public work, may not submit bids on leases of real property to a public entity, and may not transact business with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in s. 287.017 for CATEGORY TWO for a period of 36 months from the date of being placed on the convicted vendor list.

3.3 QUALIFICATIONS PACKAGE FORMAT

Qualifications packages shall be limited to thirty (30) pages (double sided and page count does not include the required Exhibits) and be clear, concise and organized in a manner that will facilitate review and evaluation. Ornamental bindings and promotional material within the RFQu are not necessary or desired. Qualifications packages should include the following information in the general order shown:

A. Letter of Transmittal - signed by a company official with the power to bind the company in its qualifications package.

B. Introduction to the Firm - may include a brief history, current size, organizational structure, office location(s), etc.

C. Understanding of Proposed Services - a brief narrative outlining the firm's understanding of the kinds and types of projects which may be encountered within the context of the proposed contract.

D. Typical Work Plan - an outline of the project team's approach in the planning, RFQu 2026-24 Page 18 of 301 design, permitting, and other key elements of a typical project. Emphasis should be placed on water distribution and wastewater collection systems planning, design, and construction phase services.

E. Project Team - a description and/or organizational chart of the project team proposed for typical projects under this contract. Key personnel and subconsultants should be identified and information provided concerning education, registration(s), professional experience, etc.

F. Representative Projects List G. Representative Client List H. Firm Credentials - copy of current, valid Florida corporation license to practice professional engineering.

I. Insurance - include a copy of your "Insurance Certificate(s)" per the requirements in the "ECUA Risk Management Policy and Standards for Agreements, Contracts, and Leases" (General Liability, Automobile, Workers' Compensation and Professional Liability), and a statement, if necessary, concerning any exceptions taken to insurance minimums.

J. Theoretical Schedule of Events – Estimated project timeline including major project tasks and estimated start and finish dates for each task with theoretical start date of January 1, 2027

3.4 USE OF SUBCONSULTANTS

Qualifications packages should clearly indicate the firm's principal staff responsible for various categories of services and which, if any, of the following categories of services may involve the use of subconsultants in a lead role. Any subconsultants so noted must be clearly indicated and all appropriate information included in the Project Team sections of the RFQu:

A. Stormwater Modeling B. Electrical Systems Analysis & Design C. Mechanical Systems Analysis & Design D. Instrumentation & Control Systems E. Geotechnical Engineering Services F. Structural Engineering Services Planning Services G. Architectural Services

3.5 Joint Venture

Given the nature of the anticipated scope of most general e f f l u e n t m a n a g e m e n t s y s t e m s , qualifications packages submitted as a joint venture consisting of two or more firms are not desired.

PART 4 - SELECTION PROCEDURE

4.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

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Qualifications packages will be reviewed for compliance with minimum qualifications. Any firm unable to meet the minimum qualifications outlined in this RFQu will not be recommended.

4.2 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

ECUA may make inquiries and request additional information on an individual basis to discuss the RFQu responses, obtain supplemental information, and answer any questions in order to adequately evaluate all qualifications packages. These inquiries may be in writing, via telephone, e-mail, FAX, or in person. Although ECUA does not anticipate requiring any presentations at the present time, it may require them, if necessary. Any such presentations or inquiries in person will take place at ECUA's offices in Pensacola, Florida.

4.3 EVALUATION AND SELECTION

An Evaluation Team consisting of ECUA staff members appointed by ECUA's Executive Director will evaluate all qualifications packages. The Evaluation Team will then forward all qualifications packages to the Executive Director along with its comments. Thereafter, the Executive Director shall consider all qualifications packages and make a recommendation to the ECUA Board for action.

Criteria to be used in the evaluation process include, but are not limited to or in the priority of, the following:

A. Adequacy and professional qualifications of the consultant's personnel B. General qualifications and experience of the firm C. Specific capabilities and professional qualifications of the firm D. Organization of the proposed Project Team as outlined in the qualifications package E. Relevant experience F. Understanding of the scope of work and the ability to work cooperatively with

ECUA staff G. Ability to respond to ECUA's needs with qualified personnel in a timely manner H. Past record of firm

4.4 ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

The procurement of services under this RFQu is governed by the Consultants Competitive Negotiation Act (Florida Statute 287.055). Under this Act, the Florida Legislature mandates that ECUA consider whether the firm is a certified minority business enterprise. This consideration applies also to the proposed subconsultants.

This factor shall be a consideration in evaluating the submissions as well as any other factors determined by ECUA to be applicable to its particular requirements. ECUA will endeavor to meet the minority business enterprise procurement goals.

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PART 5 - CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS

The ECUA will attempt to negotiate a fee in accordance with the CCNA. Rate schedules will be addressed in the initial negotiations with a selected firm; however, it is anticipated that this project will be contracted on the basis of a lump sum fee. If ECUA cannot reach agreement with the first selected firm for this project, it may then enter negotiations with the next selected firm.

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RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY AND STANDARDS

FOR AGREEMENTS, CONTRACTS AND LEASES

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply to these Risk Management Provisions:

Contract - The contract or agreement of which these Risk Management Provisions are a part for the construction, alteration, repair, or demolition of a structure or facility.

Organization - The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority, an independent special district created by the Laws of the State of Florida, its Board, officers, employees, volunteers, representatives, and agents.

Other Party - The other party to the Contract of which these Risk Management Provisions are a part, any subsidiaries or affiliates, officers, employees, volunteers, representatives, agents, contractors, and subcontractors.

HOLD HARMLESS

The Other Party agrees to hold the Organization and the members of its governing board and its other officers and employees harmless against all claims for bodily injury, sickness, disease, death, personal injury, or damage to property or loss of use resulting therefrom, arising out of or related to the Contract, to the extent such claims are caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongful misconduct of the Other Party and persons or entities employed or utilized by the Other Party in the performance of the Contract.

PAYMENT ON BEHALF OF ORGANIZATION

The Other Party agrees to pay on behalf of the Organization all claims described in the above "Hold Harmless" paragraph, and to pay the reasonable costs and fees of the attorneys selected by the Organization, at trial and on appeal, to defend the Organization and its officers and employees against such claims. Provided, however, that the total liability of the Other Party to the Organization under the above "Hold Harmless" paragraph and this "Payment on Behalf of Organization" paragraph shall not exceed the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per claim or occurrence.

Such payment on behalf of the Organization shall be in addition to any and all other legal remedies available to the Organization and shall not be considered to the exclusive remedy of the Organization.

LOSS CONTROLS/SAFETY

Precaution shall be exercised at all times by the Other Party for the protection of all persons, RFQu 2026-24 Page 22 of 301 including employees, and property. The Other Party shall comply with all laws, regulations, or ordinances relating to safety and health, and shall make special effort to detect hazardous conditions and shall take prompt action where loss control/safety measures should reasonably be expected.

The Organization may order work to be stopped if conditions exist that present immediate danger to persons or property. The Other party acknowledges that such stoppage will not shift responsibility for any loss or damages from the Other Party to the Organization.

SEVERABILITY

The provisions of these Risk Management Provisions are severable. In the event a court of competent jurisdiction should declare any provision of these Risk Management Provisions to be void or contrary to public policy such provision shall be stricken from these Risk Management Provisions, and the remaining provisions shall be enforced as though the provision determined to be void or contrary to public policy had not been included herein.

INSURANCE - BASIC COVERAGES REQUIRED

The Other Party shall procure and maintain the following described insurance, except for coverages specifically waived by the Organization, on policies and with insurers acceptable to the Organization. These insurers shall have A.M. Best (or equivalent) rating of no less than A:VII unless otherwise agreed to by the Organization.

These insurance requirements shall not limit the liability of the Other Party. The Organization does not represent these types or amounts of insurance to be sufficient or adequate to protect the Other Party’s interests or liabilities but are merely minimums.

Except for workers compensation, the Other Party waives its right of recovery against the Organization, to the extent permitted by its insurance policies.

The Other Party’s deductibles/self-insured retentions shall be disclosed to the Organization and may be disapproved by the Organization. They shall be reduced or eliminated at the option of the Organization. The Other Party is responsible for the amount of any deductible or self-insured retention.

Insurance required of the Other Party, or any other insurance of the Other Party shall be considered primary, and insurance of the Organization, if any, shall be considered excess, as may be applicable to claims which arise out of the Hold Harmless, Payment on Behalf of Organization, Insurance, Certificates of Insurance and any Additional Insurance provisions of this agreement, contract or lease.

Additional Insured

Except for workers compensation and professional liability, the Other Party’s insurance policies shall be endorsed to name the Organization as an additional insured for "bodily injury", "property damage" or "personal and advertising injury" caused, in whole or in part, by the Other Party’s acts or omissions; or the acts or omissions of those acting on the Other Party’s behalf; in the performance

RFQu 2026-24 Page 23 of 301 of the Other Party’s ongoing operations for the Organization. The preferred Commercial General Liability coverage endorsement is ISO Form CG 20 10.

Workers Compensation Coverage

The Other Party shall purchase and maintain workers compensation insurance for all workers compensation obligations imposed by state law and employer’s liability limits of at least $100,000 each accident and $100,000 each employee/$500,000 policy limit for disease.

The Other Party shall also purchase any other coverages required by law for the benefit of employees.

General, Automobile and Excess or Umbrella Liability Coverage

The Other Party shall purchase and maintain coverage on forms no more restrictive than the latest editions of the Commercial General Liability and Business Auto policies of the Insurance Services Office.

Minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence for all liability must be provided, with excess or umbrella insurance making up the difference, if any, between the policy limits of underlying policies (including employers liability required in the Workers Compensation Coverage section) and the total amount of coverage required.

Commercial General Liability Coverage - Occurrence Form Required

Coverage A shall include bodily injury and property damage liability for premises, operations, products and completed operations, independent contractors, contractual liability covering this agreement, contract or lease, broad form property damage, and property damage resulting from explosion, collapse or underground (x,c,u) exposures.

Coverage B shall include personal injury.

Coverage C, medical payments, is not required.

The Other Party is required to continue to purchase products and completed operations coverage, at least to satisfy this agreement, contract or lease, for a minimum of three years beyond the Organization’s acceptance of renovation or construction projects.

Business Auto Liability Coverage

Business Auto Liability coverage is to include bodily injury and property damage arising out of ownership, maintenance or use of any auto, including owned, non-owned and hired automobiles and employee non-ownership use.

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Excess or Umbrella Liability Coverage

Umbrella Liability insurance is preferred, but an Excess Liability equivalent may be allowed.

Whichever type of coverage is provided, it should be at least “following form” and shall not be more restrictive than the underlying insurance policy coverages.

EVIDENCE/CERTIFICATES OF INSURANCE

Required insurance shall be documented in Certificates of Insurance, including indication that the policy(s) is endorsed to provide the Organization at least 30 days in advance notice of cancellation, nonrenewal or adverse change.

New Certificates of Insurance are to be provided to the Organization at least 15 days prior to coverage renewals.

If requested by the Organization, the Other Party shall furnish complete copies of the Other Party’s…