RFQ_26-096_Solicitation_Complete.pdf

FAIN: GNSSP25FL0068-01-00

For more information, please visit our online supplier portal, located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Project #: RFQ 26-096

RFQ 26-096 DESIGN & PERMITTING FOR INSHORE ARTIFICIAL REEF PROJECT

Bid Due Date: Tuesday, August 4, 2026 @ 2:00 pm

Pursuant to the RESTORE Act Spill Impact Component, Florida State Expenditure Plan (FSEP), Project No. 13-5.

Federal Awarding Agency: Gulf Ecosystem Restoration Council

Federal Award Identification Number (FAIN): GNSSP25FL0068-01-00

Pass-Through Entity: The Gulf Consortium

Subrecipient: Citrus County, Florida (“County”)

CITRUS COUNTY, FLORIDA

A political subdivision of the State of Florida

Department of Management & Budget 3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 266

Lecanto, FL 34461

For more information, please visit our online supplier portal, located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl

Issue Request for Qualifications July 3, 2026

Deadline for Questions July 27, 2026, 4:00pm

Response submittal Due Date and Time August 4, 2026, 2:00pm

Public Opening Date and Time via Microsoft Teams (Non-Mandatory)

August 4, 2026, 2:15pm

Microsoft TEAMS meeting Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28736793416278 5?p=VH7wa67iLhxpA27WZr Meeting ID: 287 367 934 162 785 Passcode: ZT9CT7xV

Public Tally of Scores (Subject to Change) (Non-Mandatory)

September 9, 2026, 10:00am

Microsoft Teams Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/24554617609115 5?p=F8RPyzK3AcrlxgUTMO Meeting ID: 245 546 176 091 155 Passcode: Jb962wR6

Board Approval of Selection and Award (subject to change)

January 5, 2027

CITRUS COUNTY, FLORIDA

A political subdivision of the State of Florida

Department of Management & Budget

Lecanto, FL 34461

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. DEFINITIONS

2. Instructions to Respondents

3. Minimum Requirements

4. Response Format

5. Procurement Information

6. Evaluation of Responses

7. Award of Agreement

8. Term of Agreement

9. Contents of RFQ

10. Additional Information

11. MINIMUM INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

12. RESPONDENT RESPONSES

13. EXHIBITS

Attachments:

A - Attachment A Feasibility Study

B - Scope of Work

C - FloridaSEP_FINAL-web-FSEP 13.5

D - Subrecipient (Grant) Agreement No. 250068135.01 and Exhibits

E - Appendix II to Part 200_ Title 2 (up to date as of 6-30-2026)

F - Attachment_C_Truth_in_Negotiations_Cert

G - Wage Determination FL20260002 (Davis-Bacon)

H - Wage Determination FL20260100 (Davis-Bacon)

I - Wage Determination FL20260140 (Davis-Bacon)

J - RFQ 26-096 Sample Agreement Final

1. DEFINITIONS

Addenda: A written or graphic instrument issued by County prior to the execution of the Agreement which modifies or interprets the Request for Qualifications by additions, deletions, clarifications, corrections or other type of modifications. Addenda will become part of the Contract Documents when the Agreement is executed.

Agency: means the state, a state agency, a municipality, a political subdivision, a school district, or a school board. The term “agency” does not extend to a nongovernmental developer that contributes public facilities to a political subdivision under s. 380.06 or ss. 163.3220-163.3243.

Agreement: A legal document, executed by County and Successful Respondent, which supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, or agreements, either written or oral. The Agreement, as amended from time to time, forms the Contract between County and the Successful Respondent setting forth the roles, responsibilities and obligations of the parties including, but not limited to, the performance of the Services and the basis of payment.

Consultant: means Successful Respondent, in the context of the Request for Qualifications. In the context of the Contract Documents, Consultant means any company, firm, partnership, corporation, association, joint venture, or other legal entity permitted by law to perform the Services in the State of Florida. Such legal entity shall be the entity that enters into a written Agreement with County to perform the Services required under any Work Authorization assignment. Consultant will have sole responsibility for the performance of the Services covered under a Master Agreement and Work Authorization Assignment that is awarded in conjunction with this Request for Qualifications.

Contract Documents: Request for Qualifications, including Addenda to such, the Agreement, Terms and Conditions, Special Terms and Conditions, Respondent’s Response, Scope of Services, Certificate(s) of Insurance, Notice to Proceed, Notice of Award, Drawings and Specifications, Affidavit/Signature Page, References, and any other documents mailed or otherwise transmitted to Respondent prior to or after the submittal of their Response (including documentation mailed or otherwise transmitted by Respondent prior to or after the Notice of Award), negotiation agreements and documentation, and any Amendments to the Agreement, as may be issued from time to time, which are all to be treated as one in the form of the Contract Documents.

County: Citrus County, Florida, a political subdivision of the State of Florida, its officers, agents, employees and volunteers.

Governmental Entity: A political subdivision or agency of this state or of any state of the United States, including, but not limited to, state government, county, municipality, school district, nonprofit public university or college, single purpose or multipurpose special district, single-purpose special or multipurpose authority, metropolitan or consolidated government, separate legal entity or administrative entity, or any agency of the Federal Government.

Individual Scorers: County employees selected to score the Responses and Oral Presentation (if applicable) and recommend to the Board the Successful Respondent(s) for an award.

Minor Irregularity: A variation from the Request for Qualifications terms and conditions which does not affect the price or give Respondent an advantage or benefit not enjoyed by the other Respondents or does not adversely impact the interests of County.

Notice of Award: A written notice submitted by County notifying the Successful Respondent that they have been awarded the project.

Notice of Intent to Award: A verbal or written notice submitted by County notifying the Successful Respondent that County intends to award the project to them contingent upon the Successful Respondent executing the Agreement and submitting any outstanding documents.

Piggyback: A government authority other than County purchasing commodities from the Successful Respondent(s) under the same terms and conditions that the Successful Respondent(s) has agreed to offer County.

Professional Services: means those services within the scope of the practice of architecture, professional engineering, landscape architecture, or registered surveying and mapping, as defined by the laws of the state, or those performed by any architect, professional engineer, landscape architect, or registered surveyor and mapper in connection with his or her professional employment or practice.

Public Opening: Opening of the Responses and the announcing of Respondents who submitted a Response in response to the Request for Qualifications in the presence of the public.

Recommendation of Award: A written notification sent by way of facsimile or electronic e-mail to those who submitted a Response in response to this Request for Qualifications advising them of County's decision for its selection of the Successful Respondent(s) and its intent to award to that Respondent.

Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Contents of this solicitation and all supporting documents including Addendum to such, or other related information transmitted to potential Respondents.

Respondent: Entity that submits a Response to County in response to the Request for Qualifications.

Response: Means the response to the Request for Qualifications submitted by Respondent.

Responsible Respondent: An entity who submits a Response who shows that they have the capability in all respects to perform fully the Services outlined in the Request for Qualifications, and the integrity and reliability that will assure good faith performance.

Responsive: A Response that conforms in all material respects to the Request for Qualifications requirements.

Services: Scope of Services as noted in this Request for Qualifications.

Subconsultant: Any person, firm, partnership, corporation, association or other organization, or a combination of any of them that has a direct contract with Successful Respondent to perform a portion of the services awarded under a professional service contract.

Successful Respondent: Most responsive and responsible Respondent with the highest final score to whom County (on the basis of County’s evaluation as hereinafter provided) selects to make an award.

Timeline: List of critical dates and actions involved in the Request for Qualifications.

2. Instructions to Respondents

2.1. Instructions

INSTRUCTIONS

ALL RESPONSES SHALL BE RECEIVED ELECTRONICALLY VIA THE OPENGOV WEBSITE ON OR BEFORE 2:00 PM EST Tuesday, August 4, 2026. SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED ELECTRONICALLY AT https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl/projects/241388.

RESPONSES WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED AND CANNOT BE ENTERED ONLINE AFTER THE ABOVE REFERENCED

DATE AND TIME.

RESPONSES WILL BE OPENED, READ AND RECORDED PURSUANT TO FLORIDA LAW AND COUNTY

ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS.

All RFQs will be publicly opened via a Microsoft Teams Meeting.

RFQ PROCESS: DATE:

Issue RFQ Package July 3, 2026

Deadline for receipt of written questions July 27, 2026, at 4:00 P.M.

Response due date August 4, 2026, at 2:00 P.M.

Public Response Opening August 4, 2026, at 2:15 P.M.

Public Tally of Scores September 9, 2026, at 10:00 A.M.

Effective Date of Contract (Tentative date) January 5, 2027

INQUIRIES/INTERPRETATIONS: All Respondents shall carefully examine the RFQ documents. Any ambiguities or inconsistencies shall be brought to the attention of the County prior to the due date. Failure to do so on the part of the Respondent will constitute an acceptance by the Respondent of any subsequent decision. Any questions concerning the intent, meaning, and interpretations of the RFQ documents including the attached draft agreement, shall be requested in writing via the Questions & Answers section of this solicitation by 4:00 P.M., July 27, 2026. The County shall not be responsible for any oral instructions, interpretations, or statements made by County employees regarding this RFQ, and only written addenda issued by the County shall be considered binding.

2.2. Solicitation Overview

Citrus County, Florida (“County”) is requesting qualified Engineering firms to submit a statement of qualifications for an ecologically engineered design of habitat modules for the construction of up to ten (10) inshore artificial reefs within County coastal waters to promote ecological enhancement, recreational opportunity, and economic benefit. A feasibility study was prepared on August 10, 2023 (Attachment A) to evaluate the existing conditions located in the proposed location of the Inshore Artificial Reefs.

Key tasks for this project are:

1. Design and provide a GIS footprint as well as marine engineering, environmental, and related services for construction of up to ten (10) inshore artificial reef sites

2. Obtain permitting approvals from federal and state agencies for the construction of the inshore artificial reefs, and

3. If required, develop a long-term monitoring plan to ensure compliance with environmental and navigational safety regulations.

2.3. Background

Citrus County, Florida has received grant funding for this project through the RESTORE Act Spill Impact Component from the Gulf Ecosystem Restoration Council, administered through The Gulf Consortium, under Federal Award Identification Number (FAIN) GNSSP25FL0068-01-00. Citrus County's Subrecipient Agreement No. 250068135.01 is attached in the Exhibits section.

In July 2012, the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act (RESTORE Act), Subtitle F of Public Law 112-141, established the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (Council). The RESTORE Act dedicates 80 percent of all Clean Water Act administrative and civil penalties related to the Deepwater Horizon spill to a Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund (Trust Fund) and outlines a structure by which the funds can be utilized to restore and protect the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches, coastal wetlands, and economy of the Gulf Coast region. The U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) is responsible for issuing compliance and auditing procedures for the entire Act and procedures for two grant programs administered by Treasury.

The site for the Inshore Artificial Reef lies wholly within the Gulf of America, located within a 15-mile boundary from shore within the extended limits of Citrus County. The feasibility study (Attachment A) has identified twenty (20) potential inshore reef sites, of which, eleven (11) sites were deemed suitable, and three (3) sites were deemed potentially suitable.

2.4. Federal Requirements and Grant Provisions

The Successful Respondent and its subconsultants/subcontractors shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, executive orders, grant requirements, policies, procedures, and directives applicable to this Federal award, including but not limited to the RESTORE Act, the Gulf Consortium Subrecipient Agreement and associated Federal Provisions (attached in the Exhibits), and the Gulf Consortium Subrecipient Policy (available at the link provided below).

Gulf Consortium Subrecipient Policy: www.gulfconsortium.org

3. Minimum Requirements

Minimum Requirements for Submitting a Response

Respondents shall demonstrate in their Response that they meet the following minimum requirements. If any Respondent is found not to meet these requirements, their Response will be rejected.

• Firms shall be registered with the State of Florida (Sunbiz) to conduct business in the State. Division of Corporations

- Florida Department of State

• Firms must have an active registration in SAM.gov, https://sam.gov/

• Respondent must completely answer all questions and submit all documentation required in section

12, RESPONDENT RESPONSES

• Respondent must submit a response in the format as described in Section 4, Response Format, Question #24.

4. Response Format

To aid in the evaluation of each Response, Respondents shall provide the following information in the format as noted. This information will be used as the foundation for scoring the Responses. Following directions is essential.

Please upload your complete Response, in the RESPONDENT RESPONSES section. (Question #24)

Tab 1) Title Page

Provide the RFQ # and title, the Company’s name; the name, address, telephone number and email address of the contact person; and the date of the proposal.

Tab 2) Letter of Transmittal

A transmittal letter must be provided briefly stating the Respondent’s understanding of the Work to be provided, a statement why the Respondent believes they are the best qualified to perform the Work and a statement that the Qualifications Statement submitted is a contractual obligation and irrevocable offer until such time as County awards a contract as a result of this RFQ.

The transmittal letter must be signed by a duly authorized officer(s) of Respondent’s Company, as registered with the Florida Secretary of State through the Division of Corporations website at: www.sunbiz.org. Respondent must provide a copy of Company’s Sunbiz following the transmittal letter in order to verify the duly authorized officers. If such an officer is not listed in Sunbiz for Respondent, Respondent must provide a legal document, such as a Certificate of Resolution, stating that the officer is authorized to execute all documents on behalf of the Respondent.

Table of Contents for the Following Sections:

Tab 3) Experience and Qualifications of the Company (30 Points Maximum)

Respondents are to submit qualifications of the Company showing evidence of relevant experience within the last five (5) years.

List a minimum of three (3) Projects comparable in size and scope as described in this Request for Qualifications.

Confidential projects shall not be included. Respondents using joint ventures should include former clients of the venture. Information about each client should be provided in the following format:

• Project/Event Title

• Respondent name, address, and telephone number

• Contact person, email address and telephone number

• Location of project (if different than above)

• Project term

• Performance period

• Approximate fee for Work

• Adherence to Budget

• Brief description of project

Respondents are to advise as to whether their company has filed for bankruptcy, is currently in bankruptcy, or has bankruptcy action pending. Please note that County may require additional detailed financial information from the top ranked Respondent as part of its scoring process.

Respondents are to provide a list of any past or pending litigation or disputes that they currently have or had with other clients within the last five (5) years. Respondents are to provide information as to the nature of the litigation or dispute.

Tab 4) Project Team and Resumes (20 points maximum)

Respondents are to describe your team’s knowledge and experience related to Local, State, and Federal regulations, codes, and ordinances specific to the Work required herein. Respondents shall include the qualifications of any critical in-house personnel, sub-consultants, or sub-contractors that will be involved in providing the required Work.

Respondents are to identify the individuals that will be assigned to provide the Work outlined in the Request for Qualifications.

1. Include resumes of each individual that will be assigned to this project.

2. Include a list of projects the individuals have worked on or are currently working on that are related to the Work for this project.

3. Include copies of each individual’s professional license and/or certifications.

Respondents are to provide an organizational chart of personnel within their firm to be assigned to provide the Work.

Tab 5) Project Approach (35 points maximum)

Respondents shall provide a narrative demonstrating their understanding of the Scope of Work and their proposed approach to successfully completing the project. At a minimum, the narrative should address the following:

• Understanding of the project objectives and key deliverables.

• Proposed methodology for completing the required engineering, design, permitting, and related professional services.

• Approach to obtaining all required permits and coordinating with applicable federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.

• Project management approach, including communication with County staff, quality assurance procedures, and document review processes.

• Identification of anticipated project challenges or risks and the proposed strategies to mitigate or resolve them.

• Proposed schedule and sequencing of major project tasks and milestones necessary to meet the project timeline.

• Innovative or value-added approaches that may improve project efficiency, reduce risk, or enhance project outcomes.

Respondents should explain the rationale supporting their proposed approach and identify any assumptions that may affect successful completion of the Work.

Tab 6) References (10 points maximum)

Respondents shall provide a minimum of three (3) references, with at least one (1) reference for each project identified under Tab #3 – Experience and Qualifications of the Firm. Reference letters are not required.

Each reference shall include the client's name, organization, contact person, mailing address, telephone number, email address, and a brief description of the services provided.

Tab 7) Required Documents (5 points maximum)

Forms are located in the RESPONDENT RESPONSES section.

a. Certification for Disclosure of Lobbying Activities on Federal Aid Contracts,

b. Non-Collusion/Lobbying Activities Certification,

c. Conflict of Interest Form,

d. Drug-Free Workplace Certification,

e. Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and other Responsibility Matters Primary Covered Transactions,

f. Vendor Certification Regarding Scrutinized Companies Lists,

g. Copy of the current Certificate of Insurance. (Proof of insurance).

h. Human Trafficking Affidavit

i. Sunbiz.org Registration (Proof of an active registration), and

j. SAM.gov Registration (Proof of an active registration)

5. Procurement Information

Respondents are encouraged to carefully review all the materials contained herein and prepare their Response accordingly. The detailed requirements set forth in section 4, Response Format will be used to evaluate the Responses and failure of Respondent to provide the information requested for a specific requirement may render their Response as non-responsive and result in being rejected. Failure of Respondent to comply with all terms of this Solicitation may result in disqualification of Respondent and rejection of Respondent’s proposal by County.

County shall not be liable for any costs incurred by a Respondent in preparing or producing its Response or for any service provided before execution of an Agreement.

All terms and conditions outlined in this Solicitation and any associated Addenda, shall become a part of the Agreement entered into between County and the Successful Respondent.

5.1. Vendor System-OpenGov Registration

County has partnered with OpenGov Procurement, a web-based eProcurement service. Current bid solicitations and associated addenda, notices of recommended bid award, and current bid awards will be posted at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl.

Bid Notifications will be sent electronically via e-mail from OpenGov to registered Bidders. It is the sole responsibility of interested parties to monitor OpenGov for solicitation opportunities and updates.

Visit https://procurement.opengov.com/signup to register. OpenGov is an online Bidder registration system that provides a free, at no cost to Bidder, secure, user-friendly Internet portal and one-stop service center to register with County. This system also allows you to receive automatic email notifications regarding County’s upcoming competitive solicitations as opportunities become available. Registration assistance is available by e-mail procurement-support@opengov.com.

All Citrus County Vendors/Contractors/Consultants will need to register with OpenGov in order to be able to submit Bids/Proposals/Qualifications etc., to County.

OpenGov Procurement has no affiliation with the County other than as a service that facilitates communication between the County and its Bidder. OpenGov Procurement is an independent entity and is not an agent or representative of the County.

5.2. Contact Person

All inquiries pertaining to this Request for Qualifications are to be directed to all:

Department of Management & Budget, Purchasing Division

Lecanto, Florida, 34461

Phone: 352-527-5457

Fax: 352-527-5424

Linda Morse, Purchasing & Contracts Manager, linda.morse@citruscounty.gov

Kathleen Milianta, Purchasing & Contracts Specialist, kathy.milianta@citruscounty.gov

Leigha Utter, Purchasing & Contracts Specialist, leigha.utter@citruscounty.gov

Saleem Mahmood, Purchasing Assistant, saleem.mahmood@citruscounty.gov

CAUTION

PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS: In accordance with section 287.057 (25), Florida Statutes, Respondents to this solicitation, or persons acting on their behalf, may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the agency posting the notice of intended award, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays, any employee or officer of the County concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the Contact Person noted above. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response to this solicitation.

5.3. Questions/Additional Terms and Conditions/Variances/Exceptions

Respondents may submit questions about the meaning or intent of the Request for Qualifications or Agreement to the website link:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl/projects/241388 in written format only and shall submit such on or before the deadline for questions listed in the Event Timeline. Interpretations or clarifications considered necessary in response to such questions will be issued by a written Addendum. Only questions answered by formal written Addendum will be binding. Oral and other interpretations or clarifications will be without legal effect. Questions submitted shall not constitute formal protest of the specifications or of this Request for Qualifications.

A written addendum, if applicable, will be issued online to OpenGov (https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl) and/or DemandStar® websites in response to questions received as of the specified the deadline in the Event Timeline.

Issues regarding any and all discrepancies, errors, or ambiguities in the Request for Qualifications documents, including those noted in the Agreement shall be submitted in writing to https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl on or before the deadline for questions which is listed in the Event Timeline.

5.4. Event Timeline

Respondents should review and become familiar with the Event Timeline. The dates and times of each activity within the Timeline may be subject to change. It is the responsibility of Respondent to check for any changes. All changes to the Timeline will be made through an addendum to this Request for Qualifications.

If you are hearing or speech impaired, dial 7-1-1 or (800) 955-8771 (TTY) or (800) 955-8770 (v), via Florida Relay Service.

If you need a Spanish Translator, dial 7-1-1 or (800) 955-8771 (TTY) or (800) 955-8773 (v), via Florida Relay Service. For all other languages, please contact Human Resources at (352) 527-5370.

Si usted necesita un Traductor en Español, marque 7-1-1 o (800) 955-8771 (TTY) o (800) 955-8773 (v), a través del Servicio de Retransmisión de Florida.

**All public Meetings are subject to change or can be canceled.

Issue Request for Qualifications: July 3, 2026

Deadline for Questions: July 27, 2026, 4:00pm

Response submittal Due Date and Time: August 4, 2026, 2:00pm

Public Opening Date and Time via Microsoft Teams:

August 4, 2026, 2:15pm

Public Tally of Scores September 9, 2026, 10:00am

Oral Presentations (if applicable) TBD (if applicable)

Board Approval of Selection and Award (subject to change):

January 5, 2027

5.5. Solicitations or Awards in Violation of Law

If, prior to contract award, it is determined that this Solicitation or proposed contract award is in violation of law, then this Solicitation or contract award shall be cancelled, or revised to comply with the law.

If, after an award of a contract, it is determined that this Solicitation or contract award is in violation of law, then the awarded contract may be ratified and affirmed, provided it is determined that doing so is in the best interest of County, or the contract may be terminated.

5.6. Public Opening of Responses

Electronic Responses shall be opened on August 4, 2026, at 2:15 PM. Since qualifications will be evaluated in determining an award, the only information conveyed at the Public Opening will be the names of Respondents.

Public Opening shall be via a recorded, online “Microsoft Teams” meeting, use link listed below:

Microsoft Teams Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/287367934162785?p=VH7wa67iLhxpA27WZr Meeting ID: 287 367 934 162 785 Passcode: ZT9CT7xV

5.7. Submission of Responses

Electronic Response submittals for this Request for Qualifications are to be submitted on or before August 4, 2026, at 2:00

pm. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to ensure that their Response is submitted through OpenGov Procurement no later than the time and date specified in the Solicitation or subsequent addenda. RESPONDENTS MUST

COMPLETE THE INFORMATION REQUESTED IN THE RESPONDENT RESPONSES SECTION.

Responses shall be submitted through the online solicitation management portal, https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/citrusfl. You may enter information and/or upload completed forms/documents using the OpenGov portal. Respondents must have registered and received an established account in advance of uploading submissions. When submitting an offer electronically through the solicitation posting portal, please allow sufficient time to complete the online forms and upload documents. The solicitation offer will end at the closing time listed in the Event Timeline included in this Solicitation. If you are in the middle of uploading your documents at the closing time, the system will stop the process, and your Response will not be received by the system. It is recommended that the submission process be completed the day prior to the due date, with the knowledge that any changes/updates will be accepted up to the due date and time. If technical difficulties arise during submission of the Solicitation submittal, it is the submitting Respondent’s responsibility to contact OpenGov Procurement technical support. For support, click on the “Help” link on the Solicitation Posting portal; or email procurement-support@opengov.com.

NOTE: In the event, there is a verified technical issue with the Platform (and not user/Respondent issues) that prevents all Respondents from submitting a Response within the two (2) hours immediately before the due time, the County may issue an addendum to extend the solicitation due date and time. However, the technical issue must be a result of the Platform provider (OpenGov Procurement) and affect all participating Respondents. The County shall verify the technical issue or unavailability of the Platform with OpenGov Procurement, and the system provider. Technical issues localized to a single Respondent will not be considered cause for an extension. County shall not be responsible for delays caused in any occurrence.

5.8. Joint Ventures

Two or more agencies may submit a Response under a joint venture arrangement. Joint ventures shall be considered as a single entity in the evaluation of a Response. That is, the traits of individual agencies shall be blended in arriving at an overall Response evaluation score and oral interview score for the joint venture.

An agency, that submits a Response under a joint venture arrangement may satisfy the technical certification requirements outlined in this Solicitation as the prime Respondent through one or more of the agencies comprising the Joint Venture. The Joint Venture shall at a minimum comply with the following additional requirements:

1) The Joint Venture shall, in its own name, be registered with the State of Florida Division of Corporations prior to submittal of a Proposal.

2) Each individual Agency comprising the Joint Venture shall, in its own name, be qualified in their respective areas of expertise prior to submittal of a Response.

Full compliance with the requirements set forth above is required, as well as properly documented compliance with any other certification and additional requirements set forth in the Solicitation.

5.9. Timeliness of Response Submittal

County assumes no responsibility for a Response received after the due date and time. There will be no exceptions to this policy. It is the responsibility of Respondent to make sure their response is uploaded by the due date and time listed in the Event Timeline to the OpenGov portal.

5.10. Modification / Withdraw of Response

Respondents have the right to modify or withdraw their Response without cause or without liability whatsoever at any time prior to the stipulated submittal date and time. Such requests must be made to County in writing.

Modified or withdrawn Responses may be resubmitted, in accordance with the instructions in this Solicitation prior to the stipulated submittal date and time.

5.11. Less Than Two Responses Received

If less than two Responses are received, County may negotiate the best terms and conditions with that Respondent or reject the Response and re-solicit the Service.

5.12. Examination of Response Documents

It is the responsibility of each Respondent before submitting a Proposal, to (1) examine the Solicitation Documents thoroughly, (2) consider Federal, State, and Local Laws and Regulations that may affect cost, progress, or performance of Work, (3) study and carefully correlate Respondent's observations with the Solicitation Documents, and (4) notify the Contact Person of all conflicts, errors or discrepancies in the Solicitation Documents prior to submitting a formal Response.

Before submitting a Response, it shall be the Respondent's responsibility to submit to County a request for any additional information and data which pertains to the Project covered under this Solicitation which Respondent deems necessary to develop their Response for performing the Work in accordance with the terms and conditions noted herein.

The submission of a Response in response to this Solicitation shall be considered as a representation that Respondent; (1) has carefully investigated all conditions that affect, or may at some future date, affect the performance of Work covered by this Solicitation, (2) is fully informed concerning conditions to be encountered, the character, quality, and quantity of the services to be performed and the Work product to be furnished, and (3) is familiar with what is required to perform the Work covered by this Solicitation. The contents of Respondent's Response shall become a contractual obligation if Respondent is awarded the Contract. Failure to accept these obligations in a contractual agreement shall result in cancellation of the Award.

5.13. Public Tally

Individual Scorers' review of the Responses will be opened publicly, and the total scores will be read aloud on September 9, 2026, at 10:00am (subject to Change).

Public Tally shall be via a recorded, online “Microsoft Teams” meeting, use link listed below:

Microsoft Teams Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/245546176091155?p=F8RPyzK3AcrlxgUTMO Meeting ID: 245 546 176 091 155 Passcode: Jb962wR6

5.14. Protest Procedures

Solicitation Protest Procedures. Any Response award recommendation may be challenged on the grounds of material irregularities in the procurement procedure or in the scoring of the Response. Any person who submits a Response, but is not recommended for award of the contract, may protest such decision in strict compliance with this section. Failure to follow the Solicitation Protest Procedures within the time frames prescribed herein shall constitute a waiver of such protest and any resulting claims.

1. Notice of Intent to File a Protest. Any person who wishes to file a protest hereunder must file a Notice of Intent to File a Protest (“Notice”), in writing, with Department of Management and Budget (“DMB”) within 72 hours of posting of a recommendation of award. Such Notice is considered filed when it is received by DMB. A copy of the Notice must also be provided to the apparent best Consultant. The Notice shall include the name and address of the protester, county RFQ number and title, grounds upon which it is based, and must clearly indicate it is a Notice of Intent to File a Protest.

2. Formal Protest. Within five (5) business days after the filing of the written Notice of Intent to File a Protest, a formal protest must be filed with DMB. The formal protest is considered filed when it is received by DMB. A copy of the formal protest must also be provided to the apparent best Consultant. The formal protest shall include the following:

a. County RFQ number and title.

b. Name and address of the protester.

c. Concise statement of the facts alleged and of the rules, regulations, ordinances, statutory or constitutional provision, or other legal authorities entitling the protester to the relief requested.

d. Specifically request the relief to which the protester deems themselves entitled.

e. Any other relevant information that the protester deems to be material to the protest.

3. Protest Bond. Each formal protest must be accompanied by a protest bond in the form of a certified check, cashier’s check, or money order made payable to Citrus County, Florida, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the protester’s Response submitted to County. If the protester prevails, the bond shall be returned to the protester.

However, if after completion of the Solicitation Protest Procedures County denies the protest, the bond shall be forfeited to County.

4. Stay of Procurement. Once a formal protest is timely filed, DMB shall stay the award of the contract unless County Administrator determines that delaying the award of the contract will adversely impact substantial interests of County.

5. Review of Protest by DMB. Within ten (10) business days of the filing of the formal protest, the DMB Director shall issue a written determination, including the rationale for reaching such a determination. The written determination shall also inform the protester of his/her right to appeal the DMB Director’s decision to County Administrator.

6. Appeal of DMB Determination. The protester may appeal DMB Director’s determination, in writing, to County Administrator no later than five (5) business days after receipt of the DMB Director’s determination.

7. Final Determination of County Administrator. Within seven (7) business days of the filing of the appeal, County Administrator, upon consulting with County Attorney, shall issue a final determination. The decision of County Administrator will be final.

If needed, a designee will be appointed for the DMB Director and/or County Administrator if they are unable to participate in the protest procedures as outlined hereto.

6. Evaluation of Responses

Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

Points will be assigned to all criteria and totaled to determine Respondent’s ranking based on the following:

No. Evaluation Criteria Weight of Importance (Score)

1 Title Page 0 2 Letter of Transmittal 0 3 Experience and Qualification of the Firm 30 4 Project Team and Resumes 20 5 Project Approach 35 6 References 10 7 Required forms, documents, and supporting information 5

Total Possible Points for Response Evaluation (Criteria 1-8) 100 Total Possible Points for Oral Presentations (if applicable) 20

Scoring of the Responses

The scoring of the Responses will be performed by Individual Scorers and will be based on the scoring criteria noted in the above table. Each scoring criteria is assigned a weight based upon the importance of the criteria.

Individual Scorers will score each Respondent's written Response and assign a score for each criterion. Each discipline Respondents are applying for will be scored separately. The score can be zero to the maximum value, as noted in the table above.

Scores given by all Individual Scorers for each criterion will then be averaged to arrive at a single criterion score for each Respondent.

Scores for evaluation criteria#1-#8 for each Respondent will be totaled. If a Respondent were given a perfect score, that Respondent would receive a total score of 100.

Should there be a tie between Respondents, Respondent with the highest average score for the evaluation criteria titled “Project Approach" shall be ranked higher.

At the election of the Individual Scorers, three or more of the highest-ranking Respondents could be invited to make an oral presentation to the Individual Scorers. Such a presentation will provide an opportunity for the Respondents to provide additional information concerning their company and personnel, and to respond to questions that the Individual Scorers may have for clarifying the information provided in the Respondent's Response.

Each Respondent who gives an oral presentation will be scored and assigned a score of zero (0) to twenty (20), as noted in the table above. The scores given by all Individual Scorers for each Respondent will then be averaged to arrive at a single oral presentation score.

If oral presentations are conducted, the scores developed from the Response evaluation shall be added to the oral presentations score to arrive at an overall evaluation score, and the Respondents will once again be ranked highest (favorable) to lowest (unfavorable).

Should there be a tie between oral presentation scores, the Respondent with the highest average score for the criteria titled “Project Approach” shall be chosen.

During the award process, the County may require supplemental information in order to fairly evaluate a Respondent's qualifications. For this purpose, County may request such information from the Respondent after initial submittal. If such information is required, Respondent will be notified in writing and allowed a reasonable period of time to submit the information.

County reserves the right to reject any or all Responses, to waive any irregularities or formalities in the Responses received and to change the scoring process described above if circumstances dictate this or it is otherwise in the best interest of County to do so. In the event a Response is rejected or otherwise does not result in a contract award, County shall not be liable for any costs incurred by the Respondent in connection with the preparation and submittal of their Response. Additionally, at the discretion of County, County may elect not to pursue this avenue and abandon the solicitation entirely.

Response Scoring and Award

County reserves the right to (1) cancel this Solicitation, (2) reject any or all Responses, (3) waive any or all irregularities in the Responses, (4) modify the Scope of the Work, or (5) disregard all nonconforming, non-responsive, unbalanced or conditional Responses, as long as such does not give Respondent an advantage or benefit not enjoyed by the other Respondents or does not adversely impact the interests of County. County reserves the right to re-advertise the Solicitation when it is in the best interest of County. County also reserves the right to reject the Response of any Respondent if County believes that it would not be in its best interest to make an award to that Respondent, whether because the Response is non-responsive, or Respondent is unqualified or of doubtful financial ability, or fails to meet any other pertinent standard or criteria established by County.

In scoring Responses, County shall consider (1) the qualifications and experience of Respondents, (2) whether or not the Responses comply with the prescribed requirements, (3) the qualifications and experience of Respondent's proposed subconsultants/subcontractors, and (4) any additional terms and conditions, exceptions or variances stipulated by Respondent.

County may conduct investigations, seek clarifications, or request any information as County deems necessary to assist in the evaluation of any Response and to establish the responsibility, qualifications and financial ability of Respondent and their proposed subconsultants/subcontractors. Failure to provide requested information may result in rejection of the Response.

County shall issue a written Notice of Intent to Award, if any, to the Successful Respondent. However, no contract shall be formed between the Successful Respondent and County until approved at a Citrus County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting.

Responsiveness of the Responses and Disqualification

A responsive Response is one that complies with and conforms to the requirements of this Solicitation. A Response requiring changes to any portion of this Solicitation may be considered non-responsive. A Response that fails to comply with the Scope of Work and other criteria outlined in this Solicitation may be deemed non-responsive.

A Response may be rejected if found to be conditional, irregular, incomplete or not in conformance with the requirements and instructions contained herein, such as but not limited to: failure to strictly comply with and satisfactorily address the Prerequisite Criteria; failure to submit the information needed to evaluate the Response based on the Evaluation Criteria;

failure to provide the required forms or other documentation; incomplete, indefinite or ambiguous language; and improper and/or undated signatures.

Other conditions, which shall cause rejection of the Response, include, but are not limited to, evidence of collusion among Respondents, obvious lack of experience or expertise to perform the Work, failure to perform or meet financial obligations for previous contracts, falsification of any form required by County, or lack of having valid and appropriate local, state or federal permits, certifications and/or licenses necessary to perform the Work.

County may conduct such investigations as County deems necessary to assist in the evaluation of any Response and to establish the responsibility, qualifications and financial ability of Respondent and their proposed subconsultants/subcontractors. County reserves the right to seek clarifications or request any information deemed necessary for proper evaluation of Responses from all Respondents deemed eligible for Award. Failure to provide requested information may result in rejection of the Response.

Review of Successful Respondent's Facilities and Response

After the Solicitation due date, and prior to award of a Master Agreement, County reserves the right to perform, or have performed, an on-site review of Respondent's facilities and qualifications as well as documentation provided. This review will serve to verify data and representations submitted by Respondent and may be used to determine whether Respondent has the adequate equipped, qualified, and experienced staff that can perform the necessary Work outlined in the Solicitation. The review may also serve to verify whether Respondent has the adequate financial capability to meet County's requirements. Should County determine that (1) the Response or subsequent documentation submitted by Respondent has material misrepresentations, or (2) the size or nature of Respondent’s facilities or the number of experienced personnel (including technical staff) are not adequate to ensure satisfactory performance, or (3) ascertains any other basis for concern as to Respondent’s ability to perform the Services, County has the right to reject their Response.

Financial Strength

Prior to award of a contract, County reserves the right to request financial information from the Successful Respondent to assist County in further review of that Respondent's capabilities. Financial information provided shall be for the current and previous years, to include but not be limited to, a financial statement prepared by a Certified Public Accountant (i.e., balance sheet and income and cash flow statements) or a Supplier Qualifier Report prepared by Dun & Bradstreet.

Clarifications

Before an Agreement is executed, County reserves the right to seek clarifications for proper evaluation of the Response from all Respondents deemed eligible for award. Failure to provide requested information may result in rejection of the Response.

7. Award of Agreement

Signing of the Agreement

When County gives a Notice of Intent to Award to the Successful Respondent, it will be accompanied by an unsigned Agreement. Within ten (10) calendar days thereafter, Successful Respondent shall execute and deliver to County the Agreement, along with a certificate of insurance that shows policies, limits, and other conditions in compliance with that outlined in the Solicitation. Upon award and execution of the Agreement by County, one executed copy of Agreement shall be delivered to Successful Respondent.

Truth in Negotiation Statement

The selected Respondent must provide a written statement stating “wage rates and other factual unit cost(s) supporting the compensation are accurate, complete and current” prior to Contract execution.

No schedule of fees shall be submitted with your RFQ submittal. Hourly rates and Truth-In-Negotiation certificates (see Attachment C, Truth in Negotiation Certificate in the EXHIBITS section) shall be requested once Successful Respondent(s) have been selected.

Negotiations and Award

If County and the selected Respondent fail to reach a mutually acceptable Agreement, County reserves the right to terminate negotiations and proceed with the next most qualified Respondent. In the event of this occurrence, the next most qualified Respondent, if it wishes to accept the award, shall be required to provide the prices as contained in its Response for the work and/or services noted in this Solicitation.

8. Term of Agreement

Term of Agreement

If award is made, an Agreement shall be executed, and the duration of the Agreement shall be from the date that the parties have executed the Agreement until the project is completed by Successful Respondent and accepted by County. If County has to terminate the Agreement due to Consultant’s nonperformance, County has the right to negotiate with the next most qualified Consultant.

The Gulf Consortium Subrecipient Agreement No. 250068135.01 has a period of performance ending December 1, 2027.

9. Contents of RFQ

Certificate(s) of Insurance

Respondents are to submit a copy of their certificate(s) of insurance evidencing policies and limits of insurance that they currently have in force.

If awarded and once ALL paperwork is completed and received by County, an email will be sent to Successful Respondent requesting online registration with myCOI. It is critical that County is provided with an accurate email address. The cost to register is $19.95 per year and a credit/debit card will be needed. Part of the registration process includes providing contact information for Successful Respondent’s insurance agent(s), which will be needed at the time of registration. Once registered, an email will be sent to the insurance agent(s) requesting them to upload a current Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly into the myCOI website. Certificates of Insurance cannot be mailed, emailed, or faxed to County.