rfsq_13253_dpc.pdf

REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS (RFSQ) 13253

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

AS NEEDED WATER AND WASTEWATER ENGINEERING SERVICES

July 30, 2026

A. KEY INFORMATION

1. The County of San Diego is seeking Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) from firms interested in providing as needed civil engineering services(“Offerors”). The County anticipates awarding up to four (4) contracts to the highest ranked firms. Specific work will be assigned via task orders. The Contractor and County will negotiate the scope of services and fees for each task order on a project-by-project basis using the negotiated hourly rates specified in the resulting agreement. Actual execution of task orders will be at the sole discretion of the County.

1.1.Offerors found to be qualified as a result of this RFSQ will be eligible for award of as-needed contracts for as needed civil engineering services. The contract term of resulting contracts is anticipated to be an initial (base) period of one (1) year(s) with four (4) one-year options.

2. The County has posted this solicitation on its official BuyNet website at https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/. In order to see all information related to this RFSQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

3. The Contracting Officer for this solicitation is Julie Searight, Procurement Contracting Officer, (Julie.Searight@sdcounty.ca.gov)

4. Schedule: This timeline is subject to change at any time, at the County’s sole discretion. The County will issue an addendum for changes to the Pre-SOQ Conference date, Questions due date, or SOQ due date.

Event Description Date and Time (San Diego Time) Pre-SOQ’s Conference August 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Questions due August 14, 2026 prior to 5:00 p.m.

SOQ’s due August 31, 2026 prior to 3:00 p.m.

5. Pre-SOQ Conference. The County will hold a pre-SOQ conference by Video/Teleconference using the Microsoft Teams platform on the Date and Time listed in the Schedule. To participate, join the virtual conference at https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28577737097396?p=wTr94UapSpsFAaUNZL The County will provide an overview of the RFSQ process and may provide a program/technical overview and other information. Attendance at the pre-SOQ conference is encouraged but not mandatory.

6. Questions:

6.1. Offerors should submit all Questions, including requests for clarification related to definition or interpretation of this RFSQ, in writing by the Date and Time specified in the Schedule. Questions should be submitted via BuyNet, by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality.

6.2. Non-Offerors should direct inquiries regarding this solicitation to the Contracting Officer

7. Table of Contents:

A. Key Information B. RFSQ Instructions and Rules C. Evaluation Criteria D. Submittal Items E. Appendix 1

MAGGIE RAMSBERGER

INTERIM DIRECTOR

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING

5560 OVERLAND AVENUE, SUITE 270, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92123-1204

Phone (858) 505-6367 Fax (858) 715-6452

BRENDA G. MILLER

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/ https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28577737097396?p=wTr94UapSpsFAaUNZL

COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO – REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS (RFSQ 13253)

DEPARTMENT PUBLIC WORKS FOR

AS NEEDED WATER AND WASTEWATER ENGINEERING SERVICES

F. Appendix 2 G. Required Forms H. Statement of Work I. Attachment 1 J. Attachment 2 K. Payment Schedule L. Draft Agreement

B. RFSQ INSTRUCTIONS AND RULES

1. INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A SOQ

1.1. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to submit a SOQ based on the most current RFSQ, addenda thereto, responses to Questions, any other information posted on BuyNet; any diligence material made available by the County.

Offerors are advised to regularly check BuyNet for information. The County has no obligation to contact Offerors directly with any such RFSQ-related information.

1.1.1. In order to see all information related to this RFSQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

1.2. Forms required to be submitted with Offerors response to this RFSQ are included in this RFSQ or posted on the County’s web site at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html.

1.2.1. Posted forms may be updated from time to time. Unless otherwise specified, offerors may submit the version of a form in place as of the date of the posting of this RFSQ or any later version.

1.3. Offerors are advised to allow for sufficient time to obtain all necessary documents and forms, resolve any technical difficulties obtaining or completing documents or forms, and, if necessary, obtain documents and forms by an alternate method. If you are unable to download documents or forms, you may request a hard copy or technical assistance from Purchasing and Contracting’s front desk or contact clerical support at (858) 505- 6367.

1.4. Offeror must submit a complete original SOQ in accordance with the format provided in this solicitation to the County of San Diego, Department of Purchasing and Contracting, through electronic upload to BuyNet before the Date and Time listed in Schedule.

1.4.1. If Offeror is unable to submit via BuyNet for any reason, Offeror may submit by providing the Purchasing and Contracting front desk with either (i) electronic files on CD/DVD or, (ii) a printed SOQ. Offeror must prominently mark such submissions with the RFSQ number on the outside of the packaging. Please use this method only if unable to submit through BuyNet.

1.4.2. When submitting via BuyNet, Offerors are advised to allow for sufficient time to submit by an alternate method in the event of technical difficulties.

1.4.3. For SOQs submitted electronically through BuyNet, the time on the BuyNet server shall be considered the official time for the purpose of determining timely submittal.

1.4.4. For SOQs submitted at the Purchasing and Contracting front desk, the time stamp at the front desk shall be considered the official time for the purpose of determining timely submittal.

1.4.5. In the event of multiple submittals of an original SOQ by an Offeror, the County will only consider the most recent submittal submitted before the due date and time. The County will not review or consider previous submittals, whether submitted at the front desk or through BuyNet. Offerors are strongly encouraged to submit only one original SOQ and to withdraw or replace any previous submittals in the event they update their SOQ. SOQs may be found non-conforming if the County is unable to determine which SOQ is the most recent, timely submittal.

1.5. A SOQ that is untimely or otherwise not submitted in conformance with 1.4 above will not be considered for award unless: it is received before award is made; the County determines that it is in its best interest to accept the SOQ; and

1.5.1. It is determined by the County that the late receipt was due solely to mishandling by the County, or

1.5.2. No timely and conforming SOQ was submitted.

1.6. SOQs may not be modified after the due date, except for modifications resulting from the Contracting Officer’s request for a revised SOQ, Best and Final Offer (BAFO), or an addendum to the SOQ.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html

1.7. SOQs may be withdrawn by written notice signed by a duly authorized representative of Offeror if received prior to Notice of Intent to Award. After Notice of Intent to Award, all SOQs constitute firm offers, subject to negotiation, that will remain open and cannot be revoked, withdrawn, or modified for a period of six (6) months.

1.7.1. All SOQs become the property of the County upon submission. An Offeror may request the return of its SOQ upon withdrawal, which return the County may grant or deny in its sole discretion.

1.8. By submitting a SOQ, Offeror agrees to these RFSQ Instructions and Rules and all other terms of this RFSQ.

2. QUESTIONS

2.1. Offerors shall direct requests for explanation regarding the RFSQ or related documents to the Contracting

Officer in writing as a question (“Question”). Submit Questions by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality in BuyNet.

2.2. The County may choose not to respond to Questions received after the date and time stated Schedule. Offeror is responsible for ensuring that Questions are received by the County.

3. SOQ FORMAT

3.1. Submit electronic SOQs as files in .pdf format, except where specified otherwise. For pages other than signature pages, converted and searchable formats are preferred.

3.2. SOQs shall be formatted to print on 8-1/2” x 11” page size, with no less than ½” margins and eleven (11) point font and to be suitable for black and white reproduction with no loss of information.

3.3. All SOQs shall be signed with a handwritten signature by an authorized officer or employee of the Offeror.

3.3.1. Electronic or digital signatures will not be accepted.

3.3.2. Pages requiring signatures must be scanned from an original handwritten signature. If Offerors are unable to submit a .pdf with scanned signatures, Offerors may optionally submit clear pictures of signature pages containing original handwritten signatures.

4. SOQ ORGANIZATION

4.1. Your SOQ must be organized in accordance with the Submittal Items in this RFSQ.

4.1.1. Content shall be organized to correspond to the applicable exhibit and question or item within each exhibit.

4.1.2. Offerors shall separate each exhibit into one or more files, clearly named as to the exhibit and order.

4.1.3. Pages shall be consecutively numbered within each exhibit at the bottom or top margin of each page.

4.2. Confidential/Proprietary information:

4.2.1. The County is a public agency subject to the California Public Records Act, Government Code § 7920.000, et seq. Some or all of the documents submitted in response to this RFSQ may be subject to disclosure, and the County intends to publish any resulting contracts to its public website.

4.2.2. It is Offeror's responsibility to identify and separate into a "CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit and to provide a signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement for:

4.2.2.1. all confidential information that should be protected from disclosure, including PI (Personal Information), PII (Personally Identifiable Information), or PHI (Protected Health Information), and

4.2.2.2. any proprietary or other information Offeror determines is exempt from disclosure under the California Public Records Act and wishes to protect from disclosure.

4.2.3. The “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit must be clearly labeled with all pages marked as

“CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY”

4.2.4. Refence material in the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit where it is needed to respond to a Submittal Item (for example “See response 1 contained within the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit” for staff Social Security numbers”).

4.2.5. If the County determines that a submission improperly designates information as confidential or proprietary, the County may, at its sole discretion: (i) deem the information releasable; (ii) declare the submission non-conforming/non-responsive; (iii) remove such information, or (iv) take any other appropriate action. (Note: pricing and terms and conditions are generally not considered confidential under the California Public Records Act).

5. SOQ EVALUATION

5.1. Evaluations shall be based on the criteria contained in the Evaluation Criteria and Submittal Items to determine the SOQs(s) that provide the best value to the County.

5.2. The County shall have the discretion, but not the obligation, to construe any submission as non-conforming and ineligible for consideration if it does not conform to the requirements of this Request for SOQs. The County shall also have the discretion to waive any irregularities or deviations from the requirements of this Request for SOQs in any submission.

5.3. Reserved.

5.4. Reserved.

5.5. During evaluation, County may appropriately consider the sustainability and social, human health, environmental, and economic impact of Offeror’s proposed products and approach to providing goods and services, in accordance with Board Policy B-67. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their SOQs.

5.6. During evaluation, the County may appropriately evaluate the cultural competency of Offeror and Offeror’s proposed approach to providing goods and services. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their SOQs.

5.7. Reserved.

5.8. In evaluating an Offeror’s ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFSQ and any resulting contract, the County may also consider any parent, subsidiary, or related legal entity of Offeror, including, without limitation, a legal entity that Offeror acquired or merged with or will use as a guarantor in providing services to the County.

6. EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

6.1. SOQs received, including any additions, revisions, and clarifications, will be evaluated by a Qualifications

Evaluation Committee (QEC) appointed by a Source Selection Authority(s) (SSA). The County may evaluate information known to the County, in addition to the information provided in response to the RFSQ.

6.2. The County reserves the right to request clarification and/or additional information (“Clarification”) from Offerors. The Contracting Officer will determine the appropriate means of requesting and obtaining Clarification, which may include telephonic communication, email, letter, presentation, oral interview, or an addendum or revision to the SOQ. The County may invite Offerors to make presentations to, or participate in interviews with, the County at a date, time, and location determined by the County. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the County is not obligated to seek Clarification, therefore Offerors are advised to submit complete and accurate information in their SOQs.

6.3. At any point in the evaluation process, the County may determine that a SOQ is unacceptable in any area or that a SOQ is no longer in the competitive range, and no longer consider it for award. In such cases, the Contracting Officer will attempt to notify the Offeror.

6.4. At any point in the evaluation process, the County may hold discussions with one or more Offerors in the competitive range. Discussions may include requests for revised SOQs, Best and Final Offers (BAFOs), or addenda to the SOQ that may contain additional selection factors.

6.5. Upon posting of the NOI, the County will enter into contract finalization negotiations with the selected Offeror(s) and, upon successful completion, award a contract(s).

6.6. The County may rescind or modify the NOI at any time due to unsuccessful negotiations or if the County otherwise determines that it is in its best interest to do so.

6.7. The actual timing and sequence of events resulting from this RFSQ shall ultimately be determined by the County, in its sole discretion. The County may, at any time cancel this RFSQ, reject all SOQs, restart evaluations, modify or replace the membership of the SSC, or correct any deficiencies in the procurement process or evaluation.

7. DEBRIEF AND REVIEW OF CONTRACT FILES

7.1. After an Offeror has been notified by the Contracting Officer that that Offeror’s SOQ is no longer being considered for award, the Offeror may request a debriefing from the Contracting Officer. For debriefings held prior to contract execution, the Offeror will be limited to a review of the information pertaining to the County’s evaluation of their own SOQ, in accordance with Section 9.4 of these RFSQ Instructions and Rules. After contract execution, debriefings may include review of other SOQs, the Source Selection Committee Report, and other releasable documents.

8. PROTEST PROCEDURE

8.1. Board Policy A-97 sets forth the procedures for the filing and resolution of protests related to this RFSQ. Board

Policy A-97 is available from the Clerk of the Board, 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101, or on the County’s website at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/ocd.html .

8.2. All protests must be filed in accordance with Board Policy A-97, which requires, among other things, that a protest must be filed timely, be submitted in writing to the Contracting Officer identified in the solicitation package, and be based on a protestable action and established grounds for protest.

9. COUNTY COMMITMENT

9.1. This RFSQ does not commit the County to award a contract, nor does it commit the County to pay any of

Offeror’s costs incurred in the preparation or submission of the SOQ. Further, no reimbursable cost may be incurred in anticipation of a contract award.

9.2. Neither Offeror nor any of its representatives shall have any claims whatsoever against the County or any of its respective officials, agents, or employees arising out of or relating to this RFSQ or these procedures (other than those arising under a definitive contract with Offeror in accordance with the terms thereof).

9.3. The County reserves the right to separately procure the same or similar goods or services.

9.4. The County may withhold all information regarding this procurement until after negotiations are complete, including, but not limited to: the number of SOQs received; the identity of Offeror(s); the content of SOQs; the County’s evaluation and results thereof; and, the identity of the members of the SSC. Information releasable after the conclusion of negotiations is subject to the disclosure requirements and withholding exemptions of the California Public Records Act.

9.5. Pursuant to County Charter §§ 703.10 and 916, award of a contract resulting from this RFSQ may be subject to the County’s requirement to determine that the services can be provided more economically and efficiently by an independent contractor than by persons employed in the Classified Service.

9.6. In the event that an Offeror is involved in a merger, acquisition, or other change in control, the County reserves the right to award a contract to a resulting entity.

10. DILIGENCE AND DUTY TO INQUIRE

10.1. Should an Offeror find discrepancies in or omissions from, or be in doubt as to the meaning of, the RFSQ or related documents, Offeror shall have a duty to submit a Question to the County.

10.2. Offerors are expected to perform reasonable due diligence with regard to this RFSQ and the work required, including, but not limited to, information that is publicly or otherwise reasonably available and, if applicable, information that can be obtained during a site visit (including verification of measurements, conditions, and https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/ocd.html other attributes). Neither the selected Offeror(s), nor any Offerors, shall be entitled to any price adjustment or other relief based upon information that was discovered or should have been discovered through due diligence.

10.3. The County makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of any diligence material or other information provided by the County or any of its agents, representatives, contractors or consultants. Such information may reflect good faith assumptions, estimates, or projections, which may or may not prove to be correct.

10.4. Offeror should not rely upon oral statements made or explanations given by the County, including any oral responses to Questions or other inquiries. No prior, current, or post award communication(s) with any officer, agent, or employee of the County shall affect or modify any terms or requirements of this RFSQ, except as explicitly provided for in this RFSQ.

11. OFFEROR COMMUNICATIONS

11.1. All communications from the Offeror (including its employees, agents, and representatives) to the County or its officers and employees (including consultants working on or assisting with this procurement), related to this RFSQ or the Offeror’s SOQ, must be directed in writing exclusively to the Contracting Officer, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer. Offerors shall not communicate with or attempt to contact any other County personnel about this solicitation, except as otherwise allowed for in this RFSQ or by law. Any improper contact may, at the County’s sole discretion, cause the Offeror to be removed from consideration for contract award.

11.2. If Offeror issues any public announcement, or otherwise engages in communication that, in the County’s sole determination, compromises the integrity of this RFSQ process or attempts to restrain competition, Offeror may be removed from consideration for award.

11.3. Audio and/or video recording of pre-SOQ conferences, presentations, discussions, negotiations, debriefings, or other communications with the County regarding this RFSQ are prohibited, unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

12. SOLICITING EMPLOYEES

12.1. Until contract award, Offerors shall not, directly or indirectly, solicit any employee of the County to leave the

County’s employ in order to accept employment with the Offeror, its affiliates, actual or prospective contractors, or any person acting in concert with the Offeror without prior written approval of the County’s Contracting Officer. This paragraph does not prevent the employment by an Offeror of a County employee who has initiated contact with the Offeror.

13. PROHIBITED CONTRACTS AND SUBCONTRACTS

13.1. In accordance with Section 67 of the San Diego County Administrative Code, the County shall not contract with, and shall reject any bid or proposal submitted by the person or entities specified below, unless the Board of Supervisors finds that special circumstances exist which justify the approval of such contract:

13.1.1. Persons employed by the County or of public agencies for which the Board of Supervisors is the governing body;

13.1.2. Profit making firms or businesses in which employees described in subsection 13.1.1 serve as officers, principals, partners or major shareholders;

13.1.3. Persons who, within the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, came within the provisions of subsection 13.1.1, and who (1) were employed in positions of substantial responsibility in the area of service to be performed by the contract, or (2) participated in any way in developing the contract or its service specifications; and

13.1.4. Profit making firms or businesses in which the former employees described in subsection 13.1.3 serve as officers, principals, partners or major shareholders.

13.2. Per Board Policy A-79, a successful Offeror that is a non-profit corporation shall not subcontract any work under the agreement with a related for-profit subcontractor where an interlocking directorate, management, or ownership relationship exists, unless specifically authorized by the Board of Supervisors.

13.3. Offeror certifies that if awarded a contract under this RFSQ, such contract will be in compliance with Sections

13.1 and 13.2 above. Offeror shall promptly notify the County of any change in circumstance affecting these provisions.

14. CALIFORNIA REVENUE & TAXATION CODE § 18662

14.1. In compliance with California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662, if Offeror is a non-resident of California

(out-of-state invoices) that receives California source income and has not completed Franchise Tax Board Form 590, there may be a backup withholding on all payments. Fifteen (15) business days prior to the first payment from the County, new suppliers, or suppliers with expired forms or forms with incorrect information, must submit new forms to the County (forms are available from the Franchise Tax Board website listed below).

14.2. Under certain circumstances, Offerors may be eligible for reduced or waived nonresident withholding. If Offeror has already received a waiver or a reduced withholding response from the State of California and the response remains valid, Offeror should submit the response to the County in lieu of the forms. Failure to submit the required forms will result in withholding of payments. Offerors should access the Franchise Tax Board websites, listed below, for tax forms and relevant information regarding non-resident withholding, including waivers or reductions. The County will not give Offerors any tax advice. It is recommended that Offerors speak with their tax advisers and/or the State of California for guidance.

Franchise Tax Board Websites:

https://www.ftb.ca.gov https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

14.3. If selected for award, the Offeror must submit applicable forms to the Auditor & Controller via fax, at (858) 694-2060, or mail originals to: County of San Diego, 5530 Overland Avenue, Suite 410, San Diego, CA 92123.

The P.O. Number or Contract Number (if available) and “California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662” must appear on fax cover sheet and/or the outside of the mailing envelope.

15. W-9 FORM

15.1. If selected for award, the Offeror must complete and submit a W-9 form if a current form is not on file with the

County.

16. PREVAILING WAGE

16.1. Prevailing Wage The County’s public works projects are subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), in accordance with Labor Code § 1771.4(a)(1). A contractor or subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, subject to the requirements of Section 4104 of the Public Contract Code, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, as defined in Labor Code § 1720, et seq., unless currently registered and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code § 1725.5, all as more particularly described in Labor Code § 1771.1(a).

The Offeror who is ultimately selected shall post all notices required by and pursuant to Labor Code § 1771.4(a)(2) at the job site, whether or not the County also posts these notices.

(Remainder of this page left blank) https://www.ftb.ca.gov/ https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

C. EVALUATION CRITERIA

SOQ Evaluation Criteria

The evaluation criteria listed below are in descending order of importance by paragraph, not subparagraph, and will be considered in the evaluation of the Offeror’s written and oral SOQs accordingly. SOQs should give clear, concise information in sufficient detail to allow an evaluation based on these criteria.

Mandatory minimum requirements for eligibility are included in the evaluation criteria. Failure to satisfy these mandatory minimum requirements will be considered disqualifying, and the SOQ will not be considered for award.

1. Offeror and Offeror’s Subcontractor Experience and Qualifications:

1.1. The extent of Offeror’s and Subcontractor’s Organizational experience and qualifications relevant to the scope of work outlined in the Exhibit A, Statement of Work, with an emphasis on experience providing similar to as-needed Water and Wastewater Engineering Services to similar size clients to that of the County in the following categories:

1.1.1. Planning.

1.1.2. Water and Wastewater treatment facilities.

1.1.3. Water and Wastewater collections and distribution systems.

1.1.4. Technical support for permit work required by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board and other local, state, and federal agencies related to water/wastewater.

1.1.5. Technical support for rate studies and local, state and federal grant and low interest loans applications related to water/wastewater systems.

1.1.6. Public agencies water/wastewater CIP project design including preparing PS&E package.

2. Offeror’s Proposed Team Experience and Qualifications:

2.1. The extent of Small Local Business Participation.

2.2. The extent of the proposed Team’s (Offeror and offeror’s subcontractors that will be available for assigned tasks) experience and qualifications relevant to the scope of work outlined in Exhibit A, Statement of Work.

2.3. The extent of team continuity and experience having worked together on past projects similar to those identified in Exhibit A.

2.4. The provision of a clear organizational chart identifying the roles, responsibilities and reporting structure of the

Team members and identifying where sub-contractors may be required.

2.5. The extent to which the Offeror and Offeror subcontractor’s organization demonstrates having access to a broad pool of qualified subcontractors across a range of experience levels and who are efficiently located to effectively provide services as part of this agreement.

3. Organization Capacity and Competency:

3.1. The extent to which the Offeror demonstrates having performance management procedures, tools, and best practices to ensure effective performance and quality assurance procedures.

3.2. Demonstration that an Offeror has conducted a thorough investigation into their history of compliance and ethical behavior, including risk of contracting with the Offeror, which may be based on, among other things, prior, current, and potential future lawsuits, investigations, inquiries on errors or omissions, and regulatory actions as they relate to this contract and/or the Offeror’s ability to deliver performance under this contract.

4. Terms and Conditions:

4.1. The acceptance or non-acceptance of the terms and conditions, including insurance, and the extent to which any exceptions could increase risk to the County.

D. SUBMITTAL ITEMS

SOQs should give clear, concise information in sufficient detail and in the order presented below to allow for a comprehensive evaluation. The County shall have the discretion, but not the obligation, to construe any submission as non-conforming and ineligible for consideration if it does not conform to the Submittal Requirements described by these Submittal Items. The County shall also have the discretion to waive any irregularities or variances from these Submittal Items in any submission and/or seek Clarification.

Although the Submittal Requirements below may be organized by Evaluation Criteria, the headings are only for purposes of organization and clarity. The County may evaluate the information provided under any section of the Submittal Requirements for each Evaluation Criterion (e.g., when evaluating the offeror’s Technical Approach, the County is not limited to reviewing the information submitted in response to the Technical Approach section and may, for example, also rely on information submitted in response to the Offeror's Experience, Qualifications, Capacity, Competency, etc.).

EXHIBIT 1 - REQUIRED FORMS

1 EXHIBIT 1 - REQUIRED FORMS

1.1 Submit a completed and signed Offeror’s Cover Page (PC600) form

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf

1.2 Submit a completed and signed Representations and Certifications form (PC601)

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf

1.3 Submit a completed and signed Small-Local Business Self-Certification Form (PC610)

• All Offerors are encouraged to complete this form to support County data collection.

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf

1.4 Confirm understanding and acceptance “YES/NO” of Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation

Requirements:

YES ☐ NO ☐

• As this contract is an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, Small-Local Business Subcontractor

Participation Requirements as set forth in Board Policy B-53 apply at the time of task order issuance, based on the value of an individual task order. Offeror does not need to submit a Small-Local Business Subcontractor Utilization Plan with its submittal. The draft agreement contains a link to the form the successful offeror must use to submit its Small-Local Business Subcontractor Utilization Plan for individual task orders. Where the value of services for a task order exceeds $1 million in annual value, the successful offeror must demonstrate that it (i) will either meet or exceed a 3% Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation Requirement or show a good faith effort to do so, or (ii) is exempt from the Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation Requirements.

1.5 Submit a completed and signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement (PC620) (if applicable).

• Required if submitting Confidential/Proprietary Information (see RFSQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2)

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2 EXHIBIT 2 - PROGRAM/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT

2.1. Offeror and Offeror Subcontractor Experience and Qualifications https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2.1.1 Provide five (5) relevant projects of similar scope as stated in the Statement of Work performed by the Primary Firm (Offeror) within the past five (5) years with agencies similar in size to the County and any projects for the County of San Diego. For each project example listed include:

2.1.1.1 Client name.

2.1.1.2 Summary description of the work that your firm performed.

2.1.1.3 Project Start Date/ End Date.

2.1.1.4 Initial and final budget

2.1.1.5 Adherence to schedule

2.1.1.6 Describe the specific project deliverables, similarities to the County’s scope, and how they were used by the client(s).

2.1.2 Provide a list of all subcontractors who are being utilized to perform these services. For each proposed subcontractor:

2.1.2.1 Describe the role/task(s) to be performed.

2.1.2.2 Provide an overview of experience that supports their ability to perform.

2.1.3 Describe the extent of the Offeror and subcontractor’s knowledge, understanding, and experience performing relevant projects of similar scope to the work being performed by subcontractors within the last five (5) years.

2.1.4 Provide three (3) references for whom your firm has provided services of similar scope to those of the County’s requirements. For each reference detail:

2.1.4.1 Customer Name.

2.1.4.2 Contact details (address, phone number, and email address).

2.1.4.2.1. The County will make reasonable attempts to contact references. The County’s inability to reach a reference after reasonable attempts may be treated as an unfavorable reference for evaluation purposes. An unfavorable response is a response from a listed reference stating that they would not enlist the company to peform services again in the future, or comments provided that the County deems substantially negative or reflective of substandard service

2.2 Project Team Experience, Qualifications, and Capacity

2.2.1. The County is committed to promoting the successful participation of Small Local Businesses, as defined in County of San Diego Board Policy B-53, located at:

https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_diego/latest/sandiego_board/b_53 small local business__policy_(_s_l_b_p)

Please indicate whether your organization, as the Offeror/Prime Contractor, qualifies as a Small Local Business. If yes, include a completed and signed Small-Local Business Self-Certification Form (PC610) and identify any proposed subcontractors, including their names and the work or services they will perform. If no subcontractors are proposed, please state so.

2.1.1.1 If your organization does not qualify as a Small Local Business, provide the same subcontractor information along with how each subcontractor qualifies under BOS Policy B-53 (e.g., Local Business – Section 2, Small Business – Section 1, or Social Equity Enterprise – Section 4). If no subcontractors are proposed, please state so.

2.2.2. For all Key Personnel proposed (including subcontractors) as a part of the available project team provide a summary identifying your proposed project team’s collective breadth of experience, availability, and location. The summary shall include company names, key personnel names, positions titles, https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_diego/latest/sandiego_board/b_53smalllocalbusiness_ https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_diego/latest/sandiego_board/b_53smalllocalbusiness_ https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_diego/latest/sandiego_board/b_53__small__local__business__policy_(_s_l_b_p) certifications, registrations, and years of experience as it relates to Evaluation Criteria Section 2.2.

Appendix 1 is provided as a sample; it is recommended that the proposers submit key personnel in a similar format but not required.

2.2.3. Provide a half (½) page resume for all Key Personnel to be assigned to the project team. Including:

2.2.3.1 Pertinent years of experience of performing similar services as those outlined in Exhibit A, Statement of Work, and past engineering and project management experience supporting experience relevant to the role assigned to the project.

2.2.3.2 Education

2.2.3.3 Certifications

2.2.3.4 Unique relevant individual experience

2.2.3.5 Additional applicable qualifications or experience

2.2.4 Provide a Project Team Organization Chart. The project team organizational chart should list names, position titles, and company names assigned to this project team (RFSQ). The chart should illustrate the team’s hierarchy, reporting structure, and relationships with employees, subcontractors, and subcontractor’s employees. The chart should show the anticipated availability of staff and location of staff. The County’s preference is for personnel who are efficiently located to support the work to be conducted in the San Diego Region. The chart should identify one person, that will be the primary point of contact between the Offeror and County. Submit Project Team Organization Chart as in Appendix 2.

2.2.5 Describe the extent of team continuity of the Prime Contractor and Subcontractor working together on other projects. Include brief project examples that list all personnel (proposed to support this contract) who collectively participated in those projects and identify their roles.

2.3. Organization Competency and Compliance

2.3.1 Describe how your firm manages project performance to ensure schedules and budgets are adhered to; on-going project risks are identified and mitigated, and project status updates are provided to customers.

Include in your description:

2.3.1.1. Internal/External processes established to ensure project performance, cost controls, and tracking.

2.3.1.2. Any applicable tools utilized to ensure performance.

2.3.2 Describe how your firm manages quality assurance to ensure the quality of work products delivered to the

County. Include in your description:

2.3.2.1. Describe effective performance and quality assurance procedures. (e.g., internal review processes, technology, established process/procedures, etc.)

2.3.2.2. Any applicable tools utilized to ensure quality assurance.

3 EXHIBIT 3 - COST/PRICE EXHIBIT

A Payment Schedule does not need to be submitted with Offeror’s SOQ, as this procurement is being conducted in accordance with the Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) procedures mandated by 40 U.S.C.

Chapter 11 (Brooks Act) and California Government Code §§ 4525–4529.5, as applicable, where the selection of the most qualified firm shall be based on demonstrated competence and professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the required services and price shall not be used as an evaluation factor in the selection process.

Following the evaluation and ranking of firms, the County will initiate negotiations with the highest-ranked firm(s) to establish a contract with a fee that is fair and reasonable to the public agency. If a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached, negotiations will be terminated and initiated with the next most qualified firm, and so on, until a contract is awarded.

A Payment Schedule does not need to be submitted with Offeror’s SOQ. Pricing will not be evaluated as part of this qualifications-based selection process. Following the evaluation and ranking of firms, the County will initiate negotiations with the highest-ranked firm(s) to establish a contract with a fee that is fair and reasonable to the public agency. If a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached, negotiations will be terminated and initiated with the next most qualified firm, and so on, until a contract is awarded.

4 EXHIBIT 4 – ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

4.1 Confirm acceptance “YES/NO” of the County of San Diego’s Draft Agreement (including insurance requirements):

YES ☐ NO ☐

4.1.1 If “NO”, provide a detailed paragraph-by-paragraph, contract clause-by-contract clause description of any issues or concerns that Offeror may have with the documents listed. If Offeror objects to a particular paragraph or clause, then Offeror will need to further describe, in business terms and not in proposed language, the nature of its concern and what terms Offeror is willing to accept. The Exception List shall provide the reason or rationale supporting the item of concern and/or counter-response. Simply stating that a paragraph or clause is "Not Acceptable" or proposing alternative contract terms without describing in business language the reason or rationale may be considered acceptance of that paragraph or clause. If Offeror does not identify specific concerns with a particular paragraph or clause, the County will consider the paragraph and/or clause acceptable. The County may, as part of its evaluation process, conclude that exceptions are so numerous and/or material as to make Offeror’s response to the solicitation unacceptable.

5 EXHIBIT 5 – CONFIDENTIAL PROPRIETARY

5.1 Include any Confidential/Proprietary Information in this exhibit, in accordance with RFSQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2.

APPENDIX 1

KEY PERSONNEL STAFFING

KEY

PERSONNEL

NAME

JOB TITLE

AND ROLE

AREA OF

EXPERTISE

YEARS OF

EXPERIENCE

BRIEF SUMMARY OF

EXPERIENCE/REGISTRATIONS/

CERTIFICATES

AVAILABILITY

FOR THIS

CONTRACT

OFFICE

LOCATION

John Smith Project Director Engineer Project Manager Land Surveyor

Brief experience summary 50% San Diego

APPENDIX 2

PROJECT TEAM ORGANIZATION CHART

Please provide an organizational chart outlining key personnel, their qualifications and areas of expertise, who will be responsible for the coordination and production of task /project deliverables under this contract and include their resumes.

List all subcontractors and their area(s) of expertise.

PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE

Name, job title and area of expertise

QA/QC

Name, job title and area of expertise

TASK ORDER MANAGERS

Name, job title and area of expertise, AREA OF EXPERTISE/SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT

Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title Name, job title

SUBCONTRACTOR’S AREA OF EXPERTISE COMPANY NAME

Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise Area of Expertise

E. REQUIRED FORMS

(RESERVED)

F. STATEMENT OF WORK

1. Scope of Work

1.1. The scope of work will provide water and wastewater design and engineering services. These services include the preparation of Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E); multidisciplinary technical calculations and modeling; constructability reviews; and design phase support. Services will also include consulting, contract administration, construction inspection, and review services for the County of San Diego, Department of Public Works, Wastewater Management Section on an as‑needed basis. These services shall primarily support the Wastewater Management’s Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and Major Maintenance Programs (MMIP) and will align with the Wastewater Management’s compliance obligations with state, federal and local regulations and its related services.

2. Background Information

2.1. Wastewater Management has identified the need for Contractors to provide professional services which shall include but not be limited to civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering; instrumentation and Controls (I & C); geotechnical, and environmental related fields of engineering; project planning and sequential phasing;

technical studies; plan checking; construction field and administrative support; asset and maintenance management; facilities operations’ diagnostics; financial planning; and review other related professional engineering services. Use of a Contractor will enhance Wastewater Management’s ability to complete the design and construction of CIP and MMIP in a timely manner; comply with regulatory requirements; maintain a reliable and efficient water and wastewater treatment system; and provide timely customer service.

2.2. The Contractor’s design output includes various engineering discipline calculations such as: PS&E packages;

hydraulic and transient models; structural and seismic analyses; electrical instrumentation, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) designs. All disciplines will be used to advance wastewater management projects from planning, bidding, and construction. Design deliverables must be biddable, buildable, and maintainable. They shall include clear data standards and hands-off requirements compatible with the Wastewater Management’s Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and Geographic Information System

(GIS).

3. Specific Requirements for Service Delivery

Contractor shall provide the following services:

3.1. Plan, Specification, and Estimate (PS&E) Preparation:

3.1.1. Develop Plans for civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, I&C, and SCADA.

3.1.2. Develop Specifications per County design standards.

3.1.3. Create the Estimated quantity take-offs and Engineer’s Opinion of Probable Construction Cost.

3.2. Perform Technical Calculations and Model the following:

3.2.1. Hydraulic and surge or transient analysis for force mains, siphons, and gravity systems.

3.2.2. Process modeling and equipment sizing for treatment facilities, including duty and standby strategies.

3.2.3. Structural and seismic calculations, geotechnical basis of design, and foundation systems.

3.2.4. Electrical studies, including load, arc flash, coordination, and telemetry, and I&C design.

3.3. Submittal Milestones

3.3.1. Design thirty percent concept, sixty percent intermediate, ninety percent pre-final, and one hundred percent final or Issue For Construction (IFC).

3.3.2. Each submittal shall include a Basis of Design narrative, updated drawings and specifications, cost estimate, risk register, constructability notes and documentation logging resolution of County provided comments on submittals.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/dpw/wasteh2o/developers-design-standards.html

3.4. Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC)

3.4.1. Establish independent checks and interdisciplinary reviews, and identification of responsible Professional Engineers (PEs) for stamping.

3.4.2. Perform biddability and constructability reviews at sixty percent and ninety percent with resolution logs maintained to closure.

3.4.3. Design documentation shall reflect and support the applicable State, federal and local requirements.

3.5. Permitting and Regulatory Support

3.5.1. Provide technical support for permit amendments and regulatory submittals associated with water and wastewater facilities.

4. Design Projects

4.1. The types of design projects shall include the following, but are not limited to the services that are needed by the Department of Public Works.

4.1.1. Evaluate water treatment processes and suggest modifications to existing water and wastewater treatment plants.

4.1.2. Assess and design modifications for existing pump stations and treatment facilities including repairs to and/or replacement of pumps, mechanical and electrical equipment and components, structural rehabilitation and other related work as required and defined for individual locations.

4.1.3. Design and/or review designs of water reclamation plants.

4.1.4. Design and/or review designs of wastewater pumping stations and conveyance systems.

4.1.5. Design and/or review designs of potable water wells and conveyance systems.

4.1.6. Rehabilitate, upgrade and/or replace existing facilities and infrastructures such as sewer force mains, metering structures, interceptor lines, maintenance holes (MH), treatment plants, water distribution system, water storage tanks, and components thereof.

4.1.7. Structural design of treatment facilities, concrete structures, pump station buildings, pipe supports, equipment pads, water reservoir tanks including seismic calculations and geotechnical evaluations.

4.1.8. Design and/or review design of communication systems within/between the facilities and operation center (i.e. SCADA)

4.2. Additional Services

4.2.1. Identify areas in need of emergency response plans and sewage bypass plans for potential failure of wastewater collection and conveyance infrastructures and facilities.

4.2.2. Review impacts of new subdivision/developments on the existing water and/or wastewater treatment and infrastructure facilities including proposing alternatives and designing solutions to mitigate the impacts.

4.2.3. Prepare rate and fee studies for the San Diego County Sanitation District and County operated water service areas.

4.2.4. Prepare short-term and long-term financial plans to fund operations, reserves, maintenance and capital improvement projects.

4.2.5. Prepare economic analysis and cost estimates for design, improvements and…