Tampa_Times_Legal_Ad_26-009SS-CS-IFB.docx

This is an Invitation for Bids (IFB) issued by the City of Plant City, Florida for tree debris disposal and processing services. The City seeks a qualified vendor to accept and process tree debris generated from municipal tree management along public streets and waterways, including an estimated 400 tons of clean log wood, 250 tons of clean brush, and 250 tons of mixed loads on a case-by-case basis. The approved disposal facility must be located within a 10-mile radius of City Hall at 302 West Reynolds Street, Plant City, Florida 33563. Questions must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on March 2, 2026, and sealed bids must be submitted electronically through the OpenGov procurement portal by 2:00 p.m. on March 12, 2026. The initial contract term is one year, with the option for the City to renew for four additional one-year periods at its sole discretion. Award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with bids not exceeding $50,000 eligible for City Manager approval and bids exceeding $50,000 requiring City Commission approval.

Pricing must be submitted on a per-ton basis for each of the three debris categories, with optional line items permitted for fuel surcharges and minimum load charges. A local preference policy allows qualifying bidders within Plant City city limits who maintain a physical office and pay applicable business taxes a discount of up to 1 percent of the lowest bid, not to exceed $2,500. Vendors must demonstrate a minimum of three years of documented experience in tree debris disposal services and provide at least four references from similar projects. Required insurance includes Workers' Compensation, Comprehensive General Liability of at least $500,000 per person and $1,000,000 per occurrence, and Commercial Automobile Liability of $500,000, with the City named as additional insured. A bid bond equal to 5 percent of the bid amount is required, and the selected bidder must execute the contract and provide all required documentation within 14 calendar days of receipt. The contract is non-exclusive, and the City reserves the right to delete any portion of services without cause or obligation to assign minimum work volumes.