Tampa_Times_Request_Form.pdf

This is a Tampa Times Ad Placement Request Form submitted by the City of Plant City, Florida, for Invitation for Bids No. 26-009SS-CS-IFB to procure tree debris disposal and processing services. The solicitation seeks a qualified vendor to accept and process tree debris generated from the City's management of activities 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 vendor must maintain an approved facility within a 10-mile radius of City Hall at 302 West Reynolds Street, Plant City, FL 33563. The question submission deadline is March 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., and bids must be submitted electronically through the OpenGov procurement portal by March 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The initial contract term is one year with options for the City to renew for four additional one-year periods at its sole discretion. The legal notice was scheduled to run in the Tampa Tribune on February 15, 2026.

Pricing shall 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. The contract is non-exclusive, and the City reserves the right to delete any portion of services without cause. A local preference policy applies, offering 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. 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. Bidders must demonstrate a minimum of three years of documented experience in tree debris disposal services, provide at least four references, carry specified insurance coverage including 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. 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.