Tampa_Times_Request_Form.pdf

This is a Tampa Times Advertisement Placement Request Form submitted by the City of Plant City, Florida, for the publication of an Invitation for Bids (IFB 26-009SS-CS-IFB) regarding Tree Debris Disposal Services. The advertisement is scheduled to run on February 15, 2026, in the Legal section of the Tampa Tribune for one day. The solicitation seeks a qualified vendor to accept and process tree debris generated from the City's management of trees along public streets and waterways, with estimated volumes of 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 facility must be located within a 10-mile radius of City Hall. The question submission deadline is March 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., and electronic proposals must be submitted through the OpenGov procurement portal by March 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The initial contract term is one year with options for four additional one-year renewals at the City's sole discretion.

Vendors must submit pricing on a per-ton basis for each of the three debris categories, with optional line items permitted for fuel surcharges and minimum load charges. Qualifying bidders within Plant City city limits who maintain a physical office and pay applicable business taxes are eligible for a local preference discount of up to 1 percent of the lowest bid, not to exceed $2,500. Bidders must demonstrate a minimum of three years of documented experience in tree debris disposal services and provide at least four references. 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. The contract is non-exclusive, and the City reserves the right to delete any portion of services without cause.