The_2024_Florida_Statutes_287.082.pdf

This is a Request for Proposals document issued by Hillsborough County Public Schools in Tampa, Florida, seeking qualified produce vendors for the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The solicitation calls for delivery of fresh, high-quality specialty fruits and vegetables to approximately 18 elementary school sites, with potential expansion to 20 schools in the 2026-2027 school year. All produce must be raw, pre-cut, pre-packaged in 50-unit cases with a minimum of seven days remaining shelf life, delivered on Mondays and Tuesdays between 6:00 AM and 2:30 PM. The program distributes free fresh produce to kindergarten through fifth-grade students two days per week outside of regular meal service. Technical questions were due by February 25, 2026, with an addendum issued February 26, 2026. Proposals were due March 11, 2026, via www.myvendorlink.com, with a review date of March 12, 2026, and an estimated award date of August 4, 2026. A public meeting was scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM via Microsoft Teams videoconference. The initial contract term runs from September 1, 2026, through May 1, 2027, with automatic renewal for up to four additional one-year periods subject to appropriation and performance.

The contract employs a cost-plus pricing model with a firm fixed fee per full case covering inside delivery and freight to all participating schools. Vendors must submit proposed pricing for sample menu items with their proposal, with actual monthly pricing subject to district office approval two weeks prior to each month's menu. The fixed delivery fee must remain firm for at least one year from the contract effective date. The estimated annual budget is $600,000, funded entirely by USDA grant awards with zero non-federal financing. Qualified vendors must have a minimum of three years of experience in produce distribution, a current Florida business license, GAP certification, and comply with all federal USDA food safety requirements and state certifications. Special requirements include compliance with Buy American provisions with phased non-domestic food purchase caps of 10 percent (2025-26), 8 percent (2028-29), and 5 percent (2031-32), as well as designation of two drivers with permanent MacDill Air Force Base passes for delivery to Tinker K-8 School. Contractors exceeding the $100,000 contract threshold are subject to Davis-Bacon Act wage standards and civil rights requirements. Vendors must also comply with Florida Statutes Section 287.082 regarding preference for domestically manufactured, grown, or produced commodities and Section 287.0822 regarding beef and pork inspection requirements.