Utility_Bill_Printing_Services_(Addendum_#3_Revision).pdf

INVITATION FOR BID

IFB-604816-24/MHH

UTILITY BILL PRINTING SERVICES

1301 East Second St.

Sanford, FL 32771

RELEASE DATE: May 24, 2024

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS: June 17, 2024

RESPONSE DEADLINE: June 26, 2024, 2:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/seminolefl https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/%7bproject.government.code%7d

Seminole County

IFB #IFB-604816-24/MHH

Utility Bill Printing Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Introduction II. Scope of Services

III. Instructions to Bidders IV. Instructions for the Preparation of Bids V. Evaluation Phases

Attachments:

A - DRAFT Agreement - IFB-604816-24_MHH

B - Exhibit C - Revised Pricing Proposal

Title: Utility Bill Printing Services

1. Introduction

The Bidder is expected to completely analyze the information contained in this Invitation for Bid

(IFB) as guidance for the preparation of their written submittal. The Bidder’s written bid should be specific, detailed, and complete to demonstrate the Bidder’s understanding of the requested work clearly and fully and/or delivery requirements.

1.1. Summary

Seminole County is seeking qualified vendors to perform its utility bill printing, inserting of flyer's, and mailing/ emailing services. The County has approximately 44,000 water & sewer utility customers and sends out an average of 25,000 printed bills and an average of 17,000 emailed bills each month.

Billing cycles occur 17 days out of the month:

• Utility Billing Statements are created daily and mailed and emailed.

• Final Billing statements are created weekly on Fridays mailed and emailed.

1.2. Contact Information

Project Contact:

Michael Hall Senior Procurement Analyst 1301 E. Second Street Sanford, FL 32771 Email: mhall02@seminolecountyfl.gov Phone: (407) 665-7115

Procurement Contact:

Michael Hall Senior Procurement Analyst 1301 E. Second Street Sanford, FL 32771 Email: mhall02@seminolecountyfl.gov Phone: (407) 665-7115

Department:

Environmental Services - Utilities Operations

1.3. Timeline

Release Project Date May 24, 2024

Question Submission Deadline June 17, 2024, 5:00pm

Proposal Submission Deadline June 26, 2024, 2:00pm mailto:mhall02@seminolecountyfl.gov tel:(407)665-7115 mailto:mhall02@seminolecountyfl.gov tel:(407)665-7115

2. Scope of Services

2.1. Project Requirements

The Scope of Work includes the following items:

A. Implementation

B. Printing

C. Inserting

D. Mailing/Delivery to USPS Facility

Implementation:

A. Provide initial programming and set-up required to render statements from County-supplied files, subject to County approval.

1. Contractor will work with County staff as needed to accomplish implementation, including assurance of software compatibility and similar details.

B. Provide a means for secure data transmission and e-mailed receipt confirmations.

C. Provide printed statement design services as required and have the ability to easily update information when needed. The design should accommodate the use of graphics, bar graphs, and color where feasible.

D. Provide email statement design services as required and have the ability to easily update information when needed. The design should accommodate the use of graphics, bar graphs, and color where feasible.

E. Provide statement samples in order to ensure accuracy with our bank check scanning equipment.

Printing:

A. In accordance with the County's existing billing schedule, the County will supply the

Contractor electronic text files generated from its Utility Billing Software.

1. Billing statements must be produced from data provided, in its current format. If you are unable to create statements using the County's existing data layout, please note this in your proposal and include specific data layout requirements.

B. Contractor will process the data to generate images of individual billing statements from the electronic files provided. Contractor's software will allow the County to review and release bill images that are ready for printing and distribution.

1. Allow for conditional messaging on the front of statements and in the emails.

2. If the bills are released before noon Eastern Standard Time , the bills will be printed and mailed/emailed by the Contractor that same day.

3. If the bills are not released by noon Eastern Standard Time, the bills will be printed and mailed/emailed by the Contractor the next working day.

C. Contractor will print approved customer bills in accordance with the County's existing billing schedule.

1. The bills will be folded and inserted into a #10 window envelope and, on occasion, with up to two (2) "special" inserts. Additionally, a #9 remittance envelope will be included with regular Utility Billing Statements.

2. Provide conditional selection/suppression of remittance envelopes for direct debit customers. These will be notated in a "TRUE" algorithm sent in the data files.

3. Ability to combine multiple statements into one envelope where the mailing address is the same.

D. Contractor will provide an Online portal to store the completed statements for the County.

The County will have the ability to email them directly to the customer or print them from this portal. Billing statement images should be provided to the County in a .pdf format, similar to the format currently used by the County.

E. Contractor will implement safeguards and checks to avoid duplicates, wrong addresses, and other erroneous information in the billing statements. Any bills that are not presentable or are incorrect due to Contractor processing problems or mistakes will be reprocessed immediately and at the Contractor's expense.

Inserting:

A. Support "special" bill insert services. County departments occasionally need "special" inserts printed and mailed only within certain billing cycles' monthly statements. Contractor must provide the capability of selective insertion and allow for pre-printed inserts to be provided by the County.

1. Note: The County may require up to two (2) inserts per statement.

B. Contractor will have the ability to print the "special" inserts or receive them preprinted from the County for insertion in to the bills.

Marking/Delivery to USPS Facility:

A. Prepare bulk mailings under Contractor's own mailing permit. Metered postage will be by

First Class Rates, pre-sorted down to the lowest possible U.S. Postal Service (USPS) first class rate.

1. Software used to pre-sort must be USPS-approved.

2. Any non-certified addresses should be reported to the County within thirty (30) days for correction in future billings.

B. Contractor shall certify that mailings conform to all current USPS regulations.

1. Contractor is responsible for providing Certified Address Service System (CASS) certification, as required by the USPS.

C. Monthly postage costs shall be reimbursed to Contractor at actual USPS cost.

2.2. Current Services and Materials

The County currently processes statements in accordance with the following:

A. Paper customer statements, per billing schedule and specifications outlined below.

B. Processing, folding, inserting, and pre-sorting (including any additional inserts).

C. Outgoing envelope: #10 USPS single window. Combining multiple statements for single customers.

D. Remittance envelopes provided in Utility Billing Statements only: #9 USPS.

1. Remittance envelopes withheld on statements indicating Auto Draft. This is indicated through a true/false algorithm in the submitted files.

E. Postage (CASS certified and sorted to Carrier Route).

F. Contractor delivers utility bills to USPS facility.

G. Email (e-bill) all bills that are notated through an algorithm in the submitted files.

The City's current billing schedule and specifications are as follows:

Utility Billing Statements:

A. Approximately 25,000 statements are mailed monthly and are generated 17 days out of the month.

B. These statements are 4 colors on face and 4 color on back. Printed on 8.5x11 white stock with 3.5-inch perforation at bottom. Bill remittance at bottom of statement with scan line font.

Emails:

A. Approximately 17,000 emails are generated monthly.

Final Notice Statements:

A. Approximately 500 statements are mailed monthly and are generated on Wednesdays.

B. These statements are 4 colors on face and 1 color on back. Printed on 8.5x11 canary yellow stock with 3.5-inch perforation at bottom. Bill remittance at bottom of statement with scan line font.

Inserts:

A. Inserts when requested; currently only included in regular Utility Billing Statements. and added to the email bills.

B. Some months may have two (2) inserts per statement. Inserts are subject to change yearly.

NOTE: These counts are averages and are subject to fluctuation. Actual printed quantities will also vary upon customers' interest in paperless statement options.

3. Instructions to Bidders

3.1. Contact

All prospective Bidders are hereby instructed not to contact any member of the Seminole

County Board of County Commissioners, the County Manager or Deputy Manager, or any

Seminole County Staff members other than the noted Purchasing & Contracts Division (herein referred to as ‘PCD’) Contact Person, Michael Hall, regarding this IFB or their written bid at any time prior to the posting on the COUNTY’S Website of the recommendation and intent to award by County staff for this project. Any such contact shall be cause for rejection of your bid.

Interpretation of this clause will be solely at the discretion of the COUNTY.

3.2. Pre-Proposal Conference

There will not be a Pre-Proposal Conference for this IFB.

3.3. Public Opening

Electronic bids shall be received by PCD online in accordance with the instructions in this solicitation documents, unless otherwise revised via posted Addenda. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to participate in the Public Opening should call the noted PCD Contact

Person at least forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the Public Opening at (407) 665-7115.The

Public Opening via ZOOM https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84499184101?pwd=UVhDbk9IS3lnZkZUMW9WV01vWlp3UT09 /

Meeting ID: 844 9918 4101 / Passcode: 760550

3.4. Delays

The COUNTY, at its sole discretion, may delay the scheduled due date and time for submission, if it is to the advantage of the COUNTY to do so. The COUNTY will post all changes in the scheduled due date and time for submission by written addendum posted to the COUNTY’s

Website: (https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/seminolefl)

3.5. Bid Submission and Withdrawal

The COUNTY will accept bids electronically via the COUNTY’s e-Procurement Portal until 2:00 pm on Wednesday, June 26, 2024. Bids received after the scheduled due date and time for submission shall not be considered. Bids submitted in any other format other than via the

COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal, including but not limited to, hard copy (mailed or hand delivered), facsimile, or emailed submittals, will not be accepted, nor considered. The scheduled due date and time for submission will be scrupulously observed. Companies shall register on the COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal. Once registered, Companies may view and click "Follow" to be a prospective Bidder for this solicitation and will appear on the Follower’s list. Bidders that fail to Follow this project will not receive automatic addenda notifications, nor will they be able to draft a response in the COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal, and therefore will be unable to participate or be considered for this IFB. If a Bidder encounters technical difficulties using the

COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal, or needs assistance using the Portal, Bidders may access the Help Center for vendor training guides provided by OpenGov-Procurement, the Software

Administrator. Proposers may also contact the Software Administrator using the real-time chat http://help.procurenow.com/en/articles/5815468-opengov-procurement-vendor-training function on the COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal (located in lower right-hand corner of the screen), or via email at support@procurenow.com for support.

The COUNTY will not be responsible for untimely submissions due to personal or company internet or hardware limitations, settings or restrictions, internet speed, power outage, network connection, or use of a malfunctioning electronic device, or the like, neither the COUNTY, nor the Software Administrator, will be held responsible. Bidders shall be solely responsible for ensuring the capability of their computer system while responding to this solicitation, and for the stability of their internet service. Uploading large documents may take significant time depending on the size of the file(s) and the Internet connection speed that the Bidder is using to submit a response. Failure of the Bidder to successfully submit an electronic proposal before the deadline indicated herein shall be at the Bidder's sole risk, and no relief will be given for late and/or improperly submitted bids. Once file(s) have been uploaded and the Submission Status shows as “Submitted” the submission is complete. At that point, the Bidder will also receive an email confirmation from the COUNTY’s e-Procurement Portal. Telephone confirmation of timely receipt of any submittal should be made by calling (407) 665-7115, before the 2:00 pm deadline.

The Bidder is required to submit ONE (1) ELECTRONIC FORMATTED file of their complete written bid.

Bidders may withdraw their bid electronically via the COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal at any time prior to the scheduled due date and time for submission.

3.6. Inquiries

All Bidders should carefully examine the IFB documents. Any ambiguities or inconsistencies shall be brought to the attention of PCD Contact Person in writing via the Q&A tab in the

COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal prior to the scheduled due date and time for submission.

Failure to do so, on the part of the Bidder, shall constitute an acceptance by the Bidder of any subsequent decision made by the COUNTY. Any questions concerning the intent, meaning and interpretations of the IFB documents including the attached Draft Agreement, shall be requested in writing, and received no later than 5:00 pm on Monday, June 17, 2024. Written requests shall be submitted via the COUNTY’S e-Procurement Portal The COUNTY will not be responsible for oral instructions made by employees of the COUNTY or its authorized representatives in regard to this IFB. If the Q&A deadline has passed, a Bidder may contact the

COUNTY directly if necessary at mhall02@seminolecountyfl.gov. The COUNTY reserves the right to reject any questions sent after the Q&A deadline.

3.7. Addenda

Should revisions to the IFB documents become necessary, the COUNTY will post Addenda information on the COUNTY's e-Procurement Portal. The COUNTY’s e-Procurement Portal will issue an automated email notification to all “Followers” on the IFB’s Followers list. All Bidders should check the COUNTY's Website or notify Michael Hall to verify information regarding

Addenda. Failure to do so may result in rejection of the Bidder’s submitted bid and a determination as “Non-Responsive”. By execution of the Formal Notice for this IFB, the Bidder acknowledges receipt of all Addenda issued under this solicitation. Addenda information will be posted on the COUNTY’s Website (https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/seminolefl). It is the sole responsibility of the Bidder to ensure that they obtain information related to any Addenda.

3.8. Selection Process and Award

The award will be made in the best interest of the COUNTY, as determined by the COUNTY, based upon the low total price and/or line-item by line-item, to the Lowest Responsible Bidder(s) that meet the requirements listed in this solicitation. The COUNTY will determine the method that will more benefit the organization. The Bidder(s) understands that this Bid does not constitute an agreement or a contract with the Bidder. The COUNTY reserves the right to reject all bids/proposals, make multiple awards (award to more than one vendor), make a partial award, to waive formalities, to re-solicit and advertise for new bids/proposals, or to cancel the project in its entirety. In evaluating Bids, the COUNTY shall consider the information provided by the Apparent Low Bidder as described in these "INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS." Any of the following causes may be considered as sufficient grounds for disqualification of a Bidder or the rejection of a Bid:

(a) Submission of more than one (1) Bid for the same Work by any entity under the same or different names.

(b) Evidence of collusion among Bidders.

(c) Submission of an unbalanced Bid in which prices quoted for some items are out of proportion to the prices quoted for other or similar items in the same Bid.

(d) Lack of responsibility as shown by past Work from the standpoint of life safety including, but not limited to, strict adherence to all maintenance of traffic requirements of COUNTY, workmanship, progress and financial irresponsibility.

(e) Uncompleted Work for which the Apparent Low Bidder is committed by contract which might hinder or prevent the prompt completion of Work under this Bid if an Agreement would have been awarded to the Apparent Low Bidder.

(f) Falsification of any entry made on the Bid Documents shall be deemed a material irregularity and will be grounds, at the COUNTY's option, for disqualification of the Apparent Low Bidder or rejection of the Bid.

(g) This section shall be construed liberally to benefit the public and not the Apparent Low

Bidder; however, any other evidence which may hinder or otherwise delay completion of the

Project may be grounds for disqualification.

(h) Non-compliance with the submittal requirements of these Instructions to Bidders.

AWARD CRITERIA: The recommendation of award will be based on, but not limited to the following criteria:

(a) The ability, capacity, and skill of the Apparent Low Bidder to perform the Work.

(b) Whether the Apparent Low Bidder can perform the Work promptly, or within the time specified, without delay or interference.

(c) The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, and efficiency of the Apparent Low Bidder.

(d) The quality of performance of previous contracts or services to Seminole County or any other agency or client.

(e) The previous and existing compliance by the Apparent Low Bidder with Chapter 220, Seminole County Purchasing Code & Procedures, the life safety requirements of COUNTY, and other laws and ordinances, regulations.

(f) The sufficiency of the financial resources and ability of the Apparent Low Bidder to perform the Work.

(g) The quantity, availability, and adaptability of the Apparent Low Bidder to perform the

Agreement or service to the particular needs of the COUNTY.

(h) The ability of the Apparent Low Bidder to retain employees for the purpose of this Work.

(i) The experience of the Apparent Low Bidder performing in a similar manner as required by this Agreement. Minimum of three (3) satisfactory years shall be required.

(j) The type, structure, and experience of the local or branch management proposed.

(k) Quality Control Program.

(l) Claims and Litigation filed against the Apparent Low Bidder or filed by the Apparent Low

Bidder for equitable adjustment, contract claim or litigation in the past five (5) years.

(m) Reprimand of any nature or suspension by the Department of professional Regulation or any other regulatory agency or professional association within the last five (5) years.

3.9. Bid Preparation Costs

Neither the COUNTY nor its representatives shall be liable for any expenses incurred in connection with preparation of a response to this IFB. Proposers should prepare their proposals simply and economically, providing a straightforward and concise description of the Proposer's ability to meet the requirements of this IFB

3.10. Accuracy of Bid Information

By submission of a bid, Bidder acknowledges that they have carefully examined the IFB documents and agrees to furnish the services/products specified in the solicitation at the prices, rates or discounts as proposed. Bidders agree that their bid will remain firm for a period of up to one hundred twenty (120) days to allow the County adequate time to evaluate the submittals.

By submission of a bid, Bidder agrees to abide by all conditions of this bid and understands that a background investigation may be conducted by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Department prior to award. Bidder certifies that all information contained in their bid is truthful to the best of their knowledge and belief. Bidder further certifies that they are duly authorized to submit this bid on behalf of the vendor/Bidder as its act and deed and that the vendor/Bidder is ready, willing, and able to perform if selected.

3.11. Insurance

A misstatement or omission of a material fact, whether intentional or not, regarding the

Proposer's insurance coverage, policies or capabilities may be grounds for rejection of the

Bidder’s submitted proposal and rescission of any ensuing Award Agreement.

The COUNTY recommends that all Bidders review the insurance requirements listed within the Draft Term Contract with their insurance carriers. A copy of the insurance certificate shall be furnished to the COUNTY prior to the final execution of the COUNTY’s

Award Term Contract. The COUNTY reserves the right to reject the award to any Bidder that fails to provide the insurance as required within the COUNTY’s Term Contract.

3.12. Licenses

Bidders, both corporate and individual, must be fully licensed and certified for the type of work to be performed in the State of Florida at the time of submittal of Bid. Should the Bidder not be fully licensed and certified, its bid shall be rejected. Any permits, licenses, or fees required shall be the responsibility of the Bidder. No separate or additional payment will be made for these costs.

Adherence to all applicable code regulations, Federal, State, County, City, etc., are the responsibility of the Bidder.

The following licensing requirements shall apply when the applicable Florida Statute mandates specific licensing for Contractors engaged in the type of work covered by this solicitation. (a)

State of Florida, Department of Professional Regulation, Construction Industries Licensing

Board and licensed by other federal, state, regional, county or municipal agencies having jurisdiction over the specified construction work; (b) Said licenses shall be in the Bidder's name as it appears on the Official Bid Form. Bidder shall supply appropriate license numbers, with expiration dates, as part of their bid. Failure to hold and provide proof of proper licensing, certification and registration may be grounds for rejection of the bid; (c) Bidder shall provide copies of all applicable licenses with their Bid Proposal; and (d) Subcontractors contracted by the Prime Contractor shall be licensed in their respective fields to obtain construction permits from the County.

3.13. Occupational Safety and Health Act (O.S.H.A.)

In instances where such is applicable due to the nature of the bid matter with which this bid package is concerned, all material, equipment, etc., as proposed and offered by Bidders must meet and conform to all O.S.H.A. requirements; the Bidder's signature upon the bid proposal form being by this reference considered a certification of such fact.

3.14. Posting of the IFB's Recommendation and Intent to Award

The recommendation and intent to award for this IFB will be posted on the COUNTY’s Website

(https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/seminolefl) prior to submission for final approval of award. Failure to file a protest with the COUNTY’s Purchasing & Contracts Manager within the time prescribed in the COUNTY's Purchasing Code, Policies and Procedures shall constitute a waiver of proceedings.

3.15. Public Records

Upon recommendation and intent to award this IFB as posted to the COUNTY’s website or thirty

(30) calendar days after closing, bids are considered “public records" and shall be subject to the public disclosure regulations consistent with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes. Bidders must invoke the exemptions to disclosure provided by law in their response to the solicitation and must identify the data or other materials to be protected by separate envelope, and must state the reasons why such exclusion from public disclosure is necessary pursuant to the COUNTY’s, “Compliance With Public Records Law” Form, which is required as part of the IFB documents.

Ownership of all data, material, and documentation originated and prepared for the County pursuant to the IFB shall belong exclusively to the County and be subject to public inspection in accordance with the Public Records Law. Trade secrets or proprietary information submitted by a Bidder shall not be subject to public disclosure under the Public Records Law; however, the

Bidder must invoke the protection of this section prior to or upon submission of the data or other materials, and must identify the data or other materials to be protected and state the reasons why protection is necessary.

3.16. Prohibition Against Contingent Fees

It shall be unethical for any person to be retained, or to retain any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for the Bidder to solicit or secure the Term Contract for this IFB, and that it has not paid or agreed to pay any person, company, corporation, individual or firm, other than a bona fide employee working solely for the Bidder, any fee, commission, percentage, gift, or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from award or making of this Term Contract. For the breach or violation of this provision, the COUNTY shall have the right to terminate the Term Contract at its sole discretion, without liability and to deduct from the Term Contract price, or otherwise recover, the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift, or consideration.

3.17. Acceptance/Rejection/Disqualification

The COUNTY reserves the right to accept and make award to those Bidders, who in the opinion of the COUNTY, will be in the best interest of and/or the most advantageous to the COUNTY.

The COUNTY reserves the right to reject all bids/proposals, make multiple awards (award to more than one vendor), make a partial award, to re-solicit and advertise for new bids/proposals, or to cancel the project in its entirety. The COUNTY reserves the right to reject the bid of any

Bidder who has previously failed in the proper performance of an award or to deliver on time agreements of a similar nature or who, in the COUNTY's opinion, is not in a position to perform properly under this award. The COUNTY reserves the right to inspect all facilities of Bidders to make a determination as to the available resources to perform properly under this award. The

COUNTY reserves the right to waive any irregularities, informalities, and technicalities and may, at its discretion, issue a re-procurement.

More than one (1) bid from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation, or association under the same or different names will not be considered. Reasonable grounds for believing that a Bidder is involved in more than one proposal submittal will be cause for rejection of all bids in which such Bidders are believed to be involved. Any or all bids will be rejected if there is reason to believe that collusion exists between Bidders. Bids in which the prices obviously are unbalanced will be subject to rejection.

3.18. Additional Terms and Conditions

Unless expressly accepted by the County, only the terms and conditions in this document shall apply: No additional terms and conditions included with the bid response shall be considered.

Any and all such additional terms and conditions shall have no force and effect, and are inapplicable to this bid if submitted either purposely through intent or design, or inadvertently appearing separately in transmittal letters, specifications, literature, price lists or warranties. It is understood and agreed that the general and/or any special conditions in these Bid Documents and any addenda issued under this solicitation are the only conditions applicable to this bid and the Bidder's authorized signature on the Bid Response Form attests to this. Exceptions to the terms and conditions will not be accepted.

3.19. Responsibility

The County reserves the right, before award, to require a Bidder to submit such evidence of his qualifications as it may deem necessary, and may consider any evidence available such as financial, technical, and other qualifications and abilities of the Bidder, including past performance and experience with the County. This information may be used to determine the

Bidder’s responsibility.

3.20. Bids to Remain Firm

All Bids shall remain firm for a minimum of one hundred twenty (120) days after the day of the

Bid opening to allow for the evaluation and selection process and proper execution of the

Agreement. Extensions of time when Bids shall remain opened beyond the one hundred twenty-day period may be made only by mutual agreement between Seminole County and the Selected

Bidder. The successful Contractor must maintain the bid prices firm for a minimum of one (1) year after the contract is executed. No cost increase will be authorized during the first year of the agreement.

3.21. Purchasing Code

Seminole County Code Chapter 220 (Purchasing Code), Administrative Code Section 3.55

(Purchasing Policy), and County Manager Policies apply to this IFB in their entirety.

3.22. Affirmation

By submission of a bid, the Bidder affirms that their bid is made without prior understanding, agreement or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a bid for the same materials, supplies, equipment or services, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. The Bidder agrees to abide by all conditions of this IFB and the resulting Term

Contract as prepared by Seminole County.

3.23. Mistakes in the Bid

Bidders are expected to examine the terms and conditions, specifications, delivery schedule, bid prices, extensions and all instructions pertaining to supplies and services. Failure to do so will be at Bidder's risk. In the event of extension error(s), the unit price will prevail, and the Bidder's total offer will be corrected accordingly. Written amounts shall take precedence over numerical amounts. In the event of addition errors(s), the unit price, and extension thereof, will prevail and the Bidder's total offer will be corrected accordingly. Bids having erasures or corrections must be initialed in ink by the Bidder.

3.24. Governmental Restrictions

In the event that any governmental restrictions are imposed which would necessitate alteration of the material quality, workmanship or performance of the items offered on this bid prior to their delivery, it shall be the responsibility of the Bidder to notify the Purchasing and Contracts

Division at once, indicating in his/her letter the specific regulation which required an alteration, including any price adjustments occasioned thereby. The County reserves the right to accept such alteration or to cancel the contract or purchase order at no further expense to the County.

3.25. Drug-Free WorkPlace Compliance

Bidder shall comply with Section 287.087, Florida Statutes, and failure to comply shall result in rejection/disqualification of the bid and all agreements as a result of this solicitation.

3.26. Public Entity Crime

Any Person or affiliate, as defined in Section 287.133, Florida Statutes, shall not be allowed to contract with the COUNTY, nor be allowed to enter into a subcontract for Work on this Project, if such a person or affiliate has been convicted of a public entity crime within three (3) years from the date this Project was advertised for Proposal, or if such person or affiliate was listed on the

State's convicted vendor list, within three (3) years of the date this Project was advertised, whichever time period is greater. A public entity crime means a violation of any state or federal law with respect to and directly related to the transaction of business with any public entity or agency (federal, state or local), including but not limited to, any contract for the construction or repair of a public building or public work involving antitrust, fraud, theft, bribery, collusion, racketeering, conspiracy, forgery, falsification of records, receiving stolen property or material misrepresentation. Any Agreement with the COUNTY obtained in violation of this Section shall be subject to termination for cause. A sub-contractor who obtains a subcontract in violation of this Section shall be removed from the Project and promptly replaced by a sub-contractor acceptable to the COUNTY.

3.27. Uniform Commercial Code

The Uniform Commercial Code (Florida Statutes, Chapter 672) shall prevail as the basis for contractual obligations between the Bidder and the County for any terms and conditions not specifically stated in this solicitation.

3.28. Proprietary/Restrictive Specifications

Bidder, who feels the specifications contained herein are proprietary or restrictive in nature, thus potentially resulting in reduced competition, must notify the Purchasing and Contracts Division of their rejection upon receipt of this IFB and prior to the due date.

3.29. Payment Terms/Discounts

The County’s payment terms are in accordance with Section 218, Part VII, Florida Statutes, Florida Prompt Payment Act. Cash discounts for prompt payment shall not be considered in determining the lowest net cost for evaluation purposes.

3.30. Price Redeterminations

1. During the Renewal Term: Petitions for price redeterminations must be made at the time of

County’s notification to the Contractor of the renewal period. Any such petition must be made pursuant to the provisions of this Section and only for those price redetermination categories specified herein. Unless otherwise expressly set forth in this document, no other price redeterminations will be allowed. All price redeterminations will be approved by a duly executed amendment to the Contract to reflect the new prices for the renewal term.

2. Outside the Renewal Term: Petitions for price redeterminations must be made within thirty

(30) days of the anniversary date of the Contract. Any such petition must be made pursuant to the provisions of this Section and only for those price redetermination categories specified herein. Unless otherwise expressly set forth in this document, no other price redeterminations will be allowed. All price redeterminations will be approved by a duly executed amendment to the Contract.

BASIS FOR PRICE REDETERMINATIONS. The Contractor may petition the Purchasing and

Contracts Division for price redetermination based on the increased costs of wages, fuel, or materials. Price redeterminations will be based solely upon changes in pricing or costs documented by either the Employment Cost Index (ECI) or Producer Price Index (PPI), whichever is applicable, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The base index number for the ECI will be for the quarter in which the solicitation opens. The base index number for the

PPI will be for the month the solicitation opens. Any subsequent price redeterminations will use the last price redetermination approved for that price redetermination category as the "base index number." The County shall have the right to audit the Contractor's records, including, but not limited to, payroll, materials, and fuel cost records, to verify or otherwise investigate the validity of any price redetermination request.

WAGE PRICE REDETERMINATION. When requesting a price redetermination based upon an increase in wage costs, the Contractor shall refer to and utilize the Pay & Benefits, Employment

Cost Index, Private Industry, Compensation as prepared by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the

U.S. Department of Labor available at www.bls.gov.

MINIMUM WAGE PRICE REDETERMINATION. If the minimum wage increases during the term of the Contract, including any renewal or extension period thereunder, the Contractor may petition the Purchasing and Contracts Division for price redetermination for those job categories where the pay to the Contractor's employee(s) is the current minimum wage. Upon verification of the information provided, the County will grant an increase of exactly the amount of the minimum wage increase (not the percentage increase). The Contractor must increase the pay to the employee(s) by the amount the Contractor has requested, which shall not exceed the amount of the minimum wage increase. The amount paid to the Contractor will be the increase plus any written and documented increase in FICA, Medicare, and Workers' Compensation insurance. The Contractor must supply written documentation of any other increase that is beyond the scope and control of the Contractor. All written documentation must satisfy the reasonable expectations of the Purchasing and Contracts Division.

• Example: Minimum wage increases from $7.31 to $7.56 per hour. The Contractor may petition for an increase of $0.25 per hour to be paid to the affected employee(s) and shall provide written and documented cost increases for FICA, Medicare and Workers' Compensation. The resulting increase in costs shall be incorporated into fees/rates billed to the County.

If the Contractor bills the County at a higher price according to any price redetermination granted by the County, and the Contractor fails to increase the hourly rate paid to the employee for the same period, the Contractor will be considered in Contract default and the Contract will be immediately terminated.

FUEL PRICE REDETERMINATION. If and when the price of fuel increases by a minimum of ten (10%) percent, the Contractor may petition the Purchasing and Contracts Division for a fuel price redetermination. As a condition of petitioning for a fuel price increase, the Contractor shall be required to petition for a fuel price redetermination decrease if and when the price of fuel decreases by a minimum often (10%) percent. Failure to make such petition may be grounds for

Contract termination and shall entitle the County to a refund of the cumulative increase in pay to the Contractor due to any prior fuel price redetermination increase(s). Fuel price redetermination must be based solely upon changes as documented by the Producer Price Index (PPI) for the commodity "Gasoline - WPU057".

MATERIALS PRICE REDETERMINATION. At the anniversary date of the Agreement, the

Contractor may petition the Purchasing and Contracts Division for a materials price redetermination. As a condition of petitioning for a materials price increase, the Contractor shall be required to petition for a materials price redetermination decrease if/when the price of materials used by the Contractor in connection with the Contract decreases. Failure to make such petition may be grounds for Contract termination and shall entitle the County to a refund of the cumulative increase in pay to the Contractor due to any prior materials price redetermination increase(s). Materials price redetermination must be based solely upon changes as documented by the Producer Price Index (PPI) under Inflation & Prices, Industry Data, Construction Machinery Mfg. PCU 333120333120, as published by the Bureau of Labor

Statistics.

PRICE REDETERMINATION CALCULATION. All Price Redeterminations shall be calculated as follows:

Example: Contractor indicated on the Submittal Form that fourteen percent (14%) of the cost to provide the product/service is directly attributed to the redetermination category (wages, fuel, or materials).

PPI in the month the solicitation closed was 158.73 264.52

Current PPI is 264.52 -158.73

105.79

105.79 divided by 158.73 = .666%

The unit cost of the service is $100.00

14% of $100.00 = $14.00

$14.00 x .666 = $9.32

The New Unit Price for the service is $109.32 ($100.00 + $9.32)

EXPIRATION UPON FAILURE TO AGREE TO PRICE REDETERMINATION. If the County and the Contractor cannot agree to a price redetermination pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Section, then the Contract will automatically expire without penalty or further expense to either party after a period of six (6) months following the Contractor's initial request for such price redetermination.

Requests for price redeterminations not made in accordance with the provisions of this Section shall be deemed null and void and shall not be a valid reason or pretext for expiration or termination of the Contract. If the contract expires pursuant to the terms and conditions of this

Section, the County reserves the right, at no expense, penalty, or consequence to the County, to award any remaining tasks thereunder to the next available most responsive and responsible

Contractor.

3.31. Purchasing Agreements With Other Governmental Agencies

All Applicants submitting a response to this solicitation agree that such response also constitutes a submittal to all governmental agencies within the State of Florida, under the same conditions, for the same contract price, and for the same effective period as this proposal, should the Applicant feels it is in their best interest to do so. Each governmental agency desiring to accept these submittals, and make an award thereof, shall do so independently of any other governmental agency. Each agency shall be responsible for its own purchases and each shall be liable only for materials and/or services ordered and received by it, and no agency assumes any liability by virtue of this solicitation. This agreement in no way restricts or interferes with the right of any governmental agency to re-solicit any or all items.

3.32. Quantities

Seminole County will not be held to any maximum or minimum purchase quantities as a result of this solicitation and/or resulting contract. Seminole County reserves the right to purchase any;

all, or none, of its requirements from vendors awarded a contract as a result of this solicitation.

All quantities as shown are approximate and no guarantee is made. Except as this contract may otherwise provide, if the County’s requirements do not result in orders in the quantities described as “estimated” in the contract’s price schedule, that fact shall not constitute the basis for an equitable adjustment.

3.33. Price/Delivery

Price(s) quoted must be the price(s) for new merchandise unless otherwise specified. Any bids containing escalator clauses will not be considered unless specifically requested in the bid specifications.

Delivery shall be during the normal working hours of the user department, Monday through

Friday, unless otherwise specified and incorporated into contract or purchase order document.

F.O.B. POINT: The F.O.B. point shall be destination. The prices bid shall include all costs of loading, transporting, delivery and to designated point(s) within Seminole County.

Deliveries resulting from this bid are to be made during the normal working hours of the County.

Time is of the essence and the Contractor’s delivery date must be specified and adhered to.

Should the Contractor, to whom the order or contract is awarded, fail to deliver on or before the stated date, the County reserves the right to cancel the order or contract and make the purchase elsewhere and the Contractor will be required to compensate the County for the difference in price paid for the alternate product. The Contractor shall be responsible for making all claims against carriers for missing or damage items. Partial shipments will be acceptable unless otherwise stated.

3.34. Bid Forms

All bids must be submitted on the County’s standard Bid Response Form. Bids on Bidder’s quotation forms shall not be accepted.

3.35. Method of Ordering

The County shall issue Purchase Orders against the contract on an as needed basis for the supplies or services listed on the Bid Proposal Form.

The County reserves the right to reject all bids/proposals, make multiple awards (award to more than one vendor), make a partial award, to re-solicit and advertise for new bids/proposals, or to cancel the project in its entirety.

4. Instructions for the Preparation of Bids

The Bidder(s) warrants its response to this Invitation for Bid to be fully disclosed and correct.

The firm must submit a bid complying with this Invitation for Bid, and the information, documents and material submitted in the bid must be complete and accurate in all material aspects. Bidders are advised to carefully follow the instructions listed below to be considered fully responsive to this Bid. Bidders are further advised that lengthy or overly verbose or redundant submissions are not necessary.

Compliance with all requirements will be solely the responsibility of the Bidder. Failure to provide requested information may result in disqualification of response.

4.1. Type of Business*

☐ Corporation

☐ Joint Venture

☐ Partnership

☐ Proprietorship

*Response required

4.2. Type in your Legal Entity Name Here.*

This name will be verified against the Secretary of State website.

*Response required

4.3. Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN)*

*Response required

4.4. Incorporated in the State of ________.*

Ex.) Florida

*Response required

4.5. List of Principals*

*Response required

4.6. Upload evidence of authority to do business in the State of Florida.* Acceptable form of evidence includes Secretary of State download, or Certificate of Status.

*Response required

4.7. Past Performance*

Vendor must submit a minimum of three (3) references of current clients; each reference must include client information, contact person, telephone number and current email address, and a brief summary of the contract awarded.

*Response required

4.8. Summary of Litigation*

*Response required

4.9. License Sanctions*

Regulatory/license agency sanctions within the past 5 years.

(If Proposer prefers to upload a file, upload in next question and enter "see file upload" in this field)

*Response required

4.10. License Sanctions

Regulatory/license agency sanctions within the past 5 years.

4.11. Conflict of Interest Statement*

I certify that I am an authorized representative (the Affiant) of my company (the Entity submitting this response) to sign and submit this statement on my company's behalf.

My company is submitting an Expression of Interest for the Seminole County project described as Utility Bill Printing Services.

The Affiant has made diligent inquiry and provides the information contained in this Affidavit based upon his/her own knowledge.

The Affiant states that only one submittal for the above project is being submitted and that the above-named entity has no financial interest in any other entities submitting proposals for the same project.

Neither the Affiant nor the above named entity has directly or indirectly entered into any agreement, participated in any collusion, or otherwise taken any action in restraint of free competitive pricing in connection with the entity's submittal for the above project. This statement restricts the discussion of pricing data until the completion of negotiations and execution of the

Agreement for this project.

Neither the entity nor its affiliates, nor anyone associated with them, is presently suspended or otherwise ineligible from participating in contract lettings by any local, state, or federal agency.

Neither the entity, nor its affiliates, nor anyone associated with them have any potential conflict of interest due to any other clients, contracts, or property interests for this project.

The Affiant certifies that no member of the entity's ownership, management, or staff has a vested interest in any aspect of or Department of Seminole County.

The Affiant certifies that no member of the entity's ownership or management is presently applying for an employee position or actively seeking an elected position with Seminole County.

The Affiant certifies that no member of the entity’s ownership or management is currently serving as a member of any Seminole County advisory board(s) or committee(s), or alternatively, state the individual(s) name(s), who is a member of the above-named entity’s ownership or management, and is currently serving as a member, and on which Seminole

County advisory board(s) or committee(s) they are currently serving as a member, in the following question.

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have read the foregoing Conflict of Interest Form and that the facts stated in it are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

☐ Please confirm

4.12. Conflict of Interest Statement Cont...*

A. Enter the name(s) of the individual(s) who is serving on a Seminole County advisory board(s) or committee(s).

B. Enter the Seminole County advisory board(s) or committee(s) that the individual(s) is serving as a member.

• If this is not applicable, type "N/A."

*Response required

4.13. Compliance with the Public Records Law*

Seminole County shall comply with the Public Records Law as provided by Chapter 119, Florida

Statutes, and all applicable amendments. Applicants must invoke the exemptions to disclosure provided by law in the response to the solicitation and must identify the data or other materials to be protected separately, and must state the reasons why such exclusion from public disclosure is necessary. The submission of a response authorizes release of your firm’s credit data to Seminole County.

If the company submits information exempt from public disclosure, the company must identify why the information is exempt from the Public Records Act, identifying the specific exemption section that applies to each. The protected information must be submitted to the County separately in the "Confidential Files" section if the information qualifies as “EXEMPT FROM

PUBLIC RECORDS LAW”. Failure to identify protected material separately will cause the

County to release this information in accordance with the Public records Law despite any markings on individual pages of your submittal/proposal.

A. CONTRACTOR acknowledges COUNTY’s obligations under Article 1, Section 24, Florida Constitution and Chapter 119, Florida Statues, to release public records to members of the public upon request. CONTRACTOR acknowledges that COUNTY is required to comply with Article 1, Section 24, Florida Constitution and Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, in the handling of the materials created under this Agreement and that said statute controls over the terms of this Agreement.

B.…