Aquatic Vegetation Control

The Pinellas County School District is soliciting sealed electronic bids for Aquatic Vegetation Control services, seeking a contractor to manage vegetation in wetland mitigation areas and storm water systems across 40 school locations. The contract will cover approximately 86.93 acres and requires comprehensive treatment using non-toxic herbicides, with potential application methods including shore, boat, or drone techniques. Bidders must possess a "Specialty Contractor" license and aquatic pest control certification, and demonstrate expertise in environmental compliance and detailed treatment record-keeping. A mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for February 26, 2025, at the Walter Pownall Service Center, with electronic bids due by 3:00 pm on March 14, 2025, through the district's OpenGov Procurement portal. The contract term will run from April 22, 2025, to April 23, 2026, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods. Evaluation will focus on identifying the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with the procurement structured as an all-or-none contract. Bidders must submit comprehensive documentation, including insurance certificates, references, key personnel resumes, and E-Verify employment eligibility verification.

While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, the procurement emphasizes comprehensive qualifications and compliance requirements. Contractors must provide insurance coverage meeting detailed specifications, including General Liability Insurance with minimum limits varying based on project value (from $1,000,000 per occurrence to $5,000,000 general aggregate). The estimated contract value is approximately $75,000 per year, with actual purchases potentially varying. Insurance requirements include filing Certificates of Insurance with the School Board, listing the board as an "Additional Insured" and "Certificate Holder," and using insurance companies with a Best's Financial Strength Rating of "A-V" or better. The district will give consideration to pricing established by the State of Florida Department of Management Services, and reserves the right to adjust contract terms based on market volatility. Bidders must register on the OpenGov Procurement portal to receive automatic notifications about the solicitation, with the procurement contact being Hope Olda, reachable at oldah@pcsb.org.