Integrated Pest Management

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education (CMBE) is requesting proposals for an Integrated Pest Management Program serving school cafeterias across the district, with proposals due July 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EST. CMBE will evaluate offers based on demonstrated capability and IPM methodology (35%), total cost (30%), verifiable institutional food-service experience and references (20%), and quality of reporting and response speed (15%).

The scope covers routine pest management services at 101 elementary schools, 29 middle schools, 33 traditional high schools, 1 food service warehouse, and 1 School Nutrition Office, with service visits every four weeks during after-school hours. The program must emphasize prevention, monitoring, sanitation, exclusion, and targeted treatment strategies; chemical controls are used only when necessary and in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. All pesticides must be EPA-registered and labeled for food-service establishments, with preference given to low-toxicity methods including gel baits, insect growth regulators, and monitoring devices.

The initial contract term is three years beginning September 1, 2026, or upon final contract execution, whichever is later, with options to renew for up to three additional one-year terms at CMBE's sole discretion. CMBE reserves the right to award to a single vendor or make separate awards for individual line items based on best value. Contractors must maintain valid North Carolina Commercial Pesticide Applicator Licenses, provide 24-hour emergency service availability, and meet stated insurance requirements. Minority, Women's, and Small Business Enterprise participation is encouraged with a 10% utilization goal for diverse firms as subcontractors.

Written questions are due July 16, 2026, with responses provided by July 20, 2026. Vendors must submit pricing using the provided Pest Control Price Sheet with both unit and lump-sum pricing; prices are held firm for 365 days from the contract effective date. The contract includes quarterly cost summaries, a quality control program, and continuous improvement initiatives.