Milk for State Mental Health Treatment Facilities

The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has issued an Invitation to Bid (ITB 2526 010) for milk procurement targeting three state mental health treatment facilities: Florida State Hospital, Northeast Florida State Hospital, and North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center. The solicitation seeks a vendor to provide weekly milk deliveries on Tuesdays and Fridays, with specific requirements for various milk types including 2% white reduced fat, skim milk (white and chocolate), whole milk, and lactose-free 1% milk in pint cartons and gallon containers. All milk must be U.S. Grade A, homogenized, and pasteurized, with estimated monthly quantities ranging from 240 to 34,800 pint cartons per facility. The contract will run from September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2030, with responses due by August 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. and a public response opening scheduled for 11:00 a.m. via video conference. Evaluation criteria will focus on selecting the responsible and responsive bidder submitting the lowest bid, with mandatory submission of Required Certifications (PMT-58), Technical Response (PMT-59), and Cost Proposal (PMT-60). Respondents must complete specific requirements including registration with the Florida Department of State and submission of a Florida Substitute Form W-9.

The solicitation emphasizes commitment to diversity, encouraging subcontracting opportunities with woman-, veteran-, and minority-owned business enterprises. Potential bidders can gain tiebreaking advantages by certifying as a Minority Business Enterprise, Veteran Business Enterprise, or Florida Business. Strict communication guidelines are in place during the bidding process, and vendors must comply with E-Verify requirements and background check procedures. Financial considerations include a 0.7% transaction fee for MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) registration and potential penalties of $100 per non-compliance instance. While specific award value is not explicitly stated, the five-year contract suggests a substantial procurement opportunity. The department reserves the right to expand the scope of services if additional needs and funding become available. Vendors must demonstrate organizational capabilities, provide references, and disclose any potential conflicts of interest. The procurement process is structured to ensure comprehensive vendor evaluation and selection of a qualified milk supplier for these state mental health treatment facilities.