Term Contract for Utility Rate Studies for Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste

Seminole County Environmental Services is seeking proposals for a term contract to provide annual consulting services for utility rate studies covering water, wastewater, reclaimed water, and solid waste systems. The solicitation (RFP-604586-23/MPG) aims to identify a qualified consulting firm to perform comprehensive utility rate and financial analyses through task order-based assignments. Key deliverables include assistance with forecasting, rate design, financial planning, and other utility-related consulting services. The evaluation process will use a points-based scoring methodology across four primary criteria: experience (25 points), ability and capacity (20 points), performance (20 points), and price proposal (35 points). Proposals are due on August 2, 2023, at 1:00 pm, with a deadline for questions set for July 21, 2023. Proposers must submit detailed documentation including a letter of transmittal, statement of qualifications, project understanding, and comprehensive pricing details. The contract will have an initial three-year term with potential for two one-year renewals.

The procurement does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Proposers must comply with E-Verify requirements, verifying employment eligibility for all new employees and subcontractors through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify system. Contractors will be required to maintain various insurance coverages, including professional liability insurance with a $1,000,000 limit, workers' compensation, commercial general liability, and business auto policy. While no specific budget range is directly stated, the contract allows for task orders with compensation on a fixed fee or time basis, with individual purchase orders specifying not-to-exceed amounts. The county reserves the right to evaluate current financial statements, compliance capabilities, and past performance before making an award. Potential contractors should be prepared to handle potential FEMA-funded projects, as the county has included additional terms for contracts that might involve federal disaster relief funding.