Grant Support Services for Public Work Engineering

Leon County, Florida is soliciting proposals for Grant Support Services through RFP BC-2026-024, seeking multiple qualified firms to provide on-demand support for grant-related activities primarily managed by the Public Works Division of Engineering Services, though other County divisions and constitutional offices may also utilize the services during the contract term. The agreement will have an initial three-year term from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2029, with two optional one-year renewal periods, allowing for a potential five-year duration, renewals occurring automatically unless the County provides written notice of non-renewal at least 30 days prior to expiration. Contractors will be compensated based on unit pricing detailed in Exhibit B of their submitted proposal, with fees subject to a limiting amount requiring County approval for any excess; payment will follow Florida’s Local Government Prompt Payment Act and prefer direct deposit via ACH. The scope of work includes reviewing Notices of Funding Opportunity, identifying suitable grant projects, conducting benefit-to-cost analyses, developing project narratives, and compiling all required application documentation, performed by personnel categorized as Project Manager, Senior Engineer, Grant Specialist, and Secretary/Clerical. Contractors must meet stringent compliance, insurance, and operational requirements, including maintaining general liability, automobile liability, workers’ compensation, and professional liability insurance with minimum coverage of $1 million each, naming the County as additional insured, and using insurers with a Best’s rating of at least A:VII. All subcontractors must also be covered under these insurance provisions. Independent contractor status is mandated, and contractors must be registered with the Florida Department of State, comply with E-Verify for employment eligibility verification, and certify they do not employ unauthorized aliens under federal law. Additional mandatory certifications include adherence to Florida statutes prohibiting the use of County funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion training, compliance with public entity crime restrictions, and a sworn statement that the proposal is not collusive. Contractors are responsible for securing all necessary permits and must maintain records for a minimum of five years, subject to audit by County, state, or federal authorities. The County reserves the right to inspect records, interview employees, and terminate immediately for cause, such as false certification or unauthorized alien employment, or with 30 days’ notice for convenience. Proposals are evaluated on a weighted scale prioritizing the firm’s approach to projects (30%), relevant experience (25%), professional personnel (20%), agency cost (10%), willingness to meet schedule and budget (5