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Award of Term Contract to Bio-Tech Consulting, LLC, for Removal and Disposal of Invasive Plant Species for Department of Public Works (Contract No. 26-T01215; Amount: $240,000)
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The Procurement Department issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 26-T01215 on March 18, 2026, at the request of the Hernando County Department of Public Works, to obtain bids for Invasive Plant Species Removal and Related Services.
The Procurement Department placed the legal advertisement in the Hernando Sun on March 20, 2026, and the OpenGov website on March 18, 2026. The bid was sent to four hundred and fifty-seven (457) matching vendor/contractors from the website. The bid document was downloaded by thirty-two (32) vendors/contractors, and two (2) submissions were received.
BIDs RECEIVED:
Bio-Tech Consulting, LLC $35,250.00*
EarthBalance $88,540.00
Bids were reviewed and evaluated by the Procurement Department to determine if bids were responsive and responsible. The bids were then reviewed and evaluated by the Hernando County Department of Public Works for award recommendation based on price, conformance with specifications and the Bidder’s ability to perform the contract in accordance with the terms, conditions and specifications required.
A Notice of Intent to Award the contract to Bio-Tech Consulting dated May 4, 2026, was posted to the OpenGov website. The award is for a three (3) year contract with two (2), one (1) year unilateral renewals. No challenges to the Notice of Intent to Award were received.
This is an as needed contract, and the pricing is dependent on what services are needed (invasive plant removal or mangrove tree trimming). The $35,250 is the total bid price for all services but it is dependent on the quantity of plants removed, quantity of mangrove tree trims, cubic yards of plant packaging and removal, as well as multiple services needed within the fiscal year. Based on previous expenditures, the department is estimating $80,000.00 annually. The $240,000.00 is the estimated total spend for three years under the contract.
The Chief Procurement Officer has reviewed this requirement for conformance to Procurement Ordinance and Purchasing Policies and Procedures.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
Strategic Theme: C - Stewardship of Natural Resources
GOAL C.2 Utilize areas of conservation lands, forestry, and waterways for passive recreational opportunities
OBJECTIVE C.2.1 Identify and prioritize passive recreational enhancement opportunities aligned with the County’s Parks Master Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Management Plan.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Funding in the amount of $80,000 will be included in the FY27 budget in the following:
Expense:
Fund: Transportation Trust Fund - B101, Department: DPW-Road Maintenance - 181, Account: Contracted Services - 533401
LEGAL NOTE
In accordance with Chapter 2, Article V of the Hernando County Code of Ordinances.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached agreement for award to Bio-Tech Consulting LLC for (Contract No. 26-T01215) in the estimated three-year contract of $240,000.00 with an estimated annual spend of $80,000.00.
It is further recommended the Board authorize the Chief Procurement Officer to approve change orders, as necessary and required up to the allowable budgeted amounts, and to renew the contract with the same terms and conditions.