Active SLED Opportunity · NEW JERSEY · TOWNSHIP OF MIDDLETOWN

    Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid

    Issued by Township of Middletown
    cityIFBTownship of MiddletownSol. 243098
    Open · 4d remaining
    DAYS TO CLOSE
    4
    due Apr 28, 2026
    PUBLISHED
    Apr 6, 2026
    Posting date
    JURISDICTION
    Township of
    city
    NAICS CODE
    561730
    AI-classified industry

    AI Summary

    The Township of Middletown, NJ, invites bids for tree trimming, removal, and related services including stump grinding and emergency response. Contractors must have certified arborists, required equipment, and comply with local regulations. Bids due April 28, 2026, submitted electronically via OpenGov.

    Opportunity details

    Solicitation No.
    243098
    Type / RFx
    IFB
    Status
    open
    Level
    city
    Published Date
    April 6, 2026
    Due Date
    April 28, 2026
    NAICS Code
    561730AI guide
    Agency
    Township of Middletown

    Description

    The Township is seeking bids for the furnishing of labor and equipment to perform on call pruning and removal of trees and shrubs.

    Project Details

    • Reference ID: 2026-Bid-03R
    • Department: Public Works
    • Department Head: Ted Maloney (Township Engineer – Director of Public Works)

    Important Dates

    • Questions Due: 2026-04-14T20:00:23.257Z
    • Answers Posted By: 2026-04-16T20:00:00.000Z

    Addenda

    • Addendum #1 (released 2026-04-15T13:22:46.243Z) —

      TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR

      Contract # 2026-Bid-03R

      Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid

       

      ADDENDUM NO. 1

      To all concerned:

       

      The original Specifications for the above project prepared April 2026 are amended as noted here in this Addendum No. 1.

       

      CONCERNING THE BID SPECIFICATIONS:

       

      The Specifications for the contract have been amended as follows:

       

      1. Responses to Requests for Information
        1. Can the township please clarify the differences between the original bid posting and this rebid?
          1. This bid includes the hourly rate for a crane.  It also includes more details on the required equipment, certifications, response time and methods & materials in general.  This bid is a standalone bid and requires no link or reference to the previous bid.
        2. Does this project require prevailing wage rates? If so, can the township please provide the certified payroll from the previous three years?
          1. No part of this contract will be associated with any public work.  Prevailing wage is not required.
        3. The pricing asks for hourly rates. Are these rates portal to portal, or on the jobsite only? Do they include travel between two sites on the same day? For instance, if a tree is marked for removal on Monmouth Ave, and another on Leonardville Road, and we complete both the same day, do we have to deduct travel time between the two sites?
          1. The hourly rates are for time on the job site only.
        4. Regarding the Line Clearance Arborist Certification, would the Electrical Hazards Awareness Program, (EHAP) be sufficient to satisfy this requirement?
          1. Electrical Hazards Awareness Program (EHAP) certification, or other equivalent industry standard electric line training certification will be accepted.

       

      All vendors who obtained the bid specifications on or prior to this date of notice have been provided this Addendum as required.  The Addenda Acknowledgement confirmation on OpenGov must be completed.  The Addendum shall become part of the original specifications and contract and is to be attached thereto.

    Evaluation Criteria

    • Questions

      All questions must be submitted through the OpenGov procurement portal.

    • Introduction

      The Township of Middletown, County of Monmouth, State of New Jersey, hereinafter referred to as the “Township”, is seeking a Vendor to provide the services outlined in the attached bid document.

       

      It is the intent of the Township to select a qualified, experienced Vendor to produce and deliver a quality product at a fair and reasonable price in a timely fashion.  It is also the intent of the Township to select one Vendor to conduct all tasks required for development of the products necessary in this Request for Proposals (RFP) and to manage, enforce compliance, and schedule deliverables of any partners or sub-contractors selected by the Vendor.

       

      This RFP document sets forth applicable administrative requirements, a scope of services outlining proposal requirements, and general conditions and guidelines to be incorporated in an agreement between the Township and the selected Vendor.

       

      The detailed specifications are intended to provide prospective Vendors with the Township’s requirements for the services. 

    • DEFINITIONS

      Whenever in these specifications and contract, the following terms or pronouns in place of them, are used, the intent and meaning shall be interpreted as follows:

    • Proposals to Remain Subject to Acceptance

      RFP responses shall remain open for a period of sixty (60) calendar days from the stated submittal date.  The Township will either award the Contract within the applicable time period or reject all proposals.

       

      The Township may extend the decision to award or reject all proposals beyond the sixty calendar days when the proposals of any Respondents who consent thereto may, at the request of the Township, be held for consideration for such longer period as may be agreed.

    • Bid Bonds/Surety

      A bid bond and Surety ARE NOT required for any portion of this contract.

    • SUBMISSION OF BIDS

      A. Sealed bids shall be received by the Township of Middletown, herein referred to as “owner” in accordance with the public advertisement as required by law, with a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part of these specifications.

      B.  Sealed bids shall be received electronically by the designated representative at the time and location of bid opening as stated in the Notice to Bidders, and at such time and place will be publicly opened and read aloud. 

      C. It is the bidder’s responsibility to present bids to the owner prior to or at the time, and in the manner designated. Bids must be submitted through the Township's electronic bid portal located here: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/middletownnj.

      D. Sealed bids forwarded to the owner before the time of opening of bids may be withdrawn upon written application of the bidder, via certified mail, who shall be required to produce evidence showing that the individual is or represents the principal or principals involved in the bid. Once bids have been opened, they shall remain for a period of sixty (60) calendar days unless an extension is agreed to by the “owner” and the bidder(s).

      E. More than one bid from an individual, a firm or partnership, corporation or association under the same names shall not be considered.

      F. All prices and amounts must submitted via the pricing tables included with each bid document. Bids containing any conditions, omissions, unexplained erasures or alterations, items not called for in the bid proposal form, attachment of additive information not required by the specifications, or irregularities of any kind, may be cause for rejection by the owner in accordance with applicable law.

      G. Bidder should be aware of the following statutes that represent “Truth in Contracting” laws:                       

      • NJSA 2C:21-34, et seq. governs false claims and representations by bidders. It is a serious crime for the bidder to knowingly submit a false claim and/or knowingly submit a false claim and/or knowingly make material misrepresentation.
      • NJSA 2C:27-10 provides that a public servant commits a crime if said public servant solicits or receives a benefit directly or indirectly, for an official act performed or to be performed by a public servant, which is a violation of official duty.
      • NJSA 2C:27-11 provides that a bidder commits a crime if said person, directly or indirectly, confers or agrees to confer any benefit not allowed by law to a public servant.
      • Bidder should consult the statutes or legal counsel for further information.

      H. Pay-to-Play Disclosure- Business entities are advised of their responsibility to file an annual disclosure statement of political contributions with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) pursuant to NJSA19:44A-20-27 if they receive contracts in excess of $50,000 from public entities in a calendar year. Business entities are responsible for determining if filing is necessary, Additional information on this requirement is available from ELEC at 888-313-3532 or at www.elec.state.nj.us

    • BID BOND

      A guarantee payable to the Middletown Township that if the contract is awarded to a bidder, he will enter into a contract therefore and will furnish any performance bond or other security required as a guarantee or indemnification which may be in the form of a bond of a licensed surety company, cashier’s or certified check for 10% of the amount bid.

    • Scope of Work

      Scope of Work: Work to be performed under the terms of this contract includes, but is not limited to the removal of live, dead, dying, interfering, objectionable, weak, dangerous, or diseased trees; the correction of structural defects; crown cleaning; crown raising; crown thinning; stump removal; brush removal and removal of damaged limbs or trees; excavation of roots & stumps; herbicidal/insecticidal treatments to trees & roots; all work to be performed on Township property.

        1. In all cases, whether routine or emergency, the Township must be treated as a priority account and given preference over private contracts. Submission of a bid in response to this solicitation acknowledges acceptance of this condition.
        2. Contractor must have a minimum of 10 years experience operating as a tree removal & trimming contractor.
        3. Contractor shall follow specifications for tree removal and pruning as established by the Monmouth County Shade Tree Commission, International Society of Arboriculture, and to the satisfaction of the Director of Public Works.
        4. Hours of Work: All work exclusive of emergency needs will be performed Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, unless otherwise specified by the Township.
        5. Weekends/Holidays/Off Hours: The Contractor will only be requested to work off hours, weekends and/or holidays in the event of an emergency and will be paid emergency hourly rates to do so.

      Personnel:

      1. All crews dispatched for Township projects shall consist of no less than three (3) workers with one working foreman and licensed equipment operators as required for the project.
      2. Contractor must be registered with the Board of Tree Experts.
      3. Contractor must have at least one (1) licensed person at the principal office and one (1) licensed person per branch.
      4. Contractor shall provide a business registration (NJTC #) and Licensed Tree Care Operator (NJLTCO #) or Licensed Tree Expert (NJ LTE#) certificate(s).

      Crew members shall be skilled in all aspects of tree pruning and tree removal in accordance with industry standards and must be fully trained in tree work and project safety.  Contractor must have at least one employee with a Line Clearance Arborist Certification and an employee certified as a ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist. A list of employees with their credentials shall be provided to the Township upon execution of the agreement.

      Mandatory Equipment: Contractor shall own or long-term lease, so as to have ready and immediately available, all tools and equipment necessary for the performance of the work described herein.  All equipment must be inspected annually, and all inspection documentation shall be produced upon the request of the Director of Public Works. A full equipment list including make, model, tonnage, reach, horsepower rating, etc., as appropriate for each piece of equipment, shall be included with the bid proposal.

      Required equipment includes:

                1. Aerial bucket truck with minimum 75’ reach
                2. Brush chipper, 20” capacity or greater with grapple
                3. Chainsaws, minimum 16” to maximum 36” bar
                4. One Single-axle dump truck (minimum)
                5. One Tandem dump truck (minimum)
                6. Spider lift on tracks with 80-ft minimum reach and maximum 3-ft width to allow access through 3-ft-wide fence gates and walkways
                7. 40-ton Crane with minimum reach of 130-ft (main boom)
                8. Stump grinder, 80HP minimum
                9. Skid-steer with log grapple
                10. Backhoe & wheel loader for excavation
                11.  Track Excavator equivalent to Caterpillar 300 Series or larger
                12. Safety equipment such as cones, caution tape, barricades

      Safety:

            1. Egress and Protection of Property:
              1. The work performed under this contract shall be done with the least inconvenience to the Township and the general public as possible.  The amount of time that normal operations are interrupted must be kept to an absolute minimum and shall be coordinated with the Township on each job and at each location.
              2. The Contractor is responsible for protecting all existing and newly installed work, materials, equipment, improvements, utilities, structures and vegetation at all times during the course of this contract and any damage shall be remediated to the satisfaction of the Township.
            2. General Guidelines
              1. Contractor shall furnish all materials, equipment, insurance, transportation, traffic protection, labor and all else necessary therefore and incidental thereto.
              2. Contractor shall perform no services unless directed by the Director of Public Works or this authorized representative.
              3. Work orders designated as Non-Emergency by the Director of Public Works or his authorized representative shall commence within two (2) calendar days of receipt of a Township work order, unless a later start time is approved by the Director of Public Works. Once commenced, work must be completed without interruption, subject to State Labor Laws, during normal working hours, except if interrupted by an Emergency work order. Contractor shall under normal conditions, submit an estimate for all work orders received and be granted approval from the Director of Public Works or his authorized representative before commencing the job. Contractor shall hold harmless the Township of Middletown from any acts or conduct of its employees while on Township property or private property.
              4. Verbal work orders designated as an Emergency Response by the Director of Public Works or his authorized representative shall commence within one (1) hour of receipt of the verbal work order regardless of the day of the week or time of day. Such verbal work orders shall be followed by a written work order. A twenty-four (24) hour emergency telephone contact number (not an answering service) shall be supplied by the contractor upon execution of the Agreement. Any stump grinding associated with an Emergency Response work order shall be completed within 30 days of the tree removal.
              5. Contractor is responsible for requesting utility mark outs and coordinating with utility companies as needed.
              6. The scope, extent, pace and quality of work shall be to the satisfaction of the Director of Public Works, whose decisions on quality and acceptability of work performed by the contractor shall be final and binding.
              7. The Contractor must remove all brush and debris resulting from tree removal and other maintenance operations from the worksite by the end of the project.  Material may be brought to the Township Fire Academy Site located at 450 Normandy Road, Middletown, New Jersey, at no charge to the Contractor.
              8. The Contractor must not leave brush or debris in the public right-of-way overnight and must rake or brush the work site clean at the conclusion of every workday.
              9. All wood and brush identified as diseased by the Township must be removed from the site by the Contractor and must not be left for firewood or chips unless instructed by the Director of Public Works to do so.
              1. The disposal method for brush/debris must adhere to all pertinent local, state and federal rules, regulations and laws. Where feasible, it is preferred that debris is repurposed in a ‘green’ way, i.e. mulched or composted.
              2. The Contractor must not work on private property in the performance of these contract duties unless provided express written consent by the Director of Public Works / Township Engineer. The Contractor shall not solicit for work from private property owners during the hours in which the Contractor is performing services for the Township.
              3. The Township will not pay compensation for travel to the site to begin work in the morning or return travel at the conclusion of the workday. Travel compensation will be paid only if multiple job sites are visited during the workday, at the approval and discretion of the Director of Public Works / Township Engineer.
              4. Any questions as to pruning practices as well as contract productivity will be resolved by the Township and the decision will be final.
              5. During performance of work assigned under the terms of the contract, the Contractor may be required to perform the appropriate pruning/trimming/removal activity to branches that are in proximity to utility wires providing service to individual residences (house drops).  Any work performed within close proximity to wires requires the presence of the Contractor’s employee holding a Line Clearance Arborist Certification.
              6. If utility facilities or private properties are damaged by the contractor, he/she shall notify the owner(s), who may cause him/her to repair the damages or cause its repair by others at the contractor’s expense. If the cost thereof has not been paid by the contractor within thirty (30 days after billing, the Township may retain any amount sufficient to cover the cost from any monies due or to become due to the contractor. 
              7. No surcharges for fuel or any other items shall be charged to the Township.

      Tree Removal / Maintenance Trimming / Pruning

              1. Tree removal, routine trimming and pruning will be paid at the contracted hourly rate.  The hourly rate must be fully inclusive of all equipment, labor, personnel, travel, tools, fuel and overhead associated with the provision of a three (3) man crew for maintenance trimming/pruning of trees and brush.
              2. Tree removal, maintenance trimming/pruning shall include but not be limited to the removal of dead, dying, diseased, decaying, interfering, objectionable, obstructing, and weak trees & branches.
              3. The removal of such described branches shall include those both on the main trunk and within the crown.  Maintenance trimming/pruning/removal must follow the most recent standards and include the following:
                1. All cuts must be made as close as possible to the trunk or parent branch, without cutting into the branch collar or leaving a protruding stub.  Bark at the end of all pruning cuts should remain firmly attached.
                2. All branches too large to support with one (1) hand must be precut to avoid splitting or tearing of the bark. Where necessary, ropes or other equipment should be used to lower large branches or stubs to the ground.
                3. Sharp tools must be used so that clean cuts are made at all times. Equipment shall be sterilized as often as determined by industry best practices.
                4. Climbing hooks or spurs shall not be used so as to avoid damage to the bark or cambium layer of the plant.
                5. When crossing or rubbing of branches occurs, Contractor shall remove the weaker or less desirable branch where possible. Such removal should not leave large open spaces in the general outline of the tree.
                6. Where practical, all girdling root sections will be removed.
                7. The presence of any disease condition, fungus fruit bodies, decayed trunks or branches, split crotches or branches, severe bark inclusions, cracks or other structural weakness must be reported to the Director of Public Works who will recommend proper corrective measures. All diseased wood or chips will be removed from the site by the Contractor.
                8. To preserve symmetry and the aesthetic appearance of the tree when trimming, the Contractor shall endeavor to under-prune where practical, rather than remove entire branches back to the trunk or parent branch. If, however, the limb cannot be cut back to a property branch union that is at least one third (1/3) the diameter of the limb being removed, the entire limb shall be removed. Also, no limb shall be cut back to another limb that is at a 90-degree angle from the limb being removed.
                9. All trees and shrubs whose branches block the view of oncoming traffic shall be trimmed back far enough to allow the clear view of oncoming traffic.
                10. All branches obstructing the view of traffic control devices (i.e. signs) must be trimmed/removed as needed to create a clear line of sight.
                11. Trimming for obstruction clearance must allow for one (1) year’s normal growth.
                12. Crown reduction pruning may be necessary where there has been significant crown dieback, prior incorrect pruning or severe storm damage. Crown reduction pruning is the reduction of top, sides, or individual limbs by means of removal of the leader or longest portion of a limb to a lateral no less than one third (1/3) of the total diameter of the original limb.
                13. All attempts should be made to prune the tree to a shape typical of the species. Remove branches in such a manner as to leave the foliage pattern evenly distributed. In general, the top of the crown is to be higher than the sides to maintain a tree-like form.
                14. Minimally sufficient limbs will be removed to achieve the desired effect without admitting too much sunlight to the trunk or the top side of large branches.
              4. Tree removal, trimming, pruning and branch clean-up performed in the event of an emergency, as defined by the Director of Public Works / Township Engineer, will be paid at the emergency/off-hours hourly rate which must be fully inclusive of all equipment, labor, personnel, travel, tools, fuel and overhead associated with the provision of a three (3) man crew for the performance of work.
              5. All trees that cannot be safely felled without danger to traffic or potential injury to other plants or property shall be cut in sections from the top down (topped) and lowered by crane. Contractor must adhere to all best practices and take every precaution to avoid damage and /or injury to any persons and property.
              6. No tree shall be felled without prior approval granted by the Director of Public Works.
              7. Work deemed high priority shall commence within one (1) hour or as determined by the Director of Public Works / Township Engineer.
              8. Tree removal shall be performed by or be directly supervised by a New Jersey Licensed Tree Expert. It is required, that the Contractor maintains on staff, an ISA Certified Arborist.
              9. Wood chips, debris, or cut wood originating through this Agreement shall be delivered to a designated area at the Department of Public Works upon completion of each day’s work orders which originated the chips or wood. If the Department chooses not to accept any generated wood, the Contractor will be required to dispose of same.  No additional payment will be made for the removal or disposal of cut wood, wood chips or other debris.

      Stump Grinding

              1. Stump grinding/removal may be required at the time of tree removal at the direction of the Director of Public Works. Stump grinding to be performed as part of the project's overall tree removal work and shall be charged as part of the hourly crew rate. The fee shall be fully inclusive of all equipment, labor, personnel, travel, tools, fuel and overhead associated with the removal of all of the above ground portions of the tree.  Stump grinding services will only be performed during normal business hours, there is no anticipated instance by which stump grinding would be required on an emergency basis after hours.
              2. The Contractor shall be responsible for all utility mark-outs (by calling 811) to ensure utilities are marked prior to the start of work.
              3. Stumps are to be ground out to a minimum depth of six (6”) inches below the finished grade of turf and at a radius of 10 feet from the center of the tree. Full-depth grinding may be required by the Director of Public Works where replacement trees are to be planted at the site. 
              4. All exposed surface roots extending from the stump are to be ground until no longer visible. 
              5. The Contractor will leave a sufficient supply of chips to backfill the hole at three (3”) inches above finish grade to allow for settlement.  All excess chips will be removed and disposed by the Contractor unless otherwise permitted by the Director of Public Works.  No additional payments will be made for removal of debris and wood chips.
              6. Any potential conflicts with utilities either above or below ground are the responsibility of the Contractor to identify prior to excavation.  Any utility damage and associated costs resulting from stump grinding are the responsibility of the Contractor.
              7. Any damage to sidewalks or any other improvements on either private or Township property shall be the Contractor’s responsibility to repair or replace to the owner’s satisfaction.

      Maintenance of Traffic

              1. Though there will likely be minimal traffic within the parks during the performance of work, maintenance of traffic is considered incidental to the tree maintenance operation and shall be included in the stated hourly rate for the service being provided by the Contractor.  Traffic  is to be maintained along the public right-of-way whenever possible.  Should roadways need to be closed, the Director of Public Works is to be contacted to arrange for police traffic protection as needed. No additional compensation will be paid by the Township to the Contractor for maintenance of traffic.
              2. The Contractor shall provide all required signs, stands, cones, and/or traffic drums. Contractor shall erect or place and maintain in good condition barricades, warning signals, lights, flares, approved yellow flashing light units, traffic cones and other warning and danger signals and devices, appropriate and adequate for the specified needs at all working sites as recommended by the New Jersey Division of Traffic Safety.

      Cleanup

              1. The Contractor shall be responsible for keeping the work area clean at all times. All residual debris generated from the tree maintenance shall be removed by the Contractor at the end of each workday.
              2. All work areas shall be remediated to their existing state prior to the performance of work. This includes, but is not limited to, sweeping the roadway of debris, removing debris and raking lawn areas.
              3. At the end of each workday, the Contractor will remove all equipment, vehicles, tools and other associated items belonging to the Contractor.  Middletown Township will not be responsible for any theft, vandalism or damage resulting from the Contractor’s equipment left on site.

      After Hours/Emergency Response:

      After-hours work is defined as work scheduled outside of 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM or as agreed upon by the parties, unless otherwise specified by the Township. After-hours work may occur on weekends and/or holidays in response to storm damage or for work required during a “Declared Emergency” except for crews already scheduled to work during the normal work week. The Contractor must provide to the Township, within one (1) hour of notice by the Township, at least one (1) crew (minimum three (3) people) of qualified tree workers and appropriate/required equipment. The crew will be directed where to report and receive work assignments. The crew may be required to work hours other than those associated with the normal eight (8) hour workday should the project so require.  For the duration of the afterhours work, the Contractor will be compensated at the contracted emergency response hourly rate.

      Award

      Award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder with the lowest total hourly rate.

      Please note, this contract is being awarded as an open-ended contract.  No minimum or maximum is implied.

    • Rejection of Proposals

      The Township reserves the right to reject proposals in accordance with applicable law, or to reject any proposals if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of such Respondent fails to satisfy the Township that such Respondent is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the RFP and to complete the work contemplated therein.

       

      Proposals that are incomplete, conditional, or obscure, or which contain additions not called for, erasures, alterations, or irregularities of any kind, may be rejected as non-responsive.

    • Administrative Conditions and Requirements

      The following items express the administrative conditions and requirements of this RFP.  Together with the other RFP sections, they will apply to the RFP process, the subsequent contract and the project’s production.  Any proposed change, modification, or exception to these conditions and requirements may be the basis for the Township to determine the proposal as non-responsive to the RFP and will be a factor in the determination of an award of a contract.  The contents of the proposal of a successful Respondent, as accepted by the Township, will become part of any contract awarded as a result of this RFP.

    • IN GENERAL

      1. FAMILIARITY WITH PROPOSED WORK.

      By submitting a Bid, the Bidder covenants and agrees that he has satisfied himself from his own investigation of the conditions to be met, that he understands fully his obligations and that he will not make any claim nor have any right to cancellation or relief of the Contract because of any misunderstanding or lack of information

      2. INTERPRETATIONS AND ADDENDA.

      A. The bidder understands and agrees that its bid is submitted on the basis of the specifications prepared by the owner. The bidder accepts the obligation to become familiar with these specifications. 

      B. Bidders are expected to examine the specifications and related bid documents with care and observe all their requirements. Ambiguities, errors or omissions noted by bidders should be promptly reported in writing to the appropriate official. Any prospective bidder who wishes to challenge a bid specification shall file such challenges in writing with the contracting agent no less than three business days prior to the opening of the bids. Challenges filed after that time shall be considered void and have no impact on the contracting unit of the award of a contract pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-13. In the event the bidder fails to notify owner of such ambiguities, errors or omissions, the bidder shall be bound by the requirement of the specifications and the bidder’s submitted bid.
       
      C. No oral interpretation and or clarification of the meaning of the specifications for any goods and services will be made to any bidder. Such requests shall be in writing via the e-procurement portal, under the tab named "Question & Answer."  In order to be given consideration, a written request must be received by the date and time indicated in the bid.

      D. All interpretations, clarifications and any supplemental instructions will be in the form of written addenda to the specifications and will be distributed to all prospective bidders via the e-procurement portal. All addenda so issued shall become part of the specification and bid documents and shall be acknowledged by the bidder in the bid by completing the Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda form. The owner’s interpretations or corrections thereof shall be final. 

      E. Pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-23(c) when issuing addenda, the owner shall provide required notice prior to the official receipt of bids to any person who has submitted a bid or who has received a bid package.
       
      3. PRESENTATION OF BIDS.  All Bids become the property of the Township. No Bid may be withdrawn after the time fixed for the opening of Bids. Bids received after the opening of Bids has commenced will be returned, unopened, to the Bidders. 

      4. INSTRUCTIONS FOR ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION.  

      The Township is accepting electronic bid submissions with OpenGov by following the instructions below.  The Township will NOT accept paper bids.

      It is important to note that this process should be completed well in advance of the bid deadline/bid opening. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. The Township's electronic submission system will not allow electronic bids to be submitted once the deadline has passed, even if you've already started the process. The deadline is based on the countdown timer found on the OpenGov bid submission page.

    • DOCUMENTS REQUIRED WITH BID

      The Township has an account with Surety2000 an online bid bond/surety program. Use of these platforms is fee-based and bidders can utilize the platform to obtain an electronically issued, verified, and legal bid bond and consent of surety which can be used for bidding purposes.

      To use Surety2000, please use this link to access the site: www.surety2000.com.

      1. BID GUARANTEE. When required as indicated in the bid, the bidder shall submit with the bid a certified check, cashier’s check, bid bond, or e-bond using Surety2000 in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total price bid, but not in excess of $20,000.00, payable unconditionally to the owner. When submitting a Bid Bond it shall contain Power of Attorney for the full amount of the Bid Bond from a Surety Company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and acceptable to the owner. The check or bond of the unsuccessful bidder(s) shall be returned pursuant to NJSA40A:11-24a. The check or bond of the bidder to whom the contract is awarded shall be retained until a contract is executed and the required performance bond or security is submitted. The check or bond of the successful bidder shall be forfeited if the bidder fails to enter into a contract pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-21.

      2. CONSENT OF SURETY. When required as indicated in the bid, the bidder shall submit with the bid a Certificate (Consent) of Surety with Power of Attorney for the full amount of bid price from a Surety Company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey, and acceptable to the owner stating that it will provide said bidder with a Performance Bond in the full amount of the bid. This certificate shall be obtained in order to confirm that the bidder to whom the contract is awarded will furnish Performance and Payment Bonds from an acceptable surety company on behalf of said bidder, any or all subcontractors, or by each respective subcontractor, or by any combination hereof which results in performance security equal to the total amount of the contract, pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-22.  

      The Consent of Surety shall include a valid Power of Attorney authorizing the Attorney-in-Fact to execute the documents. Failure to submit a Consent of Surety form when required shall result in the rejection of the bid. 

      1. Instructions for Bidders submitting a physical Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety
        1. The guarantee & Consent of Surety must be physically received by the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents in a sealed envelope CLEARLY marked with the name of the bid and date and time of the bid opening.
        2. If submitting a cashiers check, certified check, or physical bid bond:
          1. An image of the check/bond & consent of surety must be included with the bid or proposal submitted through the OpenGov platform as an attachment to the related question in the vendor questionnaire.
          2. The physical check/bond & consent of surety must be submitted to the local unit in a sealed envelope clearly marked as part of the bid response as noted above. 
        3. Bid Security & Consent of Surety may be mailed or hand delivered to the following address:

          Township of Middletown
          Attn: Central Purchasing
          Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid
          1 Kings Highway
          Middletown, NJ, 07748
        4. The Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety may also be hand delivered at the public bid opening and must be received no later than the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          1. It is highly suggested that all bid guarantees & consents of sureties are delivered to Central Purchasing BEFORE the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          2. The Township is not responsible for late submissions and no consideration will be made for a bid security and/or consent of surety received after the date and time stipulated in the bid documents even if you have completed your bid online.

      2. Instructions for Bidders submitting a Bid Guarantee and Consent of Surety through Surety2000
        1. Log in, or register for an account with Surety2000 here: https://dashboard.surety2000.com/#/login
        2. You will need to use your Federal Tax ID number to obtain the bond/surety.  The Township does not provide an ID number for each project.
        3. Upload a copy of the confirmation of the filing of the electronic bond to the question titled "Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety" in the vendor questionnaire. 
        4. Proceed to the "Electronic Filing of Bid Guarantee" question and input your bond's serial number.

      3. DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP. Any corporation or partnership submitting a Bid shall accompany that Bid with a Disclosure of Ownership Statement listing the names and addresses of each owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the corporation or partnership. Said information may be supplied on the form provided in this packet or on the Bidder's letterhead as per N.J.S.A.52:25-24.2 (PL1977, C33).

      4. ACKNOWLEGEMENT OF RECIEPT OF ADDENDA.  Per 40A:11-23.2(e) the bidder shall acknowledge the receipt of any addenda.  Acknowledgement will be completed via the e-procurement platform.  All addenda can be viewed by visiting the the project information tab, then clicking on Addenda & Notices. 

      5. NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT. Each Bidder must complete and submit a Non-collusion Affidavit. As per N.J.S.A.2C:21-34 et seq, N.J.S.A. 2C:27-10, N.J.S.A.2C:27-11. 

      6. CONTRACTORS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE.  When required as indicated in the bid, all contractors and subcontractors performing covered public work defined as construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration or repair work, or maintenance work, including painting and decorating, done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of the funds of the public body, except work performed under a rehabilitation program. Public work also means construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, or repair work done on any property or premises, whether or not the work is paid from public funds, if at the time of entering into the contract:

      • Not less than 55% of the property or premises is leased by a public body, or is subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body; and
      • The portion of the property or premises that is leased or subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body measures more than 20,000 square feet.

      must be registered with the New jersey Department of labor.  Bidders that are not registered at the time bids are opened will be considered Non-Responsive. Under the law a “contractor” is “a person or partnership, association joint stock company, trust, corporation or other legal business entity or successor thereof who enters into a contract” which is subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Prevailing wage Act (NJSA 34:11-56.25, et seq.).  This applies to contractors based in New Jersey or in another state.  

      7. INSURANCE COVERAGE.  The Contractor shall maintain sufficient insurance to protect against all claims under Workers Compensation and Employers Liability, General Liability and Automobile Liability as called for in the Specifications. Certificates of Insurance for those policies required above shall be submitted with the contract. Such coverage shall be with an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and shall name the owner as an additional insured. 

      8. PERFORMANCE/PAYMENT BOND.  A bond in the amount of 100% of total Bid shall be furnished by the Contractor when required in the Specifications.  The surety on such bond or bonds shall be a duly authorized surety company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey pursuant N.J.S.A. 17:31-5. For multi-year contracts the Performance Bond may be resubmitted each year on the Contract Anniversary date for the amount remaining on the contract. Failure to submit this with the executed contract shall be cause for declaring the contract null and void pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-22. 

      8a LABOR AND MATERIAL (PAYMENT) BOND. The successful bidder shall with the delivery of the performance bond submit an executed payment bond to guarantee payment to laborers and suppliers for the labor and material used in the work performed under the contract.

      Failure to submit this with the executed contract shall be cause for declaring the contract null and void pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-22.

      8b MAINTENANCE BOND If required as indicated in the bid, and upon acceptance of the work by the owner, the contractor shall submit a maintenance bond in the amount not to exceed 15% of the project costs against defective quality of work or materials for the period of: None.

      9. BUSINESS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE. As per N.J.S.A.52:32-44, prior to contact award or authorization, the contractor shall provide the Contracting Agency with its proof of business registration and that of any named subcontractor(s). Subcontractors named in a bid or other proposal shall provide proof of business registration to the bidder, who in turn shall provide it to the Contracting agency prior to the time a contract, purchase order or other contracting document is awarded or authorized.

      A. During the course of the contract performance:
      1. The contractor shall not enter into a contract with a subcontractor unless the subcontractor first provides the contractor with a valid proof of business registration.
      2. The contractor shall maintain and submit to the Contracting Agency a list of subcontractors and their address that may be updated from time to time.
      3. The contractor and any subcontractor providing goods or performing services under the contract and each of their affiliates, shall collect and remit to the Director of the Division of Taxation in the Department of Treasury, the use tax due pursuant the Sales and Use Tax Act (NJSA 54:32B-1 et seq) on all sales of tangible personal property delivered into the State. Any questions in this regard can be directed to Division of Taxation at (609) 292-6400. Form NJ-REG can be filed online at www.state.nj.us/treasury/revenue/busregcert.shtml
        
      Before final payment is made under the contract, the contractor shall submit to the Contracting agency a complete and accurate list of all subcontractors used and their addresses.

      Pursuant to NJSA 54:49-4.1, a business organization that fails to provide a copy of a business registration as required, or that provides false business registration information, shall be liable for a penalty of $25.00 for each day of the violation, not to exceed $50,000, for each proof of business registration not properly under a contract with the contracting agency.

      FOR EMERGENCY PURCHASES For purchases of an emergent nature the contractor shall provide its Business Registration Certificate within two weeks from the date of purchase or execution of the contract or prior to payment for goods and services, whichever is earlier.

      10. DISCLOSURE OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO NJ ELECTION LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION (ELEC) Starting January 2007, all business entities are advised of their responsibility to file an annual disclosure statement of political contributions with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.27 if they receive contracts in excess of $50,000 from public entities in a calendar year. Business entities are responsible for determining if filing is necessary.  Additional information on this requirement is available from ELEC at 888-313-3532 or at www.elec.state.nj.us

    • Evaluation Team

      The names of the members of the Township Evaluation Team to review all proposals will be announced upon the issuance of the Purchasing Agent’s final report.

    • BIDDER

      Any individual, firm or corporation submitting a proposal for the work contemplated, acting directly or through a duly authorized representative.

    • Proposal Format

      The proposal shall be signed by an individual authorized to bind the responder and shall contain a statement to the effect that the proposal is a firm offer for a sixty (60) calendar day period from the date of the opening.  The proposal shall provide the name, title, address, telephone number, fax number and email address of individuals with authority to contractually bind the company.

       

      The proposal shall be presented in the following format and include, at a minimum, all the information specified.

      • Proposals shall be submitted though the Township's OpenGov e-procurement software.  No hard copies of proposals will be accepted.
      • All applicable portions of this RFP shall be responded to in sequence and referenced to the specific page/section number.
      • The responder shall respond in a point-by-point format to each and every requirement listed in the technical specifications of this RFP and include a fee proposal for the initial term of the contract as well as any extensions.
      • Failure to provide a clearly noted response to all requirements in the technical specification section will result at least in a lowered evaluation score for the proposal and might result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive.
      • An explanation or description of any exception, modification or necessary customization and the cost of such modifications shall be broken out and included in the proposal.
    • Evaluation Process

      The Evaluation Team will review all proposals to determine if they satisfy the Proposal Requirements, determine if a proposal should be rejected and evaluate the proposals based upon the Evaluation Criteria located in the next section of this RFP.  The Evaluation Team will then recommend the highest-ranking Respondent to the Township Council for selection as the Successful Respondent for the award of contract.

    • CONSENT OF SURETY

      A certificate from a licensed surety company on the form attached to these specifications and called “consent of surety” that it will provide the contractor with a contract bond in amount equal to 100% of the contract price.

    • Cost Liability and Additional Costs

      The Township assumes no responsibility and no liability for costs incurred by the respondents prior to the issuance of an agreement.  The liability of the Township shall be limited to the terms and conditions of the contract.

       

      Respondents will assume responsibility for all costs not stated in their proposals.  All hourly rates either stated in the proposal or used as a basis for its pricing are required to be all inclusive.  Additional charges for indirect costs, fees, postage, licensing, commissions, taxes, travel, subsistence, report preparation, meetings, administrative tasks, administrative and clerical support, overhead, etc. are not to be billed and will not be paid.

    • DOCUMENTS REQUIRED WITH BID

      1. BID GUARANTEE. The bidder shall submit with the bid a certified check, cashier’s check, bid bond, or e-bond using Surety2000 in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total price bid, but not in excess of $20,000.00, payable unconditionally to the owner. When submitting a Bid Bond it shall contain Power of Attorney for the full amount of the Bid Bond from a Surety Company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and acceptable to the owner. The check or bond of the unsuccessful bidder(s) shall be returned pursuant to NJSA40A:11-24a. The check or bond of the bidder to whom the contract is awarded shall be retained until a contract is executed and the required performance bond or security is submitted. The check or bond of the successful bidder shall be forfeited if the bidder fails to enter into a contract pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-21.

      1. Instructions for Bidders submitting a physical Bid Guarantee
        1. The guarantee must be physically received by the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents in a sealed envelope CLEARLY marked with the name of the bid and date and time of the bid opening.
        2. If submitting a cashiers check, certified check, or physical bid bond:
          1. An image of the check/bond must be included with the bid or proposal submitted through the OpenGov platform as an attachment to the related question in the vendor questionnaire.
          2. The physical check/bond must be submitted to the local unit in a sealed envelope clearly marked as part of the bid response as noted above. 
        3. Bid Security may be mailed or hand delivered to the following address:

          Township of Middletown
          Attn: Central Purchasing
          Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid
          1 Kings Highway
          Middletown, NJ, 07748
        4. The Bid Guarantee may also be hand delivered at the public bid opening and must be received no later than the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          1. It is highly suggested that all bid guarantees are delivered to Central Purchasing BEFORE the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          2. The Township is not responsible for late submissions and no consideration will be made for a bid security received after the date and time stipulated in the bid documents even if you have completed your bid online.

      2. Instructions for Bidders submitting a Bid Guarantee Through Surety2000
        1. Log in, or register for an account with Surety2000 here: https://dashboard.surety2000.com/#/login
        2. Upload a copy of the confirmation of the filing of the electronic bond to the question titled "Big Guarantee" in the vendor questionnaire. 
        3. Proceed to the "Electronic Filing of Bid Guarantee" question and input your bond's serial number.

      2. DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP. Any corporation or partnership submitting a Bid shall accompany that Bid with a Disclosure of Ownership Statement listing the names and addresses of each owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the corporation or partnership. Said information may be supplied on the form provided in this packet or on the Bidder's letterhead as per N.J.S.A.52:25-24.2 (PL1977, C33).

      3. ACKNOWLEGEMENT OF RECIEPT OF ADDENDA.  Per 40A:11-23.2(e) the bidder shall acknowledge the receipt of any addenda.  Acknowledgement will be completed via the e-procurement platform.  All addenda can be viewed by visiting the the project information tab, then clicking on Addenda & Notices.

      4. NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT. Each Bidder must complete and submit a Non-collusion Affidavit. As per N.J.S.A.2C:21-34 et seq, N.J.S.A. 2C:27-10, N.J.S.A.2C:27-11. 

      5. CONTRACTORS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE.  When required as indicated in the bid, all contractors and subcontractors performing covered public work defined as construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration or repair work, or maintenance work, including painting and decorating, done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of the funds of the public body, except work performed under a rehabilitation program. Public work also means construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, or repair work done on any property or premises, whether or not the work is paid from public funds, if at the time of entering into the contract:

      • Not less than 55% of the property or premises is leased by a public body, or is subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body; and
      • The portion of the property or premises that is leased or subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body measures more than 20,000 square feet.

      must be registered with the New jersey Department of labor.  Bidders that are not registered at the time bids are opened will be considered Non-Responsive. Under the law a “contractor” is “a person or partnership, association joint stock company, trust, corporation or other legal business entity or successor thereof who enters into a contract” which is subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Prevailing wage Act (NJSA 34:11-56.25, et seq.).  This applies to contractors based in New Jersey or in another state.  

      6. INSURANCE COVERAGE.  The Contractor shall maintain sufficient insurance to protect against all claims under Workers Compensation and Employers Liability, General Liability and Automobile Liability as called for in the Specifications. Certificates of Insurance for those policies required above shall be submitted with the contract. Such coverage shall be with an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and shall name the owner as an additional insured. 

      7. BUSINESS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE. As per N.J.S.A.52:32-44, prior to contact award or authorization, the contractor shall provide the Contracting Agency with its proof of business registration and that of any named subcontractor(s). Subcontractors named in a bid or other proposal shall provide proof of business registration to the bidder, who in turn shall provide it to the Contracting agency prior to the time a contract, purchase order or other contracting document is awarded or authorized.

      A. During the course of the contract performance:
      1. The contractor shall not enter into a contract with a subcontractor unless the subcontractor first provides the contractor with a valid proof of business registration.
      2. The contractor shall maintain and submit to the Contracting Agency a list of subcontractors and their address that may be updated from time to time.
      3. The contractor and any subcontractor providing goods or performing services under the contract and each of their affiliates, shall collect and remit to the Director of the Division of Taxation in the Department of Treasury, the use tax due pursuant the Sales and Use Tax Act (NJSA 54:32B-1 et seq) on all sales of tangible personal property delivered into the State. Any questions in this regard can be directed to Division of Taxation at (609) 292-6400. Form NJ-REG can be filed online at www.state.nj.us/treasury/revenue/busregcert.shtml
        
      Before final payment is made under the contract, the contractor shall submit to the Contracting agency a complete and accurate list of all subcontractors used and their addresses.

      Pursuant to NJSA 54:49-4.1, a business organization that fails to provide a copy of a business registration as required, or that provides false business registration information, shall be liable for a penalty of $25.00 for each day of the violation, not to exceed $50,000, for each proof of business registration not properly under a contract with the contracting agency.

      FOR EMERGENCY PURCHASES For purchases of an emergent nature the contractor shall provide its Business Registration Certificate within two weeks from the date of purchase or execution of the contract or prior to payment for goods and services, whichever is earlier.

      8. DISCLOSURE OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO NJ ELECTION LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION (ELEC) Starting January 2007, all business entities are advised of their responsibility to file an annual disclosure statement of political contributions with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.27 if they receive contracts in excess of $50,000 from public entities in a calendar year. Business entities are responsible for determining if filing is necessary.  Additional information on this requirement is available from ELEC at 888-313-3532 or at www.elec.state.nj.us

    • DOCUMENTS REQUIRED WITH BID

      1. DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP. Any corporation or partnership submitting a Bid shall accompany that Bid with a Disclosure of Ownership Statement listing the names and addresses of each owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the corporation or partnership. Said information may be supplied on the form provided in this packet or on the Bidder's letterhead as per N.J.S.A.52:25-24.2 (PL1977, C33).

      2. ACKNOWLEGEMENT OF RECIEPT OF ADDENDA.  Per 40A:11-23.2(e) the bidder shall acknowledge the receipt of any addenda.  Acknowledgement will be completed via the e-procurement platform.  All addenda can be viewed by visiting the the project information tab, then clicking on Addenda & Notices.

      3. NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT. Each Bidder must complete and submit a Non-collusion Affidavit. As per N.J.S.A.2C:21-34 et seq, N.J.S.A. 2C:27-10, N.J.S.A.2C:27-11. 

      4. CONTRACTORS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE.  When required as indicated in the bid, all contractors and subcontractors performing covered public work defined as construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration or repair work, or maintenance work, including painting and decorating, done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of the funds of the public body, except work performed under a rehabilitation program. Public work also means construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, or repair work done on any property or premises, whether or not the work is paid from public funds, if at the time of entering into the contract:

      • Not less than 55% of the property or premises is leased by a public body, or is subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body; and
      • The portion of the property or premises that is leased or subject to an agreement to be subsequently leased by the public body measures more than 20,000 square feet.

      must be registered with the New jersey Department of labor.  Bidders that are not registered at the time bids are opened will be considered Non-Responsive. Under the law a “contractor” is “a person or partnership, association joint stock company, trust, corporation or other legal business entity or successor thereof who enters into a contract” which is subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Prevailing wage Act (NJSA 34:11-56.25, et seq.).  This applies to contractors based in New Jersey or in another state.  

      5. INSURANCE COVERAGE.  The Contractor shall maintain sufficient insurance to protect against all claims under Workers Compensation and Employers Liability, General Liability and Automobile Liability as called for in the Specifications. Certificates of Insurance for those policies required above shall be submitted with the contract. Such coverage shall be with an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and shall name the owner as an additional insured. 

      6. BUSINESS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE. As per N.J.S.A.52:32-44, prior to contact award or authorization, the contractor shall provide the Contracting Agency with its proof of business registration and that of any named subcontractor(s). Subcontractors named in a bid or other proposal shall provide proof of business registration to the bidder, who in turn shall provide it to the Contracting agency prior to the time a contract, purchase order or other contracting document is awarded or authorized.

      A. During the course of the contract performance:
      1. The contractor shall not enter into a contract with a subcontractor unless the subcontractor first provides the contractor with a valid proof of business registration.
      2. The contractor shall maintain and submit to the Contracting Agency a list of subcontractors and their address that may be updated from time to time.
      3. The contractor and any subcontractor providing goods or performing services under the contract and each of their affiliates, shall collect and remit to the Director of the Division of Taxation in the Department of Treasury, the use tax due pursuant the Sales and Use Tax Act (NJSA 54:32B-1 et seq) on all sales of tangible personal property delivered into the State. Any questions in this regard can be directed to Division of Taxation at (609) 292-6400. Form NJ-REG can be filed online at www.state.nj.us/treasury/revenue/busregcert.shtml
        
      Before final payment is made under the contract, the contractor shall submit to the Contracting agency a complete and accurate list of all subcontractors used and their addresses.

      Pursuant to NJSA 54:49-4.1, a business organization that fails to provide a copy of a business registration as required, or that provides false business registration information, shall be liable for a penalty of $25.00 for each day of the violation, not to exceed $50,000, for each proof of business registration not properly under a contract with the contracting agency.

      FOR EMERGENCY PURCHASES For purchases of an emergent nature the contractor shall provide its Business Registration Certificate within two weeks from the date of purchase or execution of the contract or prior to payment for goods and services, whichever is earlier.

      7. DISCLOSURE OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO NJ ELECTION LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION (ELEC) Starting January 2007, all business entities are advised of their responsibility to file an annual disclosure statement of political contributions with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.27 if they receive contracts in excess of $50,000 from public entities in a calendar year. Business entities are responsible for determining if filing is necessary.  Additional information on this requirement is available from ELEC at 888-313-3532 or at www.elec.state.nj.us

    • Ownership of Material

      The Township shall retain all of its rights and interest in and to any and all documents and property both hard copy and digitally furnished by the Township to the Vendor, for the purpose of assisting the Vendor in the performance of this contract.  All such items, shall be returned immediately to the Township at the expiration or termination of the work or completion of any related services, pursuant thereto, whichever comes first.  None of such documents and/or property shall be disclosed to others or used by the Vendor or permitted by the Vendor to be used by third parties at any time except in the performance of the resulting contract.

       

      Under Federal and State statutes, certain government records are protected from public disclosure.  The Township, the Contractor and any Subcontractors have a responsibility and an obligation to safeguard from public access any government records deemed confidential with which it has been entrusted.  Administrative or technical information regarding computer hardware, software and networks, if disclosed, would jeopardize computer security.  The Contractor and any Subcontractor(s) are prohibited from the sale or distribution of any supplied information to any third party.

       

      Ownership of all data, materials and documentation originated and prepared for the Township pursuant to this contract shall belong exclusively to the Township.  The Vendor shall not have the right to use, sell, or disclose the total of the interim or final work products, or make them available to third parties.  All information supplied to the Township shall be supplied on flash drives compatible with the Township’s computer operating systems.

       

      It is understood that certain information that may be provided by the bidders may be “trade secret information” that qualifies for non-disclosure under Title 47 of the New Jersey Code.  Certain information that qualifies as trade secrets may be provided within the respondent’s proposal and, if identified and qualifies as such, will be considered trade secret material and therefore, pursuant to Title 47, not “public records”.  Included as trade secrets, shall be the following information:

       

      1. Functionality, matrixes or documentation which may explain details concerning how proprietary software functions.
      1. Demonstration, documentation or material, which describes or demonstrates how proprietary software may perform its functionality.
      1. Proprietary software and its software documentation, which is proposed as a part of the proposal, to be governed by a license agreement, which prohibits its disclosure.
    • CONTRACT

      The agreement covering the performance of the work and the furnishing of materials in the construction of the work. The “Contract” shall include the “Proposal”, “Instruction to the Bidders”, “Plans”, “Specifications”, “Contract Bond”, and all supplemental agreements which may be subsequently entered into to complete the construction of the work in a substantial and acceptable manner.

    • Subcontractors

      The Township will consider the Successful Respondent identified as the Prime Vendor to be the sole point of contact with regard to contract matters.  The Prime Vendor will be required to assume sole responsibility for delivery of all services.

       

      The Prime Vendor will not be permitted to add or substitute subcontractors, which are shown on the list submitted with the RFP response, without obtaining prior written approval from the Township.

    • CONTRACTOR

      The party of the second part to the contract, acting directly or through his agents or employees, and who is primarily liable for the payments of all debts pertaining to and for the acceptable performance of the work for which he had contracted.

    • CONTRACT BOND

      The approved form of security furnished by the Contractor and his surety as a guaranty of good faith on the part of the Contractor to execute the work in accordance with the terms of the Contract.

    • Patented Processes

      Any charge for the use of patented processes, materials, or methods, which may be used by the Contractor in this contract, must be included in the prices bid. The Contractor shall be responsible for any claims made against the parties of the first part for any infringement of patents, by the use of patented articles in the completion and construction of the work and shall save harmless and indemnify the Municipality for all costs, expenses and damages which the Municipality shall be obligated to pay by reason of an infringement of patents used in the construction and completion of said work.

    • ENGINEER

      The engineer of the municipality or his duly authorized representative acting within the scope of particular duties assigned to him or the authority given him.

    • INSPECTOR

      The authorized representative of the Engineer, assigned to make any or all necessary inspections of work performed and material furnished by the Contractor as defined in the specifications. 

    • REGARDING SPECIFICATIONS

      1. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS. The word "Mandatory" appears with any requirement which must be met exactly as specified. Deviation from any such mandatory requirements will constitute a material and substantial noncompliance with the Specifications and will result in rejection of the Bid.

      2. AMERICAN GOODS AND PRODUCTS. 40A:11-18 American goods and products shall be used whenever possible for the services or products required in the Specifications. However, the decision of the Township Committee, after consultation with the Purchasing Agent and the department head involved, shall be final where the price discrepancy favors foreign goods or products and said decision does not conflict with the law.

      3. EQUIPMENT. By submitting the Bid, the Bidder warrants that equipment offered is standard new equipment, the latest model of regular stock product, with parts regularly used for the type of equipment offered readily available and not likely to be discontinued; that trained mechanics are regularly employed to make necessary repairs; and that the equipment is free of defects of material and workmanship. New equipment shall be guaranteed unconditionally for a period of one (1) year from time of delivery and acceptance (whichever is later) unless otherwise specified in the Specifications. Service shall be rendered promptly without charge.

      When required by the Bid specifications, Bidder shall certify on the Equipment Certification from that they control or have access to equipment necessary to do the required work if awarded the contract. If the bidder does not own or lease the equipment, a certification form the owner of the equipment that the bidder will have access to the equipment is required with the bid (NJSA 40:11-20).

      4. BRAND NAMES. Brand names and/or descriptions used in these specifications are to acquaint bidders with the types of goods and services desired and will be issued as a standard by which goods and services offered as equivalent will be evaluated.

      A: When a specification uses “brand name or equivalent” the listed brand name shall serve as a reference or point of comparison for the functional or operational characteristics desired for the good or service being requested. Where a bidder submits an equivalent, it shall be the responsibility of the bidder to document the equivalence claim. Failure to submit such documentation shall be grounds for rejections of the claim equivalence.  The Owner will have the ultimate final decision in determining if a product offered is equivalent to the brand name specified.

      B: In submitting its bid, the bidder certifies that the goods and services to be furnished will not infringe upon any valid patent or trademark and that the successful bidder shall at its own expense, defend any and all actions or suits charging such infringement and will save the owner harmless from any damages resulting from such infringement.

      C: The contractor shall guarantee any or all goods and services supplied under these specifications. Defects or inferior goods shall be replaced at the expense of the contractor. The contractor will be responsible for return freight or restocking charges. 

      5. LITERATURE. Bidders shall submit, with their Bids, complete descriptive literature and specifications describing fully all manufacturers’ equipment proposed to be furnished. 

      6. LIQUIDATED DAMAGES.  Contractor’s failure to commence work or make delivery on this Contract within the period stated in the Specifications or failure of Contractor to perform this Contract as per the Specifications shall be a Breach of Contract and Contractor shall forfeit to The Township of Middletown as liquidated damages for such failure or refusal $500/day for failure to meet the substantial / final completion deadlines.   

      7. TERM OF CONTRACT.  The Term of this Contract shall extend See specifications, commencing no later than ten (10) days following the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP), unless otherwise noted by the Owner.

      8.  LINE ITEM/LUMP SUM.  The Contract will be awarded on a line item or lump sum basis as stated on the Proposal form.

    • ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS

      1.  PREVAILING WAGES AND LABOR LAWS NJSA 34:11-56.48 e seq. If applicable, the successful Bidder must comply with the New Jersey prevailing Wage Act (P.L. 1963, Chapter I50) and provisions of the State Labor Laws.

      2. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION. The successful Bidder shall be required to comply with the provisions of P.L. 1975, Chapter 127, (N.J.A.C, 17:27-1 et. seq. & N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq) and P.L. 1977, C33 & N.J.A.C. 5-334-1, a law prohibiting discrimination, and all Affirmative Action Regulations issued pursuant thereto. The successful bidder must submit to the township 1) an existing federally approved or sanctioned Affirmative Action Program; 2) a Certificate of Employee Information report Approval; "Affirmative Action Affidavit" (included in this packet). If a contractor cannot supply 1) or 2) above, he shall submit a completed Employee Information Report (Form AA302), available upon request from the Office of Central Purchasing or the Affirmative Action Office, Department of the Treasurer, State House, CN209, Trenton, NJ 08625; & Americans w/Disabilities Act. Title 11, U.S.C. S121 01 et. seq.

      3. OTHER LAWS. The Contractor shall comply with all local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations applicable to this Contract and to the work to be done hereunder, including but not limited to:
      New Jersey Anti-Discrimination laws N.J.S.A.10:2-1, Americans with Disabilities act 1990, and The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act.

      4. SAVE HARMLESS. The Bidder, if awarded a Contract, agrees to protect, defend and save harmless The Township of Middletown, its agents, consultants or representatives against any damage for payment for the use of any patented material process, article or device that may enter into the manufacture or construction or form a part of the work covered by either order or contract, and he further agrees to indemnify and save harmless The Township of Middletown, its agents, consultants or representatives from suits or actions of every nature and description brought against it, for, or on account of any injuries or damages received or sustained by any party or parties by, or from any of the acts of the Contractor, his servants or agents. A clause to such effect shall be included in all Certificates of Insurance.

      5. VENDOR DOCUMENTATION RETENTION N.J.A.C. 17:44-2.2. The Vendor shall maintain all documentation related to products, transaction or services under this contract for a period of five years from the date of final payment. Such records shall be made available to the New Jersey office of the State Comptroller upon request.

      6. AMENDMENTS TO NJSA2c:21-33 et.seq “TRUTH IN CONTRACTING” Provisions of Law Governing False Claims and Representation.  It is a serious crime for the vendor to knowingly submit a false claim and/or knowingly make material misrepresentation.  There are enhanced penalties for areas of false claims, bid rigging and bribery, gratuities and gifts; and conflict of interest.  Please consult the statue for further information. 
       
      7. PROHIBITED RUSSIA-BELARUS ACTIVITIES & IRAN INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES. Pursuant to law, any person or entity that is a successful bidder or proposer, or otherwise proposes to enter into or renew a contract, for goods or services must complete the certification below prior to contract award to attest, under penalty of perjury, that neither the person or entity, nor any parent entity, subsidiary, or affiliate, is identified on the Department of Treasury's Russia-Belarus list or Chapter 25 list as a person or entity engaging in prohibited activities in Russia, Belarus or Iran.  Before a contract for goods or services can be amended or extended, a person or entity must certify that neither the person or entity, nor any parent entity, subsidiary, or affiliate, is identified on the Department of Treasury's Russia-Belarus list.

    • MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS

      The Governing Body of the Municipality or District in which the work contemplated is to be performed. 

    • ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS

      1. PREVAILING WAGES AND LABOR LAWS NJSA 34:11-56.48 e seq. If applicable, the successful Bidder must comply with the New Jersey prevailing Wage Act (P.L. 1963, Chapter I50) and provisions of the State Labor Laws.

      2. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION. The successful Bidder shall be required to comply with the provisions of P.L. 1975, Chapter 127, (N.J.A.C, 17:27-1 et. seq. & N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq) and P.L. 1977, C33 & N.J.A.C. 5-334-1, a law prohibiting discrimination, and all Affirmative Action Regulations issued pursuant thereto. The successful bidder must submit to the township 1) an existing federally approved or sanctioned Affirmative Action Program; 2) a Certificate of Employee Information report Approval.  If a contractor cannot supply 1) or 2) above, they shall submit a completed Employee Information Report (Form AA302), available upon request from the Office of Central Purchasing or the Affirmative Action Office, Department of the Treasurer, State House, CN209, Trenton, NJ 08625; & Americans w/Disabilities Act. Title 11, U.S.C. S121 01 et. seq.

      For Construction contracts, the winning Bidder shall provide a completed AA-201 per P.L. 1975, C. 127.

      3. OTHER LAWS. The Contractor shall comply with all local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations applicable to this Contract and to the work to be done hereunder, including but not limited to:
      New Jersey Anti-Discrimination laws N.J.S.A.10:2-1, Americans with Disabilities act 1990, and The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act.

      4. SAVE HARMLESS. The Bidder, if awarded a Contract, agrees to protect, defend and save harmless The Township of Middletown, its agents, consultants or representatives against any damage for payment for the use of any patented material process, article or device that may enter into the manufacture or construction or form a part of the work covered by either order or contract, and he further agrees to indemnify and save harmless The Township of Middletown, its agents, consultants or representatives from suits or actions of every nature and description brought against it, for, or on account of any injuries or damages received or sustained by any party or parties by, or from any of the acts of the Contractor, his servants or agents. A clause to such effect shall be included in all Certificates of Insurance.

      5. VENDOR DOCUMENTATION RETENTION N.J.A.C. 17:44-2.2. The Vendor shall maintain all documentation related to products, transaction or services under this contract for a period of five years from the date of final payment. Such records shall be made available to the New Jersey office of the State Comptroller upon request.

      6. AMENDTMENTS TO NJSA2c:21-33 et.seq “TRUTH IN CONTRACTING” Provisions of Law Governing False Claims and Representation.  It is a serious crime for the vendor to knowingly submit a false claim and/or knowingly make material misrepresentation.  There are enhanced penalties for areas of false claims, bid rigging and bribery, gratuities and gifts; and conflict of interest.  Please consult the statue for further information. 

    • OWNER

      The municipality of the governing body for whom the contemplated work is to be performed.

    • PAVEMENT

      The combined foundation and surface courses when considered a single unit.

    • PREPARING THE BID

      1. REQUIRED FORMS. All required Bid/Contract Documents must be returned. Bids will be considered as non-responsive if there is an alteration of or departure from Bid Documents forms, or if all forms are not completed. Forms provided with the Bid Documents packet shall be used unless stated otherwise. Must be typed or written in ink. Any erasure or alteration must be initialed and dated in ink by the Bidder. Bid forms must be signed in ink by the persons authorized to do so, scanned, and submitted as required by the e-procurement platform.

      2. PRICES. Prices for furnishing all material and/or service(s) or labor described or required by the Specifications shall be inserted on the form provided with this packet. Prices shall be net, including any charges for packing, crating, containers, etc., and all transportation charges fully prepaid by the Contractor F.O.B. destination and placement at locations specified in the Specifications. No additional charges will be allowed for any transportation cost resulting from partial shipments made at the Contractor's convenience when a single shipment is ordered. All prices shall be less Federal Excise Tax & State Sales Tax. In event of a discrepancy between the unit figure and the extension, the unit figure will prevail. 

      A. Estimated QUANTITES (Open-End Contracts): The owner has attempted to identify the item(s) and the estimated amounts of each item bid to cover its requirements; however, past experience shows that the amount ordered may be different than that submitted for bidding. The right is reserved to decrease or increase the quantities specified in the specifications pursuant to NJAC 5:30-11-2 and 11.10 NO MINIMUM PURCHASE IS IMPLIED OR GUARANTEED. 

      B. Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining any applicable permits or licenses from any government entity that has jurisdiction to require the same. All bids submitted shall have included this cost.

      C. In the event of public emergency declared at the local, state or federal level prior to the expiration of the contract, if the owner opts to extend terms and conditions of this specification, whether existing or expiring for no longer than six months, for goods and/or services for the duration of the emergency.

      3. DISCOUNTS. Discounts and terms of discount shall be stated on the Proposal form when required. Cash discounts of less than one percent (1%) or discount period of less than thirty (30) days will not be considered as factors in awarding the Contract. Time, with respect to the discount offered, shall be computed from date of delivery and acceptance at destination, or from date correct claim voucher, properly certified by the Contractor, is received, whichever is later.
                                                               
      4. DELIVERIES. Shall be made at such time and in such quantities as ordered in accordance with conditions stated in the Specifications. Quantities may be approximate in some instances, based on the most accurate information at the time. The Township reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantities as needed but in no circumstance shall quantities be increased in excess of twenty percent (20%) of the total contract. The Contractor shall be responsible for the delivery of material in first-class condition at the point of delivery and in accordance with customary commercial practice. Items delivered must be in accordance with those proposed. Bidders must give the amount of time required to make delivery after notification to ship. In the event that delivery is not made within the time stipulated, the Township will authorize the using department to acquire the required material, equipment, or service from any available source, the difference in price (if higher) to be paid by the Contractor.

      5. INSPECTIONS AND TESTS. Material, equipment, or service is subject to inspection and testing. Should any material, equipment, or service fail to meet the requirements of the Specifications during such inspection or test, the equipment, material, or service will be rejected and it shall be replaced immediately by the Contractor.

      6. ALTERNATE BID. When alternate bids are requested for more than one type of product or service, the decision as to the alternate(s) adopted is reserved exclusively to the Township and the award of Contract will be made to the Bidder whose Proposal for the alternate or combination of alternates selected is lowest based on the estimated quantities. Bids that do not include alternate bids when requested will be considered non-responsive.  The Township reserves the right to award any contract where alternate bids are requested to multiple vendors if it is in the best interest of the Township to do so.

    • PLANS AND DRAWINGS

      All drawings or reproductions of drawings pertaining to the construction of the work and its appurtenances.

    • AWARD OF CONTRACT

      1. RECEIPT OF BIDS. Bids shall be received electronically at the stated time and place and immediately be unsealed and read in public in the presence of any parties bidding or their agents who desire to be present.  As bids are read, a proper record of the prices and terms shall be made. Bids which are to be rejected for failing to comply with procedural requirements shall not be returned to the bidder until an official action has been taken by the Township Committee.

      2. REJECTION OF BIDS. The Township reserves the right to judge the qualifications of Bidders in order to ascertain the lowest responsible Bidder as required by law, to reject any or all Bids, and to waive any insubstantial non-conformities where such waiver would not undermine the competitive bidding process. Failure to offer a complete Bid will be deemed just cause for rejection of the Bid as being non-responsive.

      A. All bids pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-13.2
      B. If more than one bid is received form an individual, firm or partnership, corporation or association under the same name;
      C. Multiple bids from an agent representing competing bidders;
      D. The bid is inappropriately unbalanced;
      E. the bidder is determined to possess, pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-4b, prior Negative Experience; or
      F. If the successful bidder fails to enter into a contract within 21 days, Sundays and holidays excepted, or as otherwise agreed upon by the parties to the contact. In      this case at its option, the owner may accept the bid of the next lowest responsible bidder. (NJSA 40A11-24b)

      3. ACCEPTANCE OF BID. Normally, the Township Committee will accept the lowest responsive, responsible Bid and award the Contract at a regular Public Meeting within sixty (60) days after the Bid opening date. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible, responsive Bidder whose Bid substantially conforms to the Specifications and all other requirements imposed by the Bid/Contract Documents. In the event of equal or tie bids. The Township of Middletown reserves the right to award at its discretion to any of the tied bidders.

      4. RETURN OF BID SECURITY. All Bid securities, except the security of the three apparent lowest responsive, responsible bidders, shall be returned within ten (10) days of the bid opening. Within three (3) days after signing of the Contract and approval of Contractor's performance bond (if required), the bid security of remaining Bidders will be returned.

    • PROPOSAL

      The approved prepared form when properly executed which the bidder submits as his proposal for the work contemplated.

    • EXECUTION OF CONTRACT

      Subsequent to Award and within ten (10) days after the prescribed forms are presented for signature, each successful Bidder shall execute and deliver to The Township of Middletown an Agreement (Contract) in such number of counterparts as the Township may require. Failure of any successful Bidder to execute the Contract as specified shall constitute a default and the Township may award the Contract to the next lowest responsible Bidder or re-advertise for bids and may charge against the Bidder the difference between the amount of such Bidder's Proposal and the amount for which a Contract for the work is subsequently executed, including the cost of re-advertising same.

    • ROADBED

      That portion of the roadway which forms the earth foundation for the pavement. 

    • PAYMENT

      A. No payment will be made unless duly authorized by the owner’s authorized representative and accompanied by proper documentation.

      B. Payment will be made in accordance with the owner’s policy and procedures. Invoices shall specify, in detail, the period for which payment is claimed, the services performed during the prescribed period, the amount claimed and correlation between the services claimed and this proposal. Any bill must include a detailed list of items delivered.  In the case of an open ended/maintenance contract the bill submitted for payment must detail all work done, hours worked, rates, cost of parts with markup, and include a breakdown of any supplies needed and their cost/markup.  No payments will be made without a current W9 on file.
       
      C. The owner may withhold all or partial payments on account of subsequently discovered evidence including but not limited to:

      1. Deliverables not complying with the project specification;
      2. Claims filed or responsible evidence indicating probability of filing claims;
      3. A reasonable doubt that the contract can be completed for the balance then unpaid

      When the above grounds are removed, payment shall be made for the amounts withheld.

      D. Public funds may be used to pay only for goods delivered or services rendered. The owner shall not pay penalties and/or interest on overdue bills unless otherwise required by law. No employee is authorized to sign a letter of credit or any other document that represents a legal commitment on the part of the owner to pay additional fees. 

    • PROMPT PAYMENT - GOODS & SERVICES

      P.L.2019, c127 (LFN 2019-02 1/23/19) P.L. 2018, c.127 establishes a prompt payment requirement that applies to goods and services contracts a contracting unit awards to a “business concern” under the Local Public Contracts Law (LPCL). The law applies to all goods and services contracts awarded on or after February 1, 2019 (effective date) regardless of dollar amount and any contract requiring either a single payment or multiple payments. The law does not change the prompt payment requirements for improvements to real property and structures as set forth in N.J.S.A. 2A:30A-1 et seq and described in LFN 2006-21. The law defines “Business Concerns” as any person engaged in a trade or business, including private nonprofit entity operating as an independent contractor, providing goods and services directly to a contracting unit or to a designated third party and operating pursuant to a contract with a contracting unit which requires either a single payment or multiple payments, but shall not include a “public utility” defined in N.J.S.A. 48:2.13

    • TERMINATION OF CONTRACT

      A. If through any cause, the contractor shall fail to fulfill in a timely and proper manner obligations under the contracts or if the contractor shall violate any of the requirements or the requirements of the contract, the owner shall upon have the right to terminate the contract by giving written notice to the contractor of such termination and specifying the effective date of termination. Such termination shall relieve the owner of any obligation of balances to the contractor of any sum or sums set forth in contract. Owner will pay only for goods and services accepted prior to termination.

      B. Notwithstanding the above, the contractor shall not be relieved of liability to the owner for damages sustained by the owner by virtue of any breach of the contract by the contractor and the owner may withhold any payments to the contractor for the purpose of compensation until as the exact amount of the damage due the owner form the contractor is determined. 

      C. The contractor agrees indemnify and hold harmless from any liability to subcontractors/suppliers concerning payment for work performed of goods supplies arising out of the lawful termination of the contract by the owner under this provision. 

      D. In case of default by the contractor, the owner may procure the goods or services from other sources and hold the contractor responsible for any excess cost.

      E. Continuation of the terms of the contract beyond the fiscal year is contingent on availability of funds in the following year’s budget. In the event of unavailability of such funds, the owner reserves the right to cancel the contract.

      F. It is understood by all that parties that if, during the life of the contract, the contractor disposes of his/her business concern by acquisition, merger, sale, and or/transfer or by any means convey his/her interest(s) to another party, all obligations are transferred to that new party. In this event, the new owner(s) will be required to submit all documentation/legal instruments that were required in the original bid/contact. Any change shall be approved by the Owner.

      G. The contractor will not assign any interest in the contract and shall not transfer any interest in the same without the prior written consent of the owner.

      H. The owner may terminate the contract for convenience by providing 60 calendar days advance notice to the contractor.

      I. The contractor shall maintain all documentation related to products, transactions or services under this contract for a period of five years form the date of final payment. Such records shall be made available to the New Jersey Office of the State Comptroller upon request.

      J. For contracts that exceed one year, each fiscal year payment obligation of the owner is conditioned upon the availability of owner funds appropriated or allocated for the payment of such obligation. If funds are not allocated and available for the continuance of any services performed by the bidder awarded the contract (contractor) hereunder, whether in whole or in part, the owner at the end of any particular fiscal year may terminate such services. The owner will not notify the contractor in writing immediately of any services that will be affected by shortage of appropriated funds. This provision shall not be construed so as to permit the owner to terminate the contract during the term, or any service hereunder, merely in order to acquire identical services from another contractor.

      K. Neither party shall be responsible for any resulting loss or obligation to fulfill duties as specified in any of the terms or provisions of a contract if the fulfillment of any term or provision of the contracts delayed or prevented by any revolutions, insurrections, riots, wars, acts of enemies, national emergencies, strikes, floods, fires, acts of God, or by any cause not within the control of the party whose performance is interfered with which by the exercise of reasonable diligence such party is unable to prevent. Additionally, if the fulfillment of any of the terms and provisions of the contract is delayed or prevented by any court or action or injunction or other such agreement, the contract shall become voidable by the owner by notice to the parties.

    • SPECIFICATIONS

      The directions, provisions, and requirements contained herein, together with all written agreements made or to be made pertaining to the method and of performance of the work, or the quantities or qualities of materials to be furnished under the contract.

    • OTHER PROVISIONS

      Both parties agree to comply with all requirements of the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPPA”) as maybe amended from time to time, and the corresponding HIPAA regulations for the confidentiality and security of medical information.

    • STREET

      The whole right of way, which is or may be owned by the Municipality, including roadway and sidewalk area.

    • DOCUMENTS REQUIRED WITH EXECUTED CONTRACT

      1. Insurance Certificate.
      2. Proof of a federally approved or sanctioned affirmative action program, a Certificate of Employee Information Report Approval, a completed Employees Information Report (Form AA302), or Form AA201 as applicable.
      3. Performance or payment or other Bonds as required by the Specifications.

    • SUB-BASE

      Materials placed in the roadbed to give it the required stability.

    • SUB-GRADE

      The surface upon which the pavement is placed.

    • SURETY

      The corporate body which is bound with and for the Contractor, and which engages to be responsible for his debts pertaining to and for his acceptable performance of the work for which he has contracted.

    Submission Requirements

    • Statement of Ownership Disclosure (required)

      Please download the document below, complete, and upload.

      Failure to submit this document is mandatory cause for rejection of the bid.

    • Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety (required)

      Instructions for Bidders submitting a physical Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety

        1. Download and complete the attached documents.
        2. The guarantee & Consent of Surety must be physically received by the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents in a sealed envelope CLEARLY marked with the name of the bid and date and time of the bid opening.
        3. If submitting a cashiers check, certified check, or physical bid bond and surety:
          1. An image of the check/bond & consent of surety must be included with the bid or proposal submitted through the OpenGov platform as an attachment to this question.
          2. The physical check/bond & Consent of Surety must be submitted to the local unit in a sealed envelope clearly marked as part of the bid response as noted above. 
        4. Bid Security & Consent of Surety may be mailed or hand delivered to the following address:

          Township of Middletown
          Attn: Central Purchasing
          Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid
          1 Kings Highway
          Middletown, NJ, 07748

        5. The Bid Guarantee & Consent of Surety may also be hand delivered at the public bid opening and must be received no later than the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          1. It is highly suggested that all bid guarantees & consents of sureties are delivered to Central Purchasing BEFORE the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          2. The Township is not responsible for late submissions and no consideration will be made for a bid security and/or consents of surety received after the date and time stipulated in the bid documents even if you have completed your bid online.

      1. Instructions for Bidders submitting a Bid Guarantee and Consent of Surety through Surety2000
        1. Log in, or register for an account with Surety2000 here: https://dashboard.surety2000.com/#/login
        2. Upload a copy of the confirmation of the filing of the electronic bond to this question. 
        3. Proceed to the "Electronic Filing of Bid Guarantee" question and input your bond's serial number.

      Failure to submit this document is mandatory cause for rejection of the bid.

    • Bid Guarantee (required)

      Instructions for Bidders submitting a physical Bid Guarantee

        1. Download and complete the attached document.
        2. The guarantee must be physically received by the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents in a sealed envelope CLEARLY marked with the name of the bid and date and time of the bid opening.
        3. If submitting a cashiers check, certified check, or physical bid bond:
          1. An image of the check/bond must be included with the bid or proposal submitted through the OpenGov platform as an attachment to this question.
          2. The physical check/bond must be submitted to the local unit in a sealed envelope clearly marked as part of the bid response as noted above. 
        4. Bid Security may be mailed or hand delivered to the following address:

          Township of Middletown
          Attn: Central Purchasing
          Tree Trimming & Removal - Rebid
          1 Kings Highway
          Middletown, NJ, 07748

        5. The Bid Guarantee may also be hand delivered at the public bid opening and must be received no later than the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          1. It is highly suggested that all bid guarantees are delivered to Central Purchasing BEFORE the date and time stipulated for the receipt of bids in the bid documents.

          2. The Township is not responsible for late submissions and no consideration will be made for a bid security received after the date and time stipulated in the bid documents even if you have completed your bid online.

      1. Instructions for Bidders submitting a Bid Guarantee through Surety2000
        1. Log in, or register for an account with Surety2000 here: https://dashboard.surety2000.com/#/login
        2. Upload a copy of the confirmation of the filing of the electronic bond to this question. 
        3. Proceed to the "Electronic Filing of Bid Guarantee" question and input your bond's serial number.

      Failure to submit this document is mandatory cause for rejection of the bid.

    • Electronic Verification of Bid Security (required)

      Please enter your Bid Bond serial number from Surety2000 below. 

      If you are not submitting an electronic bond through Surety2000 please enter N/A below.

      Failure to submit this information is mandatory cause for rejection of the bid.

    • Listing of Subcontractors (required)

      Please download the document below, complete, and upload.

      Failure to submit this document is mandatory cause for rejection of the bid.

    • Non-Collusion Affidavit

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Affirmative Action Regulations - G&S

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Affirmative Action Regulations Required Documentation

      Please upload one of the following:

      1. An existing federally approved or sanctioned affirmative action program.

       

      1. A Certificate of Employee Information Report Approval.

       

      1. If the Contractor cannot present “a” or “b”, the contractor is required to submit a completed Employees Information Report (Form AA302). This form will be made available to contractors by Middletown Township.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Affirmative Action Regulations Acknowledgement - Construction

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Certification of Non-Debarment for Federal Government Contracts

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Affidavit Attesting to Compliance with Prevailing Wage Laws of New Jersey

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Russia or Belarus

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Disclosure of Investment Activities in Iran

      Please download the document below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Contractor's Response to Evaluation Criteria, Scope of Work, & Pricing

      Please upload your company's response in relation to the evaluation criteria, scope of work, and your pricing proposal per the specifications here. 

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Equipment Certification

      Please download the documents below, complete, and upload.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Equipment Listing

      Please upload your equipment listing here.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Statement of Experience and Qualifications

      Please upload your experience in completing similar work.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Board of Tree Experts Business Registration and Licensing

      Please upload a copy of the following:

      1) Board of Tree Experts Business Registration

      2) Licensed Tree Care Operator License or Tree Expert License

    • Please upload your Line Clearance Arborist Certification & ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist credentials.
    • Public Works Contractor Registration(s) - GC & Subs

      Please upload your Public Works Contractor Registration as well as those of any subcontractors.

      These documents are being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Business Registration Certificate(s) - GC & Subs

      Please upload your Business Registration Certificate as well as those of any subcontractors.

      This document(s) is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • W9

      Please upload your W9.

      This document is being requested to be included with the bid.

    • Please select the type of solicitation. (required)
    • Please select the documents required with the Bid: (required)
    • The proposed work consists of: (required)
    • 8a Maintenance Bond: (required)
    • Do you need a pricing table? (required)
    • Term of Contract

      The Term of this Contract shall extend:

      XXX calendar days

      OR

      shal be completed by XXX date

    Questions & Answers

    Q (Rebid Reason): Can the township please clarify the reason for the rebid?

    A: The Township rejected all bids in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-13.2(d) to revise the specifications.


    Q (Rebid Difference): Can the township please clarify the differences between the original bid posting and this rebid?

    A: Please see Addendum #1.


    Q (Prevailing Wage): Does this project require prevailing wage rates? If so, can the township please provide the certified payroll from the previous three years?

    A: Please see Addendum #1.


    Q (Pricing Structure): The pricing asks for hourly rates. Are these rates portal to portal, or on the jobsite only? Do they include travel between two sites on the same day? For instance, if a tree is marked for removal on Monmouth Ave, and another on Leonardville Road, and we complete both the same day, do we have to deduct travel time between the two sites?

    A: Please see Addendum #1.


    Q (No subject): Regarding the Line Clearance Arborist Certification, would the Electrical Hazards Awareness Program, (EHAP) be sufficient to satisfy this requirement?

    A: Please see Addendum #1.


    Key dates

    1. April 6, 2026Published
    2. April 28, 2026Responses Due

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    SLED stands for State, Local, and Education. These are solicitations issued by state governments, counties, cities, school districts, utilities, and higher education institutions — as opposed to federal agencies.

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