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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRFPResponse-StreamlineSouth Tahoe Public Utility District NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District 1275 Meadow Crest Drive,South Lake Tahoe,CA 96150 Attn:Bren Borley,530.543.6285 1 1.Cover Letter 3301 C Street,Suite 1000,Sacramento,CA 95816 Phone:(916)300-0620 Hannah Holmes,Senior Account Executive Email:hannah@getstreamline.com Response to Proposed Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District October 31,2023 South Tahoe Public Utility District 1275 Meadow Crest Drive South Lake Tahoe,CA 961590 Attn:Bren Borley,(530)543-6285 Dear Bren, We at Streamline Web are pleased to present this proposal for your consideration.It is likely quite a bit different than others you’ll receive,as we have built an online,subscription-based toolkit specifically for special districts.Traditional website-building companies and design firms are often not tailor-made for the needs of a special district,and over the last decade,we have honed our tools and offerings with the help of over 1,500 district customers across the United States.The specialized products and the best-in-class customer service that Streamline provides are what have allowed us to retain 99%of our customers since day one,and we are eager to share our offerings with STUPD. Working on the Streamline Platform will provide seamless and easy-to-use tools for some of STUPD’s biggest areas of concern;the site will always be compliant with the most up-to-date federal and state requirements,and the built-in features will make it easy for internal STUPD personnel to quickly change content and design,integrate social media postings for increased community engagement and manage current and past posts (and non-ADA compliant PDFs)with ease.These are a few of the many tools that come with the Streamline website tool chest. Special districts are doing important work at the most local level,and we would be honored to partner with you to help with that work.We know that standardized solutions for special districts lead to better technology and better service and will help empower you to serve your community better.We would love to provide a demo to your team at your convenience and welcome any questions you may have. Sincerely, 2 2.Qualifications and Experience i.Why choose Streamline? By choosing Streamline as a partner for your website,you will become part of a community.Our customers work together every day to improve our website options and capabilities to better serve their needs–over the past year,every feature we’ve built came from a customer request.The platform is constantly updated with new features and improvements,including everything needed to keep you compliant with state and federal regulations,the highest levels of cybersecurity on the back end,and front-end efficiencies to make your daily work easier. We work holistically with our customers to ensure they’re up to date with everything they need to know to navigate evolving opportunities and risks.As a Streamline customer,you’ll have access to ongoing education (webinars,blog posts,talks)related to a variety of topics,including ADA compliance,social media best practices,and AI use cases.We are also doing everything in our power to support your work at a policy level;we are active partners with CSDA and the National Organization of Special Districts (NSDC)and frequently support policy efforts in California and beyond that enable districts to continue their good work (and avoid onerous,unfunded state mandates).We live and breathe all things Special District. Based out of Sacramento,Streamline currently has 37 in-house,full-time employees to support the Administrative,Sales,Marketing,Customer Success and support,Product,Engineering,and Executive departments.Throughout this partnership,STUPD will be working with a select Customer Onboarding and Success team to answer any questions at any time. 3 ii.Key personnel Mac Clemmens,CEO,has a passion for accessible technology and helping local government thrive, and he has worked with governments at every scale to offer compliant digital tools through Streamline and his previous company,Digital Deployment.Mac has worked closely with both CSDA and the National Coalition of Special Districts to partner with districts across the county to ensure ease and compliance with state and federal regulations.In 2018,Mac won the “access award”from Disability Rights California,the nation’s largest disability advocacy group,for his work creating ADA-compliant websites for various disabilities. Rachel Stern,Chief Strategy Officer,brings over a decade of experience working with state and local governments across the county to digitally transform their services for better constituent engagement at every level.Rachel leads Streamline’s data and government affairs team and consults frequently with government and private sector companies on how to create effective public-private partnerships. Stephen Potenza,Head of Engineering,brings almost 20 years of experience developing web-based applications.In addition to his technical expertise,he has an eye for design and brings an empathetic approach to user interface architecture. Lindsay Hardy,Head of Product Design,is a thought leader in user experience and has designed some of the largest institutional websites in the United States,including Sac Metro,Nevada Irrigation District,and Yuba-Sutter Transit District..Prior to Streamline,he served in marketing leadership and design at the University of California,Davis,and Apple. Ben Benarivo,Senior Analytics Engineer,is a seasoned data professional,currently a Senior Analytics Manager at Streamline.With over 6 years of experience,he has excelled in project management and data analytics at impact-focused startups and Siemens.He holds a Master's in Management Science and Engineering with a concentration in Analytics from Columbia University, along with bachelor's degrees in Project Management and Mechanical Engineering with a Mechatronics specialization from two other universities.He also holds an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certificate. Maria Lara,Senior Director of Legislative Affairs,is one of Streamline’s earliest employees and has worked with over 500 districts on their websites for the past 6 years.As a certified full-stack web developer,Maria also speaks on issues of particular importance to districts,such as how to be sure your website is ADA compliant,search engine optimization,and cybersecurity best practices. Karey Hansen,Head of Customer Happiness,ensures all customers are onboarded,trained,and supported for their website.She leads customer training sessions,and webinars and is available first-hand for any support needed. 4 3.Examples and Past Performance The reason why some of the largest Special Districts in the nation choose Streamline is because it offers a distinctive blend of contemporary design and forward-thinking tools while seamlessly integrating with state and federal mandates. i.South Utah Valley Electric Service District -www.sesdofutah.org Problem -Having operated for over a century with a large customer base,South Utah Valley Electric Service District recognized the importance of enhancing their online presence to better serve their community.However,their custom-coded website on Drupal was costly to maintain,and making necessary updates was a time-consuming process due to reliance on external marketing and PR firms. To obtain a more sophisticated design and additional features,they were faced with the prospect of incurring even higher expenses.Thus,the challenge was to find a more cost-effective and efficient solution to revamp their website and keep pace with the evolving digital landscape. Solution -Thanks to Streamline,SESD achieved its design and content goals and gained control over new features like e-signatures,blogging,social media integration,mapping,and customizations.Their website became easier to use,resulting in cost savings of over $400 per month and 8 hours a month on updates.Moreover,they avoided a costly $6,000 redesign fee from their previous provider,making Streamline an efficient and cost-effective solution for their digital needs. 5 ii.Oak Lodge Water Services -oaklodgewaterservices.org Problem -During Oak Lodge Water Services'transition from district to authority,their top priority was communicating the “rebrand”to over 5,200 customers.Without being able to make changes on the website themselves,they faced a costly ($5,000+)and time-consuming (3+months)redesign through Municode (now CivicPlus).They also struggled with MailChimp integration and aimed to launch a newsletter to meet modern outreach standards for their highly engaged customer base. Solution -Through collaboration with Streamline's customer success team,the district quickly accomplished a successful website rebrand.Streamline handled the heavy lifting of content migration, allowing their IT and outreach teams to make real-time changes effortlessly on their own.This eliminated the need to revisit redesign proposals,putting the tools they needed right at their fingertips. On top of this,they leveraged Streamline's Engage tool to achieve more efficient and cost-effective communication via email and social media integration through the website. 6 ii.Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District -metrofire.ca.gov Problem -As the 7th largest fire agency in the State of California,Sacramento Metropolitan Fire realized that they needed to bring their website to the modern age.However,due to the constantly evolving nature of their service,they could not afford to sacrifice autonomy and the ability to make updates quickly.Adding to their concerns,they discovered numerous website solutions lacked ADA compliance,posing a liability risk and limiting their ability to serve the entire community. Solution -With Streamline,Sacramento Metropolitan Fire found a modern and user-friendly website design that significantly improved public navigation.They even added new tools,like an interactive map for their 16 departments and registration for their Fire Camp.Rather than a website that was merely used for updates,it is now a place to showcase all of the great work they did for the community outside of fighting fires. 7 4.Technical Approach i.What You Get with a Streamline Site: Easily Adaptable Website ●Simple to use CMS:provides complete control over your menus,content,videos,images, and files.Set granular permissions to assign various levels of access for editors. ●Unlimited hosting and support:upload as many files as you like,and reach out anytime you need us for something. ●Clear,intuitive control:over content,including image size and placement. ●Theme customizer:allows you to change the look and feel of your site in seconds,with no technical knowledge or cost (see some of the options at http://tinyurl.com/streamline-theme) ●Search engine optimized:Streamline is SEO-enabled by default with short URLs,custom site description,and more. ●Secure:We work with the LetsEncrypt certificate service to automatically issue and renew your SSL certificates at no additional charge.This improves your search engine ranking automatically! ●Site analytics:easily embed Google Analytics and set up automated reports. ●Easy integrations (SSO,GIS,PlanetBids):Streamline easily integrates with any desired tools,now or later.For SSO,a Streamline site will support all standard Saml SSO,Including Office365 and Google Workspace out of the box with some configuration.Federated SSO like ADFS and Azure B2C may require additional discovery and integration. ●Printable Pages:take your site’s resources from digital to paper with a click Increased Engagement and Coordination ●Notifications:easily integrated banner and alert system for annual posting notifications to constituents and other pressing district news. ●Search inside PDFs:allows your visitors to find documents matching their search terms that are inside file attachments like PDFs,Word Docs,etc. ●Responsive and mobile-friendly:out of the box–no need to manage a separate app or content for your mobile site.You won’t get penalized by Google and removed from search engine results on mobile devices. ●Emergency notification drop-down:notify site visitors of special events,in either notice mode (gray)or emergency mode (red).Set or disable with the click of a button. ●Push to social or email subscribers:directly from a website page. ●Translation capability:enable Google Translate for the languages of your choice (no charge). ●In-app calendar:that automatically populates meetings and events,with the ability to create repeatable events (new feature!) ●Livestream:Embedded YouTube livestream so your customers can follow your most pressing news in real-time.If there are streaming needs beyond that capability,Streamline will work with STUPD to do a live stream needs assessment and find a separate vendor that will easily integrate with the site. 8 ●E-signatures:successfully allow your customers to sign documents within the site instead of using a third-party provider. Proactive Compliance Coverage ●Meeting dashboard:The meeting dashboard is designed to help special districts keep up to date with California’s SB 929.See at a glance if you’re missing any agendas or minutes,and upload unlimited supporting documents. ●Agenda reminders:Use the agenda reminder functionality to send an email to the Board Secretary before the posting deadline so you never forget to post your agenda online. ●A clear indication of state compliance:The transparency dashboard clearly indicates the website content required in CA and allows you to create and publish this content with ease. ●Compliance with all current and upcoming government requirements:The state will likely keep passing on mandated posting requirements,and we’ll be here to provide the tools you need to comply. ●ADA /Section 508 compliance:for visitors with disabilities,as required by federal and CA law. ●Templated “starter”content:Use our starter content to draft various policies (for example, your Brown Act compliance policy),potentially saving thousands of dollars in legal fees. Enterprise Tools ●PDF Remediation:Streamline is the first platform to offer a solution to remediate non-ADA-compliant PDFs inside the application ●Design ++Bundle:Customized design bundles with the ability to insert and control dynamic visual regions on the site,integrate custom components,and an annual design review. ●ADA Shield Bundle:Streamline sites automatically scan for ADA compliance issues,but the ADA Shield bundle includes additional PDF remediation,closed captioning,annual manual scans,and additional insurance specifically to cover the cost of any web accessibility issues, which most traditional insurance providers do not. Proactive Website Monitoring ●Uptime monitoring:We are notified within a minute of any issue with the platform due to ongoing automated checks. Rapid Response ●US-based support:our team will respond immediately to business-critical issues.All responses are tracked and routed using an online ticketing system. Best Practices ●Code security:our architecture features an immutable codebase,so platform code cannot be changed outside of our normal dev-test-release process. ●Secure headers:We enforce HSTS and Content Security Policy headers. ●Code Status Monitoring:We monitor NIST,and MS-ISAC,and use package managers to monitor the code status of all code.Any security patch is deployed within 24 hours of public disclosure.Follows the Twelve-Factor Methodology for application design. 9 Reliability and Backups ●Best-in-class cloud hosting:US-based Infrastructure on Amazon Web Services ●99.95%uptime:even when accounting for scheduled maintenance,the reliability of the platform exceeds industry standards ●Multi-region redundancy:we use multiple Amazon availability zones for seamless failovers in the case of a broad outage ●Hourly backups:made possible with Amazon Aurora,a distributed,fault-tolerant, self-healing storage system that auto-scales up to 128TB per database instance.It delivers high performance and availability with up to 15 low-latency read replicas,point-in-time recovery,continuous backup to Amazon S3,and replication across three Availability Zones (AZs) Independently-Verified Security ●Security audits:we conduct two types of audits:Automated security scans through industry-standard tools and manual penetration testing via 3rd party security firms ●Security awareness training:ensuring that your staff are aware of phishing attacks and other schemes is essential ●Independent site scans:we have partnered with numerous industry leaders,including SecureWorks to independently scan and certify the security of the platform on behalf of the systems we serve ●Secure by design:we have designed our platform to reduce the attack surface as much as possible at the platform architecture level Insured ●Full COI coverage included:we take a holistic approach to managing the integrity of our hosting platform by extending our company's $2 million cyber insurance to your organization through a certificate of additional insured (COI)upon request. We have been incident-free in our 10+years of hosting websites and applications,and we remain proactive and vigilant on behalf of all of our customers. 10 ii.Implementation Process:Creating a website should be more than successful–it should also be delightful.Our proven process instills confidence,taking projects from initiation to launch in a predictable, transparent way. ●In-depth discovery services explore your purpose and engage stakeholders to align the entire organization on project goals.After all,your website redesign process might be the first time various parts of your organization have communicated. ●Our team inventories your current content,develops a migration strategy,and deeply analyzes empirical user data to bring the 10%of content that 90%of users are looking for to the forefront so your users can find things quickly and accurately. ●Our team of designers creates powerful designs that “listen”to user needs and drive key actions,and then we refine the design until it’s ready for implementation. ●Our developers bring your site to life when they implement your new design,features,and functionality.As you work with your content,a dedicated front-end developer and strategist will continue to refine your site,making it more engaging and improving its overall usability. ●We empower you to manage your own content with comprehensive training,guiding your team on content best practices,governance,and workflow so you can launch and maintain a website that reflects the very best of your organization. Content Migration ●As part of Streamline’s Customer Success Department,our dedicated Implementation Managers and Content Migration Team will handle all transfer of content from your previous site,including HTML,embedded content,hyperlinks,images,videos,and documents.Initial website design and structure will be principally agreed upon with STUPD district stakeholders and can be updated following the staff online training session. 11 Phase Needed Steps Why?Timeline 1.Domain Access domain registrar account control panel or DNS records Update DNS records or transfer domain to Streamline (via Amazon AWS) Without the ability to “point”your domain to your new website,we can’t go live! Week 1 2.Migration Review content being migrated and discuss what to keep and what to not migrate Your old site content will be migrated to your new site. Files older than 3 years old will be “archived”into .zip folders. To accelerate the onboarding process and take care of the “heavy lifting”for you! Weeks 1 -4 3.Compliance Address missing items in the Compliance dashboard Update flagged Accessibility items within the accessibility dashboard (Our Getting Started training reviews how to do so) Special District websites should comply with all applicable regulations and be accessible to everyone! Week 5 4.Design Choose a design concept for your new website using our website gallery We offer customized design utilizing code (HTML,CSS, etc.) It’s important to express your district’s brand to better connect with your community! Week 6 5.Misc. Requirements Anything necessary for your site to function,including: -Payments (Streamline payments,third-party bill pay) -Registration (Classes,events, etc.) -3rd Party embeds (Maps, calendars,and data) Your district may have other components to consider when launching your website TBD 12 iii.Staff Members Leading in this Project: ●Head of Customer Success:Karey Hansen is known for her distinguished 15-year career at Sunrise Recreation and Park District,where she worked in various capacities to assist with district operations while managing more than 100 employees.She went to work for a special district because she was inspired by her father’s passion to serve others as a general manager of a water district. ●Customer Success Account Managers:Adrianna Sells,Kurt Danilson,and Lindsee Green are all highly experienced customer success account managers.Combined,they have over 10+years of experience in helping special districts launch effective websites. iv.Unlimited Support Free training and support from a real human whenever you need it Training We’ll teach you how to use your website ➔1-hour start-up training for all users ➔New staff member training as needed ➔Hundreds of on-demand tutorials ➔Monthly Masterclass webinars Support We’ll jump in if you need help getting it done ➔Dedicated phone support hotline ➔Request help through your website ➔One-on-one Zoom session ➔Email support When you reach out,a real-human will get back to you in less than 1-hour 94%of all submitted support issues receive a positive resolution rating by customers “Streamline has made my life so much easier!I don't procrastinate because I'm intimidated,and I know that if I need help,I can ask.Thank you for taking a daunting task and making it easy,even fun,so that our patrons can find the information they need when they need it.” -Su Liudahl,Creswell Library District “When I needed help getting more detailed work done on the website,I was able to schedule a one-on-one with the team in no time.During our meeting,they showed me some cool tricks and got our website looking outstanding!Plus they’re just friendly and great to work with.Definitely recommend Streamline to everyone who needs it.” -Taylor Gullikson,Los Olivos Community Services District 13 EXHIBIT B -COST PROPOSAL FORM RFP No.RFP-23-24-IT01 Title:Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District Cost or price information shall not be included in any other part of the bid proposal unless specifically requested. For evaluation,the District shall assume specification items left blank will not be furnished and shall be automatically interpreted as a "NO"for that particular item.Any deviations from the written specification as shown in this RFP shall be noted on the District provided form,Exhibit L - Deviations and Exceptions Form.Respondents are to itemize any and all additional charges to furnish and deliver services bid.Proposal price alone will not be the sole determining factor in the selection of the contractor for this work.The District will consider the proposal costs for all proposal items identified herein together with the evaluation criteria stated herein to form the basis for its decision. Enter unit prices for Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District and other support services.Pricing shall be firm fixed price and shall include all costs in accordance with all contract requirements,including but not limited to fully-burdened labor,payroll and other taxes, fringes,licenses and permits,insurance,workforce productivity,coordination,transportation,field overhead,general and administrative overhead,and profit.The respondent shall submit a cost proposal containing all costs to the District. DOWNLOAD THE EXCEL PRICING FILE:Bidders can access and download Excel Pricing File for this Request for Proposal by logging into PlanetBids™with your username and password.Once you have located the RFP project,double click on the appropriate line to open the bid.All bid related information is located within the different tabs of the bid details.Only applicable tabs will be available within the Bid.Go to the Documents/Attachments tab which allows you to view and/or download RFP documents associated with the project.Select the document titled,Exhibit B –Cost Proposal Form by double clicking on the title or click the “Download”button on the lower,left corner of the Electronic Attachments section. Exhibit B –Minimum Specifications &Cost Proposal Form Is provided in a separate document UNAPPROVED ALTERATIONS TO EXCEL PRICING FILE:Bidders who materially alter the original content of the Excel pricing file (e.g.specifications,formulas,etc.)issued by the DISTRICT may be found non responsive and ineligible for award of this Request for Proposals. 14 EXHIBIT E -RESPONDENT SIGNATURE /COVER PAGE RFP No.RFP-23-24-IT01 Title:Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District 3.RESPONDENT Firm Name:Streamline Contact Name:Hannah Holmes Principal Address:3301 C Street,Sacramento,CA,95816 Local Address:3301 C Street,Sacramento,CA,95816 Phone:Fax:916-900-1810 Email:info@getstreamline.com Structure:[]Sole Proprietor []Partnership [X]Corporation []Joint Venture Tax ID No:California Contractor License No:N/A 4.Department of Industrial Relations (DIR)Registration No.-N/A Registration Date:N/A Expiration Date:N/A Registration Date:N/A Expiration Date:N/A Registration Date:N/A Expiration Date:N/A Note:Public works contractors are now able to register for one,two,or three fiscal years (July 1-June 30)to ensure there is no period of lapse during project/contract term. 5.Prices: A.Prices shall be F.O.B.Destination or for the service rendered. B.Payment Terms:Net 45 C.Proposers shall honor proposal prices for one hundred twenty (120)days or for the stated contract period whichever is longer. THIS PROPOSAL IS BEING SUBMITTED BY:Hannah Holmes The undersigned offers and agrees to furnish the goods or services at the price(s)entered herein subject to the terms and conditions attached hereto.I CERTIFY that (1)the proposal document has been read and 15 understood and that all of the conditions contained therein are acceptable,(2)I have thoroughly examined and become familiar with the specifications and/or scope of services outlined in this solicitation and further, to the best of my knowledge the information contained in this bid proposal is accurate and complete and that (3)I have the legal authority to commit this firm to a contractual agreement. Printed Name:Hannah Holmes Title:Special District Manager Signature: Date: Date:11/01/23 16 EXHIBIT H –NONCOLLUSION DECLARATION TO BE EXECUTED BY BIDDER AND SUBMITTED WITH BID The undersigned declares: I am the Special District Manager (Position)of Streamline (Firm),the party making the foregoing bid. The bid is not made in the interest of,or on behalf of,any undisclosed person,partnership, company,association,organization,or corporation.The bid is genuine and not collusive or sham. The bidder has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other bidder to put in a false or sham bid.The bidder has not directly or indirectly colluded,conspired,connived,or agreed with any bidder or anyone else to put in a sham bid,or to refrain from bidding.The bidder has not in any manner,directly or indirectly,sought by agreement,communication,or conference with anyone to fix the bid price of the bidder or any other bidder,or to fix any overhead,profit,or cost element of the bid price,or of that of any other bidder.All statements contained in the bid are true.The bidder has not,directly or indirectly,submitted his or her bid price or any breakdown thereof,or the contents thereof,or divulged information or data relative thereto,to any corporation,partnership,company,association,organization,bid depository,or to any member or agent thereof,to effectuate a collusive or sham bid,and has not paid,and will not pay,any person or entity for such purpose. Any person executing this declaration on behalf of a bidder that is a corporation,partnership,joint venture,limited liability company,limited liability partnership,or any other entity,hereby represents that he or she has full power to execute,and does execute,this declaration on behalf of the bidder. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct and that this declaration is executed on __________[date],at ________________[city],__________________[state]. _____________________________________________ Signature of Declarer Subscribed and sworn to before me this______day of ________________,20______. ___________________________________________________ Signature of Notary Public in and for the County of________________________________ 17 11/02/2023 232ndNovember Collin TexasMcKinney State of Texas, County of Collin Notarized online using audio-video communication State of_________________________________ 18 EXHIBIT I –CERTIFICATION OF INSURABILITY I hereby swear (or affirm)under the penalty of perjury: As an authorized representative of the proposing company,should our Company be determined to be the Successful Proposer,our Company will promptly provide such proof of insurance to the District within five (5)business days in reply to the District’s Notice of Intent to Award.The DISTRICT will remind the Apparent Successful Proposer in the Notice of Intent to Award letter. Proof of insurance requirements may be submitted electronically to the email address below with the RFP Number and Title referenced in the Subject field: To:cskelly@stpud.us Contracts will not be executed until formal proof of all required insurance(s)pursuant to Exhibit N –Master Agreement for Consulting Services for Proposal No.RFP-23-24-IT01 Title:Website Redesign for South Tahoe Public Utility District have been received and approved by the DISTRICT.It is agreed that the Apparent Successful Proposer shall maintain in force at all times during the performance of the engagement all policy or policies of insurance. If the DISTRICT requires corrections (i.e.,limits,endorsements)the Successful Proposer has five (5)days from such request to complete all corrections.Failure to meet these deadlines will allow the DISTRICT the right to reject the Proposer’s proposal as non-responsive and proceed to the next finalist. I hereby assure South Tahoe Public Utility District that the company has or is able to procure the insurance coverage(s)required should the Company be awarded the Contract and shall maintain all the insurance requirements by the submission of this offer. Proposer Company Name:Streamline Signature of Authorized Representative signing on behalf on Proposer: Print Name of Authorized Representative of Proposer Company: Mac Clemmens Date:11/01/23 19 EXHIBIT J -BIDDER DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS The Bidder must provide a declarative (yes/no)answer regarding the following questions.If any answer is affirmative,the Bidder must provide full details about the matter.While not an automatic cause for disqualification,an affirmative answer may result in an evaluation of the Bidder’s responsibility.A decision will then be made based on the seriousness of the matter,the matter’s possible impact on the performance of the contract,and the best interests of the South Tahoe Public Utility District. Within the past five (5)years: ITE M DISCLOSURE STATEMENT YES NO A.Has the Bidder and/or subject company had a contract terminated for default or cause? X B.Has the Bidder and/or subject company been assessed any penalties,including liquidated damages,under any of its existing or past contracts with any organization or governmental entity? X C.Has the Bidder and/or subject company been the subject of any governmental action limiting the right of the Bidder and/or subject company to do business with that entity or any other governmental entity? X D.Has trading in the stock of the subject company ever been suspended?Give date and explanation. X E.Has the Bidder and/or subject company previously operated as a like-kind business under any other business name and/or taxpayer identification number? X Details:Streamline previously operated under its parent company,Digital Deployment,since 2015.Streamline became incorporated as of May 20th,2022. 20 F.Has the Bidder and/or subject company,any company officer,or any owner of a twenty (20%)percent interest or greater in the subject company,filed bankruptcy, reorganization,a debt arrangement,moratorium,or any proceeding under any bankruptcy or insolvency law,or any dissolution or liquidation proceeding? X G.Has the Bidder and/or subject company,any company officer,or any owner of a twenty (20%)percent interest or greater in the company,been convicted of a felony or is currently under indictment on any felony charge? X By the signature affixed to Exhibit E –Offer Signature /Cover Page of this Solicitation, Respondent hereby certifies that the above information is true and accurate. This completed form must be returned as part of the bid response.Failure to complete this page may deem your bid not responsive. 21 EXHIBIT K –CLIENT REFERENCES The following is a list of four (4)references that most closely reflect similar projects to the scope of services/work of the South Tahoe Public Utility District within the past three (3)years. References will be asked to complete a questionnaire and asked to return it to the Information Technology Department directly by a designated date and time.It is the Respondent’s responsibility to ensure that Reference Contacts are willing to provide a reference.To expedite the evaluation process the District requests accurate email and/or fax number information be provided. Reference #1 Name of Organization:South Placer Municipal Utility District Address:5807 Springview Dr,Rocklin,CA 95677 Email Address:hniederberger@spmud.ca.gov Telephone:(916)786-8555 Contact Name:Herbert Niederberger Contact Title:General Manager Service Dates:March 2017-present Project Manager:Bid No.(if applicable) Service Dates:January 2019 -present Summary of Project:Website re-design,migration,hosting,and support. Project Cost:~$23,000 to-date Reference #2 Name of Organization:Fallbrook Public Utility District Address:990 E Mission Rd,Fallbrook,CA 92028 Email Address:noelle@fpud.com Telephone:(951)609-4035 Contact Name:Noelle Denke Contact Title:Public Information Officer Service Dates:December 2016 -present Project Manager:Bid No.(if applicable) Summary of Project:Website re-design,migration,hosting,and support. Project Cost:~$57,000 to-date Reference #3 Name of Organization:Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District Address:10545 Armstrong Ave,#200,Mather,CA 95655 Email Address:roseberry.mathew@metrofire.ca.gov Telephone:(916)859-4340 22 Contact Name:Mathew Rosenberry Contact Title:Director of Information Technology Service Dates:April 2022 -present Project Manager:Bid No.(if applicable) Summary of Project:Website re-design,migration,hosting,and support. Project Cost:~$17,000 to-date Reference #4 Name of Organization:Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District Address:13001 W Garden Grove Blvd,Garden Grove,CA 92843 Email Address:rhoward@ocvcd.org Telephone:(760)685-3725 Contact Name:Rick Howard Contact Title:General Manager Service Dates:May 2022 -present Project Manager:Bid No.(if applicable) Summary of Project:Website re-design,migration,hosting and support. Project Cost:~$14,000 to-date 23 EXHIBIT L -DEVIATIONS and/or EXCEPTIONS FORM []Specifications and/or Requirements -N/A []Contract for Services Provisions (No exceptions and/or deviations to insurance requirements allowed)-N/A All deviations and/or exceptions to the requirements of this solicitation or provisions in the Master Agreement for Consulting Services must be noted below.The District will consider any deviations and/or exceptions indicated in its award decisions.The District reserves the right to accept or reject any and all responses based on any deviation and/or exception indicated on this form. Respondents are cautioned that by taking any exception they may be materially deviating from the RFP.Please do not attach a company letterhead in lieu of any entry on the section below. In the absence of any entry on the section below,the bidder assures the District of their full compliance with the specification and conditions as listed in this solicitation.The page number, paragraph,and item number should be referenced when deviating from the specification and must be included. The District reserves the right to reject any or all cost proposals as a result of this RFP and to waive any informality or irregularity in any bid proposal received and to be the sole judge of the merits of the respective cost proposals received,and to accept or further negotiate cost,terms, or conditions of any cost proposal determined by the District to be in the best interest of the District even though not the lowest bid.This form may be duplicated if additional pages are needed. Reference No.Description -N/A Company Name-Streamline Printed Name and Title-Hannah Holmes,Senior Account Executive Authorized Signature- 24 EXHIBIT M –SUBCONTRACTOR STATEMENT (IMPORTANT NOTE:This form MUST be returned with Respondent’s bid proposal)(This form may be duplicated to provide additional subcontractor information) The Prime Contractor is required to state the name and address of each subcontractor who will perform work in an amount in excess of one-half of one percent (0.5%)of the total contract price and the portion of the work that each subcontractor will do.The undersigned submits herewith this list of subcontractors whom they propose to employ on the work,with the proper firm name and business address of each and a statement of work or proposed item that will be done by each subcontractor. Check if Subcontractor will be used:Yes []No [x] The following person(s)will be []or []have been contracted to furnish labor and/or materials for this project: Subcontractor Company Name: DIR Contractor Registration Number: Federal ID Number: Street Address: District,State,Zip: Office Phone: Fax Number: Primary Contact &Title: Email Address: Contract Amount: Type of work: []Brickwork /Masonry []Carpentry /Millwork []Concrete []Electrical –Access Control []Electrical –Fire Alarm []Electrical –Telecommunications [] Elevator []Excavation –Grading []Excavation –Grading (Site Utilities)[]Fire Protection [] Flooring []Heavy Construction []HVAC –Controls []HVAC –Duckwork []HVAC –Hydronic [] 25 Landscaping []Painting []Paving []Plumbing []Roofing /Siding/[]Windows /Curtainwall Sheet Metal []Wrecking /Demolition []Material Supplier Only []Other:Specify Comments: Authorized Signature: Printed Name/Title:Hannah Holmes-Senior Account Executive 26 EXHIBIT N –MASTER AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES Provided in separate document 27 Exhibit N MASTER AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES _________________________________ THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of the _____ day of ___________, 2023 by and between South Tahoe Public Utility District, hereinafter referred to as "DISTRICT" and _______________________, hereinafter referred to as "CONSULTANT". RECITALS A. DISTRICT periodically makes improvements to its water, wastewater and ancillary facilities, for which it may require the services of a consultant. B. DISTRICT proposes to provide a MASTER AGREEMENT for consulting services which will be required by DISTRICT in general support of projects under separate titles (Task Orders). The general scope of services outlined in this MASTER AGREEMENT will be further defined by a series of Task Orders which will set forth the services to be performed (detailed scope), costs, and time for completion. C. DISTRICT desires to secure professional consulting services for said projects and CONSULTANT represents that CONSULTANT possesses the professional qualifications to provide such consulting services. D. DISTRICT and CONSULTANT agree to enter into this MASTER AGREEMENT for the performance of consulting services on the terms and conditions stated in this MASTER AGREEMENT. NOW THEREFORE, for and in consideration of their mutual promises and subject to the terms, provisions and conditions hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows: ARTICLE I. - CONSULTING SERVICES A. Upon execution of this agreement and subsequent Task Orders by both parties, and upon receipt of written authorization from DISTRICT, CONSULTANT at CONSULTANT's sole cost and expense (to be reimbursed as outlined in ARTICLE IV) and to the satisfaction of DISTRICT, shall perform the services (Services) set forth in each Task Order and represented by a separate proposal for each Task Order. The Services shall be assigned to CONSULTANT by DISTRICT for the various projects as planned and developed by DISTRICT. Each Task Order shall specify the Services to be performed, the time schedules for completion of the Task Order and for completion of all tasks (Tasks) within the Task Order, and the cost (Cost Ceiling) including all fees, costs and expenses, both direct and indirect, of the Task Order, but shall otherwise be governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as modified by the individual Task Orders. Task Orders shall be in writing, signed by both parties in advance, and shall be attached to this Agreement as consecutive exhibits beginning with Task Order 1. B. CONSULTANT agrees to comply with the schedule as set forth in each Task Order, and to provide Services in a timely manner to allow DISTRICT’s project(s) to be constructed as planned by DISTRICT. In the event CONSULTANT is not able to comply with the project schedule, a written statement from CONSULTANT will be required showing CONSULTANT's plan to bring schedule back into compliance to meet completion date. In the event of delays due to causes beyond the control of CONSULTANT, an extension to the schedule for performance shall be negotiated. C. CONSULTANT shall provide DISTRICT with a review of the budget amount when 75% of the Cost Ceiling of each Task Order has been expended. CONSULTANT shall be entitled to reallocate costs among subtasks within a Task. DISTRICT shall have the right to transfer Tasks and costs within the same or other Task Order(s). CONSULTANT may request a revision in the Cost Ceiling for performance of the Task Order, and will relate the rationale for the revision to the specific basis of estimate. Such notification will be submitted to DISTRICT at the earliest possible date. The Cost Ceiling will not be exceeded without approval by DISTRICT and written amendment to the Task Order. D. In the case of changes affecting project scope resulting from new findings, unanticipated conditions, or other conflicts or discrepancies, CONSULTANT shall promptly notify the DISTRICT of the identified changes and advise the DISTRICT of a recommended solution. Additional Services shall not be performed without prior written authorization of DISTRICT. DISTRICT may order, via a written amendment signed by each party’s authorized representative, changes in scope or character of Services, either decreasing or increasing the amount of CONSULTANT’S services associated with a given Task Order. An order for additional services constitutes a change to the Task Order and shall be made in writing, dated, and appended to that Task Order. Compensation for Additional Services shall be on the basis of Time and Materials or Lump Sum, to be agreed upon at the time of request for Additional Services. The estimated amount of compensation for Additional Services will be determined at the time the Additional Services are requested. ARTICLE II. - RESPONSIBILITIES OF DISTRICT A. DISTRICT shall furnish to or make available for examination by CONSULTANT, as it may request, all data and information which DISTRICT may have available, and CONSULTANT may rely upon such data and information developed exclusively by DISTRICT in the performance of CONSULTANT's services. B. DISTRICT shall secure and pay for all permits and licenses (other than permits and licenses under any patent or invention) and furnish all deposits and bonds necessary in connection with the Projects, except licenses required to permit CONSULTANT to do business at the place where its services are to be performed. CONSULTANT will assist DISTRICT in procuring necessary licenses or permits if required by DISTRICT to do so. C. In order that DISTRICT may meet its obligations with respect to the technical quality of the services to be performed under this Master Agreement, the services performed by CONSULTANT under this Agreement shall be under the general supervision and direction of the DISTRICT’s Acting General Manager (DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE), who shall be Mr. Paul Hughes, CFO, CONSULTANT and its officers, employees, agents, affiliates, and subcontractors shall act in complete harmony and coordination with the DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE. The DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE shall keep in touch with the CONSULTANT during the duration of the Task Orders and shall be the authorized medium of communication for and with District matters pertaining thereto. DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE may from time to time delegate any or all of his supervisory responsibility to appropriate staff members, and the DISTRICT shall so inform CONSULTANT before the effective date of each such delegation. ARTICLE III. - RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONSULTANT A. In rendering the professional services, CONSULTANT is an independent contractor, the DISTRICT being interested only in the result obtained, and the manner and means of conducting such professional services will be under the sole control of CONSULTANT, except that nothing herein shall be deemed to negate DISTRICT's right to direct the nature of the Services requested and to direct the work in terms of timing and coordination with the Projects. B. CONSULTANT shall secure approval of DISTRICT prior to executing contracts with subcontractors and prior to retaining subcontractors for any portion of services for DISTRICT. C. CONSULTANT shall be as fully responsible to DISTRICT for the negligent acts, errors, and/or omissions of its subcontractors, as it is for the negligent acts, errors and/or omissions of persons directly employed by it. CONSULTANT will be responsible for review and billing accuracy and for the direct payment for Services completed or equipment/materials supplied by all of its subcontractors. D. Nothing contained in the Agreement shall create any contractual relationship between any subcontractor and DISTRICT. E. Indemnification 1. CONSULTANT shall perform Services in a manner commensurate with prevailing professional standards of qualified and experienced personnel in CONSULTANT’S field. 2. CONSULTANT agrees to defend, indemnify and hold DISTRICT and each of its officers, employees, agents and representatives harmless from any claims, damage, liability or costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of defense) stemming from Services under this Agreement to the extent such claims, damage, liability or costs are caused by CONSULTANT’S negligence, recklessness or willful misconduct or by the negligence, recklessness or willful misconduct of CONSULTANT’S subconsultants, agents, or anyone acting on behalf of or at the direction of CONSULTANT. 3. DISTRICT agrees to defend, indemnify and hold CONSULTANT and each of its officers, employees, agents and representatives harmless from any claims, damage, liability or costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of defense) stemming from Services under this Agreement to the extent such claims, damage, liability or costs are caused by DISTRICT’S negligence, recklessness or willful misconduct or by the negligence, recklessness or willful misconduct of the DISTRICT’S subconsultants, agents, or anyone acting on behalf of or at the direction of the DISTRICT. 4. The provisions of this section survive the completion of services under or the termination of this Agreement. F. Insurance: The following are the basic requirements that CONSULTANT shall be responsible for at CONSULTANT's sole cost and expense, and for the full term of this Agreement and before commencement of services hereunder: 1. As a sole proprietor with no employees, CONSULTANT shall not be required to carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance. In the event that CONSULTANT adds employee(s), CONSULTANT shall then carry or require that there be carried Worker's Compensation Insurance for all of its employees and those of its subcontractors in accordance with the laws of the State of California.. 2. CONSULTANT shall carry or require that there be carried Commercial Liability Insurance including Automobile Coverage, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 for each person, in an amount of not less than $1,000,000 on account of one accident, and Property Damage Insurance in an amount not less than $1,000,000 single limit Bodily Injury and Property Damage Insurance per occurrence. 3. CONSULTANT shall carry Errors and Omissions Insurance in an amount not less than $1,000,000 with a deductible of not more than $500,000 for the life of the Agreement which shall include one year beyond completion of Services. 4. Before commencing services, CONSULTANT shall submit evidence of the coverage required to DISTRICT for review and approval. All such coverage shall be subject to approval by DISTRICT; approval of which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Such insurance shall be carried with financially responsible insurance companies, licensed in the State of California, and approved by DISTRICT; approval of which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Evidence of coverage shall ensure that such policies will not be canceled without 30 days prior written notice to DISTRICT. Commercial Liability policies, including Automobile Coverage and Property Damage Insurance, shall name DISTRICT, its officers, officials, volunteers, and employees as Additional Insured and as such persons, shall be Primary coverage. 5. It is the responsibility of the CONSULTANT to provide to the DISTRICT updated insurance certificates within 30 days after renewal or changes to insurance policies. 6. CONSULTANT shall grant to the DISTRICT a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of said CONSULTANT may acquire against the DISTRICT by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. CONSULTANT agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to affect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the DISTRICT has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer. 7. CONSULTANT shall require and verify that all subcontractors maintain insurance meeting all the requirements stated herein, and the DISTRICT shall be named as an additional insured on insurance required from subcontractors. 8. The District reserves the right to modify insurance requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances. G. CONSULTANT shall comply with all applicable laws, ordinances and codes of the Federal, State of California, and local governments. CONSULTANT shall hold DISTRICT harmless with respect to any damages to the extent arising from any tort committed in the performance of any of the services embraced by this AGREEMENT due to CONSULTANT's negligence. H. CONSULTANT is responsible for the health and safety of its employees, subconsultants, agents or anyone working on behalf or direction of CONSULTANT in the course of Services. CONSULTANT shall ensure that its employees, subconsultants, agents or anyone working on behalf of or under the direction of CONSULTANT shall have experience and knowledge of Federal, State and local Health and Safety regulations and requirements. I. CONSULTANT and its associates and employees involved in projects covered under this Master Agreement covenant that they presently have no interest and that they will not acquire any interest, direct or indirect, during the term of this Agreement which would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of services required under this Agreement. J. CONSULTANT will name the supervisory and staffing levels in the performance of CONSULTANT's services for each Task Order. CONSULTANT shall not replace supervisory or staffing levels without the prior written consent of DISTRICT. In the event a change is required by reason of resignation or similar circumstance, DISTRICT shall not deny consent to a change, but shall have the right to review and approve or disapprove the particular person proposed as a replacement. Any proposed replacement shall have substantially the same experience and qualifications as the person being replaced. K. CONSULTANT shall furnish, at its own expense, all labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation and services necessary for the successful completion of the services to be performed under this Agreement. CONSULTANT shall give its full attention and supervision to the fulfillment of the provisions of this Agreement and each Task Order by its employees and subcontractors and shall be responsible for the timely performance of the Services required by this Agreement. L. CONSULTANT shall furnish DISTRICT with reasonable opportunities from time to time to ascertain whether the Services of CONSULTANT are being performed in accordance with this Agreement. All work done and materials furnished shall be subject to final review and approval by DISTRICT. DISTRICT’s review and approval of the Services shall not, however, relieve CONSULTANT of any of its obligations under this Agreement. M. The DISTRICT participates in the CalPERS retirement system. It is the responsibility of CONSULTANT to ensure that staff working on DISTRICT projects and receiving CalPERS pension benefits do so in accordance with CalPERS rules and regulations. DISTRICT shall incur no cost associated with pension benefits of a person receiving pension benefits from CalPERS. ARTICLE IV. - CONSULTANT'S FEES A. CONSULTANT is employed to render professional services only, and any payments made to it are compensation only for such Services as it may render and recommendations it may make in carrying out the Services. CONSULTANT shall submit to DISTRICT an estimate of costs for the authorized Task Order. Said estimate shall include a breakdown of estimated job classification with corresponding man hours, hourly rate, and estimated fee, together with estimated expenses. Upon approval by DISTRICT, said total estimate shall become a Cost Ceiling, and total compensation for said Services shall not exceed said amount without further authorization by DISTRICT. DISTRICT shall be obligated to pay only such hourly rates and expenses as are actually incurred by CONSULTANT subject to the Cost Ceiling. The rates of compensation in the Task Order are agreed to in anticipation of the orderly and continuous progress of the Project through completion of the Services contained therein. CONSULTANT’S obligation to render services thereunder will extend for the period set forth in the associated schedule and required extensions thereto. If such dates are exceeded through no fault of CONSULTANT, then all rates, measures and amounts of compensation provided in the Task Order shall be subject to equitable, negotiated adjustment, but not otherwise. B. DISTRICT agrees to pay CONSULTANT for and in consideration of the faithful performance of all services and duties set forth in this Master Agreement and subsequent Task Orders and agreed to be performed by CONSULTANT. CONSULTANT agrees to accept payment from DISTRICT as and for full compensation for the faithful performance of all said services and duties as the amount set forth for consulting services for each Task Order. C. The DISTRICT will not approve any additional compensation unless a change in the scope of the Services has occurred due to conditions that the parties could not have reasonably anticipated at the time entering into this Agreement. CONSULTANT shall notify DISTRICT immediately if the scope of services under the lump sum Task Order is changed substantially, as required in Article I, Paragraph D. D. CONSULTANT shall submit to DISTRICT a monthly, itemized invoice for services completed during the preceding month. The invoice should also include the purchase order number and task order number for each Task Order. Payment by DISTRICT to CONSULTANT shall be made within 45 days after receipt and approval by DISTRICT of CONSULTANT's hereinabove described invoice. E. Should the DISTRICT dispute any portion of any bill, the DISTRICT shall pay the undisputed portion within the time frame stated above and, at the same time, advise the CONSULTANT in writing of the disputed portion. The DISTRICT shall promptly notify CONSULTANT of the dispute and request clarification and/or remedial action. After any dispute has been settled, CONSULTANT shall provide a special invoice that accounts for the resolution of the disputed item. F. The costs for professional services and direct expenses shall be in accordance with the rates and amounts set forth in the applicable Task Order. In addition, the DISTRICT reserves the right to request from the CONSULTANT a breakdown of costs associated with the rates for professional services, including but not limited to direct salary, total overhead, and profit. G. CONSULTANT shall be solely responsible for the payment of all federal, state, or local income tax, social security tax, worker's compensation insurance, state disability insurance and any other taxes or insurance which CONSULTANT is responsible for paying as an independent contractor under federal, state or local law. CONSULTANT shall procure and maintain all licenses necessary for the performance of the Services, all at the sole cost of CONSULTANT. All of the above shall not be reimbursable under the Agreement. ARTICLE V. - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS A. Any Services subcontracted hereunder shall be specified by written contract or agreement and shall be subject to each provision of this Agreement. B. Notice to Proceed - CONSULTANT will not begin services on any Task Order until DISTRICT directs it in writing to proceed. C. Submittal of Work Product and Written Notice - All reports and documents which CONSULTANT is required to furnish to DISTRICT (Work Product) and any other writing which CONSULTANT desires to give DISTRICT shall be delivered to DISTRICT or by depositing same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to: General Manager South Tahoe Public Utility District 1275 Meadow Crest Drive South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 Any legally operative documents shall be copied to: Jones & Mayer 6349 Auburn Boulevard Citrus Heights, CA 95621 Any notices or other writing which DISTRICT desires or is required to give or furnish to CONSULTANT shall be delivered to CONSULTANT by delivering in person or by depositing same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to: _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ The effective date of such written notice shall be the date of personal delivery of such notice or the receipt of same in the United States mail. The address to which any notice or other writing may be delivered may be changed upon written notice by such party as above provided. D. Ownership of Documents - All documents prepared by CONSULTANT and required to be furnished to DISTRICT in electronic and hard copy format, shall be the property of DISTRICT after payment to CONSULTANT. All electronic documents shall be provided to the District in an editable format. Any use of Work Product for other projects and/or any use of uncompleted documents without specific written authorization from CONSULTANT will be at DISTRICT's sole risk and without liability or legal exposure to CONSULTANT and DISTRICT shall indemnify and hold harmless CONSULTANT from all claims, damages, losses and expenses, including attorney's fees arising out of or resulting therefrom. E. Audit of CONSULTANT's Records - The books, papers, records, and accounts of CONSULTANT or any other consultants retained by CONSULTANT insofar as they relate to charges for services, or are in any way connected with the work herein contemplated, shall be open at all reasonable times to inspection and audit by the agents and authorized representatives of DISTRICT. Said records shall be retained for a minimum of five (5) years after completion of services on the individual Task Orders. F. Discrimination - During the term of this Agreement, CONSULTANT agrees in accordance with Section 1735 of the Labor Code of the State of California not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap, medical condition, sex, or marital status. CONSULTANT will take affirmative action to the limits prescribed by law to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap, medical condition, sex, or marital status. G. Assignment - Neither party shall assign any interest in this Agreement, nor transfer any interest in the same (whether by assignment or novation), without the prior written consent of the other party; provided, however, that claims for money due or to become due CONSULTANT from DISTRICT under this Agreement may be assigned to a bank, trust company or other financial institution without such approval. Notice of any such assignment or transfer shall be furnished promptly to DISTRICT. H. Attorney’s Fees - If any legal proceeding is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of the Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover actual attorneys' fees and costs, which may be determined by the court in the same action or in a separate action brought for that purpose. The attorneys' fees award shall be made as to fully reimburse for all attorneys', paralegal and experts’ fees, costs and expenses actually incurred in good faith, regardless of the size of the judgment, it being the intention of the parties to fully compensate for all attorneys', paralegal and experts’ fees, costs and expenses paid or incurred in good faith. I. Confidential Information - During and after the term of this Agreement, CONSULTANT shall not, directly or indirectly, use, exploit, disclose or divulge to anyone, except appropriate representatives of DISTRICT, any of CONSULTANT’S engineering Work Product, except as otherwise authorized with DISTRICT’s express consent. J. Authorization - All officers and individuals executing this and other documents on behalf of the respective parties certify and warrant that they have the capacity and have been duly authorized to execute said documents on behalf of the entities indicated. K. Time of the Essence. Time is of the essence in the performance of this Agreement and each Task Order. Any breach of any time deadline or schedule by CONSULTANT is agreed by the parties to be a material breach of this Agreement, providing DISTRICT with termination rights under this Agreement, in addition to its rights to recover damages, regular, consequential or otherwise. The failure on the part of CONSULTANT to perform the Services within such time deadline or schedule when such failure is caused by acts beyond the control of CONSULTANT shall not be considered a breach of this Agreement and CONSULTANT shall be entitled to an extension of such time deadline or schedule accordingly. ARTICLE VI. - CANCELLATION OF AGREEMENT OR SUSPENSION OF WORK A. This Master Agreement and/or subsequent Task Orders may be terminated in whole or in part in writing by either party for any reason, providing that no such termination may be effected unless the other party is given not less than thirty (30) calendar days written notice (delivered by certified mail, return receipt requested) of intent to terminate. B. This Master Agreement and/or subsequent Task Orders may be terminated in whole or in part in writing by DISTRICT for cause, effective immediately upon written notice of such termination to CONSULTANT, based upon the occurrence of any of the following events: 1) Material breach of this Agreement, Task Order or Task by CONSULTANT; 2) Cessation of CONSULTANT to be licensed, as required by law; 3) Failure of CONSULTANT to substantially comply with any applicable federal, state or local law or regulation; 4) Filing by or against CONSULTANT of any petition under any law for the relief of debtors; and, 5) Conviction of CONSULTANT's principal representative or personnel of any crime other than minor traffic offenses. C. In the event the Master Agreement or subsequent Task Order(s) are terminated in whole or in part, CONSULTANT is to be fairly compensated for all approved Services performed under the terminated Task Order as of the termination date, provided that the total amount of compensation paid to CONSULTANT does not exceed the Cost Ceiling set forth in the Task Order, and provided that the CONSULTANT delivers to the District all Work Product due for the Services completed through the termination date. D. Upon receipt of a Termination Notice by CONSULTANT from DISTRICT, an equitable adjustment shall be negotiated to provide payment to CONSULTANT for termination settlement costs reasonably incurred by CONSULTANT relating to obligations and commitments as a result of entering into this Master Agreement and the affected Task Order. E. Upon receipt of a Termination Notice, CONSULTANT shall (1) promptly discontinue all services affected (unless the Notice directs otherwise), and (2) deliver or otherwise make available to DISTRICT, copies of data, design calculations, drawings, specifications, reports, estimates, summaries, and such other information and materials as may have been accumulated by CONSULTANT in performing the services under the affected Task Order. ARTICLE VII. – DISPUTES A. All disputes arising out of or relating to this Agreement or subsequent Task Orders, or the professional services rendered hereunder, shall be determined by arbitration in El Dorado County, California, before a sole arbitrator, in accordance with the laws of the State of California. B. The arbitration shall be administered by JAMS® pursuant to its Comprehensive Arbitration Rules and Procedures. Judgment on the Award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. C. Costs and attorney’s fees in said arbitration shall be borne in accordance with the terms set forth in Article V.H., above. ARTICLE VIII. – SEVERABILITY AND WAIVER A. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid and unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall be valid and binding upon the parties, provided that the remainder of the Agreement can be interpreted to give effect to the intentions of the parties. B. Any waiver at any time by either party hereto of its rights with respect to a breach or default, or any other matter arising in connection with this Agreement, shall not invalidate this Agreement or be deemed to be a waiver with respect to any subsequent breach, default or matter. ARTICLE IX. - ENTIRE AGREEMENT A. This Master Agreement and the subsequent Task Orders contain the entire understanding between the parties with respect to the subject matter herein. This Agreement may not be amended except pursuant to a written instrument signed by all parties. B. This Master Agreement is to be binding on the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto and is not to be assigned by either party without first obtaining the written consent of the other party, subject to the terms of Article V.G. C. The term of this Agreement shall commence upon the date first written above and shall continue in full force and effect for a period no longer than 10 years, unless sooner terminated as provided herein. Any subsequent Task Orders that are scheduled to exceed the aforementioned duration shall require that this Agreement be renegotiated and executed prior to adoption of the Task Order. ARTICLE X. – EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto each herewith subscribe the same in duplicate on the effective date first written above. _____________________________________________ Paul Hughes, General Manager South Tahoe Public Utility District ATTEST: _____________________________________ Melonie Guttry, Clerk of Board XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX By __________________________________________ XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX