FAQs

How can I become a registered vendor with the city?

Visit https://www.wpb.org/Departments/Procurement and download the Vendor Application and W-9 or send an email to procurement@wpb.org and request a Vendor Application Packet. Complete the Vendor Application and W-9 Form and submit to procurement @wpb.org

 

Where can I find current bid opportunities or RFPs?

For a list of current solicitations visit our Solicitations page OR register and log into the City's third party website, DemandStar at: https://network.demandstar.com/for-business. The solicitation and any addenda posted by the City on DemandStar are the only official procurement documents. The City does not post procurement solicitations on other third-party sites and is not responsible for the content posted on any third-party site other than DemandStar.

 

How do I submit a bid or proposal to the city?

Bids and/or proposals must be submitted in hard copy to the City's Procurement Division by the deadline stated in the soliciation. The Procurement Division is located on the fifth floor of City Hall at 401 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Bidders and/or Proposers are responsible for ensuring their bid/proposal is time-stamped by Procurement personnel by the deadline stated in the soliciation document.

 

Is there a website for the city's procurement opportunities?

For a list of current solicitations visit https://www.wpb.org/Departments/Procurement/Solicitations OR register and log into the City's third party website, DemandStar at: https://network.demandstar.com/for-business. The solicitation and any addenda posted by the City on DemandStar are the only official procurement documents. The City does not post procurement solicitations on other third-party sites and is not responsible for the content posted on any third-party site other than DemandStar.

 

When are bids due and how are they submitted (paper or online)?

Bids and/or proposals must be submitted in hard copy to the City's Procurement Division by the deadline stated in the soliciation. The Procurement Division is located on the fifth floor of City Hall at 401 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Bidders and/or Proposers are responsible for ensuring their bid/proposal is time-stamped by Procurement personnel by the deadline stated in the soliciation document.

 

Do I need to attend a pre-bid meeting?

Attendance at pre-bid or pre-proposal meetings is typically not required, rather strongly encouraged.

 

Are there any local preference policies for city contracts?

The City of West Palm Beach Code of Ordinances Sec 66-71(b)(13), Selection of respondent; best value provides "Impact to the local economy in comparison to other respondents; including compliance with Section 66-76 regarding use of local workforce." 

For Section 66-76 visit https://library.municode.com/fl/west_palm_beach/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH66PR_ARTIVPRME_S66-76LOWO

 

What insurance or bonding is required for city contracts?

Each solicitation and/or contract has individually defined insurance or bonding requirments. The insurance and bonding requirements are defined in each solicitation document issued by the City.

 

How can I find out who was awarded a past bid?

Our awarded bids are listed on the Solicitations page. Click on the award and it will open a page that displays details of the project and the company that has been awarded the contract.

Does the city have a procurement contact person or help desk?

The City does not have a dedicated help desk within Procurement. The Procurement Division can be reached through the main telephone number 561.822.2100.

 

Is there a way to be notified of new bids automatically?

Yes, if the vendor is registered on DemandStar or set up as a vendor with the City and is associated with the NIGP Commodity Code that is associated with the soliciation. NIGP Commodity Codes define goods and/or services provided.

 

Does the city have a small business or minority business program?

Yes. The Office of Small Business Programs can be reached at 561.822.2104.

 

Can I schedule a meeting to discuss my products or services with the city?

Requests can be made via email to Procurement@wpb.org.

 

What is the threshold for needing multiple quotes vs. formal bids?

$50,000 for goods and services and $100,000 for construction.

 

How long does it usually take for the city to pay vendors?

You would need to reach out to our Finance Department for this answer. They may be reached at 561.822.1310.

Are bids opened publicly, and can I attend bid openings?

Yes, formal solicitations are opened publicly; the public is welcome to attend.

 

Can I appeal or protest a bid award decision?

Does the city accept electronic signatures on bid documents?

Yes, the City accepts electronic signatures so long as the signatures comply with applicable law.

 

What standard terms and conditions apply to city contracts?

Generally, standard terms and conditions very depending on the type of contract, but all general terms applicable to a solicitation are specifically spelled out in the solicitation documents.

 

Where do I drop off a physical bid if required?

Bids and/or proposals must be submitted in hard copy to the City's Procurement Division by the deadline stated in the soliciation. The Procurement Division is located on the fifth floor of City Hall at 401 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Bidders and/or Proposers are responsible for ensuring their bid/proposal is time-stamped by Procurement personnel by the deadline stated in the soliciation document.