HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSG Forte Payments, Inc. - 2021-05-03 (2) PAYMENT PROCESSING AGREEMENT
This Payment Processing Agreement("Agreement"), including all applicable appendices and addendums hereto,
is entered into as of May 3rd ,20 21(the"Effective Date") by and between CSG Forte Payments,
Inc. ("FORTE" or"Party") a Delaware corporation and Huntington Beach ("AGENCY"or"Party"),
FORTE and its affiliates provide payment processing and related services including but not limited to Automated
Clearing House("ACH ),Credit and Debit Card processing, account verification and customer identification
(collectively and individually,as applicable,the "Services' to AGENCY who provides services to,or otherwise
has a business relationship with, individuals and other entities("Constituents").
1. GENERAL
The Agreement shall consist of these terms and conditions, each of the Appendices attached hereto if applicable,
and all modifications and amendments thereto. Under the terms of the Agreement,AGENCY will be furnished
with the products and services described in the Agreement and attached Appendices, which are selected by
Agency and approved by FORTE. For any terms herein that are specifically applicable to any particular product
or service offered by FORTE,only the terms and conditions that apply to the specific Service(s)requested by
Agency at any given time shall apply.
2. USAGE
2.1 Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, FORTE hereby grants to AGENCY a non-
exclusive and non-transferable license to access and use FORM products and services contracted for and
AGENCY hereby accepts such license and agrees to utilize and access the Services in accordance with the
practices and procedures established by FORTE. AGENCY may use the Services(a) for its own internal
business purposes and operations,and/or(b)as a service provided to its Constituents,unless otherwise notified by
FORTE. No license or right to use,reproduce, translate, rearrange, modify,enhance,display,sell, lease,
sublicense or otherwise distribute,transfer or dispose of any of FORM Proprietary Property,as defined in
Section 3 below, in whole or in part, is granted except as expressly provided by this Agreement. Neither
'AGENCY nor any of its affiliates shall reverse engineer,decompile or disassemble the Proprietary Property.
Additionally,nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to provide AGENCY with a license of any third-party,
proprietary information or property.
2.2 AGENCY shall ensure that its Users comply with all applicable requirements of this Agreement.
AGENCY is responsible for protecting the confidentiality of any and all passwords and credentials provided to
AGENCY by FORTE for the purpose of utilizing the Services or other forms of access to AGENCY's accounts
with FORTE.AGENCY is responsible for the security of its systems,locations and equipment used in
processing transactions under this Agreement and for developing security procedures and training its employees
on the procedures. AGENCY expressly assumes responsibility for the acts or omissions of all Users on its
aecount(s)with FORTE- and for User access to FORTE's aystems either directly or through software.
3. OWNERSHIP
All computer programs,trademarks,service marks,patents, copyrights,wade secrets, know-how,and other
proorietary rights in or related to FORTE's products and services(the"Proprietary Property"), are and will remain
the sole and exclusive property of FURI E,whether or not speclncany recogm=or per=ea under applu;aole
law. FORTE shall own all rights,title and interest, including all intellectual property rights, in and to any
improvements to the existing FORTE products or services and/or any new programs, upgrades,modifications or
enhancements developed by FORTE in connection with rendering any services to AGENCY (or any of its
affiliates),even when refinements and improvements result from AGENCY's request.To the extent, if any,that
ownership in such refinements and improvements does not automatically vest in FORTE by virtue of this
Agreement or otherwise,AGENCY hereby expressly transfers and assigns(and, if applicable, shall cause its
affiliates to transfer and assign)to FORTE all rights,title, and interest which AGENCY or any of its affiliates
may have in and to such refinements and improvements. All reference to any of FORTE's service marks,
18.10.01
Page 1
trademarks, patents- or copyrights, or those of FORTE'S partners or vendors, shall be made in compliance with
the requirements, including periodic updates thereto. as provided at hitp:/haww.forte.net/trademark.
4. CONFIDENTIALITY
The Parties acknowledge that, by virtue of this Agreement, each has been and will continue to be entrusted with
certain Confidential Information (as defined in Appendix A) pertaining to the other's business. including but not
limited to proprietary information developed by. acquired by, or licensed to each Par iv. Each Party agrees that,
except to the extent and in the manner necessary to perform its duties hereunder, it will not disclose to others or
use for its own benefit any Confidential Information of the other Party and it will hold all Proprietap Property as
defined herein confidential in perpetuity.
Additionally, in the course of providing and receiving the Services. each Party acknowledges that it may receive
or have access to information which can be used to identify an individual consumer(including, without
limitation, names, signatures, addresses, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, payment history, and other unique
identifiers)("Personal Information' ). As such, each Party shall (i) keep all personal Infonnation in strict
confidence, with the degree of care necessary to avoid unauthorized access, use or disclosure; (ii) use Personal
Information solely and exclusively far the purposes provided in this Agreement; (iii) implement administrative.
physical and technical safeguards to protect personal Infonnation that are at least as rigorous as accepted
industry practices; (iv) as applicable, have in place a program that complies with applicable legal requirements
regarding Personal Information.
Except with respect to Personal Information, this section will not apply to Confidential Information that (i) was
already available to the public at the time of disclosure, (ii) becomes generally known to the public after
disclosure to the other party, through no fault of the other party. (iii) is disclosed under force of tax\,,
governmental regulation or court order. (iv) is required to be disclosed by a banking partner, an Acquirer or an
applicable Payment Association.
5. TERM AND TERMINATION
5.1 Term, This Agreement shall have an initial term of three (3) years. Thereafter, this Agreement will
automatically renew for additional one (1)year terms unless either Party provides thirty (30)days' prior written
notice of termination to the other party.
5.2 Termination. In the event of a material breach of this Agreement by one Party and f'ailurc to cure within
thirty(30) days of receipt of written notice of the breach, the other Party may terminate immediately by providing
written notice of termination. Additionally. FORTE, may immediately terminate this Agreement without prior
notice in the event that (i) there is a material adverse change to AGENCY or its financial condition: or(ii)
AGENCY experiences excessive chargebacks; or(iii) AGENCY experiences an actual or suspected data security
breach: or(iv) AGENCY violates any applicable Law, Rule or Regulation; or(v) if FORTE is instructed to
terminate by Financial Institution. Acquirer or Payment Association.
6. TRANSACTION PROCESSING
6.1 Accepting Transactions. FORTE shall process Credit Card. Debit Card and ACH Transactions on the
AGENCY's behalf on a 24-11our basis. l7ansactions which are received before the daily designated cut-off time
will be originated for settlement through the corresponding Payment Network. Transactions which are received
after the designated cut-off time will be included in the next business days settlement processing.
6.1.1 y Sale Transactions. if a Transaction is sent to FORTE as a sale of goods or services, it will
automatically be captured for settlement in time for the next designated cut-off time.
6.12 Auth/Capture Transactions. If a Transaction is sent to FORTE for authorization only or for
delayed processing,then it will be the responsibility of AGENCY to submit a corresponding
'`capture'Transaction within 48 hours of the authorization in order to complete the Transaction
process for settlement. Transactions which are not captured within 48 hours of Authorization are
untimely and may be rejected by FORTE.
62 Transaction Format. FORTE is responsible only f'or processing Transactions which are received and
is 10.01
Page 2
approved by FORTE in the proper format, as established by FORTE.
6.2.1 Card Not Present Transactions. For card-based transactions in which the card is not present,
AGENCY must obtain and include as part of the authorization request the 3 or 4 digit Validation
Code and cardholder's billing address information.
6.3 AGENCY Account. In order to provide transaction processing services. FORTE may need to establish
one or more service accounts on AGENCY's behalf or require AGENCY to establish a service account with a
third part\, provider sub-contracting .with FORTE.
6.4 Limited-Acceptance Agency. If appropriately indicated on AGENCY's application attached hereto,
AGENCY may be a Limited-Acceptance Agency, which means that AGENCY has elected to accept only certain
Visa and MasterCard card types (i.e., consumer credit, consumer debit, and commercial cards) and must display
appropriate signage to indicate the same. FORTE and its associated credit card acquirer have no obligation other
than those expressly provided under the Payment Association Operating Regulations and applicable law as they
may relate to limited acceptance. AGENCY, and not FORTE or Acquirer, will be solely responsible for the
implementation of its decision for limited acceptance, including but not limited to policing the card type(s)
accepted at the point of sale.
6.5 Bona Fide Sales. AGENCY shall only complete sales transactions produced as the direct result of bona
fide sales made by AGENCY to cardholders. and is expressly prohibited front processing. factoring, laundering.
offering, and/or presenting sales transactions .which are produced as a result of sales made by any person or
entity other than AGENCY, or for purposes related to financing terrorist activities.
6.6 Setting Limits on Transaction Amount. AGENCI' may set a nlininuun transaction amount to accept a
card that provides access to a credit account, under the following conditions: i) the minimum transaction amount
does not differentiate between card issuers: ii)the minimum transaction amount does not differentiate between
MasterCard. Visa, or any other acceptance brand: and iii)the minimum transaction amount does not exceed ten
dollars (or any higher amount established by the Federal Reserve). AGENCY may set a maximum transaction
amount to accept a card that provides access to a credit account, under the following conditions: AGENCY is a i)
department, agenc\' or instrumentally of Illy U.S. govermneiw II) corporation owned or controlled by the U.S.
government; or iii) agency whose primary business is reflected by one of the following MCCs: 8220, 8244. 8249
—Schools. Trade or Vocational: and the maximum transaction amount does not diflerentiate between
MasterCard, Visa, or any other acceptance brand.
6.7 Modifying Transactions. AGENCY shall regularly and promptly review all Transactions and shall
immediateiv notify FORTE upon discovery of any and all discrepancies between the records of AGENCY
compared with those provided by FORTE or AGENCY's bank, or with respect to any Transaction that
AGENCY believes was made erroneously or without proper authorization. At AGE NCI 's request. FORTE will
make commercially reasonable efforts to reverse, nlodifv, void or delete a Transaction after it has been submitted
for settlement. All requests must be made in writing (electronic mail will be deemed as"in writing' for these
purposes). signed or sent by an individual pre-authorized by AGENCY to make such requests. and delivered to
FORTE. AGENCY agrees that FORTE will not be held responsible for any losses. directly or indirectly, incurred
by AGENCY or other third parties as a result of FOR'rE's failure to accomplish the request before the
Transaction has been processed through the applicable Payment Network.
6.8 Delay or Rejection of Transactions. FORTE may delay or reject any Transaction without prior
notification to AGENCY which is improperly formatted, is untimely, is missing information, which play cause it
to downgrade or if FORTE has reason to believe such Transaction is fraudulent or improperly authorized or for
any reason permitted or required under the Rules or Regulations. FORTE shall have no liability to AGENCY by
reason of the rejection of any such Transaction.
6.9 Returned Items. FORTE shall make available to AGENCY details related to the receipt of any
Transaction that is returned unpaid or Transaction which is charged back and shall credit or charge such returned
item to AGENCY's Settlement Account.
6.10 Chargebacks. AGENCY acknowledges and agrees that it is bound by the Rules and Regulations' of the
Payment Associations with respect to any Chargeback. AGENCY understands that obtaining an authorimtion for
any sale shall not constilute a guarantee of payment, and such sales can be returned or charged back to AGENCI'
like anv other item hereunder. In the event a Transaction is charged back. for any reason, the amount of such
ts.to.oi
Page 3
Transaction will be deducted from AGENCY's designated Settlement Account or anv payment due to AGENCY.
6.11 Excessive Chargebacks. Using limits established by Associations as a standard for review. FORTE
reserves the right to suspend and/or terminate AGENCY's access to the Services should AGENCY's chargeback
ratio exceed allowable limits in any given period. FORTE will make reasonable efforts to provide AGENCY with
notice and a time to cure its excessive chargebacks prior to suspending or terminating AGENCY's access to the
Services. AGENCY acknowledges and expressly authorizes FORTE, in compliance with Payment Association
Rules and Regulations, to provide to the Payment Associations and applicable regulatory bodies, AGENCY's
name and contact information as well as transaction details should AGENCY's chargeback ratio exceed the
allowable limits in any given period.
6.12 Resubmitting Transactions. AGENCY shall not re-submit any:Transaction unless it is returned as (i)
Insufficient funds (R01); or(ii) Uncollected funds(R09)-. or unless a new authorization is obtained from
Constituent.
6.I i Settlement. Settlement of AGENCY's funds for Transactions. less anv Chargebacks or Returns, to
AGENCY's designated Settlement Account will occur within 72 hours of origination excluding weekends and
US federal banking holidays. Settlement of-fransactions will occur via electronic funds transfer over the ACH
Network. Upon receipt of Agency s sales data for card transactions through FORTE's Services. Acquirer will
process AGENCY's sales data to facilitate the funds transfer between the various Payment Associations and
AGENCY. After Acquirer receives credit for such sales data, Acquirer will fund AGENCY, either directly to
the AGENCY-Owned Designated Account or through FORTE to an account designated by FORTE ("FORTE
Designated Account"). at Acquirers sole option, for such card transactions. AGENCY agrees that the deposit of
funds to the FORTE Designated Account shall discharge Acquirer of its settlement obligation to AGENCY, and
that anv dispute regarding the receipt or amount of settlement shall be between FORTE and AGENCY. Acquirer
will debit the FORTE Designated Account for funds owed to Acquirer as a result of the Services provided
hereunder, unless an Agency-owned account is otherwise designated by AGENCY. Further. if a cardholder
disputes it Transaction, if a Transaction is charged back for any reason, or if FORTE or Acquirer reasonably
believe a Transaction is unauthorized or otherwise unacceptable. the amount of such Transaction may be charged
back and debited from AGENCY if settled to an Agency-owned account or debited front the FORTE Designated
Account if settled to that account.
6.14 Provisional and Final Payment. AGENCY, AGENCY's third party senders(if applicable), and/or
AGENCY's agent(s) understand and agree that Entries nnay be transnnitted through the ACH Network, that
payment of an Entry by the RDFI to the Receiver is provisional until receipt by the RDFI of final settlement for
such Entrv, and that if such settlement is not received, then the RDFI will be entitled to it refund front the
Receiver of the amount credited and AGENCY will not be deemed to have paid the Receiver the amount of the
Entry. The rights and obligations of AGENCY concerting the Entry are governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the state in which the processing ODFI is located, unless AGENCY and FORTE
have agreed that the laws of anotherjurisdiction govern their rights and obligations.
6.1 5 Reporting. FORTE will make daily origination and deposit reports available to AGENCY on a 24/7 basis
through the Internet-based FORTE platform.
7. TRANSACTION AUTFIORI7_ATION
7.1 Constituent Authorization. AGENCY shall obtain authorization front Constituent prior to requesting a
Transaction to or from Constituent's account.
7.2 Retention. AGENCY shall retain proof of Constituent's authoriuuion for a period of not less than two (2)
vears for standard Transactions and for it period of five(5)years for health- related Transactions from the
authorization date or revocation of authorization date and shall provide such proof of authorization to FORTE
upon request within five (5) business days of the request.
7.3 Revoked Authorization. AGENCY shall cease initiating Transactions to or from a Constituent's account
immediately upon receipt of any actual or constructive notice of that Constituent's termination or revocation of
authorization. AGENCY may re-initiate Transactions to or from a Constituent's account only upon receiving
new authorization from the Constituent.
t s.10.01
Pige 4
8. AGENCY PROHIBITIONS
AGENCY must not i) require a cardholder to complete a postcard or similar device that includes the cardholder's
account number, card expiration (late, signature, or any other card account data in plain view when mailed, it)
add any tax to Transactions. unless applicable law expressly requires that AGENCY impose a tax (any tax
amount. if allowed, must be included in the Transaction amount and not collected separately), iii) request or use
an account number for any purpose other than as payment for its goods or services, iv) disburse funds in the form
of travelers checks if the sole purpose is to allow the cardholder to make a cash purchase of goods or services
From AGENCY. v) disburse fiords in the form of cash unless AGENCY is dispensing funds in the form of
travelers checks. TravelMoney cards, or foreign currency (in such case, the Transaction amount is limited to the
value of the travelers checks, FravelMoncy cards, or foreign currency, plus any commission or fee charged by
AGENCY), or AGENCY is participating in a cash back service, Vi) submit anv Transaction receipt for a
Transaction that was previously charged back to the Acquirer and subsequently returned to AGENCY,
irrespective of cardholder approval, vii)accept a Visa consumer credit card or commercial Visa product issued
by a U.S. issuer to collect or refinance an existing debt that has been deemed uncollectable by AGENCY, or ix)
submit a"Transaction that represents collection of a dishonored check. AGENCY further agrees that, under no
circumstance, will AGENCY store cardholder data in violation of the Laws or the operating regulations of any
Payment Association including but not limited to the storage of track-2 data. Neither AGENCY nor its agent
shall retain or store magnetic-stripe data subsequent to the authorization of a sales Transaction.
9. AUTHORIZATION
9.1 ACH Authorization. AGENCY authorizes FORTE to electronically debit and credit AGENCY's
designated bank account(s) for any amounts owed to or by AGENCY in accordance With the terms of this
Agreement.
9.2 Third Party Service Provider. If AGENCY uses the Services through or in conjunction with a third
party service provider that is not a party to this Agreement. AGENCY authorizes FORTE to provide Accela
("Partner') with its FORTE merchant account information and credentials. If applicable, AGENCY authorizes
Partner to originate Transactions and receive the corresponding results on its behalf.
10. CONSTITUENT DISPUTES
All disputes between AGENCY and its Constituent (s) relating to any Transaction processed under this
Agreement will be settled by and between AGENCY and Constituent. AGENCY agrees that FORTE bears no
responsibility or involvement in anv such dispute.
11. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS
In performing its duties under this Agreement, each Party agrees to comply with all applicable Rules, Regulations
and laws, including but not limited to all confidentiality and security requirements of the USA Patriot Act (or
similar law, rule or regulation), all Rules of any applicable Payment Associations, all requirenlcnts under the
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (or similar applicable data security law, rule or regulation)
including but not limited to the VISA Cardholder htformation Security Program, the MasterCard Site Data
Protection Program, and anv other program or requirement that may be published and/or mandated by the
Associations. Each Party agrees to cooperate and provide information reasonably requested by the other to
facilitate its compliance with any applicable Law. Rule or Regulation. Additionally. should a Payment
Association or regulatory body impose a fee or fine on AGENCY for any violation of the Rules or Laws by
AGENCY, such fee or fine may be charged to FORTE as a pass-through to AGENCY. If any such fee or fine is
charged to FORTE. AGENCY shall reimburse FORTE for any such fees or fines.
12. PRICING AND PAYMENT
12.1 FORTE will provide the Services in accordance with the fees listed on the Pricing Schedule(s) attached
hereto or any amendments thereto. Pricing which utilizes an Absorbed Fee Model will be billed to the AGENCY
monthiv in arrears and will automatically be debited from AGENCY's designated account via ACH Debit.
M 10.01
Page 5
Pricing which utilizes a Service Fee Model will result in a processing fee being charged to the Constituent in the
forni of a non-refundable service fee which is either(i) added to; or(ii)charged as it separate transaction to the
Constituent at the time of payment.
12.2 Pricing which utilizes a flat service fee model arc calculated based on historical or estimated transactional
amount activity by AGENCY. In the even) that experiential transaction activity varies significantly from the
historical or estimated amounts, FORTE shall have the right to adjust the service fee in accordance to the
experiential transaction activity.
12.j FORTE's pricing is subject to the underlying fees established by the Payment Associations and its service
providers. As such. in the event FORTE experiences an increase in cost for any processing services utilized by
AGENCY during any term of this Agreement, FORTE will pass through the increases with no additional markup
to AGENCY. FORTE will provide AGENCY a minimum of thirty (30) days' notice of any change or adjustment
in lees.
13. LIMITS OF LIABILITY
13.1 Neither Pam shall be liable to the other Party or to any third party for any special, consequential,
incidental or punitive damages of any kind or nature incurred in relation to this Agreement. 'rhe amount of
damages recoverable by either Pam' from the other will not exceed that Parrv's actual. direct damages and will
be limited to the amount of the average monthly fees and charges paid by AGENCY for the Service for the
immediate three (3) monthperiod prior to the event giving rise to the applicable claim. Neither Pam will be
liable for failure to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement if such performance would result in it
being in breach of any Law, Rule or requirement of any governmental authority. The provisions of this section
will survive the termination of this Agreement.
13.2 FORTE shall not be held responsible for errors. acts or failures to act of others. including. and among other
entities, banks, other processors, communications carriers or clearing houses through which Transactions may be
originated or through which FORTE may receive or transmit information. and no such entity shall be deemed an
agent of FORTE.
la. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
14.1 FORTE's Representations and Warranties. FORTE makes no representations or warranties concerning
its services except as may be specifically authorized, in writing, or set out herein.
14.1.1 FORTE hereby warrants that its software solutions and services will perform in accordance with
their published specifications in all material respects.
14.1.2 FORTE further warrants that in performing its obligations hereunder, it shall exercise due care
and reasonable efforts to ensure that information originated by AGENCY is transmitted accurately.
14.2 AGENCI 's Representations and Warranties. AGENCY represents and warrants to FORTE that:
14.2.1 If applicable, with respect to all Transactions originated by FORTE on behalf of AGENCY that
(i) each Transaction in all respects has been properly authorized by Receiver: (ii)each Transaction is for
an amount agreed to by the Receiver and; (iii) AGENCY shall provide proof of authorization in
compliance with applicable Rules for any Transaction to FORTE upon request within five (5) Business
Banking Days.
14.2.2 AGENCY agrees to adhere to the warranties within the applicable Rules for each Transaction
FORTE processes on AGE'NCY's behalf.
14.j Mutual Representations and Warranties. Each Party represents and warrants to the other that:
14.3.1 The execution of this Agreement does not violate arty applicable international, federal. state, or
local law. Pavment Network rule or contract to which such Party is subject.
143.2 There are no actions. suits or proceedings existing or pending against or affecting it before any
judicial or regulatory authority which would have a material adverse effect on its ability to perform its
obligations hereunder.
14J.3 When executed and delivered, this Agreement will constitute it legal, valid. and binding obligation,
enforceable in accordance with its terms.
18,10.01
Page 6
15. FORTE. SERVICE. POLICY.
FORTE makes no representations or warranties concerning its services except as may be specifically authorized.
in writing, or set out herein. AGENCY acknowledges and understands that FORTE Lines not warrant that the
Services will be uninterrupted or error free and that FORTI may occasional]\, experience delays or outages due
to disruptions that are not within FORTE`s control. Any such interruption shall not be considered a breach of the
Agreement by FORTE. FORTE shall use its best efforts to remedy anv such interruption in service as quickly as
possible.
16. FORCE MA.IEURE
Neither Pariv shall be liable for. or be considered in breach of or default under the Agreement on account of am
delay or failure to perform its obligations hereunder as a result of any causes or conditions that are beyond such
Partv's reasonable control and that such Par, is unable to overcome through the exercise of cnnmmercial],
reasonable diligence. If any force majeure event occurs. the affected Party shall give prompt written notice to the
other Party and shall use all cornmercial]y reasonable efforts to minimize the impact of the event.
17. ASSIGNMENT
The rights granted under this Agreement shall not be assigned b, either Party without the prior written consent of
the other Partv, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
18. CHOICE OF LAW
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of
California. Merchant hereby agrees that claims applicable to American Express may be resolved through
arbitration as further described in the American Express Merchant Operating Guide. see Appendix D. Section 4
herein.
19. AMENDMENT
Fxcept as otherwise provided for herein. the terns and conditions of this Agreement shall not be modified or
amended except in writing, signed b, the parties hereto and specifically referring to this Agreement.
20. PUBLICITY
Neither Pam shall use the other Parw's nanne. logo or service marks in conjunction with a press release or
advertisement without first obtaining written approval.
21. NOTICE
Any notice required to be given by either Partv hereunder. shall be in writing and delivered personally to the
other designated Party, or sent by any connmercially reasonable means of receiptcd delivery, addressed, to that
Part, at the address most reccntfy provided in writing. Either Pam may change the address to which notice is to
be sent by written notice to the other tinder any provision of this paragraph.
Notices to FORTE:
CSG Forte Pavments. Inc. Notices to AGENCY:
500 W. Bethanv Drive City of Huntington Beach
Suite 4200 Finance Department
Allen. TX 75013 P.O. Box 190
Attn: General Counsel Huntington Beach, CA
Attn: Chief Financial Officer
22. HEADINGS
The headings contained in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the meaning
of any provision of this Agreement.
18.10.01
Page 7
23. SEVERABILITY
Should any term,clause or provision herein be found invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or operation of any other term,clause or provision and
such invalid term, clause or provision shall be construed to most closely reflect the original intent of the patties.
24. ENTIRE AGREEMENT;WAIVER; COUNTERPARTS
This Agreement constitute the entire understanding of the Parties, and revoke and supersede al; prior agreements
between the Parties and are intended as a final expression of their agreement. Either Party's waiver of any breach
of any provision of this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any subsequent breach of same or other
provision. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts,each of which shall be deemed an
original and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by their respective
organizations,have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth below.
FORTE: 1 AGENCY:
By. By: "Lx- -15AL4;rAn1
Name: Jeff Ku Nam �_
Title: President Title:
APPROVED AS TO FORM
ey:
! CHAEL E.GATES
CITY ATTORNEY
CRY OF HUNTiNGTOi+BEACH
COUNTERPART
191001
Pw+
23. SEVERABILITY
Should any term, clause or provision herein be found invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or operation of any other term,clause or provision and
such invalid term,clause or provision shall be construed to most closely reflect the original intent of the parties.
24. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; WAIVER; COUNTERPARTS
This Agreement constitute the entire understanding of the Parties,and revoke and supersede all prior agreements
between the Parties and are intended as a final expression of their agreement. Either Parry's waiver of any breach
of any provision of this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any subsequent breach of same or other
provision. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts,each of which shall be deemed an
original and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by their respective
organizations, have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth below.
FORTE: AGENCY:
By: By: ,V e a .r, t owe,
Name: Name
Title: Title: r l,a,F 6 ,4�r,.w oK�GC2
APPROVED AS TO FORM
By:
ICHAEL E. GATES
CrTY ATTORNEY
CRY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
RK01Ve and Mc Q�
"`r14r
C14y Clerk
COUNTERPART
ISJouI
Page x
APPENDIX A
DEFINITIONS
ACH Netwrork—Automated Clearing House its internal administrative, billing and accounting
Network is a batch processing, store-and- systems. customer and vendor lists and
forward system that accunmlatcs and distributes infomtation, employee personnel information and
ACI I transactions that are received from ODFI policies and procedures, information regarding the
(defined below) and are forwarded to the diSCIQ51ng Party's products and services that is not
specified RDFI (defined below) according to the generally available to the public.
specific schedules established by the
participants. Credit Entry (or "Entry)—An ACH/FFT
Transaction that is intended to deposit funds into
Acquirer—A sponsoring financial institution or a Receiver's (defined below)account which has
payment processor that enters into an agreement been withdrawn front Merchant's Settlement
which enables merchants or their Agent(s) to Account (defined below).
submit Transactions to it payment network.
Debit Entry (or "Entry")— An ACIi/EFT
Affiliate—A business entity effectively Transaction that is intended to withdraw funds
controlling or controlled by another or from it Receiver's account for deposit into
associated with others under common ownership Merchant's Settlement Account (defined below).
or control.
Laws—All international, national. regional and
Agent Any director, officer, employee, local regulations or laws which are applicable to
represcntative. affiliate, third-pimy vendor or the services provided herein.
any other person acting on behalf of the
Merchant with the actual, implied or apparent NACHA —National Automated Clearing House
authorit_V of Merchant. Association responsible for establishing.
revising and enforcing the Operating Rules for
Business Banking Day— Monday through the US ACH Network.
Friday excluding banking holidays.
ODFI —Originating Depository Financial
Chargeback—A Transaction that is rejected by Institution is the financial institution that
the owner of the account debited or charged receives AC I Transactions from Merchant
because it dispute exists between the Originator through FORTH and then forwards these
of the Transaction (typically a Merchant) and the Transactions (defined below) to the ACH
account owvner. Network.
Confidential Information - Confidential Originator— A �Merchant who has contracted
Information may include infortation regarding all with FORTE to initiate ACH entries, on their
of the computer sollwware and technologies, behalf, to the ACH Network.
systems, structures. architectures, processes,
formulae, compositions, improvements, devices. Payment Association —Any entity governing a
know-how, inventions. discoveries, concepts, payment network, including but not limited to
ideas,designs. methods, and information and VISA. M/C, Discover. American Express.
databases developed, acquired,owned, produced NACHA. CPA.
or practiced at any time by a Pam'or any affiliate
thereof, including software programs and PCI-DSS— System security measures
documentation licensed by third parties to the established by the various credit card companies,
disclosing Party, any business or financial known as the Payment Card Indusin, Data
information directly or indirectly related to the Security Standards.
disclosing Party's compani(s)or investments or
i s.1 o.ot
Paec 9
RDFI — Receiving Depository Financial Settlement Account— An account established
Institution is the financial illStitution that and maintained by Merchant Nvith a financial
receives the ACFI Transactions from the ODFI institution through which the following may
through the ACH Network and posts these occur; (a) deposit of funds for Debit Entries, (b)
Transactions to the accounts of Receivers the extractions of funds for Credit Entries.
(defined below). reserve funds or fee obligations unless otherwise
agreed to by the parties.
Receiver—An entity or individual consumer that
has all established account with a card issuer or Settlement Entry—A Debit or Credit Entry to
financial institution upon which a Transaction is Merchant's Settlement Account which
or may be acted upon. corresponds to the net amount owed Merchant
by FORTE at the end of each Business Banking
Reserve—A specific amount of money that is Day.
held in your Merchant account to be used by
FORTE to offset amounts owed to FORTE for Transactions—Any transfer of data or
Services provided, such as returned items, information to FORTE in a format pre-approved
chamebacks. fees/fines, billing or other by FORTE, including but not limited to
Merchant obligations to PORTS that FORTE is payment, verification and authentication items.
unable to collect from lvIerc:hant.
Users - All individuals who access a FORTE
Returned Entries— Any Transaction that is not website or utilize any portion of the FORTE
able to be completed successfulk,and is Services on behalf of Merchant directly or
returned/rcjccied back to the Originator. through software that accesses the FORTE
systems through Merchant's systems. by using
Rules—The operational rules, policies and Merchant's access credentials or any other
procedures established by each applicable access reasonably presumed to be on behalf of
Payment Association to govern all transactions Merchant.
and parties that participate in the associated
payment network.
i s.10.01
Page 10
APPENDIX 13
ACCOUN'I' VERIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION SERVICES
1. Representation by Agency. Each request for data through the verification and authentication services
shall constitute a representation, warranty and certification by Agency that the data(i) shall be used and
disclosed only in accordance with the teens of the Agreement, and in accordance with any applicable
Rules or Laws; and (ii) shall be used solely for the intended use as stated by Agency on the application
and that use is in compliance with the permissible uses under the Fair Credit Reporting Act ("FCRA")as
provided in the FCRA Requirements Addendum located at hitp://w wv.forte.net/fair-credit-reporting-act;
(iii) Agency will follow proper procedures for adverse action notification to its Constituents, as provided
by the FCRA Requirements Addendum: and (iv) Agency acknowledges it has implemented security
measures to prohibit the unauthorized access to the information provided.
2. Use of Services.
2.1 AGENCY SHALL USE THE VERIFICATION SERVICES ONLY IN CONNECTION
WITH PAYMENTS PRESENTED TO AGENCY BY ITS CONSTITUENTS IN EXCHANGE
FOR GOODS OR SERVICES. AGENCY SHALL. NOT RESELL THE VERIFICATION
DATA OR SERVICES TO ANY THIRD PARTIES.
22 Agency understands and agrees that it cannot decline services to a consumer or customer after
receiving an approval result from FORTE on a verification inquiry unless Agency is declining
based on other grounds and/or information. Further, if Agency does decline services to a FORTE
approved consumer or customer based on alternate information. Agency shall not provide
FORTE's contact information as recourse for the consumer to pursue a dispute of the result under
FCRA Adverse Action requirements.
2.3 Agency shall provide to FORTE, as part of a verification inquiry, the accurate amount for
each transaction Agency wants to verifv.
3. Retention of Data. Agency acknowledges and agrees that it shall not retain, store, compile or
aggregate the results of verification or authentication inquiries received from FORTE except as required
by applicable law or to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
18.10.01
Page I I
APPENDIX C
ACCOUNT UPDATER SERVICES
I. Description of Services. Participating Visa/Master-Card Issuers submit their account changes to the
Account Updater Database. On a monthly basis, FORTE will compare all of AGENCY's recurring
tokenized transactions against the Account Updater Database. FORTE- will then update the
tokenized card information on file with updated account information.
2. Agency Requirements for Account Updater Participation.
a. AGENCY must be properly established and registered in the United States.
b. AGENCY must not have been disqualified from participating in the Visa, MasterCard,
American Express, or Discover programs.
c. AGENCY must be in compliance with all Card Association Operating Regulations.
d. AGENCY must submit inquiries only for those accounts with which the merchant has an
ongoing customer relationship and customer's authority to submit such payments.
e. AGENCY may not request authorization on accounts that have returned "Contact
Cardholder' or"Closed."
f. AGENCY must not submit inquiries on behalf of any other entity.
L. AGENCY assumes all risk associated with the use of the Account Updater Service.
FORTE shall have no liabilitv whatsoever to AGENCY for any liability associated with the
Account Updater Service, including but not limited to the accuracy or completeness of the
information provided via the Account Updater Service.
18.10.01
Page 12
APPENDIX 1)
AMERICAN EXPRESS CARD ACCEPTANCE
I. Merchant hereby acknowledges and agrees that for purposes of acceptance of American Express, the
American Express Merchant Operating Guide and any amendments thereto (the "Operating Guide") is
hereby incorporated by reference into this Agreement and can be found at
www.americanexpress.cons/merchantopguide.
All capitalized terns found in this section shall have the attributed meaning from the Operating Guide.
2. Merchant hereby acknowledges and agrees that it is not it party to any agreement between FORTE
and American Express.
3. Merchant hereby authorizes FORTE and/or Acquirer to submit American Express transactions to, and
receive settlement front. American Express on behalf of Merchant. Merchant must accept the American
Express card as payment for goods and services (other than those goods and services prohibited under the
Operating Guide) sold, or(if applicable) for charitable contributions made. at all of its establishments, except
as express]\, permitted by applicable Law. Merchant is jointly and severally liable for the obligations of
Merchant's establishments under the Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, "cardholder' as used in this
Agreement shall include Cardmembers as defined in the Operating Guide.
4. Merchant hereby acknowledges and agrees that(i) FORTE or Acquirer may disclose American
Express Transaction Data (which for purposes of this section shall have the same definition as-Transaction
Data" in the Operating Guide), Merchant Data (as defined below). and other information about Merchant to
American Express, (ii) American Express may use such information to perform its responsibilities in
connection with the American Express Program, promote the American Express Network, perform analytics
and create reports, and for any other lawful business purpose. including marketing purposes, and (iii)
American Express may use the information obtained in this application at the time of setup to screen and/or
monitor Merchant in connection with American Express Card (the "Card") marketing and administrative
purposes. If Merchant has provided a %viceless phone number in connection with this Agreement, Merchant
hereby agrees that it may be contacted at that number and the communications sent may include autodialed
text messages or automated prerecorded calls. If Merchant has provided a fax number, Merchant hereby
agrees that it may be sent fax communications. To opt out of American Express-related marketing
communications, Merchant may contact FORTE customer service as described in this Agreement. For
purposes of this section. "Merchant Data" means names, postal and email addresses. tax ID numbers, names
and social security numbers of the authorized signer of Merchant and similar identifying information about
Merchant. For clarification. Merchant Data does not include American Express Transaction Data.
5. Merchant will adhere to the following website information display guidelines in the event Merchant
has a website and/or operates an e-commerce business. Merchant's websitc must display the following:
• An accurate description or the goods/services offered, including the currency type for the Transaction
(e.g., U.S. Dollars). Note: Transaction currency must be in U.S. Dollars.
• Merchant's physical address in the U.S.
• An email address or telephone number for customer service disputes.
• Return/refund policy.
• A description of Merchant's delivery policy (e.g., no overnight delivery).
• A description of Merchant's security practices (e.g.. information highlighting security practices
Merchant uses to secure Transactions on its systems. including Transactions conducted on the Internet).
• A statement of known export restrictions. tariffs, and any other regulations.
18.10.01
Page 13
• A privacy statement regarding the type of personal information collected and how the information is
used. Additional) , Merchant must provide to customers the option to decline being included in
marketing campaigns or having their personal information included on lists sold to third parties.
6. Merchant hereby agrees that, in the event that Merchant becomes a High Charge Volume Merchant (as
defined below). Merchant will be converted from the American Express Program to a direct American
Express Card acceptance relationship with American Express, and upon such conversion, (i) Merchant will
be bound by American Express' then-current card acceptance agreement, and (ii) American Express will set
pricing and other fees payable by Merchant for American Express Card acceptance. "High Charge Volume
Merchant" for purposes of this section means an American Express Program Merchant with either(i) greater
than $1,000,000 in American Express charge volume in a rolling twelve (12) month period or(ii) greater
than $1W 000 in American Express charge volume in any three (3) consecutive months. For clarification, if
Merchant has multiple establishments, the American Express charge volume from all establishments shall be
summed together when determining whether Merchant has exceeded the thresholds above.
7. Except as expressly permitted by applicable Law, Merchant must not: (a) indicate or imply that
Merchant prefers, directly or indirectly, any Other Payment Products over the Card, (b)try to dissuade
Cardntentbers front using the Card, (c) criticize or mischaracterize the Card or any of American Express'
services or programs, (d) try to persuade or prompt Cardmembers to use any Other Payment Products or any
other method of payment (e.g.. payment by check), (e) impose any restrictions, conditions, disadvantages,
or fees when the Card is accepted that are not imposed equally on all other payment products, except for
electronic funds transfer, cash or check. (n suggest or require Cardmembers to waive their right to dispute
any Transaction. (g) engage in activities that harm American Express' business or the American Express
Brand (or both), (h) promote any Other Payment Products (except, if applicable. Merchant's own private
label card that it issues for use solely at its Establishments) more actively than Merchant promotes the Card,
or(i) convert the currency of the original sale Transaction to another currency when requesting
Authorization or submitting Transactions (or both).
8. Merchant may offer discounts or in-kind incentives front its regular prices for payments in cash,
ACH funds transfer, check, debit card, or credit/charge card, provided that (to the extent required by
applicable Law): (i) Merchant clearly and conspicuously discloses the terms of the discount ar in-kind
incentive to its customers, (ii) the discount or in-kind incentive is offered to all of Merchant's prospective
customers, zinc] (iii)the discount or in-kind incentive does not differentiate on the basis of the Issuer or.
except as expressly permitted by applicable state statute, payment card network (e.g., Visa, MasterCard.
Discover. JCB, American Express). The offering of discounts or in-kind incentives in compliance with the
terms of this paragraph will not constihrte a violation of the provisions set forth Section 3.2 of the Operating
Guide.
9. Whenever payment methods are communicated to customers. or when customers ask what
payments are accepted. Merchant must indicate its acceptance of the Card and display American Express'
Marks (including any Card application forms provided to Merchant) as prominently and in the saute manner
as anv Other Ilavment Products. Merchant nnlst not use American Express' Marks in any way that injures or
diminishes the goodwill associated with the American Express Mark, nor in any way(without American
Express' prior written consent) indicate that American Express endorses Merchant's goods or services.
Merchant shall use the American Express brand and marks in accordance with the requirements set forth in
the Operating Guide and shall remove the American Express brand and marks from Merchant's website and
wherever else they are displayed upon termination Merchant's acceptance of American Express cards.
10. Anv and all Cardmember Information is confidential and the sole property of the Issuer, American
I R.10.01
Page 14
Express or its Affiliates. Except as otherwise specified, Merchant must not disclose Cardntember
Information, nor use nor store it, other than to facilitate Transactions in accordance with this Agreement.
For more information, refer to the Operating Guidc. Section 42. "Completing it Transaction at the Point of
Sale" and Chapter 8. "Protecting Cardmcmber Information'.
11. Merchant shall not assign to any third party any American Express-related payments due to it Under
this Agreement, and all indebtedness arising from American Express Charges (as defined below) will be for
bona fide sales of goods and services (or both) at its establishments (as defined below) and free of liens,
claims, and encumbrances other than ordinary sales taxes. provided, however, that Merchant may sell and
assign future American Express transaction receivables to FORTE, its affiliated entities and/or any other
cash advance funding source that partners with FORTE or its affiliated entities, without consent of
American Express.
11 Merchant hereby agrees that American Express shall have third party beneficiary rights. but not
obligations, to enforce this Agreement as against Merchant to the extent applicable to American Express
processing. Merchant understands and agrees that it shall have no third party beneficiary rights under any
agreement between FORTE and American Express and/or Acquirer. Merchant shall maintain refund policies
for purchases on the American Express card that are at least as favorable as its refund policy for purchases on
any other payment product. Merchant will disclose any such refund policy to Cardmembers at the time of'
purchase and in compliance with the Operating Guide and all applicable Laws. Merchant's termination of
American Express Card acceptance shall have no direct or indirect effect on Merchant's rights to accept
other card brands. To terminate American Express acceptance. Merchant may contact FORTE customer
service as described in this Agreement.
13. Without limiting any other rights provided herein, FORTE and/or Acquirer shall have the right to
immediately terminate Merchant's acceptance of American Express cards upon request of American
Express. Merchant may not bill or collect from any Cardmcmber for any purchase or payment on the Card
unless a chargeback has been exercised. Merchant has fully paid for such charge, and it otherwise has the
right to do so. Merchant will comply with all procedural requirements relating to chargebacks, as provided
in the Operating Guide, Chapter I I.
14. American Express Liability. SPONSORED NIFRCHANT ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES
THAT IN NO EVENT Sl IALL AMERICAN EXPRESS. ITS AFFFILIATES. AGENTS. SUCCESSORS.
OR ASSIGNS BE- LIABLE TO SPONSORED MERCHANT FOR ANN' DAMAGES. LOSSES, OR
COSTS INCURRED, INCLUDING INCIDENTAL. INDIRECT, SPECULATIVE, CONSEQUENTIAL,
SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OF ANN' KIND (WI-IETI-IER 13ASED ON
CONTRACT. TORT. INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY. FRAUD. OR OTHERWISE,
OR STATUTES, REGULATIONS. OR ANY O"fI-IER THEORY), ARISING OUT OF OR IN
CONNECTION WITH THE AGREEMENT.
13.10.01
Page I>
forte
PRICING FEE SCHEDULE
City of Hunting ton Beach, CA
Fonc Payment Systems is proud to provide a robust processing platform and flexible pricing strategics:
• Scn ice Fvc \lmlcl—in a service Icc model approach, the citizen pity,a sen-ice fee for processing
their transaction. Your office absorbs no cost.
• Abv,rbed Modtl -credit card/debit card Merchant Sen-ices, Electronic Check Services and the
Secure Gatcwm are absorbed be hour office.
Srni(c ((lomcnicncc) Fcc 11riciog Opt it at:
MasterCard, Visit, Discover and American Express cards
750/4 of the payment amount with a minimum fee of$1,95 based upon Volumc-
Electronic check—online WEB payments
Includes Forte Verification for known accounts.
eCheck Transaction Tiers Fees Frequency
$0.00 to$50.000.00 S 1.75 w/Verification Pcr Transaction
550,000.01 to 575,000.00 53.00 w/Verification Pcr Trnnsaetion
575,000.01 to S I00,000.00 S6.00 w/Verification Pcr Transaction
$100,000.01 to S150A00.00 510.00 w/Verifirntion Per'Tmnsacdon
$150,000.01 -+ S250,000.0(1 SIS.170w/Verification Per Transaction
Optir.nal - Absurbcd Pricin. Optimu
Emerging Market and Public-Sector Rate Structure
Processing Costs: Fees Frequency
Visa, MasterCard, Discover Pass"Ihm pricing + Per Transit
50.15+ .156 nS
American Express 'Pass'lltm pricing+ Pcr"Transaction
50.12
Account Updater (Optional) $0.35 Per Transaction
Chargeback Fcc S5.(N) Per Chargeback
Batch Fee 50.00 No Charge -Wwvcd
Gatewac Fee $0.00 No Charge - Included
ACI-1 Fee-debits/credits $0.50 with Forte Verifv Pcr Transaction
ACI-i Return Fee $2,00 Per Return
Monthly Fee 55.00 Each Month per merchant account
tiatew']%' I111,V Pncim" Upllan.
Fee Description Fee Frequency
Forte G:ue :n- Fee 50.I l Per Transaction
hr
Monthiv Gatewav Fee — S24.9ih Each Month
Per MID
-Pass 111111 pricing incluCles the direct interchange dues,assessments and all other fees that are charged
directly from the associations. Forte Payment Systems believes in transparent pricing, nhenning that we utilize
a Pass-'I/jm P/rrt pricing model. Interchange pass tint pricing is a lonn of credit card processing that allows
the actual cost of the processing (-interchange fees& assessments) to be passed directly through to pour
of ice -Ilse advantage of dais pricing strategy is that it is transparent and, in most instances,provides the
lowest processing costs.
Forte's fees include: 'Tonal volume processed multiplied by bets
Local "" of transactions processed by per item fee
F(IL111)n1Cnt and Senitr pricing:
'I he following table reflects our Fquipment and?ervice (.Hferings
Standard Product and Optional Description Fees and Cost of
Service Pricing Equipment
Veri Fone Vx520 ENIV Temtinal 5299.00 per reader plus
shipping
i
VeriPooc Vv20 Flybrid Cable Used for I lybrid Load Temtinals $2495
Requirement
On-line Reporting Tools All Channels(IN 1'.IVR,pC1ti) Unlinmed Users S0.(M)
Set-Up Pee - -_— Confgntrui( n, Implementation,Training WAM-I)
Select pricing option desired: Absoncud Prit'in.- Settiicr Pea Pricing Geiwwa% O dv Pricing;
*Required Merchant Signo:tture:
Date 71102,/