1.0 - Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinet _ Countertops (IFB Document) 03-27-2024.doc

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) No. B23007, Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets and Countertops

HomeFront (A Public Housing Authority, formerly Housing Authority of Billings)

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

No. B23007 Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets and Countertops

Table of Contents [Table No. 1]

INTRODUCTION

HomeFront (hereinafter also “the Agency”) is a public entity that was formed in 1973 to provide federally subsidized housing and housing assistance to low-income families, within the City of Billings, MT. HomeFront is headed by a CEO/Executive Director and is governed by a 7-person board of commissioners and is subject to the requirements of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations (hereinafter, “CFR”) and HomeFront’s procurement policy. Though brought into existence by a referendum of the City of Billings, it is a separate entity from the City.

Currently, HomeFront owns and/or manages: (a) 11 developments totaling 274 units of HUD Public Housing; (b) 719 housing choice vouchers. HomeFront currently has approximately 35 employees.

In keeping with its mandate to provide efficient and effective services, HomeFront is now soliciting bids from qualified, licensed, and insured entities to provide the above noted services to HomeFront. All bids submitted in response to this solicitation must conform to all the requirements and specifications outlined within this document and any designated attachments in its entirety.

IFB INFORMATION AT A GLANCE

[Table No. 2]

AGENCY CONTACT PERSON

(NOTE: Unless otherwise specified, any reference herein to “Contracting Officer” or “(CO)” shall be a reference to Mr. Starr.)

Brian Starr, Director of Procurement & Construction

Telephone: (406)237-1902

E-mail: brians@homefrontmt.org

TDD/TTY: 711

2. Click on the “Login” button in the upper right side.

3. Follow the listed directions to register.

4. 4. If you have any problems in accessing or registering on the www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront, please call customer support at (800) 835-4603.

2415 1st Avenue North Billings, MT 59101

2. As instructed within Section 3.0 of the IFB document, submit 1 copy of your “hard copy” bid to the Agency Administrative Office.

2415 1st Avenue North, Billings, MT 59101. The sealed “hard copy” bid documentation must be received in-hand and time-stamped by HomeFront by no later than 3:00 PM MT on this date).

1.0 THE AGENCY’S RESERVATION OF RIGHTS. The Agency reserves the right to:

1.1 Right to Reject, Waive, or Terminate the IFB. Reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in the IFB process, or to terminate the IFB process at any time, if deemed by the Agency to be in its best interests.

1.2 Right to Not Award. Not to award a contract pursuant to this IFB.

1.3 Right to Terminate. Terminate a contract awarded pursuant to this IFB, at any time for its convenience upon 10 days written notice to the successful bidder(s).

1.4 Right to Determine Time and Location. Determine the days, hours, and locations that the successful bidder(s) shall provide the services called for in this IFB.

1.5 Right to Retain Bids. Retain all bids submitted and not permit withdrawal for a period of 60 days subsequent to the deadline for receiving bids without the written consent of the Agency Executive Director (ED).

1.6 Right to Reject any Bid. Reject and not consider any bid that does not meet the requirements of this IFB, including but not necessarily limited to incomplete bids and/or bids offering alternate or non-requested services.

1.7 No Obligation to Compensate. Have no obligation to compensate any bidder for any costs incurred in responding to this IFB.

1.8 Right to Prohibit. At any time during the IFB or contract process to prohibit any further participation by a bidder or reject any bid submitted that does not conform to any of the requirements detailed herein. By accessing the BidNet Direct website at www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront and by downloading this document, each prospective bidder is thereby agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions listed within this document and within the BidNet Direct website, and further agrees that he/she will inform the CO in writing within 5 days of the discovery of any item listed herein or of any item that is issued thereafter by the Agency that he/she feels needs to be addressed. Failure to abide by this timeframe shall relieve the Agency, but not the prospective bidder, of any responsibility pertaining to such issue.

1.9 Right to Reject – Obtaining Competitive Solicitation Documents. www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront and at Schutz Foss Architects, 3030 4th Avenue North, Billings, MT.

2.0 SCOPE OF WORK/TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS. HomeFront is seeking bids from qualified, licensed, and insured entities to provide the following detailed services:

2.1 Lot #1 General Description of Services. As further described with Attachments H and H-1, each attached hereto:

2.1.1 General Description of the Work. The work involves removing existing kitchen and bathroom cabinets, sinks and faucets and installing new of the same at the South Park Apartments’ 36 units (CF 22-06-02), in Billings, MT.

2.1.2 Location of the Work.

“South Park Apartments”

1. 1007 South 29th Street, Billings, MT 59101 (6 apartments)

2. 1015 South 29th Street, Billings, MT 59101 (6 apartments)

3. 229 South 30th Street, Billings, MT 59101 (2 apartments)

4. 3007 9th Ave. South, Billings, MT 59101 (10 apartments)

5. 410 South 30th Street, Billings, MT 59101 (6 apartments)

6. 925 South 31st Street, Billings, MT 59101 (6 apartments)

2.2 Lot #2 General Description of Services. As further described with Attachments H and - H-1, each attached hereto:

2.2.1 General Description of the Work. The work involves removing existing kitchen and bathroom cabinets, sinks and faucets and installing new of the same at the Eagles Nest Apartments’ 36 units (CF 23-03-01) in Billings, MT.

2.2.2 Location of the Work.

“Eagles Nest Apartments”

1. 1472 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

2. 1474 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

3. 1484 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

4. 1486 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

5. 1526 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

6. 1528 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

7. 1530 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

8. 1532 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

9. 1536 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

10. 1538 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

11. 1540 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

12. 1542 WESTCHESTER SQ. W., Billings, MT 59105

13. 220 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

14. 222 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

15. 224 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

16. 226 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

17. 268 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

18. 270 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

19. 272 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

20. 274 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

21. 314 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

22. 316 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

23. 318 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

24. 320 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

25. 322 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

26. 324 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

27. 326 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

28. 328 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

29. 332 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

30. 334 WESTCHESTER SQ. S. Billings, MT 59105

31. 336 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

32. 338 WESTCHESTER SQ. S., Billings, MT 59105

33. 362 ARISTOCRAT DR., Billings, MT 59105

34. 364 ARISTOCRAT DR., Billings, MT 59105

35. 366 ARISTOCRAT DR., Billings, MT 59105

36. 368 ARISTOCRAT DR., Billings, MT 59105

2.3 Lot #3 General Description of Services. As further described with Attachments H and - H-1, each attached hereto:

2.3.1 General Description of the Work. The work involves removing existing kitchen and bathroom cabinets, sinks and faucets and installing new of the same at the St. Johns Apartments’ 20 units (23-04-01) in Billings, MT.

2.3.2 Location of the Work.

“St. Johns Apartments”

1. 1024 ST.JOHNS Apt. 1, Billings, MT 59102

2. 1024 ST.JOHNS Apt. 2, , Billings, MT 59102

3. 1024 ST.JOHNS Apt. 3, Billings, MT 59102

4. 1024 ST.JOHNS Apt. 4, Billings, MT 59102

5. 1026 ST.JOHNS Apt. 1, Billings, MT 59102

6. 1026 ST.JOHNS Apt. 2, Billings, MT 59102

7. 1026 ST.JOHNS Apt. 3, Billings, MT 59102

8. 1026 ST.JOHNS Apt. 4, Billings, MT 59102

9. 1028 ST.JOHNS Apt. 1, Billings, MT 59102

10. 1028 ST.JOHNS Apt. 2, Billings, MT 59102

11. 1028 ST.JOHNS Apt. 3, Billings, MT 59102

12. 1028 ST.JOHNS Apt. 4, Billings, MT 59102

13. 1029 ST.JOHNS Apt. 1, Billings, MT 59102

14. 1029 ST.JOHNS Apt. 2, Billings, MT 59102

15. 1029 ST.JOHNS Apt. 3, Billings, MT 59102

16. 1029 ST.JOHNS Apt. 4, Billings, MT 59102

17. 1030 ST JOHNS Apt. 1, Billings, MT 59102

18. 1030 ST.JOHNS Apt. 2, Billings, MT 59102

19. 1030 ST.JOHNS Apt. 3, Billings, MT 59102

20. 1030 ST.JOHNS Apt. 4, Billings, MT 59102 2.3.3 Montana Depart of Revenue 1% Gross Receipts Requirements. As a reminder, as described within the applicable attached forms i.e., Attachments J and J-1, each attached hereto), the ensuing contract awarded is subject to a 1% Montana contractor’s tax provision; accordingly, our Agency will be withholding the required 1% and sending such to the State of Montana, as prescribed within pertinent State Law. Therefore, each bidder must ensure that his/her bid amount proposed reflects and includes this 1% amount. NOTE: The awarded contractor does not complete these forms and send them to the State of Montana, our Agency completes this task; accordingly, these forms have been attached hereto as an information item so that all contractors are fully aware.

2.3.4 Plans and Specifications to the City of Billings Building Department. Bidders are hereby made aware that the scope of work falls under the permit exemptions of the International Building Code 2021 as adopted by the City of Billings. This exemption states that “Permits shall not be required for… cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.” Our Agency, working with our retained architect, has also confirmed that the replacement of finish plumbing fixtures (namely the sinks and faucets specified) do not also require a permit or inspection by a City inspector.

2.4 Contractor Responsibilities (in alpha order).

2.4.1 Access for Emergency Vehicles. The Contractor shall ensure that any equipment and/or vehicles that he/she places on the work site shall not be placed in such a position to interfere with access by any emergency vehicles or traffic by the public at-large. The Agency reserves the right to approve or reject (and demand the movement) of the placement of any such equipment or vehicles at any time during the performance of the contracted work if, in the opinion of the Agency, the placement of such equipment or vehicles does interfere with such traffic.

2.4.2 As-built Record Documents. Do not use Record Documents for construction purposes; protect from loss in a secure location; provide access to Record Documents for the Agency's reference.

2.4.2.1 If issued, maintain a clean, undamaged set of blue or black line white‑prints of Contract Drawings and Shop Drawings. Mark‑up these drawings to show the actual installation. Mark whichever drawing is most capable of showing conditions accurately. Give particular attention to concealed elements that would be difficult to measure and record at a later date.

2.4.3 Communication. The Agency shall be the primary on-site point of contact for the Contractor pertaining to this work. The Contractor shall be free to converse and communicate with the Agency during or between visits; however, all requests for changes or decisions shall be submitted to the Agency and approved by the CEO after receipt and consideration of written request from the Agency. The Agency anticipates that it will typically make a decision in such matters within 3 workdays of receipt, though such response time-frame may be shorter or longer depending on the situation; accordingly, the Contractor shall be required to submit such written requests in as timely a manner as reasonably possible. When construction commences, all communication must be directed to the designated Agency contact person only.

2.4.4 Contract End Items. Upon completion of the project the Contractor must submit the following:

2.4.4.1 A separate payment request for the retainage;

2.4.4.2 A two-year warranty letter from the Contractor;

2.4.4.3 Consent of Surety to Final Payment;

2.4.4.4 Contractor’s Affidavit of Release of Liens;

2.4.4.5 Contractor’s Certificate and Release; and

2.4.4.6 As- built’s (Mark-ups delivered to Agency).

2.4.5 Contractor’s Request for Payment. As detailed within Chapter 9, Procurement and Contract Administration, of Handbook 7485.1.

2.4.5.1 The Agency is responsible for making progress payments. Typically, progress payments for acceptable work and materials delivered and stored on the site will be made at 30-day intervals.

2.4.5.2 Payment will be based on the percentage of work completed during a one-month period.

2.4.5.3 A 10% retainage will be held on each payment request. A separate payment request for the return of the retainage will be required at the completion of the work.

2.4.5.4 Request for Payment Forms. The Contractor shall submit a request for payment for this project on the following forms, each as may be appropriate:

[Table No. 3]

(1)

IFB Section

Form Description

2.4.5.5 Review and Approval. The Agency will review each such Contractor request for payment and will approve the payment only if the following listed conditions are met. If the Contractor requests payment items which have not been completed in a satisfactory manner (“satisfactory,” as determined at the sole discretion of the Agency), the Agency shall hold payment for the unsatisfactory items, and pay the balance of the request (i.e., the undisputed portion). The Agency shall ensure:

2.4.5.5.1 The request for payment is consistent with the Agency-approved schedule of amounts for contract payments;

2.4.5.5.2 As further detailed within the preceding Section 2.2.4.4.8 herein, the total of the request for payment does not include the amount to be retained by the Agency under the contract (retention or retainage);

2.4.5.5.3 The work covered by the request for payment has been performed in accordance with the construction documents;

2.4.5.5.4 The Periodic Estimate for Partial Payment has been properly executed on all applicable supporting documentation submitted; and

2.4.5.5.5 The Contractor has submitted all required reports such as payroll reports.

2.4.5.6 Distribution of Documents. The Contractor shall submit 2 original copies and 1 additional copy of all documentation required. The Agency shall retain the 2 original Periodic Estimate for Partial Payment requests and all applicable supporting documentation for its file and return 1 copy of all such forms to the Contractor.

2.4.6 Debris. The Contractor shall clean work areas daily, at the end of the workday, of all work-generated debris which may endanger the safety of the others (the public; Agency residents; etc.).

2.4.6.1 All work areas must be kept sanitary and clean of any trash. Debris from work must be removed from living areas.

2.4.6.2 The Contractor must examine the work area and determine any unsuitable work condition.

2.4.6.3 Any required removal or replacement of this work caused by unsuitable conditions will be just cause for the Contractor to bear the expense. Notice of unsuitable conditions shall be brought to the Agency’s representative in written form.

2.4.6.4 The Contractor shall provide a construction dumpster as needed to dispose and removal all debris. The use of the Agency dumpsters is prohibited.

2.4.7 Delivery of Materials. The Contractor and each Subcontractor shall inspect the site and determine the availability of storage space and trucking facilities to bring material or equipment into the building, or any other factors affecting the work under this Contract.

2.4.7.1 Long lead items should be ordered as soon as possible, after contracts are signed, to expedite shop drawings and delivery of materials to site. Advance planning will be important to assure timely delivery of materials.

2.4.8 Final Inspection and Punch List. The Agency shall provide one (1) final inspection site visit to develop the final Punch List when the following are completed:

2.2.8.1 All new construction and installations are 100% complete and operational.

2.2.8.2 A test and balance report has been completed and delivered to the Agency for review.

2.2.8.3 All final inspections and permits have been closed and delivered to the Agency.

2.2.8.4 When the Contractor has completed all work, and feels substantial completion has been achieved, the Contractor must document and request a final inspection and punch list be performed by the Agency. This will document the one (1) final inspection and punch list by the Agency.

2.2.8.5 When the Contractor has completed all the punch list items, the Contractor shall document and request a final re-inspection by the Agency.

2.2.8.6 The Agency will provide a one (1) final site visit for re-inspection of the punch list items.

2.2.8.7 If the Agency feels the punch list items have not been completed satisfactorily, notice will be given to the Contractor.

2.2.8.8 All punch list items must be completed at the time of substantial and final acceptance.

2.2.8.9 If the final punch list items are not complete at the time of the final the retainage will be withheld until final acceptance by the Agency.

2.2.9 Lay-out and Dimensions. The Contractor and each Subcontractor shall verify, and field check, all plan dimensions, elevations, and quantities on both the existing building and the new work under their respective responsibilities before proceeding with work. Discrepancies must be brought to the attention of the Agency in writing for clarification or correction. Any Contractor failing to exercise such precautions shall be held responsible for the cost of correcting any resulting errors.

2.2.10 Maintenance Manuals. Organize maintenance data into sets of manageable size. Bind in individual heavy‑duty 2‑inch, 3‑ring vinyl‑covered binders, with pocket folders for folded sheet information. Mark identification on front and spine of each binder. Include the following information:

2.2.10.1 Maintain Emergency instructions;

2.2.10.2 Spare parts list;

2.2.10.3 Copies of warranties;

2.2.10.4 Wiring diagrams;

2.2.10.5 Recommended "turn around" cycles;

2.2.10.6 Inspection procedures; and

2.2.10.7 Shop Drawings and Product Data.

2.2.11 Operating and Maintenance Instructions. Arrange for the installer of equipment that requires regular maintenance to meet with the Owner's personnel to provide instruction in proper operation and maintenance. Include a detailed review of the following:

2.2.11.1 Maintenance manuals;

2.2.11.2 Spare parts and materials;

2.2.11.3 Tools;

2.2.11.4 Lubricants;

2.2.11.5 Control sequences;

2.2.11.6 Hazards;

2.2.11.7 Warranties and bonds;

2.2.11.8 Maintenance agreements and similar continuing commitments;

2.2.11.9 Start up and shutdown;

2.2.11.10 Emergency operations;

2.2.11.11 Noise and vibration adjustments; and

2.2.11.12 Safety procedures.

2.4.12 “Or Equal” Specifications. Herein, or within the attached specifications, whenever the Agency has listed a specific brand name the words “or equal” shall automatically apply thereto. This term “or equal” means that the apparent successful bidder may propose to provide an alternate product as long as such proposed alternate product, in the opinion of the Agency, meets the minimum specifications. As detailed within Section 9.3.B.3 of HUD Procurement Handbook 7460.8 REV 2, brand names are listed herein for “establishing design and quality standards” for the product identified. If a bidder wishes to provide a different product than the product the Agency has identified, the Agency will be pleased to respond to any specific written request from a bidder with a listing of the “essential characteristics” for any such product (the bidder may also, if he/she wishes, wait to see if the firm is the apparent successful bidder then submit such written request after the bid submittal deadline when the Agency will evaluate such alternate products, if submitted).

2.4.13 Payroll Reports. The Contractor shall, during the term of the work, within 7 days of the end of any weekly payroll period, forward to the Agency a copy of the weekly payroll.

2.4.13.1 The Contractor is hereby made aware that the Agency will conduct periodic on-site wage surveys of the Contractor's staff working at the site. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that such work staff cooperate fully with the Agency interviewer. Relating to such interviews, please also see form HUD-11 (08/2004), Attachment G-13, attached hereto.

2.4.14 Permits. The Contractor shall obtain any and all required permits pertaining to any assigned work at his/her expense.

2.4.15 Required Licensing. The Contractor(s) shall be in possession of any current appropriate licensing that may be required by the County of Yellowstone (and/or, if applicable, any city jurisdiction therein in which work will be performed) and/or the State of Montana.

2.4.16 Retainage. Retainage for this work shall be in the amount of 10 percent, which shall be applied to each payment until final payment, at which time all retainage held will be paid by the Agency to the Contractor.

2.4.17 Safety. It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure, at all times during the performance of the work, to the maximum extent feasible, to protect the safety of Agency residents and staff, the Contractor's staff, and subcontractors, and the public. This shall include, but not be limited to, compliance with all OSHA-related Federal and local laws, codes, and regulations.

2.4.18 Security during Work. The Contractor shall take all means necessary to maintain the security of the area in which they are working. These security measures must be carried out on a twenty-four-hour basis, not just during the normal work hours.

2.4.19 Site Assessment. The Contractor and contracted subcontractors are strongly encouraged to examine the project site before submitting a bid.

2.4.19.1 A Pre-bid Conference is scheduled as noted within the preceding Table No. 2 herein. Due to the complexity of the project attendance is strongly encouraged, although not mandatory.

2.4.19.2 Additional site visits after the Pre-bid Conference may be scheduled. The Contractor must contact the Agency Contact Person listed within the preceding Table No. 2 herein to schedule a site visit. Allow a minimum three (3) business days to schedule an appointment. Unscheduled visits are prohibited.

2.4.20 Temporary Facilities. It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to provide any temporary facilities that may be required, including, but not limited to: temporary toilets; water; fencing; barricades; lighting; planking; signage; guardrails; etc. Accordingly, it shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to secure and maintain such items during the term of the work.

2.4.21 Time of Completion. The Contractor shall commence work under the ensuing contract on a date to be specified within the Notice to Proceed form issued by the Agency and shall fully complete all work thereunder within 180 consecutive calendar days from said date. NOTE: Any bidder that may have any concerns pertaining to the noted “180 day” period may bring this up at the Pre-bid Conference. Normal working hours shall be Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (MT). All other working hours require pre-approval. Provide a minimum five (5) working days for approval and planning.

2.4.22 Tools/Equipment/Materials. The Contractor shall ensure that at all times during the work tools, equipment, and material are handled, placed, and stored in a secure and safe manner so as to protect all parties, including, but not limited to, the Contractor's workers, Agency tenants and staff, and the public at large. The Contractor shall ensure that during non-working hours such items are not left unattended on the job site when such safety may be compromised. If applicable, as the building the Contractor will be working in is occupied by housing tenants, including a number of elderly/disabled or special needs persons, it will be especially important that traffic areas are clear for access and egress.

2.4.23 Weekends. Unless otherwise approved by the Agency in writing, the Contractor shall not perform work on Agency property during a holiday nor weekend days (Saturday or Sunday).

2.4.24 Work Standards. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that each worker provided by the Contractor shall be fully trained and qualified to provide any assigned work. Accordingly, all work provided shall be guaranteed by the Contractor to be performed in a workmanlike manner and in accordance with all applicable laws, codes, and/or regulations, including those issued by, but not limited to, the County of Yellowstone (and/or, if applicable, any city jurisdiction therein in which work will be performed), and/or the State of Montana, or any applicable Federal Agency. Smoking is prohibited within the building and on the within the building property boundaries.

3.0

BID FORMAT.

3.1 Two-step Bidding Process. All bidders must initially submit the documentation/ information detailed within the following listed Step #1 of Table No. 4. Then, the Agency anticipates that it will notify the apparent low bidder to submit, within 5 days after being notified to do so, the information detailed within the following detailed Step #2 within the same Table.

3.1.1 Tabbed Bid Submittal. As may be further described herein, the Agency intends to retain a Contractor pursuant to a “Low Bid” basis, also taking into consideration responsiveness and responsibility. Therefore, so that the Agency can properly evaluate the offers received, all bids submitted in response to this IFB must be formatted in accordance with the sequence noted within the table below. Each category must be separated by numbered index dividers, which number extends so that each tab can be located without opening the bid and labeled with the corresponding tab reference also noted below. None of the proposed services may conflict with any requirement the Agency has published herein or has issued by addendum.

[Table No. 4]

(1)

IFB Section (2)

Tab No.

(3)

Description

3.1.1.2.2.1

A brief description of the proposed safety and quality assurance program.

3.1.1.2.2.2

Fully completed form HUD-2530 (02/2013), Previous Participation Certification, Attachment I, attached hereto.

3.1.1.2.2.3

Fully completed form HUD-51000 (1/2014), Schedule of Amounts for Contract Payments, Attachment G-6 attached hereto.

3.1.1.2.2.4

A full listing of all subcontractors that will perform work at the site, including, but not limited to the following for each subcontractor: firm name; owner’s name; full address; telephone; number; email address; State contractor’s license number.

3.1.1.2.5.1

The client’s name;

3.1.1.2.5.2

The client’s contact name;

3.1.1.2.5.3

The client’s telephone number and e-mail address;

3.1.1.2.5.4

A brief narrative description and scope of the service(s) and the dates the services were/are provided.

3.2 Entry of Proposed Fees.

3.2.1 The proposed fees shall be submitted by the bidder and received by the Agency, where provided on the BidNet Direct website. Do not submit, enter or refer to any fees or costs within the 3-tab “hard copy” bid submittal detailed within Section 3.0—any bidder that does so may, at the Agency’s discretion, be rejected without further consideration.

3.2.2 Pricing Items. The proposed fees (Pricing Items) shall be submitted by the bidder and received by the Agency where provided within the BidNet Direct website at www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront. Do not submit, enter or refer to any fees or costs within the 4-tab “hard copy” bid submittal detailed within Section 3.0—any bidder that does so may be rejected without further consideration. Unless otherwise stated, the proposed fees are all-inclusive of all related costs that the successful bidder will incur to provide the noted services, including, but not limited to: employee wages and benefits; clerical support; overhead; profit; licensing; insurance; materials; supplies; tools; equipment; long distance telephone calls; travel expenses; document copying not specifically otherwise agreed to by the Agency; etc.

[Table No. 5]

(1) IFB Section (2)

Pricing Item No.

(3) Qty (4) U/M (5) Description

Firm-Fixed Fee for the demolition, removal, and disposal of the existing kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, sinks and faucets, and the complete new installation of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, sinks and faucets and touch-up finish work at all the South Park Apartments (LOT #1, see addresses above) as detailed herein and within Attachments H and H-1, each attached hereto.

Firm-Fixed Fee for the demolition, removal, and disposal of the existing kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, sinks and faucets, and the complete new installation of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, sinks and faucets and touch-up finish work at all the Eagles Nest Apartments (LOT #2, see addresses above) as detailed herein and within Attachments H and H-1, each attached hereto.

3.3 Additional Information Pertaining to the preceding noted Pricing Items.

3.3.1 IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! Entry of the Proposed Fees. Bidders are required to enter where provided within the BidNet Direct website www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront a reasonable and realistic cost for the firm-fixed fee Pricing Item listed within the preceding Table No. 5 herein.

3.3.1.1 Quantities. All quantities entered by the Agency herein and within the corresponding Pricing Items on the Marketplace are for calculating purposes only. As may be further detailed herein, the Agency does not guarantee any minimum or maximum amount of work as a result of any award ensuing from this IFB, as the Agency anticipates that the ensuing contract will be a Requirements Contract, in which case the Agency shall retain one contractor only.

3.3.2 Review the Entry of Proposed Fees. After a bidder has entered where provided within the BidNet Direct website his/her proposed unit cost for the Pricing Item, The bidder will NOT be able to correct this entry after the posted deadline has expired, which means that the Agency will utilize such entry, correct or incorrect, to determine the apparent low bidder.

3.3.3 Price Escalation. Pertaining to the ensuing contract, there shall be no escalation of the proposed costs allowed at any time during the awarded contract except for any legitimate change orders that may be approved by the Agency.

3.3.4 No Negotiation of Proposed Fees after the Submittal Deadline. The Agency WILL NOT, after the submittal deadline, negotiate an increase to any unit costs or fees proposed prior to the submittal deadline; accordingly, bidders are strongly cautioned to submit a realistic price for each Pricing Item identified within the preceding Table No. 5 herein that the bidder submits a proposed cost for.

3.3.5 Prior Agency Approval Required. Please note that the successful bidder shall NOT conduct any additional work without the prior written authorization of the Agency representative. Failure to abide by this directive shall release the Agency of any obligation to pay the successful bidder for any work conducted without the noted prior written authorization.

3.3.6 No Deposit/No Retainer. The Agency will NOT pay any deposit or retainer fees at any time as a result of award of the ensuing contract (though the Agency may consider, under certain circumstances, a reasonable and justified payment for mobilization).

3.3.7 Davis Bacon Federal Wage Rates. As detailed within pertinent HUD and Federal regulation, the Contractor is required to pay Davis-Bacon wage rates (for all “construction contracts in excess of $2,000”). The applicable Wage Rates pertaining to the work detailed herein is attached hereto and detailed within Attachment G-17. This work will be subject to all the requirements pertaining to Davis-Bacon work, including the applicable Federal forms and procedures (i.e., on-site interviews; certified payrolls; etc.).

3.4 Bonds. As this solicitation pertains to public works or construction, the bonds that are required include (each required for construction bids and/or contracts in excess of $100,000):

3.4.1 Bid Bond. The bid bond or guarantee shall be included in the bid package submitted by each bidder for any proposed fee that is greater than $100,000 (please see the preceding Section 3.1.1.1.3 herein). This bond ensures that if awarded the contract, the bidder will accept and perform the work under the contract. It also ensures that the bidder will not attempt to withdraw or otherwise not fulfill the contract. Finally, the bid bond ensures that the bidder will execute the contractual documents that are required within the time specified in the solicitation or forfeit all or part of the guarantee. A certified check, bank draft, U.S. Government Bonds at par value, bid bond secured by an acceptable surety company, or other negotiable instrument may be accepted as a bid guarantee. If the successful bidder refuses to sign the contract after award, the bid bond is forfeited, and award will go to the next lowest responsive and responsible bidder. If a bid bond or guarantee is not submitted with the bid, the Agency will reject the bid as non-responsive. The Agency anticipates that it will not return any bid bonds until the contract has been awarded and the required performance and payments bonds have been furnished; until all bids have been rejected; or the time specified for acceptance of bids has expired. In fairness to the other bidders, the Agency may also choose to return the bid bonds if the Agency has a firm and reasonable assurance that the responsive and responsible bidder who submitted the lowest cost will execute the contract.

3.4.2 Performance Bond. The performance bond is meant to ensure that the contract is successfully completed. The performance bond guarantees that if the Contractor is unable to complete the contract, the surety company will step in to finish the work. In the case of a letter of credit or cash escrow, the Agency may use these funds to complete the contract work.

3.4.3 Payment Bond. The payment bond is a method of ensuring that the Contractor pays the subcontractors and suppliers. By requiring payment bonds, the Agency avoids becoming entangled in disputes concerning payment of subcontractors and suppliers by the general contractor. The surety underwriting the payment bond ensures the contractors and suppliers will be paid. Often, performance and payment bonds are combined into a single document. Failure to pay subcontractors for work performed in commercial contracts may often lead to the subcontractor filing a mechanic’s lien against property owners to obtain payment for services rendered. The Agency contract requires the payment bond to prevent this problem and ensure that no liens will be filed against any Agency building or lot of ground. As a reminder, Clause 24 of form HUD-5370, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction (Attachment G-1 attached hereto) clearly forbid the placement of liens and is binding on any contractor, subcontractor, and material supplier.

3.4.4 Bonding Companies. An acceptable surety (bonding) company is one that is authorized to do business in the State of Mont and is acceptable to HUD and the Agency. The surety must be listed on the most recently published U.S. Treasury Circular 570 (often referred to as the T-List). Individual sureties are not permitted. Circular 570 is available from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service, Surety Bond Branch, Room #262C, 401 14th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20227. The T-List may also be accessed on the Internet at: http://www.fms.treas.gov/c570/index.html.

3.4.5 Bonding Requirements. In order to encourage participation by a broad range of competitors, including small and minority firms, HUD has provided for alternate bid and contract guaranties. These apply to all construction projects greater than $100,000 (though, at the Agencies discretion, may apply to smaller projects), whether development or modernization, funded pursuant to the U.S. Housing Act of 1937, as amended. As a result, the contractors for all construction projects shall be required to submit the following bid and contract guarantees. Please note that only the bid bond is required at time of bid; however, one of the purposes of the bid bond is to provide the Agency with assurance that the successful bidder will indeed obtain the necessary performance and payment bonds. Required bonds include a bid guarantee from each bidder, equivalent to 5% of the bid price and, from the successful bidder, one of the following:

3.4.5.1 A performance and payment bond for 100% of the contract price; or

3.4.5.2 Separate payment and performance bonds each for 50% or more of the contract price; or

3.4.5.3 A 20% cash escrow; or

3.4.5.4 A 25% irrevocable letter of credit.

3.4.6 Inadequate Surety. If the low bidder fails to provide an acceptable assurance of completion (payment and performance bonds) after award of the contract, the Agency may consider the bid guarantee forfeited and notify the surety company. The contract is then terminated for default. The amount to be recovered from the bid bond or guarantee will typically equal at least the difference between the defaulted bid and the next higher acceptable bid or the amount by which the bid accepted by re-soliciting exceeds the defaulted contract.

3.5 Bid Submission. All bids must be submitted and time-stamped received in the designated Agency office by no later than the submittal deadline stated herein (or within any ensuing addendum). A total of 1 original signature copy (marked "ORIGINAL") of the bid submittal, shall be placed unfolded in a sealed package and addressed and delivered to:

HomeFront Attention: Brian Starr, Director of Procurement & Construction 2415 1st Avenue North, Billings, MT 59101 3.5.1 Submission Package Markings. The package exterior must clearly denote the above noted IFB number and must have the bidder’s name and return address listed within the upper left-hand area of the front of the package.

3.5.2 Submission Conditions. DO NOT FOLD OR MAKE ANY ADDITIONAL MARKS, NOTATIONS, OR REQUIREMENTS ON THE DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED! Proposers are not allowed to change any requirements or forms contained herein, either by making or entering onto these documents or the documents submitted any revisions or additions; and if any such additional marks, notations or requirements are entered on any of the documents that are submitted to the Agency by the bidder, such may invalidate that bid. If, after accepting such a bid, the Agency decides that any such entry has not changed the intent of the bid that the Agency intended to receive, the Agency may accept the bid and the bid shall be considered by the Agency as if those additional marks, notations, or requirements were not entered on such. By accessing the BidNet Direct website at www.bidnetdirect.com//homefront, registering, and downloading these documents, each prospective bidder that does so is thereby agreeing to confirm all notices that the Agency delivers to him/her as instructed, and by submitting a bid, the bidder is thereby agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions published herein and by addendum pertaining to this IFB.

3.5.3 Submission Responsibilities. It shall be the responsibility of each bidder to be aware of and to abide by all dates, times, conditions, requirements, and specifications set forth within all applicable documents issued by HomeFront, including the IFB document, the documents listed within the following Section 3.9, and any addenda and required attachments submitted by the bidder. By virtue of completing, signing, and submitting the completed documents, the bidder is stating his/her agreement to comply with all conditions and requirements set forth within those documents. Written notice from the bidder not authorized in writing by the CO to exclude any of HomeFront requirements contained within the documents may cause that bidder to not be considered for award.

3.6 Bidder’s Responsibilities — Contact with HomeFront. It is the responsibility of the bidder to address all communication and correspondence pertaining to this IFB process to the named CO only. Proposers must not make inquiry or communicate with any other Agency staff member or official (including members of the Board of Commissioners) pertaining to this IFB. Failure to abide by this requirement may be cause for HomeFront to not consider a bid submittal received from any bidder who may not have abided by this directive.

3.6.1 Addenda. All questions and requests for information must be addressed in writing to the CO. The CO will respond to all such inquiries in writing by addendum to all prospective proposers (i.e. individual/firms or individuals that have obtained the IFB Documents). During the IFB solicitation process, the CO will NOT conduct any ex parte (a substantive conversation—”substantive” meaning, when decisions pertaining to the IFB are made—between HomeFront and a prospective bidder when other prospective proposers are not present) conversations that may give one prospective bidder an advantage over other prospective proposers. This does not mean that prospective proposers may not call the CO—it simply means that, other than making replies to direct the prospective bidder where his/her answer has already been issued within the solicitation documents, the CO may not respond to the prospective bidder’s inquiries but will direct him/her to submit such inquiry in writing so that the CO may more fairly respond to all prospective proposers in writing by addendum.

3.7 Bidder’s Responsibilities — Equal Employment Opportunity and Supplier Diversity. Both the Contractor and HomeFront have, pursuant to HUD regulation, certain responsibilities pertaining to the hiring and retention of personnel and subcontractors.

3.7.1 Within 2 CFR §200.321 it states:

3.7.1.1…