36C25226Q0214_1.docx

36C25226Q0214

PAGE 1 OF

1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE

4. ORDER NO.

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME

b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY

CODE

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

UNRESTRICTED OR

SET ASIDE:

% FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ

IFB

RFP

15. DELIVER TO

CODE

16. ADMINISTERED BY

CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

UEI:

EFT:

PHONE:

FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

ITEM NO.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only) 27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER) 30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

(REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

None 585-26-2-6025-0008 36C25226Q0214 04-13-2026 Bruening,Debbie 414-844-4812 04- -2026 10:00

CST

Department of Veterans Affairs 36C252 115 South 84th Street, Suite 101 Milwaukee WI 53214-1476 X X 561730 $9.5 Million N/A X Department of Veterans Affairs 36C252 115 South 84th Street, Suite 101 Milwaukee WI 53214-1476 Department of Veterans Affairs 36C252 Great Lakes Acquisition Center - HC 115 South 84th Street, Suite 101 Milwaukee WI 53214-1476

Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center PO Box 149971 Austin TX 78714-9971 X See CONTINUATION Page Lawn/Grounds Maintenance Weed and Feed per SOW Service Contract Labor Standards Do Apply DOL Wage Determination Dickinson County 2015-4871 (Rev-31) dated 12.03.2025 is hereby incorporated.

See CONTINUATION Page X X X 1(One) Ashley Johnson Contracting Officer

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA (continuation from Standard Form 1449)

OFFERORS MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN ALL INFORMATION DESIGNATED HEREIN PRIOR TO THE TIME SPECIFIED IN BLOCK 8 OF SF 1449 IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR AWARD.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

1. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

CONTRACTOR NAME _____________________________________

ADDRESS ________________________________________________

CITY-STATE-ZIP __________________________________________

POINT OF CONTACT/TITLE ________________________________

SAM UEI NO. ____________________________________________

CAGE CODE _____________________________________________

CONTRACTOR’S PAST PERFORMANCE POINT OF CONTACT

(IF DIFFERENT THAN ABOVE):

NAME: __________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________________

b. GOVERNMENT:

CONTRACTING OFFICE CODE: 36C252

MILWAUKEE WI 53214

2. ACQUISITION OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS:

This Request for Quote (RFQ) solicitation is issued under the authority of FAR Part 12 Acquisition of Commercial Items and FAR Part 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures. FAR Part 15 will not be used. The procedures in Part 12 used in conjunction with Part 13 allow the Government to procure services resembling those in the commercial marketplace and streamline the procurement process. From this RFQ, the Government intends to award a firm fixed price contract where the contractor provides a price that is not subject to any adjustment on the basis of the contractor’s cost experience in performing the contract. (Note: The terms “offeror” and “quoter” are both used in this Solicitation. For the purposes of this Solicitation, these terms are interchangeable; there is no difference in meaning between the two.)

3. SET-ASIDE (If any): See box 10 of STANDARD FORM 1449

4. SOLICITATION TIMELINE SUMMARY:

A. SITE VISIT:

It is strongly suggested and expected that the offeror inspect the campus to be serviced to fully understand the nature of the work and the conditions under which the work is to be performed. In no case shall failure to inspect the campus constitute grounds for a claim after contract award.

SITE VISIT IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY APRIL 21, 2026, AT 09:00 AM LOCAL TIME (CENTRAL TIME). AT THE OSCAR G JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER LOCATED IN IRON MOUNTAIN, MICHIGAN. ALL INTERESTED PARTIES TO MEET COR DONALD DEMEUSE AT THE BOILER PLANT/TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 2 (see attached SITE VISIT MAP). IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE AT THE SITE VISIT, PLEASE EMAIL GLAC CONTRACT SPECAILIST: debbie.bruening@va.gov AND donald.demeuse@va.gov .

B. RFQ QUESTIONS:

In order to maintain integrity of this solicitation and subsequent award date, all offerors are advised that any question and answer requests must be submitted in a written form via e-mail to the Contract Specialist DEBBIE.BRUENING@VA.GOV no later than WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2026, AT 10AM LOCAL TIME (CENTRAL TIME). Contracting will issue a consolidated response via solicitation amendment to https://sam.gov Contract Opportunities within 2 business days to all parties

C. SOLICITATION CLOSES/QUOTES DUE:

See box 8 of STANDARD FORM 1449 or most recent Amendment.

D. SUBMISSION OF QUOTE:

See 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors—Commercial Products and Commercial Services and addendum for specific instructions to offerors.

5. CONTRACTING OFFICER AUTHORITY:

The Contracting Officer is the only person authorized to approve changes or modify any of the requirements under this contract. The Contractor shall communicate with the Contracting Officer on all matters pertaining to contract administration. Only the Contracting Officer is authorized to make commitment or issue changes that will affect price, quantity or quality of performance of this contract. In the event the Contractor effects any such change at the direction of any person other than the Contracting Officer, the change shall be considered to have been made without authority, and no adjustment will be made in the contract price to cover any increase in cost incurred thereof.

6. INVOICES:

a. All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with: FAR 52.232-33 PAYMENT BY ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER – SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (OCT 2018)

b. Invoices shall be submitted monthly in arrears in accordance with: 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV 2018)

c. Payments shall be made in arrears upon receipt of a properly prepared invoice

d. Facsimile, e-mail, and scanned documents are not acceptable forms of submission for payment requests.

e. The VA has mandated electronic invoice submission to the Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC). VAFSC has partnered with Tungsten Network e-Invoicing network, for submissions of all electronic invoices to VA. Tungsten Network electronic invoicing is free to all VA vendors. In order to submit electronic invoices, all VA vendors must register with Tungsten Network by submitting an email to VA.Registration@Tungsten-Network.com or calling 1-877-489-6135 for Enrollment.

f. Contractor shall submit an electronic invoice by the tenth (10th) of the following month services were performed to the Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC) e-Invoice through the website at https://portal.Tungsten-Network.com/Login.aspx. For questions regarding the submission of VA electronic invoices, Tungsten Network customer service may be contacted at 1-877-489-6135.

g. All invoices shall reference the vendor name and address, customer name, contract number, appropriate obligation/funding order number, description of services provided, quantity, unit price, and total invoice amount (any additional info). Invoices shall also include any payment discount terms.

h. VA’s Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment System – The Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC) uses a third-party contractor, Tungsten Network e-Invoice, to transition vendors from paper to electronic invoice submission. Please go to this website: http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer-campaigns/veteransaffairs/ to begin submitting electronic invoices, free of charge.

i. As of July 1, 2020, the VA10091 form has been eliminated and the VAFSC is requiring our vendors to update and add their information in the Customer Engagement Portal (CEP) at https://www.cep.fsc.va.gov/. This is for new vendors being added to FMS only.

j. For assistance setting up e-Invoice, the below information is provided:

* Tungsten Network e-Invoice Setup Information: 1-877-489-6135

* Tungsten Network e-Invoice email: VA.Registration@Tungsten-Network.com

* FSC e-Invoice Contact Information: 1-877-353-9791

* FSC e-invoice email: vafsccshd@va.gov

7. FACILITY REQUIREMENTS: In addition to any other requirements set forth in this Contract, the Contractor, including its employees, agents, and subcontractors (collectively “the Contractor”), shall comply with the following facility requirements. Failure to comply with these requirements shall be considered a material breach of this Contract and may be a violation of Federal law resulting in charges answerable in the United States District Court.

a. Contractor is responsible to follow all on site facility policies

b. All VA property is considered Federal property, and all Federal laws are applicable.

c. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to park in the appropriate designated parking areas. Information on parking is available from the VA Police Section. The VA will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations of the Contractor under any conditions.

d. All VA facilities are drug free. Possession of drugs, to include Marijuana and all Marijuana bi-products are prohibited. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, shall be subject to search. Violations of VA regulations may result in citation answerable in the United States (Federal) District Court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

e. All contractor personnel are required to adhere to all VA rules and regulations.

f. Smoking is prohibited on the entire campus, both inside and outside the VA Facility

g. Possession of weapons is prohibited. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, shall be subject to search. Violations of VA regulations may result in citation answerable in the United States (Federal) District Court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

h. VHA DIRECTIVE 1192: This Veterans Health Administration (VHA) directive establishes policy and provides guidance for the prevention of seasonal influenza in VHA facilities through the vaccination or masking of health care personnel (HCP). AUTHORITY: Title 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) 7301(b), 7318(b). Contractor is responsible in ensuring that all aspects of this directive are implemented, including providing face masks and influenza vaccines for all employees working at a VA facility.

8. SECURITY & PRIVACY CONTROL:

The Authorization & Accreditation (A&A) requirements of VHA Handbook 6500.6 do not apply to this requirement, therefore, a Security Accreditation Package is not required. No A&A or MOU/ISA is required. Sensitive information exposure as part of this contract involves applicable security controls within the facility as part of the VA Information Security. Contractors shall coordinate all badging, background checks, and fingerprinting with the COR or otherwise designated facility point of contact. Reference VA Handbook 0710, VA Handbook 0735, VA Directive 0735. Contractor, contractor employees ,and subcontractors shall be subject to security requirements in accordance with VA Handbook 0735 and VHA Directive 0735 and in coordination with the facility point of contact. Contractor shall bear any costs for these requirements. If there are any questions related to privacy, please have a member of your staff contact the VA Privacy Service at (202) 461-6309. If there are any questions related to the information security, please have a member of your staff contact the Office of Cyber Security at (304) 262-7733.

NARA in accordance with 36 CFR 1230.

1. Contractor shall comply with all applicable records management laws and regulations, as well as National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) records policies, including but not limited to the Federal Records Act (44 U.S.C. chs. 21, 29, 31, 33), NARA regulations at 36 CFR Chapter XII Subchapter B, and those policies associated with the safeguarding of records covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). These policies include the preservation of all records, regardless of form or characteristics, mode of transmission, or state of completion.

2. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, all data created for Government use and delivered to, or falling under the legal control of, the Government are Federal records subject to the provisions of 44 U.S.C. chapters 21, 29, 31, and 33, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), as amended, and the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a), as amended and must be managed and scheduled for disposition only as permitted by statute or regulation.

3. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, Contractor shall maintain all records created for Government use or created in the course of performing the contract and/or delivered to, or under the legal control of the Government and must be managed in accordance with Federal law. Electronic records and associated metadata must be accompanied by sufficient technical documentation to permit understanding and use of the records and data.

4. VA Illiana and its contractors are responsible for preventing the alienation or unauthorized destruction of records, including all forms of mutilation. Records may not be removed from the legal custody of VA Illiana or destroyed except for in accordance with the provisions of the agency records schedules and with the written concurrence of the Head of the Contracting Activity. Willful and unlawful destruction, damage or alienation of Federal records is subject to the fines and penalties imposed by 18 U.S.C. 2701. In the event of any unlawful or accidental removal, defacing, alteration, or destruction of records, Contractor must report to VA Illiana. The agency must report promptly to NARA in accordance with 36 CFR 1230.

5. The Contractor shall immediately notify the appropriate Contracting Officer upon discovery of any inadvertent or unauthorized disclosures of information, data, documentary materials, records or equipment. Disclosure of non-public information is limited to authorized personnel with a need-to-know as described in the [contract vehicle]. The Contractor shall ensure that the appropriate personnel, administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are established to ensure the security and confidentiality of this information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is properly protected. The Contractor shall not remove material from Government facilities or systems, or facilities or systems operated or maintained on the Government's behalf, without the express written permission of the Head of the Contracting Activity. When information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is no longer required, it shall be returned to VA Illiana control or the Contractor must hold it until otherwise directed. Items returned to the Government shall be hand-carried, mailed, emailed, or securely electronically transmitted to the Contracting Officer or address prescribed in the [contract vehicle]. Destruction of records is EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED unless in accordance with Paragraph (4).

6. The Contractor is required to obtain the Contracting Officer's approval prior to engaging in any contractual relationship (sub-contractor) in support of this contract requiring the disclosure of information, documentary material and/or records generated under, or relating to, contracts. The Contractor (and any sub-contractor) is required to abide by Government and VA Illiana guidance for protecting sensitive, proprietary information, classified, and controlled unclassified information.

7. The Contractor shall only use Government IT equipment for purposes specifically tied to or authorized by the contract and in accordance with VA policy.

8. The Contractor shall not create or maintain any records containing any non-public VA Illiana information that are not specifically tied to or authorized by the contract.

9. The Contractor shall not retain, use, sell, or disseminate copies of any deliverable that contains information covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 or that which is generally protected from public disclosure by an exemption to the Freedom of Information Act.

10. VA Illiana owns the rights to all data and records produced as part of this contract. All deliverables under the contract are the property of the U.S. Government for which VA Illiana shall have unlimited rights to use, dispose of, or disclose such data contained therein as it determines to be in the public interest. Any Contractor rights in the data or deliverables must be identified as required by FAR 52.227-11 through FAR 52.227-20.

11. Training. All Contractor employees assigned to this contract who create, work with or otherwise handle records are required to take VA Illiana-provided records management training. The Contractor is responsible for confirming training has been completed according to agency policies, including initial training and any annual or refresher training.

[Note: To the extent an agency requires contractors to complete records management training, the agency must provide the training to the contractor.] D. Flow down of requirements to subcontractors

1. The Contractor shall incorporate the substance of this clause, its terms, and requirements including this paragraph, in all subcontracts under this [contract vehicle], and require written subcontractor acknowledgment of same.

Violation by a subcontractor of any provision set forth in this clause will be attributed to the Contractor.

STATEMENT OF WORK

Part I: General Information A. Introduction The Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center (OGJVAMC) has a requirement for grounds maintenance to include lawn care services at 325 East H Street. Iron Mountain, MI 48901.

B. Scope

1. The contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, tools, equipment, vehicles, transportation and chemicals necessary to provide Weed and Feed lawn care services. Lawn care services shall maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs and plants and present a clean, neat and professional appearance. Safety devices shall be utilized at all times on all equipment.

2. Lawn care services include over seeding, fertilizing, vibratory aerovation, pre and post emergent, vegetation control, and broad leaf weed control.

3. Joint Commission Requirements

a. The contractor shall attend a post-award orientation meeting prior to any work on site. VA shall schedule the meeting, and it shall include discussion of the following topics: (VA shall provide information to the Contractor regarding these topics and shall document the meeting.)

i. Fire and Safety

ii. Infection control

iii. Disaster procedures

iv. Security

b. Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that Contractor employees coming to the work site receive the information required above.

4. Contractor’s personnel shall interrupt their work at any time to avoid interference with patient care procedures and the normal functioning of the facility, to include utility services, fire protection systems and passage of facility patients.

C. Applicable Documents The contractor shall ensure that the equipment functions in conformance with the latest published edition of the regulations for the work identified. Contractors shall ensure that the application of chemicals is in conformance with the latest published edition of the regulations for the work identified.

1. EPA (FIFRA (Federal Insecticide Fungicide and Rodenticide Act): The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act was enacted in June 25, 1947.

2. Applicators of lawn chemicals classified as restricted use shall provide a copy of their current commercial pesticide/fertilizer applicator certification prior to applying any lawn chemicals on VA Property. http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/incode/15/16/5

3. EPA (40 CFR 170 Pesticide Worker Protection Standard): All commercial applicators shall wear appropriate PPE to prevent chemical exposures.

4. OSHA (29 CFR 1910.1200): Contractor shall inform employees of the hazards of working with any chemicals they shall be working with.

5. OSHA (29 CFR 1910 Subpart I Personal Protective Equipment): Contractor shall ensure staff wear appropriate PPE to protect their employees from injury.

Part II: Work Requirements

a. Lawn maintenance shall include the following:

i. Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

ii. Fall preparation of existing sod/soil/lawn for over seeding shall be completed on all lawns during the period from September 15 to October 15.

1) Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used)

2) Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

3) Provide and apply suitable starter fertilizer as needed.

iii. Fertilizing/herbicide (four step treatment program) for lawns and all other vegetation. The Annual Four Step program includes;

1) Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

2) Late Spring/Early Summer: fertilize and post emergent treatment (weed and feed) for lawns.

3) Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

4) Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterize treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

b. Contractor shall be a state certified applicator for herbicides. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) shall be provided prior to notice to proceed. The contractor shall plan work to be performed in a safe and effective manner before work starts.

c. All chemicals shall be applied between 3 PM and 8 PM, Monday through Friday, unless an alternative schedule is approved by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

3. Safety Requirements Contractor shall take such safety precautions reasonably necessary to protect the lives and health of occupants of the facility. Contractor shall immediately correct conditions the Contracting Officer or designee may deem as safety concerns. If the contractor fails or refuses to comply promptly, the Contracting Officer may issue an order stopping all or any part of the work and hold the contractor in default.

4. Quality Assurance The COR will survey contractor’s performance to ensure that all service requirement objectives are met.

5. Deliverables

a. Contractors shall submit licenses and certification of training.

b. Contractor shall also provide a written service ticket for all services rendered at completion of service. The service ticket shall include time(s) in/out, task(s) completed and contractor employee name(s) completing the task.

c. Contractor shall provide a Point of Contact List with current names and telephone numbers of employees performing grounds maintenance services for the OGJVAMC. The number(s) shall be manned during normal business hours.

Part III: Additional Contract Requirements A. General

1. The Contractor’s employees shall wear visible identification and company uniforms approved by the COR at all times while on the premises of the VAMC.

2. The Contractor’s employees shall wear their VA PIV Card at all times while on the premises of the VAMC.

3. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to park in the appropriate designated parking areas. Information on parking is available from the VA Police Section or from the COR.

4. Contractor shall not possess weapons on VA Property.

5. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, shall be subject to search. Violations of VA regulations a result in citation answerable in the United States (Federal) District Court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

6. Point of Contact List –Contractor shall provide current Michigan State License for Pesticide Application. Provide:

a. Certified Applicator

b. Certificate of financial responsibility

7. Storage space is NOT provided at OGJVAMC for lawn care equipment and supplies.

8. OGJVAMC is not responsible for maintenance or repair of contractor’s equipment due to wear and tear, due to any damage incurred in the performance of the contract, or for any loss or damage to material or equipment while at OGJVAMC.

B. Place of Performance OGJVAMC, 325 East H Street, Iron Mountain, MI 49801

C. Period of Performance Period of performance is Upon Award through April 30, 2027, with four (4) one-year option periods to be exercised at the discretion of the Government.

D. Qualifications of Key Personnel Contractor shall be licensed/certified by the State of Michigan to apply lawn chemical treatments.

E. Hours of Operation

1. Lawn care services shall be completed during or after normal business hours, or during weekends from approximately April 1 through March 31.

2. VA normal business hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding the National Holidays listed below and any other day declared a National Holiday by the President of the United States:

New Years’ Day, Martin Luther King, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day F. Check-in Upon arrival at VA Medical Center, all Contractor personnel shall check-in with the COR during normal business hours or the AOD after hours and weekends. Contractor shall also provide a written service ticket for all services rendered at completion of service.

1. During normal business hours, the COR or AOD shall contact the Contractor when non- scheduled service is needed.

2. During non-business hours the AOD shall contact the Contractor when non-scheduled service is needed.

G. Protection of Government Property

1. Contractor shall take special care to protect Government property to include all exterior porches, turf, walkways and pathways, vegetation and any government property where the services are performed. Equipment that can cause damage to asphalt, blacktop or concrete (i.e. equipment with metal tracks) is prohibited.

2. Contractor shall be responsible for any damage to concrete curbs, sidewalks, ramps, signage and sign poles, storm drains, utilities serving the facility, manhole and utility access covers, flower beds, shrubbery, trees, parking space stops and areas of lawn and grass incurred during the performance of the contract. Damage to trees and shrubs from trimming shall be repaired by the contractor. The contractor shall be responsible for replacing the damaged plant with a plant of the same size and type. Plant replacement shall occur within 15 days of noticed damage.

3. All damage shall be reported to the Contracting Officer and COR with-in the same business day of the occurrence. Report of damage shall be reported to the COR or AOD within one (1) hour if said damage results in a safety hazard and needs immediate attention. Damage resulting from Contractor operations shall be repaired by the Contractor to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer at no additional cost to the Government.

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

Late Spring/Early Summer: fertilize and post emergent treatment (weed and feed) for lawns.

Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterization treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 05-01-2026 POP End: 04-30-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 561730 - Landscaping Services PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: S208 - Housekeeping - Landscaping/Groundskeeping

Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 05-01-2026 POP End: 04-30-2027

Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used) Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 05-01-2026 POP End: 04-30-2027

Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

Provide and apply suitable starter fertilizer as needed Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 05-01-2026 POP End: 04-30-2027

Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterization treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 05-01-2027 POP End: 04-30-2028

Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 05-01-2027 POP End: 04-30-2028

Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used) Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 05-01-2027 POP End: 04-30-2028

Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 05-01-2027 POP End: 04-30-2028

Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterization treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 05-01-2028 POP End: 04-30-2029

Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 05-01-2028 POP End: 04-30-2029

Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used) Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 05-01-2028 POP End: 04-30-2029

Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 05-01-2028 POP End: 04-30-2029

Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterization treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 05-01-2029 POP End: 04-30-2030

Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 05-01-2029 POP End: 04-30-2030

Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used) Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 05-01-2029 POP End: 04-30-2030

Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 05-01-2029 POP End: 04-30-2030

Early Spring: fertilize and pre-emergent treatment for crab grass control for lawns.

Midsummer: fertilize lawns.

Late Fall: Fertilize and treat with broadleaf weed control (commonly referred as winterization treatment) for lawn. Care shall be taken on this step to wait until over seeding has already germinated.

Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 05-01-2030 POP End: 04-30-2031

Monthly (May-August) chemical treatment of vegetation from cracks in walks, along walls, curbs, ramps, under perimeter fence, all landscaping beds, and all other paved areas.

Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 05-01-2030 POP End: 04-30-2031

Vibration Aera-Vate (aerate) all lawn surfaces in preparation of over seeding. (Core type aeration shall not be used) Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 05-01-2030 POP End: 04-30-2031

Utilize basic landscaping blend type grass seed suitable for Michigan region.

Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 05-01-2030 POP End: 04-30-2031

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023)

(a) Inspection/Acceptance. The Contractor shall only tender for acceptance those items that conform to the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or reperformance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price. If repair/replacement or reperformance will not correct the defects or is not possible, the Government may seek an equitable price reduction or adequate consideration for acceptance of nonconforming supplies or services. The Government must exercise its post-acceptance rights—

(1) Within a reasonable time after the defect was discovered or should have been discovered; and

(2) Before any substantial change occurs in the condition of the item, unless the change is due to the defect in the item.

(b) Assignment. The Contractor or its assignee may assign its rights to receive payment due as a result of performance of this contract to a bank, trust company, or other financing institution, including any Federal lending agency in accordance with the Assignment of Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3727). However, when a third party makes payment (e.g., use of the Governmentwide commercial purchase card), the Contractor may not assign its rights to receive payment under this contract.

(c) Changes. Changes in the terms and conditions of this contract may be made only by written agreement of the parties.

(d) Disputes. This contract is subject to 41 U.S.C. chapter 71, Contract Disputes. Failure of the parties to this contract to reach agreement on any request for equitable adjustment, claim, appeal or action arising under or relating to this contract shall be a dispute to be resolved in accordance with the clause at Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.233-1, Disputes, which is incorporated herein by reference. The Contractor shall proceed diligently with performance of this contract, pending final resolution of any dispute arising under the contract.

(e) Definitions. The clause at FAR 52.202-1, Definitions, is incorporated herein by reference.

(f) Excusable delays. The Contractor shall be liable for default unless nonperformance is caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the Contractor and without its fault or negligence such as, acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, unusually severe weather, and delays of common carriers. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer in writing as soon as it is reasonably possible after the commencement of any excusable delay, setting forth the full particulars in connection therewith, shall remedy such occurrence with all reasonable dispatch, and shall promptly give written notice to the Contracting Officer of the cessation of such occurrence.

(g) Invoice.

(1) The Contractor shall submit an original invoice and three copies (or electronic invoice, if authorized) to the address designated in the contract to receive invoices. An invoice must include—

(i) Name and address of the Contractor;

(ii) Invoice date and number;

(iii) Contract number, line item number and, if applicable, the order number;

(iv) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price and extended price of the items delivered;

(v) Shipping number and date of shipment, including the bill of lading number and weight of shipment if shipped on Government bill of lading;

(vi) Terms of any discount for prompt payment offered;

(vii) Name and address of official to whom payment is to be sent;

(viii) Name, title, and phone number of person to notify in event of defective invoice; and

(ix) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). The Contractor shall include its TIN on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(x) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) banking information.

(A) The Contractor shall include EFT banking information on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(B) If EFT banking information is not required to be on the invoice, in order for the invoice to be a proper invoice, the Contractor shall have submitted correct EFT banking information in accordance with the applicable solicitation provision, contract clause (e.g., 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System for Award Management, or 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management), or applicable agency procedures.

(C) EFT banking information is not required if the Government waived the requirement to pay by EFT.

(2) Invoices will be handled in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR part 1315.

(h) Patent indemnity. The Contractor shall indemnify the Government and its officers, employees and agents against liability, including costs, for actual or alleged direct or contributory infringement of, or inducement to infringe, any United States or foreign patent, trademark or copyright, arising out of the performance of this contract, provided the Contractor is reasonably notified of such claims and proceedings.

(i) Payment.—

(1) Items accepted. Payment shall be made for items accepted by the Government that have been delivered to the delivery destinations set forth in this contract.

(2) Prompt payment. The Government will make payment in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR part 1315.

(3) Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). If the Government makes payment by EFT, see 52.212-5(b) for the appropriate EFT clause.

(4) Discount. In connection with any discount offered for early payment, time shall be computed from the date of the invoice. For the purpose of computing the discount earned, payment shall be considered to have been made on the date which appears on the payment check or the specified payment date if an electronic funds transfer payment is made.

(5) Overpayments. If the Contractor becomes aware of a duplicate contract financing or invoice payment or that the Government has otherwise overpaid on a contract financing or invoice payment, the Contractor shall—

(i) Remit the overpayment amount to the payment office cited in the contract along with a description of the overpayment including the—

(A) Circumstances of the overpayment (e.g., duplicate payment, erroneous payment, liquidation errors, date(s) of overpayment);

(B) Affected contract number and delivery order number, if applicable;

(C) Affected line item or subline item, if applicable; and

(D) Contractor point of contact.

(ii) Provide a copy of the remittance and supporting documentation to the Contracting Officer.

(6) Interest.

(i) All amounts that become payable by the Contractor to the Government under this contract shall bear simple interest from the date due until paid unless paid within 30 days of becoming due. The interest rate shall be the interest rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury as provided in 41 U.S.C. 7109, which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, as provided in (i)(6)(v) of this clause, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period as fixed by the Secretary until the amount is paid.

(ii) The Government may issue a demand for payment to the Contractor upon finding a debt is due under the contract.

(iii) Final decisions. The Contracting Officer will issue a final decision as required by 33.211 if—

(A) The Contracting Officer and the Contractor are unable to reach agreement on the existence or amount of a debt within 30 days;

(B) The Contractor fails to liquidate a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer within the timeline specified in the demand for payment unless the amounts were not repaid because the Contractor has requested an installment payment agreement; or

(C) The Contractor requests a deferment of collection on a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer (see 32.607-2).

(iv) If a demand for payment was previously issued for the debt, the demand for payment included in the final decision shall identify the same due date as the original demand for payment.

(v) Amounts shall be due at the earliest of the following dates:

(A) The date fixed under this contract.

(B) The date of the first written demand for payment, including any demand for payment resulting from a default termination.

(vi) The interest charge shall be computed for the actual number of calendar days involved beginning on the due date and ending on—

(A) The date on which the designated office receives payment from the Contractor;

(B) The date of issuance of a Government check to the Contractor from which an amount otherwise payable has been withheld as a credit against the contract debt; or

(C) The date on which an amount withheld and applied to the contract debt would otherwise have become payable to the Contractor.

(vii) The interest charge made under this clause may be reduced under the procedures prescribed in FAR 32.608-2 in effect on the date of this contract.

(j) Risk of loss. Unless the contract specifically provides otherwise, risk of loss or damage to the supplies provided under this contract shall remain with the Contractor until, and shall pass to the Government upon:

(1) Delivery of the supplies to a carrier, if transportation is f.o.b. origin; or

(2) Delivery of the supplies to the Government at the destination specified in the contract, if transportation is f.o.b. destination.

(k) Taxes. The contract price includes all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes and duties.

(l) Termination for the Government's convenience. The Government reserves the right to terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for its sole convenience. In the event of such termination, the Contractor shall immediately stop all work hereunder and shall immediately cause any and all of its suppliers and subcontractors to cease work. Subject to the terms of this contract, the Contractor shall be paid a percentage of the contract price reflecting the percentage of the work performed prior to the notice of termination, plus reasonable charges the Contractor can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Government using its standard record keeping system, have resulted from the termination. The Contractor shall not be required to comply with the cost accounting standards or contract cost principles for this purpose. This paragraph does not give the Government any right to audit the Contractor's records. The Contractor shall not be paid for any work performed or costs incurred which reasonably could have been avoided.

(m) Termination for cause. The Government may terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for cause in the event of any default by the Contractor, or if the Contractor fails to comply with any contract terms and conditions, or fails to provide the Government, upon request, with adequate assurances of future performance. In the event of termination for cause, the Government shall not be liable to the Contractor for any amount for supplies or services not accepted, and the Contractor shall be liable to the Government for any and all rights and remedies provided by law. If it is determined that the Government improperly terminated this contract for default, such termination shall be deemed a termination for convenience.

(n) Title. Unless specified elsewhere in this contract, title to items furnished under this contract shall pass to the Government upon acceptance, regardless of when or where the Government takes physical possession.

(o) Warranty. The Contractor warrants and implies that the items delivered hereunder are merchantable and fit for use for the particular purpose described in this contract.

(p) Limitation of liability. Except as otherwise provided by an express warranty, the Contractor will not be liable to the Government for consequential damages resulting from any defect or deficiencies in accepted items.

(q) Other compliances. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable Federal, State and local laws, executive orders, rules and regulations applicable to its performance under this contract.

(r) Compliance with laws unique to Government contracts. The Contractor agrees to comply with 31 U.S.C. 1352 relating to limitations on the use of appropriated funds to influence certain Federal contracts; 18 U.S.C. 431 relating to officials not to benefit; 40 U.S.C. chapter 37, Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards; 41 U.S.C. chapter 87, Kickbacks; 49 U.S.C. 40118, Fly American; and 41 U.S.C. chapter 21 relating to procurement integrity.

(s) Order of precedence. Any inconsistencies in this solicitation or contract shall be resolved by giving precedence in the following order:

(1) The schedule of supplies/services.

(2) The Assignments, Disputes, Payments, Invoice, Other Compliances, Compliance with Laws Unique to Government Contracts, and Unauthorized Obligations paragraphs of this clause;

(3) The clause at 52.212-5.

(4) Addenda to this solicitation or contract, including any license agreements for computer software.

(5) Solicitation provisions if this is a solicitation.

(6) Other paragraphs of this clause.

(7) The Standard Form 1449.

(8) Other documents, exhibits, and attachments

(9) The specification.

(t) [Reserved]

(u) Unauthorized Obligations.

(1) Except as stated in paragraph (u)(2) of this clause, when any supply or service acquired under this contract is subject to any End User License Agreement (EULA), Terms of Service (TOS), or similar legal instrument or agreement, that includes any clause requiring the Government to indemnify the Contractor or any person or entity for damages, costs, fees, or any other loss or liability that would create an Anti-Deficiency Act violation (31 U.S.C. 1341), the following shall govern:

(i) Any such clause is unenforceable against the Government.

(ii) Neither the Government nor any Government authorized end user shall be deemed to have agreed to such clause by virtue of it appearing in the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement. If the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement is invoked through an “I agree” click box or other comparable mechanism (e.g., “click-wrap” or “browse-wrap” agreements), execution does not bind the Government or any Government authorized end user to such clause.

(iii) Any such clause is deemed to be stricken from the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement.

(2) Paragraph (u)(1) of this clause does not apply to indemnification by the Government that is expressly authorized by statute and specifically authorized under applicable agency regulations and procedures.

(v) Incorporation by reference. The Contractor’s representations and certifications, including those…