70LART25RFPFB00006 TRAINING SUPPORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.docx

TRAINING SUPPORT SERVICES QUESTIONS

1. On RFP pages 131 and 132, as well as elsewhere, there are references to Section J-Attachment 1 through 55. Will FLETC provide these attachments before the due date of the Phase 1 submittal? Attachments are 1-55 on sam.gov

2. On RFP pages 139, the instructions to offerors states, “Offerors must include a completed copy of the provision at 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications - - Commercial Items, with its offer.” If an offeror has maintained their active complete, accurate and current Annual Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Bidders in Sam.gov, can the offeror merely add clause 52.204-8 (b)(2) paragraph only and acknowledge paragraph (d) applies? Answer: Follow RFP.

3. Since submittal instructions request the inclusion of Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Bidders, will this Rep & Cert response requirement be part of the 7-page limit imposed on the Phase 1 submittal? Exclude

4. On RFP pages 132, there are references to See M.2. Should each reference be M.c.?

Read section M.

5. The Wage Determination PDF provided in the RFP package does not include the labor category for Role Players. Will a modified, amended or additional WD be supplied before the due date of Phase 2 submittal to establish the WD rate for a Role Player? Answer: See recent amendment.

6. On RFP pages 59, 140, 143, and 151 the email for the Contracting Officer is shown as Nicholas.J.Antal@fletc.dhs.gov as well as Nicholas.antal@fletc.dhs.gov. Please provide the preferred email address for questions and submittal.

Answer: See amendment Nicholas.J.Antal@fletc.dhs.gov; up to each offeror to confirm receipt.

7. Please provide the current contract number [if applicable, the current contract numbers] currently support the tasking found in the 70LART25RPFB00006 RFP Training Support Services program.

Answer: HSFLAR17D00002

8. Please provide the current prime contractor [if applicable, the current prime contractors] currently support the tasking found in the 70LART25RPFB00006 RFP Training Support Services program. As available, please provide the prime contractor(s) subcontractors.

Answer: HSFLAR17D00002; Oak Grove Technologies

9. Please provide the current Historical Workload of the tasking found in the 70LART25RPFB00006 RFP Training Support Services program in terms of labor category, FTE levels of effort and applied encountered hours.

Answer: Refer to Attachment 22

10. In section C.5.1 #6 states the following “Live Streaming agency graduations. Upon request, the contractor shall provide live-streaming support of graduations or special events,” followed by #7 “as requested by the COR, film special events are estimated at five (5) two-hour sessions and four (4) eight-hour sessions.” Please answer the following questions:

a. Over the past year how many requests have been made to Live Stream agency graduations and is there seasonality to those requests?

Answer: This is a new requirement. Graduations occur on average 5 times per month.

b. How long is each agency graduation?

Answer: Most ceremonies last approximately one hour.

c. Over what time frame are the special events that are estimated at five (5) two-hour sessions and four (4) eight-hour sessions?

Answer: These can occur anytime throughout the year, two of the events occur each May (the first week), other events are when requested, approximately five to ten per year.

11. Will the current level of activity on the incumbent contract continue in the new contract? If the level of activity will change in from the incumbent contract, please provide in detail what those changes are and what subsections within Section C of the RFP.

Answer: Activity levels are dependent on student counts (number of classes and students).

12. Attachment 22, Historical Data states, “The current contract provides transportation, Firearms, . . . services not included in workload data”. Please clarify to the extent (or magnitude) of transportation which is not included in the workload data.

Answer: This is a new requirement that does not involve transportation, transportation needed for recreational events are coordinated with the COR.

13. RFP page 146 states, “For the one-hour (15-30 minutes; unless ready to present)”. RFP page 147 states, “FIRST HOUR (15- 30 minutes; unless ready to present)”. Please clarify the anticipated time frame 15 – 30. Answer: See Sections L & M.

14. Regarding FACTOR 3: COST/PRICE, the RFP page 148 states, “The price proposal shall consist of two documents: One (1) Excel .xlsx file and one (1) Adobe PDF document. The Excels provided in Amendment 0001 did not include a government- provided Price proposal Excel. Is FLETC anticipating an Offeror-created Excel to be used for Pricing this TSS effort? Answer: The offeror is responsible for proposals.

15. RFP page 146 clearly states, “The contractor shall not bring any computers, tablets, or smart phones into the caucus room, and shall not bring any electronic materials”. RFP page 147 clearly states, “It (the contractor) will also provide its prepared presentation to address its technical approach, key personnel qualifications, and Past Performance”. How can an offeror prepare and present a formal presentation (as opposed to a Face-to-Face interview) without the use of any electronic materials? Answer: Phase 2 instructions will have directions after advisory down-select. Read Sections L & M.

16. On the original SF1449, Box 10 indicates that this acquisition was unrestricted (full and open). However, Amendment 001, Box 14 indicates that the acquisition is a competitive small business set aside. Can the Government please confirm that this acquisition is a being competed as a small business set aside under NAICS 561210 ($47M size standard)? Answer: Small business

17. Section L explicitly states that Factor 1: Written Submission of Experience is only to include a narrative concerning the Offeror’s experience, further emphasizing this with the statement “ONLY EXPERIENCE SHOULD BE DISCUSSED IN THE WRITTEN SUBMISSION” (p145). However, Section L later states that “The Government will also evaluate its confidence in the offeror’s ability based on at least one (1) individual who will manage the contract performance from company headquarters or the company’s centralized office has been met” (p 146). The instructions further state that “should the offeror provide information for other technical factors during the written submission, the Government will assume the offeror does not understand the requirement…” (p 146). Can the Government please clarify their expectations for including an “individual who will manage the contract performance from company headquarters” (which would be part of a technical solution) in a section limited exclusively to prior experience? Answer: Refer to Sections L and M

18. Section L 1.2.a indicates that during the second hour of oral presentations, the contractor should “provide its prepared presentation to address its technical approach, key personnel qualifications, and past performance” (p147). However, the contractor also “shall not bring, present, or distribute any written or electronic materials” (p 147). Section C.1.7.1 Key Personnel states that “Key Personnel are those persons whose resumes were submitted for evaluation of the proposal” (p 27-28). If Factor 1 is strictly limited to experience, and the contractor shall not provide any supporting written or electronic materials during Factor 2, can the Government please clarify when Key Personnel resumes are to be submitted? Answer: After Phase 1; advisory down-select if offeror wishes to proceed notify CO. Phase II instructions would have that information on key personnel, pricing and submittals.

19. Section L 1.2.b indicates that during the Oral Presentation, the offeror’s Past Performance will be evaluated for “relevancy, currency, size, scope, and performance feedback from points-of-contact listed for the past performance references…” (p 147). Can the Government please clarify whether during Oral Presentations Offerors are able to discuss past performance and experience outside of the reference and present contracts provided during Factor 1: Written Submission of Experience? Answer: Follow directions as specified in Sections L and M.

20. Section L 1.4 Factor 3: Cost/Price provides instructions for preparing a price proposal. However, there is no guidance on when the price proposal must be submitted. Can the Government please specify a due date for Factor 3: Cost/Price? In particular, will price be required prior to or after the site visit and / or oral presentations? Answer See question 18, anticipate two weeks from phase 2 instructions. Mentioned in Multi phased procurement.

21. Offerors are in possession of the Wage Determination attachments. However, the labor categories in the PWS and Historical Data attachment are not directly correlated to Occupation Codes within the Wage Determinations. In order to ensure offerors’ price volumes accurately incorporate Wage Determination rates, can the Government provide a cross-walk of relevant LCATs and their correlating Occupation Codes? Answer: Each offeror must come up with own bid. See Historical information on positions (one must keep in mind this requirement off HSFLAR-17-D-00002).

22. Section M (Evaluation Factors for Award) appears to be copy paste of Section L (Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Bidders). Can the Government confirm that this was intentional, or will a forthcoming amendment provide additional details/clarity in either or both of these sections? Answer: See amendments Section L.

23. Attachment 22 states that 200 role players have been provided. While solicitation provides a quantity of 200 part time role players, it provides no basis of estimate for the total level of effort for role players. This would be required for any firm fixed price proposal. Can the Government provide the total level of effort for role players on an annual basis, in terms of total man hours per year, total man days per year, or other such data that would support establishing a reasonable basis of estimate?

Answer: 2024, 99,410.25 role player hours were required, an average of 8,285 hours per month.

24. The PWS requires that the on-site PM has one year of experience as a PM on federal contracts of similar size. When measuring similar size, what does the Government “similar” for number of personnel on the contract, dollar value of the contract, or other measurables?

Answer: Similar would refer to similar requirements, magnitude, size/complexity.

25. The PWS requires that the on-site PM has one year of experience as a PM on federal contracts of similar size. Will the Government consider a PM’s one year of experience on a commercial contract of similar size as equivalent or substitute for federal contracting experience?

Answer: Refer to C.1.7.2

26. The PWS requires that the on-site PM has one year of experience as a PM on federal contracts of similar size. Will the Government consider a PM’s one year of experience as a senior Government official running a training or law enforcement program/project of similar size as equivalent or substitute for federal contracting experience?

Answer: Refer to C.1.7.2

27. The PWS requires that the on-site APM has one year of experience as an APM on federal contracts of similar size. When measuring similar size, what does the Government “similar” for number of personnel on the contract, dollar value of the contract, or other measurables?

Answer: Similar would refer to similar requirements, magnitude, size/complexity.

28. The PWS requires that the on-site APM has one year of experience as an APM on federal contracts of similar size. Will the Government consider an APM’s one year of experience on a commercial contract of similar size as equivalent or substitute for federal contracting experience?

29. Answer: Refer to C.1.7.2 The PWS requires that the on-site APM has one year of experience as an APM on federal contracts of similar size. Will the Government consider an APM’s one year of experience as a senior Government official running a training or law enforcement program/project of similar size as equivalent or substitute for federal contracting experience?

Answer: Refer to C.1.7.2

30. The RFP states that the Government anticipates providing a two weeks from the date that Phase 2 instructions are provided for the due date of Phase 2 responses. This short period of time requires offerors to develop their Phase 2 proposals before being notified of Phase 1 results which is antithetical to the stated intent to “minimize proposal development costs.” Will the Government consider a Phase 2 proposal due date that is 4-6 weeks after notification of Phase 1 competitive range determination? Answer: An offeror is to focus on phase 1. Working on phase 2 while in phase 1 does not utilize offeror’s maximum resolve, as advisory down-select has not occurred. The time frame shall remain as is. See page 170 multi phased procurement.

31. During Phase 2, the Government will assess the qualifications of key personnel. What is the format for offerors to present this information for evaluation (e.g., staff bio, resume, commitment letter, all of the above)? Answer: Resume of key personnel adhering to performance work statement. This would be provided for phase 2 instructions, upon completion of phase one submittal, advisory down-select, CO notification to offeror, and offeror responding interest to proceed.

32. During orals, the Government will evaluate the qualifications of key personnel. Is this evaluation limited to the PM and APM, or will the evaluation cover other key personnel (e.g., Quality Control Technician; role player supervisor).

Answer: Key personnel are identified in C.1.7.1 . Phase 2 instructions will have this covered.

33. Can the government provide a timeframe for Factors 2 and 3, post-submission of Factor 1? For example, are offerors to provide pricing only when invited, post Factor 2? Each offeror must read the requirement and sections L and M. See question 18, 20 and 30.

34. Will there be additional time for questions and answers post submission of Factor 1? Answer: Yes, see amendments.

35. Will a pricing spreadsheet be provided for offerors to complete Factor 3? Each offeror is responsible for own submittal.

36. If a contractor has experience running this program previously, but outside the 3-year window, would the government allow the offeror to discuss this as part of Factor 1, Written Submission?

Answer: Please refer to Section L & M. This would not meet the requirements.

37. Are there labor category descriptions for the personnel listed in Attachment 22?

38. Can the government provide the labor category descriptions for the personnel responsible for the Occupational Safety and Health Management and Environmental Services tasks?

Answer: It is up to each offeror on submitting proposal.

39. What are the exact labor categories and qualifications and FTE requirements for each position (Role Players, contract personnel supporting Part-Time, Equipment Issue, Training Support, Classroom Setup… etc.)

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, the Government does not determine staffing requirements/needs. Staff shall be able to meet/complete requirements identified in C.7, C.3, C.5…etc.

40. What is the estimated staffing level required for each service area? Can the government provide an estimated range of hours per position per year or historical data?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, the Government does not determine staffing requirements/needs.

41. Is there a historic peak demand for personnel during the year (e.g., role players, equipment handlers, training support personnel)?

Answer: No, training occurs everyday with the exception of Holidays.

42. Are all part-time, Equipment Issue, Training Support, Classroom Setup positions required to be full-time (40 hours/week), or is there flexibility for part-time/on-call staffing?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, the Government does not determine staffing requirements/needs.

43. Will the scenarios change frequently, or will there be a standard set of role-playing situations?

Answer: Scenario’s are standard, but will change if standards change or safety concerns arise. Most agencies review every two years, some may change more frequently.

44. Are there specialized role player needs (e.g., foreign language speakers, actors with law enforcement experience.

Answer: Refer to C.7.2 regarding foreign language speakers. Law Enforcement experience is not required, physical requirements and script based speaking and role play.

45. Is there a government-provided excel pricing template that will be released with instructions for phase two, or will contractors need to create one? Answer: Each offeror is responsible for proposal.

46. Are cost-reimbursable elements included in the contract (e.g., travel, Other Direct Costs, Material).

Answer: Each offeror is responsible for proposal. Please read performance work statement.

47. If there are cost-reimbursable elements included in the contract will the government provide a plug number?

48. Answer: Each offeror is responsible for proposal. Please read performance work statement and C.8.

49. Can the government provide the attachments listed in section J of the RFP? Answer: All attachments are on sam.gov see 1-53.

50. Will all contractor personnel have a place to work on location at FLETC, including having a table/desk and chair or will contractor need to procure space near the contract location?

Answer: Refer to C.1.4

51. How many desk and chair locations are available for Offeror’s use at each work site?

Answer: The Government will furnish a desk and chair for each computer (C.1.4), other ancillary furnishings are contractor provided.

52. How many Full Time Equivalent positions does the government expect in each support category?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, Government does not determine staffing levels. Each offeror is responsible for proposal and due diligence.

53. Can the government provide historical data for hours by position?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, contractors are required to staff as needed to meet the requirement.

54. How would the government like contractors to price overtime considering the FFP nature of the pricing document? INTERNAL: The RFP provides a formula for Uncompensated Overtime. The government expects the Offeror to estimate the hours required and build the price from that information.

Answer: Clins: 0008AA and 0008AC (supplemental years) have hours there, up to offeror on putting amount on there.

55. Will there be another opportunity for questions between phase one and phase two of the proposal process? Answer: Questions and Answers have passed.

56. Can the contractor provide two PMs rather than one in order to better support the 24/7 on call requirement in light of SCA regulations?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, the Government does not determine staffing levels. Refer to C.1.7, C.1.7.1, and C.1.7.2

57. Does the government have a plug value that Offerors can use for pricing travel costs? Answer: It is up to each offeror to determine their pricing strategy.

58. Do all employees require completion of the SF85P (Tier 2 for Public Trust) or just those with network/email access?

Answer: Currently only those with network/email access.

59. Since Tier 2 background check can be for Public Trust or Secret clearance, are there any positions that require a security clearance, and if so, what positions?

Answer: Not at this time.

60. Will the Government provide all cleaning supplies specifically vacuums, brooms, dustpans, mops, cleaning cloths/towel, cleaning chemical supplies?

Answer: No, refer to C.1.4. Government will provide cleaning of shared space, lobbies, and restrooms.

61. Can the Government elaborate on the historical data for the quantity of Role Players and/or Role Player hours by month for the previous 2 years? As the CLINs are billed monthly as Firm Fixed Price, this will enable all offerors to propose values that will directly support the Governments requirements.

Answer: Answer: 2024, 99,410.25 role player hours were required, an average of 8,285 hours per month. Role Players are based on clin rates and Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) amounts as they can vary.

62. Is it the Governments intention to express the historical data for the Educational Aids as (1)x Full Time Equivalent and (1)x Part Time Equivalent as the document records this position as Educational Aids 1.5”?

Answer: This is a performance-based contract, the Government does not determine staffing levels. This is the historical staffing level provided to meet the requirement (Refer to C.6.1)

63. Can the Government provide a quantity by type list of the Contractor Furnished Property (CFP), specifically, collateral office furniture and equipment such as desks, file cabinets, calculators computers, typewriters, copy machines, consumables and general office supplies? Answer: This information is not available and is not tracked by the Government.

64. What is the exact frequency required for recurring quality control inspections, and what are the measurable performance metrics (e.g., maximum allowable defect rate) the QC Plan must achieve?

Answer: Refer to C.2.1.2 and Section E

65. The PWS requires 85% operational readiness for all equipment groups. How is “operational” defined (e.g., per manufacturer specifications,), and what is the maximum allowable downtime (in hours/days per month) for defective units in any equipment group?

Answer: Per manufacturer specifications or safety requirements/concerns. Repair/Replacements should be enacted prior to the exceeding the 85% operational readiness

66. What specific deliverables and measurable milestones are expected during the two-week phase-in period particularly concerning inventory reconciliation and schedule updates? Refer to C.1.8.1.

67. Page 30, CLIN 0001 is incorrectly listed here. This should be CLIN 0008.

Answer: See Amendment

68. What is the Government’s experience for reciprocity of clearances and background checks for former and active federal employees or military service members.

Answer: Refer to C.2.4, and H.29, all backgrounds can take up to thirty days, regardless of prior clearances and background checks.

69. Amendment 0003, page 1 of 13 states," Clin xxx7 and 0008 AA/AC IDIQ items. Read Multi phased Procurement (date timelines) Period of Performance: 07/01/2025 to 09/30/2025". Please clarify the term: Read Multi phased Procurement (date timelines).

Answer: Refer to page 170, multi phased procurement.

70. Amendment 0003 (Pages 2 to 13 of 13) provides the CLINs price Schedule form. Beyond proving our Phase 2 pricing on this A0003 Schedule, do offerors as well need to complete the CLIN contract year table found on the Amendment 0003 Clauses and Provisions Word document presented in Section B - Supplies or Services/Prices and Prices/Costs Schedule found on pages 20 and 21?

Answer: Please utilize the most current revision as the period of performance is current.

71. For the Base year, CLIN 0002 addresses Issue support in accordance with C.3.1/2/3 and CLIN 0008AA does the same as is limited to 100 hours. Similarly, CLIN 0004 address Training Support in accordance with C.5 as does CLIN 0008AC limited to 100 hours. This occurs for all of the Option years as well. What are the distinctions between X002 & X0008AA and X004 compared to X008AC?

Answer: AA and AC are for possible overtime hours.

72. The Amendment 0003 Clauses and Provisions Word document states and describes on page 29 states,” C.1.8.1 Phase-In (CLIN 0001) A phase-in period is required…”. Since CLIN 0001 is now Project Management, where are offerors to price a Phase-In?

Answer: Refer to B schedule (page 19), phase in under CLIN 0008 (two week phase in).

73. Regarding the CLINs X008, can you please clarify :

a. The intent and pricing methods of 0008AA and 0008AC?

Answer: These are to cover hours that are unscheduled due to training delays/cancellations that may result in overtime (if applicable).

b. What effort is associated with the 200 total hours of 0008 that is not included in CLINs 0002 and 0004?

Answer: Two weeks

c. What is the intent of the same 200-hour Issue and Training support for all of the Option Years?

Answer: These are to cover hours that are unscheduled due to training delays/cancellations that may result in overtime (if applicable).

74. The release of Amendment 0003 contains both well-defined, high impact level and subtle changes to the Phase 1 and Phase 2 submittals throughout the pages of the Clauses and Provisions Word document when compared to the original RFP. Numerous changes have minor and major impact to notes, instruction and qualifications. Can FLETC provide a Track Change version of the new RFP for offerors to allow total and faster analysis and modification due to the Amendment 0003 changes.

Answer: No, it is up to the offeror to review the amendments and changes in the document, which the amendments specify. Reviews are required by the prospective vendors.

75. Amendment 0003 Clauses and Provisions Word document, at bottom of page 159, (b) Submission of offers states, as a minimum, offers must show—eleven items among other data that includes technical description, warranty, price, etc. Is it correct to assume that this instruction is not applicable to the Phase 1 (Step 1, Factor 1 – Written Submission of Experience) submittal?

Answer: Each offeror must read Sections L and M and recent amendments.

76. The historical data (Attachment 22) listed workload FTEs data as well as sampling list of supplies and materials. The Pricing/CLIN table shows CLINs x001 to x006 as 12 equal monthly firm fixed price amounts. Would the Government please confirm that CLINs x001 to x006 will ONLY cover the labor requirements for those respective SOW tasks, and all supplies and materials will be covered under CLIN x0007? If non-labor pricing is to be included as part of CLINs x001 to x006, would the Government please be specific about their expectations for each CLIN?

Answer: Please refer to C.1 regarding all personnel, equipment, materials, etc.. Please refer to C.2.3.2 regarding CLIN 0007. It is up to each offeror on submitting a proposal.

77. The historical data (Attachment 22) shared that "the current contract provides transportation, Firearms, Vehicle Maintenance, and Driver Training support services not included in workload data". Would the Government please confirm that these requirements are NOT part of the current solicitation? If any of these areas are supposed to be part of the current solicitation, please provide applicable details so pricing can be included; The Government will also need to specify where the pricing will be included in the current CLIN structure.

Answer: No, this is a new requirement, coordination for transportation, weapons, or vehicles/maintenance are coordinated through COR(s).

78. Section 10 of the SF Form states that this acquisition is "UNRESTRICTED". Classification in SAM states that Original Set Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5). The RFP document and the SAM classification appear to contradict each other. Could you please clarify whether this procurement is unrestricted or a Total Small Business Set-Aside? Answer: See question 16.

79. RFP Document Option 4 - CLIN 4006. What does "Base" (under Description) refer to (4006 Role Player Base)? Answer: See amendment.

80. RFP Document - C.7.3 Role Player Requirements states "NOTE: Paragraph e shall not apply to full-time role players if the Contractor utilizes full-time staff." Did the Government mean Paragraph 6 and not e? If no, please provide correct paragraph reference. Answer: See Amendment.

81. Can the Government please provide all the Section J attachments? Answer: See question 1.

82. The DOL Wage Determination provided by the Government does not have a wage category for Role Players. Section C.7.3 Role Player Requirements states that role players will be "paid for half of the hours originally scheduled (unless they can report for other roles during that scheduled time) in accordance with the SCA Area Wage Determination."

a. Is this position conformed?

b. If yes, please provide a copy of the conformed DOL Wage Determination. Answer: See amendment

83. RFP Document C.7.2 Requirements states "Requirements may necessitate simultaneous performance of role-player services at multiple locations (not just at the FLETC training facilities). All requirements will be within a 100-mile radius of Artesia, New Mexico." and "Immediately after being released by the instructors, the role players shall return to the Contractor's office to sign out."

For Role Player requirements at locations "other than on a FLETC training facility" (within a 100-mile radius of Artesia, New Mexico), please confirm:

a. Whether the Government will provide transportation for Role Players to and from those locations.

Answer: No

b. Whether Role Players will be paid for time spent traveling to the location and returning to the Contractor's office to sign out.

Answer: No

84. RFP Document Section B states "The price for each performance period has been split into Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) CLINs and Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) CLINs. The quantities shown for IDIQ CLINs are considered maximum quantities. The minimum quantity requirement will be fulfilled through the FFP CLINs." However, the current Section B only lists FFP CLINs and lacks any IDIQ CLINs or maximum quantities. Please clarify which services will be compensated under IDIQ CLINs and which are included in the FFP CLINs.

Answer: Refer to Section B. 0001, 0002, 0003, 0004, 0005, 0008 (phase in). IDIQ clins: 0006 (15 minute; 1 hour interval), 0008AA, and 0008AC. Role players as mentioned in performance work statement, up to contractor on staffing resolutions.

85. FACTOR 3: COST/PRICE states that "The prices being evaluated include the base period, all options, and the unit prices for Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) CLINs." Section B of the solicitation does not have any Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) CLINs. Can the Government please identify the IDIQ CLINS and update section B?

Answer: See 85.

86. FACTOR 3: COST/PRICE states "If audited company financial statements are not available, the Chief Financial Officer shall provide a formal statement attesting to the accuracy of the financial information provided." If an Offeror does not currently have a CFO, can an executive with equivalent financial oversight and authority provide this statement? For example, would a Chief Executive Officer or a Chief Revenue Officer be acceptable?

Answer: Company Financial Statements or Chief Financial Officer needed.

87. RFP Document states "Offeror’s Representations and Certifications [FAR 52.212-3 clause shall be filled in or statement that all representations and certifications are listed in System for Award Management (SAM)] are to be submitted with Phase 1." Is the 'Offeror's Representations and Certifications' (FAR 52.212-3) required in the Phase 1 submission, and is it excluded from the 7-page limit?

Answer: Excluded from 7 page limit.

88. Factor 1: Written Submission of Experience states the following "Submission is limited to seven (7) pages" and "All tables, exhibits, etc., are to be included in the six-count page limit." Please clarify whether the correct page limit for Phase 1 is six or seven pages.

Answer: Seven pages.

89. Section C.3.4 Sports Drink of the Training Support Services RFP states "Sports drinks and cups are contractor-provided." Section C.5.4 Sports Drink of the Student Support Services RFP (70LART25RPFB00005)RFP states that "Sports drinks are contractor provided. Cups are Government reimbursed." Why are cups for sports drinks government-reimbursed in one RFP, but contractor-provided in the other RFP? Please clarify the discrepancy.

Answer: Training Support Services is correct as is.

90. Section C.1.2 Projected Workload states "The Contractor is responsible for supporting any Government changes to the class schedule at no additional cost." Please clarify the scope of "no additional cost." Specifically, does this apply only to changes made with at least five days' notice, as per the Contractor's required advance notice?

Answer: Refer C.1.2

91. Section C.1 ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION states "The Contractor shall provide an on-site qualified contract manager (Project Manager) from 0700 to 1700 Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, who will also be on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week [...]" Section C.1.7.2 Project Management states "The Project Manager and Alternate Project Manager shall be always on-call and available when not on duty."

Sections C.1 and C.1.7.2 appear to present a potential ambiguity regarding on-call requirements. Please clarify if the Government requires both PM and APM to be on-call simultaneously outside of the scheduled working hours, or if the intent is for either the Project Manager or Alternate Project Manager to be available.

Answer: Refer C.1 and C.1.7.2. both available.

92. Section C.1.7.2 Project Management states "Project Management staff shall not serve multiples positions and be compensated for all positions." Please clarify how the Government will adjust the contractors FFP Project Management CLINS?

Answer: Refer to 1.7.1

93. Section C.1.7.1 Key Personnel states "NOTE: The contractor shall structure his workforce to the level of work stated in these specifications." Section C.1.8 Specifications states that "Furthermore, as this is a performance specification, and the Government will measure the result and not the effort or level of effort."

Sections C.1.7.1 and C.1.8 appear to present conflicting guidance. Please provide clarification on whether the contract is intended to be level-of-effort or performance-based.

Answer: This is a performance based contract. Refer to C.1.7.1 and C.1.8.

94. Section C.1.8 Specifications states that "Performance specifications describe the service and provide the Contractor with the service's quantities, limits, or areas. The Contractor shall be responsible for achieving the results described in the specification. Furthermore, as this is a performance specification, and the Government will measure the result and not the effort or level of effort, there is no required answer or preferred approach regarding staffing levels. Offerors are free to propose staffing levels as they see fit to take advantage of efficiencies and different techniques."

If the Prime, during contract performance, determines to merge the Quality Control (QC) and Alternate Project Manager (APM) roles into a single position, leading to increased efficiency without any detriment to the contracted services, would the Government then reduce compensation (see questions above) based on the reduced staffing? This seems to conflict with the stated intent of a performance-based contract, where the Government should not dictate or penalize efficient staffing decisions that achieve the required results. where staffing levels are left to the Contractor's discretion to achieve the required performance.

Answer: Refer to C.1.7.1 and C.1.7.3.

95. Please confirm if Section C.3.5, Mat Room/Training Venue Support, is a new requirement for the FLETC Artesia STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES contract. Additionally, please provide historical usage data for this section and a copy of Attachment 48.

Answer: This is a new requirement, historical information is not available.

96. Please confirm that all transportation costs (drivers and vehicles: vans, buses, etc.) related to C.4.2 Recreation Outings/Transportation outings are the sole responsibility of the Transportation Services contractor and are at no cost to the Training Support Services contractor.

Answer: Correct, coordination is the only requirement.

97. Section C.4.2 Recreation Outings/Transportation states that "The driver can change times within the day to accommodate students’ desires but cannot exceed the total number of hours per day. Any changes of times during a recreation outing and the reason for the change shall be noted by the Contractor and provided to the COR." Drivers responsibilities do not fall under the Training Support Services contract. Are the drivers to inform the Recreation Specialist/Event Coordinator of these changes?

Answer: Drivers should report to their PMO and COR of any changes that occurred. COR will share this information with the Training Support Contractor.

98. Section C.7.2 Requirements states "All vehicles shall be maintained in a safe operating and presentable condition." Please clarify whether the Training Support Services contractor is responsible for the safe operating condition of the vehicles, or if the Government or another contractor is responsible for maintenance.

Answer: Another contractor shall be responsible for routine maintenance and repair.

99. Section C.7.3 Role Player Requirements states that "The Contractor’s monthly invoice will be deducted in fifteen-minute increments for any exercise delays due to role players not being available to participate in a scheduled scenario. An increment is defined as 1-15 minutes and equals’ one (1) increment (15-minute deduction); 16-30 minutes and equals two (2) increments (30-minute deduction) per role player delayed, etc..…" If a role player is scheduled for one hour and fails to appear, resulting in no billable time, will the Contractor also be penalized by a deduction of four (4) increments, equivalent to one hour's pay as per the SCA Area Wage Determination, in addition to the lost billable hour?

Answer: Contractor will only invoice for actual hours worked, times are for delay/late arrivals for invoicing purposes.

100. The solicitation, on page 124, states that "Key personnel shall meet the requirements outlined under provisions within Section C.6." Section C.6 pertains to 'EDUCATIONAL AIDE SUPPORT' which seems incorrect. Could you please clarify the accurate section detailing key personnel qualifications?

Answer: C.1.7

101. Regarding the Key Personnel Requirements, please clarify the following:

(1) Incumbent Personnel Qualifications:

Do the incumbent's personnel currently possess the listed minimum qualifications (skill level, training, certifications, and/or experience)?

If not, are personnel who are rebadged by the winning offeror exempt from these minimum requirements? Specifically, are they "grandfathered" based on their tenure?

If the qualifications previously required under the prior contract and negotiated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) differ from the current requirements, are personnel who met the prior qualifications exempt from the new requirements?

Answer: Refer to C.1.7.2

102. Please confirm whether the workforce supporting the Student Support Services contract has voted to unionize, and how this would affect Training Support. Additionally, is a Union or Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) currently in effect for this contract? If a CBA is not currently in effect, please provide the current status of CBA negotiations or implementation.

Answer: Currently, there is no official Collective Bargaining Agreement in place, hence wage determinations (service contract act Eddy County provided). While there are talks between incumbent and union (IUOE LOCAL 953). The Government does not involve itself in contract and union matters (a vote has occurred in the past). If a CBA takes place the offerors will be notified and amended. It is up to each offeror on their proposal and due diligence.

103. Will the Government consider allowing an additional round of questions after offerors have received the documents/attachments and reviewed the initial Q&A response.

Answer: Question and Answers have already been resolved. Each offeror has had considerable time. The Government reserves the right for additional Q&A, however may not consider it at discretion.

104. Request that the due date for submission of proposals be extended until such time as all questions can be asked and answered allowing bidders at least 30 days from the government’s response to finalize and submit their proposals.

Answer: See Amendments.

105. Please confirm whether this is a Performance Based contract.

Answer: Yes, this is Performance Based.

106. In Section C.3 Training Equipment and Uniform Issue, there is no mention about what supplies will be government supplied; laundry soap, CPR dummy cleaning supplies, equipment cleaners, etc. or what types of cleaners will be required to be used.

Answer: Refer to C.1.5 and Attachments 23.

107. Section C.3 it mentions that ninety percent of weapons shall be operational, what weapons are used at PT Issue? Will this require coordination with the armory which is under a different contract?

Answer: NLTA (Air Soft), Tasers, batons, etc…, NLTA weapons will require coordination with another contractor.

108. Is the government provided automated inventory system referred to in Section C.3.1 #5, currently in use by the incumbent or is this a new system?

Answer: There is no automated inventory system in use.

109. Section C.3.3 it mentions that ninety percent of weapons shall be operational, what weapons are used at PT Issue? Will this require coordination with the armory which is under a different contract Answer: Refer to response for question #107.

110. Section 3.3 #5, will it be the responsibility of the Training Support contractor to provide armorers to clean, repair, and maintain these weapons? Will these weapons be listed on the Training Support contractor's inventory list?

Answer: No, armorers will be on Student Support. Weapons will be hand receipted to Training Support.

111. Section 3.3 #7, Is there a system in place that will be used for the Training Support contractor to determine what types and amounts of ammo are needed for training? Will the Training Support contractor be responsible for picking up ammo requests from the armory?

Answer: SASS will note ammunition requirements, coordination for delivery shall be made with Student Support Contract.

112. Section 3.3 #16, Is this a separate 400 sets of such equipment than the 400 sets of equipment listed in section C..3.2? For a total of 800 sets?

Answer: The total is 400 sets.

113. Section C.4.2, How will the contractor coordinate with the transportation contractor one week in advance if sign-ups and cancellations will be determined on Friday afternoons?

Answer: The request for transportation shall be made one week in advance, cancellations shall be communicated to the COR and Transportation Contractor by 1000 Friday mornings.

114. Section C.5.1 # 9, What type of electronic equipment will be expected to be repaired? Will all of the tools and parts needed to repair that equipment be provided by the contractor?

Answer: TV’s, DVD players. Repairs would be via SCWR, refer to C.2.3.2.1 and C.8.

115. Section C.7.2 Note 2, If full time role players are used, will their work hours be recorded separately from part time role players? Will there be ID/IQ clines for part time RP hours? Will there be a separate SCWR clin if full time RPs are used enough to require OT due to increased ordering? Will full time RPs need to be reported on a separate work schedule so their hours are not reflected on the delivery order for the ID/IQ hours?

Answer: Refer Amendments. It is up to each offeror on submitting proposal and staffing.

116. Section 7.2, regarding the 16-hour government provided training, If the government fails to provide this training for new hire personnel or existing personnel, will the contractor be held liable for shortages caused by not being able to utilize personnel that are awaiting the governments training?

Answer: Refer to 7.2.

117. Section 3.7.3 #5, What portion of the SCA Wage Determination dictates any guidelines regarding scheduled work cancellations?

Answer: Refer Amendments.

118. Section 3.7.3 #5, Where is section "C . 7. 4 c" This section goes from C . 7 . 3 to C . 7 . 5.

Answer: Miss numbered.

119. Section 3.7.3 #6, If the scenario is on main campus, and the car needs to be fueled on west campus, in what order should they either; return to the Contractors office, turn in props and gear, fuel the car, and then return the car to its designated location?

Or if the scenario is on west campus, do they need to return to the contractors office on main campus, drop off props and sign out, then return to west campus to fuel the car, and then return the car back to main campus?

Answer: Government expects efficient operation of this contract effort.

120. Section 3.7.3 Note after #5, Where is paragraph e?

Answer: Refer Amendment 3, March 12, 2025 Clauses and Provisions.

121. Section C.7.5, Will there be compensation for the 15 minute early arrival if they are reassigned to another scenario where they can be utilized?

Answer: The reassigned role player would be compensated the 15 minutes.

122. Section 3.7.5, If the role players are only to be paid for actual hours worked after an early dismissal, will the time spent being utilized in support in the role player area via script study, etc., count as actual hours worked?

Example, 4 hour scenario, dismissed after 2.5 hours, studies scripts for 1.5 hours, role player is paid for 4 hours.

Answer: No.

123. 1.1, Factor 1: Written Submission, Does a "front and back" page count as one page or two pages? Answer: Example 7- page submittal is 7 pages. No front and back.

124. 1.2, Factor 2: Oral Presentations, Does the government have a tentative timeframe between Phase 1 and Phase 2 - how long will the contractor have to prepare for the Oral presentation? Answer: See amendments, See question 20 Multi phased procurement.

125. 1.2, Factor 2: Oral Presentations, "There are no more than three (3) presenters with at least two (2) of the presenters being current employees and at least one (1) person being proposed to fill a key personnel position." Can the contractor use the same personnel across multiple solicitations [Student Support, Training Support, Transportation]? Answer: Please read Sections L and M.

126. Section C.1.7 Key Personnel, For Contractors responding to multiple solicitations [Student Support, Training Support, Transportation], can we put the same Key Personnel/Resumes in each solicitation? Answer: Each offeror would need to read the PWS and requirements for each requirement.

127. Scope of Services: Can the Government clarify if there are any modifications to the scope of services compared to the current contract?

Answer: Previous contract has been in use for base and option years HSFLAR-17-D-00002. It is up to each offeror to read the requirement and performance work statement.

128. Service Level Expectations: Are there any new service-level expectations (KPIs, SLAs, reporting requirements, penalties for non-compliance, etc.) that differ from the incumbent contract?

Answer: Offeror would need to read the requirement and Performance Work Statement and QASP.

129. Labor Categories and Staffing Levels: Does the Government anticipate modifications to labor categories, staffing levels, or specific personnel requirements from the previous contract?

Answer: This is a different requirement from previous contract, please read full requirement for task identifications. It would be up to the offeror to determine staffing levels are needed for the Request for Proposal

130. Past Performance: How will the Government weigh incumbent past performance compared to new offerors?

Answer: See Sections L and M

131. Key Personnel Requirements: Will key personnel resumes be required as part of the proposal submission? If so, could the Government clarify specific qualifications or certifications that will be prioritized?

Answer: This would be required under phase II instructions, please read Performance Work Statement (PWS).

132. Reporting and Compliance Requirements: Are there specific reporting or compliance requirements that differ significantly from those under the incumbent contract?

Answer: Offeror would need to read the requirement and Performance Work Statement.