Amendment_0001.pdf

(x)

89503118RWA000001

x x

1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted ; or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT

THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted , such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

x

PHOENIX AZ 85005-6457

DSW

PO BOX 6457

DESERT SOUTHWEST REGIONAL OFFICE

US DOE/WESTERN AREA POWER

WAPA (DSW)

07/13/20180001

13. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS. IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required) is not extended.is extended, Items 8 and 15, and returning

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended , by one of the following methods: (a) By completing

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

FACILITY CODE CODE

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., street, county, State and ZIP Code)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)CODE 6. ISSUED BY

PAGE OF PAGES

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.3. EFFECTIVE DATE2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

06/11/2018

CHECK ONE A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority) appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return __________________ copies to the issuing office.

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

See continuation pages.

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

15C. DATE SIGNED 16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 16C. DATE SIGNED

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

Susan M. Ethridge

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

NSN 7540-01-152-8070

Previous edition unusable

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9 A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect .

07/13/2018 Signature on File

Solicitation 89503118RWA000001 Amendment 0001

This Amendment incorporates the following information:

A. Attachment A, the Performance Work Statement (PWS) is hereby replaced with the attached Performance Work Statement. Changes include the removal of positions related to Section 3.10 and 3.11, and increases the positions related to Section 3.9 to seven. Changes also reflect any mentioned revisions as noted in the below answers.

B. The following documents have been included with this Amendment, Attachment A-2 Heavy Equipment List for DOE Mechanic, WAPA-O-440.1B, and WAPA-O-5501B.

C. Solicitation Page 13, Clause 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires. (May 2014) is replaced with the attached revised page.

D. Below are responses to questions received related to Solicitation 89503118RWA000001.

Q1: Can you please let me know if these services are currently being performed by a contractor? If so, could you please provide the incumbent name as well as the contract number?

A1: The incumbent is Northstar Technology Corp, Contract Numbers are DE-WA0000212 and

89503118FWA400031.

Q2: Can you confirm if the correct Incumbent contract for this requirement is contract # DEWA000212 which has expired in July 2017. Am I also correct that there’s a bridge contract for this one under contract # 89503118FWA400031, services provided by Northstar?

A2: Current Bridge Contract, # 89503118FWA400031 with Northstar Technology has a period performance of 01 Feb 2018 to 31 July 2018. The previous contract DE-WA000212 Expired 31 Jan 2018.

Q3: The solicitation states, it’s designated as a 100% 8(a) Small Business set-aside”. Does the 100%” reference limit/restrict or otherwise eliminate joint venture opportunities (in accordance with FAR) under this solicitation? In other words would small business “joint ventures” or “mentor-protégé” arrangements [with at least one party being 8(a)] qualify for this solicitation?

A3: No, as long as the agreement complies with the FAR and SBA requirements.

Q4: If there is an incumbent contractor currently performing these services or if this is a new requirement. If there is an incumbent, could you please provide the contract number?

A4: See answers above.

Q5: Is there any likelihood of the contract winner being involved in acquisition advisory activities that would preclude them from pursuing other contracts with WAPA, such as product buys or other service requirements?

A5: WAPA DSW is not aware of any restrictions at this time.

Q6: Reference the PWS Page 2, Section 1.5.3 “Hours of Operation/Place of Performance” some specific tasks may require overnight travel on a normal basis and may also include overtime requirements.” Are both Travel and Overtime direct reimbursements?

A6: Yes when authorized in advance.

Q7: Reference PWS Page 8, Section 1.5.13 “Use of Government Owned Vehicle (GOV) if required”

The Engineering Technician VI positions are identified as required a valid government issued driver's license. Are these the positions that will be expected to drive the Government vehicle?

Are they the only 2 positions using GOVs?

A7: Yes and other positions may require the use of GOVs such as positions 3.8, 3.9 and 3.18.

Q8: PWS Page 20 and 21, Section 3.10 and 3.11 “Drafter/CAD Operator V and VI” States that there is one position. However, the WD does not include a level V for Drafter CAD operator. Are these exempt positions?

A8: Sections 3.10 and 3.11 have been removed and two additional positions have been added to

Section 3.9.

Q9: PWS Page 25, Sections 3.13.2 and 3.16.1 “Construction Inspection Support and Transmission

Lines and Substation Utility Foresters” Contractor required to furnish reliable ruggedized 4-wheel drive vehicle. Can WAPA/DSW provide make/model of currently used vehicle? Can picture of current vehicle be provided? Are 2 vehicles required?

A9: Actually for clarification purposes the following positions require a contractor furnished vehicle, 3.13.2, 3.15, 3.16 and 3.17 for a total of 9 vehicles. The make and model of the current contractor’s vehicle vary. But generally heavy duty trucks are used for western activity such as a F250, 2500 HD, etc.

Q10: PWS Page 4, Sections 1.5.4.F “Special qualifications, F. Substitution of Employees” “the

Contractor shall ensure a qualified substitute/replacement employee is provided within ten (10) business days after being notified of the employee’s actions.” It’s our understanding that the WAPA security background check can take 3-6 weeks to complete. Therefore, it would be unlikely that an individual could be hired and On-Site within 10 business days. Therefore, does this statement in the PWS mean the replacement employee should be identified and approved within 10 business days?

A10: The intent is to ensure the contractor has selected and offered a favorable candidate and submitted the necessary security paperwork in a timely matter. This would include ensuing the offered candidate follows up with any security related questions within a timely matter. If the replacement employee and contractor do all that’s required as expeditiously as possible any delays related to security background checks cannot be avoided.

Q11: Solicitation Page 50, FAR 52.222.46(b) “Evaluation of Compensation for Professional

Employees” "Additionally, proposals envisioning compensation levels lower than those of predecessor contractors for the same work will be evaluated on the basis of maintaining program continuity, uninterrupted high-quality work, and availability of required competent professional service employees. “Will WAPA be providing predecessors compensation rates? Will the government provide years in service for each of the current employees?

A11: The predecessor’s compensation rates cannot be release by the Government. This information is considered source sensitive. However the years in service at WAPA for each employee may be provided.

Q12: Reference Solicitation Page 30, FAR 52.212.1 (c) Instruction to Offerors - Period of acceptance of offers” offeror agrees to hold the prices in its offer firm for 30 calendar days from date specified for receipt of offers.” However, WES-L-1004 (4) (page 52) states offeror shall make pricing and terms valid for a minimum of 90 calendar days from solicitation closing date. Please clarify.

A12: Provision WES-L-1004 (4) amended FAR 52.212.1 (c), 90 calendar days is correct.

Q13: Solicitation Page 32, FAR 52.212.1 (j) Instruction to Offerors - Commercial Offers Unique

Entity Identifier - Is this the CAGE Code?

A13: Yes

Q14: Solicitation Page 53, 6.b.i (a) Instructions to offerors Volume II “The narrative shall not exceed fifteen (15) double sided pages.” Does this mean thirty (30) full pages total?

A14: 15 each 8 ½ x 11 Pages is the maximum, printed single or double sided.

Q15: Solicitation Page 53, 6b.ii, Past Performance Submission List of References (for the offeror and any proposed major subcontractor) that will submit completed past performance questionnaires to the Government. What constitutes a “major subcontractor”?

A15: Any proposed subcontractor that would perform a major or sufficient effort to ensure success of the contract performance.

Q16: Wage Determinations are included for various counties. Can WAPA/DSW identify which positions are located in each county and state?

A16: The majority of positions work directly out of Maricopa County at the main DSW office.

However there are some instances when a position may be dispatched to other locations for site visits or longer periods as deemed necessary. The only positions working in other locations than Maricopa County are Positions 3.8, Coconino County, AZ and 3.9, Clark County Nevada.

Q17: Will CPARs be accepted in lieu of past performance questionnaires?

Reference: 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Items (OCT 2014): Technical – Past

Performance. “The offeror and any proposed subcontractor(s) will be required to submit a minimum of three and a maximum of five references for the Past Performance Questionnaires as instructed in Provision 52.212-1 of the solicitation.” (p. 34)

A17: Past Performance questionnaires are required by the solicitation provisions.

Q18: Are 3-5 past performance references required each for the prime and any subcontractors, or 3-5 references total? Reference: 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Items (OCT 2014): Technical – Past Performance. “The offeror and any proposed subcontractor(s) will be required to submit a minimum of three and a maximum of five references for the Past Performance Questionnaires as instructed in Provision 52.212-1 of the solicitation.” (p. 34)

A18: Past performance questionnaires are required for the prime and any major subcontractor.

Q19: When does the Government anticipate releasing to questions received by the preproposal conference due date of June 22? Reference: DOE-L-PREBID/PREPROPOSAL CONFERENCE (OCT 2015): “All questions and answers including those not answered at the conference will be provided via https://www.fbo.gov/.” (p. 51)

A19: As quickly as possible.

Q20: When does the Government anticipate releasing answers to questions received by the July 17 questions due date? Reference: WES-L-1012 QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE

SOLICITATION (WAPA, MAR 2002)

A20: As quickly as possible.

Q21: For Joint Venture offerors, will the Government consider Past Performance references from the individual JV members, or only references for contracts performed by the JV itself?

Reference: WES-L-1004 ADDENDUM TO FAR 52-212.1, INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

– COMMERCIAL ITEMS (WAPA, JAN 2012) – Joint Venture Agreements: “Joint Ventures are allowable on competitive 8(a) set-asides, however, the joint venture agreement must be received by the SBA prior to proposal due date and approved before award of any resulting contract.” (p. 53)

A21: Past performance questionnaires for member may be considered.

Q22: Will there be a webinar component of the prebid/preproposal conference?

Reference: DOE-L-PREBID/PREPROPOSAL CONFERENCE (OCT 2015) (p. 51)

A22: No.

Q23: 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services – Please provide a period of time within which the contracting officer may exercise the option but allows the contractor enough advanced notification to transition staff if required. We suggest 30 days.

A23: The Clause states the contracting officer may exercise the option by written notice to the

Contractor within the term of the contract.

Q24: WES—L-1004 Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 (page 52) 2. States, “Proposal and supplemental information should not be bound (e.g., wire, thermal, coil).” Is it ok to use 3 ring binders that can be opened and closed with tabs to organize the proposal?

A24: Yes

Q25: WES—L-1004 Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 (page 53) 6. B. Volume II ii. Past Performance

Submission: (a) List of references, is there a page limit for each to the references listed including the e. description of work performed?

A25: Please refer WES-L-1004 Page (page 54), there is no page limit, but the intent is to provide the information requested along with a completed Attachment E Past Performance Questionnaire.

Q26: PWS 1.5.3 “some specific tasks may require overnight travel on a normal basis and may also include overtime requirements.” Will these trips and overtime expenses all be billable under CLIN X0002 overtime/Travel/Training Expenses? If not please provide the number of trips and OT hours to be included in the proposal. Please include Historical data if possible.

A26: Such tasks will be reimbursable based on the terms and conditions of the solicitation when approved in advance.

Q27: PWS 1.5.5 “the contractors PM shall submit a master employee work schedule to the CO and COR within five (5) days after contractor award.” This conflicts with FAR 52.222-17 Nondisplacment of Qualified Workers (solicitation page 9), Section (b) (2) (i) The successor Contractor and its subcontractors shall make a bona fide express offer of employment to each service employee as provided herein and shall state the time within which the service employee must accept such offer, but in no case shall the period within which the service employee must accept the offer of employment be less than 10 days.

How can we provide a master work schedule within 5 days of award if we are required to give qualified incumbent personnel a min9imum of 10 days to consider employment offers? We respectfully request that the PWS 1.5.5 requirement be increased from 5 days to 15 days. Which allows time for the successful contractor to interview and make offers to qualified incumbent employees.

Will the successful offeror be allowed 30 days to transition the contract?

Is there an incumbent contractor? If so please provide the contractor name, contract number and total cost of the contract.

A27: See previous questions and answers.

Q28: If there is an active contract, is the follow-on contract that we are bidding essentially the same in scope of work or have there been major changes?

A28: See previous questions and answers. The scope is primarily the same; however positions may be added or deleted as the need arises to support the mission.

Q29: 1.5.12 Personal Protective Equipment. Please provide a list of PPE that each labor category is required to have.

A29: The requirements for each position would deem what PPE is required to accomplish the assigned tasks.

https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=af54c6e15e82055f4115ae46cfe73f7b&term_occur=1&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=d3b32fbedc573b48b54e4eaa815cce09&term_occur=5&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=ddde7e791710a54f05d275f9db694388&term_occur=5&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=80fb588108eda34822560ae27fdc9a0d&term_occur=3&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=f0d3ff461d2c66cf2c2b5985a5cb1261&term_occur=1&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=ddde7e791710a54f05d275f9db694388&term_occur=6&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17 https://www.law.cornell.edu/definitions/index.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=ddde7e791710a54f05d275f9db694388&term_occur=7&term_src=Title:48:Chapter:1:Subchapter:H:Part:52:Subpart:52.2:52.222-17

Q30: 1.5.11 Contractor Travel B. Reimbursement for travel costs shall be limited to the direct costs of travel and per diem expenses incurred by the contractor. Will General and Administrative expenses (G&A) be allowable?

A30: Travel expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR), IAW

FAR 31.205-46 Travel Costs, and the limitation of funds specified in this contract. Unauthorized travel costs will be disallowed.

Q31: Can you please provide an editable copy of Attachment E PP Questionnaire so our customers can fill them out?

A31: An editable copy is not available.

Q32: 52.212-2 Criterion 2 management approach requests a PM Resume and commitment letter. Can these be submitted as attachments and therefore not included within the 15 page limit?

A32: Yes

Q33: WES-L-1004 b. Volume II i. (a) “the narrative shall not exceed fifteen (15) double sided pages.”

Please clarify if a sheet of 8 ½ x 11 paper with print on both sides (front and back) will be counted as 1 page or 2 pages against the 15 page limit.

A33: 8 ½ x 11 printed on both sides would be considered two pages.

Q34: DOE-G-2003 Contractor’s Program Manager – is designated as our primary point of contact and as such would quality as Key Personnel. 52.212.2 Criterion 2 requests key personnel resume for a Project Manager. Can you please clarify/confirm that these are referencing the same position?

A34: Yes

Q35: Does the government want a table of contents or list of acronyms for each section of the proposal and if so would they be counted in the 15 page limit?

PWS DESCRIPTION

MINIMAL - PPE

3.5 3.7 3.14 3.18

REQUIRED - PPE

3.8 3.13 3.15 3.16 3.17

Can be shared between Contractors - Hard Hats. If excess field work is needed steel toes and safety glasses.

Hard hats, steel toe shoes, flame-resistant (FR) clothing, safety glasses

A35: If acronyms are used in the proposal identification of the acronyms would be required as part of the 15 page limit.

Q36: PWS 1.5.5 F. Substitution of Employees “If a contract employees filling a Critical Low Risk position is unable to report to work of resigns, the contractor shall ensure a qualified substitute/replacement employee is provided within 30 days after being notified of the employee’s actions.” Please clarify what you mean by “unable to report for work” is there a timeframe associated with this? Normally if a person is out sick or on vacation their work would be covered by existing staff that are cross trained. Is this an acceptable approach? We also suggest the language be revised that a qualified substitute/replacement be identified by the contractor within 30 business days for Critical Low Risk to allow for agency background checks/processing.

A36: “unable to report for work” in others words the employee of the contractor is not at their designated work station.

Q37: PWS 1.5.5 F. Substitution of Employees “If a contract employees filling a Critical High Risk position is unable to report to work or resigns, the contractor shall ensure a qualified substitute/replacement employee is provided within 10 business days after being notified of the employee’s actions.” Please clarify how a contractor will be able to meet this requirement when agency background checks/ processing routinely take more than 10 business days. We suggest the language be revised that a qualified substitute/replacement be identified by the contractor within 10 business days for Critical High Risk.

A37: Revise to read: “If a contract employees filling a Critical High Risk position is unable to report to work of resigns, the contractor must show that they are actively seeking a qualified substitute/replacement employee is provided within 10 business days after being notified of the employee’s actions.”

Q38: PWS 3.3.1. The Contractor shall provide seven (6) Engineering Technicians to perform the following duties and tasks: Please clarify if this should be 7 or 6

A38: Six is correct.

Q39: PWS 2.4. The contractor shall provide cellular services for each task that is specifically identified. Please clarify if we are required to provide cell phones for each position? Or only positions that a cell phone is specifically called out?

A39: The contractor shall provide cellular services for each task that is specifically identified.

Q40: PWS Sections 3.13.2 A; 3.15.1 T; 3.16.1O (1); 3.17.1 J (1) all require equipment (ie: vehicles, cameras, cell phones etc) Please clarify if each position will need the equipment listed? Example each position requires the equipment specified and vehicles cannot be shared if all are in the field.

A40: Each position requires the equipment specified and vehicles cannot be shared if all are in the field.

Q41: PWS section 1.5.11 Travel costs reverences FAR 31.205-46 per section (d) Costs of contractor-owned or leased automobiles, as used in this paragraph, include the costs of lease, operation

(including personnel), maintenance, depreciation, insurance, etc. These costs are allowable, if reasonable, to the extent that the automobiles are used for company business. That portion of the cost of company furnished automobiles that relates to personal use by employees (including transportation to and from work) is compensation for personal services and is unallowable as stated in 31.205–6(m)(2). PWS Sections 3.13.2 A; 3.15.1 T; 3.16.1O (1); 3.17.1 J (1) all require contractor provided vehicles. Will the contractor be reimbursed for the cost of vehicles including the operation and maintenance expenses under a travel CLIN? Or should they be built into the company overhead?

A41: Cost shall be included in the monthly fixed rate.

Q42: PWS Sections 3.13.2 A; 3.15.1 T; 3.16.1O (1); 3.17.1 J (1) all require contractor provided vehicles. If the costs of the vehicles are not reimburse under a travel CLIN and is built into overhead please provide an estimate our historical information on miles driven per vehicle per contract year so we can cover fuel and maintenance expenses.

A42: No historical data has been documented by the government, but based on like positions within the government; it is estimated at an average of 18,000 miles.

Q43: PWS 3.16 Utility foresters – how is this position classified? (Ie: non-critical low risk?)

A43: Show read: 1.1. (Critical Low Risk Positions)

Q44: PWS 3.17 K. states herbicide shall be provided by the contractor. How will we be reimbursed for the herbicide? Will there be a CLIN? Does it need to be built into overhead? If so we will need the estimated quantity and type of herbicide (name brand/number) required.

A44: Cost for any herbicide will be reimbursed 100% under CLIN 2 of the contract. Contractor must provide receipt of product with monthly invoice. For guidance on pesticide/herbicide allowed per state, contact the applicable States Department of Agriculture or county office. Reference PWS 3.17.1, Sections K and L for further guidance. G&A will be allowed on reimbursable herbicide, but profit will not be allowed.

Q45: PWS 1.5.12 states WAPA O 440 1B dated 10-26-2015 must be adhered to in performance of this contract. Can you please provide a copy or a link to this document?

A45: Attachment will be provided

Q46: PWS 3.15 X states team lead for two foresters (PWS positions 3.31 and 3.39)… please clarify if this is referring to the 2 utility foresters in section 3.16

A46: 3.15 X. Change to read:

X. Team lead for two Foresters (PWS positions 3.16) to include directing workload and providing training and guidance as required.

Q47: PWS Sections 3.13; 3.16; 3.17 Please clarify if these positions work in groups of 2 or if they work independently

A47: PWS 3.13, 3.15 and 3.16 - Can work independently

PWS 3.17 – Work in groups of 2.

Q48: PWS 3.5 Engineering Technician VI – GIS Analyst (30085) should this be corrected to 30086 to match the SCA directory of occupations for this position?

A48: PWS 3.5 will be converted to 30086. These positions require a degree where 30085 does not.

Q49: PWS 3.10 Drafter/CAD Operator V (30065) and PWS 3.11 Drafter/CAD Operator VI (30066).

30065 and 30066 do not exist in the SCA directory of occupations and they are not listed on the Wage

A49: See previous question and answer

Q50: Determinations attached. (the highest number is 30064) are these SCA positions or are they to be considered exempt?

A50: No

Q51: General, Who is the incumbent on the current contract?

A51: The incumbent is Northstar Technology Corp, Contract Number 89503118FWA400031.

Q52: General, What is the awarded value of the current contract?

A52: $2,647,560.00

Q53: General, What is the value of the last option year?

A53: No option years, 6 month Contract, to allow time for Soliciting. Previous 5 year contract expired January 2018.

Q54: What is the period of performance for the current contract?

A54: 6 months, 01 Feb 2018 to 31 July 2018.

Q55: How does the government define “major subcontractor” for this solicitation?

A55: See previous answers.

Q56: 52.212-1 (C) and WES-L-1004 (4) 52.212-1 (C) identifies the period for acceptance of offers as

30 calendar days, while WES-L-1004 (4) states the offeror shall make the pricing and terms valid for a minimum of 90 calendar days. Please clarify.

A56: 90 calendar days is required.

Q57: DOE-J-2001 Attachment D, DOE 442.2 is listed as part of the contract, but it was not provided with the solicitation. Will the government provide this document?

A57: Added at fedbizops.gov

Q58: Past Performance, Is past performance information required for all subcontractors, or just major subcontractors?

A58: For clarification purposes the government is only looking for information on proposed major subcontractors. References must be provided for at least three (3) but no more than five (5) contracts each for both the prime contractor and any proposed major subcontractor.

Q59: Past Performance, Please confirm that subcontractor past performance citations do not need to meet the relevancy criteria (size, scope) of the entire contract, but must instead be relevant to the portion of work they expect to perform on this program

A59: Yes, if subcontracting only a portion of the work, their Past Performance should be related to that particular size and scope you identified for them.

Q60: Technical Narrative, Will the government confirm that the 15 page limit for the technical narrative means both sides of each page, i.e., 30 pages of content printed on 15 sheets?

A60: See previous answers.

Q61: PWS 1.5.5 are the Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager considered full time roles, or can they be proposed as collateral duties that can be full time roles, or can they be proposed as collateral duties that can be performed by other positions identified in the PWS?

A61: Program Manager will be a full time role. Alternate Program Manager will be collateral duties.

Q62: PWS 1.5.6, If the Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager are considered collateral duties and the government wishes to maintain continuity by offering first right of refusal for these positions, recommend removing requirement for resume and letter of commitment.

Contractors will not be able to negotiate in good faith with an outside applicant if they must provide first right of refusal to incumbent personnel. Furthermore, incumbent personnel are unlikely to negotiate with a contractor other than the incumbent prior to contract award, and may be prohibited from doing so by their current employer

A62: The PWS has been revised to reflect that the Program Manager does not have collateral duties

Q63: PWS 1.5.12 Will the government provide a copy of directive WAPA O 440 1 PPE dated 05-31-

2011?

A63: This is a WAPA Internal Document, we will need to provide as an attachment.

Q64: PWS 1.5.13 Will the government provide a copy of WAPA O 440.1B dated 10-26-2015?

A64: See previous question and answer

Q65: PWS 3.3.1 PWS states at 3.3 that manning for engineering technician IV is 6, but at 3.3.1 states, “The contractor shall provide seven (6) Engineering Technicians…” Will the government clarify whether the historical number of Engineering Technician IVs is 6 or 7?

A65: Should read: “six (6) Engineering Technicians”

Q66: PWS 3.17 (K) Will the government provide historical records of herbicide application to enable the contractor to better estimate costs for this item?

A66: Herbicide application in substations will be done at a rate of 100 gallons of mix per acre.

Typical applications use 2-ton flatbed trucks with two hose reelers and mix tanks on the back.

This will work for the majority of the subs to be treated. UTV’s with mounted booms can work in substations as well as along rights-of-way. Lastly, a five gallon backpack sprayer should also be a part of the equipment on hand to perform herbicide application as needed.

Q67: PWS 3.17 (P) Will the government provide the lists of restricted use pesticides for Arizona, California and Nevada?

A67: Please reference answer to Q44.

Q68: PWS 3.17 (R) (1) b is the contractor responsible for initiating Environmental Assessment? If not, will the government provide the estimated completion date for the EA?

A68: The contractor is not responsible for initiating Environmental Assessment.

Q69: PWS 3.17 (R) (1) c is the contractor responsible for initiating NEPA review? If not, will the government provide the estimated completion date for the review?

A69: The contractor is not responsible for initiating NEPA.

Q70: PWS 3.17.1(R) (2) (b) Will the government identify the site-specific requirements at the Mount Lemmon and Tower Mountain Microwave Sites?

A70: Yes. Because of remote locations and rugged terrain, contractor will need to coordinate with

Vegetation Manager prior to work being performed.

Q71: PWS 3.17.1(R) (2) (c) (iii) and 3.17.1(R) (3) (c-d) Will the government confirm that the biological monitor referenced is a government employee? Will the contractor be responsible for reimbursing the government for the costs associated with the biological monitors' efforts?

A71: Yes? The biological monitor will be a government employee. And No, the contractor will not be responsible for the bio-monitor’s efforts.

Q72: PWS 3.18 (F) References Attachment A-2, but this attachment does not appear in the solicitation. Will the government provide this attachment?

A72: Yes, this needs to be added to the solicitation. Attachment A-2 will be provided.

Q73: PWS 3.18.1 (L) Will the government provide historical emergency repair rates for supported equipment?

A73: No, This statement references phone calls received by the contracted employee at home not physically working on piece of equipment at their home, just telephonic advisement. Overtime will be approve at the negotiated rate on the firm-fixed-priced contract. This will be coordinated by the on-site Supervisor and the COR.

Q74: As this is a multiple award IDIQ solicitation, does each vendor’s corporate experience/ past performance need to cover all task areas of the PWS?

A74: The government anticipates a firm fixed price contract with a contract line item for reimbursables as specified in the PWS. Reference Solicitation page 50, DOE-L-2016 Number of Awards. It is anticipated there will only be 1 award, not multiple.

Q75: Solicitation Criterion 2 – Management Approach: This section references the qualifications for the Project Manager as required by the PWS. The PWS does not outline Project Manager requirements to include education level and experience. Please clarify.

A75: PWS has been changed to reflect Qualifications. Education has been noted.

Q76: Attachment A – PWS 1.5.5 B states the PM and Alternate shall have 5 years’ experience supervising the scope of activities which encompasses at least two of the three categories identified in the PWS. Please identify the three categories referenced.

A76: “The PM and Alternate shall have (1) strong organizational, (2) analytical and (3) written/oral communication skills.” This is off the PWS. The last statement “at least two of the three categories will be changed to read “all”. PWS has been revised.

Q77: Attachment A – PWS 1.5.5 B states the PM and Alternate shall have 5 years’ experience supervising the scope of activities which encompasses at least two of the three categories identified in the PWS. Please identify the three categories referenced.

A77: Same as above

Q78: Does the government have specific requirements for contract phase-out?

A78: No, close out will involve CPARS input, de-obligation of any excess funds and final payment processed. The time period for close out and actions to take will be effected by incoming contractor and their phase in plan, along with date scheduled for the new contractor to begin performance.

Q79: Attachment A – PWS: 3.13.2 Will the contractor be reimbursed for furnished equipment listed

(A-E)?

a. Will there be a separate CLIN for contractor furnished equipment?

b. Is G&A allowable?

A79: Contractor should build into their monthly rate.

Q80: 1.5.12 Personal Protective Equipment: Please provide a list of personal protective equipment required for each position. How often has PPE historically needed to be replaced?

A80: List has been provided in previous answer. No historical data is available for replacement.

Q81: Performance Work Statement Page, Section; Solicitation Page Pg 2, Section 1.5.3, Can the WAPA provide the level of technical support currently required or provided prior to and after core hours to assist in establishing the number of employees required during these times?

A81: If a need exists, this will be a coordinated effort between the On-Site Supervisor and the COR to determine appropriate hours needed for coverage.

Q82: Pg 3, Section 1.5.5 B. Will the WAPA consider changing “contract matters” to “technical matters” and change point of contact between Contractor and WAPA’s CO and delegated representatives (COR) to remove the WAPA CO? PM’s / Alt PM’s do not normally have contractual authority, this is delegated to a Contracts Manager/Specialist located in the contractor facility.

A82: Yes, PWS has been revised.

Q83: Pg 4, Section 1.5.5 F., Where the term “resigns” is used, is it to be defined as an immediate resignation? If it is defined as notice of resignation which could occur in more than 10 or 30 days, will the WAPA approve of an overlap and charging until the employee departs?

If not, would the WAPA consider changing “after being notified” to “after departure”?

A83: Yes. WAPA does not normally approve more than one person in a position.

Q84: Pg 4, Section 1.5.5 F., Contractor’s invoice will be reduced by the rate x business days the position is vacant. Is it to be assumed that labor will be a Firm Fixed-Price CLIN? If this is awarded as a T & M or LOE CLIN, the contractor cannot bill for work not performed thus there should be no additional reductions.

A84: The labor is a fixed price, the intent is that should a contractor not fill a position within the 30 day requirement, consideration may be requested by the government.

Q85: Pg 4, Section 1.5.5 H, Will background checks need to be completed on the first day of employment, or is there a period after contract start where the contractor must complete these actions?

A85: All employees must past background adjudication from WAPA Security Office prior to reporting for employment if they have not been employed by WAPA for the past 120 days and have not had any break in service within those 120 days.

Q86: Pg 8, Section 1.5.12, Will the contract award provide an ODC CLIN for the billing and maintenance of Contractor provided PPE?

A86: No

Q87: Pg 8, Section 2.4, Will the contract award provide an ODC CLIN for the cost of Contractor provided cellular services?

A87: No

Q88: Pg 1, Sections 1.5.1 & 1.5.2, Pgs 39/40, Sections 4.1 & 4.2, Quality Control (QC) Program and Quality Assurance Program are addressed at both locations and are in conflict. Please identify which will govern.

A88: The QSAP and the QCP are to different processes. In regards to most important to the contractor, it would be the QCP.

Q89: Pgs 40 - 42, PRS. Acceptable levels of performance is blank.

A89: Revision made to PWS.

Q90: Pg 41, PRS ITEM NO 1), States filling vacancies within a one (1) month period. Section 1.5 states 10 or 30 business days depending on risk level. Conflicts with PRS ITEM 5)

A90: It has been reviewed, and there is not conflict.

Q91: Pg 42, PRS ITEM NO 6), Severity levels referenced are not specified in the referenced sections

1.5.5.G through 1.5.5.J.

A91: PWS has been revised.

Q92: Pg 42, PRS ITEM NO’s 7 & 8, Should the allowed deviation be listed in the ACCEPTABLE column?

A92: PWS has been revised.

Q93: Pg 43, Section 4.6, States a CDR is prepared by the COR when the Allowable Acceptable Quality level is exceeded. With the possible exception of PRS ITEMS 7 and 8 (if revised), no AQL has been provided.

A93: PWS has been revised.

Q94: Solicitation, Pgs. 34-35, Is there a Pricing Template for Submission?

A94: Complete the Price Schedule indicated on page 3 through 4a d provide the pricing information requested in your own format.

Q95: PWS, Pgs. 3-39, Sec 3, there are Wage Determination schedules and Workers Comp Insurance coverages for 3 different locations. Is there a list that identifies station location for each FTE?

A95: See previous answer

Q96: PWS, Pg. 7, Sec. 1.5.12., is there a specific list of Personal Protective Equipment that is required by the PWS?

A96: See previous answer

Q97: PWS, Pg. 7, Sec. 1.5.11, Is G&A being applied to Travel? If so, how do we propose a G&A rate?

A97: See previous answer related to G&A.

Q98: PWS, Pg. 23, Sec 3.13, Contractor provided equipment is listed with the labor categories. Does the identified equipment apply to each person or per labor category?

A98: See previous answer.

Q99: PWS, Pg. 2, Sec 2 & Pg. 25, Sec 3.13, It is stated that WAPA will provide general office equipment. Will contractor need to provide portable copiers/scanners?

A99: Only for the positions for which the PWS identifies contractor furnishes equipment.

Q100: Solicitation, Pgs. 34, 35, How will pricing be evaluated (e.g. Best Value, Lowest Price Technical

Acceptable, etc.)?

A100: Reference Page 34 Price Proposal and page 33 52.212-2 Evaluations-Commercial Items.

Q101: Solicitation, Pgs. 34 – 35, is it’s the Government intention that the “Technical Support Services” CLINs be a combination of Labor and Contractor furnished equipment and Personal Protective Equipment?

A101: Yes, the fixed price CLIN has all costs associated with the contract shall be included in the fixed priced CLIN with the exception of any costs identified with applicable CLIN.

Q102: PWS, Pg. 2, Sec 2 & Pg. 25, Sec 3.13, Are the Personal Protective Equipment and other listed equipment to be included in Project Overhead? Or will the equipment be reimbursed via Other Direct Costs?

A102: PPE will not be reimbursed by WAPA as a reimbursable CLIN.

Q103: PWS, Pg. 25, Sec 3.13, there are Vehicle Registrations for 2 different locations. Is there a list that identifies station location for each FTE?

A103: The contractor employees for this PWS will be stationed at Phoenix location. Vehicle registration is needed for Arizona only. PWS has to be revised.

Q104: Solicitation, Pg. 3-4, PWS Pg. 23, Sec 3.13, Are Fully Burdened Overtime Rates pre-determined and submitted with proposal? Or are overtime costs pre-approved and reimbursed via Other Direct Cost?

A104: See pricing information required. Overtime will be reimbursed when approved in advance.

Q105: Attachment A Section 3.0 labor categories references critical/non-critical and risk levels. What is the definition of critical/non-critical and risk levels and what determines the designation assigned? Are there any additional financial costs associated to critical or high risk designations above and beyond salary and fringe compensation?

A105: The definition of Critical/Non-Critical refers to the level of access to DSW’s Critical

Infrastructure sites when it comes to substation equipment and transmission lines. Most of the contractors staff that work in office are deemed as Non-Critical where the field contractors would be considered Critical/High Risk due to the nature of their work. Response to the underlined is no.

Q106: Attachment A Section 3.16 – Utility Foresters labor category doesn’t have a critical/non-critical or risk level designation. Is this intentional?

A106: This position(s) is considered (Non-Critical High Risk Positions).

Q107: RFP 52.222-1 subsection e – RFP mentions offerors are encouraged to submit multiple offers. Is it the Government intention for offerors to submit multiple offers and how will these be evaluated to ensure reasonableness?

A107: Not the Government intention, however if a particular contractor feels a need and can price solicitation in multiple ways where the Govt may see it as a better opportunity to select a particular proposal due to advantages , they can do so . The evaluation of all proposals, even multiples from one company will be evaluated independently of each other using evaluation criteria provided in the solicitation.

Q108: RFP 52.222-2 Price Proposal and RFP 52.222-46 – Are the compensation plan and pricing detail documentation to be included in Volume I subsection ii?

A108: Yes

Q109: We noticed the Project Manager is not listed Attachment A Section 3.0. Is it the expectation that offerors provide the Project Manager and recover associated costs within their G&A indirect costs?

A109: No, Program Manager is listed as a separate position.

Q110: Position 3.8. Metering and Relay Technician a. Since this position is not identified under the

Service Contract Act, would the Wage Determination be based on the Davis-Bacon Act? Please provide guidance on the Wage Determination for this position.

A110: This position has a federal wage equivalency to a Wage Board (WB) 2610, Meter and Relay

Craftsman, at approximately $50.36 per hour.

Q111: Position 3.8, Would the Meter & Relay Technician only work when assigned job projects or would the Technician be required to appear at the Phoenix duty station between job projects and then at the job site during assigned projects?

A111: Position 3.8, the duty station for this position will be Paige Arizona; most job projects will be in this area location. There may be occasional travel to other WAPA-DSW regional sites.

Q112: Position 3.8, would overtime be mandatory based on the required support needed at the various construction projects?

A112: Position 3.8, Overtime will be mandatory, but is very minimal in this position.

Q113: Position 3.8, there is no written information on required travel for this position. What percentage of time would overnight travel be required?

A113: Travel will be very minimal and the percentage will be very low as well.

Q114: Position 3.8, would WAPA provide a transportation vehicle for this position? 1. Or would the

Contractor need to provide a “Reliable ruggedized four-wheel drive vehicle” for this position?

A114: Due to specialized equipment required for this position, WAPA will provide the vehicle for this position. The required training will need to be to done as specified on the PWS.

Q115: Position 3.8, would this position require the Technician to be WAPA Switchman certified? If so, will WAPA provide Switchman training and pay for the travel expenses and time required to certify the Technician as an Approved Switchmen for WAPA?

A115: Yes, this position should be a qualified electrical worker with certification to be able to work on live circuits. WAPA will provide Switchman certification and travel associated with the training.

Q116: Position 3.13, since this position is not identified under the Service Contract Act, would the

Wage Determination be based on the Davis-Bacon Act? Please provide guidance on the Wage Determination for these positions.

A116: These positions are federal wage equivalent to a General Schedule (GS) 809, Construction

Representative, 11, Step 5, at the rate of $34.33 per hour.

Q117: Position 3.13, would the Inspectors only work when assigned job projects or would they be required to appear at the Phoenix duty station between job projects and then at the job site during assigned projects?

A117: The inspectors will not be required to report to Phoenix duty station, if they have assigned jobs they can report to the site if other than Phoenix.

Q118: Position 3.13, if more than one Inspector is required for a project (usually a large projects), we typically assign a Lead Inspector for that project and pay an additional wage rate for that Lead Inspector for the added responsibility. Would Western Area Power Administration accept a two-tiered wage rate?

A118: The Inspector positions will be working alongside a federal inspector at a large construction site.

There is no need for a contracted Lead Inspector; therefore no two-tiered waged rate is required.

Q119: Position 3.13, regarding travel expenses i. Since an Inspector is required to drive a “Reliable ruggedized four-wheel drive vehicle with 11-inch ground clearance suitable for projects assigned under this PWS”, would WAPA agree to paying a higher mileage rate than the standard Internal Revenue Service Mileage Rate to compensate for the added expense of maintaining a four-wheel drive vehicle? A four-wheel drive vehicle requires more expensive oil changes, heavier tires, higher insurance policies and more expensive maintenance than a typical automobile. In addition, work sites are typically in remote locations on gravel roads and primitive right-of-ways that are especially hard on vehicles.

A119: It is up to the contractor to determine costs for this based on the specifications and include that cost in the fixed price. The average mileage is 18,000 per year.

Q120: Will WAPA provide Switchman training and pay for the travel expenses and time required to certify Inspectors as Approved Switchmen for WAPA?

A120: These positions do not require this training.

Q121: Would Western Area Power Administration consider separating the Construction Inspection

Support and Metering and Relay Technician positions as a separate contract from this solicitation since these positions require extensive specialized qualifications and experience?

A121: No.

Q122: Criterion 2 - Management Approach (Page 33) requires the key personnel resume and commitment letter be submitted. Can those documents be submitted as attachments, not counting against the 15 page limit?

A122: Yes

Q123: Due Date: July 26, 2018. Can the due date be extended 3 weeks to allow for Q&A responses to be issued and answers considered in responses?

A123: No