Amendment_0001_to_AFISS_RFP.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO.

3. EFFECTIVE DATE 4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

JAMGCODE

U.S. Department of Justice JMD, Acquisition Management Group 145 N. St., NE, Room Washington, DC 20530

Richelle P. Wright

6. ISSUED BY JAFM01CODE

Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Mgt. Staff 145 N. Street, NE Room 5W.511 Washington, DC 20530

(O) 202-616-8000

(F) 202-616-8100

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002

CODE FACILITY CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., street, country, state and ZIP Code) (X)

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

04/10/2014

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X XThe above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended, is not extended.

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 items 8 and 15, and returning ____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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT 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 your 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.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

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

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

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

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

The purpose of Amendment 0001 to the above referenced RFP is to provide bidders questions and answers 1 - 117 and to extend the proposal due date to 08 July 2014 at noon, Washington D.C. time.

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

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

Richelle Wright

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 15C. DATE SIGNED

By (Signature of Contracting Officer)

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 16C. DATE SIGNED

NSN 7540-01-152-8070

Previous edition unusable

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002/0001 Page 1 of 1 rwright Typewritten Text x rwright Typewritten Text rwright Typewritten Text

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services Attachment 6

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

1. NA NA Question: Must the small business prime contractor comply with the performance of work requirements of 13 C.F.R. Section 125.6 which requires small business prime contractors to perform at least 50% of the cost of the contract incurred for personnel with its own employees? We understand that independent consultants, compensated as “1099’s” are currently utilized for contract performance and these consultants may not fall within the definition of “employees”. Enforcement of this requirement could impact the availability of qualified personnel who are expecting compensation will not be tax affected, which it would need to be for employees versus 1099’s. How will these consultants be treated?

The Limitations on Subcontracting provision of the FAR (52.219-14) and the Code of Federal Regulations (13 CFR 125.6) apply to this procurement.

2. NA NA Question: On October 2, 2013, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued a final rule establishing new policies and procedures for setting aside multiple award contracts (MACs) and task and delivery orders for small

This contract is a total small business set aside. Orders will be competed as stated in the RFP.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services business. 78 Fed. Reg. 61114 (Oct.

2, 2013). Are these new interim rules on small businesses being used on this procurement (13 CFR 121, 124, 125, 126, and 127)?

3. NA NA Question: While this procurement is a small business set-aside, the response requirements put a significant burden on a small businesses ability to respond in such a short timeframe. Will the Government consider extending the due date to give small businesses adequate time to respond?

The government will extend the due date of proposal submission until 08 July 2014 at noon.

4. Section and Subsection:

C.Description/Specifications/Statement of Work; C.8 Security (a)

RFP Text The Question References:

Due to the sensitive nature of the investigative and litigation support data available during the conduct of projects envisioned by this contract(s), security is a paramount concern to the Government. Offerors shall have a current or active Top Secret (TS) or Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (TS/SCI) Facility clearance.

18 Question: Is this requirement extended to the prime contractor's proposed subcontractors? (i.e.

proposed subcontractors must also possess an active and current TS Facility clearance at time of proposal submission)

See number 27.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

5. Section and Subsection: L.2.2 Volume

I – Business Proposal; L.2.2.6 Physical and Personnel Security

RFP Text The Question References: A Top Secret Facility Clearance issued by DSS will be required to fully perform this contract. Notice is hereby given that the apparent successful Offeror shall have this TOP SECRET facility clearance no later than the time of proposal submission.

62 Question: Will the Government accept proposal responses from Small Business contractors who are currently in-process for a (Top Secret) FCL?

No. Offers must include an active Top Secret Facility Clearance at time of submission of proposals.

6. Section and Subsection: L.2.2 Volume I – Business Proposal; L.2.2.6 Physical and Personnel Security

RFP Text The Question References: A Top Secret Facility Clearance issued by DSS will be required to fully perform this contract…Notice is hereby given that the apparent successful Offeror shall have this TOP SECRET facility clearance no later than the time of proposal submission.

62 Question: Will the Government provide a letter of need/urgency to the Defense Security Service on behalf of any proposing contractors who are currently in-process for a facility clearance (FCL), which would aid in timely processing of the FCL?

No.

7. Section and Subsection: L.2.3 Volume II - Technical Proposal; L.2.3.7 Past Performance, (a)

64 Question: Please confirm that Offerors must provide 2 project references for every subcontractor they propose on their team.

Confirmed, if applicable.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

RFP Text The Question References: a) The technical proposal shall include three (3) references for the prime Offeror, not more than two (2) pages each in length for all projects of similar size and scope to this project, which are in progress or were completed within the past twelve months. For each project, please define the specific roles required for the project and which roles your team filled directly. If applicable, include two (2) references for each proposed subcontractor, not more than two (2) pages each in length for all commensurate projects that are in progress or were completed within the past 12 months.

8. Section and Subsection: Section G.

Contract Administration Data; G.1.6 Contractor Representative(s), (a) and (b)

RFP Text The Question References:

(a) The Contractor shall appoint a Contract Manager who will be the Contractor’s authorized representative for the technical performance of all services required hereunder.

(b) The Contractor shall appoint an Administrative Manager who will be

26 Question: Confirm the contracts manager and administrative manager are two separate roles from the Partner/Officer and Project Manager labor categories

The position of the Contract Manager is defined in Section C.5 (Contract Management and Administration). The functions and other support described in this section are required but not separately billable. This individual may or may not be a Partner/Officer or Project Manager in the organization.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services the Contractor’s authorized representative for all administrative and invoicing services required hereunder.

9. Section and Subsection: L.2.3 Volume II – Technical Proposal, (b) (1) L.2.3.4(d) Staffing Plan – 20 pages

RFP Text The Question References:

(1) All resumes must include a description of position duties and mandatory qualifications, as well as information about the qualifications of the individuals proposed relative to the position requirements, where applicable.

(d) Resumes of Key Personnel and Letters of Commitment: Submit resumes for the Key Personnel, noted in Section H, limited to 2 pages each resume. For personnel that are not yet hired, a letter of commitment shall accompany the resume with the intent that if a contract is awarded, that individual will be available for work.

Letters of commitment that do not accompany key personnel resumes that are not yet hired by the prime will not receive evaluation credit.

63 Question: Given resumes can only be two pages in length, please confirm the Government does not intend for the Offeror to duplicate the position duties and qualifications listed in Attachment 2 of RFP.

The positions of the Key personnel (Partner/Officer and Project Manager) listed in Attachment 2 consist of only a couple sentences and include required qualifications of experience that should be included in a resume.

For this solicitation the resumes for the key personnel positions ( a maximum of one (1) Partner/Officer, two (2) Project Managers, and one (1) Contract Manager) must still comply with the 2 page limit but the resumes themselves will not count toward the maximum page counts in Section L.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

10. Section and Subsection: Section L.2

Instructions for Proposal Submission;

L.2.1, General, (d)

RFP Text The Question References:

Type (font) size must be no less than 10 point except for labels and headings (used with graphics, tables and figures) which may be smaller.

60 ? No question given ?

11. Section and Subsection: Section L.2 Instructions for Proposal Submission;

L.2.1 General, (e)

RFP Text The Question References:

(e) To be considered compliant and eligible for award, the proposal shall, at a minimum, include the information identified in Sections L.2.2 and L.2.3, and comply with the cited page limitations included in the following table. …

60 Question: Please confirm the Offeror's cover letter is excluded from page count.

Confirmed.

12. Section and Subsection:

Attachment 2, Senior Financial Investigator Description of Duties and Investigative Analyst Duties ; C.6.3 Education/Experience Requirements of Labor Categories, [c]

SOW page and Attachment 2, pp 1-2 and 4

Question: In Attachment 2, the description of duties for the Senior Financial Investigator (SFI) the requirement "Utilizes information obtained as a result of the financial analysis and prepares documentation for use by law enforcement

This duty may be attributable to the labor categories of Senior Financial Investigator, Financial Investigator, and/or the Investigative Analyst. The list is not all inclusive of the duties that will be performed.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

RFP Text The Question References:

(c) Senior Financial Investigator (SFI), 2nd sentence has the following requirement "Utilizes information obtained as a result of the financial analysis and prepares documentation for use by law enforcement personnel pursuing civil and criminal forfeiture matters."

personnel pursuing civil and criminal forfeiture matters." noted in Section C.6.3 of the RFP is not listed - however, the requirement is in the description of duties for the Investigative Analyst position.

Please confirm that the requirement noted should be removed from the SFI job description in C.6.3.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

13 H.11(a) and (b) 31 H.11 (a) lists key personnel under the contract as Partner/Officer and Project Manager(s). However, H.11(b) states, “The list of key personnel set forth below may be amended from time to time during the course of the contract to add or delete personnel, as appropriate”, yet the only person listed below this statement is the Contract Manager in H.11(c). Please clarify as to what positions are considered key personnel under this contract.

The Partner/Officer, Project Manager, and Contract Manager positions are all considered Key Personnel for this requirement.

However, while the Contract Manager’s responsibilities apply to the overall contract, the Partner/Officer and Project Manager responsibilities relate to the direct delivery of requested services under specific task orders.

14 H.23 41 This section pertains to "Non- Displacement of Qualified Workers under Contracts." Are all non-managerial and non-supervisory personnel on the current PACS

Yes.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services contract considered qualified workers for the purpose of this provision?

15 L.2.1(b) 60 Printer drivers can skew the page counts when using Microsoft Word.

Is it permissible to submit the proposal using searchable PDF either instead of or in addition to Microsoft Word files?

Yes.

16 L.2.1(e) L.2.3.4

60-61

Please confirm that the table of contents and evaluator aids such as a cross reference are not included in page count.

Confirmed.

17 L.2.1(e) L.2.3.4

60-61

Please confirm that the “Letters of Commitment” are not included in the Technical Volume Page count.

Confirmed.

18 L.2.3(b) 63 L.2.3(b) states “For those sections of the technical proposal that require the Offeror to submit resumes, which includes Key Personnel, the following applies … .” Please clarify if only the resumes of the key personnel are to be submitted with the proposal. Will the proposal be evaluated more favorably if resumes for personnel other than key personnel are included?

Only Key Personnel please.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

19 H.11 31 The RFP states that bidders must include resumes of “KEY” personnel and names the KEY personnel as the Partner/Office and Program Manager(s). How many resumes of each of these labor categories is required?

Please see the answer to question 9 above. That is the number that will be evaluated for the initial proposals. There may be more key personnel required for specific task orders but they will be evaluated at the time of individual task order awards.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

20 L.2.2.6 Physical and Personnel Security

62 It appears that we can submit evidence of clearance or a plan with timelines for obtaining clearance to qualify. But, in that same paragraph, it appears that lack of a clearance at time of submitting the proposal is disqualifying. Please clarify.

See answer to question 5 above.

21 M.2.1(a)(5) General Conditions 67 This section states that offeror shall have this TOP SECRET facility clearance no later than the time of proposal submission; otherwise, it will not be eligible for award. Can you make an exception for 8(a) firms such as an interim clearance (interim eligibility).

No.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

22 L.2.3.7 64 Will the government consider reducing the number of Prime references from three to two?

No.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

23 L.2.2.1.c 61 (c) Section G.1.5: The Offeror shall complete the fill-in information required in Section G.1.5.

Please confirm that the correct section to be filled in is G.1.6.

Confirmed.

24 L.2.1.b L.3

60, 65 The Offeror shall provide one (1) electronic copy of the Business proposal.

Two (2) Volume 1 CD-ROMs or DVD Copies

Please clarify the number of electronic copies for the Business Proposal?

One Copy.

25 H.11 (a) H.11 (c)

31 In Section H.11 (a) Key Personnel are listed as: 1. Partner/Officer; 2.

Project Manager. Section H.11 (c) states that the contractor shall designate an individual as its Contract Manager for this contract.”

Is it the intention of the Government that the Contract Manger be the Partner/Officer, Project Manager or another individual? If it is another

See answer to question 8 and 9 above and refer to Section L to determine if a resume for the Contract Manager is required.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services individual, is a Key Personnel resume required for the person who is named the Contract Manager?

26 M.2.1 (5) 67 Section M.2.1 (5) requires the offeror to submit evidence of a Top Secret Facility clearance. Is submission of the offeror’s CAGE Code sufficient evidence of the clearance? If not, what documentation must be submitted?

Yes, Cage Code with contractor mailing address.

27 M.2.1 (5) 67 Section M.2.1 (5) requires the offeror to have a Top Secret Facility Clearance no later than the time of proposal submission. Will a prime contractor offeror with an existing Top Secret Facility Clearance who proposes to use a subcontractor who does not have a Top Secret Facility Clearance for a small portion of work still be eligible for award if the prime contractor offeror proposes to sponsor the subcontractor for a Top Secret Facility Clearance after award?

Prime must have FCL at time of proposal submission but Sub-contractor may have FCL at time of work start.

28 L.2.2.1 (c) G.1.5 (a)

The following requirement is in Section L.2.2.1 (c):

“The Offeror shall complete the fill-

See answer to #23.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services in information required in Section G.1.5.”

However, the following information is cited at G.1.5 (a) :

ACORs may be designated for individual tasks performed under this contract and will be identified in each corresponding task order.

These individuals are qualified and responsible employees for whom the work is being performed and are responsible for daily oversight of the Contractor’s performance of this work. ACORs will report directly on task order performance to the COR or GPM and will closely coordinate their efforts with the COR or GPM.”

There appears to be nothing in Section G.1.5 that requires fill-ins cited in Section L.2.2.1 (c). Can this please be clarified?

29 H.23 41 How does the government view the practice of employees and independent contractors under the predecessor contract submitting resumes to multiple companies which may be awarded contracts

The Government is not aware of any prohibitions to this practice.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services under this RFP?

30 C.4.1 (d) 10 Can the Government provide a list of necessary supplies the contractor is responsible to furnish contractor personnel on site for field work?

All supplies required for performance of the contract will be provided at the government facilities. This includes the work station, computers, access to required databases, telephones, scanners, faxes, etc. some task orders will include other required items such as laptops, cell phones, blackberries, etc.

31 L.2.3.5 64 How long of a transition period does the Government anticipate?

60 days from Date of Award of a task order.

B.3.1 (a)

The solicitation states, “Hourly Rate. All hourly rates are considered fixed unit prices that shall include all expenses and profits. Expenses include, but are not limited to:

salaries/wages, fringe benefits, equipment usage, computer resources (defined as “in-house” computer resources which are utilized by the Contractor at its site in the performance of work comparable to that required under this contract, including personal computers for Contractor staff), facilities, overhead, and general and

No. All task order work will be performed at government sponsored locations with the exception of any contract management and administration functions done in support of the contract, which is not separately billable under Section C.5.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services administrative expenses.”

Please confirm the hourly rates proposed are for work at Contractor Site.

33 B.3.1( c) 7 Regarding travel, the solicitation states, “Reimbursement for actual (approved) travel costs incurred during the performance of support services shall be in accordance with Part 31 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations.

Please confirm that contractors will be reimbursed for G&A expenses associated with travel costs.

No, just the actual cost of travel.

F.4.2 23 This section entitled “Place of Performance” states. “This contract requires performance at the Contractor's site(s) and at various Government and non-Government sites throughout the United States, and in limited cases, outside of the United States.

Please confirm the hourly rates proposed are for work within CONUS, and that Contractors will be authorized to propose appropriate State Dept. allowances, DBA, and other approved costs on specific task

All task order work will be performed at a location provided by the government. Any work performed at a Contractor site will be in accordance with Section C.5 in support of the contract and not separately billable. It should be considered overhead and covered under the fully loaded labor rates on assigned task orders.

Any OCONUS requirements will be on a TDY basis with no additional or alternative pay. TDY

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services orders for work OCONUS.

duties will be billed in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations.

35 H.17.1.2.2 (a)(1) 35 (a) The following forms must be completed and submitted by the Contractor’s Corporate Security Officer for each contract PTI:

(1)FD-258 Applicant Fingerprint Card. Two sets are required per applicant. The Contractor may schedule appointments with the SPM to be digitally fingerprinted;

otherwise, fingerprinting by the FBI is required. All pertinent information must be completed by the individual taking the prints or by the FBI if prints are taken there.

Please clarify if H.17.1.2.2 (a) (1) or H.17.1.2.4 governs the submission of fingerprints. Namely, is a submission of fingerprints via the SWFT program in support of an EQIP submission considered adequate?

It depends upon the customer, the individual task order requirements and the situation and will be handled within each applicable task order.

36 B.1 General

(b) Contract Term

7 Would DOJ please provide the anticipated award date or Contract start date for estimating purposes?

10/1/2014

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

37 B.3.1[c]

7 Since a company’s Disclosure Statement may require total accountability and payment of travel hours, even if such travel takes place outside of normal business hours, would the Government consider removing this restriction?

Additionally, there are times when travel expenses outside of normal business hours are less expensive and more economical.

No.

38 C.8.(e) 19 This section states, “The contractor shall assure that all persons utilized in the performance of this contract shall have submitted to the following required Government performed security investigations prior to assignment hereunder. The solicitation does not specify what are the “security investigations.” Please clarify.

The word “hereunder” is incorrect.

The word should be “aforementioned” and refers to the estimated quantities of Cleared personnel identified above.

Specific numbers and levels of clearances will be task order specific.

39 H. 11 (a) 31 Can the Government please clarify if there is a requirement to identify key personnel in paragraph (a) of H.11 in the response to the solicitation or are these positions to be identified in Task Orders?

See answer to question 19 above.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

40 Section I, 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2011)

47 The clause states, “…(1) Services (except construction). At least 50

See Answer to Question #1.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services percent of the cost of contract performance incurred for personnel shall be expended for employees of the concern.” Does DOJ consider individuals working on a 1099 basis to be subcontractors, or can they be considered employees for purposes of this effort?

41 H.25 SubContracts and Contracting Officer Consent

41 Section A of the clause states,”… the small prime may not expend on subcontractors more than 50 percent of the amount paid to the concern under the contract…” Does DOJ consider individuals working on a 1099 basis to be subcontractors, or can they be considered employees for purposes of this effort?

See Answer to Question #1.

42 C.6.3 (g) Legal Advisor (LA) 17 The clause states at the end, “…(To be ordered/used on an as needed basis and for limited duration).”

Does this mean that DOJ does not expect the LA positions to be ordered on a full time or long term basis? If that is true, can DOJ provide an estimate of the amount of LA services that may be required during the life of the contract?

Yes. An estimate is not possible at this point.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

43 L.7 65-66 In its instructions regarding how questions about this solicitation will

Bidder’s are not identified, questions and answers only. This

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services be addressed, the Government states that it “will post all industry questions and Government responses…giving due regard to the proper protection of all proprietary information.” Will the Government consider the vendor names, as requested in the second column of this Attachment 6, as “proprietary information” that will be protected (withheld) when questions and answers are published on FBO?

Traditionally, questions and answers have not served as a forum through which potential bidders are identified. More important, any questions or concerns raised could potentially reveal certain aspects of the bidder’s proposal strategy, which is inherently proprietary in nature.

This could significantly reduce the quality and number of questions put forth by bidders, thereby making this question and answer period less productive for the Government and potential bidders alike.

is standard practice.

44 H.11 31 At the beginning of Section H.11, the Government names the following as Key personnel:

“Names of Key Personnel

1. Partner/Officer

Refer to questions 8, 9. and 25 above.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

2. Project Manager(s)”

The Government then goes on to make the two following statements in regard to key personnel:

“The contractor shall designate an individual as its Contract Manager for this contract” and “The contractor may also designate additional individuals as task order Project Managers to assist the Contract Manager in the management and control of multiple task orders being performed concurrently.”

The first set of directives indicates that a Project Manager is required and a Contract Manager is not, whereas the later descriptions suggest the opposite. Therefore, could the Government please clarify which positions are key personnel on this contract?

45 L.2.1 60 The Government stipulates that “Microsoft Word and Excel formats are required” for the Business and Technical proposals. Given that an individual’s personal computer settings may affect how a Microsoft

Yes. Searchable PDF is permitted.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

Word document will display on a computer screen, would the Government also allow for the submission of PDFs in lieu of Microsoft Word documents? This will reduce the potential for variance between the electronic and paper copies of the proposal.

46 L.2.2.5 Price Support Information (Information Other Than Cost or Pricing Data)

62 Are sealed pricing packages required of any proposed subcontractors?

No.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

47 H.17.1.2.6 Replacement Personnel, (a) "...The contractor shall make every effort to preclude incurrence of costs by the Government for security investigations for replacement employees, and in so doing, shall assure that otherwise satisfactory and physically able employees assigned hereunder remain in contract performance for at least (1) year."...

37 For clarification, please confirm that this requirement does not apply to non-key personnel.

This applies to ALL contract personnel not just key personnel.

48 B.1 General, (a), last sentence “The process for task order placement is described in Section H.8 and in Section C, paragraph C.4.3 of the Statement of Work.”

6 C.4.3 of the SOW is "reserved" and does not contain any information.

Will the Government be providing additional information for C.4.3?

No.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

49 C.6.6 Reassignment of Contractor Personnel (b) and [c] “In the event the contractor finds it necessary to replace any of the key personnel, the COR shall be notified in writing. [c] In cases of contractor initiated reassignment of personnel, notice shall be provided at least 30 days prior to reassignment with sufficient time allowed for training of replacement personnel.”

17 Are there different requirements for reassigning key vs. non-key personnel?

No.

50 L.2.2.1 Terms and Conditions, (b) “By incorporating the terms and conditions set forth in Sections B, D, E, F, G, H, and I of the solicitation document into the proposal, the Offeror is agreeing to comply with these terms and conditions. In lieu of providing actual copies of these pages, the Offeror shall provide the following written certification of acknowledgment and compliance with these requirements.”

61 The FAR clause in Section I on page 49 (52.219-28) requires the Offeror to date and sign the noted FAR section. Please confirm if the Offeror uses the option of providing written certification in lieu of actual copies; they do not have to sign and return page 49.

Please sign and return the language in the RFP in lieu of.

51 L.2.1 General, (e) “To be considered compliant and eligible for award, the proposal shall, at a minimum, include the information identified in Sections L.2.2 and L.2.3, and comply with the cited page limitations included in the following table….

60 Please confirm that acronym list, table of contents, compliance matrices, and other reference materials are excluded from page count.

Confirmed.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

52 L.2.1 General (a) and (b) Volume I - Business Proposal (Original plus 2 copies) ...Offeror shall provide one (1) electronic copy of the Business proposal and L.3 Items to Be Delivered Column of table One (1) Volume 1 (Business) Printed Copy Two (2) Volume 1 CD-ROMs or DVD Copies

60 and 65 The items to be delivered in the table in this section conflict with the items in L.2.1 (a) and (b). Please confirm that for Volume I - Business Proposal, the Government requires:

two (2) printed copies and two (2) CD-ROM copies

One original Business Proposal and one printed copy and 1 electronic copy please. See also answer to #24.

53 L.2.1 General (e) To be considered compliant and eligible for award, the proposal shall, at a minimum, include the information identified in Sections L.2.2 and L.2.3, and comply with the cited page limitations included in the following table… Volume 2, Entire Technical Proposal, 103 not including resumes. Resumes limited to two (2) pages each.

60 103 page limit equals the 3 pages for Executive Summary, 25 pages for Technical Approach, 25 Pages for Management Plan, 20 pages for Staffing Plan, 20 pages for Transition Plan, and 10 Pages for Corporate Experience and Capability.

The 103 page limit does not compensate for the Past Performances, limited to 2 pages each per reference.

Question: Please confirm that the past performance references are excluded from the page count

Confirmed.

54 Section H.17.1.1, Page 34, indicates that the Contractor shall possess or be

Pages 34, Our facility clearance is in process.

May our firm be eligible if the

Please see responses to questions 5 and 6 above.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services capable of obtaining facility security clearances and Section L.2.2.6 states that Offerors must demonstrate an understanding of this requirement and the ability to comply with the clearances issued by DSS and that Offerors shall submit evidence of clearance or a plan for obtaining clearance. Section L.2.2.6, however, also states that the apparent successful Offerer shall have the facility clearance no later than the time of submission.

Section M.2.1., Page 67, indicates that Offerors must already have a facility clearance at time of proposal submission.

62, and 67 facility clearance is in place by the time the task order is awarded?

55 Section H.17.1.1, Page 34, indicates that the Contractor shall possess or be capable of obtaining facility security clearances and Section L.2.2.6 states that Offerors must demonstrate an understanding of this requirement and the ability to comply with the clearances issued by DSS and that Offerors shall submit evidence of clearance or a plan for obtaining clearance. Section L.2.2.6, however, also states that the apparent successful Offerer shall have the facility clearance no later than the time of submission.

Section M.2.1., Page 67, indicates that

Pages 34 and 67

Will the Government consider providing a letter to DSS for those Offerors who are currently in-process for a facility clearance (FCL), requesting that their application be expedited?

No. A Top Secret Facility Clearance will be required at the time of submission of proposals.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

Offerors must already have a facility clearance at time of proposal submission.

56 Section H.17.1.1, Page 34, indicates that the Contractor shall possess or be capable of obtaining facility security clearances and Section L.2.2.6 states that Offerors must demonstrate an understanding of this requirement and the ability to comply with the clearances issued by DSS and that Offerors shall submit evidence of clearance or a plan for obtaining clearance. Section L.2.2.6, however, also states that the apparent successful Offerer shall have the facility clearance no later than the time of submission.

Section M.2.1., Page 67, indicates that Offerors must already have a facility clearance at time of proposal submission.

Pages 34 and 67

Can the Offeror use a subcontractor’s active TS Facility clearance until such time their own is approved?

No.

57 Section H.17.1.1, Page 34, indicates that the Contractor shall possess or be capable of obtaining facility security clearances and Section L.2.2.6 states that Offerors must demonstrate an understanding of this requirement and the ability to comply with the clearances issued by DSS and that Offerors shall submit evidence of clearance or a plan for obtaining

Pages 34 and 67

If an Offeror is in-process (or has an interim clearance for a (Top Secret) FCL at time of award, will the Government provide an award to the Offeror?

5 and 6.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services clearance. Section L.2.2.6, however, also states that the apparent successful Offerer shall have the facility clearance no later than the time of submission.

Section M.2.1., Page 67, indicates that Offerors must already have a facility clearance at time of proposal submission.

58 Section L.2.3.4 states that a letter of commitment is required for personnel not yet hired.

64 Because the timing of the Task Order is unknown, and maybe months away, identified personnel may choose not to fully commit to a position until all specifics are known. May the letter of commitment be predicated on certain conditions or terms?

Predicated on award of a contract is fine.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

59 General What is the current level of spending on the current contract for the base year and option years?

This information is not required to submit a bid.

60 C.4.1 (e) 10 Is the training for DOJ contract specific items reimbursable under this contract?

Section C.4.1.(e) of the RFP sets forth the contract specific training which the contractor shall provide at no cost to the Government. The potential reimbursement for other training not listed may be assessed on an individual basis if considered applicable.

61 General Is it the government intent to issue a multiple award based on expertise of

Multiple awards will be made.

Fair opportunity competitions will

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services the selected vendor or will the selected vendor compete to all task order be conducted for each task order.

62 Section C.1 f. 9 Please explain how AFMS coordinates asset forfeiture activities with TEOAF.

Knowledge of internal Government coordination processes is not required information to submit a bid.

63 Section C.1 f. 9 Does AFMS and TEOAF have separate and distinct infrastructures, i.e., reporting systems, etc. to manage their individual asset forfeiture programs.

This information is not required to submit a bid.

64 Section C.4.4 13 Based on the description of the Seized Property Analysis and Support is it correct to assume that work in this area will all be in support of ATF?

That is currently correct.

65 Section C.4.4, 3.k. 14 Please describe the activities associated with assistance in the destruction of forfeited assets.

This includes destruction or disposal of assets. Activities include expert knowledge of handling evidence, seized property, weapons, ammunition, explosives, alcohol, and tobacco.

Knowledge must include storage requirements, inventory management, knowledge of vault/bunker and contract storage requirements as well as coordinating property transfers and placement of forfeited items into official use. Destruction and

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services transportation of firearms, ammunition and explosives.

66 Section C.4.4.4 14 What asset forfeiture training currently exists?

This information is not required to submit a bid. Should a task order request be issued for the support set forth under Section C.4.4.4 of the RFP, relevant details regarding existing asset forfeiture training will be provided at that time.

67 Section C.4.4.4 14 Please identify all methods of training delivery currently being employed by AFMS, e.g., e- Learning, WebEx, classroom, etc.

Please see the response to question 66 above. Details regarding existing methods of training delivery will be provided at the time an applicable task order request is issued.

68 Section C.6.5, 17 Will the Government consider support of Inspectors General organizations and other Federal audit and compliance experience as relevant law enforcement experience?

Some consideration may be given if the activities are external to the Government and have to do with Financial, Forfeiture, or Asset Forfeiture related activities.

69 Section C.6.5, 17 Can paragraph (b) be revised to state, “significant experience investigating financial crimes for a financial or other similar institution.”

No. The term financial institution is broad and includes banking, securities, mortgage, brokerage, insurance, and commodities exchanges.

70 Section H.25 41 To maintain small business prime contractor status, subcontractor support cannot exceed 50%. Is the 50% threshold at the task order or IDIQ level?

Contract Level.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

71 Section H.25 41 Is the small business prime contractor required to provide at least 50% of the support or does support provided by a small business subcontractor also count towards the 50% threshold required?

Please see 13 CFR 125.6.

72 Section L.2.2.5 62 Since pricing supporting data is normally considered company proprietary and competition sensitive, are first-tier subcontractors allowed to submit sealed packages to the Government (if necessary)?

Not necessary.

73 Section L.2.3.5 64 What is the start and end date for the contract transition period.

60 days from date of award of a task order.

74 Section M.22(a) 67 Please further explain the statement,” If a team is proposed for the work, the Team will be evaluated as a whole” from the perspective of how the Government will evaluate the proposals.

If a team is proposed, the government will assess the merits of how the proposed roles, contributions, and qualifications of the team members work together to address the RFP requirements.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

75 Section C.8.)c) – Security 18 of 70 Background investigations are required for contractor personnel.

Is the government paying for these investigations, including periodic reinvestigations of security clearances for existing personnel?

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

76 Section B.A.1 – Contract Type 6 of 70 Since this is an IDIQ type contract that will have task orders being awarded after Fair Opportunity Competitions on a Fixed-price, labor hour, time and materials basis per the RFP, will the government’s request for a task order proposal require a technical response and resumes besides a price proposal?

77 Section B.1 – General 6 of 70 Since this is a IDIQ contract with no specific work quantities to be issued under task order does the government consider this a temporary staffing contract with the employment of 1099 personnel?

See Answer to Question #1.

78 B.1, C.4.3 6 & 12 Section B.1 states that the process for task order placement is described in Section H.8 and in C.4.3. While section H.8 states that the ACO will exercise broad authority when making task order awards, Section C.4.3 is blank. Can the government please clarify the process for task order awards? Will contract holders be required to prepare technical and/or price proposals to compete for task order awards?

In accordance with the FAR, the ACO does have broad discretion when making task order awards.

Usually, contract holders will submit a technical and price proposal to compete for a task order.

79 A.1 6 It is stated that “DOJ intends to award multiple IDIQ type

Minimum 4. Maximum depends on how many qualifying proposals

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services contracts”. Is there a target number or maximum/minimum number of awards that will be made?

are received and funding levels.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

80 H.14(f) 32 Is the supervisor/manager identified in this clause the same position as the Contractor ’s Contract Manager stated in G.1.6?

It can be, depending on the offerors approach and resources.

81 F.5 23 With respect to the change in prevailing labor rates provided by the Department of Labor, the Service Contract Act of 1965 and a Wage Determination was not included as part of the solicitation.

Please clarify how and when a contract can request a change in rate.

This is not a SCA covered contract. Rates that are proposed shall be set for the duration of the contract.

82 H.25 41 If the contractor is operating under a CPSR, is consent still required?

This clause seems to contradict the inclusion of FAR 52.244-2 in Section I of the solicitation.

H.25 is included to authorize primes to subcontract with those firms they propose. The Contracting Officer shall approve all subcontracting under the proposed contract. The clause supplements 52.244-2.

83 L.2.2.1 (c) 61 The requirement is to complete the fill-in information required in Section G.1.5. This section does not have a fill-in. Should the Section be changed to G.1.6? Please clarify.

Yes. See also answer to #23.

84 L.2.1 (b) L.3

60 There is a discrepancy between these 2 sections regarding the number of

Original and 1 hard copy for the business proposal. 1 CD of the

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services

65 printed and electronic copies required for Volume I. L.2.1 (b) states Original + 2 hard copies and 1 CD-ROM. L.3 states Original + 1 hard copy and 2 CD-ROMs. Please clarify the number of printed and electronic copies required to be delivered for Volume I.

business proposal please. See also answer to #24.

85 L.2.3.3 (a) 63 Request DOJ consider excluding the Contract Manager resume from the Management Plan page count and include it with the Key Personnel Resumes and limit it to 2 pages.

Background information for this position would still be included in the Management Plan and subject to the page limit. This allows Offerors to fully address all of the requirements of the Management Plan within the 25 page limit.

See response to question 9.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

86 Section L Top secret facility clearances needed at time of submission – Section L226 requires evidence of clearance or a plan (including timelines) for obtaining clearance.

Notice is hereby given that the apparent successful Offeror shall have this TOP SECRET facility clearance no later than the time of

Please see responses to questions 5 and 6 above. The Government has also extended the proposal response date considerably.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services proposal submission; otherwise, it will not be eligible for award.

Question: The above appears to contradict itself– will it be acceptable to have a “Plan for obtaining a clearance” – and/or would the government consider having the clearance at time of award? It appears such a requirement to have a clearance at time of proposal submission is providing an unfair competitive advantage to incumbent firms.

No. RFP Section RFP Pg. Bidder’s Question DOJ Answer

87 Question: Is it acceptable for companies to form mentor-protégé joint ventures to submit a proposal with the joint venture as the Offeror?

a. If so, will the past performance of both joint venture members count toward the past performance of the prime?

b. Can either joint venture partner submit the required three past performance references?

c. If either member of the joint venture holds a TS facility clearance, will that satisfy the

This contract is set aside for exclusive competition among small businesses. Consequently, if a proposal is submitted by a joint venture, the joint venture must qualify as a small business concern for this procurement.

Please see Section 19 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) for the rules concerning joint ventures and the Code of Federal Regulations at 13 CFR §121.103 regarding affiliation.

As such:

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services requirement that the Offeror must have the TS facility clearance at the time it submits its offer?

a. The past performance of the entity formed is what will be evaluated.

b. Past performance should be submitted from the entity formed. If no past performance is available, this will be evaluated neutrally in accordance with the FAR requirements.

c. Yes.

88 C.8.a, 2nd sentence 18 Offerors shall have a current or active Top Secret (TS) or Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (TS/SCI) Facility clearance. (bolding “or” to highlight)

Question: Should this sentence read "Offerors shall have a current and active Top Secret (TS) or Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (TS/SCI) Facility clearance."

Yes.

89 C.4.1.a;

L.2.2.4 Pricing Table, last two sentences

10 and 62 C.4.1. General states "The contractor shall be responsible for....(a) Furnishing all necessary qualified personnel, facilities, and materials in order to provide investigative, analytical, technical and other related services to the AFP and to

Confirmed.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services other Asset Forfeiture Management Staff approved requirements in accordance with this Statement of Work, as described below."

L.2.2.4 Pricing Table, last two sentences states Support services are rarely required on the contractor’s site. The majority of support services are provided in localities other than the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Question: Please confirm the majority of work is performed on Government sites and that the Government furnishes appropriate materials for personnel to perform the work.

90 H.11 Key Personnel 31 Question: Is the Contract Manager considered to be key personnel?

See answers to questions 8, 9 and 25.

91 L.2.1.b 60 Question: Please confirm that PDF files are acceptable, especially for documents requiring signatures such as commitment letters, Section A, etc.

Confirmed.

92 L.2.2.1.b and c 61 The RFP states:

“…(b) By incorporating the terms and conditions set forth in Sections B, D, E, F, G, H, and I of the solicitation document into the

In the business proposal.

DJJ-14-JAFMS-R-0002 Asset Forfeiture Investigative Support Services proposal, the Offeror is agreeing to comply with these terms and conditions.