ESBD_File_335074_RFQ DEAAG Communications Tower.pdf

RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 1 of 41

RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION

READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER

Request for Qualification

149th FW Mission Readiness and Resilience Communications

Enhancements Project (Communications Tower)

2023 - 2024

Procurement Department 2700 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 101

San Antonio, TX 78217 Office (210) 362-5228 Fax (210) 225-5937

RFQ Release Date: August 28, 2023 @ 4:00 p.m.

Response Deadline: September 29, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m.

Questions Deadline: September 8, 2023 @ 4:00 p.m.

Q&A Posting: September 13, 2023 @ 4:00 p.m.

RFQ Links: http://www.aacog.com/bids.aspx https://www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd

Notice: Prospective proposers who receive this document from a source other than AACOG should immediately contact AACOG and provide their name, company, and email address in order that an addendum to the RFQ or other communication can be delivered. Any prospective proposer who fails to provide the agency with this information assumes complete responsibility for complete submission requirements.

http://www.aacog.com/bids.aspx https://www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1.0 – SCOPE OF REQUEST

1.1 - Purpose of Request for Qualifications (RFQ)…

1.2 - Background Information

1.3 - Scope of Work

1.4 - Project Budget

1.5 - Contract and Payments…

1.6 - Respondent Requirements…

1.7 - Service Area

1.8 - Procurement Standard

PART 2.0 - SUBMISSION INFORMATION

2.1 - Response Deadline

2.2 - Procurement Schedule

2.3 - Technical Assistance

2.4 - Availability of Request for Qualification

2.5 - Proprietary Information & Texas Public Information Act

PART 3.0 – GENERAL INFORMATION & ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

3.1 - Eligible Providers

3.2 - Contract Information

3.3 - Governing Provisions and Limitations

3.4 - Administrative Requirement and Limitations

PART 4.0 – QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

4.1 - Evaluation Process

4.2 - Evaluation Criteria

4.3 - Proposer's Acceptance of Evaluation Methodology

4.4 - Procurement Dispute Resolution

PART 5.0 – RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS

5.1 - Number of Copies

5.2 - Response Format…

5.3 - Validity Period

5.4 - Page Limitation

5.5 - Order of Contents

PART 6.0 – QUALIFICATIONS RESPONSE FORMS

6.1 - Qualifications Title Page

6.2 - Table of Contents

6.3 - Executive Summary

6.4 - Narrative

6.5 - Certification Sheet

6.6 - Acknowledgement Form

6.7 - Conflict of Interest Questionnaire

6.8 - Certification Regarding Debarment

6.9 - Non-Discrimination Certification

6.10 - Certification Regarding Lobbying

6.11 - Bidder/Respondent List Request

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EXHIBITS, ATTACHMENTS, APPENDICES

Attachment A - Title Page… Attachment B - Table of Contents… Attachment C - Executive Summary… Attachment D - Narrative… Attachment E - Certification Sheet Attachment F - Acknowledgement Form… Attachment G - Conflict of Interest Questionnaire… Attachment H - Certification Regarding Debarment… Attachment I - Non-Discrimination Certification… Attachment J - Certification Contracts, Grants, Loans, Cooperatives….33 Attachment k - Request To Be Added To Bidder/Vendor List…

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PART 1.0 – SCOPE OF REQUEST

1.1 PURPOSE OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

The Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG), on behalf of the 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard, Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), is requesting qualification from Respondents to install a communications tower on JBSA-Lackland AFB located in San Antonio, TX.

AACOG was the recipient of a Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant from the Texas Military Preparedness Commission to install a 100’ communications tower.

Construction is expected to begin no later than December 1, 2023, with a completion date of April 30, 2024.

1.2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.2.1 Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)

AACOG is a voluntary association of municipal and county governments and special districts located in Bexar County and the surrounding twelve counties.

Defined as a political subdivision of the State of Texas, the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) was established in 1967 under Chapter 391 of the Local Government Code as a voluntary association of local governments and organizations that serves its members through planning, information, and coordination activities. AACOG serves the Alamo Area/State Planning Region 18, which covers 13 counties and 12,582 square miles.

Comprising the area planning region are Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Medina, McMullen, and Wilson counties.

It is AACOG’s policy to treat all persons, potential members, vendors, Respondents, sub-respondents, providers, suppliers, and others fairly, equitably, in a non-discriminatory manner. AACOG employees, as public servants, will execute their duties in a fair and legal manner, avoiding actual or perceived conflicts of interest.

1.2.2 Funding Sources

The Project is being funded through a Texas Military Preparedness Commission grant.

1.3 SCOPE OF WORK

1.3.1 Install a 100’ communications tower to replace the existing tower on JBSA- Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Tx. This will include the installation of four UVU-200 antennas, one TACO D2213 antenna, four LMR-900DB cables, four RG-213 cables, two LMR-9000DB cables, one L1G1A-STD GPS, cable brackets for new cables, removing the existing communications tower, move all existing antennas and cables to the new tower.

1.3.2 Must install ~10-15-foot section of a waveguide ice bridge to transition cables from the newly constructed tower to the existing ice bridge.

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1.3.3 Must install additional cable brackets to run eight new cables from the ice bridge up the outer wall of the building to the penetration point of the building.

1.3.4 Must install two new cable penetration points next to the existing cable penetration points to allow eight cables to transition from the cable brackets on the exterior building wall to the grounding bar(s) on the interior of the building.

1.3.5 Must install an additional grounding bar next to the existing grounding bar(s) on the interior of the building to ground eight additional cables.

1.3.6 Remove the existing communications tower once the new tower is complete and the Air Force has moved all equipment from the existing tower to the new tower.

1.3.7 Monthly project installation reports are due to AACOG on the last day of every month.

1.3.8 Respondent will warrant that its services performed under this RFQ shall comply with all requirements of federal, state and local laws, regulations, environmental considerations, and required permits.

1.3.9 Respondent shall demobilize after the project's completion and leave the site clean.

1.3.10 Supervise/coordinate site visits when requested by the JBSA and/or AACOG.

1.3.11 Proposer warrants that all goods furnished shall be defects-free and conform to the established technical specifications.

1.3.12 Assist in Project Closeout.

1.4 PROJECT BUDGET

Applicants are asked to submit pricing costs for the construction and installation of communication tower infrastructure in the areas identified in 1.3.

1.5 CONTRACT AND PAYMENTS

1.5.1 The contract start period is tentative and will be discussed with the respondent that is awarded. However, the contract is expected to start no later than December 1, 2023, preferably sooner, with an end date of April 30, 2024.

1.5.2 AACOG shall not be liable for any costs incurred by the Respondent in performing this RFQ.

1.5.3 Respondent hereby agrees and acknowledges that Respondent shall not have any claim against AACOG in the event AACOG loses funding from its sources and is unable to continue with this collaboration. In the event of a loss of funding, Respondent will be paid for approved work completed prior to the loss of funding.

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1.6 RESPONDENT REQUIREMENTS

1.6.1 The Respondent will be required to complete an AACOG Vendor Packet.

(See attachments)

1.6.2 The Respondent must ensure that clients are at all times treated respectfully and professionally. The Respondent’s staff must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.

1.6.3 Access rights to Joint Base San Antonio, a federal reservation, will be supplied by the United State Air Force. All Respondents personnel should be eligible for access to Federal facilities.

1.6.4 Respondents must be licensed, certified, and prepared to adhere to when performing work. Respondents should expect unannounced monitoring of records and work sites by AACOG staff and various agencies from the U.S.

Government.

1.6.5 Upon completion of the project, the Respondent must remove all debris from the job site and dispose of it properly and responsibly.

1.6.6 The Respondent will take all precautions necessary to protect all existing trees, shrubbery, plants, sidewalks, buildings, vehicles, etc., in the work area.

1.6.7 The work must be completed in a timely and expeditious manner. The respondent is expected to provide monthly progress reports to AACOG indicating work schedule and work status. AACOG will provide the respondent with the maps and description of the areas for the project.

1.6.8 The Respondent and its sub-respondents are considered independent respondents and shall indemnify and hold harmless AACOG, AACOG staff and program clients from all claims arising from work performed.

1.6.9 The Respondent must furnish all labor and on-site supervision pursuant to the completion of communication tower infrastructure installation within the identified project area on JBSA-Lackland.

1.6.10 Respondent must rebuild, repair, restore, and make good at their own expense all injury and damage that may result from work being performed under this contract.

1.6.11 The Federal Privacy Act of 1974 and related state laws and regulations regulate the proper disclosure of individually identifiable information and/or records. Respondent must take special precautions to protect confidential information from loss, authorized use, access, disclosure, modification, and destruction.

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1.6.12 Performance of this RFQ and all work or obligations covered by and arising out of this RFQ shall be at the risk of the Respondent exclusively. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Respondent shall, with respect to all work or obligations covered by or arising out of this RFQ, or the performance thereof, indemnify, hold harmless and defend AACOG and each of its officers, partners, joint venture partners, representatives and/or employees from and against any and all allegations, losses, claims, actions, demands, damages, liabilities, or expenses (including costs, expenses, and attorney’s fees), arising directly or indirectly from this RFQ, or the performance thereof.

1.6.13 Respondent is responsible for any job-related illness or injury to workers in their employment and shall indemnify and hold harmless AACOG personnel in the event of an on-the-job illness or injury occurs.

1.6.14 CFR 41 Part 60-3/4/20/50 – Obligations of Respondents

and Sub-respondents These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime Respondents and sub-respondents take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans, qualified individuals with disabilities, and all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

1.7 SERVICE AREA

The Service Area for this RFQ is on JBSA-Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX.

1.8 PROCUREMENT STANDARD

It is the policy of AACOG to conduct procurement in a manner that provides for full and open competition. An award will be made only to an organization possessing the qualifications and demonstrated ability to perform successfully under the terms and conditions of a contract. The services solicited under this RFQ are procured under the Competitive Proposal Method through Informal (phone, email, fax) and formal (RFQ) methods.

PART 2.0 - SUBMISSION INFORMATION

2.1 RESPONSE DEADLINE

The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will be posted on Friday, August 28, 2023.

responses may be submitted from August 28, 2023, through Monday, September 29, 2023. Official receipt of responses submitted will be by entry on a responses receipt log. A receipt form will be issued upon request. Respondents who mail a response will be sent a copy of the receipt form upon request. Responses may be hand-delivered prior to the stated deadline between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday or mailed to the following address:

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AACOG

Procurement Department

2700 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78217

Attn: RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION

Responses submitted by mail, courier, or overnight mail services will be received (Monday through Friday) at the above address through September 29, 2023. Faxed or e-mailed responses will not be accepted. Modifications or amendments to a response must comply with the requirements and response deadline. A respondent may withdraw a response at any time during the procurement process by submitting a written request to the address below.

AACOG

Contract and Procurement Manager Procurement Department

2700 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78217

Attn: RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION

2.2 PROCUREMENT SCHEDULE

All time noted on the Procurement Schedule (Page 1) is Central Standard Time.

Dates posted are subject to change. Entities requesting a copy of the RFQ, submitting a request for technical assistance, or registering for the conference call will be notified in writing of any changes in the procurement schedule.

2.3 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

2.3.1 AACOG will accept questions submitted via electronic mail from August 28, 2023 through September 8, 2023.

2.3.2 An Addendum to the RFQ, to include all questions received, will be posted on the AACOG website, Electronic State Business Daily and to all interested parties on September 13, 2023.

2.3.3 No other representative of AACOG is allowed to accept or respond to questions related to this solicitation other than:

Contracts and Procurement Manager Alamo Area Council of Governments

Procurement Department 2700 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 101

San Antonio, TX 78217 dugarte@aacog.com

2.3.4 During the period between the date AACOG issues this RFQ and the date of the selection of the Respondents by AACOG, if any, Respondents shall restrict all contact with AACOG and direct all questions regarding this RFQ, including questions regarding terms and conditions, only to the individual identified above mailto:dugarte@aacog.com

RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 9 of 41 in Section “Inquiries and/or Discrepancies” in the specified manner. Do not contact members of the Board of Directors, other employees of AACOG, or any of AACOG’s agents or administrators. Contact with any of these prohibited individuals after issuance of this RFQ and before selection is made may result in disqualification of the Respondent. The communications prohibition shall terminate when the contract is executed by the respondent and AACOG.

2.3.5 Prohibited communications include direct contact, discussion, or promotion of any Respondent’s submission with any member of AACOG’s Board of Directors or employees except for communications with AACOG’s designated representative as outlined in this RFQ and only in the course of inquiries, briefings, interviews, or presentations. This prohibition is intended to create a level playing field for all potential Respondents, assure that decisions are made in public, and protect the integrity of the RFQ process. Except as provided in the above-stated exceptions, the following communications regarding a particular invitation for bids, requests for application, requests for qualifications, or other solicitation are prohibited:

2.3.5.1 Communications between a potential respondent, service provider, bidder, respondent, lobbyist, consultant, and any member of AACOG’s Board of Directors.

2.3.5.2 Communications between any director and any selection or evaluation committee member.

2.3.5.3 Communications between any director and administrator or employee.

2.3.6 The communications prohibition shall not apply to the following:

2.3.6.1 Communications with AACOG’s purchasing agent specifically named and authorized to conduct and receive such communications under this RFQ or upon the request of AACOG, with AACOG’s general counsel.

2.3.6.2 Presentations to the Board of Directors during any duly noticed public meeting.

2.3.6.3 Nothing contained herein shall prohibit any person or entity from publicly addressing AACOG’s Board of Directors during any duly noticed public meeting, in accordance with applicable Board policies, on a matter other than this RFQ or in connection with a presentation requested by AACOG’s representatives.

2.4 AVAILABILITY OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

The RFQ will be posted as noted on Page 1, RFQ Links, or at the request of the proposer, by contacting procurement staff at the above fax or e-mail beginning August 25, 2023. The RFQ is also available at the above address from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except for holidays). Any interested party that receives this RFQ by means other than directly from AACOG is responsible for notifying AACOG that it has received an RFQ package so that when an addendum to this RFQ is issued, the information can be provided to all interested parties.

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2.5 PROPRIETARY INFORMATION AND THE PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT

2.5.1 Because contracts are awarded by a governmental entity, all responses submitted are subject to release as public information after contracts are executed. If a Respondent believes that its response, or parts of its response, may be exempted from disclosure, the Respondent must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt.

In addition, the Respondent must specify which exception(s) are applicable and provide detailed reasons to substantiate the exception(s). Any unmarked information will be considered public information and released if requested under the Public Information Act.

2.5.2 Determining whether information is confidential and not subject to disclosure is the duty of the Texas Office of Attorney General (OAG). AACOG must provide the OAG sufficient information to render an opinion; therefore, vague and general claims to confidentiality by the Respondent are unacceptable.

AACOG must comply with the opinions of the OAG. AACOG assumes no responsibility for asserting legal arguments on behalf of any Respondent.

Respondents are advised to consult with their legal counsel concerning disclosure issues resulting from this procurement process and to take precautions to safeguard trade secrets and other proprietary information.

After completion of the award, these documents will be available for public inspection.

PART 3.0–GENERAL INFORMATION & ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

3.1 ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS

3.1.1 AACOG expects to receive proposal statements from established and knowledgeable entities with demonstrable expertise in the tasks required. The proposer(s) selected for the contract will become an approved AACOG vendor responsible for tasks outlined in the Scope of Work.

3.1.2 It is the policy of AACOG to encourage participation by small and historically underutilized businesses (HUBs), as defined in Government Code, Chapter 2161, as Respondents to AACOG. AACOG aims to include HUBs in at least ten percent (10%) of the total value of contracts awarded annually.

3.1.3 To be eligible for consideration:

3.1.3.1 Licensed to do business in the State of Texas.

3.1.3.2 Document three (3) years of experience in communications tower construction and installation.

3.1.3.3 Licenses and Certifications associated with constructing and installing communication tower infrastructure.

3.1.4 AACOG is prohibited from contracting with any entity debarred, suspended, RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 11 of 41 or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation. Accordingly, a contract requires Respondents to certify that they are in compliance with the Federal regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Debarment and Suspension, 29 CFR Part 98, Section 98-510, Participant’s Responsibilities.

To the best of its knowledge and belief, the respondent must certify that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by a Federal department or agency.

3.1.5 Proposers must be knowledgeable of communications tower infrastructure or other related topics and research, including statutes, regulations, rules and policies, and all services outlined within this RFQ, and must accurately apply them in developing the RFQ response.

3.1.6 Respondents must possess the knowledge, experience and expertise, professional judgment, and capacity within their organization to perform the services and activities requested under this RFQ and meet high standards for public service and fiduciary responsibility.

3.2 CONTRACT INFORMATION

3.2.1 TYPE OF CONTRACT: This Request for Qualifications may result in a contract, assuming a respondent is selected and an award made. There will be no guarantee of work assigned or awarded.

3.2.2 CONTRACT PERIOD: It is the intent of AACOG to execute a contract for the delivery of services identified for an initial period beginning on or about December 1, 2023, and ending on April 30, 2024. AACOG reserves the right to terminate a contract at any time based on Respondent performance or noncompliance, however, no contract under this RFQ will exceed 12 months.

3.2.3 ADDITIONAL FUNDING: AACOG reserves the right to expand the contract to include additional tasks in the qualification’s response that AACOG deems beneficial to the area.

3.2.4 REASSIGNMENT: In the event a Respondent fails to perform as required, AACOG reserves the right to terminate the contract early and assign the contract in whole or in part to a comparably ranked proposer/response obtained through this procurement, subject to successful contract negotiations.

3.2.5 Termination for Convenience: By 30 days written notice by either party provided that the Respondent shall be required to satisfactorily complete all projects in progress at the time notice is given.

3.2.6 Termination for Cause: In the event of a breach of this RFQ by either party hereto that is not remedied within five (5) working days after delivery of written notice of such

RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 12 of 41 breach, the non-breaching party may terminate this RFQ by providing ten

(10) days' written notice to the other party of their intent to terminate this RFQ.

3.3 GOVERNING PROVISIONS AND LIMITATIONS

Violation of any of the following provisions may cause a response to be disqualified and rejected from consideration:

3.3.1 The response, if accepted, will become the basis for the contract scope of work.

3.3.2 Respondents must submit a comprehensive response for all services solicited. Any response that is not comprehensive will be deemed non-responsive.

3.3.3 The only purpose of this RFQ is to ensure uniform information in soliciting responses for the procurement of identified services. This RFQ is not to be construed as a purchase agreement, contract, or a commitment of any kind;

nor does it commit AACOG to pay for costs incurred prior to the execution of a formal contract unless such costs are specifically authorized in writing by

AACOG.

3.3.4 AACOG reserves the right to accept or reject any or all responses received and to cancel or reissue this RFQ in part or its entirety.

3.3.5 AACOG reserves the right to award a contract(s) for any services solicited in this RFQ in any quantity AACOG determines is in its best interests.

3.3.6 AACOG reserves the right to extend, shorten, increase, or decrease any contract awarded as a result of this RFQ.

3.3.7 AACOG reserves the right to request additional information, clarification, or explanation for any aspect of a response to this RFQ.

3.3.8 AACOG reserves the right to waive any minor defect in the procurement process or to correct any error(s) and/or make changes to this solicitation it deems necessary. AACOG will provide notifications of any changes in this RFQ to all interested parties having requested or received a copy of this RFQ.

3.3.9 AACOG reserves the right to negotiate the final terms of any and all contracts or agreements with selected proposers, and any such terms negotiated as a result of this RFQ may be renegotiated and/or amended in order to successfully meet the needs of the regional area.

3.3.10 AACOG reserves the right to contact any individual, agency, employer, or granting agencies listed in a response, contact others who may have experience and/or knowledge of the respondent’s relevant performance and/or qualifications, and to request additional information from any and all respondents.

3.3.11 AACOG reserves the right to conduct on-site reviews of records, systems, RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 13 of 41 procedures, including credit and criminal background checks of any entity selected for funding under this RFQ. This may occur either before or after the award of a contract or agreement. Any misrepresentation of the proposer’s ability to perform as stated in the RFQ response may result in the cancellation of any contract or agreement awarded.

3.3.12 AACOG reserves the right to withdraw or reduce the amount of an award or to cancel any contract or agreement resulting from this RFQ if adequate funding is not received by AACOG from funding sources or due to legislative changes.

3.3.13 Respondents shall not, under penalty of law, offer or provide any gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value to any officer, board member, employee, response evaluator, or agent of AACOG or elected official for purposes of having an influencing effect on this procurement.

3.3.14 Respondents shall not attempt in any manner to advocate for, lobby, or otherwise attempt to influence any officer, board member, employee, response evaluator, or agent of AACOG or elected official for purposes of having an influencing effect on this procurement.

3.3.15 No officer, board member, employee, response evaluator, or agent of AACOG shall participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract if a conflict of interest, or potential conflict, is involved.

3.3.16 Respondents shall not engage in any activity that will restrict or eliminate competition. Violation of this provision will cause a respondent’s submission to be disqualified and rejected. This does not preclude joint ventures or subcontracts.

3.3.17 The contents of a successful response will become a contractual obligation if selected for the award of a contract. Failure of a respondent to accept this obligation may result in the cancellation of an award. No plea of error or mistake shall be available to the successful proposer as a basis for release from proposed services at the stated price/cost. Any damages assessed by AACOG as a result of a successful proposer’s failure to contract with AACOG may be recovered from the proposer.

3.3.18 A contract with a selected proposer may be withheld, at the sole discretion of

AACOG, if issues of contract or questions of non-compliance, questioned/disallowed costs, audit/monitoring findings, or legal issues exist until such issues are satisfactorily resolved.

3.3.19 AACOG is legally exempt from paying State Sales Tax and Federal Excise

Tax.

3.3.20 Respondent shall retain all records for a minimum period of seven (7) years after AACOG makes final payment and all other pending matters are closed.

This requirement is to assure fair settlement of disputes or complaints that may arise, as well as to fulfill federal audit requirements. This requirement survives the termination of this RFQ for any reason.

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3.3.21 Respondent shall submit to AACOG all documentation or forms required by funding sources, including materials, tools, equipment, and other specifications as required by AACOG, EDA, EPA, DOL, DoD, Texas Military Preparedness Commission, etc. This requirement survives the termination of this RFQ for any reason.

3.3.22 Respondents shall keep all work documentation in a separate client file for each housing unit weatherized.

3.3.23 NON-DISCRIMINATION AND EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

Respondents provides its assurance that it will comply with all requirements of applicable Federal and State laws that no person providing or receiving services under this contract will be excluded from participation or be otherwise subjected to discrimination because of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or political affiliation or belief.

3.4 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENT AND LIMITATIONS

3.4.1 Respondent will be required to procure all insurances required by this RFQ and to list AACOG as an additional insured on each policy prior to the commencement of any work pursuant to a contract executed as a result of this RFQ when applicable (or if funding becomes available). Liability coverage and deductibles must be acceptable to AACOG

3.4.2 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS – Respondent will be required to provide proof of general liability and casualty insurance coverage prior to contract execution:

3.4.2.1 Workers Compensation Statutory Limits

• Employers Liability: Each Accident $1,000,000.00

• Disease – Each Employee $1,000,000.00

• Disease – Policy Limit $1,000,000.00

3.4.2.2 Commercial General Liability (Occurrence Based)

• Bodily Injury and Property Damage

• Each Occurrence Limit: $1,000,000.00

• Aggregate Limit: $2,000,000.00

• Medical Expenses for Each Person: $5,000.00

• Personal Injury and Advertising Liability: $1,000,000.00

• Products/Completed Operations Aggregate Limit $2,000,000.00

• Damage to Premises Rented to You: $50,000.00

3.4.3 Respondents must demonstrate the administrative and fiscal capability necessary to successfully provide required services and meet federal grant financial accountability requirements when applicable (or if funding becomes available).

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3.4.4 AACOG-sponsored respondents must agree to comply with AACOG rules, policies, directives, procedures, plans, and unilateral contract modifications.

3.4.5 AACOG Respondents are subject to compliance monitoring. At any time during normal business hours, and as often as deemed necessary, AACOG, EDA, or any of their duly authorized representatives shall have complete access to any books, invoices, payrolls, timesheets, or any other records or papers which are related to a contract resulting from this RFQ for the purpose of verifying contractual, program and financial compliance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies.

3.4.6 Respondent must provide reports upon demand as may be requested or required by AACOG.

3.4.7 Private for-profit corporations submitting a response must include a statement signed by an authorized representative of the corporation authorizing submission of the response.

3.4.8 AACOG shall require the respondent to remove any employee or staff member from the contract who is alleged (accused, arrested, or charged) to have committed a disqualifying offense subsequent to the background check performed. The Respondents must immediately notify AACOG when it becomes aware of the alleged offense to determine if it disqualifies the employee or staff member from continuing to work under the contract.

3.4.9 Respondents must possess the knowledge, experience and expertise, professional judgment, and capacity within their organization to perform the services and activities requested under this RFQ.

PART 4.0 – QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

4.1 EVALUATION PROCESS: The evaluation process will consist of:

4.1.1 An initial review of responsiveness and eligibility with the criteria specified in the RFQ by AACOG personnel.

4.1.2 All eligible responses will be evaluated and scored by an independent team of reviewers. Proposer’s qualifications will be evaluated on specific criteria outlined in Section 4.2 by reviewers using a standardized scoring matrix.

4.1.3 Applicants will be determined:

4.1.3.1 Acceptable for contract

4.1.3.2 Deficient

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4.1.3.3 Not eligible.

4.1.4 Responses determined to be deficient will be notified of the deficiency and allowed to reapply upon correction.

4.2 EVALUATION CRITERIA

4.2.1 Organizational Capacity 25 points

4.2.1.1 Business Organization: State full name and address of your organization and identify the parent company if you are a subsidiary.

Specify the branch office or other subordinate element which will perform, or assist in performing, work herein. Indicate whether you operate as a partnership, corporation, or individual. Include the State where the organization is incorporated or licensed to operate and your current Lead Safety Certification. Provide the total number of full-time employees.

4.2.1.2 System Concept and Solution: Define in detail your

understanding of the requirements presented in the Scope of Work of this request for Qualifications and your system solution. Provide all details as required in the Scope of Work and any additional information you deem necessary to evaluate your knowledge of communication tower construction.

4.2.1.3 Project Management Structure: Provide a general explanation and chart which specifies project leadership and reporting responsibilities; and who will interface with the AACOG project management and team personnel. Provide a detailed description of fiscal controls, reporting capabilities, and performance accountability protocol. If the use of sub respondents is proposed, identify their placement in the primary management structure, and provide an internal management description for each sub respondent.

4.2.1.4. Personnel: Include the names and qualifications of all professional personnel who will be assigned to this project. State the primary work task assigned to each person and the percentage of time each person will devote to this work.

4.2.2 Demonstrated Performance 45 points

4.2.2.1 Prior Experience: Describe only relevant corporate experience and individual experience for personnel who will be actively engaged in the project. Provide at least three references. Do not include corporate experience unless personnel assigned to this project actively participated. Do not include experience prior to 2020. Supply the project title, year, and reference name, title, present address, and phone number of the principal person for whom prior projects were accomplished.

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4.2.3 Cost Effectiveness 25 points

4.2.3.1 Cost: Provide expected cost breakdown for construction, including labor, equipment, and materials. Provide an average length of time to complete such as project.

4.2.4 Experience Working on Federal Facilities 5 points

4.2.4.1 Prior Experience: Supply the project title, year, and reference name, title, present address, and phone number of the principal person for whom prior projects were accomplished.

4.3 PROPOSER’S ACCEPTANCE OF EVALUATION METHODOLOGY

By submitting a response, Proposer acknowledges:

4.3.1 Proposer’s acceptance of the evaluation process

4.3.2 The criteria for selection

4.3.3 Proposer’s recognition that certain subjective judgments may be generated during evaluation.

4.4 PROCUREMENT DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Appeal and Debriefing Process

4.4.1 Appeal Process

4.4.1.1 Proposers not selected for funding may appeal only with respect to any fault or violation of law or regulation regarding the procurement process. Appeals must be filed within ten calendar days of receipt of AACOG notification of final action. Appeals shall be directed to:

Contracts and Procurement Manager

Procurement Department 2700 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 101

San Antonio, TX 78217

4.4.1.2 The appeal must indicate the AACOG action appealed and the violation, which forms the basis for the appeal and shall be signed by the Proposers organization’s authorized representative. Fax and e-mail transmittals will not be accepted. The filing of the appeal must be within the time frame identified. There is no relief accorded appellants for not filing within the published deadlines. Hearings are at the discretion of AACOG and shall be conducted in accordance with existing AACOG procedures.

4.4.1.3 Proposers must provide a detailed statement of legal and factual grounds, including copies of relevant documents; and the form of relief requested.

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4.4.1.4 Proposers may NOT appeal the scoring and ranking of responses unless substantiated by material or relevant facts.

4.4.1.5 Proposers may NOT appeal solely on the belief that their response is superior to the one selected for award.

4.4.1.6 Proposers understand that review and action shall be considered final, with no further formalities considered.

4.4.2 Debriefing Process

Proposers not selected by this procurement process, and have elected not to file an appeal, may submit within ten days of the receipt of AACOG notification of the procurement decision a Request for Debriefing to obtain information on the procurement process and how their response or offer was received and ranked. AACOG shall acknowledge receipt of the Request for Debriefing in writing within ten days of receipt, along with the date and time of the scheduled debriefing. The debriefing shall be scheduled as soon as possible and no later than ten days from the receipt of the Request for Debriefing. A debriefing is offered as a courtesy to any bidder who is not selected for funding. The purpose of the debriefing is to promote the exchange of information, explain the evaluation system, and help unsuccessful bidders understand why they were not selected.

PART 5.0 – RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS

5.1 NUMBER OF COPIES

5.1.1 NUMBER OF COPIES

Respondents must submit one (1) unbound complete original, to include all executed certifications and authorized signatures, plus four (4) copies, for a total of five (5) exact responses. Finally, one (1) electronic copy of your response on a flash drive is required. Any submission lacking the required number of responses may be ruled non-responsive and may not be considered under this procurement. Any differences between the original and the copies are the liability of the respondent.

5.2 RESPONSE FORMAT

5.2.1 Submission must be typed, single-spaced, and submitted on 8 ½ x 11-inch plain white paper.

5.2.2 Please do not use less than a 10-point font.

5.2.3 Each page of the response, with the exception of the cover sheet, must be sequentially numbered, including attachments.

5.2.4 Submissions must contain all required elements in the order prescribed.

5.2.5 Submissions that do not conform to this requirement may be considered non-responsive and excluded from consideration under this procurement.

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5.3 VALIDITY PERIOD

Each submission will remain valid for AACOG’s acceptance for a minimum of thirty

(30) days after the submittal deadline to allow for evaluation, selection, and Board action.

5.4 PAGE LIMITATION

Respondents are asked to keep responses brief, concise, and to the point, with a maximum 3-page limit for the Executive Summary and a 5-page limit for the Narrative.

5.5 ORDER OF CONTENTS

Responses must follow the format below. All items must be clearly labeled and in the exact order shown below. Compile the response in the following order:

5.5.1 Title Page

5.5.2 Table of Contents

5.5.3 Executive Summary (maximum 1-page limit)

5.5.4 Narrative (please refer to criteria in section 6.4 for order of narrative; maximum

5-page limit not including attachments)

5.5.5 Certification Sheet

5.5.6 Acknowledgement Form

5.5.7 Conflict of Interest Questionnaire

5.5.8 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility, and Voluntary Exclusion

5.5.9 Non-Discrimination Certification

5.5.10 Certification Regarding Lobbying

5.5.11 Request to be added to AACOG Bidder’s/Respondent List

PART 6.0 – QUALIFICATIONS RESPONSE FORMS

6.1 QUALIFICATIONS TITLE PAGE (Attachment A)

Each submission must be accompanied by a complete title page. Respondents must designate a contact person responsible for all communications concerning the response and notification of award. Respondents must also designate a person with documented signatory authority and for contract negotiations.

6.2 TABLE OF CONTENTS (Attachment B)

Each submission must have a Table of Contents that lists each response item, including attachments, with corresponding page numbers. Clearly identify the material by section and page number.

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6.3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (Attachment C)

Provide a brief summary highlighting your organization’s history, qualifications, experience, the overall approach to delivering the services solicited in this RFQ, and any unique or innovative aspects of your response. Briefly state the proposer's understanding of the service to be provided and make a positive commitment to perform the work in a timely manner.

6.4 NARRATIVE (Attachment D)

Include all Information below.

6.4.1 Organizational Capacity

6.4.1.1 Business Organization: State full name and address of your organization and identify the parent company if you are a subsidiary.

Specify the branch office or other subordinate element which will perform, or assist in performing, work herein. Indicate whether you operate as a partnership, corporation, or individual. Include the State where the organization is incorporated or licensed to operate and your current Lead Safety Certification. Provide the total number of full-time employees.

6.4.1.2 System Concept and Solution: Define in detail your

understanding of the requirements presented in the Scope of Work of this request for Qualifications and your system solution. Provide all details as required in the Scope of Work and any additional information you deem necessary to evaluate your knowledge of communication tower construction.

6.4.1.3 Project Management Structure: Provide a general explanation and chart which specifies project leadership and reporting responsibilities; and who will interface with the AACOG project management and team personnel. Provide a detailed description of fiscal controls, reporting capabilities, and performance accountability protocol. If the use of sub-respondents is proposed, identify their placement in the primary management structure, and provide an internal management description for each sub-respondent.

6.4.1.4 Personnel: Include the names and qualifications of all professional personnel who will be assigned to this project. State the primary work task assigned to each person and the percentage of time each person will devote to this work.

6.4.2 Demonstrated Performance

6.4.2.1 Prior Experience: Describe only relevant corporate experience and individual experience for personnel for the past three (3) years who will be actively engaged in the project. Do not include corporate experience unless personnel assigned to this project actively participated. Do not include experience prior to 2020. Supply the project title, year, and reference name, title, present address, and phone number of the principal person for whom prior projects were

RFQ-23-144-149th FW MISSION READINESS-COMMUNICATIONS TOWER Page 21 of 41 accomplished.

6.4.3 Cost Effectiveness

6.4.3.1 Cost: Provide the expected average cost for construction, installation, and materials. Provide an average length of time to complete such as project.

6.4.4 Experience Working on Federal Facilities

6.4.4.1 Prior Experience: Supply the project title, year, and reference name, title, present address, and phone number of the principal person for whom prior projects were accomplished.

6.5 CERTIFICATION SHEET (Attachment E) (complete and sign form)

6.6 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM (Attachment F) (complete and sign form)

6.7 CONFLICT OF INTEREST QUESTIONNAIRE (Attachment G) (complete and sign form) If a conflict exists. You may review the Agency’s current Board of Directors at http://www.aacog.com/AboutAACOG/Board/default.asp

6.8 CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT (Attachment H) (complete and sign form)

6.9 NON-DISCRIMINATION CERTIFICATION (Attachment I) (complete and sign form)

6.10 CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING (Attachment J) (complete and sign form)

6.11 REQUEST TO BE ADDED TO BIDDER’S/RESPONDENT’S LIST

http://www.aacog.com/AboutAACOG/Board/default.asp

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ATTACHMENT A

Q UALI F I CAT IO NS TITLE PAGE

149th FW Mission Readiness and Resilience Communications Enhancements Project

(Communications Tower)

Legal Name of Proposing Entity

Name of Owner/Director of Entity

Title

Mailing Address

Physical Address (If different than mailing)

Telephone Number

Fax Number

E-mail Address

Contract Signatory Authority & Title

Federal Tax ID Number

Historically Under-Utilized Business? If “yes”, attach copy of current certification.

Yes No

Legal/Tax Status of Organization

Corporation Sole Proprietor

Partnership Other

(Specify)

Service Requested

Communications Tower Construction

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ATTACHMENT B

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ATTACHMENT C

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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ATTACHMENT D

NARRATIVE

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ATTACHMENT E

CERTIFICATION SHEET

All specifications and terms and conditions of the RFQ have been read.

Our Company accepts the specifications and conditions unless otherwise accepted in writing to the Executive Director, Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG).

Company Name:

Mailing Address:

City: State Zip Code Phone: Fax:

Web Site:

Email:

Name of Representative authorized to sign for bidder:

(Print name) (Signature)

(a) Does your "residence state" require bidders whose principal place of business is in Texas to underbid bidders whose residence state is the same as yours by a prescribed amount or percentage to receive a comparable contract? "Residence State" is defined as the state in which the principal place of business is located.

YES NO

(b) What is that amount or percentage?

I certify that the above information is correct:

Name:

Position:

Signature:

Date:

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ATTACHMENT F

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Having carefully examined the terms and conditions and specifications within this RFQ document, the undersigned Proposer's Agent hereby proposes and agrees to furnish the proposed product(s)/service(s) in strict compliance with the specifications as quoted.

The Proposer affirms that, to the best of his knowledge, the response has been arrived at independently and is submitted without collusion with anyone to obtain information or gain any favoritism that would in any way limit competition or give them an unfair advantage over other bidders in the award of this RFQ.

The Proposer affirms that he/she has not participated in any act of favoritism, gratuity, or inside dealings with any member of the staff of AACOG or its Board of Directors.

Company Name:

President/Designee:

Position:

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ATTACHMENT G (page 1)

CONFLICT OF INTEREST QUESTIONNAIRE FORM CIQ

For vendor or other person doing business with local governmental entity This questionnaire reflects changes made to the law by H.B. 1491, 80th Leg., Regular Session.

This questionnaire is being filed in accordance with chapter 176, Local Government Code by a person who has a business relationship as defined by Section 176.001 (1-a) with a local governmental entity and the person meets requirements under Section 176.006(a).

By law this questionnaire must be filed with the records administrator of the local government entity not later than the 7th business day after the date the person becomes aware of facts that require the statement to be filed. See Section 176.006, Local Government Code.

A person commits an offense if the person violates Section 176.006, Local Government Code.

An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

OFFICE USE ONLY

Date Received

1.

Name of person who has a business relationship with local governmental entity.

2.

Check this box if you are filing an update to a previously filed questionnaire.

(The law requires that you file an updated completed questionnaire with the appropriate filing authority not later than the 7th business day after the date the originally filed questionnaire becomes incomplete or inaccurate.)

3.

Name of local government office with whom filer has employment or business relationship.

This section (item 3 including subparts A, B, C & D) must be completed for each officer with whom the filer has an employment or other business relationship as defined by Section 176.001 (1-a), Local Government Code. Attach additional pages to this Form CIQ as necessary.

A. Is the local government officer named in this section receiving or likely to receive taxable income, other than investment income, from the filer of the questionnaire?

B. Is the filer of the questionnaire receiving or likely to receive taxable income, other than investment…