WWTP_QA.pdf

WWTP – Q&A

(Responses provided in Italics)

• Do we need a Level 4 Operator by the start date?

Yes, see PWS section 4.1.4 “The Contractor shall provide an on-site Contract Manager (CM), serving in a full-time position to oversee and coordinate the work described in this PWS. The CM must have and maintain a Level 4 Wastewater Certification in New Mexico. The CM appointment shall be designated in writing to the CO, no later than the contract start date.”

• Are the liners in the basin leaking or scheduled to be replaced?

The liners have accumulated several tears due to sun damage/weather. The liners have ultimately reached their lifespan and are slated to be replaced in the coming months via an Engineering project. If there are any tears in the liner where leaking has occurred, remediation will occur as part of that same project.

• How do we prove the Contractor has a Level 4 Operator who has the proper certifications before the PoP start date?

See PWS section 4.1.4 “In addition to required certifications, the CM shall have a minimum of 6 years of experience in work related to performance under this contract.”

See also the Combo Solicitation, specifically “PART I – Technical Capability Subfactor I:

Staffing Plan Description: Offerors shall submit a staffing plan demonstrating their ability to operate the WWTP on a continuous 24/7 basis. The staffing plan shall include: 1. A description of how personnel will be organized and scheduled to ensure continuous operations, and a developmental plan for each certification level. 2. A resume for the proposed Contract Manager showing certification as a Level IV operator in the State of New Mexico. The Contract Manager shall be available by the contract start date of 01 MARCH 2026. 3. An example staffing schedule covering a 30-day period that demonstrates shift coverage for all hours.”

• How many operators are on at one time?

Our current contractor staffs the WWTP with 2 daytime operators (one of which is our Level 4) M-F, and one nighttime operator. On Saturday and Sunday, there is one daytime and one nighttime operator. That is the basic framework that they typically utilize, but do flex from time to time to ensure operator safety when contingencies occur, and to maintain plant/operator safety. This information is provided as historical data only.

See PWS section 4.1.4 “The Contractor shall operate, maintain, and staff the WWTP with the appropriate number of personnel and work hours to satisfy all requirements of this contract.”

See also the Combo Solicitation, specifically “PART I – Technical Capability Subfactor I:

Staffing Plan Description: Offerors shall submit a staffing plan demonstrating their ability to operate the WWTP on a continuous 24/7 basis. The staffing plan shall include: 1. A description of how personnel will be organized and scheduled to ensure continuous operations, and a developmental plan for each certification level. 2. A resume for the proposed Contract Manager showing certification as a Level IV operator in the State of New Mexico. The Contract Manager shall be available by the contract start date of 01 MARCH 2026. 3. An example staffing schedule covering a 30-day period that demonstrates shift coverage for all hours.”

• Do we perform any freshwater treatment?

No, this contract is for the Operations and Maintenance of our Wastewater Treatment Plant only.

• Do we discharge or reuse the water?

The base has 3 authorized discharge locations for treated wastewater: the treated basin, the North Playa and the golf course impoundments. Currently we do not reuse or irrigate wastewater on Cannon AFB.

• How much chlorine do we use on a daily basis?

• Between 4-16 gallons per day (extended range to include summer variation), depending on the season and demand.

• What items are on the ERR?

Completed items include:

• Replacement of our five primary blowers that power our SBRs (x3) and Digesters (x2), and replacement of our standby blower.

• Replacement of MCC-C Panel.

• Repair of five drying bed drains, and replacement of the sand and media filters within the drains, as well as replacement of the asphalt within said drying beds.

• Replacement of our chlorination mixer motor and dichlorination mixer motor for our

Chlorine Contact Basin.

Items to be completed include:

• Raw and treated basin liner replacement

• Chlorine Contact Basin valve replacements (x6)

• Godwin Pump replacement

• Huber Headworks restoration including the replacement of the rake system, grit auger, grease skimmer, screw pumps and electrical panel.

• Do we require any load testing for the generators?

No, Generators on site at the plant are maintained by 27 SOCES’ Power Pro shop.

• How often do we clean out the High Tech?

• It's a weekly task.

• Any seepage problems near the SBR?

There are no infrastructure leaks or seepage around the SBRs.

• Are the chemicals such as chlorine provided?

No, chlorine sourcing, scheduling and delivery is arranged by the contractor as part of the O&M of the WWTP.

• Are we updating the SCADA?

No, the government will be updating the SCADA in conjunction with a future modernization project.

• Is the SCADA system new or will there be option to update?

See above response. Updating the SCADA is something that needs to occur in conjunction with other upgrades, otherwise systems cannot/will not be able to communicate properly.

• Is there any local Support with the SCADA?

Our SCADA system is proprietary via Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc., which is not local, so unfortunately no. We have had technicians come out to Cannon AFB to conduct repairs when the need arises.

• What is the GFP around the Plant and in the Control Room?

Current contract includes as GFP/GFE the following items: Parker Trailer, Dell Computer, Vizio TV Monitor, Facility Keys, Lab-Line Instruments Lab Refridgerator, Hamilton Scientific Balance Table, Satorious Analytical Balance, Thermo Scientific Furnace Muffle, E. Coli Water Incubator, two Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), and a Plantpro BoD Incubator.

• Do we operate manually or with the SCADA?

Certain components of the SCADA do not allow for you to make manipulations via the SCADA, and must be done so manually. Other components do allow for you to make manipulations and will then be carried out automatically.

• Can we get a copy of the discharge permit?

That document cannot be provided prior to award.

• What do we do with compost?

Currently, all compost is kept on site.

• Will the Government allow a cover page or cover letter addressing the NAICS-related information required that is outside the 10-page limit?

No

• Does the Government want the incomplete PPIFs submitted as part of the Factor 2 response? Are these included in the 10-page limit?

The PPIFs will not be included in the 10 page limit. All PPIFs will be complete and sent directly from references of your choice.

• If PPIFs are not to be included with the proposal response (and will be sent directly to the Government as requested), does the Government want past performance writeups/descriptions of the referenced projects as part of Subfactor 1 of Part II - Past Performance included in the proposal? Are these included in the 10-page limit?

No, all past performance writeups and descriptions will be gained from PPIFs. There will be previous examples from prior wastewater plants of their maintenance plans under Part 1- Technical Capability.

• Does the Government want copies of any CPARs for the projects described included with the proposal? Are these included in the 10-page If we are not include CPARs with the proposal, what is required in response to Subfactor II under Part II - Past Performance?

Offerors will not provide any CPARS information as this will be pulled by the Contracting Office and will not be part of the 10 Page limit.

• Is the CM resume included in the 10-page limit?

The Contract Managers resume is apart of the 10 page limit.

• Are the 2-5 maintenance plans included in the 10-page limit or can those be provided as an Appendix outside of the page limit?

Subfactor II.1: Past Preventative Maintenance Plan; will not be included in the 10 page limit, but must provide a summary sheet along with the examples as attachments.

• Is the Environmental Compliance Plan included in the 10-page limit or can that be provided as an Appendix outside of the page limit?

The environmental compliance plan is included in the 10 page limit.

• Is the Pricing proposal outside of the 10-page limit?

The pricing proposal is included in the 10 page limit.

• Could the Gov provide Base Civil engineering Policies and Instructions on environmental compliance?

This document was provided. Please see Attachment 1 WWTP Performance Work Statement dated Nov 26 2025, then once opened Attachment 2. CAFB & MAFR Civilian Contractor Environmental Guide.

• What "additional external lab testing" will be required under CLIN 0003?

At the present time, no additional external lab testing is required, but we wanted to ensure we had a CLIN should the situation/requirement arise.

• Will the Government please provide a copy of the permit(s) associated with the contract?

That document cannot be provided pre-award.

• Critical components 1.3.1.1. Is it the Government's intent that critical components shall be replaced/repaired using CMRR funds?

Generally, yes that would be the intent, however given that some repairs/replacements must be planned/budgeted due to higher costs. Think of CMRR funds as more routine/incidental repairs to keep the WWTP operational with a couple of larger fixes (1-2) per option year.

• Outside scope of CMRR 1.3.2. How is the Contractor to determine what repairs are outside of the CMRR?

The contractor would determine this via discussion with the COR and CONS but the PWS defines CMRR in section 1.3.2 as work that does not include alteration or modernization (changes beyond maintaining full and safe operation).

• Project during this contract 1.3.2.5. Confirm that the Government will provide all costs and perform all necessary means to implement temporary controls during short and long-term project work so the Contractor may be able to operate the WWTP without undue expense.

Not sure what you mean by implementation of temporary controls. Can you better define what concerns?

• If the “proprietary” SCADA System experiences a failure, who is responsible for the failure?

It depends on the failure, ultimately if there were a SCADA system failure, 27 SOCES’ IT person would first see if the program could be brought back online, or restored via program copy, but if that cannot resolve the problem and an AquaAerobics visit should be required, that would be CMRR as it is a fix/repair to the current SCADA system in place.

• What are the quantities of the chemicals purchased on a normal year?

We have about 110 distinct chemicals used for the lab and maintenance. Typically, we produce two orders per month of 2-4 items; this would suggest a range 48-96 items/year purchased.

• What is the waste composed of?

Most of the waste consists of organic material and water.

• Will all waste be removed prior to the beginning of the new contract?

No, it will not be. Due to current situations our compost is stockpiled at the plant. Additionally, as this contract will be awarded in the cold/rainy months, there will be some materials that are not dried out enough within the drying beds at the time of award.

Should we reach a juncture where materials at the plant are too numerous, disposal can be discussed then as that will vary depending on the waste characterization.

• What are all the potential sources of metals contaminants in the waste?

We don't test for trace chemical contaminants, the expectation is that we receive a degree of cleaning products, various types of lubricants, and fuel in small quantities.

• What is the environmental impact of solids waste dumping?

This is not applicable as we are currently not reusing any compost.

• Is the tractor onsite government property?

No, it is not, it belongs to the current contractor.

• Discharge Permit Documentation

• Please provide a complete copy of the current discharge permit (DP-874), including all applicable conditions, limitations, and reporting requirements.

• If there have been any amendments or renewals, please include those as well.

That document cannot be provided pre-award.

• Sludge Disposal Responsibilities

• Clarify which party (owner, contractor, or subcontractor) is responsible for covering sludge disposal costs.

• Please specify whether disposal fees, transportation, and tipping charges are included under this responsibility.

See section 1.5, The Contractor shall provide sludge, grit and grease disposal at a frequency sufficient to maintain a clean and orderly collection site. The Contractor shall only dispose of sludge after it has achieved at least eighty percent (80%) dry weight by volume and with approval from 27 SOCES Environmental and the COR.

• Sludge Handling Equipment

• Identify who is responsible for supplying the necessary equipment for sludge handling

(e.g., pumps, containers, transport vehicles).

• Confirm whether the equipment is provided by the facility, contractor, or another designated party.

See section 1, The Contractor shall provide all management, tools, supplies, parts, equipment, certified personnel and labor, necessary to ensure that wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) services are performed and maintained at Cannon AFB. Thus, the contractor would provide the necessary equipment as our current contractor does.

• Grounds Maintenance Equipment

• Please confirm who provides the equipment required for grounds maintenance (e.g., mowers, trimmers, snow removal tools).

• If the facility provides equipment, clarify whether fuel, maintenance, and storage are also included.

See section 1, The Contractor shall provide all management, tools, supplies, parts, equipment, certified personnel and labor, necessary to ensure that wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) services are performed and maintained at Cannon AFB. Thus, the contractor would provide the necessary equipment as our current contractor does.

• Flow Data

• Provide the average daily flow (ADF) for the last two years, broken down by month if available.

• Please also indicate any seasonal variations or anomalies that may affect operations.

For FY24 – 71.854 million gallons and FY25 – 71.327 million gallons were received at the plant as influent. On average we receive between 180-215K gallons per day with seasonal variations/operations affecting that number since the plant does receive all the storm water from the base as well so higher levels of precipitation can drastically effect the influent. Additionally, weekends tend to skew on the lower end as most of the base population works Monday-Friday.

• Proposal Due Date

• We respectfully request an extension of the proposal due date to 31 January 2026.

We will be extending the due date of the solicitation to 15 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM MST.

• Page Count Limitation

• Will the government consider increasing the page count limit for the technical section to 25 pages?

The 10 page count limit will stay as part of the solicitation but Subfactor II.1 Past Preventative Maintenance Plan will be excluded. Please see attached revised COMBO.

• Past Performance Information Form

• Can the offeror use a teaming partner’s past performance in this section?

Yes you can.

• Staffing Plan

• Can the proposed Project Manager, in place of the required Contract Manager position, be considered the Level IV operator in the State of New Mexico if they hold the required certification?

The on-site contract manager must hold the proper certification per the PWS. See section 4.1.4:

The Contractor shall operate, maintain, and staff the WWTP with the appropriate number of personnel and work hours to satisfy all requirements of this contract. The Contractor shall provide an on-site Contract Manager (CM), serving in a full-time position to oversee and coordinate the work described in this PWS. The CM must have and maintain a Level 4 Wastewater Certification in New Mexico. The CM appointment shall be designated in writing to the CO, no later than the contract start date.

See also the Combo Solicitation, specifically “PART I – Technical Capability Subfactor I:

Staffing Plan Description: Offerors shall submit a staffing plan demonstrating their ability to operate the WWTP on a continuous 24/7 basis. The staffing plan shall include: 1. A description of how personnel will be organized and scheduled to ensure continuous operations, and a developmental plan for each certification level. 2. A resume for the proposed Contract Manager showing certification as a Level IV operator in the State of New Mexico. The Contract Manager shall be available by the contract start date of 01 MARCH 2026. 3. An example staffing schedule covering a 30-day period that demonstrates shift coverage for all hours.”

• Maintenance Plan

• Is there a page limit on these examples, or will the government consider them excluded from the overall page count?

Please see above and review updated COMBO.

• Environmental Compliance Plan

• Is there a page limit on these examples, or will the government consider them excluded from the overall page count?

The environmental compliance plan is included in the 10 page limit.

• Can you please provide a complete list of the Attendees at our tour on 11/4/2025?

This will be posted on SAM along with the Q/A

• How much is the annual contract value for the current contractor, Project Solutions?

The annual contract value for the current contract is :

Base year: 348 K

OY1: 425K

OY2: 467K

OY3: 657K

OY4: 719K

• Can you provide a breakdown by CLIN of the annual costs in the current contract ending February 28, 2026?

I can not provide a cost breakdown of the current contract.

• How many instances were there in the past year of "labor and materials" repair/corrective maintenance repair work performed by Project Solutions or a subcontractor?

Most of the past year’s labor and materials have been incidental, smaller repairs such as a chlorine line break repair, or molasses, etc. to reinvigorate the SBR bug life. This is due to an ongoing construction project where other major components were replaced such as our seven blowers for the SBRs/digesters.

• Can the government confirm the type and amount of chemicals required annually for wastewater and/or sludge treatment in the past year?

• Our main form of chemical treatment is Sodium Hypochlorite; with the occasional production of 12% hypochlorite from Calcium Hypochlorite. The dosage suffered on 2025 due to the SBR valve issues. Approximate amount utilized in the past year was 9,500 gallons.

• How many staff people are currently working at the site with the existing contractor?

Our current contractor staffs the WWTP with a total of 7 personnel. There are 2 daytime operators (one of which is our Level 4) M-F, and one nighttime operator. On Saturday and Sunday, there is one daytime and one nighttime operator. That is the basic framework that they typically utilize but do flex from time to time to ensure operator safety when contingencies occur, and to maintain plant/operator safety. This information is provided as historical data only.

See PWS section 4.1.4 “The Contractor shall operate, maintain, and staff the WWTP with the appropriate number of personnel and work hours to satisfy all requirements of this contract.”

See also the Combo Solicitation, specifically “PART I – Technical Capability Subfactor I:

Staffing Plan Description: Offerors shall submit a staffing plan demonstrating their ability to operate the WWTP on a continuous 24/7 basis. The staffing plan shall include: 1. A description of how personnel will be organized and scheduled to ensure continuous operations, and a developmental plan for each certification level. 2. A resume for the proposed Contract Manager showing certification as a Level IV operator in the State of New Mexico. The Contract Manager shall be available by the contract start date of 01 MARCH 2026. 3. An example staffing schedule covering a 30-day period that demonstrates shift coverage for all hours.”

• Would it be possible for you to allow each contractor to provide an Appendix with the Proposal to simply attach copies of similar "Plans" developed at other USAF WWTP facilities in order to establish our experience in providing the necessary documents?

Please see above and edits to page number on revised COMBO.

• Is it possible to get a copy of the last Awarded Contract, pricing worksheet and full scope?

No

• Is this a mid-term RFP or end of their current contract?

End of the current contract.

• Has there been any additional changes to the scope from the last awarded?

Yes, originally when awarded staffing was not required to be 24/7. Due to ongoing problems with the auto dialer as well as other limited ability to automate/monitor/manipulate plant operations the decision was made to require 24/7 staffing to ensure smooth plant operation. The WWTP has been operated in this manner for the last 2-3 years.

• The proposal is limited to 10 pages, however, with the requested information for all parts/subfactors it will exceed that number. Can you allow a few more pages so I can provide a more thorough proposal?

Please see above and edits to page number on revised COMBO.

• Will we be disqualified or found unresponsive (somewhat relevant/not relevant) if we cannot provide references of plant operation with a contract value over $500,000?

No, relevant past performance will be amended to state “Relevant Past Performance demonstrates experienced operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants with a total contract dollar value of at least $500,000.00 or managing a plant that process a minimum of 150K gallons of wastewater a day, and having similar complexity and function to the subject requirement”