Final_IASC_Draft_RFP_QAs.pdf

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Question # SOO Objective SOO Paragraph Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Section B - Supplies or Services & Prices

B.2

Is the Government proposing that only labor categories listed in section B.2 are the only allowable labor categories in Steady State?

No, the Government is asking the contractor to propose their approach to include their own labor categories.

Section B - Supplies or Services & Prices

B.3 Is the $7,144,158.89 the maximum allowed Steady State contract value for the 5 year period ($1,428,831.78 per year)?

The maximum quantity is identified inSection B.4 of the solicitation.

Tasks &

Deliverables 2nd paragraph

The government states "When delivering services, the offeror will meet all federal, state, territorial, tribal and local laws and regulations". Does meeting all regulations include permitting at every level?

Yes.

Geographical/Secto r Approach 2nd paragraph

The government states “Offerors shall provide planning support to all FEMA Regions and prospective Whole Community partners within, but not limited to, their sector…” Will FEMA maintain two separate contractor staffs at FEMA HQ?

At this time, FEMA does not plan to maintain two separate contractor staffs at the FEMA Headquarters. Any approach to addressing the Statement of Objectives should be included in the offeror's proposed PWS and/or proposal package which will be subject to evaluation and a determination of best value.

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.2

The government states "Offerors must have the capacity to deploy qualified and knowledgeable staff to support response coordination efforts during pre- or post-disaster declaration periods. Staff will be deployed to FEMA’s NRCC in Washington, D.C., RRCCs, Joint Field Offices (JFO), or other federal or state coordination sites to provide planning and logistical support.”

Is this tasked under a separate Task Order, or part of Steady State Staffing?

Deployments to FEMA’s NRCC in Washington, D.C., RRCCs, Joint Field Offices (JFO), or other federal or state coordination sites to provide planning support will be issued under a separate task order.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.3

Can the government please specify the number of manweeks of Mission Planning Team (MPT) are expected on a yearly basis?

Mission Planning Teams are disaster specific based on Task Orders for each deployment and will issued under a time and materials CLIN. Any approach to addressing the Statement of Objectives should be included in the offeror's proposed PWS and/or proposal package which will be subject to evaluation and a determination of best value.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.3

If the government requests more man weeks of a MPT than what is allocated, will a separate task order be issued or will there be an increase to steady state funding?

Under the IASC contract, FEMA does not anticipate any set number of MPTs. A task order will be issued for each MPT deployment.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.4

Can the government please specify the number of days and number of personnel to be allocated for attendance at conferences and meetings on a yearly basis?

Offerors are required to tell us the number of conferences they plan to attend as well as describe the nature of their support at each conference in their proposed offer.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.5

The government states "Activities will include periodic demonstrations of vendor capabilities for response to various types of hazards in a simulated setting for functional, full-scale or table top exercises."

The Exercise cost is FFP; however, the SOO requires 3 exercises a year, including functional, full scale or table top exercises. Each exercise requires a different level of effort and cost. The current level of detail provided is insufficient to accurately estimate cost and participation. At the time of the final RFP will the government please provide additional detail surrounding its expectations of cost and participation?

Offerors are to assume that they will attend and participate at four exercises per year. In the offeror's PWS, offerors will explain in the detail the support they are capable of proving for these variuos level exercises.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.5

Can the government please specify the number of days and number of personnel to be allocated for attendance and participation in exercises on a yearly basis?

Offeror's are to assume one business week for each exercise;

however, the offeror is required to develop its approach and specify the number of days and number of personnel to be allocated for exercise requirements and state that in its PWS.

The offeror's capacity and resources should be proposed in their PWS based on meeting the stated objectives in the SOO and the specific tasks identified in the scenarios that will be associated with the RFP.

Tasks and

Deliverables Objective 1.6

Training

It appears the answer to this question was cut off from the SOO document. Please define or provide the Mass Care standards of practice mentioned in training requirements.

Appendix A in the Statement of Objectives, lists the documents that contains the Mass Care Standards. The contractor's approach to training will be explained in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 1.6

Can the government please specify the number of hours to be allocated for training on a yearly basis? Based on section 7.2 it appears to be an equivalent of 10 man weeks of training. Is this the number we are expected to anticipate?

The offeror is required to develop its approach and specify the number of days and number of personnel to be allocated for meeting training requirements. The offeror's approach will be described in detail within its proposed PWS.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 2

Having separate Mobilization and Operation Task Orders is a positive to allow for deployments earlier, given the potential for delays between Mobilization and Operation does FEMA intend the contractor to include standby costs as part of mobilization during this in between period?

Any approach to meeting the requirements provided for in the SOO need to be explained in the offeror's PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 2.a

Based on the infrequency of the utilization of this contract, it is impractical and cost prohibitive for a contractor to have the number of cleared and badged staff available to deploy and meet the requirements of the scenario proposed. To put a person through a minimum of a Tier 1 with credit check takes roughly 36 hours, which would make it very difficult to have all staff deployed within 24-72 hours. Will the government consider extending the time requirement for assembling and deploying staff?

Deploying staff will be screened based on the type of work and level of physical or logical access required. In the event of a declaration the time frame for submission of the security packet and fingerprints is reduced to 3 to 5 days. The SOO describes the requirements of FEMA. The offeror needs to describe its approach in its proposed PWS.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 3

From our perspective, we do not believe that it is possible for any contractor to house 50,000 survivors within a 7 day timeframe. Does the government have a minimum number of survivors the contractor is expected to be able to handle? If so, what is that number? The Scenario references a range from 50,000 to 200,000. Is 50,000 the government's minimum expectation?

The scenario does not specify the number of days and FEMA understands that housing a large number of survivors in a catastrophic event of this magnitude will involve complexities and challenges. Through this scenario, FEMA intends to ascertain the capacity of the offeror. The 50,000 to 200,000 population range is the number that the offeror is expected to work with. The offeror's capacity, resources, approach, and timeframe need to be described in detail in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 3.e(1)

"A mechanism to track disaster survivors at shelter locations."

Does FEMA require real time location tracking of survivors within the camp for this objective?

Offerors are required to meet and or exceed the objective as stated and describe their approach within their PWS. Any tracking of survivor requirements will be issued at the task order level. FEMA is looking for reports that show population numbers and trends within shelters and other Mass Care facilities.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 4

Will the contractor be required to ensure that the NGO and Whole Community Partners are following compliance with guidance, safety, sanitary codes if we are augmenting them?

No, the contractor will not be required to ensure the compliance of NGO or Whole Community Partners.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 5.3

Will the contractor be required to track and warehouse/POD material or equipment from NGO or other whole community response?

Yes, FEMA's objective is for the awardee(s) to work collaborately with the whole community based on the COR's directive. Any requirements related to tracking and warehousing of POD material or equipment from NGO or other whole community members will be established at the task order level.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 6.f

Objective 6 contains a boarding requirement for pets and service animals, but does not contain a requirement to board/lodge evacuees. Is this correct, that no need to bed down transiting evacuees is foreseen? If so, then why the requirement to board pets and service animals?

For Objective 6, the boarding of pets and/or service animals references the offerors approach to accommodating animals while evacuees are being processed through to their next destination. Any requirements related to an extended boarding/lodging period will be defined at the task order level.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 7

Objective 7 does not appear to require the contractor to actually conduct the Reunification activity, but to provide equipment, access, and staff to the agencies who do. Is this interpretation correct?

Yes. Any requirements related to contractor support for the reunification capacity will be determined at the task order level.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 8.2 (a)

Repairs if cost-effective - who will make this determination and if it is the contractor will FEMA provide a detailed matrix to define?

The final determination of cost effectivity related to repairs will rest with FEMA.

Tasks &

Deliverables Objective 9

Does FEMA have a process in place to support completion of a quick security check of staff due to the wide range of services and large number of staff that may be requested in a short amount of time?

Yes, advance pre-appointments for Local Hire screening can be provided for cleared assets who have been deployed. E- QIP may be required depending on the labor category and taskings.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

The government states "Contractor personnel who already have a favorably adjudicated background investigation, may be eligible to perform work under this contract without further processing by FEMA PSD if..."

Please confirm that FEMA will not accept any other previously completed background investigation or credentialing type other than that completed by DHS or FEMA (ex: DoD clearance).

FEMA will apply reciprocity wherever it is deemed appropriate and this includes the use of an investigation conducted by another agency, whether previously adjudicated or not. The government does not intend to duplicate efforts and costs where a serviceable investigation exists.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

The government states "Once contractor personnel have properly submitted the complete package of all required background information, FEMA’s Personnel Security Division, at its sole discretion, may grant contractor personnel temporary eligibility to perform work under this contract prior to completion of the full background investigation if the Personnel Security Division’s initial review of the contractor personnel’s background information reveals no issues of concern."

Does the person who receives temporary eligibility under this provision have to be escorted, or will the temporary clearance/badge suffice?

Individuals vetted under this criteria are approved in the pre-appointment process authorizing issuance of the FEMA PIV and no escort required. This guidance applies to public trust positions.

Appendix

B—Security Facility Access

The government states “Contractor personnel shall not receive a FAC until they have submitted a SF 87, “Fingerprint Card,” and receive approval from FEMA PSD.

Contractor personnel using a FAC for access to FEMA facilities must be escorted in Critical Infrastructure areas (i.e., server rooms, weapons rooms, mechanical rooms, etc.) at all times.”

Does the person who has a FAC need to be escorted by FEMA staff, or can they be escorted by Contractor Staff who has the appropriate badge for un-escorted entry?

A person with a FAC can be escorted by FEMA staff or any other personnel with the appropriate escort privileges.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

Do all contractor support and subcontractors working on any task order even if no direct public interaction require badges?

The type of work being performed determines the level of vetting whether or not a badge is required. Any function requiring use of a FEMA computer or unescorted routine and recurring physical access requires issuance of a badge.

Regardless of badging status the contractor is required to track employees and their information.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

Is it a requirement that all contractor staff working on steady state activities must have an active FEMA badge?

All personnel working under the contract are required to be vetted according to the type of work being performed regardless of whether it is in steady state operations or under a declaration.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

Can the Government provide an approximate time frame for either the processing of the SF-85P required for Tier 2 checks or for the "pre-appointment decisions" to be made that will expedite onboarding?

This is one process. Contractor applicants are given 7 business days to complete and submit all required documentation. Upon receipt of the FP responses and the full package review and decision should be accomplished in 3 to 5 business days. If the applicant fails to comply with the requirement they are deemed non-compliant and processing for that contractor ends.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Appendix

B—Security

Background Investigation

Process

Please elaborate on the "pre-appointment decision" process. Does this decision allow the employee hired by the contractor to begin work on site before final adjudication is complete?

If so, what metrics will the Government use (or its designated security adjudicator) use to assess an individual's suitability before the adjudication process has been completed?

The pre-appointment is a preliminary EOD (Enter on Duty) review that includes an evaluation of the required suitability/security checks (i.e. security form, supporting documentation, FBI results and personal credit report). A favorable pre-appointment will allow an individual to commence work prior to the completion of the closed investigation and adjudication. The review is carried out by experienced personnel security specialists.

Section E -

Inspection & Acceptance

E.3

It is our opinion that individual task orders will have unique requirements that would lend itself to having task order specific QSAP. Section E.3 states "The contractor shall submit a proposed QAP for the government's consideration in development of the government's QASP" Will this occur after selection and negotiated for the base contract or will task order specific QASPs be established with input and acceptance from the contractor?

Any QASP should be developed based on the offerors proposed PWS. This will occur after the selection and negotiation of the resultant contract. The QASP will be finalized after selection of a successful offeror. Everything will flow down to the task orders levels.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Section E -

Inspection & Acceptance

E.3

The last sentence of Section E.3 states "As a result the Quality Control Plan shall demonstrate, at a minimum:" It appears something is missing from this section…..Is that the case and can you clarify the intent?

THIS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE SOLICITATION

1) The contractor’s ability to track disaster resources in real time;

2) The contractor’s ability to ensure code compliance (e.g. child care staff certification, square foot per shelter, etc.); and

3) The contractor’s ability to track and disseminate cost data.

Section F -

Deliveries or Performance

F.5

What is the timeframe for "notice of delay" when the completion date is less than 45 days away?

Notice of delay need to be brought to the attention of the contracting officer (CO) immediately upon discovery. The CO will make a determination based on the circumstances related to the delay. This will be answered on a case-by-case basis.

Section F -

Deliveries or Performance

F.6

It is our opinion that this requirement would not be feasible due to the potential size of any given task order completed in that time frame. Please confirm it is the government's intent that all work on any task order issued must be completed within 7 days after receipt of award.

The duration/period of performance of any task orders issued under this contract will be specified within the issued task order.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Section G - Contract Administration Data

G.2

The government states "The contractor shall not be paid more frequently than on a monthly basis." In extreme events the cash flow on this contract could be very large and with the number of small business vendors required by the SB goals, prime offerors will likely need to pay vendors on a more frequent basis. We urge the government to make an adjustment on this contract to allow invoicing and payment on a weekly basis for task order based missions. Will the government allow the contractor to submit invoices more frequently than one invoice per month?

During disaster operations, contractors may submit invoices on a bi-weekly basis.

Section H - Special

Contract Requirements

H.7

The subcontracting goals are not consistent with procuring these types of services in a quick manner. In order to respond in a timely manner, we need to use large subcontractors with a nation-wide footprint. Is the government in a position to reconsider this section?

The offeror's capacity, resources, and approach to providing services should be proposed in their PWS based on meeting the stated objectives in the SOO and the specific tasks identified in the scenarios that will be associated with the RFP. Please inform the government of what resources you intend to use and the timeframe required to complete the task. FEMA will comply with the mandates as stipulated in the Stafford Act. Offerors are required to submit a subcontractor plan subject to government review and approval.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Section H - Special

Contract Requirements

H.8

A quick response will likely require national firms. The local preference is a good idea to backfill the initial response, but the total length of a given assignment will dictate the practicality of backfilling with locals. Similar to the small business goal, is the government in a position to reconsider this section?

It is FEMA practice to seek local vendors first, and then look outside of the local area. Each disaster and each jurisdiction is unique and will provide many unknown challenges. Please inform the government of what resources you intend to use and the timeframe required to complete the task. FEMA will comply with the mandates as stipulated in the Stafford Act.

Offerors are required to submit a subcontractor plan subject to government review and approval.

Section H - Special

Contract Requirements

H.9

If the PRS is being developed by FEMA will it be issued as part of the procurement process? Is there an opportunity to have the PRS be issued on a task order basis as many details of a deployment may be disaster site and time specific?

The PRS will be based on the PWS proposed by the offeror.

Task order requirements will be issues based on the disaster and requirements being supported.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

Section H - Special

Contract Requirements

H.9

The government states "Unsatisfactory performance for any SSPA supply or service may result in other appropriate action(s) by the Contracting Officer including termination for default." Are potential penalties for unsatisfactory performance at the discretion of the Contract Officer only?

The contracting officer is the final authority regarding termination for default for any contract related actions. Such determinations will be made after due diligent consideration of the circumstances and feedback from the Contracting Officer's Representative.

Section M -

Evaluation Factors for Award

M.5

On page 86, Factor 1b list QASP, should it not be Quality Control Plan?

Factor 1 – Technical Approach *Sub-Factor 1a –Implementation Plan *Sub-Factor 1b – Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)

Offerors are responsible for creating a PWS based the requirements described in the Statement of Objectives (SOO).

Offerors are also expected to develop their own QASP that surveils the PWS they developed.

40 Scenario Overview General Question

The government states "Offeror(s) shall develop a Performance Work Statement that clearly identifies an implementation process, quality control capabilities, and an overall understanding that supports the conditions described in the 3 types of scenarios. " Will FEMA provide a format or template to guide the preparation of the PWS and provide a uniform set of metrics to evaluate the offerors’ technical approach?

The offeror shall develop its PWS based on the SOO and the outline it utilizes. In addition, any submission related to the offeror's proposal must adhere to the requirements stated in Section L.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

41 Scenarios General Question

The government states “Offeror(s) shall develop a Performance Work Statement that clearly identifies an implementation process, quality control capabilities, and an overall understanding that supports the conditions described in the 3 types of scenarios.”

Is this the right terminology? Isn’t a PWS a statement provided by the offeror to a contractor that details the work that is expected by the offeror? In particular, isn’t the PWS the executable document issued by FEMA in a Task Order that supplements the SOW in the primary contract?

In this procurement, FEMA has determined to utilize a statement of objectives (SOO), which requires the contractor to develop its own performance work statement based on the objectives. This approach allows the offeror to propose its own capabilities in meeting FEMA's requirement.

42 Scenarios Scenario Number 1

In this Scenario, is the government stating that the minimum number of survivors they require the contractor to support is 50,000?

Yes. In the scenario, the offeror is required to recommend an approach within their performance capacity to meet the need based on its proposed PWS. 50,000 is the minimum.

43 Scenario 1 Requirement #1

In our response, will FEMA accept NGO and Whole community augmentation and/or support in our completion of the mission?

Yes, however FEMA expects the offeror to explain and demonstrate its capacity and capability to fulfill the mission separate from NGO and other Whole community resources.

Any responses from offerors will be evaluated based on the criteria specified in Section M.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

44 Scenario 1 Requirement #1 What is the contractor liability to any/all repairs to a private/public residence, will we be held harmless for contractor work?

The government will not indemnify the contractor.

45 Scenario 1 Requirement #1

Will the contractor be liable for impacting non-event damaged parts of a building in the course of repairs to the home? Will FEMA pay for indemnity to the contractor for work performed?

The Government cannot legally agree to any indemnity or open-ended liability clauses. The Government may, if allowable under the Federal law and regulation, at the time of the terms of the contract, reimburse the awarded contractor for the cost of insurance directly related to the performance of task orders under this contract.

46 Scenario 1 Requirement #1 Distribution of emergency supplies has items identified, will NGO/Whole Community Support be included in the requirement (additional items- Clothing, laundry elements, Sanitary elements, etc.)?

FEMA expects the offeror to propose its capability to procure and distribute emergency supply items.

47 Scenario 1 Requirement #2 How will FEMA evaluate the effectiveness of the offeror’s approach and capability (beyond the M.12 Rating Methodology)?

The Government will evaluate proposals in accordance with evaluation criteria set forth in Section M of the RFP.

48 Scenario 1 Requirement #3 With the emphasis on detail, does FEMA anticipate providing both a template that outlines content to be addressed, and a page limit?

Offerors are required to submit its proposal in accordance with the instructions outlined in Section L.

49 General Question General Question It is stated software development could be requested at the task order level, does that assume no development would be requested as part of readiness activities by

FEMA?

No, any rerequirements for software development will be handled at the task order level.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

50 General Question General Question

It is stated that contractor is required to identify and manage registered sex offenders. Does the government have a specific criteria for handle this and what levels of review does FEMA require for this? Also, will the government indemnify the contractor for this requirement?

Managing sex offenders is not an objective or mentioned in the 2017 SOO. FEMA's Office of the Chief Security Officer is responsible for all physical and facility security issues.

51 General Question General Question Is FEMA requiring a supply and material CLIN list for the contractor to submit bids in response to the FINAL RFP?

No.

52 General Question General Question

We have significant concern about not providing security for equipment and personnel that we would be deploying as part of a task order. Since contractor is no longer responsible for providing security, is the contractor indemnified for any security incidents that may occur?

Any considerations regarding security breaches and issues will be resolved on a case by case basis. The Government will not provide indemnity for the contractor.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

53 General Question General Question

The government states The offeror shall submit three (3) Past Performance reference documents, which shall include contractual work that is similar to the requirements set forth in the RFP. No more than three (3) Past Performance reference documents will be evaluated for each offeror. The Past Performance documents shall be for projects completed in the last five years or currently in process, which are of similar size, scope, complexity, or, in any way, are relevant to the effort required by this RFP.

What will the government accept as similar experience due to the size of the scope of this RFP? Additionally is the timeframe of last 5 years firm? Would the government accept a past performance reference from Katrina or Sandy?

The government will accept all submissions that adhere to the requirements stated in Section M. However, determinations related to the similarity of scope and complexity will be subject to an evaluation.

B - Supplies or

Services and Prices B.2 Price Schedule

The asterisked sentence at the end of B.2 states that "In the event or a Presidential Declaration for Disaster, See Attachment A under Section J for CLINs and Rates." The excel workbook in Attachment A only includes CLINS and Rates for Steady State and Mission Planning. Please provide the missing CLINS and Rates for Presidential Declaration for Disaster.

Expenses for presidentially declared disasters are determined by the geographical impact of the disaster and needs of survivors. Each disaster and it's impact is unique and can be more accurately determined by assessments. Contractor is to propose their own labor categories for Steady State and all Scenarios. CLINS associated with Presidential Declared Disasters will be handled at the task order level.

B - Supplies or

Services and Prices B.2 Price Schedule

Please provide labor descriptions for the Steady State labor categories listed. The offeror shall provide the labor descriptions for the labor categories offered in its proposal.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

B - Supplies or

Services and Prices

B.3 Minimum and Maximum Funding

Limitation

The definite guarantee for this requirement is set at $5,000.00 per contract and the maximum guarantee is currently set at $7,144,158.89 per contract. Are the guarantees for Steady State and Mission Planning services only?

Please see revised language in Section B.4 of the RFP.

B - Supplies or

Services and Prices

B.3 Minimum and Maximum Funding

Limitation

How was the maximum guarantee calculated? What types or services and products were included in the calculation?

The Maximum Funding Limitation is an amount that will be determined by the proposal of the successful offerors.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

Tasks and Deliverables

The Government states that “the offeror will meet all federal, state, territorial, tribal, and local laws and regulations”. Understanding that there will be catastrophic disaster situations where desperately needed life-saving resources (e.g. over height/overweight equipment needing a special permit, application of hybrid temporary housing solutions, etc.) and/or emergency personnel (e.g. professionally licensed and certified, but not specifically in the affected state or jurisdiction) may not technically comply with all applicable laws and regulations – how does the Government plan to mitigate this challenge (e.g. through the use of negotiated waivers or the use of preemption, etc.)? Will FEMA use federal preemption during large and catastrophic events should the situation warrant it?

Any deviation from applicable federal, state, territorial, tribal, and local laws and regulations, will be considered on a case by case basis. The government will not make a predetermined conclusion on such matters without the context of the situation and/or how it relates to that disaster.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

Objective 1: Steady State and Planning

Support

Will the work under this objective be FFP or T&M? Some CLINs will be Fixed Price and others will be Cost type.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.1 Technical

Assistance, Coordination with

FEMA

Is it FEMA’s preference that staff be located in Washington, DC? If not, will FEMA reimburse travel for these staff members?

The offeror's capacity and resources should be proposed in their PWS based on meeting the stated objectives in the SOO and the specific tasks identified in the scenarios that will be associated with the RFP. The proposed PWS will be subject to a best-valued evaluation.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.1 Technical

Assistance, Coordination with

FEMA

Is it FEMA’s preference that staff work in FEMA offices full-time? If so, will an office and necessary office equipment be provided?

Offerors should assume that no offeror's staff will be permanently located at FEMA Headquarters.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.2 RRCC/NRCC

Support

If deployed, what type of planning and logistical support will staff be providing?

Information about their roles is critical to make sure we understand the qualifications to appropriately price personnel.

Planning support will consist coordinating with FEMA staff and other partners to determine mission requirments and to establish a strategy for the delivery of services. Logistical support consists of planning for the provision of specific services to 3rd party (i.e. meals for a Red Cross shelter.)

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.3 MPTs

What are the desired skill sets and qualifications of the personnel assigned to the MPTs? Information about their roles is critical to make sure we assign and appropriately price the right personnel.

Since the purpose of the MPT is to provide planning and data required for the contractor to execute a mission, offerors are expected to propose a solution that meets our requirement to include establishing roles and responsibilities for staff who support the MPTs. This needs to be described in detail in the proposed PWS and subject to evaluation criteria described in Section M.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.4 Conferences

and Meetings

Will conference registration fees be paid directly by FEMA or will the contractor be reimbursed.

Expenses related to attending conferernces should be included in the offeror's proposal travel shall be under the federal travel regulations.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.4 Conferences

and Meetings

For the purposes of pricing and determining level of effort, how many conferences should the contractor plan on attending per year?

There are at least 2 conferences that are a requirement for contractors to attend annually, National Hurricane Conference and the National VOAD Conference. Attendance to other conferences shall be directed by the government.

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Contractor Question/Comment Government Response

Attachment IASC DRAFT RFP Questionnaire

FEMA's observation is that many of the questions are incorrectly referring to aspects related to the previous PWS posted in 2016. Industry should assume that the 2017 SOO replaces the 2016 PWS and references to the previous requirement are not applicable. Also, the use of a SOO is FEMA's attempt to award a contract that meets the capacity of the sucessful awardee. This is an opportunity for the offeror to propose services within is perforamance capability which shall be described in its proposed PWS.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.5 Exercises

For the purposes of pricing and determining level of effort, how many exercises should the contractor plan on participating in per year?

The contractor should plan to participate in a minimum of 4 exercises hosted by the federal government per year.

C- Statement of

Objectives, Tasks and Deliverables

1.6 Training

What specific "Mass Care Standards of Practice" are referenced in this requirement?