RFP_22RFP7844_PCT_FY23_Questions.docx

Below are the questions I’ve been asked about the PCT contract to date. I’ve responded in red and will send the responses along to Pierre to be posted with the RFP as well:

1. How low do stumps need to be? And what if deep snow depth?

Trees should be cut as close to the ground as possible, and the height of stumps should not exceed 6’’ from the ground on the high side. During periods of heavy snowfall, cutting of green trees should be deferred until snow depth allows cutting of stumps <= 6’’

1. You require info on three previous contracts "similar" to this one. Similar in what way? I've done Contracts for City of Sioux Falls, street tree Removals & stumps; does this qualify?

Any relevant experience can be listed (cutting trees, logging, etc.) however if the experience is not pre-commercial thinning, contractors should address how their experience will translate to their ability to successfully complete the contract in the attached work plan

1. Where can I find previous successful Offerors Bids that are publicly available?

I’ve attached an excel spreadsheet listing all of the winning bids from PCT contracts for fiscal years 2020-2022

1. Do I have to Bid on all seven Bid Items?

No, you can bid on any items you’re interested in. Note that for bid item 1 (the variable density thinning) there will be two units that must be completed. Additionally, you can specify in the bid form a minimum dollar value/acreage for which you’d be willing to accept a contract (see page 18, in italics).

1. Is subcontracting allowed?

From section 2.14 of the RFP: The Contractor may not use subcontractors to perform the services described herein without the express prior written consent of the State.

1. How is the performance bond managed/Can the performance bond be maintained as 10% of the current project unit, changing as project units are completed?

The performance bond is required to be maintained as 10% of the total contract amount, and may not be “itemized” and maintained as 10% of the current project unit being thinned.

1. May contractors camp within CSP while performing contract services?

Contract awardees are responsible for lodging – CSP does not allow camping on-site while work is being performed.

1. Can ATVs/UTVs/dirt bikes be used to access units?

Except dirt bikes, ATVs and UTVs may be used with the written permission of the state.

1. How do you enforce provisions such as subcontracting prohibitions, labor laws, etc.?

First, The contractor must agree to comply with all federal, state and local laws, regulations, ordinances, guidelines, permits and requirements applicable to providing services pursuant to the contract, and will be solely responsible for obtaining current information on such requirements.

The State requires documentation such as Employer Identification Number, Federal Tax Identification Number or Social Security Number.

Additionally, the contractor must certify that neither Contractor nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment or suspension, or declared ineligible from participating in transactions by the federal government or any state or local government department or agency. The contractor further agrees that it will immediately notify the State if during the term of this Agreement Contractor or its principals become subject to debarment, suspension or ineligibility from participating in transactions by the federal government, or by any state or local government department or agency. CSP checks with the Secretary of State register of businesses to ensure contract awardees are in good standing.