Sargad LLC.pdf

SUBMITTED BY:

STATE OF NEBRASKA STATE

PURCHASING BUREAU

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR SERVICES CONTRACT

124469 O5

SARGAD LLC.

Deepika Vuppalanchi 755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020 Troy, MI 48084 Email: deepikav@sargad.com Phone: 317 798 8565

SARGAD LLC

755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020 Troy, MI 48084 Email: deepikav@sargad.com Phone: 317 798 8565

March 3, 2026

Craig Palik and Clinton Paul

State of Nebraska State Purchasing Bureau

Subject: Response to Solicitation Number 124469 O5 for Disaster Mitigation Preparedness Response and Recovery Programs

Dear Mr Palik and Mr Paul, SARGAD LLC is pleased to submit our response to Solicitation Number 124469 O5 to support the State of Nebraska in providing disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery programs.

SARGAD brings extensive experience supporting state government agencies and public sector initiatives. Our leadership team possesses deep expertise in emergency management, disaster recovery, and federal grant programs. For this engagement, we have assembled a specialized team of disaster recovery experts, engineers, and financial analysts. This structure ensures that the technical assistance we provide is highly accurate, strictly compliant with federal regulations, and effectively managed to meet all State requirements.

We understand this project requires a rigorous implementation of programs administered under the Stafford Act and the National Flood Insurance Act. Our approach prioritizes rapid deployment, accurate damage quantification, and strict financial tracking to support Public Assistance, Individual Assistance, and Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs. We are prepared to execute a detailed review of project worksheets, benefit cost analyses, and closeout procedures to maximize federal funding while mitigating audit risks.

Our methodology supports the goals of the solicitation by emphasizing evidence based accuracy, strict adherence to federal guidelines, and a robust plan for ongoing collaboration with State and local subrecipients. Our dedicated team brings deep operational knowledge, trust, and accountability to the successful performance of all assigned Task Orders.

We appreciate the opportunity to support the mission of the State of Nebraska. Our completed Bidder Questionnaire, along with our separately attached Contractual Agreement Form and required financial documents, are included with this submission.

SARGAD accepts all terms and conditions of the solicitation.

For correspondence or official notices, please contact:

Name: Deepika Vuppalanchi, PhD Title: President and Program Director Address: 755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020, Troy, MI 48084 Email: deepikav@sargad.com Telephone: 317 798 8565

Thank you for your consideration. We look forward to the opportunity to partner with the State of Nebraska to deliver impactful disaster recovery results for your communities.

Sincerely, Deepika Vuppalanchi, President

Attachment A Bidder Questionnaire

RFP 124469 O5

Bidder Name: SARGAD LLC

Bidder should provide a response to all questions in this attachment to meet the requirements of the

RFP.

CORPORATE OVERVIEW

1.1

BIDDER IDENTIFICATION AND INFORMATION

a. The bidder should provide the full company or corporate name, address of the company's headquarters, entity organization (corporation, partnership, proprietorship), state in which the bidder is incorporated or otherwise organized to do business, year in which the bidder first organized to do business and whether the name and form of organization has changed since first organized.

Response: SARGAD LLC is the corporate name. The company headquarters is located at 755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020, Troy, MI 48084. SARGAD is organized as a Limited Liability Company in the State of Michigan and first organized to do business in 2025. The name and form of organization remain unchanged since inception.

1.2

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The bidder should provide financial statements applicable to the firm. If publicly held, the bidder should provide a copy of the corporation's most recent audited financial reports and statements, and the name, address, and telephone number of the fiscally responsible representative of the bidder’s financial or banking organization.

If the bidder is not a publicly held corporation, either the reports and statements required of a publicly held corporation, or a description of the organization, including size, longevity, client base, areas of specialization and expertise, and any other pertinent information, should be submitted in such a manner that solicitation evaluators may reasonably formulate a determination about the stability and financial strength of the organization. Additionally, a non-publicly held firm should provide a banking reference.

The bidder must disclose any and all judgments, pending or expected litigation, or other real or potential financial reversals, which might materially affect the viability or stability of the organization, or state that no such condition is known to exist.

The State may elect to use a third party to conduct credit checks as part of the corporate overview evaluation.

Response: SARGAD LLC is a privately held limited liability company. We demonstrate strong financial stability and operational capacity to execute the full scope of work outlined in this solicitation. As a strategic spin off of i5, SARGAD specializes in leading statewide public health initiatives and healthcare workforce solutions. We successfully manage large scale implementations including data analytical and Medicaid quality and reporting programs, health information technology implementations, and health education and training initiatives across multiple states. Our leaders possess a proven track record executing multimillion dollar government contracts, which demonstrates our ability to sustain long term financial commitments and deliver consistent results across diverse public sector engagements. SARGAD LLC has not been involved in any bankruptcies within the past five years.

We maintain a strong financial infrastructure ensuring liquidity and operational continuity. This includes business banking relationships with Chase Bank featuring an extendable line of credit, liquid funds at Charles Schwab for immediate operational needs, and operational and financial support from i5 Systems through intercompany agreements and shared services. Furthermore, our long term contracts with federal, state, and local government clients provide predictable revenue and sustained continuity.

We maintain comprehensive general liability and errors and omissions insurance consistent with industry standards and public sector contracting requirements. We also actively manage an evolving Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan alongside robust financial controls perfectly aligned with government contracting standards. SARGAD has not been subject to any safety related incidents, insurance claims, or litigation arising from workplace safety, professional liability, or general liability during the past five years. We implement rigorous internal risk management, quality assurance, and compliance practices to minimize operational, safety, and financial risk across all client engagements. You will find our audited financial statements enclosed in the appendix materials, demonstrating our financial capacity, positive cash flow, and clear ability to execute contracts of this scope and complexity.

1.3

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

If any change in ownership or control of the company is anticipated during the twelve (12) months following the solicitation response due date, the bidder should describe the circumstances of such change and indicate when the change will likely occur. Any change of ownership to an awarded bidder(s) will require notification to the State.

Response: SARGAD anticipates absolutely no change in the ownership or the control of our company during the twelve months following the solicitation response due date. Our leadership team remains fully committed to the long term growth and stability of the organization.

1.4

OFFICE LOCATION

The bidder’s office location responsible for performance pursuant to an award of a contract with the State of Nebraska should be identified.

Response: The primary office location responsible for performance pursuant to an award of a contract with the State of Nebraska is our headquarters located at 755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020, Troy, MI 48084.

Our staff from this office will directly manage all task orders, deploy personnel, and oversee all operational logistics required by the State.

1.5

RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE STATE

The bidder should describe any dealings with the State over the previous ten (10) years. If the organization, its predecessor, or any Party named in the bidder’s solicitation response has contracted with the State, the bidder should identify the contract number(s) and/or any other information available to identify such contract(s). If no such contracts exist, so declare.

Response: SARGAD and its named personnel declare no past contracts or direct business dealings with the State of Nebraska over the previous ten years. However, our executive team and subject matter experts bring extensive and highly relevant experience contracting with numerous other state and county governments. We successfully delivered complex projects for the Indiana State Department of Health, the Wyoming Department of Health, and Maricopa County in Arizona. We will apply this deep public sector expertise directly to the State of Nebraska.

1.6

BIDDER'S EMPLOYEE RELATIONS TO STATE

If any Party named in the bidder’s solicitation response is or was an employee of the State within the past twelve (12) months, identify the individual(s) by name, State agency with whom employed, job title or position held with the State, and separation date.

If no such relationship exists or has existed, so declare.

If any employee of any agency of the State of Nebraska is employed by the bidder or is a subcontractor to the bidder, as of the due date for solicitation response submission, identify all such persons by name, position held with the bidder, and position held with the State (including job title and agency). Describe the responsibilities of such persons within the proposing organization. If, after review of this information by the State, it is determined that a conflict of interest exists or may exist, the bidder may be disqualified from further consideration in this solicitation. If no such relationship exists, so declare.

Response: SARGAD formally declares that no party named in this solicitation response is an employee of the State of Nebraska, nor was any named party an employee within the past twelve months.

Furthermore, we verify that no employee of any agency of the State of Nebraska is currently employed by SARGAD or serves as a subcontractor to our firm.

1.7

CONTRACT PERFORMANCE

If the bidder or any proposed subcontractor has had a contract terminated for default during the past ten (10) years, all such instances must be described as required below. Termination for default is defined as a notice to stop performance delivery due to the bidder’s non-performance or poor performance, and the issue was either not litigated due to inaction on the part of the bidder or litigated and such litigation determined the bidder to be in default.

It is mandatory that the bidder submit full details of all termination for default experienced during the past ten (10) years, including the other Party's name, address, and telephone number. The response to this section must present the bidder’s position on the matter. The State will evaluate the facts and will score the bidder’s solicitation response accordingly. If no such termination for default has been experienced by the bidder in the past ten (10) years, so declare.

If at any time during the past five (5) years, the bidder has had a contract terminated for convenience, non-performance, non-allocation of funds, or any other reason, describe fully all circumstances surrounding such termination, including the name and address of the other contracting Party.

Response: SARGAD declares that our organization and our proposed subcontractors have experienced zero terminations for default during the past ten years. Additionally, SARGAD has experienced no contracts terminated for convenience, non performance, non allocation of funds, or any other reason during the past five years. We consistently deliver our projects on time, within budget, and to the complete satisfaction of our government clients.

1.8

SUMMARY OF BIDDER’S CORPORATE EXPERIENCE

The bidder should provide a summary matrix listing the bidder’s previous projects similar to this Solicitation in size, scope, and complexity. The State will use no more than three (3) narrative project descriptions submitted by the bidder during its evaluation of the solicitation response.

The bidder should address the following:

i. Provide narrative descriptions to highlight the similarities between the bidder’s experience and this Solicitation. These descriptions should include:

a) The time period of the project,

b) The scheduled and actual completion dates,

c) The bidder’s responsibilities,

d) For reference purposes, a customer name (including the name of a contact person, a current telephone number, a facsimile number, and e-mail address); and

e) Each project description should identify whether the work was performed as the prime Vendor or as a subcontractor. If a bidder performed as the prime Vendor, the description should provide the originally scheduled completion date and budget, as well as the actual (or currently planned) completion date and actual (or currently planned) budget.

ii. Bidder and Subcontractor(s) experience should be listed separately. Narrative descriptions submitted for Subcontractors should be specifically identified as subcontractor projects.

iii. If the work was performed as a subcontractor, the narrative description should identify the same information as requested for the bidders above. In addition, subcontractors should identify what share of contract costs, project responsibilities, and time period were performed as a subcontractor.

Response: SARGAD brings a proven track record of managing large scale government initiatives. We detail three highly relevant projects below, outlining our specific responsibilities and direct experience acting as the prime contractor. We are not utilizing any subcontractors for this contract.

Project 1: Indiana State Department of Health Statewide Training We developed and deployed a massive statewide training and communications campaign for the Indiana State Department of Health. This project mirrors the size and complexity of the State of Nebraska solicitation because we rapidly deployed critical public health and emergency response knowledge to a decentralized workforce of 40000 direct healthcare workers. Just as Nebraska requires technical assistance for Public Assistance and Individual Assistance programs, our team handled a full communications lifecycle and managed complex public sector deliverables under strict federal and state guidelines.

a) The time period of the project was January 2024 through December 2025.

b) The scheduled completion date was December 2025 and the actual completion date was December 2025.

c) We developed the curriculum, designed the marketing and outreach campaign, and managed the full project lifecycle to ensure standardized critical response knowledge reached all targeted healthcare workers.

Project 2: Maricopa County Department of Public Health Training Series We led a comprehensive public health and emergency preparedness training series for Maricopa County. This engagement aligns directly with the Nebraska solicitation scope because our team trained emergency services personnel and enhanced local government capacity to manage information and logistics during public health crises and disasters. Our ability to support local subrecipients, similar to the Hazard Mitigation Assistance technical liaisons requested by Nebraska, drove the success of this project.

a) The time period of the project was March 2024 through November 2025.

b) The scheduled completion date was November 2025 and the actual completion date was November 2025.

c) We developed all associated marketing, outreach, brochures, and compliance reports. We executed six distinct training engagements for over 50 department personnel, including staff from communications and emergency services.

d) Customer Name: Devonna McCarthy, Program Director. Telephone: 517 862 4437. Email:

annoved11@gmail.com.

e) We performed this work as the Prime Contractor. The originally scheduled completion date was November 2025 with an original budget of 1.7M.

Project 3: Wyoming Department of Health Emergency Preparedness Assessment Our team conducted a highly detailed situational assessment of the Behavioral Health Division emergency preparedness plans.

This project demonstrates our direct capability to perform the hazard mitigation and disaster response planning required by the State of Nebraska. We performed high level operational analysis, evaluating state and county level preparedness, which perfectly mirrors the technical assistance required for FEMA Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs.

a) The time period of the project was June 2024 through August 2025.

b) The scheduled completion date was August 2025 and the actual completion date was August 2025.

c) We performed a comprehensive gap analysis, conducted collaborative workshops with local subrecipients, and developed strategic recommendations that shaped the state emergency communication and response protocols.

d) Customer Name: Fred Bingle, CEO Bingle Research Grp. Telephone: 317 696 6394. Email:

fbingle@binglerg.com. e) We performed this work as the Prime Contractor.

ii. Bidder and Subcontractor Experience Listed Separately SARGAD is bidding as the sole Prime Contractor for this solicitation. We are not utilizing any subcontractors for this project. Therefore we have no separate subcontractor project descriptions to provide.

iii. Subcontractor Information Not applicable. SARGAD will perform all project responsibilities exclusively as the Prime Contractor, and no share of contract costs, project responsibilities, or time periods are allocated to a subcontractor.

1.9

SUBCONTRACTORS

If the awarded bidder(s) intends to subcontract any part of its performance hereunder, the awarded bidder(s) should provide:

i. name, address, and telephone number of the subcontractor(s),

ii. specific tasks for each subcontractor(s),

iii. percentage of performance hours intended for each subcontract; and

iv. total percentage of subcontractor(s) performance hours.

No Response Required: We are not using any subcontractors for this bid.

TECHNICAL RESPONSE

2.1

Describe bidder’s process for providing PA technical services.

i. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipients not yet obligated by FEMA

ii. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipient(s) after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub-recipient(s) and smooth closeout process

iii. Bidder’s process for working with sub-recipients to ensure needs of project are met (Please provide at least one narrative description of previous work with a sub-recipient) Response: SARGAD provides comprehensive Public Assistance technical services by deploying specialized teams of disaster recovery experts, engineers, and financial analysts. We manage the entire grant lifecycle from the initial damage assessment through the final grant closeout. We strictly adhere to the Stafford Act and federal regulations to maximize funding eligibility while ensuring total compliance.

i. Bidder process for reviewing projects for sub recipients not yet obligated by FEMA Our pre obligation process focuses on rapid deployment, accurate damage quantification, and robust project formulation.

• Initial Damage Assessment and Grants Portal Navigation: We begin by assisting sub recipients with capturing their damage inventory immediately following the disaster declaration. We guide them through the federal Grants Portal to submit their Request for Public Assistance. Our team ensures all facility damages are properly logged before the regulatory deadlines expire.

• Project Worksheet Development: Our technical specialists perform site inspections to capture exact dimensions, photographic evidence, and location coordinates of the damage. We then draft the precise scope of work required to restore the facility to its pre disaster design and capacity.

• Cost Estimating and Eligibility Review: We utilize federal cost estimating formats to develop highly accurate and defensible cost estimates. For specialized construction, our licensed engineers validate that the proposed repairs meet current building codes and standards. We meticulously review all submitted costs for emergency protective measures and debris removal to ensure they meet eligibility criteria. We resolve any discrepancies with agency representatives during the project formulation phase, ensuring the Project Worksheet is fully accurate before the federal government obligates the funds.

ii. Bidder process for reviewing projects for sub recipient after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub recipient and smooth closeout process Once the funding is obligated, we transition our focus to aggressive financial monitoring, compliance enforcement, and preparing for an audit proof closeout.

• Financial Tracking and Payment Validation: We establish dedicated project accounting structures for each sub recipient. Our financial analysts track all incurred costs against the approved project budget. We perform rigorous reviews of contractor invoices, force account labor timesheets, and equipment logs to verify that every dollar spent directly correlates to the approved scope of work. We prevent the duplication of benefits and ensure compliance with federal procurement standards.

• Quarterly Reporting and Scope Management: We manage all required quarterly progress reports on behalf of the sub recipient. If a project encounters unforeseen conditions, we proactively draft and submit scope change requests and cost overruns before the work proceeds. This prevents funding deobligations down the line.

• Streamlined Closeout Process: As construction nears completion, we initiate the closeout phase.

We conduct final site inspections to verify that all work matches the obligated scope. We assemble all financial documentation, procurement records, and environmental compliance certificates into a comprehensive closeout package. We submit this package to the State, answering any requests for information immediately to ensure the sub recipient receives their final eligible payments without delay.

iii. Bidder process for working with sub recipients to ensure needs of project are met We prioritize constant communication, capacity building, and localized support when working with our sub recipients.

We assign a dedicated Public Assistance Program Liaison to serve as the single point of contact for each sub recipient. We conduct weekly status meetings, develop customized project dashboards, and provide on site training for their internal staff. We listen closely to their community recovery goals and integrate those priorities into our hazard mitigation recommendations.

Narrative Description of Previous Work: During our recent engagement with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, we provided direct technical assistance to manage their emergency response programs. The county needed immediate support to track complex emergency expenditures and train their staff on compliance standards.

We deployed a specialized team to conduct a comprehensive gap analysis of their financial tracking systems. We completely redesigned their data collection workflows and provided hands on training to over fifty department personnel. By establishing clear daily communication channels and working side by side with their finance directors, we ensured all emergency response costs were perfectly documented and fully compliant with federal guidelines.

Our direct intervention allowed the county to secure their required funding and successfully close out their emergency program without a single audit finding.

2.2 Describe bidder’s process for providing IA technical services.

Response: SARGAD delivers highly responsive and empathetic Individual Assistance technical services.

We deploy specialized teams, including disaster case managers and behavioral health experts, to support the State and local agencies in delivering critical aid to affected individuals and households. We manage the full spectrum of survivor support while strictly adhering to federal privacy laws and the Individuals and Households Program guidelines.

i. Bidder process for reviewing applications and implementing services prior to final award Our initial process focuses on rapid deployment, maximizing survivor registration, and accurately assessing immediate needs.

• Disaster Recovery Center Operations: We immediately mobilize our Lead Individual Assistance Specialists to establish and manage both physical and virtual Disaster Recovery Centers. We ensure these centers are fully accessible and staffed with culturally competent professionals who can guide survivors through their lowest moments.

• Intake and Eligibility Verification: We actively assist survivors in navigating the federal application process. We conduct thorough intake interviews to assess their immediate needs for temporary housing, medical care, child care, and other critical expenses. We help them gather the necessary documentation, such as proof of occupancy and identity, to complete their registrations before deadlines expire.

• Damage Inspections and Need Quantification: We coordinate rapid habitability inspections to verify property damage. Our team evaluates the inspection reports to quantify the exact level of assistance required to make the home safe, sanitary, and functional. We ensure all data strictly aligns with federal eligibility criteria before advancing the application for funding approval.

ii. Bidder process for reviewing files after obligation to ensure eligible payments and smooth closeout process Once funds are obligated, we transition our focus to rigorous compliance tracking, managing the appeals process, and ensuring comprehensive case closure.

• Duplication of Benefits Review: Our Accounting Analysts conduct rigorous cross checks against private insurance payouts, Small Business Administration loans, and voluntary agency support. We document these reviews thoroughly to prevent any duplication of benefits, protecting the State from future federal clawbacks.

• Payment Processing and Appeals Management: We track all disbursed funds to ensure they align strictly with eligible categories. If the federal agency denies an applicant or provides insufficient funds, our Appeals Specialists immediately step in. We help the survivor understand the determination letter, gather additional supporting documentation, draft a compelling appeal, and advocate for their rightful assistance.

• Case Management Closeout: We maintain meticulous digital records for every single applicant.

During the closeout phase, we audit every case file to ensure total compliance with federal data privacy laws and financial regulations. We package these audited files securely for the State, ensuring a perfectly smooth closeout process with zero audit risks.

iii. Bidder process for working with stakeholders to ensure needs of project are met We prioritize equitable access and trauma informed care. We embed our Individual Assistance Specialists directly within state and county emergency operations centers. We collaborate daily with local voluntary organizations active in disasters to fill any gaps in federal coverage and ensure no survivor falls through the cracks.

Narrative Description of Previous Work: During our engagement with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, we developed and executed critical public health and emergency communication strategies for vulnerable populations. The county required immediate support to disseminate life saving information and manage community intake during an emergency health crisis. We deployed our specialized communications team to establish a multi channel outreach program. We designed culturally tailored messaging and managed a rapid response network that connected affected residents directly to county assistance resources. By working side by side with county leadership and local community groups, we ensured that thousands of at risk individuals received the essential services and guidance they needed without delay.

2.3

Describe bidder’s process for providing HMGP technical services.

i. Bidder’s process to review applications for eligibility and completeness to FEMA approval

ii. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipient(s) after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub-recipient(s) and smooth closeout process

iii. Bidder’s process for working with sub-recipients to ensure needs of project are met (Please provide at least one narrative description of previous work with a sub-recipient) Response: SARGAD executes a highly disciplined and mathematically rigorous process to deliver Hazard Mitigation Grant Program technical services. We deploy teams of licensed engineers, environmental planners, and financial analysts to help communities build long term resilience against natural disasters.

We manage the complete lifecycle of mitigation projects, ensuring every initiative is technically feasible, environmentally sound, and perfectly compliant with federal regulations.

i. Bidder process for reviewing applications for eligibility and completeness to FEMA approval Our pre obligation process centers on meticulous application development and strict adherence to federal hazard mitigation criteria.

• Application Formulation and Feasibility: We begin by assisting sub recipients with developing comprehensive project applications that directly address their specific vulnerability to natural hazards. Our Hazard Mitigation Assistance Technical Liaisons conduct thorough engineering feasibility studies to ensure proposed solutions are both technically sound and highly effective. We aggressively manage the Environmental and Historic Preservation review process, coordinating with state and federal agencies to clear any regulatory hurdles before submission.

• Rigorous Benefit Cost Analysis: A critical component of our pre obligation workflow is the Benefit Cost Analysis. Our specialized analysts utilize the latest federal Benefit Cost Analysis Toolkit to quantify the long term risk reduction benefits of each project. We meticulously gather historical damage data, maintenance costs, and projected life safety impacts to build an undeniable case for funding. We guarantee every submitted application demonstrates a benefit cost ratio greater than one.

• Grants Management System Navigation: We carefully guide the sub recipient through the complex federal grant portals. We ensure all spatial data, engineering schematics, and financial projections are perfectly aligned and uploaded correctly, driving rapid federal review and approval.

ii. Bidder process for reviewing projects for sub recipient after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub recipient and smooth closeout process Following the successful obligation of funds, our team shifts focus to rigorous project management and unyielding compliance enforcement.

• Procurement and Financial Monitoring: We establish a dedicated grant management framework for each sub recipient to ensure every dollar spent is fully eligible for reimbursement. Our accounting analysts conduct exhaustive reviews of all procurement activities, strictly enforcing federal regulations regarding competitive bidding and minority business enterprise participation. We actively leverage our strategic partnerships with Managed System Solutions and Tekveo LLC to help sub recipients meet and exceed their diversity contracting goals.

• Scope Verification and Reporting: During the execution phase, we require regular site visits to physically verify that all construction and implementation activities perfectly match the approved scope of work. We manage all quarterly financial and performance reporting on behalf of the sub recipient, proactively identifying any potential cost overruns or schedule delays. If a project requires a modification, we immediately draft and submit the necessary scope change requests to the federal agency.

• Comprehensive Closeout Execution: As the project concludes, we execute a streamlined closeout process. We compile comprehensive documentation packages, including final elevation certificates, engineering sign offs, and complete financial ledgers. We perform a final reconciliation of all expenditures, ensuring the sub recipient faces absolutely zero risk during final state and federal audits.

iii. Bidder process for working with sub recipients to ensure needs of project are met We believe that successful hazard mitigation requires deep community integration and continuous stakeholder education. We embed our project managers directly with the sub recipient teams to build local capacity and ensure the final project perfectly aligns with their long term resilience goals. We conduct hands on training sessions covering federal procurement rules, documentation standards, and long term maintenance requirements. We establish transparent communication protocols, providing sub recipients with real time access to project dashboards and financial tracking tools. Our team actively listens to local concerns and rapidly adjusts our technical support to resolve any immediate challenges they face.

Narrative Description of Previous Work: During our comprehensive engagement with the Wyoming Department of Health, we delivered critical technical assistance focusing on emergency preparedness and risk mitigation planning. The state required a thorough situational assessment of their Behavioral Health Division emergency operations to identify vulnerabilities and secure future funding. We deployed our specialized assessment team to conduct high level operational analysis across multiple county jurisdictions. We facilitated collaborative workshops with local sub recipients, emergency managers, and state health officials to deeply understand their specific resource constraints. By performing rigorous strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis, we developed highly actionable strategic recommendations that directly informed their hazard mitigation planning. We established unified communication protocols and guided local agencies on how to properly document their mitigation needs. Our direct partnership empowered the state to completely overhaul their emergency response frameworks, ensuring local sub recipients were fully prepared to manage future crises and successfully implement state and federal mitigation strategies.

HOURLY RATES

Bidders should provide not-to-exceed hourly rates that will be used for Task Orders as they are issued. There is no guarantee on the number of hours that will be used.

The hourly rates provided below will not be a scored item for the evaluation of this solicitation, but all responses will be reviewed for cost realism and reasonableness.

The roles listed below are mandatory roles that the bidder must be able to provide the State (See RFP Section V.F. for more detailed role descriptions). Bidders may add additional roles/titles as they see fit. The hourly rates shall be inclusive of labor, overhead, and all other expenses, with the exception of travel costs, which will be factored in as needed on task orders as they are issued to awarded bidders.

These not-to-exceed rates will be fixed for the first two (2) years of the contract. Any request for a price increase subsequent to the first two (2) years of the contract shall not exceed five percent (5%) of the price proposed for the period. Increases shall not be cumulative and will only apply to that period of the contract. The request for a price increase must be submitted in writing to the State Purchasing Bureau a minimum of 120 days prior to the end of the current contract period. Documentation may be required by the State to support the price increase.

The State reserves the right to deny any requested price increase. No price increases are to be billed to any State Agencies prior to written amendment of the contract by the parties.

The State will be given full proportionate benefit of any decreases for the term of the contract.

Required Personnel Roles (See RFP Section V.F.) Standard Hourly

Not-to-Exceed Rate

Overtime Hourly Not-to-Exceed

Rate

1. Project Manager $103.50 $155.25

2. Senior Advisor for Public Assistance $111.00 $166.50

3. Public Assistance Program Liaison $81.00 $121.50

4. Public Assistance Technical Assistance Liaison $88.50 $132.75

5. Appeals Specialist $76.50 $114.75

6. Senior Debris Specialist $105.00 $157.50

7. Senior Advisor for Hazard Mitigation Assistance $114.00 $171.00

8. Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program Liaison $82.50 $123.75

9. Hazard Mitigation Assistance Benefit-Cost Analysis Specialist $94.50 $141.75

10. Hazard Mitigation Assistance Technical Liaison $108.75 $162.75

11. Lead Individual Assistance Specialist $81.00 $121.50

12. Individual Assistance Specialist $63.00 $94.50

13. Closeout Specialist $70.50 $105.75

14. Disaster Recovery Specialist $78.00 $117.00

15. Accounting Analyst $66.00 $99.00 Additional Personnel Roles/Titles (Add Rows as Necessary) Standard Hourly

Not-to-Exceed Rate

Overtime Hourly Not-to-Exceed

Rate

SPB Form 22 | RFP Template | Effective 12162024

CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT FORM

By signing this Contractual Agreement Form, the bidder guarantees compliance with the provisions stated in this solicitation and agrees to the terms and conditions unless otherwise indicated in writing and certifies that bidder is not owned by the Chinese Communist Party.

THIS FORM MUST BE SIGNED MANUALLY IN INK OR BY DOCUSIGN

COMPANY:

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

BIDDER NAME & TITLE:

SIGNATURE:

DATE:

VENDOR COMMUNICATION WITH THE STATE CONTACT INFORMATION

(IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE)

NAME:

TITLE:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

BIDDER MUST COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING

Per Nebraska’s Transparency in Government Procurement Act, Neb. Rev Stat § 73-603, DAS is required to collect statistical information regarding the number of contracts awarded to Nebraska Vendors. This information is for statistical purposes only and will not be considered for contract award purposes.

_____ NEBRASKA VENDOR AFFIDAVIT: Bidder hereby attests that bidder is a Nebraska Vendor.

“Nebraska Vendor” shall mean any bidder who has maintained a bona fide place of business and at least one employee within this state for at least the six (6) months immediately preceding the posting date of this Solicitation. All vendors who are not a Nebraska Vendor are considered Foreign Vendors under Neb. Rev Stat § 73-603 (c).

_____ I hereby certify that I am a Resident disabled veteran or business located in a designated enterprise zone in accordance with Neb. Rev. Stat. § 73-107 and wish to have preference, if applicable, considered in the award of this contract.

_____ I hereby certify that I am a blind person licensed by the Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired in accordance with Neb. Rev. Stat. § 71-8611 and wish to have preference considered in the award of this contract.

SARGAD LLC

755 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 2020, Troy, MI 48084

317 409 3742 deepikav@sargad.com

Deepika Vuppalanchi - President

03032026

II. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Bidder should read the Terms and Conditions within this section and must initial either “Accept All Terms and Conditions Within Section as Written” or “Exceptions Taken to Terms and Conditions Within Section as Written” in the table below. If exception is not taken to a provision, it is deemed accepted as stated. If the bidder takes any exceptions, they must provide the following within the “Exceptions” field of the table below (Bidder may provide responses in separate attachment if multiple exceptions are taken):

1. The specific clause, including section reference, to which an exception has been taken;

2. An explanation of why the bidder took exception to the clause; and

3. Provide alternative language to the specific clause within the solicitation response.

By signing the solicitation, bidder agrees to be legally bound by all the accepted terms and conditions, and any proposed alternative terms and conditions submitted with the solicitation response. The State reserves the right to negotiate rejected or proposed alternative language. If the State and bidder fail to agree on the final Terms and Conditions, the State reserves the right to reject the solicitation response. The State reserves the right to reject solicitation responses that attempt to substitute the bidder’s commercial contracts and/or documents for this solicitation.

Accept All Terms and Conditions

Within Section as

Written (Initial)

Exceptions Taken to

Terms and Conditions

Within Section as

Written (Initial)

Exceptions:

(Bidder must note the specific clause, including section reference, to which an exception has been taken, an explanation of why the bidder took exception to the clause, and provide alternative language to the specific clause within the solicitation response.)

The bidders should submit with their solicitation response any license, user agreement, service level agreement, or similar documents that the bidder wants incorporated in the Contract. The State will not consider incorporation of any document not submitted with the solicitation response as the document will not have been included in the evaluation process. These documents shall be subject to negotiation and will be incorporated as addendums if agreed to by the Parties.

If a conflict or ambiguity arises after the Addendum to Contract Award has been negotiated and agreed to, the Addendum to Contract Award shall be interpreted as follows:

1. If only one (1) Party has a particular clause, then that clause shall control,

2. If both Parties have a similar clause, but the clauses do not conflict, the clauses shall be read together,

3. If both Parties have a similar clause, but the clauses conflict, the State’s clause shall control.

A. GENERAL

1. The contract resulting from this Solicitation shall incorporate the following documents:

a. Solicitation, including any attachments and addenda;

b. Questions and Answers;

c. Bidders properly submitted solicitation response, including any terms and conditions or agreements submitted by the bidder;

d. Addendum to Contract Award (if applicable); and

e. Amendments to the Contract. (if applicable)

These documents constitute the entirety of the contract.

Unless otherwise specifically stated in a future contract amendment, in case of any conflict between the incorporated documents, the documents shall govern in the following order of preference with number one (1) receiving preference over all other documents and with each lower numbered document having preference over any higher numbered document: 1) Amendment to the executed Contract with the most recent dated amendment having the highest priority,

2) Executed Contract and any attached Addenda 3) Addendums to the solicitation and any Questions and Answers,

4) the original solicitation document and any Addenda or attachments, and 5) the Vendor’s submitted solicitation response, including any terms and conditions or agreements that are accepted by the State.

Unless otherwise specifically agreed to in writing by the State, the State’s standard terms and conditions, as executed by the State, shall always control over any terms and conditions or agreements submitted or included by the Vendor.

Any ambiguity or conflict in the contract discovered after its execution, not otherwise addressed herein, shall be resolved in accordance with the rules of contract interpretation as established in the State of Nebraska.

B. NOTIFICATION

Bidder and State shall identify the contract manager who shall serve as the point of contact for the executed contract.

Communications regarding the executed contract shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given if delivered personally; electronically, return receipt requested; or mailed, return receipt requested. All notices, requests, or communications shall be deemed effective upon receipt.

Either party may change its address for notification purposes by giving notice of the change and setting forth the new address and an effective date.

C. BUYER’S REPRESENTATIVE

The State reserves the right to appoint a Buyer's Representative to manage or assist the Buyer in managing the contract on behalf of the State. The Buyer's Representative will be appointed in writing, and the appointment document will specify the extent of the Buyer's Representative authority and responsibilities. If a Buyer's Representative is appointed, the bidder will be provided a copy of the appointment document and is expected to cooperate accordingly with the Buyer's Representative. The Buyer's Representative has no authority to bind the State to a contract, amendment, addendum, or other change or addition to the contract.

D. GOVERNING LAW (Nonnegotiable) Notwithstanding any other provision of this contract, or any amendment or addendum(s) entered into contemporaneously or at a later time, the parties understand and agree that, (1) the State of Nebraska is a sovereign state and its authority to contract is therefore subject to limitation by the State’s Constitution, statutes, common law, and regulation; (2) this contract will be interpreted and enforced under the laws of the State of Nebraska; (3) any action to enforce the provisions of this agreement must be brought in the State of Nebraska per state law; (4) the person signing this contract on behalf of the State of Nebraska does not have the authority to waive the State's sovereign immunity, statutes, common law, or regulations; (5) the indemnity, limitation of liability, remedy, and other similar provisions of the final contract, if any, are entered into subject to the State's Constitution, statutes, common law, regulations, and sovereign immunity; and, (6) all terms and conditions of the final contract, including but not limited to the clauses concerning third party use, licenses, warranties, limitations of liability, governing law and venue, usage verification, indemnity, liability, remedy or other similar provisions of the final contract are entered into specifically subject to the State's Constitution, statutes, common law, regulations, and sovereign immunity.

The Parties must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, ordinances, rules, orders, and regulations.

E. BEGINNING OF WORK & SUSPENSION OF SERVICES

The bidder shall not commence any billable work until a valid contract has been fully executed by the State and the successful Vendor. The Vendor will be notified in writing when work may begin.

The State may, at any time and without advance notice, require the Vendor to suspend any or all performance or deliverables provided under this Contract. In the event of such suspension, the Contract Manager or POC, or their designee, will issue a written order to stop work. The written order will specify which activities are to be immediately suspended and the reason(s) for the suspension. Upon receipt of such order, the Vendor shall immediately comply with its terms and take all necessary steps to mitigate and eliminate the incurrence of costs allocable to the work affected by the order during the period of suspension. The suspended performance or deliverables may only resume when the State provides the Vendor with written notice that such performance or deliverables may resume, in whole or in part.

F. AMENDMENT

This Contract may be amended in writing, within scope, upon the agreement of both parties.

G. CHANGE ORDERS OR SUBSTITUTIONS

The State and the Vendor, upon the written agreement, may make changes to the contract within the general scope of the solicitation. Changes may involve specifications, the quantity of work, or such other items as the State may find necessary or desirable. Corrections of any deliverable, service, or work required pursuant to the contract shall not be deemed a change. The Vendor may not claim forfeiture of the contract by reasons of such changes.

The Vendor shall prepare a written description of the work required due to the change and an itemized cost sheet for the change. Changes in work and the amount of compensation to be paid to the Vendor shall be determined in accordance with applicable unit prices if any, a pro-rated value, or through negotiations. The State shall not incur a price increase for changes that should have been included in the Vendor’s solicitation response, were foreseeable, or result from difficulties with or failure of the Vendor’s solicitation response or performance.

No change shall be implemented by the Vendor until approved by the State, and the Contract is amended to reflect the change and associated costs, if any. If there is a dispute regarding the cost, but both parties agree that immediate implementation is necessary, the change may be implemented, and cost negotiations may continue with both Parties retaining all remedies under the contract and law.

In the event any good or service is discontinued or replaced upon mutual consent during the contract period or prior to delivery, the State reserves the right to amend the contract to include the alternate product at the same price.

***Vendor will not substitute any item that has been awarded without prior written approval of SPB***

H. RECORD OF VENDOR PERFORMANCE

The State may document the vendor’s performance, which may include, but is not limited to, the customer service provided by the vendor, the ability of the vendor, the skill of the vendor, and any instance(s) of products or services delivered or…