T0900 EQA Amendment DWKYCC 4.22.25~7.docx

PHILIP D. MURPHY

Governor State of New Jersey

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

DIVISION OF PURCHASE AND PROPERTY

PROCUREMENT BUREAU

33 WEST STATE STREET

P. O. BOX 230

TRENTON, NEW JERSEY 08625-0230

ELIZABETH MAHER MUOIO

State Treasurer

TAHESHA L. WAY

Lt. Governor

AMY F. DAVIS, ESQ.

Acting Director https://www.njstart.gov

April 22, 2025

To: All Interested Bidders

Re: Bid Solicitation # 24DPP01015 T0900 Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Services for NJ – Statewide

Revised Quote Submission Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Revised Quote Submission Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Revised Quote Submission Date: Friday, April 4, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Revised Quote Submission Date: Friday, March 21, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Revised Quote Submission Date: Friday, March 7, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Revised Quote Submission Date: Friday, February 21, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) Quote Submission Due Date: Friday, January 31, 2025 (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time)

Bid Amendment #7

The following constitutes Bid Amendment #7 to the above referenced Bid Solicitation:

· This Bid Amendment includes answers to questions;

· Revision(s) to the Bid Solicitation; and

· Please note that for all additions, deletions, clarifications and modifications to the Bid Solicitation, please refer to “Revised Bid Solicitation 4.22.25”).

It is the sole responsibility of the Bidder to be knowledgeable of all of the additions, deletions, clarifications, and modifications to the Bid Solicitation and/or the New Jersey Standard Terms and Conditions relative to this Bid Solicitation as set forth in all Bid Amendments.

All other instructions, terms, and conditions of the Bid Solicitation shall remain the same.

Bid Solicitation #24DPP01015 T0900 Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Services for NJ – Statewide

Section Reference Revision

Please refer to the Bid Solicitation titled “T0900 Revised Bid Solicitation 4.22.25”

Answers to Questions

Where applicable, each question references the appropriate Bid Solicitation section.

Section Reference Question (Bolded) and Answer

A: Please be advised that all Quotes shall be submitted electronically through NJSTART.

A: Yes. Prior to the Quote Opening Deadline, a Bidder should review the documents comprising the submitted Quote to ensure that all of the required documents have been completed and attached. Oftentimes a Quote is deemed non-responsive because a Bidder fails to attach a required form or attaches a blank form. To review a submitted Quote, a Bidder should log into NJSTART and review each document attached to the Quote submission. Instructions on how to review a submitted Quote can be found in the Quick Reference Guide entitled How to Review a Submitted Quote, which is available on the NJSTART Vendor Support Page under Vendor Reference Guides.

A: It is recommended that users utilize Microsoft Edge to view PDFs. Certain PDF forms cannot be opened in the Chrome or Firefox built in PDF viewers that are enabled by default. If using Chrome or Firefox it is recommended that the file is downloaded instead by clicking the download button in the upper right-hand corner of the browser after an error message is received. An alternative option is to disable the built in PDF viewers in Chrome or Firefox.

A: As stated in Bid Solicitation Section 2.2, Exceptions to the State of NJ Standard Terms and Conditions (SSTC): “Questions regarding the State of New Jersey Standard Terms and Conditions and exceptions to mandatory requirements MUST be posed during the Electronic Question and Answer period and shall contain the Bidder’s suggested changes and the reason(s) for the suggested change(s).” Moreover, as stated in Bid Solicitation Section 3.11, Bidder proposed terms or conditions that conflict with those contained in the State of New Jersey Standard Terms and Conditions may render a Quote non-responsive.

A: For information pertaining to the current Contract, please refer to Bid Solicitation Section 1.2, which states in pertinent part:

This is a reprocurement of the services under T0900 - Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Services for New Jersey Statewide Locations. Bidders interested in reviewing the expiring Contract’s specifications and pricing information may do so by following the instructions below. Bidders should not rely upon or use data or information from the expiring Contract when preparing a response to this Bid Solicitation as this Bid Solicitation addresses the State’s current requirements.

· Go to: www.njstart.gov

· In the search bar, select “Contracts” from the drop down menu

· Enter the T0900 and click “”

· The expiring Contract list will appear under “Results”

A: The Division of Purchase and Property does not accept documents as part of the Q&A process. A Bidder must provide their proposed exceptions and reasoning directly in the Q&A tab as to each proposed exception.

Pre-Quote Document Review Q1: Is every location in the contract subject to prevailing wage?

Q2: If not, which locations are subject to prevailing wage and which are not?

A1: No, not all locations in this Contract are subject to prevailing wages.

A2: All State owned building are subject to prevailing wages.

Leased properties follow the below guidance:

It is declared to be the public policy of this State to establish prevailing wage levels for the employees of contractors and subcontractors furnishing building services for any property or premises owned or leased by the State. Pursuant to N.J.S.A 34:11-56.59 "Leased by the State" means that not less than 55% of the property or premises is leased by the State, provided that the portion of the property or premises that is leased by the State measures more than 20,000 square feet.

Additional, please see revision to Bid Solicitation Section 4.14.

Pre-Quote Document Review Q1. Are all officers subject to New York State Criminal History Background Check?

Q2. If not, what is the requirement of the criminal history background check?

A1: There is no requirement listed in the Bid Solicitation for a New York Criminal History Background check.

A2: Bid Solicitation Section 4.1 Security Clearance states, “As a condition of placement in any agency under this Contract, the Contractor and all security guards assigned to work under this Contract must be in full compliance with the Security Officer Registration Act (SORA).” https://www.nj.gov/njsp/private-detective/pdf/sora/060106_sora.pdf

Furthermore, Section 4.1.1, State House Complex – Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement states, “The Contractor shall adhere to the procedure outlined in Attachment #3 – State House Complex Procedure for Background Checks, prior to assigning personnel at the State House Complex (Complex).”

Q1: Please confirm the Bidder may self-perform all services and there are no mandatory M/S/WBE and/or subcontracting goals or requirements.

Q2: What percentage do we have to subcontract to small businesses?

A: This contract does not require the utilization of Subcontractors. However, if Subcontractors are to be utilized then refer to the provisions of Bid Solicitation Section 3.13.8.1 SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTING SET-ASIDE CONTRACT.

Please review Section 3.13.8.1 SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTING SET-ASIDE CONTRACT, which states:

This is a Contract with set-aside subcontracting for New Jersey Small Business Enterprises.

If the Bidder intends to subcontract, it must submit a Subcontractor Utilization Plan and shall take the following actions to make a good faith effort to solicit and hire eligible New Jersey Small Business Enterprises:

A. The Bidder shall attempt to locate qualified potential New Jersey Small Business Enterprises Subcontractors;

B. The Bidder shall request a listing of New Jersey Small Business Enterprises from the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, Small Business Registration and M/WBE Certification Services Unit if none are known to the Bidder;

C. The Bidder shall keep a record of its efforts, including the names of businesses contacted and the means and results of such contacts;

D. The Bidder shall provide all potential Subcontractors with detailed information regarding the specifications; and E. The Bidder shall attempt, wherever possible, to negotiate prices with potential Subcontractors submitting higher than acceptable price quotes.

Please refer to NJ SAVI link: https://www20.state.nj.us/TYTR_SAVI/vendorSearch.jsp

A Bidder’s failure to satisfy New Jersey Small Business Enterprises set-aside subcontracting or to provide sufficient documentation of its good faith efforts within seven (7) Business Days of a request may preclude award of a Contract to the Bidder.

Each Bidder awarded a Contract which contains the set-aside subcontracting requirement shall fully cooperate in any studies or surveys which may be conducted by the State to determine the extent of the Bidder’s compliance with N.J.A.C. 17:13-1.1 et seq., and this Bid Solicitation.

Q2. Are there specific agencies or counties anticipated to need immediate coverage upon contract award?

A1: No, the State will not provide examples nor templates for acceptable mobilization plans.

A2: Though the State House complex, and the Department of Veterans affairs are listed directly in the Bid Solicitation, please be advised the awarded Bidder must be ready to provide Armed and Unarmed Security Guard services across the State post Contract award.

Bid Solicitation Section 1.1 Purpose and Intent states in pertinent part:

“The purpose of this Bid Solicitation is to solicit Quotes for Armed and Unarmed Security Guard services for various State agencies located in the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of the State.”

A: Bidders have the option of submitting Financials after Quote submission, upon request from the State, in accordance with Bid Solicitation Section 3.27 which states, in part:

“If the information is not supplied with the Quote, the State may still require the Bidder to submit it. If the Bidder fails to comply with the request within seven (7) Business Days, the State may deem the Quote non-responsive.” Additionally Section 3.13.7 Confidentiality/Commitment to Defend, states in part: "As part of its Quote, a Bidder may request that portions of the Quote be exempt from public disclosure under OPRA and/or the common law. The Bidder must provide a detailed statement clearly identifying those sections of the Quote that it claims are exempt from production, and the legal and factual basis that supports said exemption(s) as a matter of law."

The name and email of State Contact will be provided at the time of the request.

State-Supplied Price Sheet Instructions Q: Please confirm Bidder may submit a Price Narrative in addition to the required pricing line items to further detail what is included to the State at no additional cost.

A: Bidders may provide additional narratives separate from the State supplied sheet, however only the price utilized on the State-Supplied price sheet in conjunction with the price sheet instructions will be used to determine the contract award.

Also note that narratives or language that provides additional or conflicting price terms or conditions not specified in the Bid Solicitation may render the Bid Non-Responsive.

Please refer to Section 3.28 State-Supplied Price Sheet Instructions, which states:

“The Bidder must provide firm-fixed, all-inclusive pricing for all lines in all counties. Failure to provide a unit price for all lines on the State-Supplied Price Sheet will result in the Bidder’s Quote being deemed non-responsive”.

State-Supplied Price Sheet Instructions Q: Would the State consider accepting a geographical bid-for the Southern Region Only?

A: No, the State will not consider accepting a geographical bid-for the Southern Region Only.

Please refer to Bid Solicitation 1.1 Purpose and intend, which states in pertinent part:

“The Bidder must provide firm-fixed, all-inclusive pricing for all lines in all counties. Failure to provide a unit price for all lines on the State-Supplied Price Sheet will result in the Bidder’s Quote being deemed non-responsive.”(Emphasis added)

Security Clearance Q1. Can the results of previous background checks conducted for the expiring contract be used to satisfy SORA compliance requirements for personnel transitioning to the new contract?

Q2. If not, are there any provisions for expediting new background checks?

A1: Please refer to Bid Solicitation Section 4.1 Security Clearance which states, “As a condition of placement in any agency under this Contract, the Contractor and all security guards assigned to work under this Contract must be in full compliance with the Security Officer Registration Act (SORA). This is an act concerning the regulation of security guards, N.J.S.A 45:19A-1 et seq.” SORA certification has an expiration date and certificate renewals and expirations are managed by the New Jersey State Police.

A2. The State does not have any provisions for expediting new background checks.

Security Clearance Will every employee need to go through a New York History Criminal Records check?

A: There is no requirement listed in the Bid Solicitation for a New York History Criminal Records check.

State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement How many officers currently work at the State House Complex?

A: Due to the sensitivity of the scope of work, the State will not provide the State House Complex’s house security detail until after a Contract is awarded.

State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement Q: Are we going to be reimbursed by State House Complex background screening?

A: Yes, In accordance with Bid Solicitation Section 4.1.1 State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement, which states in part:

“Any Contractor personnel background check requested by the Division of Property Management and Construction (DPMC) and/or the Complex Staff, for services to be provided at the Complex, will be reimbursed to the Contractor by DPMC/the Complex, as long as it is completed in accordance with the aforementioned procedure.”

State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement Q: What / how many posts are currently at the State House Complex? Will these posts be armed or unarmed or a combination of both?

A: Due to the sensitivity of the scope of work, the State will not provide the State House Complex’s house security detail until after a Contract is awarded.

State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement How will the State House Complex background checks be reimbursed?

Will a line item be needed to bill these back for reimbursement?

A: Yes, the State will add a Pass-Through line for reimbursements specific to Bid Solicitation Section 4.1.1 State House Complex - Specific Background Checks and Reimbursement only.

Please see revisions to Bid Solicitation Section 3. 28 State Supplied Price Sheet Instructions, and the State-supplied Price Sheet.

Tours of Duty Can you please provide a breakdown of armed hours and unarmed hours being performed with a breakdown of spend for each category?

A: As this is a Statewide Contract, the State cannot provide a line by line breakdown of use for the entire life of the contract.

State Holidays The RFP states the State of NJ Holidays. Are these the holidays that should be followed for pay purposes to the employees, or should the holidays be based on the holidays listed under the Prevailing Wage?

A: For purposes of this Bid Solicitation, the State Holidays listing provided in Section 4.3, State Holidays, are observed by the State and should be followed.

Security Guard General Requirements Q1: Section 4.4 states that all security guards shall be physically able to do their assigned work and shall be free from any Communicable Disease which shall be confirmed by a periodic physical examination. The State reserves the right to perform in-house physical ability certifications.

Q2: Please confirm how often the State expects physical examinations to be conducted (i.e. annually, bi-annually, etc.).

A: Please note the section states “The State reserves the right to perform in-house physical ability certifications”. Physical ability certifications will not be done on a routine schedule.

Security Guard General Requirements Q: Are security personnel required to have any specific vaccinations (i.e., COVID, TB testing, etc.)?

A: Currently, specific vaccinations are not required in the bid solicitation. As stated in Bid Solicitation Section 4.4 Security Guard General Requirements:

“All security guards must be physically capable of performing their assigned duties and free from any Communicable Disease, verified through periodic physical examinations. The State retains the right to conduct internal physical ability certification.”

Security Guard General Requirements Q: Do Security Guards need training in all the following: First Aid, CPR, AED, and Narcan?

A: Bid Solicitation Section 4.4 Security Guard General Requirements states, in part:

"All security guards shall be regularly trained and tested to demonstrate competency through in-house training courses on all relevant duties, including but not limited to, active shooter training, CCTV operation, metal detector operation (including use of hand wand), emergency response procedures, fire alarms, injured or sick person(s), bomb threats, police assistance, or other disasters; and qualified to perform the work assigned to them,"

Please be advised that this is a Statewide Contract, and Contractors will have to consult with the corresponding Agency Designated Representative for specific training requirements.

Security Guard General Requirements Q: Can you confirm that in-house training courses will done by the vendor or by the State agency?

A: Bid solicitation section 4.4 states: “All security guards shall be regularly trained and tested to demonstrate competency through in-house training courses on all relevant duties, including but not limited to, active shooter training, CCTV operation, metal detector operation (including use of hand wand), emergency response procedures, fire alarms, injured or sick person(s), bomb threats, police assistance, or other disasters; and qualified to perform the work assigned to them…”

Please be advised that this is a Statewide Contract, and Contractors will have to consult with the corresponding Agency Designated Representative for specific in-house training requirements.

Rate of Pay Q: What is the current Officer pay rates?

A: For the current security guard wage rates, please see the link below and located under Bid Solicitation Section 2.6 Pre-Quote Document Review, titled “State Building Services– Job Descriptions and Wage Rate Determinations” https://www.nj.gov/labor/wageandhour/prevailing-rates/state-building-services/.

Rate of Pay Q: Will the state provide an employer roster of current employees under the expiring T0900 contract, including details on vacation, seniority pay, and benefits, to allow bidders to accurately assess costs for retaining these employees under the new contract? If not, what alternatives are available to obtain this information for bid preparation?

A: No, the State will not provide this information.

Rate of Pay Q: Please confirm the current pay and bill rates (by location and post)

A: As stated in Section 1.2 Bidders interested in reviewing the expiring Contract’s specifications and pricing information may do so by following the instructions below. Bidders should not rely upon or use data or information from the expiring Contract when preparing a response to this Bid Solicitation as this Bid Solicitation addresses the State’s current requirements.

· Go to: www.njstart.gov

· In the search bar, select “Contracts” from the drop down menu

· Enter the T0900 and click “”

· The expiring Contract list will appear under “Results”

Please follow the above instructions, then review the items tab on the current vendors Contract, specifically line items (457 – 610) and new pricing (Price Lines 611-764)

Additional, please review Change Orders 13 and 14 on the Attachments Tab

A: No, the State will not add this line item.

Senior Coordinator Requirements Q: How many senior coordinators are being used under the current contract? If not available, please provide the number of full-time senior coordinators that are required.

A: As this is a Statewide Contract utilized by State Agencies across the State, the State cannot provide the exact amount of senior coordinators that are being used under the current contract; or the number of full-time senior coordinators that are required.

A: No, the State does not mandate nor prefer the retention of current security personnel from the expiring T0900 Contract.

A: The bid solicitation has no reference to “new communication technology”. However, Bid Solicitation Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities states, “The Contractor shall furnish security guards complete with uniforms and all necessary equipment, including firearms, vehicles, and two-way radios as required by the ADR, to provide security services. (Emphasis added).

Furthermore, it states, “When required by the ADR, the Contractor shall supply the guard(s) with hand carried, Two-Way Radios for the purpose of communication between security guards on duty at a specific location. The radio standards shall meet or exceed four (4) watts of power, four (4) channels, and operate at a minimum Ultra High Frequency (UHF) 438 Megahertz (MHz).”

A: No, there are no uniform requirements beyond standard uniforms.

Bid Solicitation Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities states, “The Contractor shall furnish security guards complete with uniforms and all necessary equipment, including firearms, vehicles, and two-way radios as required by the ADR, to provide security services.

Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities

Section 5.10 Electronic Payments Q: Do you have specific billing requirements (certified payroll, etc.)

A: Bid Solicitation Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities states, “It is the responsibility of the Contractor to contact the ADR to verify the billing address of each new assignment prior to starting services to ensure payment for services.”

Furthermore, Bid Solicitation Section 5.10 Electronic Payments states, “With the award of this Contract, the successful Contractor(s) will be required to receive its payment(s) electronically. In order to receive payments via automatic deposit from the State of New Jersey, the Contractor must complete the EFT information within its NJSTART Vendor Profile. Please refer to the QRG entitled “Vendor Profile Management – Company Information and User Access” for instructions.”

A: The State cannot quantify how many radios are currently in use.

A: Bid Solicitation Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities states, “When required by the ADR, the Contractor shall supply the guard(s) with hand carried, Two-Way Radios for the purpose of communication between security guards on duty at a specific location. The radio standards shall meet or exceed four (4) watts of power, four (4) channels, and operate at a minimum Ultra High Frequency (UHF) 438 Megahertz (MHz).” The Agency Designated Representative (ADR) determines the requirements and quantity of two-way radios.

A: This is at the Contractor’s discretion, but at no additional cost to the State.

A: This is a Statewide Contract, Using Agencies can request the type of security on an as needed basis. The State cannot quantify the above request.

A: The State is unable to advise bidders as to what to include in their Quote.

However, Bid Solicitation Section 3.21 Additional Plan(s) states that, The Bidder should provide its formal training plan for both Armed and Unarmed Security Guards. The training plan should detail expectations and requirements for successful performance as both an Armed and Unarmed Security Guard, in addition to detailing retraining procedures.”

Section 4.9.1 Training Requirements Q: Please provide examples of what written testing is required as mentioned in section 4.9.1 Training Requirements. How periodic is it, annual?

A: Pursuant to Bid Solicitation 4.9.1, The Contractor shall be required to provide regular physical and written testing of its employees assigned to this Contract to demonstrate competency and qualification to complete the minimum work requirements. Proof of testing may be required by the ADR and shall be submitted by the Contractor within five (5) business days of request.

Security Guard Duties Q: Do we need a Fire Guard or a Fire Life Safety Director?

A: There is no requirement in the Bid Solicitation for a Fire Guard nor a Fire Life Safety Director.

Security Guard Duties Q1: Can the time punch clocks be replaced with an electronic touring system?

Q2: And if so, can a line item be added that each using agency can opt into using an electronic touring device?

A: The State declines to modify the Bid Solicitation to replace punch clocks with an electronic touring system.

Security Guard Duties In section 4.10, it states Security Guards shall follow incident procedures set forth by Contractor.

Q1: Is this correct, or are the procedures set forth by each using agency?

Q2: If set by Contractor, who will approve these procedures?

A: Pursuant to Bid Solicitation Section 4.9 Contractor Responsibilities, the Contractor shall provide copies of all SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) to the ADR for review prior to the commencement of work under this Contract. The State reserves the right to modify these SOPs to comply with State law, regulation, or policy.

Please note that the list of duties found in Section 4.10 is subject to modification by the ADR.

Security Guard Duties Q: Does the State prefer an electronic system for incident reports, and if so, can a line item be added that using agencies can opt into using an electronic reporting device?

A: The State declines to alter or modify the Bid Solicitation. The State has no preference for incident reporting. Please be advised that this is a Statewide Contract, and Contractors will have to consult with the corresponding Agency Designated Representative.

A: Mercer and Monmouth County

A: Yes. See end of document for details on Medical Qualification Exam standards. Additionally, new hire Contract Security Guards must be advised, in writing, by the contractor at the time of initial employment, that they are required to pass the record Physical Ability Test (PAT) within 30 days of hiring date. New hires must sign a statement acknowledging they have been so advised. Thereafter, passing the PAT will be required annually. Current Contract Security Guard personnel are required to pass the record PAT within one year from the date of their initial entry medical clearance.

A: No. The Contractor shall certify that each security guard assigned to DMAVA locations has successfully completed and passed the Performance of Medical Qualification Exam. Certification shall occur annually for all Security Guards. Re-certification shall occur within 30 days after the anniversary date of each security guard. Civilian employees’ participation in an established medical examination program meeting the requirements of Section 339.205 of Title 5, CFR and Part 1630 of Title 29, CFR, whether for medical qualification or medical surveillance, is a condition of employment.

A: The Contractor shall certify that each security guard assigned to DMAVA locations has successfully completed and passed the Performance of Medical Qualification Exam. Certification shall occur annually for all Security Guards. Re-certification shall occur within 30 days after the anniversary date of each security guard.

Q1: How and where will the tests be conducted and by whom?

Q2: How long do the tests take?

Q3: What is the cost and who will cover the cost of the tests?

A1: The Contractor will administer this test and choose its location.

Minimum physical requirements for the PAT are:

1) Execute 19 pushups in 2 minutes. The event demonstrates core strength and capacity used in defensive tactics and is important for rescues and use of force situations.

2) Running 1.5 miles (2.41 km) in 17:30 minutes. The event serves to assess cardiorespiratory and leg muscle endurance.

Alternate events Alternate PAT events are designed for current career employees who are in the post-academy career phase rather than new hires.

Alternate events are:

1) The 2–mile walk is an authorized alternate event for the 1.5–mile run. This event uses the same course as the 1.5-mile run. The individual must walk 2 miles in 32 minutes to successfully pass this event.

2) The 25 feet dummy drag is an authorized alternate event for the pushup. (a) The dummy must be of average proportionate height and weight of an adult and weigh between 140 and 150 pounds.

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN34997-AR_190-56-000-WEB-1.pdf

A2: The amount of time a Physical Ability Test takes is subject to the individual tester. The link above provides information on how long an individual has to complete the test, which may vary.

A3: The State will not reimburse for testing.

DMAVA Physical Ability Standards / 4.11.2 Certificate of Medical Examination Q: Please confirm any specific requirements/costs related to Physical Ability Tests (PATs) and Medical Examinations, since they are to be included in the hourly rates?

A: For the requirements related to the Physical Ability Tests (PAT) see the answer to Question #50. The State has no information as to the cost of testing.

Specific Services Q: When an agency requests services, what is the timeline the contractor has to fulfill that request?

A: Pursuant to Bid Solicitation Section 3.20 Mobilization Plan: The Bidder timetable should be designed to demonstrate how the Bidder will have the personnel and equipment it needs to begin work on the Contract up and operational from the date of notification of award.

Specific Services Q: What is the anticipated amount of notice provided to the Security Provider for any special event or temporary service requests?

A: The details of any specific services requests shall be agreed upon in writing between the Contractor and the Agency Designated Representative.

A: This is a Statewide Contract, Using Agencies can request the different types of security on an as needed basis.

A: This is a Statewide Contract, Using Agencies can request the different types of security on an as needed basis.

A: This is a Statewide Contract, Using Agencies can request the different types of security on an as needed basis.

A: This is a Statewide Contract, Using Agencies can request the different types of security on an as needed basis.

Contract Price Increase (State Building Service Contracts Prevailing Wage) Q: In order to ensure accuracy in pricing and compliance, can the State clarify which prevailing wage on the Sam.Gov website is to be used, Davis-Bacon Act or the Service Contract Act, to determine the minimum wages to be paid, vacation allotments, and Health & Welfare supplements? In Section 4.1 CONTRACT PRICE INCREASE (STATE BUILDING SERVICE CONTRACTS PREVAILING WAGE) the solicitation states “The Contractor may apply to the Director in writing, on the anniversary of the effective date of the Contract for a price increase. The price increase will be available only for an increase in the prevailing wages of trades and occupations covered under this Contract during the prior year”. Since part of the requirement includes Health and Welfare payments and historically, those costs have changed through published updates, can contractors recoup those costs with bill rate adjustments similar to when changes in the Wage component occurs? Part of the Service Contract Act requires contractors to pay a Health and Welfare Benefit, which historically has been updated annually, sometimes more often. Are contractors required to immediately pay those changed rates at time of issuance, or should bidders await contract modifications from the State? If required to enact immediately, can/will bidders be able to submit rate adjustments, or equitable adjustments, to accommodate those modified costs?

A: Prevailing wage rates for State Building Service Contracts can be found at https://www.nj.gov/labor/wageandhour/prevailing-rates/state-building-services/. The below are the instructions on the website for finding the prevailing wage rate:

· Go to SAM.gov

· Click on "Search Wage Determinations"

· Select Wage Determination Type "Service Contract Ace (SCA)"

· Select “New Jersey,” and select the county where the services are to be performed

· Click on WD# you want to open

· Click on Print/Download to print Wage Determination

· For Wage Determination History, click on "History"

Below is a list of common classifications for building service employees. Using the Occupation Code will make it easier to find the corresponding Wage Rate:

· Janitor: 11150

· Window Cleaner: 11360

· Laborer: 23470

· Boiler Tender: 25010

· Stationary Engineer: 25070

· Ventilation Equipment Tender: 25190

· Guard I (Security Guard): 27101

· Guard II (Security Guard): 27102

· Swimming Pool Operator: 28690

· Pest Controller (Exterminator): 99410

The required fringe benefits follow the occupational listing. The required health and welfare benefit must be provided in addition to the wage rate. The health and welfare benefit is normally increased once a year during the months of June or July.

A: No, the 1% Fee to Periscope will not be built into an hourly bill rate, nor will there be a Price Lines added for invoice purposes. In accordance with Bid Solicitation Section 5.11 Procurement Efficiency Program, it states, in pertinent part:

“For all purchases made under this Contract that have been invoiced, the Contractor shall remit the Procurement Efficiency Program Fee in the amount of one percent (1%) of all Purchases to Periscope acting on behalf of the State of New Jersey.”

A: The State declines to provide contract specific PEP information. Please refer to the NJSTART website and the PROCUREMENT EFFICIENCY PROGRAM (PEP) VENDOR RESOURCES

Auto and General Liability Insurance Q: Please confirm the required amount of auto insurance is $2M

A: As per Bid Solicitation Section 7.1.2, the Automobile Liability Insurance shall not be less than $2,000,000 per occurrence as a combined single limit.

Automobile Liability Insurance which shall be written to cover any automobile used by the insured. Limits of liability for bodily injury and property damage shall not be less than $2,000,000 per occurrence as a combined single limit. The State must be included as an “Additional Insured” and a blanket additional insured endorsement or its equivalent must be provided when the services being procured involve vehicle use on the State’s behalf or on State controlled property.

Tie Quotes Q: In the event of tie quotes, what additional factors beyond those outlined in Section 8.6 will be considered in making the final award decision?

A: As per section 6.2, tie Quotes will be awarded by the Director in accordance with N.J.A.C. 17:12-2.10.

Q2: If so, could you clarify how these components will be weighted in determining the most advantageous quote?

A1: No, the State will not provide this information. Bidder may request the award file detailing the evaluation process at time of Notice of Intent to Award.

A2: See response above.

Q2: Are specific references or past contract metrics weighted more heavily than general qualifications?

A1: The State will not provide specific evaluation details. Bidder may request the award file detailing the evaluation process at time of Notice of Intent to Award.

A2: The State will not provide specific evaluation details. Bidder may request the award file detailing the evaluation process at time of Notice of Intent to Award.

A: The State will not provide specific evaluation details. Bidder may request the award file detailing the evaluation process at time of Notice of Intent to Award.

Best and Final Offer Q1: Under what circumstances does the state anticipate requesting a Best and Final Offer (BAFO) from bidders?

Q2: Will all bidders be invited to submit a BAFO, or only those shortlisted after initial evaluations?

A1: As stated in Section 8.12, BAFOs will be conducted only in those circumstances where it is deemed by the Procurement Bureau or Director to be in the State’s best interests and to maximize the State’s ability to get the best value.

A2: BAFO will be issued at the discretion of the State.

Contract Award Q: Will the state consider awarding contracts to multiple bidders based on counties where their proposals are deemed most advantageous, or is the intent to award a single contract covering all counties and price lines? How will the evaluation process accommodate this approach if multiple awards are possible?

A: No, the State will not be awarding to multiple bidders. In accordance with Bid Solicitation Section 1.1 Purpose and Intent which states, in part: "The State intends to award one (1) Contract to a single Bidder for all price lines (1 – 148)."

Q2: If so, how many? If so, please provide seniority list and current wage rates.

A1: No the State does not have a requirement to retain incumbent officers.

A2: The State will not provide this information.

A: The State will not provide this information.

Q2: If so, can a seniority list be provided for how many personnel have an excess of 5 years, 8 years, 10 years, 15 years and 20 years, in order to calculate their tenure. (as prevailing wage requires their previous tenure to be honored)

A1: The State does not have a requirement to retain incumbent employees.

A2: The State will not provide this information.

A: The State declines to respond to the question as proposed.

A: The Bid Solicitation does not have a requirement to retain incumbent employees.

A: The Bid Solicitation does not have a requirement to retrain incumbent security personnel. However, the Contractor and its security personnel shall adhere to the overall training requirements and procedures specified throughout the Bid Solicitation.

A: All security personnel are subject to the background check requirements outlined in the Security Officer Registration Act (SORA).

Additionally, Bid Solicitation Section 4.1.1 states, in pertinent part:

“The Contractor shall, at minimum, not permit any newly hired, re-hired, or transferred security guard to work under this Contract until said security guard is in full compliance with the SORA."

A: The training requirements are as set forth in the Bid Solicitation. The Bid Solicitation does not express the training requirement in hourly increments.

However, please note that Bid Solicitation Section 4.9.1 Training Requirements state, “The Contractor shall provide copies of all training plans and SOPs to the ADR for review two (2) weeks prior to the commencement of work under this Contract. The State reserves the right to modify these plans and/or SOPs to comply with State law, regulation, or policy.”

A: Bid Solicitation Section 4.4 Security Guard General Requirements states, in part:

"All security guards shall be regularly trained and tested to demonstrate competency through in-house training courses on all relevant duties, including but not limited to, active shooter training, CCTV operation, metal detector operation (including use of hand wand), emergency response procedures, fire alarms, injured or sick person(s), bomb threats, police assistance, or other disasters; and qualified to perform the work assigned to them;"(Emphasis added).

Please be advised that this is a Statewide Contract, and Contractors will have to consult with the corresponding Agency Designated Representative for specific training requirements.

Q2: If so is there a preferred program?

A: Bid Solicitation Section 4.10 Security Guard Duties is a representative and not an exhaustive list of duties. Please also see Bid Solicitation Section 4.4 states, in pertinent part, “All security guards shall be regularly trained and tested to demonstrate competency through in-house training courses on all relevant duties, including but not limited to, active shooter training, CCTV operation, metal detector operation (including use of hand wand), emergency response procedures, fire alarms, injured or sick person(s), bomb threats, police assistance, or other disasters; and qualified to perform the work assigned to them…”

Q2: In Section 2.6 Pre Bid Document Review included reference to Army Regulation 190-56, The Army Civilian Police and Security Guard Program. This document outlines requirements for Background & Screening, Physical Ability Test, Drug Testing and other personnel requirements. Is this document applicable to ALL posts?

Q3: Are incumbent guards exempt from the Physical Ability Testing, and Background Screening?

A1: The Bid Solicitation does not specify any sites outside of DMAVA that require additional training. DMAVA has particular requirements outlined in Section 4.11, including adherence to Army Regulation 190-56 standards, but no other specific sites are mentioned as requiring additional training beyond the general requirements for all security guards.

A2: No, Army Regulation 190-56 is specifically applicable to posts at DMAVA locations, as outlined in Section 4.11 of the bid solicitation. It is not applicable to all posts statewide; the requirements of this regulation are specific to DMAVA and are not mentioned as requirements for other sites.

A3: The Bid Solicitation does not mention any exemptions for incumbent guards regarding Physical Ability Testing and Background Screening. All security guards, including those at DMAVA locations, are required to meet specific standards and undergo necessary evaluations as outlined in the bid solicitation, including annual physical ability certification and background checks.