AMEND_8_-_Q A_4.15.16.pdf

TIRMS-16-R-00001

FMSS CONSOLIDATED GUARD SERVICES

AMENDMENT NO. 0008

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A):

1. In the RFP page 28 the top of the page indicates a 60 day transition and the bottom of the page indicates a 90 day transition. Which is correct?

Government Response: There will be a 90 day transition period allowed.

2. On page 34 section 1.6.14.1 it states that those who worked on the predecessor contract must undergo all required training. Does this include all training listed in Exhibit 6 including the initial firearms training course?

Government Response: Yes.

3. In the RFP on page 39 section 1.6.22.1 it states that new hires must complete IRS Specific Training. How long is this course? Is this course the same as any of the requirements in Exhibit 6?

Government Response: Exhibit 4 outlines Government training. Additionally, annual Security Awareness Training to maintain access.

4. On page 54 of the RFP section 4.3.3.5 it states that “unless stipulated otherwise, the contractor shall not store any weapons, ammunition or cleaning supplies at any of the contract task sites.”

During the site visit in Memphis the weapons are currently being stored on site. Will the government grant permission to store weapons on site under the new contract? If not this could cause significant increase in costs with having officers gear up off site.

Government Response: The government will not allow the storage of weapons, ammunition or associated supplies. All Guards must report to work armed and in full uniform (i.e. duty ready) to immediately stand a post.

5. On page 82 of the RFP section 6.5.22.1 it indicates that all employees must receive formal suitability adjudication by the IRS Personnel Security office. How long does this investigation usually take?

Government Response: It may vary depending on what is found in the background of each individual but it is normally 60 days.

6. On page 80 of the RFP it states that random drug testing is required for 5% of the officers annually, however in Attachment 2 page 2 it states that randoms are required for 10% of the officers annually. Which is correct?

Government Response: Ten percent is the requirement.

7. In Exhibit 15 on page 1 it states that duty gear must be black leather however on page 4 it states that duty gear can be either leather or web type. Which is correct?

Government Response: Black Duty gear can either be nylon/web or leather as long as the Holster is at least a Retention II in accordance of NIJ standards.

8. On page 130 of the RFP the government is seeking past performance in response to the RFP.

How many past performance references is the government looking for us to submit? Also, if the past performance reference we are submitting has a current CPAR on file in PPIRS does a Past Performance Questionnaire need to be submitted?

Government Response: Each offeror must submit three (3) past performance references similar in size and scope of this RFP. A Past Performance Questionnaire will need to be submitted based on references provided.

9. On page 36 of the RFP section 1.6.19.2 it states that any officer that fails the firearms requalification must take an 8 hour remedial course before attempting requalification. In exhibit 6 under the Firearm Qualification section it states that if an officer fails requalification they must practice for 7 days prior to attempting to pass. Which is correct?

Government Response: They must be provided 8 hours remedial training (instructor led) before an attempt to re-qualify. The guard must also be given 7 days to practice at the contractor’s expense.

10. In exhibit 6 it states that CPR/AED is required semiannually for 4 hours however in the section directly above it states that CPR/AED and first aid should be conducted based on American Red Cross standards. Which is correct?

Government Response: In accordance with Red Cross Standards.

11. In attachment 6 the KY CBA, page 19 Article 11 c. refers to shift differential and references this is outlined in appendix B. However there is no mention of shift differential in appendix B. Is there a page missing?

Government Response: Section 11c, Shift differential no longer applies to Article No. 11, Wages under Attachment 6.

12. In attachment 4 the MA CBA, in appendix A the last update was October 1, 2014 and there is nothing for October 1, 2015. Should we utilize the numbers for 2014 or is the government going to provide an update?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment No. 006.

13. Can the government provide a seniority lists so that vacations can be properly calculated for incumbent staff?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment No. 005.

14. The post exhibit has numerous errors where the start and end times for the post do not match the number of hours per day in the next column. Can the government please recheck the post exhibit and send an updated version?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

15. Only the CBA for the KY locations (attachment 6) lists guard mount for the officers. However, due to the size of each facility guard mount would be required to get each officer on post on time.

Is guard mount currently being paid on all sites under the contract?

Government Response: Please refer to Contract Pricing, page 28 of the solicitation.

16. To clarify exhibit 6, each officer must undergo 45 hours of annual training, plus semi-annual firearms re-qualifications, and CPR/AED/ first aid as required by the American Red Cross.

Correct?

Government Response: The exhibit stipulates the type and number of hours of training required.

17. On page 2 of the SF1449 CLIN 0001 the unit for this CLIN is listed as “AJ”. What does this stand for?

Government Response: “AJ” under CLIN 0001 stands for Adjustable. This CLIN represents the Base CLIN structure and the total sum of Sub-CLINs (i.e. 0001A through 0001C) for the Base Period and subsequent Option Years.

18. Amendment 2 Exhibit 2 still has the mathematical errors of the original exhibit. e.g.: daily post hours-states 16, actual is 12, states 8, actual is 3, etc. there are 8 of these) — M-F including holidays states 251 and 260 annual days instead of 261 — there are blank posts lines with just start & stop times, all other columns blank - 8 of these — there are 2 posts where the annual hours are short, they don't take into account the number of stated posts. Without regard to the 8 essentially blank lines, this creates a discrepancy of 16,500 hours MORE than what the Government’s individual “annual total” cells actually total and 1,020 LESS than the Government's stated total on the pdf.

Memphis – most of the errors Andover – only one (261/260) Covington – 3 wrong daily hours (16 hrs should be 12, 6 should be 4 & the 0530-1700 should be 11.5) and 2 of the 6 blank lines

Question/Request for Clarification: All of our pricing tabs are dependent on post hours. We are unable to proceed until Exhibit 2 is fixed. Will the Government issue a revised Post Exhibit 2 as soon as possible, preferably in Excel? Please indicate any radio or vehicle requirements for the 8 blank lines with only the start & stop times.

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

19. WS section 3.2 states, “The Contractor shall monitor all security systems, which include interior and exterior intrusion detection systems, entry access control systems, fire alarm, and CCTV surveillance systems. The contractor is required to provide a minimum of two security officers to be stationed in the Security Console to monitor the security system 24-hours a day, 7- days per week, 365 days per year, including federal holidays. The post exhibit only states, "Fixed or Patrol," and doesn't provide post descriptions.

Question/Request for Clarification: In a new and corrected Exhibit 2, please identify which posts are considered Security Console posts. Please provide adequate post descriptions such as, "access control" "gate access" "vehicle inspection," etc.

Government Response: They are identified as 7 day per week posts and show an asterisk to indicate holiday coverage on Exhibit 2. Adding additional indicators is not necessary to calculate the hours and make a bid on this RFP. The post locations such as Security console, access control and gate access is not relevant.

20. PWS section 3.3 states, “The Contractor shall provide relief guard(s) on all shifts, weekends and federal holidays for each contractor employee on an authorized break or lunch in accordance with the fixed guard post requirements. No other productive and supervisory security officers may be used for providing lunch or break periods.

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) In a new and corrected Exhibit 2, please include a column to indicate which posts require relief.

b) Are Supervisors and Patrol units self-breaking, not requiring a relief guard?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007. Only Watch Commanders and Site supervisors are self -relieving.

21. PWS section 1.6.20.1 states, “Identifying contractor personnel performing under the contract (within ten (10) business days after award), as prescribed in IR1052.239-9007– Access, Use or Operation of IRS Information Technology (IT) Systems by Contractors (Attachment 1).” The post exhibit only states, "Fixed or Patrol," and doesn't provide post descriptions.

Question/Request for Clarification: Which posts require the provisions of PWS sections 1.6.20.1 through 1.6.20.8?

Government Response: All posts require access to IRS space and systems.

22. PWS section 4.1.2 states, "The duties of posts require that an ASO not leave the post until HE/SHE is properly relieved. Where this is required, it will be specifically stated on the guard post orders. Refer to required post hours (Exhibit 2)." Exhibit 2 does not call out the posts requiring relief. Relief gets calculated into our rate buildup.

Question/Request for Clarification: In a new and corrected Exhibit 2, please identify the posts that require relief guards.

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

23. The KY CBA has a 50 cent premium for Control Center guards.

Question/Request for Clarification: In a new and corrected Exhibit 2, please identify which posts are to be paid the CBA Control Center rate. This would negate the need for an economic adjustment immediately after award.

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

24. PWS section 4.1.3 states, "With the exception of the security supervisors, the COR/ reserves the right to exercise a post rotation requirement, at their discretion, to ensure security officers working posts, are proficient and familiar with all posts duties, associated equipment, and procedures." PWS 6.1.3 states in part, "Select officers may be identified and qualifications submitted to COR for approval to be assigned in the CSCC. Select candidates must then complete 40 hours of OJT inside the CSCC alongside a fully certified CSCC Operator prior to an assignment as the sole CSCC Operator on duty."

Question/Request for Clarification: The KY CBA has a 50 cent premium for Control Center guards.

a) Does this rotation occur that effects CSCC operators?

Government Response: Yes, CSCC are subject to rotation.

b) If yes, how is this rotation and wage premium handled with the union in Covington?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

c) Also, if this rotation applies to CSCC Operator posts, the 40 hour OJT would require double staffing the operator posts and back-filling the guard posts in order to qualify a regular guard for rotation. If rotation includes CSCC Operator posts and so we can factor double staffing into our training rate buildup, how many times a year does this occur at each city?

Government Response: Please refer to the RFP and Amendment #007.

25. PWS section 1.6.19.5 states, “Semi-annual Handgun qualification involves the Contract employee’s ability to pass the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center course of fire as outlined in training Exhibit 03b (now eliminated by Amendment 1) and 3b(1) with a passing score. However, the

Contractor shall be liable for ensuring that all Contract employees receive the training or range time necessary to successfully re-qualify on the practical pistol course on an annual basis.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please clarify whether handgun qualification is semi-annual or annual.

Government Response: All qualification is semi-annual. The requirements of Exhibit #3b, Weapons Training – Firearm Course still applies this RFP. Per Amendment #001, Exhibit 3b was removed because it is an internal document for agency use only. The FLETC course of fire shall be used.

26. With the elimination of Exhibit 03b, the 300 point FPS Federal Police Officer firearms course of fire, will you be issuing the 250 point FPS Contract Guard firearms course of fire?

Government Response: The qualification requirements of Exhibit 3b still applies.

27. PWS section 4.3.2 states in part, “All weapons must be new (not used or refurbished)” Question/Request for Clarification: Please confirm that the incumbent Contractor is also required to furnish all new weapons.

Government Response: All weapons will be required to be new at the start of this Contract. Please refer to Section 5.15.4.

28. PWS section 5.15.3 states “Firearms, ammunition, and less-than-lethal weapons as described in Exhibit 8.” Ex. 8 is the Report of Infractions.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please provide the Exhibit that describes “Firearms, ammunition, and less-than-lethal weapons.”

Government Response: Section 5.15.3 is under this RFP is amended to read the following:

5.15.3 Firearms, ammunitions, and less-than-lethal weapons may include handguns, baton, Oleoresin Capsicum (i.e O.C./pepper spray). Modification(s) to firearm mechanisms must comply with manufacturer’s specifications and requirements. Ammunition must be acquired from a commercial source. All ammunition must be factory loads. Re-loads are not acceptable. Duty ammunition must be jacketed hollow point meeting acceptable industry law enforcement standards. Practice ammunition, may be ball or full metal jacket; however, it must be the same grain weight as the duty ammunition issued under this contract.

29. Will the Government release a seniority list so vacation and other benefits can be calculated and priced? This would eliminate the need for an economic adjust immediately after award.

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment No. 005.

30. Will the Government release training certifications, in Excel format, so transition training can be priced without over-pricing training for all incumbents who may have valid certifications in first aid, CPR. OJT and the like? This would eliminate the need for an economic adjust immediately after award.

Government Response: No. The Government will allow a 90-day Transition Period.

31. PWS section 1.6.14.1 states, “All security officers and uniformed supervisory personnel working under this contract must complete the following training and pass the required written examination(s).

Contract security officers and uniformed supervisors who worked under the predecessor Contract and maintain valid certification credentials will also be required to take the training.”

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) Please confirm that ALL INCUMBENTS ARE TO TAKE ALL THE TRAINING, including the one-time courses, even though they may, "maintain valid certification credentials."

Government Response: The incumbent guards will be required to take the training set forth in this RFP.

A 90-day Transition Period will be allowed under this requirement.

b) As, "Contract security officers and uniformed supervisors who worked under the predecessor...will also be required to take the training," please confirm that the incumbent Contractor, if successful, is also required to conduct this same training.

required to conduct this same training.

Government Response: The incumbent vendor, if successful will have to have all staff trained as outlined in this RFP. A 90-day Transition Period will be allowed under this requirement.

c) If this is not required of the incumbent, would the Government consider a stand-alone CLIN for transition costs so that full operational cost CLINs could be compared on a level playing field for all offerors?

Government Response: Please refer to page 28, Contract Pricing.

32. PWS section 1.6.19.3 states, “Any Contract employee who has successfully completed the initial training course under the predecessor’s contract will not be exempted from the initial firearms training requirements of this contract.

NOTE: Prior successful training completion by the Contract employee shall not exempt the contract employee from the semi-annual range qualification requirements.”

Question/Request for Clarification: This sounds contradictory. Please clarify.

Government Response: All personnel must requalify and re-train under this RFP requirement. There will be no carry over in the training and certifications from one contract to the next. Incumbent personnel are not exempt from the training requirements. A 90-day Transition Period will be allowed under this requirement.

33. Are all incumbent personnel certified and in compliance with all current firearms, suitability, licensing, training and permit requirements? If not, what requirements are new to this effort?

Government Response: This RFP requirement is not necessarily the same as the current contract requirement. Regardless, all guards new or retained must complete all aspects of training and certification required by this RFP. There is no carry over. There is a 90 day transition period in this

RFP.

34. Do all incumbent personnel have current medical/drug, CPR/AED/FA and Government training certifications?

Government Response: Yes. But it will not carry over. All incumbent guards will have to go through the processes and requirements as outlined in this RFP. There will be a 90-day transition period.

35. PWS section 4.1.1.2 states, "Each site will identify shift watch commanders to oversee guard operations 24/7 days for the respective site." Exhibit 1 identifies the site addresses. Andover and Memphis posts appear to be at one address each. Exhibit 2 (Covington) does not breakdown the posts by site address.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please clarify and specify the 24/7 watch commander requirement for each city and in the case of Covington, by address.

Government Response: There will be one (1) Site Supervisor and one (1) watch commander on each shift at each IRS Campus location (i.e. Andover, Covington, and Memphis).

36. PWS section 4.1 states, “The Contractor shall submit a Key Personnel Resume(s) clearly detailing the individual’s qualifications and demonstrating that the proposed PM, QCM, Site Supervisor, and Watch Commander meet the requirements listed here." Page 129 states, "The offeror must submit at a minimum resumes on the following Key Personnel that will be assigned under this requirement for each site location (Andover, MA; Covington, KY; and Memphis, TN): 1. Project Manager 2. Contract Manager 3.

Quality Control Manager 4. Site Supervisor 5. Watch Commander." Page 139 states, "Key personnel:

Security Supervisory Personnel; Project Manager; Contract Manager; Quality Control Manger; and all substitutes and/or back personnel. This is very confusing.

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) Who are the Key Personnel requiring resumes?

Government Response: Please refer to Section 4.1, KEY PERSONNEL and elsewhere in this amendment.

b) Are Key Personnel (1. Project Manager 2. Contract Manager 3. Quality Control Manager 4. Site Supervisor 5. Watch Commander, regardless) required at each site (city) — Andover, MA; Covington, KY; and Memphis, TN — as stated on page 129?

Government Response: No. Please refer to Section 4.1, KEY PERSONNEL and elsewhere in this amendment.

c) OR is only one PM, CM(?), QCM required to cover the three cities and their respective sites as a whole?

Government Response: Please refer to Section 4.1, KEY PERSONNEL and elsewhere in this amendment.

d) In KY, is one 24/7 Watch Commander required at each address OR one for each of the 2 cities OR one for the Covington area?

Government Response: Please see response to Question #35.

37. PWS page 129 Transition Plan states, “During the 90-day Transition Period, the following positions shall be staffed and the individuals shall be on-site prior to the contract start date as follows:”

Person Performing the Function of:

Project Manager - 90 Calendar Days Prior to Full Operational Start On-site Supervisor - 90 Calendar Days Prior to Full Operational Start

This section puts all but the incumbent Contractor at a huge disadvantage as they will not have to price ANY transition costs.

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) Depending on the answer to the question regarding whatever Key Personnel are required, does the Government provide on-site office space for these 4 to 6 people during transition and performance?

Government Response: No. The site supervisor is provided space but it would only be available at time of start-up. The Government will schedule conference room for use, if available.

b) Please confirm that these 4 to 6 people are to be on site for all 90 days.

Government Response: The key people are not required to be on-site for all 90 days, but must be on site as necessary for successful transition or as requested by the government.

c) Would the Government consider a stand-alone CLIN for transition costs so that full operational cost CLINs could be compared on a level playing field for all offerors?

Government Response: No. Please refer to page 28, Contract Pricing during the Base Period for transition pricing.

38. PWS section 4.4.9.2 states, "The contractor shall be responsible for parking fees and/or arrangements for security officers at certain downtown posts where parking is not available." This is not possible to bid without the information.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please identify parking rate structure and the annual cost for this in Andover, MA; Covington, KY; and Memphis, TN. This would negate the need for an economic adjustment after award.

Government Response: Each location has a multitude of public parking and transportation options available. Each offeror should research the available options and base their response on a business decision that best fits their plan. Andover and Memphis provide onsite parking without cost.

39. PWS section 5.15.1 states, "The Contractor shall obtain all applicable permits/licenses in accordance with Federal Regulations for the operation of such radio equipment….The Government, at its discretion, may identify the radio frequencies to be used by the contractor. A minimum of two frequencies will be required for the guard force. These frequencies shall be used by the security contractor and IRS Physical Security only. Exhibit 15 states in part(s), "must be capable of communicating with the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), Security Quality Inspector (SQI), local rescue and law enforcement as well as the contractor’s supervisory officials." AND "The Contractor will apply for an FCC license and authorization to operate in frequencies specified by the Government." AND "All two-way portable radio units must have the capability of transmitting and receiving clear and concise vocal transmissions on 2 channels between the security units, and be compatible with the base station and repeater frequencies."

PWS section 5.15.1.1 says the Government may identify frequencies & Ex 15 says “frequencies specified by the Government.” FCC frequencies available to security companies are not generally compatible with local rescue and law enforcement frequencies. If this is a requirement, they would have to be Government frequencies. When base stations are required, usually, the post exhibit would identify locations such as "Communications Center" or the like. There are not any post descriptions on Ex. 2.

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) Radios vary widely in price from $140 to $1800 each and the associated base and repeater systems are also very costly. In order to avoid an economic adjustment immediately after award, please identify the compatibility requirements for the Government provided frequencies such as UHF/VHF, FQ range, analog/digital, number of repeaters required to cover the property or P-25 compliance so we may bid the proper radios.

Government Response: Please refer to revised solicitation language in this amendment and Exhibit 15, Revision 1 of this amendment.

b) How many base stations are required? Please identify this in a revised Exhibit 2.

Government Response: Regarding base stations, One (1) will be required at each task location. 1- Andover, 1- Covington and 1- Memphis it will be located at the CSCC at each location. However, it is the offeror’s responsibility to fully understand and comply with the requirements of this RFP.

c) How many repeaters are required?

Government Response: As many as necessary to provide uninterrupted coverage within a 5 mile radius of each campus. However, it is the offeror’s responsibility to fully understand and comply with the requirements of this RFP.

d) Government provided frequencies would already be licensed. For compatibility, what are the Government frequencies that may be provided?

Government Response: Contractor must obtain license. Government will not provide the frequency or license.

40. PWS section 1.6.24.1 states in part, "CPR, AED, (adult, youth, and infant) and First Aid. Each guard shall be trained on the site AED equipment on-site where the work is performed. Annual refresher training is required in accordance with training Exhibit 6." Ex. 6 states this training is to be semi-annual.

Question/Request for Clarification: Which is it? Annual or semi-annual?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

41. PWS section 1.6.23 discusses Contractor-Provided Magnetometer/X-Ray Training but this is not listed on Ex. 6.

Question/Request for Clarification:

a) Please clarify and state the requirement, if any.

b) If this is a requirement, please confirm the site equipment can be used for this training.

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

42. Andover MA CBA wages are dated 10-1-14. Will the Government provide the current CBA addendum for wages?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment No. 006.

43. PWS section 1.6.25.1 states, "The Contractor is responsible for providing any training required by state or local jurisdictions pertaining to the use or carriage of any lethal or less-than lethal weapons (i.e.

Oleoresin Capsicum sprays (pepper spray) and ASP (expandable baton).), equipment, or devices required in this contract." There is no state or local training required in any of the 3 states for OC or baton. In the list section of Exhibit 15a it calls for a baton & OC "(if authorized & trained in state standards)" to be issued.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please clarify the requirement.

a) There is no state training for OC. Is OC to be issued regardless?

Government Response: Yes, it will be issued and training must be given and certification acquired under this RFP.

b) There is no state training for baton. Is a baton to be issued regardless?

Government Response: Yes. See response to #43(a).

c) If they are to be issued, please state the Government's training requirement.

Government Response: Certification by Certified instructor in the discipline. Please refer to Amendment #007.

44. From RFP Pg. 28 CONTRACT PRICING:

A. Propose a fixed-price per month for productive staff hours, which must include all direct and indirect costs, walk-time, guard mount, General and Administrative (G&A), and profit. The offeror must include transition pricing in its monthly billable price. This pricing structure shall apply to the Based Year Period Only.

B. Propose a fixed-price per month for productive staff hours, which must include all direct and indirect costs, General and Administrative (G&A), and profit. This pricing structure will apply to all renewable option year periods.

Question/Request for Clarification: Please confirm that paragraph B. is also to include walk-time and guard mount and only eliminate the sentence regarding transition pricing.

Government Response: Due to the current established Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) paragraph A considers walk-time and guard mount for the Base Period only. However, Paragraph B and subsequent renewable Option Year Periods do not include walk-time and guard mount. This RFP require all armed guards at each IRS site location to report to the contract site with holstered weapons or “duty ready”.

All the “0001” CLINs have a unit of “AJ” Question/Request for Clarification: What is AJ?

Government Response: “AJ” stands for adjustable unit. For the purposes of pricing, all “0001” CLINs should represent the offeror’s overall annual contract total for each performance period, based on the pricing provided in Sub-CLINs 0001A, 0001B, 0001C, etc.

45. Page 121, WRITTEN PROPOSAL FORMAT

A. Page: A page is defined as each face of an 8.5” x 11” sheet of paper containing information. All information (except for document numbers, page numbers, etc.) shall be provided in an image area of 7 x 9 inches. ….

B. Text: Type size shall not be smaller than, Microsoft Word font Arial, 11 point font, normal proportional spacing. Text lines will be a minimum of single-spaced, not to exceed 35 lines per page.

Single-column is the preferred format and use of bold face type for paragraph headings is acceptable.

Clarification: Please clarify the requirement for limiting a page to 35 lines.

Government Response: The estimated lines per page are based in part upon the required font, size and spacing of text, per the RFP. If the offeror is able to include additional lines per page without compromising the general format requirements in response to this RFP, the Government will allow up to a maximum of 45 lines.

Clarification: Please provide instructions as to how to use the 12 unused lines – e.g., shall bidders center the text on the page with six blank lines above and six blank lines below the text?

Government Response: How the offeror elects to structure its proposal based on the requirements of this RFP is a sole decision of the offeror.

46. Page 121, WRITTEN PROPOSAL FORMAT

B. Text: Type size shall not be smaller than, Microsoft Word font Arial, 11 point font, normal proportional spacing. ….

C. Illustrations and Tables: Charts, tables or diagrams shall not exceed 8.5” x 11” inches. Illustrations and tables shall be included in the volume page count requirements

Question: Arial 11 is a large font for graphics and causes word “wrapping” issues in tables. While keeping all text to Arial 11, can illustrations and tables use Arial Narrow 10?

Government Response: No.

47. Page 55, 4.4.5 - The Contractor shall submit all required Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation and first-aid certifications for each officer to the site SQI within 10 days after receipt of the award notice. The Contractor shall ensure that all certificates are in accordance with the requirements of the American Red Cross. ASOs shall carry a copy of their certification cards while on duty at all times.

Question/Statement: This requirement can be met only by the incumbent contractor because the hiring process cannot be properly completed within 10 days of receipt of award notice. In practice, the guards need this completed prior to their initial Entry on Duty on the first day of contract performance.

Therefore, with a 90 day Transition, please consider requiring this to be completed no later than 20 days prior to first day of contract start.

Government Response: Please refer to revised solicitation language in this amendment.

48. QUALITY CONTROL PLAN, multiple references as follow:

REF: Page 57, PWS 4.9 QUALITY CONTROL PLAN - The contractor shall establish a contract is provided as specified. Within ten (10) days after award, the successful contractor shall submit a copy of the Quality Control Plan to the COR for approval.

REF: Page 125, FACTOR #1: TECHNICAL, QUALITY CONTROL PLAN - The offeror shall submit in response to this RFP a detail Quality Contract Plan in accordance with the RFP and Section 4.4 of the PWS.

Question: Do you require that a Quality Control Plan be submitted with the proposal or 10 days after contract award?

Government Response: Ten (10) days after award to the COR. Submit the plan as required as part of the solicitation or as otherwise required.

Question: Please clarify the statement above that has been extracted from the PWS since the first sentence is somewhat confusing.

Government Response:

Section 4.9 – QUALITY CONTROL PLAN is hereby amended to read the following:

QUALITY CONTROL PLAN – The contractor shall, within ten (10) days after award, submit a copy of the final Quality Control Plan to the COR for approval. The plan must include at a minimum, the description of the type, level, frequency of inspections performed by the Contractor’s QCM, including the following: (This does not pertain to routine inspections performed by Watch Commander and/or Site Supervisors as part of their normal duties.)

Question: If required with the proposal, can the plan be an attachment because the plan will use up the page count?

Government Response: Yes.

Clarification: The instructions on page 125 references PWS section 4.4, however should this be section 4.9?

Government Response: Section 4.9 is a component of Section 4.4, Other Deliverables.

49. Page 128 FACTOR #2: MANAGEMENT, KEY PERSONNEL - The offeror must submit at a minimum resumes on the following Key Personnel that will be assigned under this requirement for each site location.

The offeror shall submit key personnel resumes clearly documenting and meeting the requirements outlined in the RFP and PWS. Submitted key personnel resumes must be comprehensive and clearly demonstrate the individual’s qualifications, skillset and ability for performing the services required by the contract.

Any alleged special training and/certifications obtained by key personnel documented in resumes must be supported by copies of the certificates of completion, etc.

Clarification: With five (5) resumes required for each of the three (3) sites, that is a total of fifteen (15) resumes. The resumes also must include copies of certifications. The result is that each resume is a minimum of two (2) pages, probably more. Therefore, at least 30 pages of the 50 maximum for Factor #2 will be used up by the resumes. Please consider exempting the resumes from the page count, or at least exempt copies of the certifications.

Government Response: Change Proposal Preparation Instructions –VOLUME 1: TECHNICAL PROPOSAL to read the following:

Offerors shall submit one (1) signed original proposal via e-FAX at 855-269-0203 (PROPOSALS ONLY) to the attention of: Bernadette Gross-Briggs, CO. The offeror is limited to 60 pages to address Factor #1, Technical and 60 pages to address Factor #2, Management. Factor #3, Past Performance is excluded from page count.

50. Page 128, FACTOR #2: MANAGEMENT, CORPORATE CAPABILITY (third paragraph): The offeror shall provide evidence of established, written policies at the corporate level which sufficiently and effectively demonstrates contract support service, management oversight and quality control based on the requirements of the RFP. The offerors written policies shall be consistent with industry standards and shall be reflective of the requirements of this solicitation. The established policies must demonstrate the offeror’s ability to provide effective oversight of a requirement of this size and magnitude. The offeror’s written policies shall be comprehensive and clear

Question: What constitutes “evidence of established, written policies”?

Government Response: Offerors must submit examples of occurrence when you have had to establish corporate level documents of this scope (i.e. development of Use of Force Policies, HR policies, Training Policies, etc.). Submitted examples and samples should demonstrate a comprehensive corporate level overview and should be of similar size and scope as this RFP.

Question: If copies of the policies have to be submitted with the proposal, can they be submitted as attachments and not included in the page count?

Government Response: No.

Note: Each of the following subjects is required to be addressed in both FACTOR #1 and in

FACTOR #2.

51. Addressing portions of the PWS, multiple references as follow:

REF: Page 125, FACTOR #1: TECHNICAL states: By addressing each portion of the PWS, proposals must describe in detail the offeror's understanding of the requirement, assessment of the objectives to be accomplished, and methodology for accomplishing the requirement.

REF: Page 128, FACTOR #2: MANAGEMENT states: By addressing each portion of the PWS, proposals must describe in detail the offeror's understanding of the requirement, assessment of the objectives to be accomplished, and methodology for accomplishing the requirement.

Question: Is it the government’s intention for bidder to repeat each element of the PWS in both the Factor #1: Technical and Factor #2: Management? Or should the details of accomplishing the PWS be addressed in the Technical Approach, and in the Management factor address how offeror will manage the program?

Government Response: Yes. The details for accomplishing the requirement of the PWS as stated in Factor #1 must be addressed clearly in the technical approach. And, the offeror must address clearly how they will manage the program as stated in Factor #2.

Note: Offerors are cautioned that “parroting” the PWS with a statement of intent to perform does not reflect understanding of the requirement or capability to perform and may therefore be deemed “unacceptable”.

52. TRANSITION PLAN, multiple references as follow:

REF: Page 125, FACTOR #1: TECHNICAL states: The offeror must provide a description in detail their plan for the transition-in and transition-out services and must not exceed 90 days combined total for the transition services.

REF: Page 127, FACTOR #1: TECHNICAL, PROGRAM CONTROL states: The offeror shall submit a projected Transition Schedule… The offeror is required to submit a detailed transition milestone schedule which clearly demonstrates compliance with the 90-day transition period.

REF: Page 128, FACTOR #2: MANAGEMENT, KEY PERSONNEL states: The offer shall submit a Transition Plan with their proposal that is in sufficient detail to identify all transition actions with detail milestone schedules which is consistent with the 90 day transition period. …

REF: Page 129, FACTOR #2: MANAGEMENT, TRANSITION PLAN states: During the 90-day Transition Period, the following positions shall be staffed and the individuals shall be on-site prior to the contract start date …

… The offeror must describe in detail the transition plan… demonstrating the approaches for providing the corporate resources necessary to ensure and maintain service quality levels, staffing levels, training and risk management activities.

Question: The RFP’s instructions ask for elements of the Transition Plan in four places - two in Factor #1 and two in Factor #2. Is it the Government’s intention that bidders include a transition plan in both Factor #1 Technical and Factor #2 Management?

Government Response: The following language is removed from Section 2.1 Factor #1, TECHNICAL, page 125, “The offeror must provide a description in detail their plan for the transition-in and transition-out services and must not exceed 90 days combined total for the transition.”

Remove the following language from page 127, PROGRAM CONTROL, paragraph 4, “The offeror shall submit a projected Transition Schedule, Project Oversight Management Plan, and Staffing Plan to illustrate the offeror capability to accomplish the stated requirements of the PWS and RFP. The offeror is required to submit a detailed transition milestone schedule which clearly demonstrates compliance with the 90-day transition period.”

Remove the following language from page 128, Factor #2: MANAGEMENT, KEY PERSONNEL, paragraph 1, “The offeror shall submit a Transition Plan with their proposal that is in sufficient detail to identify all transition actions with detail milestone schedules which is consistent with the 90 day transition period. The offeror must provide a detailed plan to ensure compliance with E.O. 13495, Non- Displacement of Qualified Workers is met.”

Question: May offerors submit a detailed Transition Plan and schedule in Factor #2: Management and cross reference it in Factor #1: Technical?

Government Response: Please submit a detailed Transition Plan and schedule in Factor #2, MANAGEMENT: TRANSITION PLAN.

Question: Does the paragraph about transition found on page 128 under KEY PERSONNEL belong on page 129 under TRANSITION PLAN?

Government Response: Yes.

53. Required PLANS, multiple references as follow:

REF: Page 127, FACTOR#1: TECHNICAL, PROGRAM CONTROL states: The offeror shall submit a projected Transition Schedule, Project Oversight Management Plan, and Staffing Plan to illustrate the offeror capability to accomplish the stated requirements of the PWS and RFP. The offeror is required to submit a detailed transition milestone schedule which clearly demonstrates compliance with the 90-day transition period.

REF: Page 129, FACTOR#2: MANAGEMENT, TRANSITION PLAN states: The offeror must describe in detail the transition plan, project oversight management plan, and staffing plans demonstrating the approaches for providing the corporate resources necessary to ensure and maintain service quality levels, staffing levels, training and risk management activities.

Question: The RFP’s instructions ask for the same three (3) required plans - Transition Schedule/Plan, Project Oversight Management Plan, and Staffing Plan - in multiple places. Is it the government’s intention that bidders insert the same three plans in both Factor #1 and Factor #2?

Government Response: Please see response to Question #52.

54. Required APPROACH TO MANAGING, multiple references as follow:

REF: Page 127, FACTOR#1: TECHNICAL, PROGRAM CONTROL states: The offeror’s proposal shall be comprehensive and clearly outline the offeror’s approach for managing a requirement of this size and magnitude.

REF: Page 129, FACTOR#2: MANAGEMENT, TRANSITION PLAN states: The offeror shall submit a narrative describing its approach for managing a requirement of this size and scope.

Question: Is it the government’s intention that bidders insert the same information in both Factor #1 and Factor #2, or since this requires information about how offeror will manage the project, does it belong in Factor #2?

Government Response: See response to Question #52.

55. Evaluation Factor #3, Past Performance, requires offerors to submit a completed Past Performance Questionnaire. Are offerors required to provide the Past Performance Questionnaire to their respective government contract representatives for completion and request them to be returned back to the offeror for inclusion with their proposal?

Government Response: Completed PPQ responses must be submitted to the attention of Bernadette Gross-Briggs via e-FAX at 855-269-0203 by the RFP response due date. Please include the RFP No.and your company name on the coversheet.

56. With the elimination of the 300 point FPS Federal Police Officer firearms course of fire, will you be issuing the 250 point FPS Contract Guard firearms course?

Government Response: Please see response to Question#25.

57. Offerors shall provide the following information:

Audited financial statements complete with notes for the last two completed fiscal years and the most recent year-to-date actual financial data. If audited financial statements are not available, then the offeror shall also provide tax returns from the two most recent fiscal years, with the unaudited financial statements.

If we cannot produce this requirement due to us creating a new JV company, how would you like for us fulfil this requirement?

Government Response: The offeror is responsible for determining the appropriate method for meeting the requirements of this RFP.

58. The RFP includes the CBA for Andover, MA and is a CBA with SPFPA (no Local given). However the wage and benefit date only extends only thru September 30, 2015. There are no wage and benefits listed covering the contract year of 2016 and going forward into 2017. Can we receive a copy of the current Wage Determination/CBA or MOU?

Government Response: Offerors have been provided with applicable and most current CBAs of each IRS site location.

59. What is the current weapons platform in use for each location? Make/Model?

Government Response: Please refer to the RFP for requirements of this solicitation.

60. Do the incumbent PSOs meet the medical/physical requirements as described in this RFP/SOW or will everyone require new medical exams?

Government Response: Armed guards providing services under this requirement is referred to as “Armed Security Officer” (i.e. ASO). Please refer to the RFP for requirements of this solicitation.

61. Can you provide seniority lists for each site so we may calculate vacation benefits per the Executive Order 13495 and the SCA?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #005 and #006.

62. Do any of the posts listed in Exhibit 2 for all three states’ locations include Watch Commanders or Site Supervisors?

Government Response: Site Supervisors are not included. Three (3) Watch Commander posts per site.

are included.

63. In Covington, KY in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 5th Post listed shows hours of 0530-1730 and 2400-0200 for 5 days a week. (totaling 14 hours) Yet it shows in the Week Day Hours column 16 hours per day for (1) ASO. Should it show 14 hours a day in this column, or should the times read something like 2200-0200?

64. In Covington, KY in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 8th Post listed shows hours of 0530-1700 Yet it shows in the Week Day Hours column 11 hours per day for

(1) ASO. Should it show 11.5 hours a day in this column, or should the times read something like 0530- 1630 per day?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

65. In Covington, KY in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 10th Post listed shows hours of 0530-1830 (totaling 13 hours) for 2 ASOs. Yet it shows in the Weekly Hours column 65 hours per week, which is the total for only (1) ASO. The Total Annual hours shows 6,526 which is the total for 2 ASOs. Should it show 130 hours a week in this column, or should it only reflect one (1) ASO in the Week Day Hours column and change the annual total?

66. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 3rd Post listed shows hours of 0530-0830 (totaling 3 hours) for 1 ASOs for 7 days a week, totaling 21 hours a week.. Yet it shows in the Total Annual Days column 251 days which is consistent with 5 days a week, and the annual total of 753 hours which is consistent with 5 days a week. Does this 3 hour post work 5 days a week or 7 days a week (7 days totals 1,095 hours per year)?

67. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 5th Post listed shows hours of 0600-2100 (totaling 15 hours) for 1 ASO for 5 days a week including holidays.

Yet it shows in the Week Day Hours column 17 hours for one ASO. The annual total hours show 4,267 hours which is consistent with 17 hours not counting holidays. Is it 15 hours a day or 17 hours a day, and are holidays included or not?

68. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 7th Post listed shows hours of 0530-1930 (totaling 14 hours) for 2 ASOs for 5 days a week not including holidays. Yet it shows in the Weekly Hours column 70 hours and 3,514 hours which are the figures for one ASO. Should it reflect only one ASO, or be two ASOs for a weekly total of 140 hours and an annual total of 7,028 hours?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

69. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 8th Post listed shows hours of 1500-1800 (totaling 3 hours) for 2 ASOs for 5 days a week not including holidays. This is six (6) hours a day and 30 hours a week, yet the Weekly hours column only reflects 15 hours a week and totaling753 annual hours. Should this time frame on this post be only one ASO or two?

If it is two, shouldn’t the weekly hours show 30 hours, and the annual total 1,506 hours?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

70. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 9th Post listed a split shift with hours of 0530-0800 (2.5 hrs), 1430-1700 (2.5 hrs), and 2300-0100 (2 hrs).

These three sections total 7 hours per day, yet the Week Day Hours column only shows one ASO for 6 hours a day, 30 hours a week, and 1,506 hours a year. If the 7 hours a day is correct, shouldn’t this extend out to 35 hours a week and 1,757 hours per year?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

71. In Memphis, TN in the Post Hour Requirements listed in Exhibit 2 (per Amendment 0002) the 11th Post listed a split shift with hours of 0530-0830 (3 hrs), 1130-1730 (6 hrs), and 2300-0100 (2 hrs). These three sections total 11 hours per day, yet the Week Day Hours column only shows one ASO for 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, and 2,008 hours a year. If the 11 hours a day is correct, shouldn’t this extend out to 55 hours a week and 2,761 hours per year?

Government Response: Please refer to Amendment #007.

72. Key Personnel.

Section 4.1, page 51 states: “The Contractor shall submit a Key Personnel Resume(s) clearly detailing the individual’s qualifications and demonstrating that the proposed PM, QCM, Site Supervisor, and Watch Commander meet the requirements listed here.”

Section 2.0 EVALUATION FACTOR CRITERIA, KEY PERSONNEL on page 129 states the offeror must submit at a minimum resumes on the following Key Personnel that will be assigned under this requirement for…