Tusquitee Ranger District Complex Janitorial Services, Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the Janitorial Services solicitation for Tusquitee Ranger District Complex, Nantahala National Forest.

• Flooring Ratio: There is no carpet; only a few carpeted floor mats at main entrances.
• Restrooms: A total of 8 restrooms require cleaning.
• Visit Schedule: Evening weekdays are acceptable; Monday & Thursday are preferred but not mandatory for twice-weekly visits.
• Equipment: Mop buckets and wringers are government-furnished.
• Storage: Most buildings have designated storage, but the fitness room and exterior restroom building do not.
• Subcontractor Consent Form: Requested to be submitted with the quote to assist in past performance relevancy assessment.
• Window Cleaning: This is an optional CLIN (37) and requires separate pricing.
• Incumbent Information: Available within the solicitation post.
• Site Visit: A third optional site visit before the June 8th deadline is not available due to project time constraints.

This Q&A document clarifies specific operational details and submission requirements, including the need for separate pricing for optional services and the submission of subcontractor consent forms with the quote. It also confirms the unavailability of a third site visit.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a Schedule of Items, detailing the tasks and quantities for janitorial services at the Tusquitee Complex. It outlines the services required for a Base Ordering Period and four subsequent Ordering Periods, plus an optional 6-month extension.

• Tasks/Services: Includes sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, trash removal, restroom cleaning, dusting, kitchen cleaning, exterior area cleaning, work center cleaning, and fitness room maintenance.
• Units: Services are quantified by Twice Weekly (TW), Weekly (W), Monthly (M), Quarterly (Q), Annually (A), and specific item counts.
• Quantities: Specific quantities are listed for each task per ordering period.
• Pricing: Price per Unit and Total Cost columns are present but show $0.0 for all items, indicating that pricing is to be determined or will be provided separately.
• Ordering Periods: Covers a Base Period (July 6, 2026 - July 5, 2027), four 12-month Ordering Periods, and a 6-month optional period (July 6, 2031 - December 5, 2031).
• Frequency Codes: Definitions for TW, W, M, Q, and A are provided.

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the specific janitorial tasks and their expected frequencies and quantities over the potential contract period. Bidders will use this schedule to understand the scope of work and to develop their pricing proposals. The zero dollar amounts suggest that bidders are expected to fill in their proposed pricing for each line item.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment modifies the solicitation/contract for the following reasons:

• Adds an optional extension in accordance with clause 52.217-8, specifically referencing items 5001 and 5002.

• Includes Questions and Answers (Q&A).

• Confirms that all other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

• The Period of Performance is updated to 07/06/2026 to 07/05/2031.

• Items 5001 and 5002 are listed as "Tusquitee Complex Janitorial Services" with an "Optional extension per 52.217-8", priced per month, referencing schedules of items 5001-5036 and 5037 respectively.

• The amendment extends the hour and date specified for receipt of offers. Specific details on the new deadline are not provided in this excerpt but are implied to be communicated via the Q&A or other means.

• Bidders are instructed to acknowledge receipt of this amendment.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0002) to solicitation 12444126Q0032 provides information regarding an optional site visit.

• Item 9A (Amendment of Solicitation No.): References solicitation 12444126Q0032.

• Item 9B (Dated): References the original solicitation date of 05/07/2026.

• Item 11 (This item only applies to amendments of solicitations): Indicates the solicitation is amended and the receipt of offers is not extended.

• Item 14 (Description of Amendment/Modification): Details the optional site visit information.

• Continuation Sheet (Page 2): States that all other terms and conditions remain unchanged and confirms the Period of Performance as 07/06/2026 to 07/05/2031.

• The deadline for receipt of offers is not extended.

• An optional site visit is scheduled for Monday, 6/1/2026, at the Tusquitee Ranger District (123 Woodland Drive, Murphy, NC 289056). Interested parties must contact Julia Boxley (julia.boxley@usda.gov) to schedule a specific time.

• No correspondence, questions, or proposals will be accepted at the site visit.

• Scheduled visits are required; unannounced visits are not accepted.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment to the solicitation (originally numbered 12444126Q0032, dated 05/07/2026) provides information regarding a coordinated optional site visit.

• The primary change is the addition of site visit details.

• The amendment does not extend the deadline for offer receipt.

• It informs interested parties of an optional site visit.

• Address: Tusquitee Ranger District, 123 Woodland Drive, Murphy, NC 289056

• Time: Tuesday, 5/19/2026 at 04:00 PM EST

• RSVP Contact: Julia Boxley (julia.boxley@usda.gov) no later than 5/18/2026 at 04:00 PM EST.

• All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged.

• The Period of Performance is from 07/06/2026 to 07/05/2031.

Other / Unclassified

This document announces a mandatory site visit for Solicitation 12444126Q0032, related to Tusquitee Ranger District Complex Janitorial Services at Nantahala National Forest NC.

• Site Visit Date and Time: Tuesday, May 19th, 2026, at 1600 Eastern Time.
• Location: Tusquitee Ranger District, 123 Woodland Drive, Murphy, NC 289056.
• Purpose of Site Visit: To allow prospective vendors to view project areas before submitting a quote. This visit does not obligate the Government to award a contract and does not reimburse costs.
• Questions: Can be submitted before, during, or up to 24 hours after the site visit. Responses will be posted on SAM.gov.
• RSVP: Vendors must RSVP to Contract Specialist Julia Boxley at ioulia.boxley@usda.gov no later than Monday, May 18th, 1700 Eastern Time.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Schedule of Items, detailing the tasks and services required for janitorial services at the Tusquitee Complex. It outlines the quantities and units for various cleaning tasks across different areas and periods.

• Base Ordering Period (July 6, 2026 - July 5, 2027): Details tasks such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, trash removal, restroom cleaning, dusting, kitchen cleaning, drinking fountain cleaning, outside area cleaning, work center cleaning, and fitness room cleaning. Includes an optional window cleaning service.
• Four Subsequent 12-Month Ordering Periods: Repeats the same detailed list of janitorial tasks and services as the base period.
• Optional 6-Month Period (July 6, 2031 - December 5, 2031): Lists janitorial tasks with reduced quantities, likely for a shorter extension.
• Frequency Codes: Definitions are provided for service frequencies: TW (Twice Weekly), W (Weekly), M (Monthly), Q (Quarterly), A (Annual).
• Pricing: All listed prices per unit and total costs are $0.0, indicating this is a schedule of services and quantities rather than a finalized pricing proposal.

This schedule provides potential bidders with a clear understanding of the scope of janitorial services expected, the frequency of these services, and the specific areas to be covered. Bidders can use this information to estimate their own costs and determine their capability to meet the requirements for each ordering period.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for Tusquitee Ranger District Complex Janitorial Services in Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina. The government intends to award a firm-fixed price Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) with a base year and four (4) twelve (12)-month ordering periods, for a total duration not to exceed five (5) years.

• The primary service required is janitorial services for the Tusquitee Ranger District Complex.

• Detailed requirements are outlined in "C04_Statement of Work_12444126Q0032".

• Offerors must provide a detailed explanation of their ability to perform the required services, addressing sections 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 of the SOW.

• Offerors must also explain any requirements in the SOW they cannot accomplish.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed Price Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA).

• Period of Performance: Base year plus four (4) one-year ordering periods, not to exceed five (5) years total.

• The contract includes options to extend services (FAR 52.217-8) for up to six (6) months.

• Offerors must submit pricing for all items to be considered responsive.

• Evaluation will be based on the lowest price technically acceptable criteria.

• Price will be evaluated for the base period, all ordering periods, and potential extensions.

• Technical Acceptability will be rated as "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on the offeror's ability to meet requirements.

• Past Performance will be evaluated as "Acceptable," "Neutral," or "Unacceptable."

• Offerors must submit the following documents: signed SF1449, Schedule of Items, Past Performance Information Worksheet, Subcontractor Consent Form (if applicable), Technical Approach, and acknowledgement of amendments.

• Offerors' prices must be held firm for 90 calendar days from the offer due date.

• The NAICS code is 561720 with a size standard of $22.

• The solicitation is set aside as 100.00% for Small Business.

• Offer Due Date: June 8, 2026, 1700 ET.

• Questions Due: June 2, 2026, 1700 ET. Submit questions via email to ioulia.boxley@usda.gov.

• This solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference, including FAR 52.212-4 (Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services) and various other clauses related to labor standards, small business, and certifications.

• Wage Determinations for Service Contract Labor Standards are included or will be provided upon request.

Statement of Work (SOW)

To provide janitorial services for the Tusquitee Ranger District Complex at Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina.

This contract covers custodial services for the Main Office, Work Center, Orchard Building Office, Workout Room, and an outside Restroom Building. Services include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, trash removal, cleaning restrooms, kitchens, and common areas. Specific tasks and frequencies are detailed for each area.

• Place of Performance: Tusquitee Ranger District, 123 Woodland Drive, Murphy, NC 289056.

• Period of Performance: One Base Period of 12 months (07/06/2026 - 07/05/2027) and four Ordering Periods of 12 months each.

• Service Hours: Janitorial services are to be performed after normal office hours (after 4:30 PM EST) or on weekends, unless otherwise negotiated.

• Services must be performed in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and commercial best practices.

• Specific cleaning frequencies are outlined for various tasks (e.g., 2x weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually).

• Inspection of work will be accomplished at regular intervals by the COR or designated project inspector.

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price.

• Contractor Personnel: Must be qualified, experienced (minimum 1 year janitorial experience), and undergo background checks. Personnel must be identifiable and conduct themselves professionally.

• Government Furnished: The Government will provide trash can liners, paper towels, liquid hand soap, toilet paper, a vacuum cleaner, and keys.

• Cleaning Supplies: The contractor is responsible for providing most cleaning supplies, including Windex, Clorox, Pine Sol, toilet cleaner, scrubbing powder, bathroom cleaner, mops, and spray disinfectant.

• Safety: Adherence to OSHA standards is required. Accidents must be reported within 24 hours.

• Security: Contractor personnel must abide by all security regulations. Keys are government property and must be returned upon contract completion. Unauthorized access or disturbance of government property is prohibited.

• Emergencies: Contractor must respond to emergencies as directed by the COR/Alternate.

Wage Determination

This document is a Wage Determination (No. 2015-4417, Revision No. 31) issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment Standards Administration, Wage and Hour Division. It establishes minimum wage rates and fringe benefits for various occupations in North Carolina, specifically for the counties of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey.

• Applicability: This wage determination applies to contracts covered by the Service Contract Act.
• Occupational Listings: The document provides a detailed list of occupations, each with a corresponding occupation code, title, and minimum hourly wage rate. It also includes footnotes for specific occupations that may have additional requirements or exclusions.
• Fringe Benefits: Fringe benefits are required and follow the occupational listing. Specific benefits mentioned include:
  • Health & Welfare: $5.55 per hour (up to 40 hours/week) or $222.00 per week.
  • Health & Welfare (EO 13706): $5.09 per hour (up to 40 hours/week) or $203.60 per week, applicable to SCA-covered contracts also covered by EO 13706.
  • Vacation: 2 weeks after 1 year, 3 weeks after 8 years, 4 weeks after 20 years of service.
  • Holidays: A minimum of eleven paid holidays per year.
• Executive Orders:
  • EO 13706 (Paid Sick Leave): Applies to contracts awarded on or after January 1, 2017, requiring 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 56 hours annually.
  • EO 13658 (Minimum Wage): Applies to contracts awarded between January 1, 2015, and January 29, 2022 (and not renewed/extended after January 30, 2022). Requires a minimum wage of at least $13.30 per hour (or the listed wage determination rate, if higher) for 2025.
• Conformance Process: Outlines the procedure for contractors to request additional classifications and wage rates if an occupation is not listed in the determination.

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the minimum labor costs associated with performing services in the specified North Carolina counties. It directly impacts the pricing of proposals and ensures compliance with federal labor laws for service contracts.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Past Performance Reference Information Worksheet" intended to be completed by offerors. It serves as a template for providing detailed information about previous contracts to assist the government in evaluating past performance.

• Customer Information: Name and address of the contracting agency or commercial firm.
• Contract Details: Contract number, dates of contract, start and end dates of work, initial and final invoiced amounts.
• Points of Contact: Technical and contracting/purchasing points of contact for the referenced contract.
• Location of Work: Country, state/province, county, and city where the work was performed.
• Description of Work: Nature and scope of the contract work, including any performance issues, conflicts, litigation, or corrective actions.
• Current Status: Selection from predefined options indicating the contract's current status (e.g., continuing, completed, terminated).

Bidders will need to complete this worksheet for each relevant past performance reference they wish to submit. The information provided here will be used by the government to assess the bidder's experience and performance on previous contracts, which is a critical factor in the evaluation of proposals for this opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is Attachment 5, the "Subcontractor Information and Consent Form." It is required for major subcontractors and/or teaming partners participating in the response to Request for Quote 12444126Q0016 for Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) for Enoree Ranger District Janitorial Services. The form serves to obtain consent for the release of past performance information from subcontractors/teaming partners to the prime contractor.

• Identification of the participating firm (subcontractor/teaming partner) and the prime contractor or entity providing the proposal.
• Confirmation of the specific solicitation (RFQ 12444126Q0016) and the service (Enoree Ranger District Janitorial Services).
• A section for the subcontractor/teaming partner to provide three references (contract number, title, their role, work performed, reference POC name, phone, and email). These references should not be from the proposing prime contractor.
• Signature and title of an individual authorized to bind the company.

This form is mandatory for any major subcontractor or teaming partner. Bidders must ensure their subcontractors/teaming partners complete and submit this form. The information provided will be used by the Government to assess past performance relevancy as part of the source selection process. Failure to submit this form for major subcontractors/teaming partners may impact the offeror's consideration.