CONTRACTOR SELECTED – March 25, 2009
The commercial activity study of West Point’s Directorate of Public Works began in September 2006. The competition establishes federal policy for deciding whether to keep recurring, commercial-like activities within the government or contract them out to a private source. The guidance tells how to compare performance and cost related information to arrive at the best overall value for the taxpayer.
Col. Daniel Bruno, West Point’s Garrison Commander, gave the news to DPW employees during briefings at Eisenhower Hall. He praised the study team for making a “tremendous effort” in the competitive process.
“Although the organization proposed by our government employees was not selected, the most efficient organization team put together an aggressive proposal and I’d like to commend them for their innovative approach and critical look at streamlining opportunities,” Bruno said. “I will work to ensure a smooth transition period and an environment in which all displaced federal employees receive the utmost support.
The goal of competitive sourcing is to ensure West Point's public works operations and maintenance are provided in the most efficient and effective manner possible." he added. A 20-day public review and appeal period must now be completed. After this time, federal government employees and private competitors can review documentation of the cost comparison.
"During this 20-day review period directly interested parties may contest the decision if they feel an error was made," said David Bugger of the directorate of contracting. "If a contest is filed during this designated timeframe, an administrative board will then review the contest and render a decision prior to the process moving forward."West Point Civilian Personnel Advisory Center officials said qualified employees have the right of first refusal with the contractor and are entitled to register with the government's Priority Placement Program.
"CPAC personnel will work on placing as many employees as possible into other positions," said Carol McQuinn, West Point's civilian personnel director.
West Point initially conducted a management study of the DPW to decide the most cost-effective and efficient methods necessary to meet mission needs. That work is described in the Performance Work Statement. Both the government and the contractor developed their proposals based on the PWS.
About West Point
West Point, The U.S. Military Academy, is a four-year co-educational federal undergraduate liberal arts college located 50 miles north of New York City. The world's preeminent leader development institution, it was founded in 1802 as America's first college of engineering. Its mission remains constant-to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the Nation as an officer in the United States Army. For more information, go to www.westpoint.edu