Difference between revisions of "LPA:136.4 Consultant Selection and Consultant Contract Management"
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− | '''Invoice Detail.''' The invoice template found in [[media:136.4.10 Nov 15, 2012.xlsx|Fig. 136.4.10]] MUST be used for prime consultant invoices. Sub-consultants who have a contract with the prime that is greater than $25,000 must either use Fig. 136.4.10 or provide all the information that is listed in this figure to be considered acceptable. Each invoice must be submitted with the necessary supporting documentation and must be numbered in sequential order and label the final invoice as FINAL. An example invoice can be found in [[media:136.4.17 | + | '''Invoice Detail.''' The invoice template found in [[media:136.4.10 Nov 15, 2012.xlsx|Fig. 136.4.10]] MUST be used for prime consultant invoices. Sub-consultants who have a contract with the prime that is greater than $25,000 must either use Fig. 136.4.10 or provide all the information that is listed in this figure to be considered acceptable. Each invoice must be submitted with the necessary supporting documentation and must be numbered in sequential order and label the final invoice as FINAL. An example invoice can be found in [[media:136.4.17 Dec 2012.xlsx|Fig. 136.4.17]]. This invoice shows example information to help customers fill out the document. |
The invoice shall be based on the total incurred cost during the invoice period, minus any no non-participating costs incurred. Invoices should identify each task in the scope of work, as well as the employees and hours spent on each task during the invoice period. Direct costs should also be shown by task. | The invoice shall be based on the total incurred cost during the invoice period, minus any no non-participating costs incurred. Invoices should identify each task in the scope of work, as well as the employees and hours spent on each task during the invoice period. Direct costs should also be shown by task. |
Revision as of 10:40, 21 December 2012
Contents
- 1 136.4.1 Introduction
- 2 136.4.2 Solicitation & Selection Process
- 2.1 136.4.2.1 Qualification Based Selection (QBS) Flowchart
- 2.2 136.4.2.2 Step 1 – Scope of Services
- 2.3 136.4.2.3 Step 2 - Creating an RFQ Document
- 2.4 136.4.2.4 Step 3 - Advertising the RFQ Solicitation
- 2.5 136.4.2.5 Step 4 - Response to the RFQ
- 2.6 136.4.2.6 Step 5 - Selection of Consultant
- 2.7 136.4.2.7 Step 6 - Consultant Contract Negotiations
- 2.8 136.4.2.8 Step 7 - Consultant Contract Submittal to MoDOT
- 2.9 136.4.2.9 MoDOT Review of Consultant Contract
- 2.10 136.4.2.10 PE Funding Obligation
- 2.11 136.4.2.11 CE Funding Obligation
- 3 136.4.3 Consultant Contract Management
- 4 136.4.4 Key Submittals/Requirements
136.4.1 Introduction
If the LPA (local public agency) is not adequately staffed to provide the necessary engineering, architectural, land surveying, right of way and related services (including utility negotiations), they may hire a consultant to provide professional services. Professional services are defined under the federal law, the Brooks Act, 40 USC 1102. Please note that Right of Way Acquisition and Negotiations are NOT defined as a professional service and therefore the Brooks Act does not apply to those services. For more information on Right of Way please refer to EPG 136.8 Local Public Agency Land Acquisition.
MoDOT has a website dedicated to the LPA Program. Please see Missouri’s Local Program – Consultant Info tab for more LPA-Consultant information.
136.4.1.1 Federal Law
The Brooks Act, 40 USC 1102, 23 CFR 172.3 (Public Law 92-582, 1972) requires agencies to “promote open competition by advertising, ranking, selecting and negotiating contracts based on demonstrated competence and qualifications for the type of engineering and design services being procured, and at a fair and reasonable price.” This requirement applies to all federally funded projects. This is commonly referred to as Qualifications Based Selection or QBS, meaning a firm is chosen based on qualifications and not price.
136.4.1.2 State Law
Commonly referred to as the “Mini-Brooks Act”, the State of Missouri, in sections 8.285 thru 8.291 RsMO, requires Qualification Based Selection (QBS) for all architectural, engineering and land surveying professional services and reflects the language contained in the federal legislation. This requirement applies to ALL projects in Missouri regardless if it contains federal funds or not. Keep in mind that the Federal Laws supersede the State Laws if the project has federal funding.
136.4.1.3 Funding
Consultant selection, including execution of the contract, is a process done BEFORE any federal dollars are obligated to the project. Therefore any dollars spent in this process are NOT eligible for federal reimbursement.
In Missouri, the same consultant can be hired to perform Preliminary Engineering (PE) and Construction Engineering (CE) work. Please refer to EPG 136.3 Federal Aid Basics for more information on funding.
136.4.1.3.1 Preliminary Engineering (PE)
PE charges are permitted through the construction contract award. Any engineering charges to the project after the construction contract award are considered construction engineering (CE) and will not be charged against the design portion of the project. If a modification is made to the plans during construction, all funding for this will be CE funds not PE funds.
Right of way project cost estimates; title work, right of way plan development and legal description writing may be included in the same agreement with Design Services and are reimbursable as preliminary engineering (PE) expenses. All other eligible right of way acquisition activities cannot begin until the A-Date has been approved and the LPA has been notified, any acquisition activities that occur before the A-Date will not be eligible for reimbursement. See EPG 136.8 for more right of way information.
136.4.1.3.2 Preliminary Engineering Activities by Local Forces
PE activities can be performed in-house by LPA staff. Please see EPG 136.3.12.3 Federal-aid Participation for In-House Services for more details. If the LPA is not requesting reimbursement for the in-house design services, they still must have the plans signed and sealed by a registered professional engineer in the state of Missouri. Keep in mind, however, if the design includes any right of way, temporary easements included, then the LPA must still follow the Uniform Act. Even if no federal dollars are utilized for PE or for right of way, the LPA must still follow the Uniform Act because federal dollars are utilized on at least one phase of the project. For more right of way information see EPG 136.8 Local Public Agency Land Acquisition.
136.4.1.3.3 Construction Engineering/Construction Inspection (CE)
Construction Engineering can be performed by a consultant or can be done as in-house services if the LPA is staffed to do so. If the CE is to be performed in-house please see EPG 136.3.12.3 Federal-aid Participation for In-House Services for more details.
136.4.1.4 Responsible Person in Charge
The LPA is required to have a person of responsible charge for every project. The hired consultant cannot be the person of responsible charge. Please see EPG 136.1 for more information.
136.4.1.5 Consultant Qualification
Effective January 1, 2013, all prime consultants must be prequalified to perform engineering services on any project. To become prequalified the consultant will be required to do the following:
- 1. Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) on file with MoDOT
- 2. Registered to do business in Missouri
- 3. Have current E-Verify MOU and E-Verify Affidavit
- E-Verify MOU – one time submittal
- E-Verify Affidavit - yearly
- 4. Have current Annual Financial Prequalification with MoDOT
- Step-by-step instruction for becoming prequalified and a list of pre-qualified consultants can be found on MoDOT's Consultant Services webpage.
- This annual financial prequalification is good for one year.
- 5. Have taken the Federal Aid Basic Training Course
- This course must be re-taken every 2 years.
- A list of available training courses can be found on the LPA website under Training. For more information, refer to EPG 136.2 Certification and Training. This training course is required to be able to perform work on MoDOT and LPA projects.
- 6. MoDOT Bridge Consultants Only (Not required for LPA Consultants): For consultants who wish to perform bridge design, MoDOT's Bridge Division also requires that the consultant submit a Bridge Experience Profile and a Personal Bridge Experience Record. These forms can be found on MoDOT's Consultant Services webpage under the "Consultant Prequalification Requirements" tab, and must be updated every 3 years. For MoDOT bridge contracts, the consultant must have a QA/QC plan on file with MoDOT but this is NOT a requirement for an LPA bridge project at this time.
The prequalification process complies with AASHTO guidelines published in the Uniform Audit & Accounting Guide, 2010 Edition. This prequalification process ensures that projects are in compliance with state and federal regulations.
The prequalification is only required for prime consultants. Subconsultants are strongly encouraged to become prequalified in order to reduce repetitive paperwork for future projects. For more information on subconsultant requirements see EPG 136.4.2.7.3 Subconsultants.
Not Prequalified. Although the prequalification process is preferred, and will be required for prime consultants after December 31, 2012, consultants who wish to respond to an RFQ who are not prequalified can do so provided that they meet the following requirements:
- Registered to do business in the state of Missouri
- Participate in the Federal Work Authorization Program, E-Verify
- Audited overhead or overhead rate calculation in the required format, (a sample format is available). (Prime Consultants & Subconsultants >$25,000)
- Must be able to submit the Management Representation & Certification Form.
136.4.1.6 Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest occurs when a consultant has a financial or personal interest in a federally funded project. To avoid a potential conflict of interest, see 23 CFR 1.33 for the Federal Law governing Conflict of Interest. To certify that no conflict of interest has taken place on any given project, the LPA and consultant must fill out the Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form (Fig 136.4.15) and submit it to MoDOT along with the executed engineering services contract for each project.
136.4.1.6.1 Using Consultants for Preliminary Project Documents
There are situations when conflicts of interest commonly arise during LPA projects.
136.4.1.6.1.1 Development of Preliminary Project Documents
Preliminary project documents may include, but are not limited to, grant and TIP applications, projects scopes, filling out the programming data form and project estimates.
If the LPA needs professional consulting services to develop preliminary project documents, the LPA must execute an engineering services contract. The contract must be at fair market value, and the cost of selecting and negotiating a consultant contract is not eligible for federal funding.
A consultant providing preliminary project deliverables must complete all preliminary activities and receive payment in full from the LPA in order to be eligible to bid on PE or CE services for the project. If the consultant provides preliminary project documents as an in-house consultant or engineer on retainer, all invoices for these services must be paid in full to be to be considered for a PE or CE contract
The LPA must include all consultant developed preliminary project documents in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). If a consultant develops the RFQ or participates in the consultant selection process, regardless of payment, that firm will not be eligible for the next phase of the project.
136.4.1.6.1.2 Contracts with LPAs and Contractors
A consultant cannot work for both the LPA and the contractor on the same project as this is seen as a conflict of interest. However, the consultant can provide surveying and staking on the project for the contractor but it is limited to that task alone.
136.4.1.7 Suspension/Debarment
All consultants receiving individual awards for $100,000 or more and all subrecipients/subconsultants must certify that the organization and its principles are not suspended or debarred. Each LPA may, but is not required to, check the Nonprocurement List. Copies of the list may be obtained by purchasing a yearly subscription from the Superintendent of Documents, US Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, or by calling the Government Printing Office Inquiry and Order Desk at (202) 783-3238. An electronic version is available, as well. The user will be required to record their name and organization for purposes of the Computer Matching and Privacy Act of 1988.
136.4.1.8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A list of FAQs regarding consultant issues can be found in Fig 136.4.13. FHWA also has a webpage that lists FAQs.
136.4.2 Solicitation & Selection Process
When an LPA needs consultant services, specific processes for soliciting and selecting a consultant must be followed. LPA’s must use Qualifications Based Selection(QBS) for the procurement of engineering and design related services. This is mandated by both the Federal and State law. See EPG 136.4.1.2 and EPG 136.4.1.3 for the applicable laws. If an LPA does not follow the solicitation and selection process, federal funds could be jeopardized.
136.4.2.1 Qualification Based Selection (QBS) Flowchart
A step-by-step process for following the QBS process is outlined below.
136.4.2.2 Step 1 – Scope of Services
The LPA should determine a project specific scope of services. Sample scopes of service can be found on the last sheet of Fig. 136.4.7. These samples can be used in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) form. Keep in mind that the Engineering Services Contract cannot contain any scope that was not listed in the Advertisement/RFQ, so it is important to develop the scope of services for the RFQ that will cover all necessary work items for the project. For instance, if the LPA wishes for the consultant to design the plans and perform construction inspection, the RFQ needs to spell out both of those items, otherwise the LPA will have to post another RFQ to cover the work items not covered in the original RFQ.
In general, the RFQ scopes should be broadly written but the scope of services contained in the Engineering Services Contract should be detailed to cover both the LPA and consultant.
136.4.2.3 Step 2 - Creating an RFQ Document
"How To" PowerPoint Tutorial | |
How to Complete the RFQ and Get it Advertised |
An LPA must create an RFQ to solicit professional services. MoDOT provides a solicitation form, or an LPA may use its own solicitation with prior approval. Fig. 136.4.7 provides a sample solicitation/RFQ form.
If the LPA wishes not to use the sample solicitation they may do so provided that that solicitation contains the following:
- a statement requiring the consultant to submit E-verify Affidavit of Compliance, E-Verify MOU and a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) along with the letter of interest
- a statement saying the DBE firms must be listed in the MRCC directory to be considered
- the selection rating criteria along with the weighted values/points associated with each selection criteria
- DBE goal
- Detailed Scope of Consultant Services needed
- Deadline date when the letters of interest are to be submitted
- Contact information
- A statement indicating where to get a copy of any preliminary project documents, if applicable.
Each RFQ must include a consultant selection criteria with the weighted percentages of each category. RsMO 8.289 lists the criteria that should be used. MoDOT’s sample solicitation includes these criteria, with the exception of proximity/familiarity. This criteria has been eliminated because the criteria is unclear and often misused. An LPA may use alternate criteria with rating values only with prior MoDOT approval. Each RFQ must be submitted to MoDOT and reviewed for a DBE Goal prior to advertisement.
136.4.2.4 Step 3 - Advertising the RFQ Solicitation
Each solicitation must be advertised. MoDOT suggests LPAs use the sample solicitation form from the EPG, however, an LPA may also use an alternative advertising plan with prior MoDOT approval. The RFQ must be advertised at least one time allowing a minimum of 14 calendar days prior to the due date, but it may be advertised multiple times if desired.
In addition, each RFQ must be reviewed by MoDOT’s External Civil Rights group for Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) opportunities. MoDOT will notify the LPA, so that the DBE goal can be inserted into the RFQ. Possible activities that offer opportunities for DBE firms include but are not limited to surveying, plan sheet development, design, geotech services and borings. Only firms listed in the MRCC Directory are eligible to meet DBE goals. If the DBE goal is not met, the the consultant must document that a Good Faith Effort was made to meet the DBE goal.
136.4.2.4.1 Advertising on MoDOT’s Site
The sample RFQ solicitation form (Fig 136.4.7) should be filled out and submitted to the appropriate MoDOT district representative. When advertising on MoDOT's website, the LPA can choose to also advertise in a newspaper, but it is not required.
136.4.2.4.2 Advertising Using an Alternative Method
An LPA does not have to advertise on the MoDOT website, and when an LPA wishes to use another method to advertise the consultant solicitation, the LPA must submit a written request with an advertising plan to MoDOT. This request to advertise using an alternative method must be approved by MoDOT and FHWA prior to advertising the RFQ. The plan must comply with state and federal laws and include:
- Advertisement in a major newspaper of general circulation
- Plan to disseminate information to organizations qualified to do specified work. These organizations may include professional societies and recognized DBE organizations.
136.4.2.5 Step 4 - Response to the RFQ
Interested firms who wish to respond to the RFQ can submit a letter of interest. If the firm has no experience with the LPA process, they must submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ), also. The SOQ can be in the form of a brochure or other format which outlines the qualification of the firm’s employees and recent past experience in similar work. (See Missouri Revised State Statue Chapter 8 Section 8.289.)
Missouri State Statues require that firms include an Affidavit of Compliance and a copy of the E-Verify MOU with each submittal. (See RsMo 285.530 and 15 CSR 60-15.020.)
136.4.2.6 Step 5 - Selection of Consultant
When the RFQ expires, the LPA evaluates the letters of interest or statement of qualifications. The LPA rates all firms based on the criteria that was outlined in the RFQ. Price quotations shall not be requested or used for consideration prior to selecting a firm. Price can only be determined AFTER the consultant is selected.
MoDOT/FHWA can attend the selection/rating meeting and provide guidance on the selection process but cannot give opinions on selection of the firm. RsMO 8.289 (except proximity/familiarity) and Fig. 136.4.2 Consultant Selection Criteria Guidance and Rating Sheet must be used in the rating and selection of the consultant.
According to federal and state law, the LPA must rate a minimum of 3 firms and then select the firm best qualified to perform the work, based on the rating criteria outlined in the RFQ, and not based on price quotations. It is preferred, however, to rate as many firms as necessary (6 to 8 firms) to provide for more competition and quality. It is not necessary for the LPA to interview the firms, but should be considered. When less than three responses are received, it is suggested that the RFQ be re-advertised at least once. If the LPA still receives less than three responses, the LPA must then determine whether or not this is a suitable number of responses based on the nature and size of the project. The LPA should also consider whether there was some aspect of the RFQ that was overly restrictive or otherwise had an adverse impact on the completion of the project. If the LPA still wants to move forward, then they should document that the RFQ requirements were not restrictive, it was adequately publicized and that the one or two firms who responded were capable of performing the tasks outlined for the project.
136.4.2.7 Step 6 - Consultant Contract Negotiations
Price is negotiated after a consultant is selected and notified. This is the only time in the selection process when price can be considered. Fig. 136.4.6 lists a number of common Unallowable Costs that are ineligible federal reimbursement. Additional scope beyond what was advertised in the RFQ cannot be negotiated into the contract.
The selected firm will need to use the overhead rate that was approved by MoDOT in that firms prequalification process with MoDOT. If the firm elects to voluntarily reduce their overhead rate the following language must be incorporated into the contract:
- “The Company has voluntarily reduced its overhead rate to ___%. This rate will be used on all billings. Upon completion of these services outlined under this Agreement the final payment for these items will be based on accounting records of the Consultant incurred during the period of the Agreement. The LPA reserves the right to require the actual audited overhead rates be used if those rates are less than the voluntarily reduced rate noted previously.”
136.4.2.7.1 Fixed Fee Review
The fixed fee is based on the complexity of the project, risk to the consultant, and the amount of sub consultant management and is the profit to the consultant. Fixed fees are calculations are based upon direct salary costs. The percentage of the fixed fee to the direct salary costs should not exceed the MoDOT maximum allowable profit curve shown in Fig 136.4.3. However, MoDOT does not allow a profit of more than 15 percent.
Fixed fees may not be calculated for direct expenses. Sub consultants are a direct expense to the prime consultant. Therefore, sub consultant expenses may not be included in the fixed fee calculations for the prime consultant. It should be noted that the “fixed fee” is fixed and will be paid in full even if the consultant does not use all of the hours in the contract. Care should be taken not to overestimate man-hours.
136.4.2.7.2 Basis of Payment
The Engineering Services Contract in the EPG Fig 136.4.1 is an actual cost contract. This means that all cost estimates must be based on actual wages and overhead. Federal Regulations (FAR Part 16.102) prohibit the use of cost plus a percentage of cost or percentage of construction costs as a method of compensation. The following methods maybe used as the basis of payment in a contract:
- Actual Cost Plus Fixed Fee
- Specific rates of pay (for emergency situations only)
Each subconsultant must be identified in the contract. Subconsultant expenses should be calculated based upon actual costs. Prompt payment of subconsultants is required per FAR Subpart 32.9.
Retainage is not allowed as a routine part of the contract i.e. blanket retainage is prohibited. Payment may be withheld on any particular work item that has not been completed in accordance with the contract. This can include work incidental to the work item, and required documentation directly related to the work.
Direct costs must be estimated using current Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) mileage reimbursement rates and per diem rates for Missouri. These rates can be found on the following web pages.
Mileage, subsistence and lodging must follow federal travel regulation guidelines.
136.4.2.7.3 Subconsultants
The use of subconsultants is allowed provided that each firm is identified in the engineering services contract. DBE firms should be listed under Article II, and other sub consultants should be listed in Article IX Subletting, Assignment or Transfer. The use of 2nd and 3rd Tier subconsultants is not allowed. Subconsultants do not have to be prequalified but it is strongly encouraged especially if the subconsutlants routinely performs work >$25,000.
136.4.2.7.3.1 Subconsultant cost exceeding $25,000
If the consultant is using a subconsultant with a cost exceeding $25,000, then the subconsultant shall include Attachments B and C of Fig 136.4.1, a detailed estimate of cost and an overhead rate breakdown. Fig. 136.4.6 lists common unallowable costs.
If the subconsultant is not prequalified with MoDOT, then the firm shall also include their Management Representation and Certification Form. Each subconsultant in this category must show its overhead in the required format. Fig. 136.4.16 provides an example Overhead Schedule. The prime consultant is responsible for ensuring that all subconsultants comply with state and federal regulations, such as E-Verify, and are registered to do business in Missouri.
136.4.2.7.3.2 Subconsultant cost NOT exceeding $25,000
If the consultant is using a subconsultant with a cost that DOES NOT exceed $25,000 then a letter quote from the subconsultant shall be submitted with the engineering service contract. The letter should quote the subconsultant’s cost shown in Attachment B of the contract (Fig 136.4.1).
136.4.2.7.4 Ceasing Negotiation
If the LPA cannot negotiate a reasonable price with the consultant selected, the LPA can cease negotiations and begin negotiations with the next most qualified firm. After the LPA has ceased negotiations with the selected firm and have started negotiations with the next most qualified firm, the LPA cannot go back to the first firm and start another round of negotiations; this is looked upon as price shopping and is unallowable. See FHWA Consultant Services webpage for more information.
136.4.2.8 Step 7 - Consultant Contract Submittal to MoDOT
The contract format illustrated in Fig. 136.4.1 is required, unless the LPA gets prior approval from MoDOT to deviate from this contract form. The LPA must submit the contract to MoDOT for review and approval along with the cover letter found in Fig. 136.4.9. For a complete list of items required to be submitted along with the consultant contract, see Fig. 136.4.11. Also see Fig. 136.4.14 to view a checklist that MoDOT will use when reviewing the consultant contract. The LPA should also use this checklist prior to submitting to MoDOT to ensure the contract is complete.
136.4.2.9 MoDOT Review of Consultant Contract
Each consultant contract will be reviewed by MoDOT staff for reasonableness in man-hours, overhead etc. See Fig. 136.4.14 for a checklist for reviewing a consultant contract. MoDOT’s Audits and Investigations Division must review any contract with costs exceeding $100,000. After the review is complete, the division will send a letter to the district representative that will list any items that need to be corrected prior to contract execution. Those items include, but are not limited to, math errors, contract language and costs do not match exhibits, exclusion of an audit clause, overhead rates are different than information MoDOT has on file. No work shall begin until the PE funds have been obligated by FHWA and MoDOT has given the LPA notice to proceed. Any funds spent prior to PE Obligation will not be reimbursable.
136.4.2.10 PE Funding Obligation
After MoDOT has reviewed the consultant contract and has found it to be reasonable, MoDOT will request authorization of funds from FHWA for Preliminary Engineering (PE), when these expenses are allowable. FHWA will obligate the funds and MoDOT will notify the LPA that the funds have been obligated and give the notice to proceed. No work shall begin until the PE funds have been obligated by FHWA and MoDOT has given the LPA notice to proceed. Any funds spent prior to PE Obligation will not be reimbursable.
136.4.2.11 CE Funding Obligation
Some consultant contracts contain both preliminary engineering work (PE) and construction engineering/inspection (CE) work. If this is the case, the PE dollars will be obligated first, then all PE work will need to be finished prior to the CE dollars being obligated. No PE funds can be incurred after the CE funds have been obligated.
Other consultant contracts may only contain CE work. If this is case, CE funds will be obligated with the construction dollars. This obligation takes place after the plans and all supporting documents have been reviewed and approved and Authority to Advertise has been given to the LPA. No work shall begin until the CE funds have been obligated by FHWA and MoDOT has given the LPA notice to proceed. Any funds spent prior to CE Obligation will not be reimbursable.
In either case, the consultant contract must be executed and then approved by MoDOT prior to requesting CE funding obligation.
136.4.3 Consultant Contract Management
136.4.3.1 Payments/Invoicing
The LPA must submit invoices for reimbursement of costs incurred as the work progresses. The invoices may not be submitted more than once every two weeks. Progress invoices must be submitted monthly for invoices equal to or greater than $10,000. The final invoice must be submitted within 30 days of final acceptance. The LPA may use either of the following two methods of seeking progress payments:
- The LPA pays the contractor/consultant for work performed and then submits a progress invoice for reimbursement.
- The LPA prepares the pay estimate for work performed and monies due to the contractor/consultant and submits the invoice to MoDOT. If the LPA adopts this method, it must develop cash management procedures to ensure payment is made to the contractor/consultant within two (2) business days of receipt of funds from MoDOT. Failure to disburse the funds promptly will result in a violation of federal cash management provisions and may result in an interest penalty assessment against the funds.
Whichever method above is used, the state will expedite reimbursement to the LPA. It is estimated that the average length of time from invoice submittal to receipt of federal reimbursement will be about 20 working days.
LPAs cannot withhold or make payments to a contractor or consultant contingent upon reimbursement of progress invoices. Refer to EGP 136.3.15.1 for more information.
Reimbursement will not be made for any work complete outside of the period of service as defined in the consultant contract.
Invoice Detail. The invoice template found in Fig. 136.4.10 MUST be used for prime consultant invoices. Sub-consultants who have a contract with the prime that is greater than $25,000 must either use Fig. 136.4.10 or provide all the information that is listed in this figure to be considered acceptable. Each invoice must be submitted with the necessary supporting documentation and must be numbered in sequential order and label the final invoice as FINAL. An example invoice can be found in Fig. 136.4.17. This invoice shows example information to help customers fill out the document.
The invoice shall be based on the total incurred cost during the invoice period, minus any no non-participating costs incurred. Invoices should identify each task in the scope of work, as well as the employees and hours spent on each task during the invoice period. Direct costs should also be shown by task.
Each invoice MUST show the total DBE payments for each DBE subcontractor, the total for that particular invoice and the DBE% met to date, if applicable.
Fig. 136.4.18 provides a checklist to aid in filling out the invoice. The checklist includes all items that are necessary to be on the invoice or submitted as supporting documentation in order for the invoice to be accepted and paid.
136.4.3.2 Supplemental Agreements
Supplemental agreements, as shown in Fig. 136.4.4, are to be used to add/delete work within the scope of services that was advertised in the RFQ. Supplemental agreements cannot be used to increase scope outside the RFQ or to increase overhead or fixed fee. For example, a no cost supplemental agreement can be executed to extend the period of service as outlined in the original consultant contract.
The LPA or consultant will develop the supplemental agreement. Each supplemental must include new subconsultants, changes to the scope of services, new cost estimates and schedule or period of service adjustments as applicable. If a DBE goal was established in the original contract it will continue to apply. Separate DBE goals for supplemental agreements are not calculated.
The supplemental agreement must be executed and submitted to MoDOT for approval.
The LPA can get a verbal acceptance from MoDOT to start the changed/additional work before the paperwork is finished and the additional funds are obligated, but no invoice reflecting the new monies shall be submitted until the additional funds are obligated, and the risk will be on the LPA if they proceed without obligation. In other words, if the supplemental agreement is denied by MoDOT/FHWA then the LPA will be responsible for funding the work associated with the supplemental, if work began prior to obligating the funds.
136.4.3.3 Consultant Performance Appraisals
The LPA, the consultant and MoDOT should review and rate the consultant’s performance. All parties should agree upon the final ratings. These final ratings can be used as backup documentation for future consultant selection ratings. The consultant performance appraisal form can be found in Fig. 136.4.5. The evaluation must contain written comments on how the evaluation was determined. All evaluation comments must be factual and not based upon personal opinion, i.e. all comments must be able to be backed up by actual facts.
136.4.4 Key Submittals/Requirements
Task/Submittal | LPA Responsibility | MoDOT Responsibility | MoDOT Timeframe |
---|---|---|---|
RFQ/Advertisement | Develop & Submit to MoDOT | Review/Provide DBE Goal | RFQ to be posted for 14 days minimum |
Selection of Consultant | Rate each consultant based on criteria in the RFQ. | Attend rating/selection meeting but cannot give opinions on selection | Selection to occur after the 14 day advertisement period lapses. |
Contract Negotiation | Negotiate with consultant | n/a | n/a |
Contract Submittal | Submit to MoDOT along with filled out checklist | Review and send to FHWA for PE obligation | - |
Supplemental Agreement | Prepare and submit to MoDOT | Review and send to FHWA for obligation | - |
Performance Appraisal of Consultant | LPA/Consultant to attend final appraisal meeting | MoDOT to attend final appraisal meeting | - |