Project Officers for Disaster Assistance Program Support and Closeout

Background
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management (NCEM) is seeking proposals from qualified contractors to provide trained and experienced Project Officers. These officers will assist with both the Public Assistance and Individual Assistance programs, particularly in closing out current disasters and implementing programs for newly declared disasters. NCEM administers state and federal emergency management programs under the Federal Stafford Act and Chapter 166A of the North Carolina General Statutes, focusing on disaster response and recovery.

Work Details
The Vendor shall provide a well-trained staff to work with NCEM representatives, including:

1. **Pre-Declaration:** Educate applicants on the Federal Public Assistance Program, perform preliminary damage assessments with FEMA, and assist in creating Standard Operating Guidelines.

2. **Training:** Prepare local governments for assessments, train state staff on damage assessments and FEMA models, conduct training for project close-outs, hazard mitigation opportunities, disaster case management, and survivor sensitivity.

3. **Recovery Operation:** Conduct applicant briefings, assist with Request for Public Assistance submissions, provide eligibility guidance, prepare scopes of work for small and large projects, advocate for applicants regarding misunderstandings or problems with eligibility or funding.

4. **Reporting and Closeouts:** Validate completion of projects, perform inspections, assist in appeals to FEMA, provide technical assistance for project tracking and reporting.

5. **Financial Services:** Process disaster-related financial assistance applications and payments according to North Carolina policy.

Period of Performance
The contract will have an initial term of three (3) years starting from the date of final contract execution.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed within the State of North Carolina.

Bidder Requirements
Vendors must be registered in good standing with the North Carolina Secretary of State prior to entering into a contract. They must also comply with requirements related to financial stability, HUB participation (10% utilization of diverse firms), background checks for personnel performing services under the contract, and must complete various attachments including cost proposals and certifications.