DHS awards $11.5M for Security Guards, facing potential risks despite full competition

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $11,490,930 ($11.5M)

Contractor: THE GEO Group, Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security

Start Date: 2003-04-15

End Date: 2004-03-15

Contract Duration: 335 days

Daily Burn Rate: $34.3K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Place of Performance

Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20202

State: District of Columbia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Homeland Security obligated $11.5 million to THE GEO GROUP, INC. for work described as: Key points: 1. Spending of $11.5M on security guards indicates a significant investment in physical security. 2. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a potentially competitive bidding process. 3. The contract duration of 335 days is standard for such services. 4. The award amount of $343,010 is a key data point for benchmarking.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The award of $11,490,930 for security guard services appears to be within a reasonable range for a large-scale contract of this nature. Benchmarking against similar contracts for federal security services would provide a clearer picture of its value.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, which generally promotes price discovery and allows for a wide range of potential contractors to bid. This method is intended to secure the best value for the government.

Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition aims to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently by fostering a competitive environment that drives down costs.

Public Impact

Ensures security for critical government facilities and personnel. Supports the operational needs of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Provides employment opportunities within the security services sector.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for service quality variations among bidders.
Reliance on external contractors for critical security functions.
Geographic concentration in Washington D.C. may limit local competition.

Positive Signals

Utilized full and open competition.
Clear contract end date.
Fixed price contract type limits cost overruns.

Sector Analysis

Security guard services are a common procurement for federal agencies, particularly those with physical assets and personnel to protect. Spending benchmarks vary widely based on location, service level, and duration.

Small Business Impact

While the contract was awarded under full and open competition, there is no specific indication of set-asides for small businesses. Larger contracts like this often favor established, larger security firms.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract's oversight would fall under the purview of the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Standard contract management practices should be in place to ensure performance and compliance.

Related Government Programs

Security Guards and Patrol Services
Department of Homeland Security Contracting
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for service disruption if contractor fails.
Dependence on external vendor for critical security.
Limited visibility into specific service level agreements.
Geographic concentration may limit competitive landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Homeland Security awarded $11.5 million to THE GEO GROUP, INC.. See the official description on USAspending.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is THE GEO GROUP, INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $11.5 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2003-04-15. End: 2004-03-15.

What specific security services are included in this contract, and how do they align with ICE's mission requirements?

The contract is for 'Security Guards and Patrol Services.' This typically includes personnel for access control, surveillance, patrolling facilities, and responding to security incidents. For ICE, these services are crucial for maintaining the security of detention facilities, ports of entry, and administrative buildings, directly supporting their mission of border security and immigration enforcement.

What are the potential risks associated with relying on a single contract for security guards in a specific geographic area like Washington D.C.?

Relying on a single contract in a specific area can pose risks such as vendor lock-in, reduced flexibility if needs change, and potential price increases upon renewal. If the primary contractor faces labor disputes, staffing shortages, or performance issues, it could significantly disrupt critical security operations for ICE in the D.C. area.

How effectively does the 'full and open competition' method ensure optimal value and performance for these security guard services?

Full and open competition is designed to maximize value by encouraging multiple bids, theoretically leading to lower prices and better service offerings. However, its effectiveness depends on the clarity of the solicitation, the number and quality of bidders, and robust evaluation criteria. For security guards, ensuring the chosen vendor meets stringent performance standards and reliability is as crucial as the price.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Investigation and Security Services › Security Guards and Patrol Services

Product/Service Code: UTILITIES AND HOUSEKEEPING › HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Contractor Details

Address: 4200 WACKENHUT DR # 100, PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL, 33410

Business Categories: Category Business, Not Designated a Small Business

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Timeline