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HomeMy WebLinkAboutContract 58717CSC No. 58717 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) Awarding Federal Agency: United States Department of Health and Human Services TDHCA Federal Award Number: 2301TXLIEA Award Year (Year of Award from HHS to TDHCA): 2023 Unique Entity Identifier Number: FXG4SWSNZKT9 SECTION 1. PARTIES TO THE CONTRACT This 2023 Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) Contract Number 58230003822 ("Contract") is made by and between the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, a public and official agency of the State of Texas ("Department"), and City of Fort Worth, a political subdivision of the State of Texas ("Subrecipient"), hereinafter the "Parties". SECTION 2. CONTRACT TERM This Contract shall commence on January 01, 2023, and, unless earlier terminated, shall end on December 31, 2023 ("Contract Term"). SECTION 3. SUBRECIPIENT PERFORMANCE AND SERVICE AREA A. The following County/Counties constitute Subrecipient's "Service Area": TARRANT B. Subrecipient shall, throughout its Service Area operate a Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program ("CEAP") in accordance with the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-452), the Low -Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 as amended (42 U.S.C. §8621 et seq.) (Title XXVI of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, Public Law 97-35, as amended) ("LIHEAP Act"), Chapter 2105 of the Texas Government Code ("State Act"), Chapters 2105 and 2306 of the Texas Government Code ("State Act"), the implementing State regulations under Title 10, Part 1, Chapter 1, Chapter 2 and Subchapters A and C of Chapter 6 of the Texas Administrative Code, as amended or supplemented from time to time (collectively, "State Rules"), the LIHEAP State Plan, 2 CFR Part 200 (as applicable), Subrecipient's "Service Delivery Plan" in accordance with 10 TAC §6.306, the Department's guidance related to CEAP, all applicable state and federal regulations, and the terms of this Contract. Subrecipient further agrees to comply with the certifications attached hereto as Addendums A, B, C and D and incorporated herein for all relevant purposes; the Budget attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein for all relevant purposes; the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 ("PRWORA") Requirements for the CEAP attached hereto as Addendum E and incorporated herein for all relevant purposes; the assurances, certifications, and all other statements made by Subrecipient in its application funding under this Contract; and with all other terms, provisions, and requirements herein set forth. C. Subrecipient shall assist "Households" that are "Low -Income" with priority being given in no particular order to "Elderly Persons", "Person with a Disability", "Households" with a young child five (5) years of age or under, Households with "High Energy Burden", and Households with "High Energy Consumption," as said terms are defined in 10 TAC §6.2. OFFICIAL RECORD CITY SECRETARY FT. WORTH, TX Page 1 of 33 SECTION 4. DEPARTMENT FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS A. In consideration of Subrecipient's satisfactory performance of this Contract, Department shall reimburse Subrecipient for the actual allowable costs incurred by Subrecipient during the Contract Term for administrative expenditures and program services costs and direct services expenditures in accordance with 10 TAC §6.308, in the amount(s) specified in the Budget attached hereto as Fvhihit A B. Any decision to obligate additional funds or deobligate funds shall be made in writing by Department in its sole but reasonable discretion based upon factors including, but not limited to, the status of funding under grants to Department, the rate of Subrecipient's utilization of funds under this or previous contracts, the existence of questioned or disallowed costs under this or other contracts between the Parties, and Subrecipient's overall compliance with the terms of this Contract. C. Subrecipient understands that all obligations of the Department under the Contract are subject to the availability of grant funds. The Contract is subject to termination or cancellation, either in whole or in part, without penalty to Department if such funds become unavailable. D. The Contract shall not be construed as creating a debt on behalf of Department in violation of Article III, Section 49a of the Texas Constitution. Subrecipient understands that all obligations of the Department under this Contract are subject to the availability of 2023 funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ("HHS"). If sufficient funds are not available to make payments under this Contract, Department shall notify Subrecipient in writing within a reasonable time after such fact is determined. Department shall then terminate this Contract and will not be liable for the failure to make any payment to Subrecipient under this Contract. Department acknowledges that it has received obligations from those sources which, if paid, will be sufficient to pay the allowable costs incurred by Subrecipient under this Contract. E. Department is not liable for any cost incurred by Subrecipient which: 1. is subject to reimbursement by a source other than Department; 2. is for performance of services or activities not authorized by the LIHEAP Act, State Rules, or which is not in accordance with the terms of this Contract; 3. is not incurred during the Contract Term; 4. is not reported to Department on a monthly expenditure or performance report within forty- five (45) calendar days following the end of the Contract Term; or 5. is incurred for the purchase or permanent improvement of real property. F. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Contract to the contrary, Department shall only be liable to Subrecipient for allowable costs actually incurred or performances rendered for activities specified in the LIHEAP Act. G. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Contract, the total of all payments and other obligations incurred by Department under this Contract shall not exceed the sum of $6,486,961.00. SECTION 5. METHOD OF PAYMENT/CASH BALANCES A. REQUEST FOR ADVANCE. Subrecipient may request an advance for up to thirty (30) days. Subrecipient's request for cash advance shall be limited to the minimum amount needed and be timed to be in accordance with the actual, immediate cash requirements of the Subrecipient or an advance of Five Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($5,000.00), whichever is greater. In carrying out the purpose of this Contract. Subrecipient must request an advance payment by submitting a properly completed monthly expenditure and performance report to Department through the electronic reporting system no later than the fifteenth (15th) day of the month prior to the month for which advance payment is sought, together with such supporting documentation as the Department may reasonably request. Page 2 of 33 B. DISBURSEMENT PROCEDURES. Subrecipient shall establish procedures to minimize the time between the disbursement of funds from Department to Subrecipient and the expenditure of such funds by Subrecipient. C. DEPARTMENT OBLIGATIONS. Subsection 5(A) of this Contract notwithstanding, Department reserves the right to utilize a modified cost reimbursement method of payment, whereby reimbursement of costs incurred by a Subrecipient is made only after the Department has reviewed and approved backup documentation provided by the Subrecipient to support such costs for all funds, if at any time (1) Subrecipient maintains cash balances in excess of need or requests advance payments in excess of thirty (30) days need, (2) Department identifies any deficiency in the cash controls or financial management system used by Subrecipient, (3) Subrecipient owes the Department funds, or (4) Subrecipient violates any of the terms of this Contract. D. ALLOWABLE EXPENSES. All funds paid to Subrecipient pursuant to this Contract are for the payment of allowable expenditures to be used for the exclusive benefit of the Low -Income population of Subrecipient's Service Area incurred during the Contract Term. Subrecipient may incur costs for activities associated with the closeout of the CEAP contract for a period not to exceed forty-five (45) calendar days from the end of the Contract Term. E. REPAYMENT. Subrecipient shall repay, within fifteen (15) calendar days of the Department's request, any sum of money paid to Subrecipient which Department determines has resulted in an overpayment or has not been spent in accordance with the terms of this Contract. SECTION 6. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS, COST PRINCIPLES AND AUDIT REQUIREMENTS A. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS AND COST PRINCIPLES. Except as expressly modified by law or the terms of this Contract, Subrecipient shall comply with the cost principles and uniform administrative requirements set forth in the Texas Grant Management Standards () ("TXGMS") in effect on the effective date of this Contract. All references therein to "local government" shall be construed to mean Subrecipient. B. INDIRECT COST RATE. Subrecipient has an approved indirect cost rate of 0.00%. C. AUDIT REQUIREMENTS. Audit requirements are set forth in the Texas Single Audit Act and Subpart F of 2 CFR Part 200. The expenditure threshold requiring an audit is Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($750,000.00) of Federal funds. D. AUDIT REVIEW. Department reserves the right to conduct additional audits of the funds received and performances rendered under this Contract. Subrecipient agrees to permit Department or its authorized representative to audit Subrecipient's records and to obtain any documents, materials, or information necessary to facilitate such audit. E. CERTIFICATION FORM. For any fiscal year ending within or one year after the Contract Term, Subrecipient must submit an "Audit Certification Form" (available from the Department) within sixty (60) days after the Subrecipient's fiscal year end. If the Subrecipient's Single Audit is required by 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart F, the report must be submitted to the Federal Audit Clearinghouse ("FAC") the earlier of thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of the auditor's report or nine (9) months after the end of its respective fiscal year. As noted in 10 TAC §1.403(f), Subrecipient is required to submit a notification to Department within five (5) business days of submission to the FAC. Along with the notice, indicate if the auditor issued a management letter. If there is a management letter, a copy of the letter must be sent to the Department. Both the notice and the copy of the management letter, if applicable, must be submitted by electronic mail to SAandACF@tdhca.state.tx.us. Page 3 of 33 F. STATE AUDITOR'S RIGHT TO AUDIT. Pursuant to Section 2262.154 of the Texas Government Code, the state auditor may conduct an audit or investigation of any entity receiving funds from the state directly under any contract or indirectly through a subcontract under the Contract. The acceptance of funds by the Subrecipient or any other entity or person directly under the Contract or indirectly through a subcontract under the Contract acts as acceptance of the authority of the state auditor, under the direction of the legislative audit committee, to conduct an audit or investigation in connection with those funds. Under the direction of the legislative audit committee, the Subrecipient or other entity that is the subject of an audit or investigation by the state auditor must provide the state auditor with access to any information the state auditor considers relevant to the investigation or audit. Subrecipient shall ensure that this paragraph concerning the authority to audit funds received indirectly by subcontractors through the contract and the requirement to cooperate is included in any subcontract it awards. G. SUBCONTRACTS. The Subrecipient shall include language in any subcontract that provides the Department the ability to directly review, monitor, and/or audit the operational and financial performance and/or records of work performed under this Contract. SECTION 7. DEOBLIGATION, TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION A. DEOBLIGATION. The Department may deobligate funds from Subrecipient in accordance with 10 TAC §1.411, 10 TAC §6.304, and Chapter 2105 of the Texas Government Code. The Department may also deobligate funds from this Contract in whole or in part if Subrecipient missing any of the expenditure deadlines listed in the Performance Statement attached as Exhibit B to this Contract. B. TERMINATION. Pursuant to 10 TAC §§2.202 and 2.203, the Department may terminate this Contract, in whole or in part, at any time Department determines that there is cause for termination. Cause for termination includes, but is not limited to, Subrecipient's failure to comply with any term of this Contract or reasonable belief that Subrecipient cannot or will not comply with the requirements of the Contract. C. GENERAL. Subrecipient's failure to expend the funds provided under this Contract in a timely manner may result in either the termination of this Contract or Subrecipient's ineligibility to receive additional funding under CEAP, or a reduction in the original allocation of funds to Subrecipient. D. SUSPENSION. Nothing in this Section 7 shall be construed to limit Department's authority to withhold payment and immediately suspend this Contract if Department identifies possible instances of fraud, abuse, waste, fiscal mismanagement, or other deficiencies in Subrecipient's performance including but not limited to, Subrecipient's failure to correct any monitoring findings on this or any state contract or on a single audit review. E. WITHHOLDING OF PAYMENTS. Notwithstanding any exercise by Department of its right of deobligation, termination or suspension, Subrecipient shall not be relieved of any liability to Department for damages by virtue of any breach of this Contract by Subrecipient. Department may withhold any payment due to Subrecipient until such time as the exact amount of damages due to Department is agreed upon or is otherwise determined in writing between the Parties. F. LIABILITY. Department shall not be liable for any costs incurred by Subrecipient after termination or during suspension of this Contract, or for anv costs that are disallowed. G. STATEWIDE OR REGIONAL PROVIDER. Department may award deobligated or terminated funds from this Contract to a Statewide or Regional Provider in accordance with 10 TAC §1.411. Subrecipient agrees to provide information as requested by the Department to serve clients in the Service Area. Page 4 of 33 SECTION 8. ALLOWABLE EXPENDITURES A. The allowability of Subrecipient's costs incurred in the performance of this Contract shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of Section 4 of this Contract and the regulations set forth in the LIHEAP Act and the State Rules, subject to the limitations and exceptions set forth in this Section 8. B. CEAP grant funds allow up to 7.22% of the award amount to be utilized for administrative costs. Administrative costs incurred by Subrecipient in performing this Contract are to be based on actual programmatic expenditures and shall be allowed up to the amount outlined in the Budget attached hereto as Exhibit A. Eligible administrative costs include costs related to staff performance of management, accounting and reporting activities in accordance with the LIHEAP State Plan. C. Administrative and program services activities funds are earned through provision of direct services to clients in accordance with the State Rules. Subrecipient may choose to submit a final budget revision no later than forty-five (45) calendar days prior to the end of the Contract Term to use it's administrative and program services funds for direct service categories. SECTION 9. RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS A. GENERAL. Subrecipient shall comply with all the record keeping requirements set forth below and shall maintain fiscal and programmatic records and supporting documentation for all expenditures of funds made under this Contract in accordance with the TXGMS, Subrecipient agrees to comply with any changes to the TXGMS record keeping requirements. For purposes of compliance monitoring, all associated documentation must be readily available, whether stored electronically or hard copy to demonstrate compliance with Subrecipient Performance as outlined in Section 3. B. OPEN RECORDS. Subrecipient acknowledges that all information collected, assembled, or maintained by Subrecipient pertaining to this Contract, except records made confidential by law, is subject to the Texas Public Information Act (Chapter 552 of Texas Government Code) and must provide citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties with reasonable access to all records pertaining to this Contract subject to and in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act. Subrecipient understands that the Department will comply with the Texas Public Information Act (Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code) as interpreted by judicial rulings and opinions of the Attorney General of the State of Texas. Information, documentation, and other material in connection with this Contract may be subject to public disclosure pursuant to Chapter 553 of the Texas Government Code (the "Texas Public Information Act"). In accordance with Section 2252.907 of the Texas Government Code, Subrecipient is required to make any information created or exchanged with the State pursuant to the Contract, and not otherwise excepted from disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act, available in a format that is accessible by the public at no additional charge to the State. C. ACCESS TO RECORDS. Subrecipient shall give the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. General Accounting Office, the Texas Comptroller, the Office of Inspector General, the State Auditor's Office, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, and Department, or any of their duly authorized representatives, access to and the right to examine and copy, on or off the premises of Subrecipient, all records pertaining to this Contract. Such right to access shall continue as long as the records are retained by Subrecipient. Subrecipient agrees to cooperate with any examination conducted pursuant to this Subsection C. Page 5 of 33 D. RECORD RETENTION. Subrecipient represents and warrants its compliance with the records retention requirements of 2 CFR § 200.333. The Department reserves the right to direct a Subrecipient to retain documents for a longer period of time or transfer certain records to the Department custody when it is determined the records possess longer term retention value. Subrecipient must include the substance of this clause in all subcontracts. Subrecipient agrees to maintain such records in an accessible location for the greater of: (i) the time period described in the TXGMS; (ii) the date that the final audit is accepted with all audit issues resolved to the Department's satisfaction if the Department notifies the Subrecipient in writing; (iii) if any litigation claim, negotiation, inspection, or other action has started before the expiration of the required retention period records must be retained until completion of the action and resolution of all issues which arise under it; or (iv) a date consistent with any other period required by the performed activity reflected in federal or state law or regulation. Upon termination of this Contract, all records are property of the Department. E. CLIENT FILES. Subrecipient shall maintain a client file system to document direct services rendered. Subrecipient shall maintain complete client files at all times. Costs associated with incomplete files found at the time of program monitoring may be disallowed. Each client file shall contain the following: 1. Client application containing all Department requirements; 2. Documentation/verification of client income for the thirty (30) days preceding their application for all Household members eighteen (18) years and older, or Declaration of Income Statement ("DIS") (if applicable). In order to use the DIS form, each Subrecipient shall develop and implement a written policy and procedure on the use of the form; 3. Copy of client's utility bill(s); 4. Energy consumption history for previous twelve (12) months (all fuel types) or Department approved Alternative Billing Method; 5. Documentation of payment (Documentation of payment may be maintained in a separate file, but must be accessible to the Department.); 6. Documentation of benefits determination; 7. Notice of Denial Form (if applicable); 8. Right of appeal and procedures for denial or termination of services (if applicable); 9. Any documentation required by directives provided by the Department; 10. Priority rating form; 11. Case notes sufficient to document that program service activity has occurred; 12. Household Status Verification Form for all Household members; and 13. SAVE printout (if applicable). F. SUBCONTRACTS. Subrecipient shall include the substance of the Section 9 in all subcontracts. SECTION 10. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS A. REPORTING COMPLIANCE. Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will submit timely, complete, and accurate reports in accordance with the grant and maintain appropriate backup documentation to support the reports. B. FUNDING REPORT. By the fifteenth (15th) of each month, Subrecipient shall electronically submit to Department, a Funding Report of all expenditures of funds and clients served under this Contract during the previous month. These reports are due even if Subrecipient has no new activity to report during the month. Page 6 of 33 C. INVENTORY. In accordance with 10 TAC §1.407, Subrecipient shall submit to Department, no later than forty-five (45) calendar days after the end of the Contract Term, an inventory of all vehicles, tools, and equipment with a unit acquisition cost of Five Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($5,000.00) and/or a useful life of more than one (1) year, if purchased in whole or in part with funds received under this Contract or previous CEAP contracts. The inventory shall include the vehicles, tools, equipment, and appliances purchased with Energy Crisis funds on hand as of the last day of the Contract Term. Subrecipient acknowledges that all equipment and supplies purchased with funds from the CEAP are the property of CEAP and as such, stay with the Subrecipient that provides CEAP services in the Service Area. D. FINAL REPORTS. Subrecipient shall electronically submit to Department, no later than forty-five (45) calendar days after the end of the Contract Term, a final report of all expenditures of funds and clients served under this Contract. Failure of Subrecipient to provide a full accounting of funds expended under this Contract may result in the termination of this Contract and ineligibility to receive additional funds. If Subrecipient fails to submit a final expenditure/performance report within forty-five (45) calendar days of the end of the Contract Term, Department will use the last report submitted by Subrecipient as the final report. E. HOUSEHOLD DATA. By the fifteenth (15th) of each month, Subrecipient shall electronically upload data on Households served in the previous month into the CA Performance Measures Module located in the Community Affairs Contract System. F. DEFAULT. If Subrecipient fails to submit within forty-five (45) calendar days of its due date, any report or response required by this Contract, including responses to monitoring reports, Department may, in its sole discretion, deobligate, withhold, or suspend any or all payments otherwise due or requested by Subrecipient hereunder, and/or initiate proceedings to terminate this Contract in accordance with Section 7 of this Contract. G. UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER NUMBER. Subrecipient shall register in the System of Award Management ("SAM") a Unique Entity Identifier ("UEI") number on all contracts and agreements. The UEI number must be submitted from a document retrieved from the https://www.sam.gov website. These documents must be provided to the Department prior to the processing first payment to Subrecipient. Subrecipient shall maintain a current UEI number for the entire Contract Term. H. DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN. Upon request of the Department, Subrecipient shall provide copies of its most recent business continuity and disaster recovery plans. SECTION 11. VENDOR AGREEMENTS For each of Subrecipient's vendors, Subrecipient shall implement and maintain a vendor agreement that contains assurances relating to fair billing practices, delivery procedures, and pricing procedures for business transactions involving CEAP clients. All vendor agreements are subject to monitoring procedures performed by TDHCA. All vendor agreements must be renegotiated at least every two (2) years. SECTION 12. CHANGES AND AMENDMENTS A. AMENDMENTS AND CHANGES REQUIRED BY LAW. Any change, addition or deletion to the terms of this Contract required by a change in federal or state law or regulation is automatically incorporated herein and is effective on the date designated by such law or regulation without the requirement of a written amendment hereto. Said changes, additions, or deletions referenced under this Section 12 may be further evidenced in a written amendment. Page 7 of 33 B. GENERAL. Except as specifically provided otherwise in this Contract, any changes, additions, or deletions to the terms of this Contract shall be in writing and executed by both Parties to this Contract. C. FACSIMILE SIGNATURES. If any Party returns an executed copy by facsimile machine or electronic transmission, the signing party intends the copy of its authorized signature printed by the receiving machine or the electronic transmission, to be its original signature. D. REQUEST. Written requests for a Contract amendment must be received by the Department by no later than forty-five (45) days prior to the end of the Contract Term. SECTION 13. PROGRAM INCOME Subrecipient shall account for and expend program income derived from activities financed in whole or in part with funds provided under this Contract in accordance with the TXGMS. SECTION 14. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND MONITORING Department may issue technical guidance to explain the rules and provide directions on terms of this Contract. Department or its designee may conduct on and off -site monitoring and evaluation of Subrecipient's compliance with the terms of this Contract. Department's monitoring may include a review of the efficiency, economy, and efficacy of Subrecipient's performance. Department will notify Subrecipient in writing of any deficiencies noted during such monitoring. Department may provide training and technical assistance to Subrecipient in correcting the deficiencies noted. Department may require corrective action to remedy deficiencies noted in Subrecipient's accounting, personnel, procurement, and management procedures and systems in order to comply with State or Federal requirements. Department may conduct follow-up visits to review the previously noted deficiencies and to assess the Subrecipient's efforts made to correct them. Repeated deficiencies may result in disallowed costs. Department may terminate or suspend this Contract or invoke other remedies Department determines to be appropriate in the event monitoring reveals material deficiencies in Subrecipient's performance, or Subrecipient fails to correct any deficiency within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Department. Department or its designee may conduct an ongoing program evaluation throughout the Contract Term. Department may issue such corrective actions in accordance with 10 TAC §2.203. SECTION 15. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR Subrecipient is an independent contractor. Subrecipient agrees to hold Department harmless and, to the extent allowed by law, indemnify it against any disallowed costs or other claims which may be asserted by any third party in connection with Subrecipient's performance of this Contract. The Department acknowledges governmental entities cannot create an unfunded debt pursuant to the Texas Constitution. SECTION 16. PROCUREMENT STANDARDS A. Subrecipient shall comply with 2 CFR Part 200, TXGMS and 10 TAC §1.404, this Contract, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances for making procurement transactions and purchases under this Contract. B. Subrecipient may not use funds provided under this Contract to purchase equipment (as defined by TXGMS) with a unit acquisition cost (the net invoice unit price of an item of equipment) of more than Five Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($5,000.00) or on any vehicle purchase unless Subrecipient has received the prior written approval from the Department for such purchase. C. When the Subrecipient no longer needs equipment purchased with CEAP grant funds, regardless of purchase price, or upon the termination of this Contract, Department may take possession and transfer title to any such property or equipment to the Department or to a third party or may seek reimbursement from Subrecipient of the current unit price of the item of equipment, in Department's sole determination. Subrecipient must request permission from the Department to transfer title or dispose of equipment purchased with CEAP grant funds. Page 8 of 33 SECTION 17. SUBCONTRACTS A. Subrecipient may not subgrant funds under this Contract or subcontract the primary performance of this Contract, including but not limited to expenditure and performance reporting and drawing funds through the Community Affairs Contract System, and only may enter into properly procured subcontractual agreements for consulting and other professional services, if Subrecipient has received Department's prior written approval. Subrecipient may subcontract for the delivery of client assistance without obtaining Department's prior approval. Any subcontract for the delivery of client assistance will be subject to monitoring by the Department. B. In no event shall any provision of this Section 17, specifically the requirement that Subrecipient obtain Department's prior written approval of a subcontractor, be construed as relieving Subrecipient of the responsibility for ensuring that the performances rendered under all subcontracts are rendered so as to comply with all of the terms of this Contract, as if such performances rendered were rendered by Subrecipient. Department's approval under this Section 17 does not constitute adoption, ratification, or acceptance of Subrecipient's or subcontractor's performance hereunder. Department maintains the right to monitor and require Subrecipient's full compliance with the terms of this Contract. Department's approval under this Section 17 does not waive any right of action which may exist or which may subsequently accrue to Department under this Contract. C. Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will maintain oversight to ensure that subcontractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. SECTION 18. TRAVEL The travel funds are to be used only for Department -approved training events. Subrecipient shall adhere to 2 CFR Part 200 (as applicable) and either its board -approved travel policy (not to exceed the amounts established in subchapter I of Chapter 57 of Title 5, United States Code Travel and Subsistence Expenses; Mileage Allowances), or in the absence of such a policy, the State of Texas travel policies under 10 TAC §1.408. Subrecipient's written travel policy shall delineate the rates which Subrecipient shall use in computing the travel and per diem expenses of its board members and employees. SECTION 19. BONDING AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS A. PAYMENT AND PERFORMANCE BOND. If Subrecipient will enter in to a construction or facility improvements contract with a third -party in the amount of Twenty -Five Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($25,000.00) or greater, Subrecipient must execute with the contractor a payment bond in the full amount of the contract. If the Subrecipient will enter in to contract with a prime contractor in excess of One Hundred Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($100,000.00), a performance bond in the full amount of the contract is also required. These bonds must be executed by a corporate surety authorized to do business in Texas, a list of which may be obtained from the State Insurance Department. Such assurances of completion will run to the Department as obligee and must be documented prior to the start of construction. This bonding requirement applies to the extent required by federal or state law. Page 9 of 33 B. INSURANCE. Subrecipient is basically a self -funded entity in accordance with Chapter 2259 of the Texas Government Code subject to statutory tort laws and, as such, generally, it does not maintain a commercial general liability insurance and/or auto liability policy. Subrecipient is encouraged to obtain pollution occurrence. Generally, regular liability insurance policies do not provide coverage for potential effects of many health and safety measures, such as lead disturbances and other pollution occurrence items. Subrecipient should review existing policies to determine if lead contamination is covered. If it is not, Subrecipient should consider securing adequate coverage for all construction projects. Additional liability insurance costs may be paid from administrative funds. The Department strongly recommends the Subrecipient require their contractors to carry pollution occurrence insurance to avoid being liable for any mistakes the contractors may make. Each agency should get a legal opinion regarding the best course to take SECTION 20. LITIGATION AND CLAIMS Subrecipient shall give Department immediate written notice of any claim or action filed with a court or administrative agency against Subrecipient and arising out of the performance of this Contract or any subcontract hereunder. Subrecipient shall furnish to Department copies of all pertinent papers received by Subrecipient with respect to such action or claim. SECTION 21. LEGAL AUTHORITY A. LEGAL AUTHORITY. Subrecipient represents that it possesses legal authority to apply for the Contract. A resolution, motion or similar action has been duly adopted or passed as an official act of the Subrecipient's governing body, authorizing the filing of the Contract, including all understandings and assurances contained therein, and directing and authorizing the person identified as the official representative, or the designee of Subrecipient to act in connection with the Contract and to provide such additional information as may be required. Subrecipient assures and guarantees that it possesses the legal authority to enter into this Contract to receive and manage the funds authorized by this Contract, and to perform the services Subrecipient has obligated itself to perform hereunder. The execution, delivery, and performance of this Contract will not violate Subrecipient's constitutive documents or any requirement to which Subrecipient is subject and represents the legal, valid, and binding agreement of Subrecipient, enforceable in accordance with its terms. B. SIGNATURE AUTHORITY. The person signing this Contract on behalf of Subrecipient hereby warrants that he/she has been duly authorized by Subrecipient's governing board to execute this Contract on behalf of Subrecipient and to validly and legally bind Subrecipient to the terms, provisions and performances herein. C. TERMINATION; LIABILITY. Department shall have the right to suspend or terminate this Contract if there is a dispute as to the legal authority of either Subrecipient, or the person signing this Contract on behalf of Subrecipient, to enter into this Contract or to render performances hereunder. Subrecipient is liable to Department for any money it has received from Department for performance of the provisions of this Contract, if the Department has terminated this Contract for reasons enumerated in this Section 21. D. MERGER: DEFAULT. Subrecipient understands that it is an event of default under this Contract if the Subrecipient liquidates, terminates, dissolves, merges, consolidates or fails to maintain good standing in the State of Texas, and such is not cured prior to causing material harm to Subrecipient's ability to perform under the terms of this Contract. Page 10 of 33 SECTION 22. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS A. FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL LAW. Subrecipient shall comply with the LIHEAP Act, the federal rules and regulations promulgated under the LIHEAP Act, the State Act, Chapter 2105 of the Texas Government Code, the State Rules, LIHEAP State Plan, and the certifications attached hereto. Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply, and assure the compliance of all its contractors, with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and policies in effect or hereafter established. In addition, Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply with all requirements imposed by the awarding agency concerning special requirements of law, program requirements, and other administrative requirements. In instances where multiple requirements apply to Subrecipient, the more restrictive requirement applies Subrecipient shall not violate any federal, state, or local laws, stated herein or otherwise, nor commit any illegal activity in the performance of or associated with the performance of this Contract. No funds under this Contract shall be used for any illegal activity or activity that violates any federal, state or local laws. B. DRUG -FREE WORKPLACE ACT OF 1988. The Subrecipient affirms by signing this Contract and the "Certification Regarding Drug -Free Workplace Requirements" attached hereto as Addendum B that it is implementing the Drug -Free Workplace Act of 1988 (41 U.S.C. §701, et seq) and HUD's implementing regulations including, without limitation, 2 CFR Parts 182 and 2429. C. LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY (" LEP"). Subrecipient must provide program applications, forms, and educational materials in English, Spanish, and any appropriate language, based on the needs of the Service Area and in compliance with the requirements in Executive Order 13166 of August 11, 2000. To ensure compliance, the Subrecipient must take reasonable steps to insure that persons with Limited English Proficiency have meaningful access to the program. Meaningful access may entail providing language assistance services, including oral and written translation, where necessary. D. INFORMATION SECURITY AND PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS 1. General. Subrecipient shall comply with the information security and privacy requirements under 10 TAC §1.24 to ensure the security and privacy of Protected Information (as said term is defined under 10 TAC §1.24). 2. Information Security and Privacy Agreement ("ISPA"). Prior to beginning any work under this Contract, Subrecipient shall either (i) have an effective, fully executed ISPA, as required by 10 TAC §1.24, on file with the Department, or (ii) will execute and submit to the Department an ISPA in accordance with instructions found on the Department's website at the "Information Security and Privacy Agreement" link. E. PREVENTION OF TRAFFICKING. Subrecipient and its contractors must comply with Section 106(g) of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended (22 U.S.C. §7104 et seq.). If Subrecipient or its contractor or subcontractor engages in, or uses labor recruiters, brokers or other agents who engage in any of the prohibited activities under Section 106(g) of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, Department may terminate this Contract and Subrecipient hereby agrees and acknowledges that upon termination, Subrecipient 's rights to any funds shall be terminated. F. CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT. Subrecipient represents and warrants that if the Contract involves construction of a project, it will comply with the requirements of the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 3701-3708) for contracts involving employment, as applicable. G. CLEAN AIR ACT AND THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTRAL ACT. Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387). Page 11 of 33 H. PROHIBITED EXPENDITURES ON CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT. 1. General. Pursuant to 2 CFR §200.216, Subrecipient and its contractors are prohibited from using funds under this Contract for equipment, services, or systems that use the following covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system in accordance with Section 889 of Public Law 115-232 (National Defense Authorization Act 2019): a) Telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities. b) For the purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, video surveillance and telecommunications equipment produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities). c) Telecommunications or video surveillance services provided by such entities or using such equipment. d) Telecommunications or video surveillance equipment or services produced or provided by an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reasonably believes to be an entity owned or controlled by, or otherwise connected to, the government of a covered foreign country. 2. Subcontracts. Subrecipient must incorporate this prohibition in any contract and require its contractors to incorporate this requirement into any contract. SECTION 23. PROCUREMENT OF RECOVERED MATERIALS Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply with the requirements of Section 6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (Chapter 361 of the Texas Health & Safety Code, formerly Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann. Art. 4477-7), as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. SECTION 24. PREVENTION OF WASTE, FRAUD, AND ABUSE A. Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply with Section 321.022 of the Texas Government Code which requires that suspected fraud and unlawful conduct be reported to the State Auditor's Office. B. Subrecipient shall establish, maintain, and utilize systems and correct waste, fraud, and abuse in activities funded under procedures shall address possible waste, fraud, and abuse clients, vendors, subcontractors and administering agencie systems and all transactions and other significant events are 1 documentation is to be readily available for monitoring by Department. procedures to prevent, detect, and this Contract. The systems and by Subrecipient, its employees, s. Subrecipient's internal control o be clearly documented, and the C. Subrecipient shall give Department complete access to all of its records, employees, and agents for the purposes of any investigation of the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program. Subrecipient shall immediately notify Department of any discovery of waste, fraud, or abuse. Subrecipient shall fully cooperate with Department's efforts to detect, investigate, and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse in the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program. D. Subrecipient may not discriminate against any employee or other person who reports a violation of the terms of this Contract, or of any law or regulation, to Department or to any appropriate law enforcement authority, if the report is made in good faith. Page 12 of 33 SECTION 25. CERTIFICATION REGARDING UNDOCUMENTED WORKERS Pursuant to Chapter 2264 of the Texas Government Code, by execution of this Contract, Subrecipient hereby certifies that Subrecipient, or a branch, division, or department of Subrecipient does not and will not knowingly employ an undocumented worker, where "undocumented worker" means an individual who, at the time of employment, is not lawfully admitted for permanent residence to the United States or authorized under law to be employed in that manner in the United States. If, after receiving a public subsidy, Subrecipient, or a branch, division, or department of Subrecipient is convicted of a violation under 8 U.S.C. §1324a(f), Subrecipient shall repay the public subsidy with interest, at a rate of five percent (5%) per annum, not later than the one hundred -twentieth (120th) day after the date the Department notifies Subrecipient of the violation. SECTION 26. CONFLICT OF INTEREST/NEPOTISM A. Subrecipient shall maintain written standards of conduct governing the performance of its employees engaged in the award and administration of contracts. B. No employee, officer, or agent of Subrecipient shall participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by federal funds if a real or apparent conflict of interest would be involved. Such a conflict would arise when the employee, officer, or agent, any member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or is about to employ any of the Parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in the firm selected for an award. C. The officers, employees, and agents of the Subrecipient shall neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors, or parties to sub -agreements. Subrecipient may set standards for situations in which the financial interest is not substantial or the gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. The standards of conduct shall provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations of such standards by officers, employees, or agents of the Subrecipient. D. Subrecipient shall, in addition to the requirements of this Section 26, follow the requirements of Chapter 171 of the Local Government Code regarding conflicts of interest of officers of municipalities, counties, and certain other local governments. E. Failure to maintain written standards of conduct and to follow and enforce the written standards is a condition of default under this Contract and may result in termination of the Contract or deobligation of funds. F. Subrecipient represents and warrants its compliance with the Federal awarding agency's conflict of interest policies in accordance 2 CFR §200.112. G. Subrecipient represents and warrants that performance under the Contract will not constitute an actual or potential conflict of interest or reasonably create an appearance of impropriety. H. Subrecipient represents and warrants that performance under the Contract will not constitute an actual or potential conflict of interest or reasonably create an appearance of impropriety. Further, Subrecipient represents and warrants that in the administration of the grant, it will comply with all conflict of interest prohibitions and disclosure requirements required by applicable law, rules, and policies, including Chapter 176 of the Texas Local Government Code. If circumstances change during the course of the Contract, Subrecipient shall promptly notify Department. Page 13 of 33 SECTION 27. POLITICAL ACTIVITY AND LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY PROHIBITED A. None of the funds provided under this Contract shall be used for influencing the outcome of any election, or the passage or defeat of any legislative measure. This prohibition shall not be construed to prevent any state official or employee from furnishing to any member of its governing body upon request, or to any other local or state official or employee or to any citizen information in the hands of the employee or official not considered under law to be confidential information. B. No funds provided under this Contract may be used directly or indirectly to hire employees or in any other way fund or support candidates for the legislative, executive, or judicial branches of government, the State of Texas, or the government of the United States. C. None of the funds provided under this Contract shall be used to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award governed by the Byrd Anti -Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. §1352) as the Subrecipient and each of its tiers have certified by their execution of the "Certification Regarding Lobbying for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements" attached hereto as Addendum A and incorporated herein for all relevant purposes. D. Subrecipient represents and warrants that Department's payments to Subrecipient and Subrecipient's receipt of appropriated or other funds under the Contract are not prohibited by Sections 403.1067 or 556.0055 of the Texas Government Code which restrict lobbying expenditures. SECTION 28. NON-DISCRIMINATION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY A. DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITED. In accordance with Section 2105.004 of the Texas Government Code, Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will not use block grant funds in a manner that discriminates on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or religion. B. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY. Subrecipient agrees to carry out an Equal Employment Opportunity Program in keeping with the principles as provided in President's Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, as amended, and its implementing regulations at 41 CFR Part 60. C. ACCESSIBILITY. Subrecipient must meet the standards under (i) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (5 U.S.C. §794) and (ii) Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. §§12131-12189; 47 U.S.C. §§155, 201, 218 and 255) as implemented by U. S. Department of Justice at 28 CFR Parts 35 and 36. Subrecipient shall operate each program or activity receiving financial assistance so that the program or activity, when viewed in its entirety, is readily accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities. Subrecipient is also required to provide reasonable accommodations for a Person with a Disability. D. AGE DISCRIMINATION. Subrecipient must comply with the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. §§ 6101-6107). E. SUBCONTRACTS. Subrecipient will include the substance of this Section 28 in all subcontracts Page 14 of 33 SECTION 29. DEBARRED AND SUSPENDED PARTIES; EXCLUDED PARTIES A. DEBARRED AND SUSPENDED PARTIES. By signing this Contract, Subrecipient certifies that none of its principal employees, board members, agents, or contractors are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded by any federal department or agency as provided on the State of Texas Debarred Vendor List maintained by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and the System for Award Management (SAM) maintained by the General Services Administration and in the Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters attached hereto as Addendum D and incorporated herein for all relevant purposes. The terms "covered transaction", "debarred", "suspended", "ineligible", "lower tier covered transaction", "participant", "person", "primary covered transaction", "principal", "proposal", and "voluntarily excluded", as used in the certification attached as Addendum D, have the meaning set out in the Definitions and Coverage sections of rules implementing Executive Order 12549. Subrecipient also certifies that it will not knowingly award any funds provided by this Contract to any person who is proposed for debarment under 48 CFR Part 9, subpart 9.4 or that is debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs under Executive Order 12549. Subrecipient agrees that prior to entering into any agreement with a potential subcontractor that the verification process to comply with this requirement will be accomplished by checking the System for Award Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov and including a copy of the results in its project files. After said verification, Subrecipient may decide the frequency by which it determines the eligibility of its subcontractors during the term of the subcontractor's agreement. Subrecipient may subsequently rely upon a certification of a subcontractor that is not proposed for debarment under 48 CFR Part 9, subpart 9.4, debarred, suspended, ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from the covered transaction, unless Subrecipient knows that the certification is erroneous. Failure of Subrecipient to furnish the certification attached hereto as Addendum D or an explanation of why it cannot provide said certification shall disqualify Subrecipient from participation under this Contract. The certification or explanation will be considered in connection with the Department's determination whether to continue with this Contract. Subrecipient shall provide immediate written notice to Department if at any time Subrecipient learns that the certification was erroneous when submitted or has become erroneous by reason of changed circumstances. Subrecipient further agrees by executing this Contract that it will include the certification provision titled "Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusive -Subcontracts," as set out in Addendum D, without modification, and this language under this Section 29, in all its subcontracts. B. EXCLUDED PARTIES. By signing this Contract, Subrecipient further certifies that it is not listed in the prohibited vendors list authorized by Executive Order No. 13224, "Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions with Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism", published by the United States Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control. Page 15 of 33 SECTION 30. INDEMNIFICATION SUBRECIPIENT SHALL DEFEND, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS THE STATE OF TEXAS AND THE DEPARTMENT, AND/OR THEIR OFFICERS, AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, CONTRACTORS, ASSIGNEES, AND/OR DESIGNEES FROM NY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CLAIMS, DEMANDS, OR SUITS, AND ALL RELATED COSTS, ATTORNEY FEES, AND EXPENSES ARISING OUT OF, OR RESULTING FROM ANY ACTS OR OM SSIONS OF SUBRECIPIENT OR ITS AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, SUBCONTRACTORS, ORDER FULFILLERS, OR SUPPLIERS OF SUBCONTRACTORS IN THE EXECUTION OR PERFORMANCE OF THE CONTRACT AND ANY PURCHASE ORDERS ISSUED UNDER THE CONTRACT. THE DEFENSE SHALL BE COORDINATED BY SUBRECIPIENT WITH THE OFFICE OF THE TEXAS ATTORNEY GENERAL WHEN TEXAS STATE AGENCIES ARE NAMED DEFENDANTS IN ANY LAWSUIT AND SUBRECIPIENT M Y NOT AGREE TO ANY SETTLEMENT WITHOUT FIRST OBTAINING THE CONCURRENCE FROM HE OFFICE OF THE TEXAS ATTORNEY GENERAL. SUBRECIPIENT AND DEPARTMENT AGREE TO FURNISH TIMELY WRITTEN NOTICE TO EACH OTHER OF ANY SUCH CLAIM. SECTION 31. FAITH BASED AND SECTARIAN ACTIVITY Funds provided under this Contract may not be used for sectarian or explicitly religious activities such as worship, religious instruction or proselytization, and must be for the benefit of persons regardless of religious affiliation. Subrecipient shall comply with the regulations promulgated by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services ("HHS") at 45 CFR Part 87. SECTION 32. COPYRIGHT Subrecipient may copyright materials developed in the performance of this Contract or with funds expended under this Contract. Department and HHS shall each have a royalty -free, nonexclusive, and irrevocable right to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use, and to authorize others to use, the copyrighted work for government purposes. SECTION 33. NO WAIVER A. RIGHT OR REMEDY. Any right or remedy given to Department by this Contract shall not preclude the existence of any other right or remedy, nor shall any action taken in the exercise of any right or remedy be deemed a waiver of any other right or remedy. The failure of Department to exercise any right or remedy on any occasion shall not constitute a waiver of Department's right to exercise that or any other right or remedy at a later time. B. SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY. The Parties expressly agree that no provision of the Contract is in any way intended to constitute a waiver by the Department or the State of Texas of any immunities from suit or from liability that the Department or the State of Texas may have by operation of law. SECTION 34. SEVERABILITY If any section or provision of this Contract is held to be invalid or unenforceable by a court or administrative tribunal of competent jurisdiction, the remainder shall remain valid and binding. SECTION 35. ORAL AND WRITTEN AGREEMENTS A. All oral and written agreements between the Parties relating to the subject matter of this Contract have been reduced to writing and are contained in this Contract. B. The attachments enumerated and denominated below are a part of this Contract and constitute promised performances under this Contract: Page 16 of 33 1. Addendum A - Certification Regarding Lobbying for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements 2. Addendum B - Certification Regarding Drug -Free Workplace Requirements 3. Addendum C - Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke 4. Addendum D - Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility iviatters 5. Addendum E - PRWORA Requirements 6. Exhibit A- Budget SECTION 36. SPECIAL CONDITIONS A. In order to achieve compliance with the LIHEAP Act, Subrecipient must coordinate with other energy related programs. Specifically, Subrecipient must make documented referrals to the local Weatherization Assistance Program. B. Subrecipient shall accept applications for CEAP benefits at sites that are geographically accessible to all Households in the Service Area. Subrecipient shall provide Elderly Persons and a Persons with a Disability who cannot independently travel to the application site the means to submit applications for CEAP benefits without leaving their residence or by securing transportation for them to the sites that accept such applications. C. Temporary flexibilities will be in place effective at the start of the Contract Term, until the later of the end of the COVID-19 disaster or December 31, 2023 to: 1. Allow Subrecipients to utilize Texas Rent Relief income certification. For such Households, no additional income documentation is needed as they are deemed income eligible through the Texas Rent Relief Program which also uses 150% AMI; 2. Allow the payment of 100% of a customer's annual usage in one lump sum; and 3. Allow a Non -Vulnerable Population Household with an inoperable heating and cooling unit to receive up to $7,500 for service and repair regardless of the existence of Crisis conditions. SECTION 37. APPEALS PROCESS In compliance with the LIHEAP Act, Subrecipient must provide an opportunity for a fair administrative hearing to individuals whose application for assistance is denied, terminated or not acted upon in a timely manner. Subrecipient must establish a denial of service complaint procedure in accordance with 10 TAC §6.8. SECTION 38. USE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Funds provided under this Contract may not be used for the payment of salaries to any Subrecipient's employees who use alcoholic beverages while on active duty, for travel expenses expended for alcoholic beverages, or for the purchase of alcoholic beverages. SECTION 39. FORCE MAJURE If the obligations are delayed by the following, an equitable adjustment will be made for delay or failure to perform hereunder: A. Any of the following events: (i) catastrophic weather conditions or other extraordinary elements of nature or acts of God; (ii) acts of war (declared or undeclared), (iii) acts of terrorism, insurrection, riots, civil disorders, rebellion or sabotage; and (iv) quarantines, disease, pandemics, embargoes and other similar unusual actions of federal, provincial, local or foreign Governmental Authorities; and Page 17 of 33 B. The non -performing party is without fault in causing or failing to prevent the occurrence of such event, and such occurrence could not have been circumvented by reasonable precautions and could not have been prevented or circumvented through the use of commercially reasonable alternative sources, workaround plans or other means. SECTION 40. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION The dispute resolution process provided in Chapter 2009 of the Texas Government Code is available to the parties to resolve any dispute arising under the Contract. If at any time the Subrecipient would like to engage Department in an Alternative Dispute Resolution ("ADR") procedure, the Subrecipient may send a proposal to Department's Dispute Resolution Coordinator. For additional information on Department's ADR policy, see Department's Alternative Dispute Resolution and Negotiated Rulemaking at 10 TAC §1.17. SECTION 41. OPEN MEETINGS If the Subrecipient is a governmental entity, Subrecipient represents and warrants its compliance with Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, which requires all regular, special or called meetings of a governmental body to be open to the public, except as otherwise provided by law. SECTION 42. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE Time is of the essence with respect to Subrecipient's compliance with all covenants, agreements, terms and conditions of this Contract. SECTION 43. COUNTERPARTS AND FACSIMILE SIGNATURES This Contract may be executed in one or more counterparts each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Signed signature pages may be transmitted by facsimile or other electronic transmission, and any such signature shall have the same legal effect as an original. SECTION 44. NUMBER, GENDER Unless the context requires otherwise, the words of the masculine gender shall include the feminine, and singular words shall include the plural. SECTION 45. CYBERSECURITY TRAINING PROGRAM A. Subrecipient represents and warrants its compliance with Section 2054.5191 of the Texas Government Code relating to the cybersecurity training program for local government employees who have access to a local government computer system or database. B. If Subrecipient has access to any state computer system or database, Subrecipient shall complete cybersecurity training and verify completion of the training program to the Department pursuant to and in accordance with Section 2054.5192 of the Government Code. SECTION 46. DISCLOSURE OF VIOLATIONS OF FEDERAL CRIMINAL LAW Subrecipient represents and warrants its compliance with 2 CFR §200.113 which requires the disclosure in writing of violations of federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, and gratuity and the reporting of certain civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings to SAM. Page 18 of 33 SECTION 47. DISCLOSURE PROTECTIONS FOR CERTAIN CHARITABLE ORGANIZTIONS, CHARIABLE TRUSTS, AND PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS Subrecipient represents and warrants that it will comply with Section 2252.906 of the Texas Government Code relating to disclosure protections for certain charitable organizations, charitable trusts, and private foundations. SECTION 48. NOTICE A. If a notice is provided concerning this Contract, notice may be given at the following (herein referred to as "Notice Address"): As to Department: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS P. O. Box 13941 Austin, Texas 78711-3941 Attention: Michael De Younq Telephone: (512) 475-2125 Fax: (512) 475-3935 michael.devounq(a)tdhca.state.tx.us As to Subrecipient: City of Fort Worth 200 Texas Street Annex, 3rd Floor Fort Worth, TX 761026312 Attention: Fernando Costa, Assistant City Manager Telephone: (817) 392-6122 Fax: (817) 392-6134 Email: fernando.costa@fortworthtexas.gov B. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be deemed given when delivered, mailed by overnight service, or five (5) days after mailing by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the appropriate Notice Address as defined in the above Subsection A of this Section 48. C. Subrecipient shall provide contact information and required notifications to the Department through the Contract System in accordance with 10 TAC §6.6 SECTION 49. VENUE AND JURISDICTION This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to the conflicts of law provisions. The venue of any suit arising under this Contract is fixed in any court of competent jurisdictions of Travis County, Texas. SECTION 50. EXECUTIVE HEAD OF STATE AGENCY AFFIRMATION In accordance with Section 669.003 of the Texas Government Code, relating to contracting with the executive head of a state agency, Subrecipient certifies that it is not (1) the executive head of the Department, (2) a person who at any time during the four years before the date of the Contract was the executive head of the Department, or (3) a person who employs a current or former executive head of the Department. Page 19 of 33 SECTION 51. VETERAN IDENTIFICATION IN PROGRAM APPLICATIONS The program applications must provide a space for applicants to indicate if they are a veteran as required by Section 434.212 of the Texas Government Code. In addition, the application must include the following statement: "Important Information for Former Military Services Members. Women and men who served in any branch of the United States Armed Forces, including Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, Reserves or National Guard, may be eligible for additional benefits and services. For more information please visit the Texas Veterans Portal at https:Hveterans.portal.texas.gov/. SECTION 52. ASSIGNMENT This Contract is made by Department to Subrecipient only. Accordingly, it is not assignable without the written consent and agreement of Department, which consent may be withheld in Department's sole discretion. EXECUTED to be effective on January 01, 2023 SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm DEPARTMENT: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS, a public and official agency of the State of Texas By: Robert Wilkinson Title: Its duly authorized officer or representative Date: January 5, 2023 12:30 pm Page 20 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) ADDENDUM A CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING FOR CONTRACTS, GRANTS, LOANS, AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS The undersigned certifies, to the best of its knowledge and belief, that: No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement. 2. If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit standard form -LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying", in accordance with its instructions. 3. The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all sub -awards at all tiers (including subcontracts, sub -grants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub -recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is material representation of fact on which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by Section 1352, Title 31 of the U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. STATEMENT FOR LOAN GUARANTEES AND LOAN INSURANCE The undersigned states, to the best of its knowledge and belief, that: If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions. Submission of this statement is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by Section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required statement shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000.00 and not more than $100,000.00 for each such failure. Page 21 of 33 SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm Page 22 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) ADDENDUM B CERTIFICATION REGARDING DRUG -FREE WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS This certification is required by the regulations implementing the Drug -Free Workplace Act of 1988: 45 CFR Part 76, Subpart, F. Sections 76.630(c) and (d)(2) and 76.645 (a)(1) and (b) provide that a Federal agency may designate a central receipt point for STATE-WIDE AND STATE AGENCY -WIDE certifications, and for notification of criminal drug convictions. For the Department of Health and Human Services, the central point is: Division of Grants Management and Oversight, Office of Management and Acquisition, Department of Health and Human Services, Room 517-D, 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201. The undersigned certifies that it will or will continue to provide a drug -free workplace by: (a) Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the grantee's workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violation of such prohibition; (b) Establishing an ongoing drug -free awareness program to inform employees about- (1) The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace; (2) The grantee's policy of maintaining a drug -free workplace; (3) Any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs; and (4) The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations occurring in the workplace; (c) Making it a requirement that each employee to be engaged in the performance of the grant be given a copy of the statement required by paragraph (a); (d) Notifying the employee in the statement required by paragraph (a) that, as a condition of employment under the grant, the employee will- (1) Abide by the terms of the statement; and (2) Notify the employer in writing of his or her conviction for a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace no later than five calendar days after such conviction; (e) Notifying the agency in writing, within ten (10) calendar days after receiving notice under paragraph (d)(2) from an employee or otherwise receiving actual notice of such conviction. Employers of convicted employees must provide notice, including position title, to every grant officer or other designee on whose grant activity the convicted employee was working, unless the Federal agency has designated a central point for the receipt of such notices. Notice shall include the identification number(s) of each affected grant; (f) Taking one of the following actions, within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving notice under paragraph (d)(2), with respect to any emDlovee who is so convicted- (1) Taking appropriate personnel action against such an employee, up to and including termination, consistent with the requirements of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; or (2) Requiring such employee to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a Federal, State, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency; (g) Making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug -free workplace through implementation of paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) and (f). Page 23 of 33 Place(s) of Performance [site(s) for the performance of work done in connection with the specific grant] (include street address, city, county, state, zip code): City of Fort Worth 200 Texas Street Annex, 3rd Floor Fort Worth, TX 761026312 Workplace identifications must include the actual address of buildings (or parts of buildings) or other sites where work under the grant takes place. Categorical descriptions may be used (e.g., all vehicles of a mass transit authority or State highway department while in operation, State employees in each local unemployment office, performers in concert halls or radio studios). If Subrecipient does not identify the workplaces at the time of application, or upon award, if there is no application, the Subrecipient must keep the identity of the workplace(s) on file in its office and make the information available for Federal inspection. Failure to identify all known workplaces constitutes a violation of the Subrecipient's drug -free workplace requirements. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance is placed when the Department awards the grant. If it is later determined that Subrecipient knowingly rendered a false certification, or otherwise violates the requirements of the Drug -Free Workplace Act, Department, in addition to any other remedies available to the Federal Government, may take action authorized under the Drug -Free Workplace Act. SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm Page 24 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) ADDENDUM C CERTIFICATION REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE The undersigned certifies to the following: Public Law 103227, Part C Environmental Tobacco Smoke, also known as the Pro Children Act of 1994, requires that smoking not be permitted in any portion of any indoor facility routinely owned or leased or contracted for by an entity and used routinely or regularly for provision of health, day care, education, or library services to children under the age of eighteen (18), if the services are funded by Federal programs either directly or through State or local governments, by Federal grant, contract, loan, or loan guarantee. The law does not apply to children's services provided in private residences, facilities funded solely by Medicare or Medicaid funds, and portions of facilities used for inpatient drug or alcohol treatment. Failure to comply with the provisions of the law may result in the imposition of a civil monetary penalty of up to $1,000.00 per day and/or the imposition of an administrative compliance order on the responsible entity. By signing and submitting this Contract the Subrecipient certifies that it will comply with the requirements of the Act. The applicant/grantee further agrees that it will require the language of this certification be included in any subcontract which contain provisions for the children's services and that all subcontracts shall certify accordingly. SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm Page 25 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 Y 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) ADDENDUM D CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS The undersigned certifies, to the best of its knowledge and belief, that it and its principals: (a) Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarilv excluded by anv Federal department or apencw (b) Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property; (c) Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State or local) with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in section (b) of this certification; (d) Have not within a three-year period preceding this application/proposal had one or more public transactions (Federal, State or local) terminated for cause or default; and (e) will submit to the Department information about each proceeding that occurs during this Contract Term or during the recordkeeping period that: (1) Is in connection with this award; (2) Reached its final disposition during the most resent five year period; and (3) Is one of the following: i. A criminal proceeding that resulted in a conviction, as defined below; ii. A civil proceeding that resulted in a finding of fault and liability and payment of a monetary fine, penalty, reimbursement, restitution, or damages of $5,000 or more; iii. An administrative proceeding, as defined below, that resulted in a finding of fault and liability and your payment of either a monetary fine or penalty of $5,000.00 or more or reimbursement, restitution, or damage in excess of $100,000.00; or iv. Any other criminal, civil, or administrative proceeding if: 1. It could have led to an outcome described in this section (e) paragraph (3) items (i) - (iii) of this award term and condition; 2. It had a different disposition arrived at by consent or compromise with an acknowledgment of fault on your part; and 3. The requirement in this award term and condition to disclose information about the proceeding does not conflict with applicable laws and regulations. Page 26 of 33 (4) For purposes of section (e) of this certification the following definitions apply: An "administrative proceeding" means a non -judicial process that is adjudicatory in nature in order to make a determination of fault or liability (e.g., Securities and Exchange Commission Administrative proceedings, Civilian Board of Contract Appeals proceedings, and Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals proceedings). This includes proceedings at the Federal and State level but only in connection with performance of a Federal contract or grant. It does not include audits, site visits, corrective plans, or inspection of deliverables. ii. A "conviction", for purposes of this award term and condition, means a judgment or conviction of a criminal offense by any court of competent jurisdiction, whether entered upon a verdict or a plea, and includes a conviction entered upon a plea of nolo contendere. Where the undersigned Subrecipient is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such Subrecipient shall attach an explanation of why it cannot provide said certification to this Contract. The undersigned Subrecipient further agrees and certifies that it will include the below clause titled "Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion-Subcontracts/Lower Tier Covered Transaction," without modification, in all subcontracts and in all solicitations for subcontracts: "CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION, INELIGIBILITY AND VOLUNTARY EXCLUSION - SUBCONTRACTS/ LOWER TIER COVERED TRANSACTIONS (1) The prospective lower tier participant/subcontractor certifies, by submission of this proposal, that neither it nor its principals is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any Federal department or agency. (2) Where the prospective lower tier participant/subcontractor is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such prospective participant shall attach an explanation to this proposal. LOWER TIER PARTICIPANT/SUBCONTRACTOR: [Signature] Printed Name: Title: Date: This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance is placed when the Department awards the grant. If it is later determined that Subrecipient knowingly rendered an erroneous certification, in addition to any other remedies available to the Federal Government, the Department may terminate this Contract for cause or default. SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm Page 27 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) ADDENDUM E PRWORA REQUIREMENTS If an individual is applying for LIHEAP funds, a Subrecipient must verify that the individual applying for LIHEAP funds is a qualified recipient for funding under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996, ("PRWORA") or ("Act"), Pub. L. 104-193, 110 Stat. 2105, codified at 8 U.S.C. §1601 et. seq., as amended by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 1997, Pub. L. 104-208. There are certain types of assistance that are not subject to the Act's restriction on access to public benefits based on immigration status. This includes activities that: (1) deliver in -kind services at the community level, (2) are necessary for the protection of life or safety, and (3) do not condition the provision of assistance on the applicant's income or resources. To ensure that a non -qualified applicant does not receive "federal public benefits," a unit of general purpose government that administers "federal public benefit programs" is required to determine, and to verify, the individual's alienage status before granting eligibility (8 U.S.C. §1642 (a) and (b)). Subrecipient must use the SAVE verification system to verify and document qualified alien eligibility. CERTIFICATION REGARDING USE OF THE SYSTEMATIC ALIEN VERIFICATION FOR ENTITLEMENTS (SAVE) SYSTEM Subrecipient shall: (1) System Use. (a) Establish the identity of the applicants and require each applicant to present the applicant's immigration or naturalization documentation that contains the information (e.g., alien registration number) required by the SAVE Program; (b) Physically examine the documentation presented by the applicant and determine whether the document(s) reasonably appear(s) to be genuine and to relate to the individual; (c) Provide to the SAVE Program the information the SAVE Program requires to respond to Subrecipient requests for verification of immigration or naturalized or derived citizenship status information, including (1) information from the applicant's immigration or naturalization documentation for initial automated verification, (2) additional information obtained from the alien's immigration or naturalization documentation for automated additional verification, and (3) completed Forms G-845 and other documents and information required for manual additional verification. For manual only verification, ensure that Forms G-845 and other documents and information required for manual verification are provided; (d) Ensure that, prior to using the Verification Information System, all employees designated by Subrecipient to use SAVE on behalf of the Subrecipient ("Users") performing verification procedures complete SAVE required training including: reading the SAVE Program Guide, taking the latest version of Web tutorial(s) and maintaining a working knowledge of requirements contained therein and in this Contract as updated. Documentation of training must be maintained by the Subrecipient for monitoring review; Page 28 of 33 (e) Ensure that Users are provided with and maintain User Ids only while they have a need to perform verification procedures; (f) Ensure all Users performing verification procedures comply with all requirements contained in the SAVE Program Guide, web -based tutorial, this Contract, and updates to these requirements; (g) Ensure that all Users performing verification procedures have contact information for the SAVE Program and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance. (h) Ensure all Users perform any additional verification procedures the SAVE Program requires and/or the applicant requests after the Subrecipient initiates a request for verification; (i) Use any information provided by DHS-USCIS under this Contract solely for the purpose of determining the eligibility of persons applying for the benefit issued by the Subrecipient and limit use of such information in accordance with this and all other provisions of this Contract; 0) Comply with the requirements of the Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014 (FISMA) (PL-113-283, as amended) and OMB guidance as applicable to electronic storage, transport of records between agencies, and the internal processing of records received by either agency under the terms of this Contract; (k) Safeguard such information and access methods to ensure that it is not used for any other purpose than described in this Contract and protect its confidentiality; including ensuring that it is not disclosed to any unauthorized person(s) without the prior written consent of DHS-USCIS. Each applicant seeing access to information regarding him/her may do so by submitting a written signed request to DHS-USCIS. (1) Comply with the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. §552a, the Texas Public Information Act and other applicable laws, regulations, and policies, including but not limited to all OMB and DHS privacy guidance, in conducting verification procedures pursuant to this Contract, and in safeguarding, maintaining, and disclosing any data provided or received pursuant to this Contract; (m) Comply with federal laws prohibiting discrimination against applicants and discriminatory use of the SAVE Program based upon the national origin, color, race, gender, religion, or disability of the applicant; (n) Provide all benefit -applicants who are denied benefits based solely or in part on the SAVE response with adequate written notice of the denial and the information necessary to contact DHS-USCIS so that such individual may correct their records in a timely manner, if necessary. A Fact Sheet that includes the process by which applicants may contact DHS-USCIS is posted on their website. (o) Provide all benefit -applicants who are denied benefits based solely or in part on the SAVE response with the opportunity to use the Subrecipient's existing process to appeal the denial and to contact DHS-USCIS to correct their records prior to a final decision, if necessary; and (p) Refrain from using SAVE, or assisting any person or entity, to comply with the employment eligibility verification requirements of Section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. §1324a. (2) Monitoring and Compliance. (a) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to monitor and review all records and documents related to the use, abuse, misuse, fraudulent use or improper use of SAVE by the Subrecipient, including, but not limited to original applicant consent documents required by the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. §552a or other applicable authority; Page 29 of 33 (b) Notify the Department's Compliance Division immediately whenever there is reason to believe a violation of this agreement has occurred; (c) Notify the Department's Compliance Division immediately whenever there is reason to believe an information breach has occurred as a result of User or Subrecipient action or inaction pursuant to Office of Management and Budget (O ) Memorandum M-07-16, "Safeguarding Against and Responding to the Breach of Personally Identifiable Information;" (d) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to monitor and review all records and documents related to the use, abuse, misuse, fraudulent use or improper use of SAVE by any User, including, but not limited to original applicant consent documents required by the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. §552a or other applicable authority; (e) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to conduct desk audits and/or site visits to review Subrecipient's compliance with this Exhibit B and all other SAVE -related policy, procedures, guidance and law applicable to conducting verification and safeguarding, maintaining, and disclosing any data provided or received pursuant to this Contract; (f) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to perform audits of Subrecipient's User Ids use and access, SAVE Training Records, SAVE financial records, SAVE biographical information, system profiles and usage patterns and other relevant data; (g) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to interview any and all Users and any and all contact persons or other personnel within the Subrecipient's organization or relevant contractors regarding any and all questions or problems which may arise in connection with the Subrecipient's participation in SAVE; (h) Allow Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance to monitor system access and usage and to assist SAVE users as necessary to ensure compliance with the terms of this Exhibit B and the SAVE Program requirements by its authorized agents or designees; (i) Take corrective measures in a timely manner to address all lawful requirements and recommendations on every written finding including but not limited to those of the Department or SAVE Monitoring and Compliance regarding waste, fraud, and abuse, and discrimination or any misuse of the system, non-compliance with the terms, conditions and safeguards of this Exhibit B, SAVE Program procedures or other applicable law, regulation or policy; and 0) Provide Department and SAVE Monitoring and Compliance with the current e-mail, U.S. postal service address, physical address, name and telephone number Users authorized representative for any notifications, questions or problems that may arise in connection with Users participation in SAVE and with notification of changes in the benefit offered by the User. (3) Criminal Penalties. (a) DHS-USCIS reserves the right to use information from TDHCA or Subrecipient for any purpose permitted by law, including, but not limited to, the prosecution of violations of Federal administrative or criminal law. (b) The Subrecipient acknowledges that the information it receives from DHS-USCIS is governed by the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. §552a, and that any person who obtains this information under false pretenses or uses it for any purpose other than as provided for in this Contract may be subject to criminal penalties. (4) Third Party Liability. (a) Each party to this Contract shall be solely responsible for its own defense against any claim or action by third parties arising out of or related to the execution and/or performance of this Contract, whether civil or criminal, and retain responsibility for the payment of any corresponding liability. Page 30 of 33 (b) Nothing in this Contract is intended, or should be construed, to create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law by any third party against the United States, its agencies, officers, or employees, the State of Texas, its agencies, officers, or employees, or the Subrecipient. (5) Points of Contact Michael De Young Director of Community Affairs Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Community Affairs Division P n Rnx 13941 Austin, TX 78711-3941 Phone: (512) 475-2125 Email: michael.deyoung(cb_tdhca.state.tx.us USCIS SAVE Program MS 2620 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department of Homeland Security Washington, DC 20529-2620 ATTN: SAVE Operations Phone: (888) 464-4218 Email: saveregistration(cbdhs.gov USCIS SAVE Monitoring and Compliance MS 2640 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department of Homeland Security Washington, DC 20529-2640 Phone: (888) 464-4218 Email: save. monitoring(a)dhs.gov (6) Certification. The undersigned hereby certifies to the Department that all information herein is true and correct to the best of their knowledge and belief. The purpose of this statement is to certify that City of Fort Worth (Subrecipient): ❑ Is NOT a private nonprofit charitable organization and is an entity created by State Statute and affiliated with a state or governmental entity (such as a housing finance agency, public housing authority, unit of local government, council of governments, county, etc.) Certification must have the signature from a representative with authority to execute documents on the Subrecipient's behalf. I certify that I understand that fines and imprisonment up to five years are penalties for knowingly and willingly making a materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry in any matter under the jurisdiction of the federal government (18 U.S.C. Sec. 1001). SUBRECIPIENT: City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas By: Fernando Costa Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4, 2023 4:36 pm Page 31 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS CONTRACT NUMBER 58230003822 FY 2023 COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) (CFDA # 93.568) EXHIBIT A BUDGET City of Fort Worth a political subdivision of the State of Texas DEPARTMENT FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS $ 6,486,961.00 CEAP FUNDS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE $ 2,500.00 TRAINING TRAVEL ALLOWANCE FUNDS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE BUDGET FOR AVAILABLE ALLOCATIONS BUDGET CATEGORY FUNDS % Administration $ 468,359.00 - Direct Services $ 6,016,102.00 - TOTAL CEAP BUDGET $ 6,484,461.00 - BUDGET CATEGORY FUNDS % Household Crisis $ 2,608,281.00 43.35 Utility Assistance $ 2,608,281.00 43.35 Program Services $ 799,540.00 13.29 TOTAL DIRECT SERVICES $ 6,016,102.00 100.00 General Administrative and coordination of CEAP, including costs and all indirect (overhead) cost, examples include salaries, fringe benefits, non -training travel, equipment, supplies, audit and office space are limited to 7.22% of the Contract expenditures. All other administrative costs, exclusive of costs for program services, must be paid with nonfederal funds. Page 32 of 33 Program services cost shall not exceed the maximum 13.29%. Program services cost includes direct administrative cost associated with providing the client direct service salaries and benefits cost for staff providing program services, cost for supplies, equipment, travel, postage, utilities, rental of office space. All items listed above are allowable program services costs when associated with providing client direct services. Other program services costs may include outreach activities and expenditures on the information technology and computerization needed for tracking or monitoring required by CEAP. Department's prior written approval for purchase or lease of equipment with an acquisition cost of $5,000 and over is required. Approval of this budget does not constitute prior approval for such purchases. Subrecipient is limited to only one budget revision request during the first 6 months of the Contract Term. A second and final budget revision must be received by the Department no later than 45 calendar days prior to the end of the Contract Term. Subrecipient shall provide outreach services under all components in this category. Failure to do so may result in termination of this Contract. Subrecipient must document outreach, whether the outreach is conducted with CEAP funds or other funds. Vendor Refunds Subrecipient must determine which TDHCA contract the payment(s) were charged to, the clients(s) associated to the payment(s), and if the Contract Term has expired. If the Contract Term has not expired, Subrecipient must enter the amount into the Contract System in the appropriate budget line item into the Adjustment column in the monthly report and make an appropriate note in the system. This will credit back the vendor refund (s) for the Subrecipient to expend on eligible expenses during the Contract Term. If the Contract Term has expired, Subrecipient must return the vendor refund (s) to the Department. This refund must contain the contract number, and appropriate budget line item associated to the refund(s). Page 33 of 33 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS 2023 CEAP PROGRAM CONTRACT NO. 58230003822 CSC No. APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY: Jessika Williams Assistant City Attorney ATTEST: 4 ZwlegtQ S Gogdgk1 Jannette S. Goodall (Jan 13, 2023 09:48 CST) Jeannette Goodall City Secretary M&C: M&C 22-0965 Dated: November 29, 2022 CITY OF FORT WORTH By: Fernando Costa (signed electronically -see attached contract) Title: Assistant City Manager Date: January 4,2023 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS By: Robert Wilkinson (signed electronically -see attached contract) Title: Its duly authorized officer or representative Date: January 5,2023 Contract Compliance Manager: By signing below, I acknowledge that I am the person responsible for the monitoring and administration of this contract, including ensuring all performance and reporting requirements. Sonia Singleton, Assis Director Neighborhood Servic s OFFICIAL RECORD CITY SECRETARY FT. WORTH, TX M&C Review Page 1 of 3 Official site of the City of Fort Worth, Texas A CITY COUNCIL AGEND Fo RT WORTH Create New From This M&C DATE: 11/29/2022 REFERENCE NO.: **M&C 22-0965 LOG NAME: 19NS CEAP 2023 CODE: C TYPE: CONSENT PUBLIC NO HEARING: SUBJECT: (ALL) Authorize Acceptance of a Grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs in an Amount Up to $8,000,000.00 for the 2023 Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program, a Federally Funded Program Sponsored by the United States Department of Health and Human Services Designed to Provide Utility Payment Assistance and Energy Conservation Education for "Low to Moderate" Income Residents, Authorize Related Contracts, Adopt Appropriation Ordinance, and Waive Indirect Costs RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council: 1. Authorize the acceptance of Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program funds in an amount up to $8,000,000.00 from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs; 2. Authorize the execution of related contracts, including any amendments, renewals and extensions in accordance with City policies and regulations with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for the grant funds for the program year beginning on January 1, 2023 and ending on December 31, 2023; 3. Adopt the attached appropriation ordinance increasing estimated receipts and appropriations in the Grants Operating Federal Fund, subject to receipt of the grant, in an amount up to $8,000,000.00 for the purpose of funding utility payment assistance and energy conservation education for "low to moderate" income residents; and 4. Authorize a waiver of the Neighborhood Services Department indirect cost rate of 17.29\%, estimated total of $165,284.27. DISCUSSION: The City of Fort Worth (City) contracts with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to provide the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) through the Community Action Partners (CAP), which is managed by the City's Neighborhood Services Department. The TDHCA has notified the City to use the prior year's grant award and contract amount as a planning figure for the 2023 CEAP. The total 2022 contract amount was $5,319,219.00. CAP staff projects an increase in funding resulting in an estimated grant award in an amount up to $8,000,000.00 for this program in 2023. The additional appropriation takes into account anticipated energy rate increases and the award of subsequent grant amounts due to other grantees being unable to spend their funding. During the past five years, the City has received an average of $6,386,944.00 per year and as much as $7,101,333.00 in one year. The three components of the program are: 1. Household Energy Crisis - weatherization and/or energy related assistance, repair of HVAC systems and/or purchase of window units; 2. Utility Assistance - assistance to all eligible households with priority given to household composition of elderly and/or disabled members or a child under the age of five; and 3. Education - providing information about energy conservation measures. All households at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines will be afforded access to the program. Applicant households will be determined eligible according to income http://apps.cfwnet.org/council_packet/mc review.asp?ID=30518&councildate=l1/29/2022 1/11/2023 M&C Review Page 2 of 3 guidelines and program policies. Benefit determinations include household income, household size, energy consumption and/or vulnerability, and the availability of funds. CAP staff will accept applications at nine neighborhood CAP facilities and at other identified locations throughout Tarrant County. Payments will be made for eligible clients directly to the utility vendors, and heating and cooling system repair companies. TDHCA allows no more than 7.22 percent of the grant award excluding travel and training) to be budgeted for administrative costs and 13.29 percent for program service costs. The remaining funds will be used for Household Energy Crisis and Utility Assistance for the duration of the contract. From January 2022 to September 2022, CAP served 4,284 households and 9,770 individuals using this grant. This grant is an entitlement grant received from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The grant has been consistently awarded to the City since 1982. Grant funds support administrative and program delivery allocations for 20.00 FTE positions in the Neighborhood Services Department. Indirect costs totaling an estimated $165,284.27, calculated by taking wages & salaries designated for this grant of approximately $955,953.00 multiplied by the Neighborhood Service Departments' indirect cost rate of 17.29\% defined in the City's most recent Cost Allocation Plan, could be charged to this grant. A waiver of these indirect costs is requested to allow allocation of these funds to further support the programs and services to assist "low -to -moderate" income citizens. Positions funded with Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program grant funds are subject to grant availability. In the event of a grant award being decreased or eliminated, Neighborhood Services Department would review programs and services funded by the grants and determine a level of service and staffing that aligns with the available funding. Alternative to consider may include staff and program reductions or eliminations. No matching funds are required from the City for the CEAP Grant. This program serves ALL COUNCIL DISTRICTS. FISCAL INFORMATION/CERTIFICATION: The Director of Finance certifies that upon approval of the above recommendations and adoption of the attached appropriation ordinance, funds will be available in the current operating budget, as appropriated, in the Grants Operating Federal Fund. The Neighborhood Services Department (and Financial Management Services) will be responsible for the collection and deposit of funds due to the City. Prior to an expenditure being incurred, the Neighborhood Services Department has the responsibility to validate the availability of funds. This is a reimbursement grant. TO Fund Department Account I Project Program Activity Budget Reference # Amount ID ID Year (Chartfield 2) FROM Fund Department Account Project Program Activity Budget Reference # Amount ID ID Year Chartfield 2 Submitted for City Manager's Office by: Originating Department Head: Additional Information Contact: Fernando Costa (6122) Victor Turner (8187) Sonia Singleton (5774) Benedict George (7339) http://apps.cfwnet.org/council_packet/mc review.asp?ID=30518&councildate=l1/29/2022 1/11/2023 M&C Review Page 3 of 3 ATTACHMENTS ORD.APP19NS CEAP 2023 21001 AO23(Q).clocx (Public) http://apps.cfwnet.org/council_packet/mc review.asp?ID=30518&councildate=ll/29/2022 1/11/2023