L.C. Gaskins Construction Co., Inc.

ARMED SERVICES BOARD OF CONTRACT APPEALS
Appeals of -- )
)
L.C. Gaskins Construction Co., Inc. ) ASBCA Nos. 58550, 59901, 59902
)
Under Contract No. N69450-09-C-5068 )
APPEARANCES FOR THE APPELLANT: Dirk D. Haire, Esq.
Alexa Santora, Esq.
P. Sean Milani-nia, Esq.
Fox Rothschild LLP
Washington, DC
APPEARANCES FOR THE GOVERNMENT: Ronald J. Borro, Esq.
Navy Chief Trial Attorney
Ellen M. Evans, Esq.
Stephen D. Tobin, Esq.
David M. Marquez, Esq.
Senior Trial Attorneys
OPINION BY ADMINISTRATIVE JUDGE THRASHER
This appeal arises from L.C. Gaskins Construction Co., Inc.'s (Gaskins'),
performance of a contract with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (Navy or
government) to provide structural repairs to Hangar 1552 at Mayport Naval Station,
Florida. Gaskins subcontracted with an industrial coatings contractor, DACA, LLC
(DACA), to perform a subset of the repair work requiring DACA to abrasively blast
existing paint off of 34 hangar trusses, recoat the trusses with new paint, and dispose of
the spent blast debris. Gaskins' seeks damages as well as excusable and compensatory
time extensions resulting from alleged differing site conditions and changes caused by the
government. In response, the government asserts affirmative defenses of fraud in
performance and fraud in the inducement as well as asserting two affirmative claims:
(1) assessment of liquidated damages resulting from alleged 32 calendar days of
contractor delay, and; (2) damages resulting from alleged defective welding and deficient
quality control. The Board conducted a nine-day hearing in Jacksonville, Florida. We
only decide entitlement.
FINDINGS OF FACT
Project and Solicitation Requirements
1. Solicitation No. N69450-09-R-5068, dated 1 December 2008, requested
proposals for Hangar 1552 structural repairs at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. Pertinent
to these appeals, a subset of the repair work required the contractor to environmentally
contain its work, abrasively blast existing paint off of the 34 hangar trusses, recoat the
trusses with new paint, and dispose of the spent blast debris. (R4, tab 1 at 1-4)
2. Hangar 1552 is a rectangular building approximately eight-hundred (800) feet
long, one-hundred and fifty (150) feet wide, and thirty (30) feet high. The building is
primarily dedicated to maintenance and repair of helicopters but also includes two floors
of office space. The hangar roof is supported by thirty-four (34) external steel trusses
that extend approximately twenty (20) feet above the roof. (R4, tab 1at161;
tr. 7/169-75) Each of the 34 trusses supports a structural load (tr. 7/174). Because the
trusses extend above the roof, they were exposed to the elements and, in the time since
Hangar 1552 was originally erected, had become severely corroded (R4, tab 1 at 161;
tr. 7/175). At the time the RFP was issued, the trusses were so corroded that the
structural integrity of the roof, and therefore the hangar, was in question (tr. 7/175-76).
3. The source selection was conducted as a negotiated procurement pursuant to
FAR Part 15 and the solicitation was structured in six parts:
Part 1, "Proposal Forms and Documents" containing the bid
schedule, solicitation submittal requirements, and contract
clauses (R4, tab 1 at 1-48);
Part 2, "General Requirements" (id. at 51-155);
Part 3, "Project Program" containing a "Project Description,"
"Project Objectives," "Site Analysis," and an extensive
section entitled "Engineering Systems Requirements" (id.
at 156-70);
Part 4, "Performance Technical Specifications" (id.
at 171-216);
Part 5, "Prescriptive Technical Specifications" (R4, tab 3
at 465-93); and
Part 6, "Attachments" which included "A-Drawings,"
"B-Reports," and "C-Contractor Data Required." At
2
"B-Reports" there are three reports: B. l, a Field Visual
Inspection Report from URS Group, B.2, Environmental
Testing by ENCO, and B.3, a Geotechnical Evaluation by
Wolf Technologies, Inc. (R4, tab 1at218-451)
4. Part 1 of the solicitation incorporated the following pertinent clause:
5252.236-9312, DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACT-ORDER OF
PRECEDENCE (AUGUST 2006)
(A) In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between any of
the below described portions of the conformed contract,
precedence shall be given in the following order:
( 1) Any portions of the proposal or final design that
exceed the requirements of the solicitation.
(a) Any portion of the proposal that exceeds the
final design.
(b) Any portion of the final design that exceeds
the proposal.
( c) Where portions within either the proposal or
the final design conflict, the portion that most
exceeds the requirements of the solicitation has
precedence.
(2) The requirements of the solicitation, in descending
order of precedence:
(a) Standard Form 1442, Price Schedule, and
Davis Bacon Wage Rates.
(b) Part I - Contract Clauses.
(c) Part 2 - General Requirements.
(d) Part 3 - Project Program Requirements.
(e) Part 6 - Attachments (excluding Concept
Drawings).
(f) Part 5 - Prescriptive Specifications exclusive
of performance specifications.
(g) Part 4 - Performance Specifications
exclusive of prescriptive specifications.
(h) Part 6 -Attachments (Concept Drawings).
3
(B) Government review or approval of any portion of the
proposal or final design shall not relieve the contractor from
responsibility for errors or omissions with respect thereto.
(R4, tab 1 at 40)
Environmental Status of the Project
5. In May 2008, approximately seven months prior to release of the solicitation,
the government contracted with a third-party, a certified laboratory, to conduct two tests
of the existing paint on the roof trusses: Totals testing and Toxicity Characteristic
Leaching Procedure (TCLP) testing (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 143). Totals testing provides
the total metal content of the paint. TCLP testing is designed to determine the
leachability of metals present in the paint. Essentially, TCLP testing is designed to
determine the likelihood of metals leaching into a landfill, once the paint is disposed of as
a waste. (Tr. 6/129-30)
6. Upon receiving the test results in May 2008, Ms. Patricia Kostic (an
Environmental Site Manager working for Naval Station Mayport and the individual
responsible for selecting the truss locations for testing) remarked "Chromium, Cadmium,
and Lead is off the chart for worker protection but, good for Non-haz[ ardous] disposal"
(app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 143 at 223). Ms. Kostic then forwarded the results to her
supervisor, Ms. Cheryl Mitchell (Naval Station Mayport's Environmental Director).
Ms. Mitchell also remarked that the results were "[b]ad news for worker exposure but
good news for waste disposal. You win some, you lose some." (App. 2nd supp. R4,
tab 14 2 at 221)
7. The test results were released to the offerors as attachment B.2 of the
solicitation which indicates lead, chromium and other metals in the paint. One report
shows lead at 9200 "mg/kg wet" and chromium at 3300 "mg/kg wet." (R4, tab 1 at 345,
349) The report incorrectly identifies the samples as roof tiles but the chain of custody
record correctly identifies them as having come from roof trusses and a schematic
drawing shows the samples were taken from the trusses (id. at 358-59). Also included in
attachment B.2 was an email from Ms. Mitchell, expressly advising offerors that:
[T]he paint did not exceed TCLP levels for metal so it wasn't
HW [Hazardous Waste] but the blast grit/paint chips are still
a regulated waste that will require proper containerization &
disposal through out [sic] HW facility so a line of accounting
needs to be set-up & containers ord[ er]ed in advance through
4
the facility. Gen'l guide specs section 01575 describe that
process in detail.
(R4, tab 1 at 360)
8. On 24 December 2008, and after a pre-bid site visit, the government published
Amendment No. 0001 in response to a bidder's question regarding whether the
"structural steel [on the hangers was] lead based." Although there was testimony that
paint is considered "lead based" if it contains any concentration of lead (regardless of
amount), the response in solicitation Amendment No. 0001 provided that "[for] basis of
bid assume that the paint is not lead based, but is still regulated waste. See Attachment
B.2." (R4, tab 2 at 454, Q. 11; tr. 9/143)
9. On 7 January 2009, the government issued Amendment No. 0002 to the RFP
adding a requirement that the coatings subcontractor be the Society for Protective
Coatings 1 (SSPC) QP 2 Category A certified (a certification pertaining to a contractor's
proficiency with hazardous coatings removal) (R4, tab 3 at 459, 463). Two days after
publication of Amendment No. 0002, Gaskins submitted a Request for Information (RFI)
to the contracting officer (CO) requesting clarification, stating,
3. The painting requirement for SSPC-QP 2 is a nationally
recognized program that evaluates the capabilities of
industrial paint contractors for their ability to safely remove
and properly manage hazardous coat material in the field.
According to the inspection and test reports there are no
hazardous materials present. The blasting material is to be
treated as a regulated material and not as a hazardous
material. Possibly this requirement should be eliminated?
4. Amendment #2 added an additional requirement to the QP
2 saying that the SSPC QP 2 should also be Category A
Certified. This applies to lead paint removal. Are the
inspection and test reports wrong in that there is lead paint
on the project? [Emphasis added]
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 147)
10. On 9 January 2009, Mr. Wittman (a member of the source selection board)
sent an email to Ms. Mitchell posing Gaskins' questions:
The second question I have is a result of an RFI we received
from a bidder. The current bid documents indicate that the
1
The Society for Protective Coatings was formerly the Steel Structures Painting Council.
5
Contractor should be certified per SSPC QPl and SSPC QP2
Category A. The question from the bidder is whether or not
SSPC QP2 Category A certification is really necessary for
this project since we don't have a Hazardous Waste. I
reviewed the SSPC QP2 document and it notes that it is
primarily geared towards the removal of coatings containing
lead and the Category A involves systems with engineered
ventilation systems providing negative pressure. Can you
give me any recommendations as to whether you believe this
extensive of containment is required for this project given the
testing done on the existing paint?
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 150 at 305)
11. Ms. Mitchell forwarded Mr. Wittman's email to Ms. Racine and
Ms. Julie Kaiser. She stated that if the waste was going to be non-hazardous, and going
to be a lot, she was inclined to allow the contractor to dispose of the waste off-base to
avoid the "painful process" of having to order Defense Reutilization and Marketing
Service (DRMO, later renamed to Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)) roll-off containers
for transferring waste to the on-site temporary storage facility. Ms. Mitchell also
remarked that off-site disposal had been permitted on prior projects and acknowledged
that the General Guide specification section she referred to in her prior email was
outdated, but that "Di" (Diane Racine, another Environmental Department employee)
should be able to identify the replacement specification. (App. 2d supp. R4, tab 150
at 304)
12. Ms. Racine responded explaining that the Temporary Environmental Controls
specification section:
[O]utlines exactly what the contractor will need to do to make
sure that the waste is disposed properly if it is hazardous
waste, and the Abrasive Blasting paragraph refers the
contractor back to Solid Waste Disposal if it is not hazardous
waste. We shouldn't have to add anything to the RFP.
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 150 at 304)
13. Mr. Wittman forwarded these emails back to the CO, commenting that the
government should have someone from the Environmental Department directly respond
to Gaskins' questions (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 152 at 342). Despite this suggestion, no
response was provided to Gaskins' (tr. 1/71-72, 6/216-18).
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Disposal ofAbrasive Blasting Debris
14. Removal of the existing paint on the trusses would require abrasive blasting
that would generate spent blast debris (spent debris). The spent debris consisted of a
combination of the existing paint and abrasive material used to blast the existing paint off
the trusses. There were two possible disposal sites for the spent debris, off-site at an
approved landfill or on-site through Naval Station Mayport Hazardous Waste Storage
Facility (Mayport HWSF or Part B Facility) 2 . The Naval Station possesses a Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) permit, known as a "Subpart B" or "Part B"
permit, which allows it to store hazardous waste for up to a year before final disposal at
an approved Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF) off-site (tr. 61128, 140-41,
9/7). The permit requires that all hazardous waste generated on base be processed for
disposal through the Mayport HWSF (tr. 9/14). The Mayport HWSF charges contractors
the same commodity rate for disposal of hazardous waste and nonhazardous waste
(tr. 8/147). By charging the contractor the same commodity rate regardless of the type of
waste, however, the Navy assumes the price risk related to the disposal of hazardous
waste (tr. 91100).
15. Part 2 of the solicitation, General Requirements at Section 01 57 19 .00 25,
Temporary Environmental Controls, both defined and directed how blasting spent debris
on this project would be categorized and disposed (R4, tab 1 at 133-51 ). The definition
of "Solid Waste," found in paragraph 1.2.2, expressly excluded any hazardous waste or
hazardous debris (id. at 133). "Debris" was defined at paragraph 1.2.3 in pertinent part as
"Non-hazardous solid material generated during the construction, demolition, or
renovation of a structure" (id. at 134). In contrast, "Hazardous Debris" was defined at
paragraph 1.2.4 as "debris that contains hazardous waste per 40 CFR 261." Finally,
"Regulated Waste" at paragraph 1.2 .11, was defined - separately from Hazardous Waste
- as "[t]hose solid waste that have specific additional Federal, state, or local controls for
handling, storage, or disposal." (Id. at 134-35)
16. Part 2 ofthe solicitation, Section 015719.00 25 also describes the Control
and Disposal of Solid Wastes, Hazardous Wastes, Regulated Wastes and Abrasive
Blasting (R4, tab 1at146, 148, 150-51). This part of the solicitation directs that
hazardous waste be disposed of on-site through the Mayport HWSF. Paragraph 5.3 .1,
"Hazardous Waste/Debris Management" directs that all hazardous waste be disposed of
through the Mayport HWSF (id. at 146). Likewise, a later provision of this same part of
the solicitation, paragraph 3.7, "ABRASIVE BLASTING," pertains specifically to
2
The Mayport HWSF is operated by the DLA at Naval Station Mayport. Naval Station
Mayport is a large quantity generator of hazardous waste, as that term is defined
by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). (R4, tab 1, ii 1.9.1
at 139; 40 C.F .R. part 261)
7
requirements for abrasive blasting, directs that abrasive blasting debris will be disposed
of per paragraph 3.7.2, "Disposal Requirements," which provides in pertinent part
"Hazardous waste generated from blasting operations will be managed in accordance
with paragraph entitled 'Hazardous Waste/Debris Management'"(~ 3.5.1), which directs
the contractor to dispose of all hazardous waste through the Mayport (HWSF) (id.
at 151 ). However, this part of the solicitation is internally inconsistent regarding the
disposal of the blast debris if it is not hazardous; it directs disposal of regulated waste
on-site but directs non-hazardous waste to be disposed of off-site despite the fact the
spent blast debris is both regulated and non-hazardous waste. Paragraph 3.5.1.5,
"Disposal of Regulated Wastes," requires that, "[r]egulated wastes, except for asbestos
and petroleum contaminated wastes, shall be disposed through Naval Station Mayport
HWSF and shall not be taken off Station by the Contractor" (id. at 148). In contrast
to disposal of regulated waste(~ 3.5.1.5), paragraph 3.7.2 mandates disposal of
non-hazardous abrasive blasting debris will be in accordance with the paragraph entitled,
"CONTROL AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WAS TES" (~ 3 .4) which directs the
contractor to take such waste off-site (id. at 146).
17. Part 3 of the RFP, under Project Description, also specially addressed the
disposal of the blast debris (at § F2020 1.1.) that would necessarily be created by
preparing the trusses for new paint stating it would "be treated as regulated waste and
containerized for disposal through the Navat Station Mayport hazardous waste storage
facility (HWSF)" (R4, tab 1 at 159). Likewise, section B201009, "EXTERIOR
PAINTING AND COATINGS," specified that "blast grit and paint chips" would be
treated as regulated waste in accordance with the RFP section entitled "Paint Related
Work" which states the paint is not considered hazardous waste but "the blast grit/paint
chips are a regulated waste that will require proper containerization and disposal through
the Naval Station Hazardous Waste Storage Facility (HWSF)" (id. at 164-65, 170).
18. Amendment No. 0002 to the RFP also added, Part 5, Prescriptive Technical
Specifications, Section 09 97 13. 27 (Exterior Coating of Steel Structures) (R4, tab 3
at 464). Subparagraph 3.6.6, Disposal of Used Abrasive, directed the coating contractor
to "[d]ispose of used abrasive off Government property in accordance with Federal, State,
and Local mandated regulations" (id. at 482).
Gaskins' Proposal
19. Gaskins' initial proposal, submitted on 15 January 2009, provided in pertinent
part the following statement describing how it intended to prepare the surface of the
trusses and dispose of the particles, blast grit, and debris resulting from the surface
preparation - "[ s]urface preparation and the removal of existing paint requires that the
truss be shrouded during the preparation phase and that all particles, blast grit and debris
be treated as regulated waste and containerized for disposal through the Naval Station
Mayport hazardous waste storage facility" (R4, tab 5 at 589). This language remained
8
the same through each of Gaskins' revised proposals and its Best and Final Offer (BAFO)
(id.). The proposals were evaluated by a Source Selection Board (SSB) that consisted of
three voting members: Angela Hocutt, Adam Hocutt, and Kurt Wittman (tr. 6/219,
7/204-05, 8/165). All three members of the SSB testified at trial that they understood the
statement in Gaskins' proposal about disposing of blast debris through the Mayport
HWSF to mean Gaskins would dispose of the blast debris through the Mayport HWSF,
and that they relied on that statement in recommending award to Gaskins (tr. 6/210,
7/214-16, 81166-67).
20. Mr. Frost (Gaskins) testified that he supervised Mr. Malcom Beasley, the
proposal estimator, and reviewed Gaskins' proposal before it was submitted (tr. 1/61).
Gaskins' subcontracted with DACA for the blasting and painting scope of the work and
relied upon DACA for that part of their proposal (tr. 1/72-73). Based upon DACA's
inputs, the proposal for the blasting and painting scope of the job was based upon the
understanding that this was a no lead job (tr. 1161, 71-72, 2/77, 5/245). Gaskins' final bid
incorporated DACA's bid submittal to Gaskins for the blasting and coatings scope of
work (tr. 1/72-73, 103-04). Because Amendment No. 0001 told offerors to bid the job as
involving no lead-based paint, Gaskins and DACA did not include any costs of handling
or disposing of lead-based paint in its bid. Instead, Gaskins and DACA assumed that - if
lead-based paint was discovered - the government would provide additional
compensation. (Tr. 5/51) DACA bid the blasting and coatings work at a total cost of
$424,891.00, using nine workers, and anticipated a start date of 15 August 2009, and a
finish date of20 December 2009 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 288; tr. 3/75-77). The proposal
and all revisions were signed by Mr. Gaskins (R4, tab 5 at 50 I).
21. Regarding disposal of the spent debris, DACA based its proposal on
solicitation Amendment No. 0002, § 09 07 13 .27, Part 3 .6.6, i.e., that the spent debris
would be disposed of off-site (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 128). Mr. Mike Mingle, who
prepared and submitted DACA's bid to Gaskins, testified that he read the entire RFP and
calculated DACA's price for disposing of the spent debris off-site disposal. However, he
did not remember ever communicating this to Gaskins. (Tr. 5/230, 277) The bid
submitted to Gaskins does not describe the method of disposing of the spent debris (app.
2nd supp. R4, tab 270). Mr. Frost testified it was his understanding that the section
proposing to dispose of all spent debris on-site was the result of a "cut and paste" error by
the architect-engineering firm (A&E) hired by Gaskins (tr. 5/75). Neither Mr. Gaskins
nor Mr. Beasley, who prepared the proposal, testified at the hearing.
22. Gaskins was awarded Contract No. N69450-09-C-5068 on 12 March 2009
(R4, tab 8 at 627-28). The contract completion date (CCD) was 26 June 2009 for
contract line item number (CLIN) 0001 and 7 May 2010 for CLINs 0002, 0003, and 0004
(id. at 631 ). Additionally, the contract incorporated Gaskins' technical proposal as part
of the contract documents (id. at 664). Thereafter, on 16 April 2009, Gaskins entered
9
into a subcontract with DACA to perform the paint removal and recoating requirements
of the contract (app. supp. R4, tab 101 at 895).
Surface Preparation and Coating Plans, Blasting and Coating Plans and Vacuum Plans
23. Gaskins was contractually required to submit and obtain approval of various
site specific environmental plans prior to commencing work. Pertinent to this appeal,
Gaskins (DACA) submitted various versions of a Site Specific Workplan for Surface
Preparation and Coating Application (Surface Preparation and Coating Plan), Site
Specific Environmental Plan for Blasting and Coating Activities (Blasting and Coating
Plan), and a Site Specific Vacuum Plan for Vacuuming Spent Blast Media Activities
(Vacuum Plan) for government review. Government witnesses who were involved in the
review process testified that the submittal process began in the fall of 2009 and described
the submittal process as "piecemeal," and that DACA repeatedly altered its plans and did
not adhere to the submittal review process (tr. 8/12-13). One witness testified the
submittal process was "chaotic" as a result the government had trouble tracking Gaskins'
submittals because they were often incomplete (tr. 7/234, 236-37). A review of the
record supports these witnesses' testimony and also confirms the government could not,
or did not, control the process.
24. Pertinent to this appeal, the Surface Preparation and Coating Plan specifically
addressed where the spent blasting debris would be sent for disposal. Gaskins submitted
DACA's initial Surface Preparation and Coating Plan on 15 December 2009 but this
initial draft plan did not specify the disposal location of abrasive blast media or waste
disposal (R4, tabs 78, 79 at 71, ~ 10.3.1, at 82, ~ 20.2). The CO informed Gaskins on
21 December 2009 that the plan was rejected and provided specific comments dated
17 December 2009 (R4, tab 80 at 1, 3-4). Comment No. 1, regarding section 10.3.1,
stated in pertinent part, "disposal is to be through the Mayport Part B Facility in
accordance with (iaw) SOPA(ADMIN)MYPTINST 5090.lSERIES" (id. at 3). Comment
No. 2 similarly stated: "all industrial process waste and hazardous waste is to remain
on-Base and be disposed through the Mayport Part B Facility" (id. at 4).
Subsequently, on 11 January 2010, Gaskins revised a draft Surface Preparation and
Coatings Plan stating the spent abrasive would be disposed of at the Mayport Part B
facility (R4, tab 350(g) at 32of33, ~ 20.3).
25. Thereafter, in late January 2010, DACA began taking the position that the
spent debris could be taken off base to a landfill. Mr. Mingle, DACA's regional
manager, met with government personnel including, Ms. Joann Mason,
Ms. Julie Kaiser (Moleski) 3 and Mr. David Moody, at NA VF AC's environmental office
to discuss disposal of abrasive blast waste (tr. 8/46-48).
3 Ms. Julie Kaiser's last name by the time of the hearing was Moleski. Since her name
was Kaiser during the contract, this decision will use the name Kaiser.
10
26. Mr. Mingle (DACA) was of the opinion the waste could be disposed of
off-base based upon his reading of the specification added by Amendment No. 0002 to
the RFP, which,~ 3.6.6 Disposal of Used Abrasive, states "[d]ispose of used abrasive off
Government property in accordance with Federal, State, and Local mandated regulations"
(tr. 8/46-47, 50-51). On 26 January 2010, Mr. Mingle forwarded a letter to Gaskins'
project manager, in which he referred to "our meeting on Monday, January 25 at the job
site regarding hazardous waste disposal" and stated, "[t]he owner [Navy] agrees with the
position ofDACA, Inc., that any hazardous waste will be disposed of off-site by DACA
consistent with Amendment 2, Section 09 97 13.27, Part 3.6.6. This is the specification
to which DACA bid the project." (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 128) That same day, DACA
(Mr. Mingle/David Ogletree) sent a change order request form to Gaskins asserting that
the change in disposal methods from what was specified in paragraph 3 .6.6 of
Amendment No. 0002 of the solicitation would amount to a $528,803 impact on DACA.
The description of the change referred to "comments dated 12117/2009 [presumably the
government's comments on DACA's Surface Preparation and Coating Plan] all waste to
be disposed of on-site at the Part B facility." (R4, tab 90)
27. The record is devoid of evidence corroborating Mr. Mingle's account of the
meeting or that the CO was aware of the meeting or approved Mr. Mingle's position.
Contrary to Mr. Mingle's recollections, Ms. Mason testified that she and Ms. Kaiser told
Mr. Mingle during the meeting that they understood the contract to require disposal of
abrasive blasting waste through the Mayport HWSF (tr. 8/48-49). Mr. Mingle could not
remember ever receiving any written confirmation of his position from the government
(tr. 5/268). Mr. Anderson (Gaskins) testified he never attended any meeting where a
government employee told Gaskins or DACA it was acceptable to dispose of spent debris
at an off-site facility (tr. 5/200-02). Likewise, the CO testified she could not recall
attending any meeting in January 2010 with Mr. Mingle or Mr. Anderson, had never seen
Mr. Mingle's letter to Gaskins, and never approved any off-site disposal of waste
(tr. 7/22-23).
28. Gaskins submitted a revised draft Surface Preparation and Coating
Application Plan on 1 February 2010 that stated spent abrasive debris would be "hauled
to a landfill for disposal" (R4, tab 350(h) at 32-33 of 33, ~ 20.3). This plan was followed
by another draft on 23 November 2010 which also specified disposal at a landfill but for
the first time specified a specific landfill, the Chesser Island Road Landfill in Folkston,
Georgia (R4, 350(n) at 26 of26 ~ 19.2.1). The government provided comments, on
Gaskins "Revised CWP & ABP for Hangar 1552" on 1February2011 stating:
11
Page 26 of 26, Plan states: "The spent abrasive will then be characterized,
Section 19.2.1, manifested, and transported to Chesser Island Road Landfill in
Waste Folkston, GA ... "
Management and
Disposal All spent blast media regardless of characterization (i.e.
hazardous and/or non-hazardous) is to be disposed through
the Mayport HWSF. NO blast media is to be disposed at
the Chesser Island Road Landfill in Folkston, GA ... "
(R4, tab 350(a) at 22)
29. Despite the plans submitted the same month, on 9 February 2010, that
specified disposal at a landfill off-site, DACA (Mr. Mingle) submitted a Blasting and
Coating Plan which stated both hazardous waste and regulated waste were to be
"managed" by the Mayport HWSF (R4, tab 95 at 3, 8). On 10 February 2010,
Brian Price (NAVFAC SE) emailed Gaskins, copying the CO, Ms. Bushey, "[i]n an
effort to move forward, the Blasting and Coating Plan is approved, w/ comments. Since
it appears the comments require pages to be inserted into our copies, please email those
pages to us." (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 157 at 1, tab 158 at 1) The forwarding email
referenced "Site Plan Submittal #4." Comments are included at that Rule 4 tab but they
do not mention disposal or reference which revision the comments are associated with.
Additionally, the draft plan is not included in the file with the comments. (Id.)
Consequently, it is impossible to tell whether this copy of the plan was ever approved.
30. The record includes an 11March2010 email forwarding revision 6 of
DACA's site specific workplan to the government (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 159 at 374). A
copy of a site specific workplan is included in the record behind the email purporting to
be the attachment. This plan specifies disposal off-site. (Id. at 406,, 20.3) However,
this plan is dated some seven months later (22 October 2010) than the email ( 11 March
2010) and does not identify a revision number (id. at 375). Again, it is impossible to tell
whether this plan was approved.
31. On 30 March 2010, Gaskins forwarded DACA's Revised Vacuum Plan to the
CO (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 277). DACA's approved Vacuum Plan does not specifically
address disposing of waste off-base. The Vacuum Plan included an email from Mr. Price
to Mr. Ryals (DACA), on 4 June 2010, stating: "Your Vacuum Plan is approved w/ one
comment" which related to labeling the containers to be disposed (id. at 1119). The
Vacuum Plan includes a map of the base labeled "HAUL ROUTE" indicating a route
from the work site to the "CONTRACTOR'S GATE" (id. at 1121).
32. The Vacuum Plan submittal also included a revised Blasting and Coating Plan
and a Surface Preparation and Coating Application Plan, which were specifically revised
to indicate disposal off-base (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 277 at 1126, 3708). DACA included
12
a cover page to the included Surface Preparation and Coating Application Plan that states
that one revision has been made to the plan "paragraph 20.3" (id. at 1126). Paragraph
20.3 states in pertinent part, "[t]he spent abrasive will then be characterized, manifested
and hauled to Chesser Island Road Landfill in Folkston, GA by EnviroVac Industrial &
Environmental Services for disposal" (id. at 1158). Likewise, DACA made one revision
to the Blasting and Coating Plan adding a paragraph to the section addressing "Hazardous
Waste Prohibition" stating in pertinent part, "Once the spent blast media is tested and
passed it will be profiled, manifested and hauled to Chesser Island Road Landfill in
Folkston GA by EnviroVac Industrial & Environmental Services" (id. at 1161, 1167).
Perhaps consistent with disposal off-base, the plan also includes an attachment of a map
with a designated "HAUL ROUTE" (id. at 1171 ). However, the section on "Disposal
Documentation for Hazardous and Regulated Waste," as in the original submittal, states
"not applicable because it will be managed by NS Mayport's HWSF" (id. at 1164). We
find it is impossible to determine from the record whether the government ever approved
the specific revisions to these plans.
33. We find that most of the plans in the record lack a date or fail to indicate
whether they are revised submittals. It is almost impossible to correlate government
comments with specific submitted plans. This problem is compounded by the fact that
most submittals and government approvals and comments were forwarded by emails with
attachments. Most attachments are not included in the record, only the forwarding email.
This results in making it impossible to correlate government comments/approvals with a
specific submittal. In those few instances where we can correlate the comments with a
specific plan, the government consistently required on-site disposal.
Steel Profile Issue: Additional Layer ofIntermediate Paint/Modification No. (Mod.) P00003
34. Shortly after starting its work in March 2010, DACA discovered that the
existing profiles of the trusses were deeper than indicated by the Specifications (R4,
tab 105). The contract specified a coating thickness to be achieved after the application
of all coating layers. The test blasting indicated the standard three-coat system specified
by the solicitation and adopted by the Designer of Record would not achieve the required
thickness. (Tr. 8/149-150) The CO suspended work on 31March2010 and by 26 May
2010, both the government and Gaskins agreed to resolve the steel profile issue by the
application of an additional intermediate layer of paint (R4, tab 115 at 2; tr. 8/150-51).
35. On 16 June 2010, the government internally agreed that Gaskins' proposal,
requesting $508,979 and assuming a 5 July 2010, re-start date, was "fair and reasonable."
(app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 173; R4, tab 118). On 3 August 2010, the government issued
Gaskins a notice to proceed and stated a modification was forthcoming. The email
explained the government agreed with Gaskins' and DACA's costs for the new work and
application of the intermediate coating application ($249,175) but not the time and cost
regarding the associated delay. As a result, the modification would include an extension
13
of 34 working days to apply the additional layer of intermediate paint (thereby extending
the contract completion date by 53 calendar days from 30 July 2010 to 20 September
2010) until the delay and associated costs could be negotiated. (R4, tab 130)
36. Unilateral Mod. P00003 was issued on 30 September 2010 increasing the
price by $466,988.36 and adding 159 calendar days to the schedule (R4, tab 11 ). This
amount was less than Gaskins' proposal of $508,979, which assumed that the notice to
proceed would be issued a month earlier than it was (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 173; R4,
tab 118 at 1).
3 7. The combination of new work and delay days added to the contract also
extended the contract completion period over a second Christmas holiday not anticipated
by the original schedule or the solicitation (R4, tab 11; app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 252).
However, Mod. P00003 counts the holiday period as part of the time in which Gaskins
would be permitted to perform the additional work (tr. 7/69).
Perry Roofing
38. During the performance of CLIN 0001 in 2009, Gaskins' roofing
subcontractor, Perry Roofing, made dozens of penetrations in the hangar roof to facilitate
installation of temporary shoring (tr. 8/41-42). Mr. Richard Erdman, Perry Roofing's
senior field superintendent, testified Perry Roofing's original plan was to start work in the
fall of 2009 and complete its work in May 2010 (tr. 3/56-57). Instead, Perry Roofing
could perform only minor work prior to November 2010 and lower roof work
(constituting approximately 20% of its scope) between November 2010 and July 2011
(tr. 3/59-60). Perry Roofing did not complete its scope until January 2012 (tr. 3/64). The
start-and-stop periods resulted in Perry Roofing incurring greater administrative costs
than it could foresee prior to execution of its subcontract (tr. 3/60-61). Mr. Erdman also
testified that although the government allotted Perry Roofing a small staging area -
which permitted Perry Roofing to purchase, store, and invoice for 20% of the required
materials - Perry was nonetheless unable to purchase, store, or invoice for the remaining
80% of required materials until a later point in time, after expiration of its purchasing
window and during a time of increased materials costs (tr. 1/60-64; app. 2nd supp. R4,
tab 309). Contradicting Mr. Erdman's testimony, Ms. Mason testified that Perry asked
permission to store roofing materials at the project site in February 2011, which was
granted and the government paid for the materials to be stored. The materials constituted
80% of the materials required for the roof and were paid for during February 2011.
(Tr. 8/42-46) The vendor notices related to Mr. Erdman's reference to increased material
costs were not effective until 1 March 2011 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 309).
14
Discovery of Defective Welds on the Trusses
39. CLIN 0002 of the contract required Gaskins to repair external structural
trusses involving welding certain truss members to strengthen old welds that were failing
(R4, tab I at 3). Under the contract, Gaskins was responsible for inspecting and testing
the welding work for quality control (R4, tab 352 at 52, ~ 3.2). Per the contract, Gaskins
chose to contract with a third-party, certified weld inspector (CWI), Ellis & Associates,
Inc. (Ellis), to verify that the newly installed welds met contract requirements.
40. On 12 April 2010, Mr. Brian Thomas, an independent "NACE"4 (coatings)
inspector hired by DACA, forwarded DACA (Mr. Page Wright) a summary of his
observations that some welds on the trusses appeared to be defective (R4, tab 108 at 3-4).
Mr. Wright documented Mr. Thomas' observations in two reports which he forwarded to
DACA and Gaskins the following day (R4, tab 110 at I; tr. 2/247-48). Mr. Wright
testified that Gaskins verbally responded advising him that no corrective action would be
taken because the government had already "bought off' on the welds. He documented
this conversation in a Work Condition Report and then forwarded it to DACA's corporate
office. (R4, tab I 09; tr. 2/251-52)
41. Neither Gaskins nor DACA notified the government about Mr. Thomas'
concerns regarding the defective welds (tr. 719, 8/29). Additionally, the government's
ability to independently discover the defects in the welds was hindered because Gaskins'
CWI, Ellis, had previously submitted reports to the government approving the same
welds and in early 2010 the government implemented a safety "stand down," unrelated to
the welding, prohibiting NAVF AC SE employees from climbing scaffolding (where they
might have detected the defective welds) until they had undergone retraining in fall
protection (tr. 8/29-30).
42. The government only learned of Mr. Thomas' concerns a month or two later
when Ms. Mason discovered Mr. Wright's reports among documents Gaskins submitted
to the government in support of a request for additional time relating to the steel profile
issue (tr. 7/8, 8/28-30, 154-55). Upon examining the reports, Ms. Mason inspected the
trusses, identified defective welds and prepared a report for the CO reflecting her findings
(R4, tab 121; tr. 8/32).
43. On 29 June 2010, the CO notified Gaskins' president, Mr. Larry Gaskins, of
the defective welds and demanded the removal of the Gaskins employee who was
4
The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) International is an
organization that sets standards for inspection in the protective coating industry
and provides certification programs in various areas, including a coating
certification program.
15
functioning as its quality control manager at the time 5 (R4, tab 124). Gaskins responded
by disputing that any welds were defective, but proposed to have Ellis appoint an
independent certified welding inspector. Ellis identified Mr. John Champion, who in
2009 had previously inspected unrelated welds on the project. 6 (R4, tab 125)
Mr. Champion testified that when he arrived to investigate the concerns raised by the
government, he was instructed by Gaskins to inspect the truss apexes, which he had not
previously inspected (i.e. the new welds performed by Garrison Steel, Gaskins' steel
subcontractor) (tr. 7/130-32). Gaskins did not offer any evidence to refute
Mr. Champion's testimony that he was told to inspect only welding performed by
Garrison Steel.
44. Mr. Champion found that on each of the 34 truss apexes there were one or
more welds that did not comply with the weld acceptance criteria published by the
American Welding Society (AWS). Defects he observed included, but were not limited
to, rolls, cracks, and undercut and undersized welds. (Tr. 7II 07) He testified that each
one of these types of defects, as well as others, could result in failure of the affected
welds (tr. 7/109). He documented his findings in reports and contemporaneous
photographs that he provided to both Ellis and Gaskins (R4, tab 352 at 97-190 (reports),
tab 355(b) (photographs); tr. 7/94-95). During his testimony, Mr. Champion described at
length the defective welds depicted in several of his photographs, generally
characterizing the welds as "extremely bad" (tr. 7/164-65). Mr. Champion also testified
that no one at Gaskins ever expressed any disagreement to him about the conclusions in
his reports (tr. 7/148).
45. Michael Herring, a NA VF AC senior structural engineer with 36 years of
experience, who was qualified as an expert in structural engineering, testified at trial that
the defects observed by Mr. Champion were located on structural welds, i.e. welds
designed to support a structural load (tr. 7/179). Mr. Herring expressly refuted earlier
testimony of Harry Frost and Tim Anderson, of Gaskins, that the defective welds were
"non-structural" and that rework was only necessary to ensure the quality of the coating
application (tr. 7/198-99 (Herring), 1/200-0 I (Frost)). Mr. Herring also testified that if
the defects documented by Mr. Champion had not been discovered and corrected, the
welds could have failed, resulting in a "major catastrophe" by causing the roof to collapse
on people and equipment inside the building (tr. 7/202). We find Mr. Herring's
testimony more credible than that of Mr. Frost and Mr. Anderson.
5
The removal demand was issued per the "Materials and Workmanship" clause,
52.236-5(c) (R4, tab 124 at 3).
6 The government initially hired its own welding inspector but after a short period of
concurrent inspections developed sufficient confidence in Mr. Champion to move
forward solely with him (tr. 8/156).
16
Hazardous Waste Confirmed in Spent Blast Debris
46. On 12 October 2010, DACA provided Gaskins the analytical results for the
first group of spent blast debris. Gaskins provided the same to the government on
13 October 2010. (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 92) Ms. Kaiser (the Mayport hazardous waste
program manager), confirmed that the results were "[n]on-haz, but the '2nd Analysis of
spent abrasive Truss 2' has HIGH chromium (4.0 mg/Land 5.0 mg/Lis HW). I need to
verify with Cheryl [Mitchell] that she is ok sending off base." (App. 2nd supp. R4,
tab 185) On 14 October 20 I 0, Ms. Kaiser sent an email to Ms. Mitchell asking the
following question in the subject line: "Do you have a problem with 4.0mg/L TCLP
Chromium Black Beauty blast grit going off as NONHAZ???" (app. 2nd supp. R4,
tab 188). That same day at 11 :06 AM, Ms. Kaiser sent the following message to
Mr. Brian Price (the CO's representative) and Ms. Joann Mason (the CO's engineering
technician):
Spoke with Cheryl regarding the analysis. Additional
information from the contractor is required for a decision on
disposal.
1- Where does the contractor intend to dispose the blast
media?
IA- Chester Island road landfill, Permit #024-006D PO Box
128 Folkston Ga. 31537
2- Will the contractor be completing a waste profile at the
disposal facility for Env. review and signature)?
2A- Yes, once the blast media is delivered to landfill, a
manifest stating the amount. A waste profile will then be sent
to you and Joann Mason for review.
3- How many tons of blast grit were generated for trusses
4-6?
3A- Approx 10-12 tons. This is for trusses 4 and half of truss 5.
4- Has the contractor already blasted trusses 1-3? If yes,
where did this blast grit go for disposal?
4A- In truss group #1 only truss #1 and the apex's on trusses
#2  have been blasted. No disposal at this time.
5- Did the contract specify disposal through the Mayport
HWSF?
5A- This has not been determined Hazardous material Per the
TCLP (see attached results)
17
Unfortunately, I will be on leave from tomorrow through next
Tuesday (returning 10/20/10). If you can get this information
to me today, I will try to have an answer before I leave.
Thanks, Julie
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 186 at 464-65) Ms. Kaiser then forwarded this entire exchange
to Mr. David Moody (a Gaskins Superintendent) at 1:24 PM (id. at 464).
4 7. Separately at 1: 14 PM, Ms. Mason emailed Ms. Kaiser the following answer
to her questions:
Item# 1 - landfill Folkston Georgia
Item # 2 - assume is required.
Item # 3 - Contractor does not know the weight at this time,
will provide upon delivery to the landfill/or estimated until
turned in.
Item # 4 - response is the contractor has not blasted trusses
1-3, with exception of the trusses for the welding
inspection/corrections.
Item # 5 - Media is allowed to be disposed off-site if it is
non-hazardous.
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 190 at 490)
48. Ms. Mitchell testified that waste disposal requires a waste manifest to
maintain a chain of custody throughout the disposal process. This document provides the
government with notice of the circumstances of the disposal and an opportunity to
approve or disapprove the disposal. Normally, at Mayport, this document would be filled
out and signed by an employee in the environmental office. (Tr. 6/151-52) However,
these procedures were not followed in this case. Without notice of approval from the
government, Envirovac (under contract to DACA) disposed of the first batch (two
containers) of spent blast debris off-site at the Chesser Island Landfill on 18 October
2010 (R4, tab 155). Mr. Wright (DACA) improperly signed the manifests in lieu of the
environmental office. The manifest and the associated documents also misidentified the
waste generator as DACA, rather than Mayport, identified the point of contact as the
contractor (rather than a government employee required by the contract) and
misidentified the waste as "sandblast media" (tr. 9/38-40). The government did not learn
of the disposal until later on 22 October 2010 when Gaskins emailed the disposal tickets
to the environmental office (app. 2nd supp. R4, tabs 197-98).
49. At 1:02 PM on 20 October 20 I 0, after returning from leave, Ms. Kaiser
provided the following response, directly to Gaskins: "I am good with Che[ss]er Island
18
Road Landfill (note the spelling) .... With respect to question 5. I need to read the
language in your contract. While the waste is technically non-hazardous, it came close to
HW levels for chromium." (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 192 at 495) At 2:44 PM that same
day, Ms. Mason responded-with a "cc" to the CO, Ms. Angela Hocutt, 7 stating "Team,
Please see the enclosed amendment 0002 page that specifically allows for off-site
disposal." Attached to Ms. Mason's email was paragraph 3.6.6 of the "Exterior Coating
of Steel Structures" specification section, as added to the RFP as part of Amendment
0002. (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 195 at 521)
50. Two minutes after receiving Ms. Mason's email attaching paragraph 3.6.6,
Ms. Kaiser provided, "Joann, Thanks, that was what I needed. Please be aware that the
chromium level is high, but is below the HW limit for chromium. However, Chesser
Island Road Landfill does have the right to reject acceptance of the waste (I don't think
they will, but it is conceivable)." (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 192 at 495)
51. Ms. Hocutt testified that Ms. Mason did not have authority to change the
terms of the contract. Ms. Hocutt's testimony establishes that she read the email and
disagreed with Ms. Kaiser and Ms. Mason's representations that the contract allowed
disposal off-site but did not take any action to correct the statements made to the
contractor. Her explanation for remaining silent was that at the time she did not think she
had an action because she expected the contractor to request a variance to the contract.
She also understood the email was directed to Gaskins as well as the government
personnel. (Tr. 7/4 7-50)
52. On 3 December 2010, DACA received the testing results for the next group of
spent blast debris, which Gaskins forwarded to the government on 6 December 2010.
The government characterized the results as Hazardous Waste, based on the chromium
value of 9.6 mg/L (almost twice the Hazardous Waste threshold of 5.0 mg/L). Upon
receiving the results, Ms. Kaiser found both the results and the sampling techniques used
by DACA and its third-party laboratory to be valid. (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 202)
53. On 14 December 2010, Gaskins sent a follow-up letter to the government
requesting direction for how to proceed in light of the chromium discovery (R4, tab 194).
On 17 December 2010, the CO responded by email to Gaskins' 14 December letter that
the contract required Gaskins to dispose of "all particles, blast grit chips, and debris"
through the Mayport HWSF. In addition, the CO directed that that no additional blasting
could be performed until DACA submitted another site specific sampling plan to replace
its previously approved, stating, "It has also come to our attention that the required waste
determination has not been properly performed. Per Part 2, Section 07 57 19.00 25,
Paragraph 1.5 LABORATORY ANALYSIS." (R4, tab 19)
7 Ms. Hocutt's name at the time of the email was Angela Bushey.
19
54. On 7 January 2011, Gaskins and the CO participated in a discussion
concerning the discovery of hazardous waste (R4, tab 203). In an email sent directly to
Gaskins' personnel and summarizing the meeting, the CO provided that she:
Reiterated email of December 17th stating that Part 3 and
[the] contractor's technical proposal indicated spent media
would be disposed of as regulated waste through Part B so
that portion of the effort was not considered a change.
However, is [sic] material did re-test as hazardous using new
approved sample plan and having representative results, the
difference in the containment and PPE required would be a
change provided that it wasn't the virgin media causing the
hazardous material results.
(R4, tab 203 at 32175) Also in an email dated 7 January 2011, Ms. Mason confirmed that
DACA re-tested the virgin media (i.e., the abrasive material without any addition of
existing paint) and the virgin media results were non-hazardous (id. at 58144).
55. Gaskins responded by letter on 19 January 2011 questioning the CO's
direction and informed the CO it had already disposed of two containers of spent blast
media off-site (R4, tab 20 at 720-21 ).
56. On 24 January 2011, the CO authorized the blasting efforts to proceed, based
upon the fact DACA's revised Site Specific Abrasive Sampling Plan was in the
government review process (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 214).
57. The CO responded to Gaskins' 19 January 2011 letter on 27 January 2011 and
again directed Gaskins to dispose of spent blast media at Mayport's HWSF (R4, tab 22).
Mr. Joiner (DACA) testified that the on-site rates, during DACA's performance,
exceeded what DACA paid for Envirovac to directly dispose of the waste at an off-site
landfill (tr. 3/95-96).
58. On 2 February 2011, Gaskins notified the CO that Gaskins had taken six
additional samples that when tested indicated "extremely high levels of chromium." The
letter continued stating:
The RFP indicated that chromium levels in the existing
coatings were below the action level. ... [T]he attached test
results conflict with the RFP, therefore ... please consider this
as notice of a differing site condition .. ..
Additionally, since Paragraph (a) of FAR Clause 52.236-2
requires that we notify you 'before the conditions are
20
disturbed,' we will suspend all surface preparation activities
until we receive direction from you on how to proceed.
(R4, tab 24)
59. On 17 February 2011, the CO responded to Gaskins' 2 February 2011 notice
of a differing site condition explaining that, regardless of the TCLP test results, the
solicitation required that all paint removal debris, whether hazardous or regulated, be
treated as regulated waste and disposed of at Mayport's HWSF, which would be the same
cost under either circumstance (R4, tab 26).
60. Gaskins submitted four claims between 11 March and 3 May 2011 (R4,
tabs 25, 30, 33, 34). On 9 November 2011, Gaskins submitted a consolidated claim, on
behalf of itself and its subcontractors, seeking $6,225 ,23 5 .82 resulting from the discovery
of hazardous materials, as well as other impacts (R4, tab 36 at 1111, 1121). On 2 January
2012, the government acknowledged receipt of Gaskins' claim and provided notice the
CO would issue a contracting officer's final decision (COFD) by 30 June 2012 (app.
supp. R4, ex. 3). The CO did not issue a COFD by 30 June 2012 and Gaskins appealed
the CO's deemed denial to the Board on 11 February 2013. We docketed their appeal as
ASBCA No. 58550.
Worker Protection/Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Environmental Containment
61. Mr. Mingle (DACA) testified regarding the impact the discovery of high
levels of chromium in the spent blast debris had on DACA. He testified that DACA was
required to dispose of its previously approved personal protective equipment (PPE) as a
Hazardous Waste, due to the hazardous, abrasive debris residue contaminating the PPE.
Because the PPE was now classified as a Hazardous Waste, DACA could not reuse the
PPE, as it had originally planned to do. Instead, DACA was required to continually
dispose of the PPE at Mayport's on-site hazardous waste storage facility, at a cost, and
purchase new PPE. (Tr. 5/258-59) Mr. Frost (Gaskins) testified that the delay from
December 17th through January 24th caused by the CO's directive that DACA submit
another sampling plan to replace its previously approved sampling plan, and the
inefficiency of using the DLA-provided roll-off containers, required DACA to increase
its workforce from the as-bid 9 workers to - at times - up to 20 workers, in an attempt to
keep up. Each of these new workers needed to be outfitted with PPE. (Tr. 3/97-99)
Mr. Hames (DACA) testified that DACA erected a second containment for its workers to
remove the PPE (outside of the primary containment) because the dust from workers'
PPE could not be released beyond the containment and, as a result, workers were not
permitted to remove their PPE within the containment (tr. 21127).
62. Mr. Mitchell Blum provided an expert report, a supplemental report
incorporating testimony provided at the hearing, and testified during the hearing as a
21
government expert witness qualified in Construction Health and Safety and Hazardous
Material Management (R4, tabs 4l(a), 4l(b); tr. 9/125-52). His report specifically
addressed alleged changes in required level of containment and worker protection
resulting from the discovery of elevated levels of chromium in the spent abrasive waste
(R4, tab 4l(b) at GOV4-12, iii! 2.1, 4.0). His overall conclusion was that the discovery of
elevated levels of chromium in the spent debris did not change the required level of
worker protection or containment.
Worker Protection
63. Mr. Blum opined that, contrary to Gaskins and DACA's claims and
testimony, the level of worker protection is not determined by the level of hazardous
waste found in the spent abrasive waste or by the tests (the TCLP test results) included in
the solicitation regarding the level of heavy metals in the paint. The level of worker
protection for this project was controlled by OSHA regulations and the USACE in
EM 3 85-1-1. Those regulations do not set any minimum levels for metals in paint at
which a project meets any criteria as a "lead" or other metals "project." Instead, the
level of worker protection is determined by the level of exposure indicated by exposure
monitoring during performance. (R4, tab 1 at 93-94, tab 41(b) at GOV9)
64. Internal DACA emails establish that DACA understood this in February 2011.
On 6 February 2011, Mr. Gram asked Mr. Morgan, "What you set up with the CIH was
based on the original two TCLP readings. Now that we have 5 of 6 with Chromium and
such high levels, does that change the need for a different setup?" Mr. Morgan
responded the next day stating, "The TCLP tests are irrelevant. If there is a suspected
hazard, you must follow protocol until you can prove there is not a hazard. Air
monitoring is used to determine if there is no risk to the employees. TCLP is for waste
stream determination." (R4, tab 221 at 2) Mr. Anderson (Gaskins) also recognized that
worker protection was not determined from TCLP tests in a February of 2011 letter to
Mr. Joyner (R4, tab 232).
65. Mr. Blum's report also noted that Gaskins and DACA recognized the
requirement for exposure monitoring prior to the discovery of the elevated levels of
chromium in the spent debris. Gaskins' Safety, Health & Accident Prevention Plan,
dated 7 May 2009 and its Abrasive Blasting Plan acknowledged that "[a]ir sampling will
be conducted during the initial phase of the project to determine the presence of toxic air
contaminants commonly contained in industrial coatings to include RCRA Metals."
(R4, tab 4l(b) at GOV137, ii 1.3)
66. However, worker exposure monitoring was not conducted at the start of the
project. On 18 November 2010 DACA's project Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
stated, "Air sampling for RCRA metals has not been completed by PIHS" (R4, tab 4l(b)
at GOV145, § 1.3). Mr. Blum's report indicates a 3 March 2011 email to DACA
22
regarding air sampling results appears to be the first record of worker exposure
monitoring conducted on the site (id. at GOV 10, -149).
67. Additionally, Mr. Blum's report directly contradicted Gaskins and DACA's
assertions that the level of chromium required changes in PPE (R4, tab 41 (b)
at GOVl0-12). His review disclosed Gaskins' Safety, Health & Accident Prevention
Plan dated 7 May 2009, along with all subsequent submittals by DACA indicated the
level of worker protection required and the level of respiratory protection for the
abrasive blaster did not change, nor did the level of personal protective equipment (id.
at GOVlO).
68. Mr. Blum's conclusions related to worker protection are summarized as
follows:
OSHA and the USACE EM 385-1-1 require the contractor to
conduct an assessment as to the hazards of the job and
determine the level of PPE. I believe that the initial level of
PPE as selected by both Gaskin and DACA, and maintained
all the way through Mansfield Industrial, was adequate for
the workers on this project. In fact, the level of worker
protection used on this project is similar to most of my
current projects involving lead or other recognized health
hazards to the workers. What Gaskins and DACA failed to
do in the way of worker protection was to conduct initial,
appropriate air monitoring of their workers, provide proper
training for its employees and conduct the appropriate
medical testing.
(R4, tab 4l(b) at GOV13)
69. Mr. Blum did not express an opinion regarding the need to hire more
employees (and PPE) resulting from the alleged delay from 17 December through
24 January caused by the CO's directive that DACA submit another sampling plan to
replace its previously-approved sampling plan and the inefficiency of using the
DLA-provided roll-off containers.
Containment
70. DACA notified Gaskins by letter on 28 April 2011 that a change in
containment would be required because of the presence of heavy metals, specifically,
from a Class 2 to a Class 1 containment (R4, tab 304). Additionally, Mr. Hames testified
the secondary containment was also required for transferring the waste from the
23
Envirovac vacuum boxes to the DLA-containers provided by the government for DACA
use after the discovery of Hazardous Waste (tr. 2/164).
71. Mr. Blum's report explains that SSPC Guide 6 does not dictate the level of
containment required but instead is an industry guide on how to construct a containment to
meet criteria established by the owner (here, the government) (R4, tab 4l(b) at GOVS).
The contract, by Amendment No. 0002, § 09 93.37 ~ 3.5.1 required the contractor to
design a containment system to meet the requirements of SSPC Guide 6, Class 2 (R4,
tab 3 at 479, ~ 3.5.1). SSPC Guide 6, Class 2A and Class lA containment both require
negative pressure to be maintained throughout the use of the containment (R4, tab 41 (b)
at GOV6). Additionally Mr. Blum opined that, based upon his review of the Gaskins' and
DACA's submitted plans, there was no intention of meeting the SSPC Guide 6 Class 2
containment requirements (id. at GOV7).
72. Mr. Blum did not address Mr. Hames' testimony regarding the requirement
for a secondary containment for transferring the waste from the Envirovac vacuum boxes
to the DLA-containers provided by the government for DACA use after the discovery of
Hazardous Waste.
Directed Use ofDLA - Provided Containers
73. The government directed Gaskins and DACA to use only DLA-provided
containers for transferring the waste to the Mayport HWSF (R4, tab 197). The
government then informed Gaskins that the Mayport HWSF was unable to provide DLA
boxes or accept third-party vacuum boxes (R4, tab 254). As a result of the government's
direction, DACA transferred the spent blast debris from the Envirovac vacuum boxes to
HWSF supplied roll-off containers. Mr. Wright (DACA) testified that the on-site facility
did not have containers readily available and, to avoid even further delays, DACA
transferred the material to the available Envirovac boxes while it waited for available
DLA containers. (Tr. 2/163-64) In April 2011, Ms. Mason was informed that the
Mayport HWSF "will not deliver anymore roll-offs [containers] until the (2) on-site
[containers] are turned in and it may take 15 days before they can replenish the roll-off."
This resulted in limiting DACA to storing two DLA roll offs at the worksite at any given
time and that the pickup and drop off services (provided by the government) could be
delayed by up to 15 days. (R4, tab 281) .
DACA 's Termination and Settlement Negotiations
74. On 7 October 2010, DACA's attorney emailed Gaskins' attorney, Mr. Haire,
copying Gaskins (Mr. Joiner and Mr. Ogletree) complaining that DACA's progress was
being impeded by Gaskins' welding subcontractor who was performing work in the same
area as DACA, stating, "DACA cannot absorb the cost of this interference" and "DACA
will be financially ruined" ifthe situation is not corrected (R4, tab 145). The email also
24
stated that DACA had already spent $100,000 while only performing 1% of the work.
DACA again complained to Gaskins on 8 October 2010 about the interference caused by
the welding contractor (R4, tab 146). Gaskins responded that same day with a letter
taking the position that DACA should have anticipated the actions of the welding
subcontractor as part of the required scope of the job (R4, tab 147).
75. On 17 November 2010, Gaskins issued a cure notice to DACA, citing
DACA's failure to maintain the schedule it submitted to Gaskins (R4, tabs 176). DACA
responded on 19 November 2010 acknowledging the schedule slippage but blamed the
delays upon defective welding work by Gaskins' welding subcontractor, Garrison Steel
(R4, tab 178 at 16540). Subsequently, on 22 November 2010, Gaskins issued a second
cure notice to DACA (R4, tab 182). DACA submitted a notice of claim letter to Gaskins
on 7 December 2010 seeking compensation for and a time extension resulting from
interference and delays caused by Gaskins' welding subcontractor, Garrison Steel (app.
supp. R4, tab 27).
76. Gaskins notified the government on 2 February 2011 after heavy metals were
discovered in the paint on the trusses in early February 2011 (R4, tab 24). Thereafter,
DACA also submitted numerous claim letters to Gaskins seeking compensation for the
heavy metals discovered on the trusses. By 7 March 2011 DACA had submitted three
letters to Gaskins with estimates of the impact of the change pressing Gaskins to submit
their claim to the government (app. supp. R4, tab 37). By April 2011, DACA informed
its surety of the issues described above, and DACA's surety notified Gaskins on 28 April
2011 that it was prepared to revoke DACA's performance bond for a "cardinal change"
(app. supp. R4, tab 53 at 486; tr. 1/91-92).
77. On 5 May 2011, the government notified Gaskins that it was concerned about
Gaskins' ability to meet the current contract completion date and directed Gaskins to
provide an explanation how it would meet its contract obligations (R4, tab 311 at 2).
Gaskins responded on 16 May 2011 notifying the government that it was in talks with
several potential subcontractors to supplement or replace DACA (R4, tab 315 at 2).
78. Internal government communications establish the CO and her team were
aware ofDACA's claims against Gaskins but not involved in the resolution of the dispute
between Gaskins and DACA. Gaskins forwarded an email to the CO's attention with the
subject "Change to work hours and meeting request" on 5 May 2011. (App. 2nd supp.
R4, tab 249) The CO was puzzled why she was the recipient of this email and forwarded
it to her team. Although the attachment is not in the record, the context of internal
government email chain indicates part of the attachment related to the dispute between
Gaskins and DACA. The information was passed up the management chain and
Ms. Butler informed LCDR LeBeau that,
25
We 'have' read and understood, this 1st surfaced (to us) at
last week's QC mtg when DACA brought this up and was
info' d he was to take this matter up directly with Prime
(LCG), LCG is responsible to work this out with their sub, if
they cannot reach agreement they need to get another
contractor in to take over for DACA. The Government
cannot directly solve the issue with DACA. Gov re enforced
that at last week's Mtg. Sandra and I are conf calling Tim to
find out their course of action.
(Id.) Later, on 18 May 2011, LCDR LeBeau informed the CO and her team that
Mr. Anderson (Gaskins) told him of DACA's claims against Gaskins and there would be
an upcoming meeting between Gaskins and DACA to resolve DACA's future on the
contract (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 250).
79. In May 2011, DACA's representatives, Gaskins' representatives, Gaskins'
parent company's representatives, legal counsel for both DACA and Gaskins, and
DACA's surety met to discuss potential solutions to address the situation (tr. 1/93;
3/104-05). On 19 May 2011, Gaskins and DACA agreed to terminate DACA's
subcontract for convenience. Pursuant to the Termination Agreement, Gaskins agreed to
compensate DACA for the reasonable and allowable costs (as judged by FAR and
Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) standards) of its actual performance and
demobilization. (R4, tab 36 at 1171) Mr. Frost testified that Gaskins decided to terminate
DACA:
Because it became evident that, DACA's a small company,
and with the additional cost and requirements that the job was
piling up on, they could not, they couldn't, we felt they
wouldn't be able to finish the job on time, certainly, and
maybe not at all.
We thought it was in the best interest of the project to
terminate them for convenience, pay them their reasonable
costs, as it says here, and then get somebody else to finish the
work.
(Tr. 1/94)
80. Mr. Frost and Mr. Anderson spoke with Ms. Sandra Shelton, the CO, on
20 May 2011 and informed her that Gaskins had severed ties with DACA and DACA
would begin demobilizing the next week. Ms. Shelton forwarded this information to
Ms. Butler that same day. (R4, tab 317) DACA began demobilizing on 20 May 2011
and was completely demobilized from the work site by 31 May 2011, having completed
26
only approximately 15% of its scope of work at the time of the termination agreement
(tr. 6/43-44; app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2011 ).
81. On 1 June 2011, the government issued a cure notice to Gaskins stating that it
considered Gaskins' removal ofDACA to be a serious breach creating a work stoppage
and delay (R4, tab 321 at 2). Gaskins responded by letter on 3 June 2011 informing the
government that it would replace DACA with Mansfield Industrial (Mansfield) (R4,
tab 326). Gaskins then contracted with Mansfield to complete the remainder ofDACA's
scope of the work. Mansfield began to mobilize on 22 June 2011 and began work by
28 June 2011 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2148). Mansfield completed the work by
24 October 2011, three days ahead of its projected completion date of27 October 2011
(R4, tab 39A at 17 of 22).
82. DACA provided Gaskins with its settlement proposal of its incurred costs for
performing the work (tr. 1195). Gaskins reviewed DACA's submittal, found the costs too
high and told DACA to scrub their numbers and resubmit them. After DACA
resubmitted its costs and Gaskins again rejected them, DACA served Gaskins with a
demand for arbitration and filed for arbitration on 13 September 2011. (Tr. 1195-97; R4,
tab 334) Thereafter, Gaskins and DACA entered into arbitration over a 12-14 month
period culminating in a settlement requiring Gaskins pay DACA a fixed amount and
agreeing to submit the agreed fixed amount plus the remainder ofDACA's claimed
damages in a certified claim to the government (R4, tab 316).
83. On 9 November 2011, while still in settlement negotiations with DACA,
Gaskins submitted a certified claim to the government requesting $6,225,235.82 and a
time extension of 250.5 calendar days as a result of encountering hazardous materials in
the coatings on the trusses, constituting a differing site condition (R4, tab 36 at 1112,
1118, 1124).
84. On 11February2013, Gaskins filed a notice of appeal and complaint
(complaint) with the Board which was docketed as ASBCA No. 58550. The complaint
asserted causes of action for differing site conditions, changes, and government caused
delay requesting that the Board grant it an equitable adjustment in the amount of
$8,911,078.86, plus interest, and a 361.5 calendar day extension to the contract.
Gaskins' Delay Claims
85. Gaskins' delay claim includes both excusable and compensatory delay
incurred in performing work under CLINs 0002, 0003 and 0004 of the contract. 8 The
8 The contract consisted of four CLINs (R4, tab 8 at 629). CLIN 0001 's original
completion date was extended by Mod. POOOO 1 to 13 July 2009 (R4, tab 9 at 666).
Work on CLINs 0002, 0003 and 0004 could not begin until work on CLIN 0001
27
12 March 2009 award letter established a completion date of 7 May 2010 (421 days) for
CLINs 0002, 0003 and 0004 (R4, tab 7). However, there were eight modifications
(P00002-P00009) 9 that ultimately extended the completion date for CLIN 0002, 0003 and
0004 to 19 September 2011, an additional 500 days. Gaskins achieved substantial
completion on 21 October 2011 (R4, tab 344 at 2).
86. Gaskins asserts entitlement to a total schedule extension of 361.5 calendar
days of excusable delay based upon the following six issues:
Gaskins' Delay Claim Days Requested
Replacement with Mansfield Industrial 43
Perry Roofing 55
Discovery of Hazardous Materials 91.5
Dispose of Spent Media at Mayport B Facility 36.5
Transfer Spent Media to DLA Dumpsters 36.5
Application of Intermediate Layer of Paint: Mod.P00003 99
Total 361.5
(Compl. ~~ 64, 88, 96, 100-14) Additionally, Gaskins asserts entitlement to
compensation for 411.5 days of compensatory delay for additional labor, equipment,
material, and other direct charges (361.5 based upon the issues above, as well as, an
additional 50 days that were not compensated by Mod. P00009) (comp I. ~~ 115-18).
Evidence from Gaskins' Delay Expert
87. Gaskins retained Trauner Consulting Services, Inc. (Trauner Consulting) to
perform a review of Gaskins' delay claims, evaluate the time extensions granted in
modifications 1 through 9 and the government's claim for liquidated damages assessed in
Mod. 010 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 287 at 1518). Mr. J. Scott Lowe, ofTrauner
Consulting, authored an expert report (Lowe Report) and was accepted as Gaskins'
expert in construction scheduling and delay analysis. Mr. Lowe rejected the use of
Gaskins' project schedules finding they were not adequate to serve as a basis for
quantifying critical project delays (tr. 4/16-17; app. 2nd supp. R4 tab 311 at 2008).
Instead, he developed a project critical path from an as-built plot derived from the daily
reports. Mr. Lowe's as-built plot begins on 5 January 2010 with the review ofDACA
submittals, not contract award, and progresses through thirteen critical path tasks until
completion on 21 October 2011 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2008). Mr. Lowe
was completed (R4, tab 17 at 701). Since Gaskins completed the work on CLIN
0001 on time, Gaskin's claim does not include any delays associated with CLIN
0001 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311at2010).
9
All but two of the modifications were bilateral. Those two modifications are the only
ones pertinent to Gaskins' delay claim - P00003 and P00009. (R4, tabs 11, 17)
28
explained during his testimony that he began his review 5 January 2010 because his focus
was upon issues in dispute and there were not any issues in dispute until after 5 January
2010 (tr. 4/21-22). Mr. Lowe's analysis focused upon each of the issues asserted by
Gaskins and concluded that Gaskins is entitled to 361.5 additional calendar days of
excusable delay and 313 days of compensable delay (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2025,
2027).
Evidence Submitted by the Government's Delay Expert
88. The government retained Delta Consulting to evaluate Gaskins' schedule and
any delays on the contract (R4, tab 39(a) at 1 of22). 10 Mr. Charles Heckman, of Delta
Consulting, authored a report and was accepted as the government's expert in
construction scheduling and delay analysis. In contrast to Mr. Lowe's approach,
Mr. Heckman employed an "'As Planned vs. As Built Analysis" as the basis for his
conclusions. The As Planned schedule was submitted by Gaskins and approved by the
government (pre-dispute). (R4, tab 39(a) at 5of22) Mr. Heckman noted the plan
provided for an early completion date of 4 March 2010, resulting in 64 calendar days of
float on the planned critical path (id. at 4 of 22). The As Built data was derived from
Gaskins' submitted schedule updates and spot checked for accuracy with information
contained within Gaskins' daily reports. Mr. Heckman's approach, in contrast to
Mr. Lowe's approach, was to progress through the As-Built schedule reconciling
observed delays and applicable contract modifications (id. at 5 of 22). Mr. Heckman
concluded the project was delayed 532 calendar days and that Gaskins was responsible
for 232 calendar days of non-excusable delay over the course of the project. However, he
also found that bilateral contract modifications, as well as Mansfield's successful
performance, reduced Gaskins' delay responsibility from 232 calendar days to 32
calendar days. (Id. at 21 of 22)
Discovery of Hazardous Materials and Replacement with Mansfield Industrial Delays
89. Mr. Lowe did not express an opinion on the existence of a differing site
condition but did analyze the impact such a condition would have had on the critical path
(tr. 4/37). He likewise did not distinguish between the existence of a differing site
condition and the replacement with Mansfield, combining the delay attributed to
discovery of chromium in the paint on the trusses and DACA's replacement by Mansfield
(tr. 4/39; app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2010). He concluded that the discovery of
elevated levels of chromium and the replacement of DACA with Mansfield Industrial
resulted in a critical path delay of 74 calendar days. His opinion was based upon the fact
that: Gaskins issued a notice of a differing site condition to the government on
2 February 2011; the daily reports documented that by 15 April 2011 Gaskins had
10
The government's Rule 4 file designated Mr. Heck.man's initial report as tab 39(a) and
his supplemental report as tab 39(b).
29
stopped blasting and painting on the project; Gaskins terminated DACA for convenience
on 19 May 2011 and replaced DACA with Mansfield; and, Mansfield did not begin work
until 28 June 2011. (App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2011-12)
90. In contrast, Mr. Heckman did not directly address the discovery of hazardous
materials issue, assuming the government's position in his analysis. However, he did
address the issue of Gaskins' replacement of DACA with Mansfield. His assessment was
there was a 39 calendar day delay from DACA's termination till Mansfield began work
which would be attributable to Gaskins. (R4, tab 39(a) at 16of22)
91. After the discovery of hazardous waste in the spent debris, on 17 December
2010 the CO directed DACA to stop work until a replacement sampling plan was
developed and approved by the government (R4, tab 19). The CO's direction states, "It
has also come to our attention that the required waste determination has not been properly
performed. Per Part 2, Section 07 57 19.00 25, Paragraph 1.5 LABORATORY
ANALYSIS." (Id. at 717) The revised plan was submitted on 19 January 2011 and
approved with comments and direction to proceed on 24 January 2011 (app. 2nd supp.
R4, tab 214).
Perry Roofing Delays
92. Gaskins complaint also alleges the discovery of hazardous materials delayed
one of its subcontractors, Perry Roofing (Perry), work resulting in a 55-day delay in the
project schedule (compl. ~ 96). Mr. Lowe's conclusion from his review of the as-built
plot was that the roofing work was not on the critical path but was concurrent with the
blasting and painting activities at the trusses. With regard to the claimed delay related to
work, he found that the work was started late and "the daily reports do not document
substantial periods where rain impacted the progress of Perry's work." (App. 2nd supp.
R4, tab 311 at 2012-13) Consequently, he did not allocate any excusable delay to this
issue. Mr. Heckman did not address this issue in his report. We find Gaskins is not
entitled to any excusable delay or compensable delay related to this issue.
Disposal of Spent Media at Mayport HWSF and Transfer Spent Media to DLA Dumpsters
Delays
93. Mr. Lowe found that although the alleged change may have resulted in
additional costs, "it does not appear that the critical path of work was delayed by the
requirement to dispose of the hazardous waste at the Mayport B facility" (app. 2nd supp.
R4, tab 311 at 2013). Likewise, Mr. Lowe found that, "it [transfer of the spent media to
DLA Dumpsters] does not appear that the critical path of work was delayed by the
requirement" (id. at 2014 ). Thus, he also did not find any excusable delay resulting from
30
this issue. Mr. Heckman did not address this issue in his report. We find Gaskins is not
entitled to any excusable or compensatory delay related to this issue.
Steel Profile Issue: Additional Layer of Intermediate Paint/Mod. P00003 Delays
94. In March 2010, Gaskins discovered that the surface profile was deeper than
anticipated in the specifications and the 2 to 3 millimeter required profile would not be
attainable without a change to the contract (see finding 34 ). Mr. Lowe found that the
daily reports confirm that Gaskins suspended its work pending direction from the
government as to how to proceed. On 24 June 2010 the government approved a solution
proposed by DACA for the coating issue and the associated cost but the government did
not issue a Notice to Proceed until 3 August 2010 (app. 2nd supp. R4 tab 311
at 2014-15).
95. On 30 September 2010, the government executed Mod. P00003 for the
additional layer of intermediate paint required to obtain the necessary profile, which
provided a 159 calendar-day time extension to the contract (see finding 36). 11 Gaskins
refused to sign the modification and on 14 February 2011 submitted a letter to the
government stating its basis for entitlement to more time and describing how the
additional 99 days of delay was calculated (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2015 (citing
ex. 21 at 2179)).
96. Although Mod. P00003 recognized only 159 calendar days of delay,
Mr. Lowe found Gaskins was actually due 214 calendar days. In his opinion, Gaskins
was prevented from making progress on the critical path from 31 March 2010, when the
condition was acknowledged by the government, to 3 August 2010, when the Notice to
Proceed was issued, a period of 125 calendar days of delay. In addition, he reviewed the
government's 3 1 May 2011 internal memo that confirmed the government agreed
Gaskins was entitled to an additional 14 days for remobilization, and 7 days for
containment repair. Since these 21 days represent a 21-day critical delay to the project
and this delay was the result of the amount of time the government took to provide
direction, Mr. Lowe opined Gaskins is entitled to a 21-day time extension for this delay.
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2016)
97. Gaskins stated that the additional work took 34 days that was not accounted
for in Mod. P00003. On 17 June 2010, the government confirmed that Gaskins was due
34 days to complete the new work (R4, tab 120). Gaskins' proposal dated 20 June 2010,
also included a 34-workday duration for the change work (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311
11
Gaskins complaint mistakenly states Mod. P00003 extended the schedule by 158
calendar days (comp I. ~ 107). It actually extended the schedule by 159 calendar
days (R4, tab 11 at 677). Mr. Lowe mistakenly also used the 158 number in his
analysis (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2015-18).
31
at 2192). This conclusion, was confirmed by an email dated 3 August 2010, where the
government stated that the delay resulting from the additional work was 34 working days,
and extended the contract completion date from 30 July 2010 to 20 September 2010, or a
total of 52 calendar days (R4, tab 130). Because the work associated with providing an
intermediate paint layer was critical, Mr. Lowe opined this entitled Gaskins to
52 calendar days (34 working days) of excusable delay (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311
at2017).
98. In addition Mod. P00003 extended the schedule from 30 July 2010 to
5 January 2011. This period fell over the Mayport Christmas shutdown but the
modification did not take this period into account. Regarding such a shutdown, the
specifications stated, "No work shall be performed during the period December 24, 2008
to January I, 2009 (9 days), inclusive, without prior written approval of the Contracting
Officer." (R4, tab 1 at 54, § 01 14 00.05 20, ~ 1.3.3 Exclusionary Period) Mr. Lowe's
review of the daily reports documented that Gaskins worked on 17 December 2010, but
did not return until 3 January 2011, incurring 16 calendar days of delay ( 18 December
2010 - 2 January 2011) (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2017). Although the specification
holiday work exclusion period only references the 2008/2009 holiday period that was
contemplated at award, we find that the intent of the contract was to exclude these dates
from any applicable extensions to the contract performance period. Consequently
Gaskins is entitled to 9 days of excusable delay for this issue.
99. Mr. Lowe concluded that the intermediate layer of paint issue resulted in a
total critical path delay of 214 calendar days, as follows:
Acknowledgment of differing site condition through
NTP and the time required for [the government] to 125
provide direction
DACA re-mobilization 21
Time to perform additional work in calendar days 52
Mayport Christmas shutdown 16
Total 214
(App. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2018) Since Mod. P00003 granted an excusable delay of
158 days, Mr. Lowe found that Gaskins would be entitled to an additional 56 calendar
day time extension (id.). Mr. Heckman merely accepted the 159 calendar day extension
found in Mod. P00003 in his analysis (R4, tab 39(a) at 10of22). Based upon the one day
mistake in Mr. Lowe's report of the number of days granted by the government in
Mod. P00003 ( 15 8 versus 159) and our finding that Gaskins is only entitled to 9 calendar
days for the holiday exclusion, we find Gaskins is entitled to 48 calendar days of
excusable delay for this issue.
32
Delay Associated with the Welding Rework Concurrent with the Steel Profile Issue
100. Mr. Heckman submitted his initial report on 15 April 2015, finding the
duration of the welding rework period to be 104 calendar days total of delay attributable
to Gaskins/Garrison Steel but that a 70 calendar day portion of this period overlaps and is
concurrent with the Steel Profile issue period- 29 June 2010 through 11 October 2010.
Mr. Heckman later submitted a supplement to his report, revising his conclusions. (R4,
tab 39(b)) After submitting his report, Mr. Heckman interviewed Mr. Champion, the
welding inspector hired to inspect the defective welds. Mr. Heckman determined that
Mr. Champion was regularly on the site from September 2010 through October 2011 and,
as a result of Mr. Champion's interview, Mr. Heckman changed his opinion of the
concurrency of the delay at the end of the project. He opined that the welding rework
interfered with the progress of the on-going work (critical path) through the end of the
project. As a result, his revised opinion is that the concurrent delay was 95 calendar
days. (R4, tab 39(b) at 2-3 of 6)
101. Mr. Lowe did not address the welding delay in his report and testified it was
not on the critical path (tr. 4/74-75). We find Mr. Heckman's conclusions more
persuasive and find the welding delay was on the critical path and 95 calendar days of
concurrent delay associated with the steel profile issue is attributable to Gaskins' welding
subcontractor, Garrison Steel. Consequently, we find that Gaskins is entitled to
48 calendar days of excusable delay and no compensable delay.
Compensable Delay under Mod. P00009 - Delay in Approval to Erect Multiple
Containments
102. Under the contract, Gaskins was restricted to erecting only two containment
systems on the project. On 9 April 2010, Gaskins submitted a request to erect four (two
additional) containment systems on the project and, having received no response, Gaskins
followed-up with a second request on 8 September 2010 (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311
at 2279-81). The government requested additional information which was provided on
14 September 2010. The contract required that the government respond to such a request
within 21 days, 5 October 2010 (14 September - 5 October 2010) (R4, tab 1 at 78, § 01
00. 05 20, if 1.4.2.1). The government did not respond until 24 November 2010,
50 calendar days later than required by the contract (5 October 2010 - 24 November
2010). The government responded to Gaskins' request on 16 November 2011 granting its
request for additional containments and agreed Gaskins was entitled to a 50 calendar day
time extension for the delay but denied Gaskins was entitled to any compensation for the
delay (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311 at 2283).
103. The government executed Mod. P00009 on 14 October 2012, granting a 50
calendar day extension to the contract for the delay associated with the approval of
33
multiple containments (R4, tab 17). 12 Gaskins executed Mod. P00009 on 28 September
2012 but reserved its rights to "to pursue time extensions and monetary damages" (id.
at 701, 704 ). Mr. Lowe concluded Gaskins was entitled to a compensable delay of
25 days (half the total delay) because he found that the work impacted by this delay was
critical and that granting Gaskins' request would have doubled its productivity (app. 2nd
supp. R4, tab 311 at 2024). Mr. Heckman did not analyze this issue but adopted the time
allotted in Mod. P00009 of 50 calendar days (R4, tab 39(a) at 14).
104. Mr. Lowe concluded that Gaskins is entitled to an additional 130 calendar
days of excusable delay and 313 days of compensable delay (app. 2nd supp. R4, tab 311
at 2025-27).
Government Affirmative Claims
Government Assessment ofLiquidated Damages: ASBCA No. 59902105. The government issued Mod. POOOlO (Mod. 10) on 5 September 2014,
assessing, $92,000.00 in liquidated damages, stating:
As of modification P00009, the contract completion date is
19 September 2011. Acceptance was taken 21 October 2011.
32 days of liquidated damages are being assessed as follows.
CLIN 0002 32 days at a liquidated damages rate of $2,000.00
per calendar day= $64,000.00
CLINs 0003/0004 32 days at a liquidated damages rate of
$875[.]00 per calendar day= $28,000.00
Total liquidated damages being assessed - $92,000.00
(R4, tab 344) A COFD was issued on 8 December 2014 asserting a claim for
$94,000.00 13 in LDs and retained the assessed amount from Gaskins' final payment (R4,
tab 346; tr. 8/123-24).
12 Mod. P00009 also provided an additional 17 day time extension to correct an oversight
in Mod. POOOO 1. However, this delay is not in dispute in this appeal.
13 The amount of $94,000.00 assessed by the COFD appears to be a clerical error (R4,
tab 346 at 1). Mod. 10 only assessed $92,000.00 (a copy of which is attached to
the COFD) (id. at 5). Additionally, a LD calculation chart attached to the COFD
also reflects the $92,000.00 assessment, despite the fact it mistakenly recognizes
34 rather than 32 days of delay (id. at 10).
34
Government Assessment for Defective Welding and Deficient Quality Control: ASBCA
No. 59901106. The same COFD that assessed LDs on 8 December 2014 also assessed costs
in the amount of $80,268.31 resulting from defective welding and deficient quality
control. This sum was comprised of the cost of the welding inspection services
($7,115.00) and a portion of the cost incurred by the government under the follow-on
contract for hangar 15 52 (phase II) attributable to the defective welds, deficient quality
control and the required re-work under the contract ($73,153.31). The damages relating
to the suspension of Phase II was based on a "pro rata" share of the damages the
government paid out for suspending Phase II, which the government found was
proportionately the responsibility of Gaskins. The calculation of this amount was based
upon the premise that Phase II of the project was suspended for a period of 43 7 days at a
cost of $925,000.00 paid out under a subsequent contract, of which 32 days was
attributable to Gaskins. (R4, tab 346)
107. Gaskins appealed the 8 December 2014 COFD to the Board on 27 March
2015. 14 The government claim for defective welding was docketed as ASBCA
No. 59901 and the claim for LDs was docketed as ASBCA No. 59902.
DECISION
Fraud in the Inducement
The government asserts three fraud-related affirmative defenses: (a) fraud related
to the representation in Gaskins' proposal that spent blast debris would be disposed
through the on-site facility; (b) fraud related to DACA' s lack of QS-1 certification at the
time of award; and ( c) fraud related to Gaskins' alleged concealment of defective welds
approved by Gaskins' welding inspector. Gaskins addresses all three defenses in its brief
(app. reply br. at 28). However, it appears the government has abandoned its defense in
the case of the certification issue and the defective welding claim because it does not
address these issues in its post-hearing briefs. Therefore, we consider these two defenses
to have been waived. Since a ruling for the government in the fraud or misrepresentation
in the inducement defense related to the waste disposal issue would render the contract
void ab initio, thus barring appellant's claims in their entirety, it is a threshold issue that
we will address before addressing the merits of the claims in these appeals.
The common law defense of fraud in the inducement may be established by proof of
fraud or material misrepresentation. RESTATEMENT (SECOND) OF CONTRACTS
§ 164( 1) ( 1981 ). However, unlike the Court of Federal Claims, the Board does not have
14
Due to a mistake the COFD was not mailed until 18 December 2014 and received by
Gaskins on 29 December 2014.
35
jurisdiction to impose civil or criminal penalties and forfeitures for a fraudulent claim.
Supreme Foodservice GmbH, ASBCA No. 57884 et al., 16-1 BCA ii 36,387 at 177,400 n.17
(citing United Technologies Corp., ASBCA No. 46880 et al., 95-2 BCA ii 27,698
at 13 8,079 n. l.) The only time the Board may base its determination regarding this defense
upon fraud grounds is when a court of competent jurisdiction has determined that a fraud
occurred. Supreme Foodservice, 16-1BCAii36,387 at 177,384 n.17; Environmental
Systems, Inc., ASBCA No. 53283, 03-1 BCA ii 32,167 at 159,053 (on recon.) (citing Martin
J. Simko Construction, Inc. v. United States, 852 F.2d 540, 547-48 (Fed. Cir. 1988)). In
instances where there has not been fraud found by a court, we may make findings as to the
material facts relating to misrepresentation and the contract and how the acquisition
regulations, statutes and contract clauses operate given those findings. Supreme
Foodservice, 16-1 BCA ii 36,387 at 177,384; Servicios y Obras Isetan S.L., ASBCA
No. 57584, 13 BCA ii 35,279 at 173,162 (citing United States v. Acme Process Equipment
Co., 385 U.S. 1381 (1966)); Toombs & Co., ASBCA Nos. 35085, 35086, 89-3 BCA
ii 21,993. It is well established that when one party to a contract induces the other party to
enter into an agreement through fraud or misrepresentation, the contact is void ab initio.
J.E.T.S., Inc. v. United States, 838 F.2d 1196, 1200 (Fed. Cir 1988), cert. denied. 486 U.S.
1057 (1988); Supreme Foodservice, 16-1BCAii36,387 at 177,384. The Restatement
defines a misrepresentation as, "an assertion that is not in accord with the facts."
RESTATEMENT (SECOND) OF CONTRACTS§ 159 (1981).
Disposal Through the On-Site Waste Disposal Facility
The government argues the facts establish Gaskins made a false statement by
stating in its proposal that it would dispose of the paint blast debris at Mayport's HWSF,
as required by the RFP, but the government alleges that Gaskins had no intention of
doing so (gov't br. at 68-72; gov't reply hr. at 10-15). The solicitation stated in two
places that the waste resulting from the blasting was regulated waste and would be
disposed through the Mayport HWSF (finding 16). Gaskins 15 January 2009 proposal
clearly stated that the waste generated would be treated by Gaskins as regulated waste
and disposed of through the Mayport HWSF. All three source selection board members
testified they evaluated Gaskins proposal and relied upon Gaskins statement that all blast
debris would be disposed of through the Mayport HWSF in recommending Gaskins for
award. (Finding 19) However, three years later, after the blast debris tested hazardous
and the CO required the disposal on-site through the Mayport HWSF, Gaskins took the
position that the solicitation allowed DACA to dispose of the blast media off-site and that
the change from the as planned disposal off-site to the Mayport HWSF was a change to
the contract that resulted in higher disposal costs (findings 53-55, 57). Thus, the
government's argument relies solely upon the language in Gaskins' proposal and
Gaskins' actions years later when hazardous waste was discovered (gov't br. at 68-72).
In response, Gaskins asserts there was no fraud or misrepresentation in the
inducement related to waste disposal. Gaskins argues there was no misrepresentation
36
because inclusion of the statement in its proposal was inadvertent and did not reflect the
RFP requirements as changed by solicitation Amendment No. 0002. (App. reply br.
at 29) Perhaps, in hindsight, Gaskins believes inclusion of this language was a mistake
but we are not persuaded it was inadvertent. There is no evidence to support that
conclusion. Gaskins points to the testimony of Mr. Frost who testified it was his
understanding that it was the result of a "cut and paste" error by the architect -
engineering firm (A&E) firm hired by Gaskins (finding 21 ). 15 We put little credence in
Mr. Frost's testimony on this issue since he did not prepare the proposal but merely
reviewed it. Conspicuously, Gaskins did not call the designer of record or anyone from
the architect firm to testify about the alleged mistake. Likewise, Gaskins did not present
testimony from Mr. Beasley, the estimator who prepared the bid, or Mr. Gaskins who
signed the proposal on behalf of the company (findings 20-21). Additionally, as the
government points out (gov't reply br. at 11), this language was inserted in Gaskins'
initial proposal and remained there through amended proposals that were submitted after
Amendment No. 0002 but it did not raise this issue during discussions or otherwise
question the statement in the solicitation (finding 21 ).
We conclude Gaskins has failed to establish the language in the proposal was
inadvertent and the logical conclusion from that fact is that Gaskins' intent at the time of
proposal submittal was exactly what a plain reading of the language indicates, that all
disposal would be on-site through the Mayport HWSF. The record supports the
conclusion that the intent of Gaskins' proposal was that all regulated waste would be
disposed of on-site through the Mayport HWSF but that DACA's intent was that it would
be disposed of off-site; that there was a lack of communication between the prime and its
sub in preparing the proposal. Mr. Frost testified that Gaskins' proposal relied upon its
subcontractor's methodology and there is no evidence DACA ever communicated its
intent to dispose of waste off-base to Gaskins during the source selection. In fact,
Mr. Mingle (DACA) testified he does not remember ever communicating the proposed
method of disposal to Gaskins. This is supported by the record, which only indicates
DACA submitted pricing information to Gaskins (finding 21).
Based on these findings, we conclude that the government has not proven that
Gaskins' proposal contained a misrepresentation. When a contractor makes a promise of
future performance in a proposal and later fails to perform, this generally will be a basis
for liability for breach of contract but not for misrepresentation. To also prove
misrepresentation, the government must prove a misrepresentation at the time of
proposal, such as that the contractor did not intend to perform or knew it could not
perform. RESTATEMENT (SECOND) OF CONTRACTS § 159 cmt. c, d ( 1981 ). The
15
Gaskins argues that the government attempts in its brief to introduce deposition
testimony to impeach Mr. Frost's testimony during the hearing after close of the
record and his deposition testimony is not admissible evidence in rendering our
decision (app. br. at 29). We sustain Gaskins' objection.
37
government has not done so in this appeal and has, therefore, not proven its fraud in the
inducement defense.
Finally, the government focuses solely upon two assertions in Gaskins' proposal
stating that spent blast debris would be disposed of on-site but ignores other parts of
Gaskins' proposal that required off-site disposal. Our findings establish the solicitation's
disposal specifications were so ambiguous on this point that we conclude they cannot
support a finding of fraud in the inducement (see findings 15-17).
For all the reasons stated, we conclude Gaskins' representations on this issue do
not constitute fraud in the inducement.
DECISION ON THE MERITS
GASKINS' CLAIMS: ASBCA No. 58550Differing Site Condition: Discovery of Hazardous TCLP Results in Spent Blast Debris
Gaskins alleges the presence of hazardous material in the existing paint constitutes
a Type I Differing Site Condition because the specifications stated the existing paint was
non-hazardous and the existence of the hazardous materials could not be discovered
through reasonable diligence prior to bidding. As a result, the differing site condition
caused appellant and its subcontractors to incur damages and negatively impacted the
contract schedule. (App. br. at 40)
In order to prevail on a claim for a Type I differing site condition, the contractor
must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that:
[T]he conditions indicated in the contract differ materially
from those actually encountered during performance; the
conditions actually encountered were reasonably
unforeseeable based on all information available to the
contractor at the time of bidding; the contractor reasonably
relied upon its interpretation of the contract and
contract-related documents; and the contractor was damaged
as a result of the material variation between expected and
encountered conditions.
Comtrol, Inc. v. United States, 294 F.3d 1357, 1362 (Fed. Cir. 2002) (citing H B. Mac.
Inc. v. United States, 153 F.3d 1338, 1345 (Fed. Cir. 1998)). The "indication" in the
contract "need not be explicit or specific" if it "provide[ s] sufficient grounds to justify a
bidder's expectation of latent conditions materially different from those actually
encountered." P.J Maffei Bldg. Wrecking Corp. v. United States, 732 F.2d 913, 916
38
(Fed. Cir. 1984) (citation omitted). Determining what the contract indicated requires
contract interpretation performed by stepping into "the shoes of a reasonable and prudent
contractor and decid[ing] how such a contractor would act in interpreting the contract
documents." Randa/Madison Joint Venture Illv. Dahlberg, 239 F.3d 1264, 1274 (Fed.
Cir. 2001) (quotations and citation omitted).
Gaskins contends the solicitation clearly defined the existing paint on the trusses
and the resulting abrasive debris as regulated, non-hazardous waste and the specifications
defined regulated waste as a type of solid waste that specifically precludes hazardous
waste (app. br. at 42). Furthermore, attachment B.2 of the solicitation informed the
offerors that the paint did not exceed TCLP levels for metal and that it was not hazardous
waste but directed offerors to treat the waste as regulated waste (id.). Gaskins also
contends that it interpreted the solicitation to define the waste as non-hazardous and that
the government agreed there was no hazardous waste/materials when it failed to respond
to appellant's request for information (RFI) during the source selection and the waste was
only determined to be hazardous during performance (id. at 42-52).
The government counters contending there was no differing site condition because
the RFP disclosed the presence of hazardous materials in the paint because the total metal
test results disclosed in the RFP identified the presence of chromium and lead in the
existing coatings which should have alerted any reasonable industrial painting contractor
to the need to employ appropriate worker protection measures (gov't reply br. at 4-10). 16
We agree with Gaskins that the discovery of hazardous levels of chromium in the
spent blast debris differed materially from the conditions disclosed in the RFP. Our
findings indicate the solicitation communicated to the offerors that any metals in the paint
did not exceed hazardous levels and the waste debris would not be hazardous but would
be treated as regulated waste. Attachment B.2 of the solicitation provided the offerors
with the testing results that indicated the existence of lead, chromium and other metals in
the paint and instructed the offerors that the paint did not exceed TCLP hazardous levels
so was not hazardous waste but was still regulated waste. (Finding 7) Amendment
No. 0001 to the solicitation, in response to an offeror's question during a pre-proposal
site visit, stated that the paint was not lead based but the waste would be regulated waste
(finding 8). The solicitation defined regulated waste to specifically exclude hazardous
waste. Specification Section 01 57 19.00 25, ii 1.2.11, defined Regulated Waste as a type
of solid waste and defined solid waste as "[g]arbage, refuse, debris, sludge, or other
discharged material (except hazardous waste as defined in paragraph entitled 'Hazardous
16
The government makes a distinction between hazardous materials and hazardous waste
i.e. content of paint before blasted and waste debris stream after blasting (gov't
reply br. at 4-10). Although the parties may have used the terms incorrectly and
interchangeably in their pleadings and during this appeal, we conclude it does not
impact our decision.
39
Waste' or hazardous debris as defined in paragraph entitled 'Hazardous Debris"'
(finding 16).
Amendment No. 0002 to the solicitation added a requirement that the contractor
be SSPC QP 2 certified, which pertains to a contractor's proficiency in hazardous paint
removal. Appellant submitted an RFI to the CO requesting clarification on the need for
such a certification since the test results indicated there are no hazardous materials
present and the blasting material will be treated as regulated material. (Finding 9)
Although this question did not directly address chromium, it clearly communicated to the
government that appellant interpreted the RFP to indicate that the test reports indicated
there were no materials in the paint measuring above hazardous levels and the waste
would be regulated but not hazardous. This allowed the government an opportunity to
correct appellant's reading to conform to the interpretation the government now takes.
Although appellant's question was examined by the government, appellant's question
was never answered. (Findings 10-13) Consequently, the government is bound by this
interpretation. See, e.g., Schuster Eng'g, Inc., ASBCA No. 28760 et al., 87-3 BCA
~ 20,105; Edgemont Constr. Co., ASBCA No. 16759, 73-2 BCA ~ 10,234; Triple "A"
South, ASBCA No. 27736, 86-2 BCA ~ 18,968 (also finding that where a contractor
attempts to clarify a solicitation ambiguity before submitting its bid, and the government
did not respond, the government is bound by the contractor's interpretation of the
ambiguity).
Likewise, we conclude that neither Gaskins nor DACA could reasonably foresee
that the existing paint and resulting abrasive debris would be classified as hazardous
waste prior to execution of the contract and that they reasonably relied on the solicitation
documents and possessed a reasonable interpretation of the solicitation documents in this
regard.
Although Gaskins has proved four of the five elements required to establish the
existence of a differing site condition, it must additionally prove it was damaged as a
result of the material variation between expected and encountered conditions to be
entitled to an equitable adjustment as a result of a differing site condition. Comtrol, 294
F .3d at 1362. Gaskins asserts five discrete damages resulting from this differing site
condition: (1) additional costs of complying with the government's on-site disposal
directive (app. br. at 55-61 ); (2) additional costs of disposing of contaminated PPE (id.
at 61); (3) additional costs and time transferring waste from previously approved vacuum
boxes to DLA approved containers (id. at 62-63 ); (4) additional costs and time erecting a
second containment (id. at 62); and (5) time to develop a replacement plan (id. at 64).
We address each in turn.
40
Disposal of Spent Blast Debris On-Site
DACA disposed of the first two containers of spent debris, which tested
non-hazardous, off-site (findings 48-50). Upon the discovery of hazardous waste in the
following batch of spent debris, the CO directed appellant to dispose all spent debris
on-site at the Mayport HWSF (finding 53). Gaskins contends this action was a change to
the contract because it bid this project on DACA's expectation it would only be required
to dispose of non-hazardous waste and that waste would be disposed of off-site (app. br.
at 55-61). In response, the government contends Gaskins' disposal claim fails outright
because it is contrary to the plain language of the contract (which includes Gaskins'
proposal), and Gaskins has not proved pre-bid reliance on its post hoc interpretation of
the RFP as allowing disposal at an offsite landfill (gov't br. at 73-78).
It is undisputed that Gaskins' proposal mirrored the RFP language that stated, "all
particles, blast grit and debris be treated as regulated waste and containerized for disposal
through the Naval Station Mayport hazardous waste storage facility" (finding 19).
Despite its representations in in its proposal, Gaskins now argues the contract did not
require disposal of regulated non-hazardous waste on-site. Assuming arguendo Gaskins'
interpretation is correct, it would still contractually be required to dispose of all spent
blast debris on-site. This source selection was a best value negotiated procurement
pursuant to FAR part 15 that allows an offeror to propose performance that exceeds the
requirements of the solicitation, which Gaskins' contends it did (finding 3). Since
Gaskins' proposal was incorporated into the contract upon award, Gaskins was required
to dispose of the spent blast debris, whether hazardous or non-hazardous, on-site
(finding 22).
There was some testimony to the effect the language in Gaskins' proposal was a
mistake (finding 20). However, we have already rejected this argument in our decision
related to the government's arguments for fraud or misrepresentation in the inducement,
concluding there is no credible evidence of a mistake in the sense that it was inadvertent.
Furthermore, the contract contains an Order of Precedence clause for design-build
contracts identified as specification provision 5252.236-9312 (finding 4). This clause
provides that any portion of the proposal that exceeds the requirements of the solicitation
has precedence. Macro-Z-Technology, ASBCA No. 56711, 13 BCA ii 35,225 at 172,833.
Assuming arguendo Gaskins' position is correct, that the solicitation permitted
non-hazardous waste to be disposed of off-site, this clause would require Gaskins to
dispose of non-hazardous waste on-site because it proposed to dispose of all hazardous
waste on-site.
Additionally, a review of the contract quickly discloses several contradictory
requirements pertaining to disposal of regulated waste. The provisions in Part 2 are
internally inconsistent (findings 15-16), Part 3 mandates on-site disposal (finding 17) and
41
Part 5 (Amendment No. 0002) directs off-site disposal (finding 18). Per the provisions of
the Order of Precedence clause Part 3 would take precedence since Part 2 is internally
inconsistent. Consequently, we conclude Gaskins (DACA) was required to dispose of all
spent blast debris on-site, whether hazardous or non-hazardous.
Even if Gaskins' had not proposed off-site disposal and there was not an order of
precedence clause in the contract, the result would be the same. We conclude the
solicitation was patently ambiguous imposing a duty upon Gaskins to inquire. Having
not done so, the ambiguity must be resolved against Gaskins. Triax Pac., Inc. v. West,
130 F.3d 1469, 1475 (Fed. Cir. 1997); Phoenix Management, Inc., ASBCA No. 57234,
11-1BCAii34,734 at 171,005.
Additionally, Gaskins contends the government never relied upon this language in
its proposal because the government approved plans that specifically stated that the spent
blast debris would be disposed of off-site, agreed with DACA's interpretation in a
meeting, and by email the CO ratified environmental personnel and technical personnel's
statements that the contract allowed off-site disposal (app. br. at 56-58).
Our findings establish that Gaskins (DACA) first submittal of a Surface
Preparation and Coating Plan was rejected because it did not address the disposal issue.
The CO's comments, dated 17 December 2009, stated disposal would be on-site.
Gaskins then revised the plan to direct on-site disposal. (Finding 24) However, later that
month, DACA began taking the position the contact allowed disposal off-site. Gaskins
now contends the government approved of off-site disposal in late January 2010 (app. br.
at 57). This is a reference to a meeting between DACA and government environmental
personnel during which DACA advocated for its interpretation that off-site disposal was
authorized under the contract and later represented that the government approved off-site
disposal during that meeting. Our findings establish there is no credible evidence to
support Gaskins argument; contrary to DACA's representations regarding the meeting,
the government personnel testified they told DACA that the contract required on-site
disposal and the CO testified she did not remember ever attending or hearing of such a
meeting and did not approve off-site disposal. (Findings 25-27)
Clearly the government approved plans submitted by DACA per the contract that
allowed DACA to proceed with the work. Additionally, it is clear from the record that
DACA repeatedly submitted plans that indicated disposal off-site. However, our findings
establish that it is impossible to establish from the record what specific draft submittals
were approved, what, if any, comments were associated with those approvals, and what
specific provisions were included in the plans approved. Additionally, a review of those
plans fails to correlate approval with specific plans. Those comments that are in the
record indicate the government required on-site disposal. (Finding 33)
42
Gaskins also contends the government is bound by the CO's ratification of
environmental and technical personnel's email communication to the contractor that the
contract allowed off-site disposal. On 20 October 2010, in response to a set of questions,
Ms. Kaiser (Mayport hazardous waste program manager) stated in an email to other
government personnel and Mr. Moody (Gaskins) that she was "good with [Chesser]
Island Road Landfill" for disposal off-site. Then Ms. Mason (CO's engineering
technician) forwarded this email to the "Team" that included government personnel and
Mr. Moody, copying the CO, Ms. Bushey (Hocutt), stating that solicitation Amendment
No. 0002 specifically allowed off-site disposal, a copy of which she attached to the email.
Ms. Bushey took no action in response to the email. (Findings 49-51)
Gaskins contends that the CO ratified the contract interpretation expressed by the
government personnel in the email string when she did not respond or take some action
(app. br. at 57-58). We have already concluded that the contract required on-site
disposal. Ms. Mason did not have authority to change the terms of the contract
(finding 51). Ms. Bushey's (Hocutt) testimony confirms she did not take any action in
response to the email, i.e. she remained silent. Silence in and of itself is not sufficient to
establish ratification. There must also be a showing of actual or constructive knowledge
of the action being ratified. Harbert/Lummus Agrifuels Projects v. United States, 142
F.3d 1429, 1433-34 (Fed. Cir. 1998), cert denied, 525 U.S. 1177 (1999). We have held
implied ratification to occur in situations similar to those presented here where the CO
remains silent while in the presence of unauthorized government personnel making
incorrect representations to the contractor that the contractor reasonably relies upon.
Brown Constr. Co., ASBCA No. 22648, 79-1BCAii13,745 at 67,368 (Government
personnel at pre-bid conference made incorrect representations regarding the contract
requirements. Although the CO, was present, heard the statements and knew they were
incorrect, the CO took no action to correct them.); Lox Equipment Co., ASBCA
No. 8985, 1964 BCA ii 4463 at 21,472 (inspector issued improper directives causing the
contractor to perform work in excess of the contract requirements were ratified by the CO
when he received knowledge of the inspectors directives and how they were being
interpreted but failed to take effective action to correct the situation).
Here, the CO's testimony established that she read the email, understood
Ms. Kaiser and Ms. Mason's interpretation of the contract that off-site disposal was
allowed and disagreed with their interpretation. She also was aware the email was sent to
Gaskins personnel. (Finding 51) Although being copied on the email alone would not be
enough, given these facts, we conclude the CO ratified the actions of the government
personnel and their interpretation on this issue, constructively changing the contract to
allow off-site disposal prospectively. The discovery of hazardous waste in the spent
debris was shortly after the constructive change requiring the hazardous waste to be
disposed of on-site. Since disposal on-site was more expensive than off-site, Gaskins
would normally be entitled to an equitable adjustment for the difference in costs.
However, that is not the case here. Gaskins proposed disposing of all waste on-site
43
(finding 19) presumably pricing these costs into its proposal. Consequently, Gaskins is
not entitled to such an equitable adjustment for disposal of the hazardous debris on-site
after the ratification occurred because it constitutes a windfall to Gaskins.
Regarding the prior off-site disposals, the CO could not have ratified the disposal
of the containers already taken off-site because she did not have knowledge of them at
the time of her ratification. DACA's subcontractor disposed of the waste off-site on
18 October 2010 but the government (CO) was not notified of the disposals until
22/23 October 2010 (finding 48). 17
Gaskins also asserts entitlement to 36.5 days of excusable and compensatory delay
associated with this issue (finding 86). Since we have concluded Gaskins was
contractually required to dispose of all spent blast debris on-site at award, Gaskins bears
responsibility for any delays related to this issue and is not entitled to any excusable or
compensatory delay for this issue.
Additional Costs of Disposal ofContaminated/PPE and Additional Costs and Time
Transferring Waste.from the Previously Approved Vacuum Boxes to DLA-Approved
Containers.
Our findings establish that upon discovering the spent debris contained hazardous
waste the government directed Gaskins (DACA) to dispose of the spent debris through the
Mayport HWSF using only DLA-provided containers, but that shortly thereafter, also
informed Gaskins (DACA) that the Mayport HWSF was unable to provide DLA-provided
vacuum boxes or accept third-party vacuum boxes (finding 73). Gaskins contends this
action introduced delays and unanticipated inefficiencies requiring DACA to transfer
debris from the vacuum boxes to DLA-approved open-top containers involving DACA
personnel handling the abrasive debris twice - once to vacuum it and once to transfer it -
costing DACA additional labor hours, costs to pay those laborers, costs for outfitting
additional laborers with PPE, and costs for disposing of that PPE as a hazardous waste
(app. br. at 62-63). We conclude that the order to use DLA-provided containers was not a
change to the contract and Gaskins is not entitled to any costs related to the conversion
from a third-party vacuum box to the DLA approved boxes, including the transfer from
the third-party containers to DLA containers. Gaskins was required to dispose of all waste
through the Mayport HWSF from the time of award. All offerors were warned in
17
Under proper procedures, the government would have signed the documentation
allowing the contractor to dispose of the waste off-site and, thus, would have
known of the action when it occurred. However, in this case the contractor
improperly signed as generator and approval for disposal on the documentation
and disposed of the waste without informing the government. (Finding 48)
44
attachment B.2 of the solicitation that they needed to establish an account to order DLA
approved containers in advance through the facility (finding 7).
Regarding the PPE related damages, Gaskins concedes that the discovery of
elevated chromium levels in the paint did not change the PPE used by DACA's original
workforce through the conclusion ofDACA's involvement on the project. Consequently,
Gaskins does not claim damages for the PPE used by DACA's original nine workers.
Instead, Gaskins claims (a) the costs of disposing of the PPE as a hazardous waste and
purchasing replacement PPE for the original nine workers and (b) the costs for outfitting
additional workers (beyond the original nine workers included in DACA's bid) with PPE
(app. reply br. at 12)
Mr. Blum's opinion substantiates Gaskin's position that the level of worker
protection did not change as a result of the discovery of elevated levels of chromium in
the spent debris (findings 66-68). However he did not opine on the need to hire more
employees that would necessarily have required PPE (finding 69). It is unclear from the
record whether the additional workers were also required to work on the jobsite (blasting)
as well as transferring debris for temporary storage waiting on DLA containers from the
government. We conclude that Gaskins has met its burden of proof related to the original
nine workers. Gaskins has also met its burden of proof regarding the additional workers
for costs incurred in transferring the debris to/from temporary containers because of the
government's delay in providing DLA containers.
Gaskins also asserts 36.5 days of excusable and compensatory delay for transfer of
spent media to DLA containers (finding 86). Gaskins' delay expert opined that any such
delays were not on the critical path. As a result, our findings establish no entitlement to
any excusable delay or compensable delay for this issue (finding 93).
Additional Costs and Time Erecting a Second Containment
Gaskins contends that DACA was required to erect a second containment for
workers to remove their contaminated PPE and to transfer hazardous waste from the
previously approved, Envirovac vacuum boxes into DLA- provided containers (app. br.
at 62). We fail to find any evidence in the record supporting Gaskins' assertion that a
second containment for workers to remove their contaminated PPE was a change to the
contract. We are persuaded by Mr. Blum's opinion that the containment requirements
found in the contract did not change as a result of the discovery of elevated levels of
chromium in the spent debris. As to the transfer issue, Mr. Blum did not address the need
for a secondary containment to transfer hazardous waste from the Envirovac vacuum
boxes. Gaskins presented testimony that the second containment was required to transfer
the debris to the vacuum containers for temporary storage in response to the
government's delay in providing DLA containers (finding 70). As we have already
stated, Gaskins is not entitled to any costs related to the conversion from a third-party
45
vacuum box to the DLA approved boxes per se, but is entitled to costs incurred with
transferring spent debris for temporary storage because of the government's delays in
providing DLA containers. Consequently, we conclude Gaskins is also entitled to costs
for a second containment to facilitate these transfers.
Gaskins does not specifically break out a claim for delay associated with the
contaminated issue. Our findings establish this alleged delay was not on the critical path.
As a result, there is no entitlement to any excusable delay or compensable delay on this
issue.
Time to Develop a Replacement Sampling Plan
After the discovery of hazardous waste in the spent debris, on 17 December 2010
the CO directed Gaskins to stop work until a replacement sampling plan was developed
and approved by the government (finding 53). The revised sampling plan was approved
with comments and direction to proceed on 24 January 2011 (finding 56). Gaskins
contends there was an approved plan already in place that the government considered
valid but the CO provided no explanation why a new one was required. This, Gaskins
contends, resulted in a delay of performance from 17 December 2010 to 24 January 2011,
constituting a 38 calendar days of excusable delay and a direct consequence of the
differing site condition (discovery of hazardous waste) (app. br. at 64). The government
did not address this issue in its briefs.
We conclude Gaskins is not entitled to any delay resulting from the CO's
direction. The underlying premise of Gaskins' argument, that there is no explanation for
the CO's direction, is incorrect although a bit terse. The CO did provide an explanation
stating, "It has come to our attention that the required waste determination has not been
properly performed. Per Part 2, Section 07 57 19.00 25, Paragraph 1.5 LABORATORY
ANALYSIS." (Finding 53) Based upon the circumstances involved, we conclude the
CO's actions were reasonable. Gaskins is not entitled to any excusable or compensable
delay for this issue.
Steel Profile Issue: Additional Compensation Mod. P00003
The government concedes this issue constituted a differing site condition but
argues Gaskins was fully compensated by execution of Mod. P00003. In contrast,
Gaskins' appeal appears to seek both direct damages for additional costs not reimbursed
for additional work and damages for delay to the schedule that are not reimbursed in
Mod. P00003 (compl. ~ 53; app. hr. at 65-67). As to the direct damages, the record
establishes Gaskins was reimbursed less in Mod. P00003 than the amount submitted in its
change proposal (finding 36). We conclude Gaskins is entitled to the proven reasonable
46
incurred cost of additional work that was not included in the amount reimbursed by
Mod. P00003.
Gaskins also asserts 99 days of excusable and compensatory delay as a result of
this issue (app. br. at 65-67). Our findings establish Gaskins is entitled to 48 days of
excusable delay resulting from this differing site condition and no compensable delay
(finding 101).
DACA Termination, Arbitration Expenses and Replacement with Mansfield Industries
Gaskins contends it is entitled to recover its incurred costs in arbitrating and
settling DACA's claims that were directly and proximately caused by the government's
failure to recognize and pay for clearly changed work requirements (app. br. at 68-73).
Specifically, Gaskins contends the combined effect of the Mod. P00003 shortfall and lack
of any compensation for the discovery of hazardous waste resulted in DACA never being
able to perform as it bid and left DACA financially devastated (id. at 68). Gaskins
contends the specific damages it and DACA incurred resulted from: "(a) arbitrating and
settling the dispute proximately caused by the government's failure to pay; (2) legal fees
and consultant cost to review DACA's submissions, prepare for, and participate in the
arbitration; and (3) subcontracting the remainder of DACA's work to Mansfield, for an
additional cost" (id. at 69).
We are not persuaded that DACA's financial condition was the direct and proximate
result of the government's failure to pay the claimed Mod. P00003 shortfall. Our findings
establish that after the discovery that the existing profile of the trusses was deeper than
indicated in the specifications, the CO suspended work on 31 March 2010. DACA
remained mobilized and the parties eventually agreed to solve the issue by an additional
layer of paint. Gaskins submitted a proposal of $508,979, assuming a re-start date of 5 July
2010. However, notice to proceed was not issued until 3 August 2010 and the modification
was not issued until 30 September 2010. Mod. P00003 increased the contract price by
$466,988.36, approximately 92% of the Gaskins' proposal. (Findings 34-37)
Only seven days after issuance of Mod. P00003, DACA's attorney emailed
Gaskins' attorney, copying DACA (Mr. Joiner and Mr. Ogletree), complaining that
DACA's progress was being impeded by Gaskins' welding subcontractor, Garrison Steel,
who was working in the same area as DACA. This contemporaneous email indicates that
DACA was in a difficult financial position at the tim~ of the surface profile issue and
execution of Mod. P00003 but that DACA considered the cause to be the interference by
Gaskins' welding subcontractor, not the government. There is conspicuously no mention
of the surface profile issue, a shortfall associated with Mod. P00003 or government
responsibility for its financial plight. (Finding 74) Thereafter, on 17 November 2010,
Gaskins issued a cure notice to DACA for failure to maintain schedule. DACA's
response on 19 November 2010, acknowledged the schedule slippage but again blamed
47
the delay on the defective welding work by Gaskins' welding subcontractor not the
government. This was followed by a second cure notice to which DACA responded with
a claim letter seeking compensation and a time extension for the interference caused by
Gaskins' subcontractor. (Finding 75) The record is devoid of any contemporaneous
evidence that DACA's financial plight was the result of the surface profile differing site
condition. Rather, the evidence indicates DACA's financial plight at this period of time
was the result of Gaskins' welding subcontractor.
We are also not persuaded that DACA's financial plight was the direct and
proximate result of the failure of the government to pay Gaskins' claims resulting from
the discovery of hazardous levels of heavy metals in spent blast debris. A large financial
component of Gaskins' claim is based upon asserted changes requiring DACA to dispose
of all spent blast debris on-site, add more staff and occupational exposure protection
methods for hazardous materials, including medical surveillance, respirators, HEPA
filters, protective clothing, shower and eyewash stations, and other precautions. In
addition to the above, Gaskins' asserts the discovery of hazardous materials in the
existing coatings required DACA to revise the containment system from a "Class II" to
an air-sealed "Class I" containment. We have already addressed these alleged
consequences and concluded the discovery of hazardous material in the spent blast debris
did not entitle Gaskins to an equitable adjustment for the requirement to dispose of all
blast debris on-site, require DACA to revise the containment system from a "Class II" to
a "Class I" system, or change the worker protection/PPE requirements. Although
Gaskins has proven entitlement to some damages as a result of the discovery of
hazardous materials in the spent blast debris, we are not persuaded they constitute the
direct and proximate cause of DACA's financial plight.
Gaskins' asserts the government is solely responsible for DACA's financial plight
which resulted in DACA's termination, Gaskins' incurrence of arbitration expenses and
the replacement with Mansfield. Although the two differing site conditions may have
contributed to DACA's financial plight, we are not persuaded they were the sole, or even
paramount, cause ofDACA's financial plight. Rather, our review of the evidence related
to this issue causes us to conclude that the direct and proximate cause ofDACA's
termination, the incurrence of arbitration expenses and replacement with Mansfield was
not the result of the differing site conditions but rather a combination of interference from
one of Gaskins' other subcontractors, Garrison Steel, and DACA' s determination to
dispose of spent debris off-site, contrary to Gaskins' proposal, which in turn was caused
by the failure of communication between DACA and Gaskins during the source selection.
Consequently, we conclude Gaskins has failed to meet its burden of proof on this issue
and is not entitled to these damages.
Gaskins also notes that the government was aware of its actions to terminate
DACA and hire Mansfield and references an internal government email exchange in
support of its assertion the government approved of this action (app. br. at 68-69). Our
48
findings establish the government did have knowledge of Gaskins' actions and internally
agreed Gaskins should replace DACA if it could not bring DACA back on schedule.
However, there is no evidence anyone in the government ever communicated this opinion
to Gaskins or ordered Gaskins to terminate DACA. (Finding 78)
Gaskins seeks 43 days of excusable and compensatory delay for replacing DACA
with Mansfield (finding 86). Given Gaskins' failure to meet its burden of proof on this
issue, there is no entitlement to either excusable or compensatory delay.
Delay Associated with Discovery of Hazardous Waste in Spent Debris
Gaskins seeks 91.5 days of excusable and compensatory delay associated with the
discovery of hazardous waste in the spent debris (compl. ~~ 100-01). Gaskins' delay
expert combined this alleged delay with the replacement of Mansfield opining there were
74 days of delay associated with both issues, assuming that this issue directly resulted in
DACA's termination and replacement with Mansfield (findings 89-90). This analysis is
contrary to Gaskins' complaint that asserts two separate claims, i.e. 91.5 days delay for
this issue and 43 days delay for replacement of Mansfield (compl. ~~ 100-01, 109-10).
Mr. Lowe's analysis is based upon the date Gaskins gave notice of the differing site
condition, the date DACA stopped work and the date Mansfield began work; his opinion
turns upon the assumption the government was the sole cause ofDACA's termination.
We have already concluded the discovery of hazardous waste was not the sole cause of
DACA's termination and replacement with Mansfield. Consequently, we conclude
Gaskins has failed to meet its burden of proof on this issue.
Perry Roofing
Gaskins, in its complaint, alleges the discovery of hazardous materials resulted in
project delays and, as a result, Perry was unable to commit to vendors within the ordering
window resulting in increased material costs and forced Perry to work in the rainy season
requiring Perry to work on smaller portions of the roof at a time (comp I. ~~ 93-95).
Gaskins' brief alleges an additional cause of delay and disruption resulting from the
government's delay in issuing Mod. P00003 (app. br. at 67). Mr. Erdman, Perry
roofing's senior field superintendent, testified that government-caused delays pushed
their work out beyond their originally planned work period resulting in great
administrative costs and cost increases in prices for 80% of its materials. Mr. Erdman's
testimony was contradicted by Ms. Mason's testimony. Ms. Mason testified she was on
site during this period and that Perry Roofing requested and was allowed to store
approximately 80% of its roofing materials on-site. Additionally, she testified Perry
Roofing invoiced the government and was paid for these materials in February 2011.
The price increases referenced by Mr. Erdman were not effective until 1March2001.
(Finding 38) We find Ms. Mason's testimony more credible on this issue and conclude
49
Gaskins has failed to meet its burden of proof and, consequently, is not entitled to any
compensation for the alleged delays or disruption to Perry Roofing's performance.
Gaskins also seeks 55 days of excusable and compensatory delay resulting from
this issue (finding 86). Mr. Lowe, Gaskins' delay expert, did not allocate any excusable
or compensable delay for this issue based upon his review of the daily reports
(finding 92). Our findings indicate this work was not on the critical path but concurrent
with the blasting and painting work and, therefore, is not entitled to any excusable or
compensatory delay (id.).
Multiple Containment Request: Mod. P00009
Gaskins was granted a 50 calendar day excusable delay by Mod. P00009 for
government delays to process its request to erect two additional containments on the
hangar worksite. This modification was bilateral but Gaskins reserved its right to seek
additional time and compensation. (Findings 102-03) Gaskins seeks 50 additional days
of compensable delay (comp I. iii! 116-17). Based upon Gaskins' delay expert's
conclusions, our findings establish Gaskins' is entitled to a compensatory delay of
25 days (finding 103).
Summary of Gaskins' Delay Claim
Below is a summary of our conclusions on Gaskins' delay claim:
Compensable Delay Claimed Granted
Replacement with Mansfield 43 0
Industrial
Discovery of Hazardous 91.5 0
Materials
Perry Roofing 55 0
Dispose of Spent Media at 36.5 0
Mayport B Facility
Transfer Spent Media to DLA 36.5 0
Dumpsters
Application of Intermediate 99 0
Layer of Paint (P00003)
MOD P00009 Delay in Approval 50 25
for Request to Erect Multiple
Containments.
Total 411.5 25
50
Excusable Delay Issues Claimed Granted
Replacement with Mansfield 43 0
Industrial
Discovery of Hazardous Materials 91.5 0
Perry Roofing 55 0
Dispose of Spent Media at 36.5 0
Mayport B Facility
Transfer Spent Media to DLA 36.5 0
Dumpsters
Application of Intermediate Layer 99 48
of Paint (P00003)
Replacement Sampling Plan 38 0
Total 399.5 48
Government's Affirmative Claims: Government Assessment for Defective Welding and
Deficient Quality Control (ASBCA No. 59901) and Assessment of Liquidated Damages
(ASBCA No. 59902)
The government assessed liquidated damages based upon 32 days of delay
(finding 105). The government is not entitled to these damages because we determined
Gaskins is entitled to 48 days of excusable delay. The government also assessed costs
resulting from defective welding and deficient quality control. This assessment included
a discrete cost for the weld inspection services and a portion of the cost incurred by the
government under the follow on contract for hangar 1552 (phase II) attributable to the
defective welds, deficient quality control and the required re-work under the contract.
(Finding 106) The government is entitled to recover the costs of the required inspection
and any damages incurred on the Phase II contract attributable to delay caused by
Gaskins. However, the damages relating to the suspension of Phase II was based on a
"pro rata" share of the damages the government paid out for suspending Phase II, which
the government found was proportionately the responsibility of Gaskins. This calculation
was based upon the premise that Gaskins delayed the schedule by 32 days. (Id.) Our
findings establish Gaskins is entitled to 48 days of excusable delay, rather than
responsible for 32 days of delay (finding 104). Consequently, we conclude the
government has failed to meet its burden of proof regarding the damages related to the
Phase II delays but is entitled to the costs of the inspection.
CONCLUSION
Gaskins' appeal in ASBCA No. 58550 is sustained in part and denied in part for
the reasons stated. The appeal in the government's claim in ASBCA No. 59901 is
sustained in part and denied in part for the reasons stated. The appeal in the
51
government's claim in ASBCA No. 59902 is denied for the reasons stated. ASBCA
Nos. 58550 and 59901 are returned to the parties for a negotiation of quantum.
Dated: 9 June 2017
Armed Services Board
of Contract Appeals
I concur
u1{\c:·(/\,'-.-'
\
'y \I 4
MICHAEL N. O'CONNELL
Administrative Judge Administrative Judge
Vice Chairman Armed Services Board
Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals
of Contract Appeals
I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the Opinion and Decision of the
Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals in ASBCA Nos. 58550, 59901, 59902,
Appeals ofL.C. Gaskins Construction Co., Inc., rendered in conformance with the
Board's Charter.
Dated:
JEFFREY D. GARDIN
Recorder, Armed Services
Board of Contract Appeals
52