FCDL Comment:
DR1: Based on documentation provided, FRN 2667577 is denied because you did not select the most cost-effective bid proposal. FCC rules state that in selecting a provider of eligible services, applicants must carefully consider all bids submitted and must select the most cost-effective service offering. In determining which service offering is the most cost-effective, entities may consider relevant factors other than the pre-discount prices submitted by providers, but price should be the primary factor considered. The FCC further codified in the Ysleta Order that In evaluating bids from prospective service providers, applicants must select the most cost-effective offering from the bids received. The selected bid must itself be cost-effective compared to prices available commercially. You received a bid from Gaggle offering the requested services at an amount of $840 and a bid from SharpSchools for $428.91. You selected a bid from Achieve3000 for an E-rate eligible amount of $4,921.95. This violates the FCC requirement that applicants select the most cost-effective offering from the bids received absent extenuating circumstances. During review you presented extenuating circumstances which do not mitigate your choice of a bid exponentially more costly than the prices offered by competitors. <><><><><> DR2: FRN 2667577 is denied because a signed and dated contract with your service provider was not in place when you filed your FCC Form 471 certification. The certified post date for FY 2014 FCC Form 471 #979086 is March 21, 2014. Your contract was signed March 25, 2014. Program rules require that a signed contract with your service provider be in place when you file your FCC Form 471 certification or prior to the Funding Year 2014 FCC Form 471 filing window close date.