Arkansas Administrative Code › Agency 168 - Arkansas Economic Development Commission › Rule 168.00.16-003 - Weatherization Assistance Program 2016

Current through Register Vol. 49, No. 6, June, 2024
Mission Statement
The mission of the Arkansas Energy Office, a division of the
			 Arkansas Kconomic Development Commission (AKO), is to promote energy
			 efficiency, clean technology, and sustainable strategics that encourage
			 economic development, energy security and the environmental well-being for all
			 citizens of Arkansas.
The State Goals
The policies contained in this plan will enable Arkansas and its
			 subgrantee network to effectively weatherize homes of low-income Arkansans
			 based on:
* Priorities to serve elderly and disabled persons, households
			 with children, and households experiencing a high energy burden as well as
			 households using a high amount of energy,
* insuring that only the most cost effective measures arc
			 employed,
* Weatherization process including client education on energy
			 conservation and addressing health and safety issues affected by work on the
			 house.
Overview
Executive Summary
The Arkansas Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Slate Plan
			 for Program Year 2016 derives from Arkansas's application to the U.S.
			 Department of Energy (U.S. DOE) for Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
			 funding. These funds will provide assistance to approximately 231 households
			 across the State. (NOTE: the estimate of 231 households is based on DOE funding
			 only.)
The purpose of WAP is to install energy conservation measures in
			 the homes of income-eligible persons (up to 200% of poverty level), with
			 priority given to homes occupied by the elderly, persons with disabilities,
			 households with children, households with a high energy burden and households
			 with high energy usage, funds arc directed toward the most cost-effective
			 energy efficiency measures, as determined by an on-site, highly technical
			 energy audit of the eligible building. The program helps to:
* reduce energy consumption in Arkansas, thereby reducing carbon
			 emissions that contribute to climate change,
* reduce the cost of energy for low-income families, and
* address health and safety issues affected by weatherization
			 work.
Arkansas relies on a network of eight (8) subgrantees; six (6) of
			 the subgrantees are Community Action Agencies (CAAs) and the remaining two (2)
			 arc non-profit agencies, one of which is a housing service agency.
Currently, subgrantees provide energy efficiency weatherization
			 services using their own trained crews or by subcontracting work to qualified
			 contractors. Energy efficiency measures funded through the program include air
			 scaling, insulation, and replacement of heating systems. The program assists
			 all types of housing, including single family homes (including duplexes,
			 triplexes and quadplexes), and manufactured housing (mobile homes).
			 Weatherization of multi-family housing focuses on small housing complexes and
			 group homes or emergency shelters.
The state will allocate DOE funds for the Program Year (PY) 2016
			 in accordance with this plan.
II.
		  Application for Federal Assistance - Standard Form 424
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			 to view image
Budget Summary
Category
DOE
2016 Program Year Allocation
$ 1.868,107
Training and Technical Assistance
						(T&TA)
$ 326,346 :
AEO Administration
$ 93,405
Subgrantee Administration
$ 93.406
Multi-Family Projects
$ 25.000
Subgrantee Operations*
$ 1,329.950
Totals
$
1,868,107 ;
* Budget categories and amounts for Financial Audits, Liability
			 Insurance, Program Operations, and Health & Safety will be negotiated with
			 each subgrantee from the Subgrantee Operations amount.
Weatherization Projects
DOE Allocation Subgrantee Network
						PY2016
Better Community Development. Inc.
$ 63,069
Black River Area Development Corporation
$ 151,695
Central Arkansas Development Council
$ 267,306
Community Action Program for Central Arkansas
$ 94,048
Crawford-Sebastian Community Development
						Council
$ 345,037
Crowley's Ridge Development Council
$ 212,252
Elevate
$ 269,697
Pine Bluff-Jefferson County KO Economic Opportunities
						Commission
$ 126,839
Total
$ 1,529,943
Summary of Major Changes from the 2015 Program
			 Year
Realignment
In PY 2016, AEO will reduce the size of the service area assigned
			 to Pine Bluff-Jefferson County Economic Opportunities Commission (PBJCEOC) from
			 fourteen (14) to ten (10) counties. This change will allow PBJCEOC to reduce
			 its travel time to homes, thereby increasing efficiency of scheduling and
			 providing more time to focus on quality of weatherization work in the remaining
			 ten (10) counties. Lee, Monroe, Phillips and Prairie counties will be
			 reassigned.
During PY 2016, Lee, Monroe, Phillips and Prairie counties will
			 be assigned to Better Community Development, Inc. (BCD) for single family
			 weatherization work. In the Spring of 2017, AEO will issue a Request for
			 Qualifications (RFQ) for these four (4) counties. The RFQ will allow all
			 interested parties to submit a plan for providing weatherization in this area
			 of the state.
Certified Quality Control Inspection by
			 AEO
In PY 2015 AEO established a partnership with Pulaski Technical
			 College Weatherization Training Center (PTC WTC) to provide inspections for ten
			 percent (10%) of homes weatherized and reported as complete. For PY 201 6 AEO
			 plans to employ a certified Quality Control Inspector (QCI) on stall or to
			 reissue the RFQ seeking proposals from qualified parties interested in
			 performing this function for AEO).
This requirement of the United States Department of Energy (DOE)
			 to employ certified QCPs went into effect in PY 201 5. By July 1, 201 5, all
			 agencies in the Arkansas network employed at least one (1) certified QCI. Such
			 inspections by certified QCKs provide oversight of the energy audit to ensure
			 that appropriate measures arc installed and opportunities for energy savings
			 and Health and Safety improvements are not missed and ensure that
			 weatherization work meets the DOE Standard Work Specifications (SWS).
Priorities for Service
DOE is requiring that points assigned to eligible applicants be
			 limited to the five (5) categories of priority for service established in 10
			 CFR 440.16(b): the elderly, disabled persons, families with children,
			 households with a high energy burden, and high energy user households, lime on
			 the waiting list is one significant area where points arc no longer
			 assigned.
Applicants with no priority points remain at the end of the
			 waiting list and will be served, oldest application date first, after all
			 applicants with one (1) or more points arc served. Applicants with tied points
			 will also be served by oldest application date first.
Arkansas is concerned that people waiting a long time on the list
			 and having no priority points will be waiting indefinitely. However, the
			 program requirements must be correctly implemented in order to avoid
			 disallowances of expenditures.
Budget
SUPPLYMENTARY GRANT
			 INFORMATION
APPLICANT:
Arkansas I Energy Office
900 West Capitol Ave, Suite 400
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
PROJECT DURATION:
07/01 /16 - 06/30/17
Name of Funding Agency:
Arkansas 1 Energy
			 Office
Part I:
Project Description:
Briefly describe the purpose of
		  the grant, the work to be done and the projected accomplishments:
The Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons will
			 weatherize 231 units for the low-income families in program year 2016 using DOE
			 funds.
Part II:
Budgetary Information:
Applicant
DOE
Federal
AEO Personnel Services
$
$I 20,371
AEO Travel
$33,000
AEO Contracts
$ 1 07,277
AEO Subtotal
$260,648
AliO Indirect Cost (29.74%)
$77,5 16
Subgrantees
$
$1,529,943
Total
$1,868,107
Indicate Other
Services:
Indicate "In-Kind" support by an (*) next to amount.
If the project is for more than one year, you should submit a
			 separate budget for each applicable year.
Budget Justification
BUDGET EXPLANATION FOR FORMULA GRANTS
Provide detailed information to support cash Cost Category using
			 this form. Cost breakdown estimates may be entered on this form or attach a
			 breakdown of costs using your own format as Attachment A.
1.
PERSONNEL
- Prime Applicant only (all
		  other participant costs must be listed on 6. below and form DOE E 4600.4,
		  Section B. Eine 6.f. Contracts and Sub Grants.
a. Identify, by title, each position to be
		  supported under the proposed award.
Weatherization Program Manager
Budget Specialist
Program Monitor (2)
Administrative Assistant
b. Briefly specify the duties of
		  professionals to be compensated under this project.
Weatherization Program Manager supervises staff, develops annual
			 grant, develops grant guidance, provides technical assistance to subgrantecs,
			 and reviews subgrantee contracts.
Budget Specialist assists in the development and management of
			 the grantee and subgrantee budgets. Processes invoices for payment. Tracks
			 expenditures for AEO and subgrantecs compared to approved budgets; processes
			 budget amendments. Completes financial reports. Performs on-site financial
			 monitoring of subgrantecs and reports findings.
Grants Analyst/Program Monitor (2) monitors performance of
			 weatherization subgrantees. The Program Monitor will also assist with the
			 states training center, coordinating hands-on training, develops the statewide
			 training plan, review subgrantees for compliance with
			 policies/procedures
Administrative Assistant provides clerical support to the staff
			 and assists the program manager with subgrantee contracts, typing reports and
			 maintains all records.
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			 to view image
2.
TRAVEL
- Identify total Foreign and Domestic
		  Travel as separate items.
a. Indicate the
		  purpose(s) of proposed travel.
(1)
		  Monitoring
(2) Training
(3) Meetings
(4) Conferences
b. Specify the basis for computation of
		  travel expenses (e.g., current airline ticket quotes, past trips of a similar
		  nature, federal government or organization travel policy, etc.).
		  (l)(2)(3)(4)Past Expcrience
3.
CONTRACTS
- 1 Energy Conservation Online
		  Software (FCOS) maintenance, third party QCI, training.
4.
OTHER DIRECT
		  COSTS
- Include all direct costs not included in above
		  categories.
a. Provide the basis for the cost
		  estimates (e.g., vendor quotes, prior purchases of similar or like items,
		  etc.).
N/A
b.
		  Briefly justify the need for items to be purchased. These expenses arc based on
		  prior year experience.
5.
INDIRECT
		  COSTS
-
a. Are the
		  indirect cost rates approved by a Federal Agency? If so, identify the agency
		  and date of latest rate agreement or audit below, and include a copy of the
		  rate agreement.
AHDC is requesting Federal approval of indirect cost rate of
			 29.74%
Carryover Explanation
Carryover funds will be used as originally budgeted and approved
			 in FY 2015 or will be transferred to Program Operations to weathcri/.e
			 additional homes.
SUBGRANTFES
1.
Better Community Development,
		  Inc.
3805 West 12th, Suite 203, Little
			 Rock, Arkansas 72204
Contact: Dairyl Swinton, Email: dswinton@bcdinc.org
Phone:501-379-1539
Type of Organization: Non-Profit
Tentative Allocation: S63.069
Number of Units to be Weatherized: 10 units
Source of Labor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1
Counties Served: Lee, Monroe, Phillips, Prairie and statewide
			 multi-family
2.
Black
		  River Area Development Corporation
1403 Hospital Drive, Pocahontas, Arkansas72455-3847
Contact: James Jansen - Email: jjansen@bradcorp.org
Phone: 870-892-5219 fax: 870-892-0707
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: SI 51,695
Number of Units to be Weatherized: 23 units
Source of Labor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1, 2. 3, 4
Counties Served: Baxter, Boone, Clay, Pulton, Independence,
			 Izard, Lawrence, Marion, Newton,
Randolph, Searcy, Sharp, Stone, Van Buren
3.
Central Arkansas Development
		  Council
321Edison Avenue, Post Office Box 580, Benton, Arkansas 7201
			 8-0580
Contact: Larry Cogburn Email: Iconburn@cadc.com
Phone: 501-315-1121 Lax: 501-778-9120T
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: $267,306
Number of Units to be Weatherized: 40 units
Source of Labor: Contractor and Crew
Congressional District(s): 2, 4
Counties Served: Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Garland,
			 Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard,
Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Montgomery, Nevada, Ouachita,
			 Pike, Polk, Saline, Sevier, Union
4.
Community Action Program for
		  Central Arkansas
707 Robins Street, Suite 11 8, Conway, Arkansas 72034-6517
Contact: Jennifer Welter Email:
			 Jennifer.welter@capcaine.org
Phone: 501-329-0977 Lax: 501 -712-4039329-9247
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: $94,048
Number of Units to be Weatherized: 14 units
Source of 1 ,abor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1,2
Counties Served: Cleburne, Faulkner, White
5.
Crawford-Sebastian Community
		  Development Council, Inc.
4831 Armour Street, Post Office Box 4069,Port Smith, Arkansas
			 72914
Contact: Mark Whitmer Email: mwhitmer@cscdcaa.oru
Phone: 479-785-2303 Pax: 479-785-2347
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: $345,037
Number of L'nils to be Weatherized: 52 units
Source of Labor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 3, 4
Counties Served: Benton, Carroll, Crawford, franklin. Johnson,
			 Logan. Madison, Scott, Sebastian,
Washington
6.
Crowley's Ridge Development Council
2401 Pox Meadow Lane, Post Office Box 16720. Joncsboro, Arkansas
			 72403-671 1
Contact: Tim Wooldridge Email: twooldrigde@crdcnea.com
Phone: 870-802-7100 fax: 870-935-0291
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: $212,252
Number of Units to be Weatherized: 32 units
Source of Labor: Crew and Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1
Counties Served: Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Greene, Jackson,
			 Mississippi, Poinsett, St. f rancis,
Woodruff
7.
Elevate
1701 Moss Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114
Contact: Brannon Runions Email: brannon@elevateus.org
Phone: 1-800-780-4444
Type of Organization: Non-Profit
Tentative Allocation: $269,697
Number of Knits to be Weatherized: 41 units
Source of Labor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Counties Served: Conway, Lonoke, Perry, Pope, Pulaski,
			 Yell
8.
Pine
		  Bluff-Jefferson County Economic Opportunities Commission, Inc.
817 South Cherry Street, Post Office Box 7228, Pine Bluff,
			 Arkansas 71611 -7228
Contact: Roger Lutrell Email: rlutrell@pbjceoc.org
Phone: 870-536-0046 Lax: 870-535-7558
Type of Organization: Community Action Agency
Tentative Allocation: $126,839
Number of Knits to be Weatherized: 19 units
Source of Labor: Contractor
Congressional District(s): 1, 4
Counties Served: Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland,
			 Desha, Drew, Grant, Jefferson, Lincoln,
WAP Production Schedule
			 PY2016
Total Units (Excluding Re-weatherized)
231
Re-Weatherized Units
0
Unit Costs Including
						Reweatherizalion
231
Total Funds Federal
$ 1,868.107
Total Units to Be Weatherized
231
Total Units to Be Re-weatherized
0
Grand Total Units
231
Total Vehicle and Equipment Budget
0
Total Units to Be Weatherized and
						Re-weatherized
231
Average Vehicle and Acquisition Cost Per
						Units
0
Total Funds Tor Program Operations
$ 1,094,122
Cost Per Units
$4,736
Average Vehicle and Equipment Acquisition
						Cost
0
Total Cost Per Units
$4,736
Energy Savings & Program
			 Impact
Method Used to Calculate Savings:
DOE
			 Algorithm
Estimated Energy Savings:
1.562 kilowatt hours (kWh)
			 of electricity and 106 thousand cubic feet of natural gas usage per housing
			 unit.
In 2012, the slate contracted with the University of Arkansas at
			 Little Rock to conduct an analysis of the impact of the Weatherization Program
			 and to develop a tool to measure economic and environmental impact of
			 weatherization activities. The results are discussed below.
Program Impact
The Institute for Economic Advancement (IMA) at the University of
			 Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) has worked in cooperation with the Arkansas WAP
			 to evaluate the statewide effects of WAP's efforts. This evaluation consisted
			 of several parts, including a series of surveys to determine customer
			 experience. The surveys gathered demographic information as well as
			 characteristics of housing in Arkansas. Economic benefits were evaluated by
			 gathering energy usage data for actual WAP customers and comparing the prior
			 year's usage to that of the year following completion of the weatherization
			 measures. Savings from the customer records were used to compute the average
			 energy savings per unit. This average was applied to the total number of units
			 weatherized from the beginning of the program in 2009 through projects
			 completed by December 31, 2010 to generate the total energy savings of the
			 program.
The initial study included analysis of weatherization measures
			 that were implemented in FY2009, 2010, and 2011. The sample of houses evaluated
			 in the analysis yielded an average annual reduction in electricity usage of
			 13.6 percent and a reduction in natural gas usage of 1 7.1 percent due to the
			 weatherization measures undertaken. Approximately, forty-nine percent (49%) of
			 the housing units in the weatherization program used natural gas for water
			 and/or space heating. These reductions in energy usage resulted in a total
			 estimated average annual savings of $2,409,458 for all recipients of the
			 weatherization services. Over the life of the wcatherization measures, it is
			 expected that the weatherization measures will save the recipients $1.94 for
			 every $1.00 invested.
Policy Advisory Council
			 Members
As required by federal regulations, a Policy Advisory Council
			 (PAC) assists in the development and implementation of the WAP and advises the
			 state on a broad range of issues relating to WAP. The PAC is broadly
			 representative of organizations that provide services to low-income persons in
			 Arkansas.
Member Representing:
Aging/Adult Services Gwen McLarty
Banking At Large - Keith fountain
Electric Cooperatives - Brett Curry
Energy Trade Association At Large Ken Smith
Environmental and Occupational Health - Morris L. Cranmer
Executive Director Community Action Agency - Mark Whitmer
Federal Housing HUD Steve Coop
Health Department - Quinyatta Mumford
Housing - USDA Rural Development Lawrence McCullough
Local Government Andre Bernard
Low Income Home J Energy Assistance Program Shirley Mason
Public Service Commission Wally Nixon
Public Utility Center point Energy Kirk Pierce
Public Utility 1 Entergy Arkansas Denisc Jeter
Pulaski Technical College Roger Smith
Weathcrization Director Community Action Agency Beverly
			 Palmer
Ex Officio Mitchell Simpson
State Plan Hearings and
			 Transcripts
ALO conducted a public hearing to receive public input on the
			 State Plan. Lor PY 2016 the hearing was conducted at 1 0:00 a.m. at. the
			 Arkansas Economic Development Commission Building, Bessie Moore Room
			 (2nd Floor), 900 West Capitol Avenue, Little Rock,
			 Arkansas.
Notice of the meeting was published in the statewide daily
			 publication the
Arkansas Democrat-Gazelle
April 12 April 14,
			 2016. The plan was also posted on the Arkansas Energy Office website at
			 www.arkansasenergy.org/weatherization-assistance-program click on "WAP Forms
			 & Documents" then "2016 State Plan") on April 6, 2016.
An official transcript of the public hearing was recorded and the
			 transcript will be made available on May 9, 2016. All comments received during
			 the 30 day period from April 6, 2016 (date of meeting notice on Arkansas Energy
			 Office website May 5, 2016) will be considered.
All comments will be answered and posted on the ALO
			 website.
This time line was sent by email to executive directors and
			 weatheri/.ation directors of the Arkansas Weatheri/ation network on April 6,
			 2016 to ensure their awareness and invite their participation.
Miscellaneous -
Recipient Business Officer:
Mitchell Simpson
msimpson@arkansasedc.com
501-682-1060
Recipient Principal Investigator:
Kay Joiner
KJoiner@arkannsasede.com
501-682-7390
Other Funding Sources
Low Income Home Lnergy Assistance Program (L1IILAP) funds have
			 been directed toward the weatherization program since 1982. The amount of
			 LIIILAP funds available for weathcrization during the 2015 program year is
			 S3,747,929.00; which represents fifteen percent (15%) of the state's LIIILAP
			 allocation. LIHLAP funds are received October 1 of each year and must be
			 expended by September 30 of the following year. LIIILAP funds for Program Year
			 2016 will become available to the WAP October 1, 2016. LIHLAP funds are used in
			 accordance with all applicable U.S. DOL and Arkansas State Plan rules and
			 regulations except as follows:
Other Funding Sources: Capital Intensive
LIHLAP funds are allocated for Capital Intensive measures. These
			 measures include:
* Primary use is to replace an unventcd space heater with a
			 vented one if it is the primary source of heat.
* Removal of secondary space heaters that are not ANSI Z21.11.2
			 compliant.
* Replacement of secondary heaters with models meeting ANSI
			 ZS21.11.2.
* Cleaning, tuning and/or evaluating an existing heating
			 system.
* If after a clean and tune up of a furnace, it is found not to
			 be repairable, a request can be made to ALO to replace the furnace. On any
			 amount over S2.500 a waiver must be approved with justification provided for
			 the request. The justification should include pictures, testing results and
			 analysis by a licensed IIVAC contractor. If readings and/or pictures were not
			 taken, an explanation is required. The form: Hvaluating IIVAC Systems (WAP 50)
			 must be completed or an IIVAC contractor equivalent used.
* The cost of testing, pictures and evaluation of the system by
			 an IIVAC contractor can be paid for with capital intensive funds.
Subgrantees Involved in the Leveraging and Collaboration
			 Process
Leveraging Activities
(1) ALO has signed an Inter-Local Agreement
		  with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development
		  Program to work on blended homes that qualify for both programs. Subgrantees
		  are asked to utilize USDA Rural Development 504 loan and 504 grant funds on
		  health and safety measures. This agreement allows WAP dollars to be better
		  utilized on energy conservations measures.
Collaborative Efforts:
(2) The stale has entered into a Memorandum
		  of Understanding (MOU) with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
		  Rural Development. This MOU will allow the state to reduee the number of
		  deferrals and assist the Secretary of Agriculture's Poverty Initiative as well
		  as to advance the cause of healthy and sustainable, affordable housing in rural
		  communities by enabling both parties to serve more families in more ways in
		  rural areas.
(3) The state is also
		  collaborating with the United States Department of Housing and Urban
		  Development (HUD) and USDA on multi-family weatherization. The state will set
		  aside funding to address multi-family developments in the state's four (4)
		  Congressional Districts.
(4) Healthy
		  Homes is a comprehensive approach to combat disease and injury in the home
		  driven by scientific evidence that links substandard housing and poor health.
		  Healthy Homes interventions take a holistic approach to coordinated mitigation
		  of housing-related hazards, rather than addressing a single hazard at a time.
		  This method allows Healthy Homes practitioners to address a wide array of
		  health and safety issues, including lead poisoning, asthma (exacerbated by
		  moisture, mold, and pests), exposure to radon and other toxic chemicals, and
		  injury caused by old or dilapidated housing among myriad others. ] lealthy
		  Homes funding is provided by several federal agencies including the U.S.
		  Department of f lousing and Urban Development (HUD), the ("enters for Disease
		  Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. 1 environmental Protection Agency
		  (UPA).
Weatherization Plus Health: A National Effort for Local
			 Healthy Homes Collaboration
The U.S. Department of 1 energy (DOIe) Weatherization Plus Health
			 initiative is a national effort to enable the comprehensive, strategic
			 coordination of resources for energy, health, and safety in low-income homes.
			 The National Association of State Community Services Programs (NASCSP) is
			 implementing the project on behalf of DO! e. Weatherization Plus Health will
			 ensure energy efficient and healthy indoor environments by facilitating the
			 establishment of strong, effective partnerships between grantees of the
			 Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and providers of healthy homes
			 services. Arkansas will work with the Policy Advisory Council (PAC) to
			 establish a Healthy Homes Initiative.
Eligibility
Arkansas response to DOE Weatherization Program
			 Requirements:
Every dwelling wcathcriz.cd will meet both client eligibility and
			 building eligibility requirements, as follows:
Determining Client Eligibility
In accordance with 10 CI R 440.16(a), AKO understands that no
			 dwelling unit may be wcatherized without documentation that the unit is an
			 eligible dwelling unit as provided in 440.22.
Income Verification
* A dwelling unit shall be eligible for wcathcrization assistance
			 under this pari if it is occupied by a family unit;
(1) whose income is at or below 200 percent
		  of the poverty level determined in accordance with criteria established by the
		  Director of the Office of Management and Budget, or
(2) which contains a member who has received
		  cash assistance payments have been paid at any time during the preceding twelve
		  months under Titles IV and XVI of the Social Security Act, or
(3) that is eligible for assistance based on
		  energy assistance payments that have been paid under the Low Income Home Kncrgy
		  Assistance Program (KIIIKAP) at any time during the preceding twelve
		  months.
* AEO will follow DOE's Poverty Income Guidelines and Definition
			 of Income found in WPX 16-3. AKO and its subgrantecs will use the revised
			 definition of income to determine how to define income, cash receipts,
			 exclusions, proving eligibility, child support, annualizing income, and
			 re-ccrtification.
* AEO acknowledges that all supporting documentation for
			 applicants who arc on a waiting list must contain eligibility verification that
			 has been updated once a year following dale of verification at time of
			 application.
Procedures to Determine That Units Weatherized Have
			 Eligibility Documentation (Household Eligibility)
All dwelling units certified as eligible for services shall be
			 occupied by an income-eligible household with income at or below 200 percent of
			 the poverty level, or
* which contains a member who receives cash assistance payments
			 under Title IV or XVI of the Social Security Act or has received such payments
			 during the twelve (12) month period preceding the determination of eligibility
			 for wcathcrization assistance," or
* which contains a member which has received energy assistance
			 payments under the I ,ow Income Home Knergy Assistance Program during the
			 twelve (12) month period preceding the determination of eligibility for
			 wcathcrization assistance, provided household income docs not exceed 200% of
			 poverty level.
Non-traditional dwelling units such as apartments over
			 businesses, require AKO approval prior to wcathcrization. AKO will ensure that
			 program regulations for eligibility are met prior to granting approval.
Requirements to establish eligibility of non-stationary campers
			 and trailers arc:
* Residential electric services established.
* Mail service established using street address.
* Other proof that permanent residence has been established lor
			 12 months or more.
Such documentation will include: all sources of income, such as
			 payroll stubs, social security administration award letter, income tax forms.
			 Subgrantees are required to keep documentation in each client file for review
			 during Program Compliance and Onsitc Program monitoring visits by stale WAP
			 staff.
Qualified Aliens Receiving Weatherization
			 Benefits:
U.S. DOE directs grantees to guidance provided by Health and 1
			 luman Services (J 11 IS) under
LIHEAP. This guidance can be found by going to:
			 http://aspe.hhs.gov/hps/immigration/restrictions-suni.shtml. Subgrantees must
			 verify qualified alien status of Weatherization Program applicants. The
			 verification documentation is required as part of the Subgrantec Client
			 files.
Determining Building Eligibility
Reweatherizalion Compliance
The following is Arkansas' plan to ensure that houses are not
			 rc-weatherized if weatherization occurred after 9/30/1994:
1) Develop access to the database for non-CAP
		  agencies, if possible.
2) Require
		  that agencies search by address as well as client name.
3) Understanding that data prior to circa
		  2004 is not available in the database:
* Survey agencies for the existence of paper records of houses
			 weatherized.
* Require, if newly assigned to serve counties since 2013, to
			 contact the agency which previously served that county for information on a
			 house prior to approving application.
* Prior to doing the energy audit, require visual inspection at
			 the house for new windows and doors, new IIVAC, extensive interior caulking,
			 presence of insulation (check date on attic insulation tag).
4) The least reliable avenue is asking the
		  applicant; this question is asked at the top of the weatherization application
		  and will continue to be explored with the client.
This process will be completed prior to the Grants Guidance
			 Workshop (March 23 24) where review of the process to prevent unallowable
			 re-wcatherization will be addressed with the network.
Homes weatherized on or before September 30, 1994 are eligible to
			 be rcweatherized. No more than ten percent (10%) of a subgrantcc's DOE
			 completed units may be rcweatherized without prior approval from AKO. The
			 priority wait list will be followed in addressing rcweatherized units.
Eligible Structures
Eligiblc housing types include owner and renter-occupied
			 single-family homes, manufactured (mobile) homes, and mullifamily buildings.
			 Multi-family is defined as small multi-family complexes. Single-family homes
			 include duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes.
State Historic Preservation Compliance
			 (SHPO)
Arkansas Historic Preservation Program and ALO have not developed
			 a Programmatic Agreement. Therefore, prior to the expenditure of federal funds
			 to alter any structure or site, ALO Subgrantees will comply with Section 106 of
			 the National Historic Preservation Act (NIIPA). Section 106 applies to historic
			 properties or sites that are listed on or eligible for listing on the National
			 Register of Historic Places. In order to fulfill the requirements of Section
			 106. the Subgrantec must contact the Historic Preservation Office to coordinate
			 the Section 106 review as set forth in 36 Cf R Part 800 and consistent with
			 DOL's 2009 Letter of Delegation of Authority.
Subgrantees arc required to obtain/verify the year a home was
			 built (typically records are located with the county assessor's office). Prior
			 to wcatheri/ing a home that is 50 years old or older, the subgrantec must
			 follow this protocol:
* Take a picture of the front and rear of the home;
* Draft a letter that:
* states the address of the home,
* includes an energy audit printout, work order, and the pictures
			 as enclosures, and
* requests approval to complete weatherization measures.
* Letters should be mailed to: Robert W. Scoggin, Section 104
			 Program Manager, Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, Tower Building, 323
			 Center Street, Suite 1500, Little Rock, AR 72201.
The SHPO will notify the subgrantec within thirty (30) days
			 whether or not permission is granted to proceed with weatherization.
Rental Units
Arkansas's rental plan as follows, protects renters rights as
			 specified in 10 CLR 440.22 (b)(3) and (c) (e).
* The subgrantec obtains written permission from the owner or
			 agent of the rental unit. Such written permission shall be permanently
			 maintained in the file of the client whose unit is weatherized.
* The benefits of weatherization assistance will accrue primarily
			 to low-income tenants.
* No undue or excessive enhancement shall occur to the value of
			 the dwelling units. An energy audit of a rental unit will be reviewed to
			 determine if work authorized by the audit software is more costly than the
			 average cost per unit (ACPU) for the agency providing the weatherization
			 services. If the cost of work on the rental unit exceeds the agency's ACPU,
			 agency will negotiate with the property owner to pay all or part of the cost
			 exceeding the ACPU prior to any work being done on the unit. If the owner's
			 household income is 200% of poverty level or less, then the rental unit may be
			 weatherized without owner/landlord contribution.
* Not less than 66 percent (50 percent for duplexes and four-unit
			 buildings) of the dwelling units in the building arc eligible dwelling units or
			 will become eligible dwelling units within 180 days under a Federal, Stale, or
			 local program for rehabilitating the building or making similar improvements to
			 the building.
* The subgrantcc must obtain and place in the client file a
			 signed agreement from the landlord (or authorized agent of the landlord) that
			 states that for a minimum of twelve (12) months after wcathcrization work has
			 been completed on a dwelling, the tenants in that dwelling will not be
			 subjected to rent increases because of the increased value of dwelling units
			 due solely to wcathcrization assistance provided.
* Subgrantces will provide copies of the signed Landlord
			 Agreements to the tenants to ensure their understanding and provide an avenue
			 for tenant complaints.
* Other Considerations:
* In the event of a dispute between the tenant and property owner
			 regarding the issues listed above, the subgrantcc will attempt to resolve the
			 dispute; if that fails, the tenant will be referred to legal aid by the
			 subgrantcc.
* Units being weathcrized must be occupied by a qualified
			 household; the only exception to this requirement is that an applicant
			 household may temporarily move out while work is being performed on the house,
			 if the temporary nature of the move is documented and re-occupation of the
			 house is expected one work is completed.
* The Arkansas Wcathcrization Assistance Program does not seek
			 property owner agreements for placement of liens nor does it use other
			 contractual restrictions.
Arkansas requires financial participation from owners when
			 feasible.
Deferral Process
There arc conditions and situations under which a subgrantcc must
			 not or may choose not to wcathcrizc an otherwise eligible dwelling unit.
			 Information for making this determination may become evident during either the
			 eligibility process or during the initial inspection process. The Arkansas WAP
			 Deferral policy is part of the J lealth & Safety plan found in the Arkansas
			 Subgrantcc Operations Manual, Chapter 7 Technical Standards and Best Practices,
			 VI. Health & Safety.
Definition of Children
Children arc defined as those individuals under the age of
			 19.
Approach to Tribal Organizations
Low-income members of Indian tribes will receive benefits
			 equivalent to the assistance provided to other low-income persons within
			 Arkansas. Arkansas has no identified Indian 'Tribes.
Selection of Areas to be
			 Served
In 2013, Arkansas issued Requests for Qualifications (Rl'Q) and
			 changed the traditional service areas from those served by Community Action
			 Agencies (15) to larger areas served by seven (7) agencies. Serving larger
			 areas of the slate has provided challenges for the Arkansas network.
AEO reserves the right to:
* Change any service delivery areas should production of homes or
			 service to eligible clients not meet standards of quality work.
* Reassign on a temporary basis, responsibility for the
			 Weatherixation Program in a service area or part of a service area in order to
			 ensure quality of service.
* Issue a Request for Qualifications (RfQ) at any time for part
			 or all of the Wealheri/ation Program and its service areas.
At the beginning of PY 2016, four (4) counties: Lcc, Monroe.
			 Phillips and Prairie will be re-assigned for one (1) year from PBJCKOC to BCD.
			 This action has been approved by ])()]* in order to provide a more manageable
			 area for PBJCKOC. These four counties will be subject to an R1Q for PY 2017
			 where any interested party may apply to provide Wcatherization services.
Priorities For Service
			 Delivery
Subgrantees arc allowed to maintain a priority list for each
			 county in their service area. The AKO has elected to use the same Client
			 waiting list for DOE and KI1IKAP programs. In the event of the death of the
			 head of household, the household will maintain its eligibility and status on
			 the waiting list.
The Subgrantcc's waiting list must be maintained by assigning
			 priority points for DOE categories of priority for service. Priority Points are
			 awarded to eligible households based on:
1. At least one member of the household is
		  elderly (age 60 or older). (1 point)
2. At least one member of the household is
		  disabled (a disabled person must be a recipient of Rehabilitation Services,
		  receive Social Security disability, Veterans disability or services under the
		  Developmental Disabilities Act). Disability from a private employer must be in
		  addition to or as a settlement with Federal or state disability. (1
		  point)
3. At least one member of
		  the household is a child (under the age of 19). (1 point)
4. The household experiences a high energy
		  burden. (1 point)
A household spending 14% or more of their income on heating and
			 cooling is defined as having a high energy burden. To calculate the household's
			 energy burden:
a. Add the client's
		  heating and cooling utility bills (gas, electric, fuel oil) for the past 12
		  months;
b. Use client's annualized
		  income documentation (obtained during the client intake process):
c. Divide the sum of utility bills by the
		  annualized income and multiply by 100 to determine the percent
		  burden.
5. The household
		  is a high energy user. (1 point)
A household whose electricity bill is 100 or more per square fool
			 is defined as a high energy user. To calculate, take the highest summer
			 electric bill. Divide by conditioned square footage of the house. If result is
			 100 or more, household is a high energy user. Knlcrgy Solutions brochure "You
			 have the power to lower your Kntcrgy bill."
AEO has approved the use of separate priority lists by county to
			 give subgrantces flexibility when scheduling work crews and assigning
			 contractors. This policy minimizes travel distances and maximizes available
			 work hours and worker efficiency. I lowcvcr, a subgrantcc serving two or more
			 counties may
not
work exclusively in one county for more than one
			 month. The Subgrantee's goal should be to serve each county in proportion to
			 the number of units planned for that county and to prioritize counties based on
			 the number of priority points assigned to top applicants on each county list.
			 The selection of a county in which to provide weatherization work exclusively
			 for a coming month should be based on where the applicant with the highest
			 number of points among all counties resides.
A copy of each county priority list must be printed monthly and
			 kept on file. Kach county list should contain notes, e.g., attempts to contact
			 clients and other information pertinent to selection of clients.
Clients with equal number of priority points or no priority
			 points must be selected on the basis of application dates with clients waiting
			 the longest on the list being selected first.
It is permissible to pull a client from the priority list out of
			 order to engage with a leveraging opportunity, if the following guidelines are
			 followed:
* Client is part of a group with an equal number of points at or
			 near the top of the list and
* Leveraging opportunity is rare and
* Subgrantcc can defend the selection of client for leveraging
			 over other clients on list.
Climatic Conditions
Total heating degrcc-days (dd) in Arkansas range from a high of
			 5,708 in the northwestern corner of the State to a low of 4,555 in southeastern
			 Arkansas. The average heating degree-days are thirty (30) year averages that
			 have been supplied by the National Oeeanic and Atmospherie Administration. In
			 counties without reporting stations and some without complete data for thirty
			 (30) years, data from nearby stations was utilized.
Provider
DD
Black River Area Development Council
5,458
Central Arkansas Development Council
4,961
Community Action Program for Central Arkansas
5,276
Crowley's Ridge Development Council
5,291
Crawford-Sebastian Community Development
						Council
5,33 1
Pine Bluff-Jefferson County Fconomic Opportunities
						Commission
5,064
Elevate
5,182
Types of Weatherization Work to be
			 Implemented
Technical Guides and Materials
Arkansas uses the following:
(1) The Standard Work Specifications field
		  Guide for Single-Family Homes (issued 2014).
(2) Arkansas Wcatheri/ation Assistance
		  Program field Guide (mobile homes only), and
(3) Subgrantcc Operations Manual (under revision).
The Standard Work Specifications field Guide for Single-family
			 Homes will be mailed to subgrantces with certified return receipt requested in
			 April 2016. DOf approval to use this guidance document must be obtained
			 first.
Electronic Link
http://arkansasenergy.org/
Click on "Incentives & Programs" on the left side of screen,
			 then
Click on "Weathcrization Assistance Program (WAP)" and scroll
			 down to
Select "WAP forms & Documents"
Access all WAP documents available on the Arkansas Knergy
			 website.
Documentation of Distribution
Standard Work Specifications field Guide for Single-family Homes:
			 mailed with certified return receipt to all subgrantces by July 2015.
Arkansas Subgrantcc Operations Manual 2014
All documents will be maintained on the website.
Documenting the Process for Distribution
AEO sent each subgrantcc one copy of the Standard Work
			 Specifications Field Guide for Single-Family Homes via certified mail. Fach
			 subgrantcc signed for delivery. The US Postal Service sent us copies of the
			 signature cards which is our written verification that the subgrantces have
			 received a copy. As a reminder, the Standard Work Specifications Field Guide
			 for Single-Family Homes is available on the AFX) website referenced
			 above.
Likewise, subgrantces have their direct hires sign-off that they
			 have received a copy of the Standard Work Specifications Field Guide for
			 Single-Family Homes at the time of their contract signing. AFX) receives a copy
			 of the sign-offs from the Subgrantces for each of its direct hires.
AEO's Statements of Assurances
AFX) ensures that all subgrantcc agreements and subgrantcc direct
			 hire contractor's contracts will contain language which clearly specifies that
			 all work performed will be of a quality outlined in WPN 15-4, Section 2.
The language will clearly require and document the
			 following:
(1) that subgrantces
		  understand that work quality standards must align with the SWS,
(2) that each subgrantcc's direct hire is
		  aware of these standards, and
(3)
		  that they all must sign off that they have received a copy of the Standard Work
		  Specifications Field Guide for Single-Family Homes.
AEO ensures that all work will be performed in accordance with
			 our DOF-approved Fncrgy Audit procedures and all materials will be approved
			 materials specified in 10 CFR 440. Appendix A.
* Language in Subgrantcc Agreement
Subgrantcc agreements incorporate language which states the
			 expectations for work quality and how the subgrantcc's direct hire contracts
			 must specify the same,
* Describe Mechanism Used
The mechanism AFX) will utilize to verify that subgrantces
			 understand and agree to expectations of work to be performed will be via the
			 subgrantcc's signature on the contract documents.
Energy Audit Procedures
Arkansas is committed to resubmitting energy audit procedures to
			 DOF for approval every five (5) years, with the understanding that sufficient
			 lead time is required for the approval process.
Single Family Energy Audit
Encrgy Conservation Online Software (FCOS) is utilized to audit
			 single family homes. Site specific audits must be run on all single family
			 homes weathcrized with Arkansas Wcathcrization Assistance Program funds. DOF
			 approval of FCOS was granted December 22, 2014.
Manufactured Housing Energy Audit
Energy Conservation Online Software (ECOS) is utilized to audit
			 manufactured housing. Site specific audits must be run on all mobile homes
			 wealherized with Arkansas Wcathcrization Assistance Program funds. DOE approval
			 of ECOS was granted December 22, 2014.
Multi-family Energy Audit
Arkansas received approval to use the National Energy Audit Tool
			 (NEAT) for single family and manufactured housing. This approval expired on
			 October 4, 2015. Since Arkansas weatherized only small multi-family housing and
			 this building type constituted less than twenty percent (20%) of total
			 wcathcrization in the state, Arkansas did not seek approval to use NEAT for
			 multi-family wcathcrization. Under Arkansas" current agreement with DOE, the
			 project officer must approve audit of each multi-family project prior to
			 wcathcrization. Arkansas will submit necessary materials from the audit to DOE
			 on a case-by-casc basis.
AEO has signed MOUs with both the local-level HUD Office and the
			 ESDA Rural Development Office to develop partnerships with a goal of
			 weathcrizing multi-family complexes throughout the state of Arkansas. The AEO
			 will utilize IIED\s pre-approved list for multi-family complexes and ESDA Rural
			 Development is offering funds for a blended service approach. Arkansas will
			 give top priority to properties on the HE'D pre-approved list and will screen
			 any potential multi-family project for energy savings potential prior to
			 conducting a full audit.
Final Inspection
Inspection and Monitoring of Work Using Guidelines and
			 Standards
DOE requires that Quality Control Inspectors possess the
			 knowledge, skills and abilities outlined in the National Renewable Energy
			 Laboratory (NREL) Job Task Analysis for Quality Control Inspectors. This
			 requirement applies to all individuals who perform a final inspection on and
			 sign off on work performed in homes including final inspectors and state
			 monitoring staff.
For PY 2016 Arkansas will continue to ensure that Quality Control
			 Inspector (QCI) competency is demonstrated by mandating certification as a Home
			 Energy Professional (HEP) QCI. The state requires that each subgrantee employ
			 or contract with a HEP QCI. Subgrantccs must submit to AEO the credentials of
			 all staff employed as a QCI and of any third parly organizations engaged to
			 conduct quality control inspections. AFX) will employ a certified QCI on staff
			 or issue a Request for Qualifications to secure services of a third party
			 certified QCI.
AEO's Final Inspection & Assurance
			 Statement
Beginning in Program Year 2015, AFX) has required that every DOE
			 WAP unit reported as a "completed unit" undergo a final inspection by a
			 certified QCI ensuring that all work meets the minimum specifications outlined
			 in the Standard Work Specifications developed by DEO/NREL.
* Every client file will have a form that certifies that the unit
			 had a final inspection and that all work met the required standards. 'The
			 certification will be signed by a certified QCI. Signatures will be accepted to
			 demonstrate compliance. If a unit, inspected by the subgrantee QCI, is also
			 inspected by the state, two certification forms will be available in the client
			 file - one for each inspection.
* The Quality Control Inspection includes an assessment of the
			 original audit to confirm that the measures called for on the work order are
			 appropriate and compliant with the state audit procedures and protocols
			 approved by DOT and that there arc no "missed measures" which should have been
			 considered.
The Usc of Quality Control Inspectors
Arkansas Subgrantees have one (1) or two (2) certified QCls on
			 staff as of July 1, 201 5. AHO has monitored at least ten percent (10%) of all
			 units reported as complete in PY 2015. This practice will continue in PY 2016
			 until AIT) can verify that each agency has a completely independent QC1 process
			 from its energy auditing function.
Policy
&
Procedures for Inadequate
			 Inspection Practices
* Agency QC1 accompanies state/third party QC1 to learn first
			 hand of any deficiencies in the agency inspection and audit.
* State/third parly QCJ provides feedback during the
			 inspection.
* QCI addresses incomplete and poor workmanship as well as missed
			 opportunities on site and in reports. Needed Tier 2 training delivered in the
			 field as soon as possible.
* QCI identifies call backs and missed opportunities and request
			 corrective actions at agency's expense.
Improvements are expected or AIT) will meet with agency
			 administration to review expectation and discuss corrective action
			 plans.
Quality Assurance Inspection form: WAP 08
Weathcrization Analysis of
			 Effectiveness
The State of Arkansas is concerned that all entities that
			 participate in the program be qualified and has sufficient ability to
			 effectively deliver a quality product to the citizens of Arkansas. The
			 following evaluation system has been developed to analyze current subgrantce
			 performance and to assess viability for continued participation in the
			 wcatherization program.
*
On-site Inspections of Weatherized Units:
A QCI
			 will inspect a minimum often percent (10%) of completed units for each
			 subgrantce. (Sec previous Pinal Inspection section).
*
Monitoring:
At the beginning of PY 2016, ATO will
			 conduct a risk assessment of each agency. Monitoring will be scheduled, with
			 agencies at increased risk monitored more frequently. Higher risk monitoring
			 scheduled will be monthly or quarterly. Tower risk scheduled will be
			 semi-annual or annual. Visits will focus on fiscal and administrative
			 compliance with all applicable federal and state WAP rules and regulations,
			 findings will be tracked with corrective action responses. Any patterns will be
			 noted and addressed.
*
CPA Audits:
Hach subgrantce must submit a
			 financial audit within three (3) months of the end of their fiscal year. Audits
			 will be reviewed.
*
Productivity:
Charting of actual production
			 compared to each subgrantee's wcathcrization plan will be reviewed
			 monthly.
*
Analyses using ECOS:
With the implementation of
			 l.COS in PY 201 5, AfX) has expanded capability to track subgrantee progress.
			 Due to the learning curve for implementation, evaluative capabilities have not
			 yet been explored. In PY 2016, these capabilities will be explored:
* Information dashboard: findings by subgrantee, measure,
			 contractor reworks and disallowances: training needs including Tier 1 and tier
			 2 based on findings, results and priorities.
* ECOS allows for the development of comparison charts to show
			 productivity levels, spending and energy savings between subgrantccs.
* AEO implemented self-assessment of employees based on KSAs
			 required by the WAP position in which they are employed. Wcathcri/ation
			 directors use these self-assessments to build their training plan.
* Competitive procurement of labor and materials for PY 2016 is
			 required prior to July 1, 2016. AfX) oversight of this process will be
			 especially focused on agencies cited for poor workmanship.
Health and Safety
			 Plans
Please sec 2014 Arkansas Operations .Manual, Chapter 7, Technical
			 Standards and Best Practices for Arkansas's WAP 1 Icalth and Safety plan. 1
			 listorieally, Arkansas has limited 1 Iealth and Safety investment to fifteen
			 percent (15%) of the average cost per unit (ACPU). However, implementation of
			 ASIIRAK 62.2 is increasing 1 Iealth and Safety expenditures.
Program Management
Overview and Organization
Since 2013, the wcathcrization program has been administered by
			 the Arkansas Ixonomic Development Commission Arkansas Kncrgy Office (AfX)), an
			 independent state agency. The organizational chart shows WAP as a unit under
			 the Director of AfX). Connection to the State Kncrgy Program allows for the
			 exchange of ideas beneficial to WAP.
Administrative Expenditure Limits
In PY 2015, AfX) granted small increases in administration funds
			 to subgrantccs receiving less than $350,000; these increases were provided with
			 PY 2014 carry over funds, for PY 2016, AfX) is assessing the needs of smaller
			 subgrantccs by looking at approved federal indirect cost rates, if any, and
			 specific personnel needs. However, AfX) docs not anticipate granting ten
			 percent (10%) in administration funds to the network but rather smaller
			 increases where needed.
Monitoring Activities
To ensure quality workmanship throughout the State, the APX)
			 implements a comprehensive project and program compliance monitoring strategy.
			 The WAP Network of subgrantees provides access to weatherization services in
			 each of the state's seventy-five (75) counties based on the relative need of
			 the low-income population residing in each county of their service area.
Monitoring consists of onsitc visits to subgrantees to review
			 program administration and compliance functions as well as field visits to
			 inspect weathcrized homes. The state performs annual Program Compliance
			 Monitoring, including a review of fiscal and administrative systems to assure
			 compliance with all applicable rules and regulations. Program Monitors Quality
			 Control Inspectors conduct monitoring and technical assistance centered on
			 monthly site visits to work sites and completed weathcrized homes during
			 several phases of project implementation.
AEO's Final Inspection & Assurance
			 Statement
Beginning in Program Year 2016, the Arkansas Pncrgy Office will
			 require that every 1)01', WAP unit reported as a "completed unit" undergoes a
			 final inspection by a certified QCI ensuring that all work meets the minimum
			 specifications outlined in the SWS in accordance with 10 OR 440.
Click here
			 to view image
Inspection of Weatherized Homes
Program monitoring consists of the inspection of recently
			 weatherized houses. Some subgranlecs will be monitored each quarter, while
			 others are monitored more (or less) frequently depending on production and
			 identified needs to address quality and/or health and safety concerns. The goal
			 will be to inspect ten percent (10%) of weatherized homes for each subgrantcc:
			 however, AHO will monitor additional units in progress to ensure work quality:
			 therefore, if deficiencies are noted, the percentage could increase.
Quality Control Monitoring
AEO Program Monitors and Quality Control Inspectors will
			 accompany subgrantcc crews and contractors as they conduct final quality
			 control inspections. This provides the opportunity for the AEO to provide
			 technical assistance with weatherization techniques such as CAZ (combustion
			 appliance zone) and air scaling.
Vile Review Monitoring
AEO Program Monitors complete an onsite file review for every
			 weatherized home that is inspected.
Lead Safe Weatherization Site Visits
AEO Program Monitors will make periodic unannounced site visits
			 to homes that arc being weatherized to observe that the required lead-safe work
			 practices are being used by crews and contractors. This is an opportunity to
			 clarify and demonstrate best practices related to lead-safe
			 weatherization.
Program Compliance Monitoring
The AEO believes monitoring is an extremely important aspect of
			 weatherization program management. A successful monitoring program improves
			 subgrantcc operations, identifies problems early enough for corrective action,
			 and promotes quality work. The AEO considers monitoring to be an assessment of
			 subgrantcc performance in fulfilling program objectives.
A Program Compliance Monitoring will be conducted annually with
			 each subgrantcc. Program compliance monitoring consists of a review of
			 financial and administrative policies and practices.
The financial review will include a(n):
1. Comparison of the contract files against
		  contract procedures
2. Sampling of
		  journal entries
3. Inventory
		  reconciliation
4. Review of cost
		  categories
5. Assessment of
		  administrative expenses
The program administration review will include a(n):
1. Assessment of how the outreach support
		  level affects the client application process
2. Review of client files for compliance with
		  all federal and state Weatherization Assistance Program rules and regulations
		  regarding mandated documentation of: household income, client certification of
		  eligibility, owner/landlord permission for weatherization, rent declaration,
		  fuel release statement, inspection statement, a complete Building Check &
		  Job Order form, site-specific audit, complete material cost information,
		  funding source designation, final quality control inspection and client
		  release
3. Review of client
		  certification and prioritization system
4. Review of inspection/quality control
		  systems
5. Review of subcontracting
		  system
6. Review of goals for
		  serving elderly, disabled. Native Americans, and renters
7. Review of procurement systems
A minimum often percent (10%) of the client files of all DOE
			 units completed in the twelve (12) months prior to the program compliance
			 monitoring visit will be examined. The AEO staff will review subgrantec
			 management systems to ensure compliance with rules, regulations, and mandated
			 file documentation. Material records shall be examined and inventory will be
			 inspected to verify adherence to federal specifications. The financial review
			 will encompass the examination of all completed programs not previously
			 reviewed.
AEO will issue a report to the Agency Executive Director and the
			 Wcatherization Program Director detailing the monitoring findings if any, along
			 with recommendations for subgrantec improvement. The subgrantec is required to
			 respond within fifteen (1 5) working days with a corrective action plan that
			 includes steps to be taken to address findings identified during the onsitc
			 monitoring. AfX) Program Monitors and Budget Specialist will follow-up during
			 onsitc visits to ensure that the corrective actions arc implemented as
			 directed.
Resolution Strategies
Monitoring reports list recommendations and or required actions
			 when deficiencies, issues, and/or concerns arc found. Kacb recommendation and
			 required action is based on policies, procedures and/or regulations which are
			 quoted in the left column of the monitoring letter.
Please see Subgrantec Operations Manual (pages 91-101) for how
			 agencies receive ratings based on performance. The Subgrantecs Operations
			 Manual also outlines the steps to be taken for disciplinary action and/or
			 removal of a subgrantec on page 104.
Training and Technical Assistance
Continuing in PY 2016, the state Training Plan will require
			 comprehensive training for all WAP workers. Training is aligned with the
			 National Renewable Kncrgy Tab (NREL) Job Task Analysis (JTA) for the position
			 in which the worker is employed.
The Training Plan will address two distinct categories: Tier 1
			 and Tier 2 Training. The plan reflects feedback from the DOE field visits,
			 Arkansas monitoring visits, and contractor analysis.
Tier 1 Training: Comprehensive, occupation-specific training
			 which follows a curriculum aligned with the JTA for the occupation. The Tier 1
			 training will be administered by the Interstate Renewable Knergy Council (IRKC)
			 training provider for the JTA being taught. All Wcatherization staff will
			 receive Tier 1 training.
Installers
Tier 1
* Site Built (Retrofit Installer) Feb. 2016
* Wcathcrizalion 1 lealth & Safety
* Mobile Home
* Air-sealing & Insulating the Attic/Crawl Space
Tier 2
(Focus areas identified via DOH and Stale
			 monitoring visits)
* Codes and Standards
* Air-sealing & Insulating the Attic/Crawl Space
Crew Leaders
Tier 1
* Reviewing the Workplan
* Strategies for Corrective Actions
* Client Relations & Communication Skills
* Advanced CAZ Testing
* Blower Door Resting
Tier 2
* Lead & Proper Containment
* Photographic Documentation (lead and attic/crawl space
			 air-scaling)
* Test Out
Auditors
Tier 1
* Modeling the Building
* Testing the Building (CAZ, IR, Zonal, etc.)
* HA Training
* ECOS Data Collection (Input Forms) & Avoiding Missed
			 Opportunities
* Evaluating Data Collection
* ECOS EA Training
* ASHRAE 62.2 2016
* Identifying the IIVAC pre-conditions
* Manual J, S, & D
* Identifying II & S needs
* Fan Flow Metering
* Mobile Home Insulation
* SWS & Local Codes
* QCI Training
* Duct Scaling
* Developing a Good Workplan (using the floorplan)
Tier 2
* ASHRAE 62.2 2016
* Zonal Pressure Diagnostics and Air Sealing
* 1R Camera and Insulation assessment techniques
* OSHA 10 and EPA lead certification
* Duct Scaling
* QCI Training
* Beware of the Bypass
Quality Control
			 Inspector
Tier 1
* Crew Leader
* Mobile Home Insulation
* Air-sealing and Insulating the Crawl Space
* Conducting Quality Checks
* Identifying Pass/Pair Installations
* Duct Scaling
* Air-sealing & Insulating the Crawl Space
* BPI CEU's
* Radon
* Auditor
* Advanced CAZ
* Quality Control Inspector
* ASIIRAK 62.2 2016
Tier 2
* ASIIRAK 62.2 2016
* Zonal Pressure Diagnostics and Air Scaling
* 1R camera and Insulation assessment techniques
* Air-sealing and Insulating the Crawl Space
* Conducting Quality Checks
* Identifying Pass/1''ail Installations
* Duct Scaling
* Air-scaling & Insulating the Crawl Space
Quality Control Inspectors completed the required continuing
			 education units to maintain BPI certification during Arkansas Wcatheri/ation
			 Training Conference October, 2015, and Grants Guidance, March, 2016.
Wcatheri/ation Directors or Financial
			 Managers
Although there arc no Tier 1 or Tier 2 requirements as stated in
			 WPN 15-4 for Weathcrization Directors or financial Managers, Arkansas developed
			 training for these positions. Arkansas identified specific duties for each
			 position and corresponding KSAs.
Wcathcrization Directors
* Procurement & 2 CFR 200
* Evaluating Contractor Performance
* Reporting/File Maintenance
* Quality Work Plan
* Client Education Strategy
* Coding Tasks for Billing
* Rules, Regulations & WPNs
* Specialized Contractor (IIVAC): Repair or Replace
Tier 2
* WAP Administrative Training
* OMB Circular training
* Field Inspections
* Accompanying the Auditor
* Quality Checks with the QC1
Financial Managers
* 2 CFR 200 Training
* JAI Hilling
* ECOS Budget Amendments
* Minimizing Budgetary Errors
The actual training offerings for PY 2016 will be discussed with
			 Wcathcrization Directors and PTC WTC staff and scheduled at the beginning ofPY
			 2016. The agencies will prc-registcr their staff at the time the training
			 schedule is developed. At the present time, there arc no certifications
			 required prior to subgrantccs hiring staff. Agencies are encouraged to hire the
			 best trained personnel available and to grant a salary increase upon successful
			 completion of a required certification. Arkansas is preparing to focus on
			 developing certified energy auditors for each subgrantcc.
Subgrantee Monitoring
Two Program Monitors and a Budget Specialist arc responsible for
			 monitoring and evaluating the operation of the WAP program at the subgrantee
			 level as outlined in the State Plan.
Technical Assistance
Each wcathcrization subgrantcc is assigned a WAP Program Monitor
			 who accompanies the state's certified QC1. The certified QC1 completes the
			 inspection and technical assistance activities which arc a part of the Program
			 Monitoring and Compliance Strategy. Technical assistance provided may include
			 but is not limited to: staff training, policy interpretation, state plan
			 clarification, working with subgrantccs to address deficiencies in the energy
			 audit and workmanship, and training subgrantccs on wcathcrization
			 techniques.
AEO Staff Training
Training is essential for staff development and is provided on an
			 ongoing basis to upgrade the quality of service delivered by the WAP Program
			 Monitors. One monitor is working to complete the QCI training and become a
			 Certified Home Energy Professional QCI. Monitors are also expected to research
			 and attend training opportunities offered through the Arkansas WAP Training
			 Center, which will enable them to gain additional knowledge and skills in
			 wcathcrization technology, IIVAC technology, and diagnostic equipment. AKO
			 staff attend the semi-annual conferences provided by NASCSP which includes DOE
			 staff
Lead Safe Weatherization Training
Subgrantee staff and contractors are required to have and to
			 update Lead Safe Certification. This training is readily available in the
			 community.
State Technical Working Group
The Wcathcrization Director or designee from each subgrantee will
			 attend meetings with the AKO WAP staff to discuss technical issues, specific
			 problems, innovative solutions, and program direction. The Wcathcrization
			 Training ("enter. WAP Directors and Technical Program Monitor will make up the
			 State Technical Working Croup which will continue to meet at least quarterly.
			 Current projects arc 1) updating the task codes in KCOS preparatory to
			 subgrantee procurement for PY 2016 and 2) reviewing the SWS to identify
			 Arkansas variances which will be submitted to DOE for approval.
Arkansas's WAP Training Center
The accredited training component of the DOE Guidelines for Home
			 Knergy Professionals project guarantees the existence and availability of high
			 quality standardized training programs within the home energy upgrade industry.
			 To ensure that Arkansas is in compliance with these guidelines, the state has
			 contracted with the Center for Applied Building Science at Pulaski Technical
			 College to provide certified Tier 1 classes and Tier 2 training in the field
			 and classroom that has been identified as needed through DOE and state
			 monitoring.
The Center for Applied Building Science at Pulaski Technical
			 College is accredited by the Interstate Renewable Knergy Council (IREC). The
			 accredited training program ensures that individuals receive the proper
			 training to become certified Home Energy Professionals and to do the quality
			 work that is defined in the standard work specifications. The Center for
			 Applied Building Science at Pulaski Technical College has provided
			 wcathcrization training classes including: Installer fundamentals, Installer
			 Intermediate. Crew Chief, Knergy Auditor, Mobile Home Wcathcrization. Home
			 Knergy Auditing, CAZ, Lead-safe Wcathcrization, and Renovate Right Protocol
			 (RRP).
Ongoing training and direct technical assistance will be provided
			 on subjects such as Combustion Appliance Zone (CAZ) testing, air sealing
			 techniques, implementation of ASIIRAK 62.2, identification of health and safety
			 conditions such as mold and moisture, and the OSI1A 10 and 30 hour training
			 courses. These trainings will be provided at least once to each subgrantee in
			 the PY 2016.
First priority to attend the trainings is reserved for the
			 Arkansas WAP subgrantee staff and contractors, braining is delivered through a
			 site-based center in North Kittle Rock, Arkansas and a mobile training lab. The
			 schedule through June 30, 2017 is not finalized but will include testing for
			 the Home Knergy Professional Quality Control Inspector and Knergy
			 Auditor.
Subgrantee 'Training and Technical Assistance
			 (T&TA)
Kach subgrantee will receive an allocation of T&TA funds to
			 provide training for their wcathcrization staff and/or contractors or to pay
			 for travel to training and any registration fees incurred. Arkansas uses a
			 retention agreement that contractors must sign if Subgrantces pay for them to
			 attend WAP training.
Consumer Education and Outreach
The educational component has been designed to enhance program
			 participants' understanding of home energy efficiency improvements, to increase
			 energy savings, and to contribute to the ongoing effectiveness of installed
			 wcatherization measures. Educational materials have been prepared and
			 distributed by AEO (e.g., a calendar with tips to save energy, various
			 publications) and training has been provided to our subgrantces. AEO will
			 continue to require WAP subgrantces to provide client education to each WAP
			 client. Subgrantces will be required to provide, at a minimum, education
			 verbally to the client along with any leave-behind materials the Subgrantee
			 finds helpful to their clients.
Energy Crisis and Disaster
			 Plan
Arkansas will not use any grant funds for energy crisis relief
			 during the 2016 Program Year.