040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110-112 Broad Street.pdf

M E M O R A N D U M

TO: Prospective Proposers

FROM: Becky Smyth, Purchasing Director

RE: Request for Proposal - #040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110 – 112 Broad Street

DATE: August 11, 2025

Enclosed you will find the necessary information for preparing and submitting your bid for the Right to Acquire and Develop 110 – 112 Broad Street for the City of Rome Georgia.

A site visit will be held on September 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at 110 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161. Interested parties are urged to attend this meeting.

The deadline for submitting your bid is September 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Proposals must be submitted in sealed hardcopy format as instructed in Section 5. Electronic submissions (including BidNet uploads) are not accepted for this solicitation.

All questions regarding the proposal should be submitted to Jackson Abercrombie at jabercrombie@romega.us no later than September 16, at 5:00 p.m.

If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to call my office at 706-236-4410.

BBS/jga ___________________________ Becky Smyth Purchasing Director mailto:jabercrombie@romega.us

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROPOSAL SIGNATURE AND CERTIFICATION 3

CORPORATE CERTIFICATE 4

OFFEROR’S RFP CHECKLIST 5

SECTION 1: SCOPE OF WORK 6

SECTION 2: CONTENTS OF PROPOSAL 8

SECTION 3: PROPOSED TIMELINE 17

SECTION 4: PRE-SUBMITTAL INQUIRIES 18

SECTION 5: SUBMITTAL OF PROPOSALS 19

SECTION 6: CONTENTS OF PROPOSALS, EVALUATION AND SCORING 20

SECTION 7: TERMS AND CONDITIONS 23

SECTION 8: INSTRUCTIONS FOR OFFERORS 25

SECTION 9: REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFERORS 26

SECTION 10: NOTICE TO OFFERORS 27

SECTION 11: REQUIRED FORMS 28

PROPOSAL SIGNATURE AND CERTIFICATION

(FAILURE TO INCLUDE THIS SIGNED CERTIFICATION MAY RESULT IN THE REJECTION OF YOUR

PROPOSAL.)

We propose to furnish and deliver any and all of the deliverables and services named in the attached

Request for proposals RFP 040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110-112 Broad Street. The price or prices offered herein shall apply for the period of time stated in the (“RFP”).

It is understood and agreed that this proposal constitutes an offer, which when accepted in writing by the Purchasing Department, City of Rome, and subject to the terms and conditions of such acceptance, will constitute a valid and binding contract between the undersigned and the City of Rome (“City”).

It is understood and agreed that the undersigned has read the City’s specifications shown or referenced in the RFP and that this proposal is made in accordance with the provisions of such specifications. By our written signature on this proposal, we guarantee and certify that all items included in this proposal meet or exceed any and all such City specifications described in this RFP. We further agree, if awarded a contract, to deliver goods and services which meet or exceed the specifications. The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive technicalities, and informalities, and to make an award in the best interest of the City.

It is understood and agreed that this proposal shall be valid and held open for a period of one hundred twenty (120) days from proposal opening date.

PROPOSAL SIGNATURE AND CERTIFICATION

I certify that this proposal is made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a proposal (“Offeror”) for the same materials, supplies, equipment, or services and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. I understand collusive bidding is a violation of state and federal law and can result in fines, prison sentences, and civil damage awards. I agree to abide by all conditions of the proposal and certify that I am authorized to sign this proposal for the Offeror. I further certify that the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 45-10-20, et seq. have not been violated and will not be violated in any respect.

Authorized Signature for Offeror _________________________________________________________

Date ________________________________________________________________________________

Print / Type Name _____________________________________________________________________

Print / Type Offeror Name ______________________________________________________________

CORPORATE CERTIFICATE

I, ____________________, certify that I am the Secretary of the company named as Offeror in the foregoing proposal; that ______________________, who signed said proposal on behalf of the Offeror, was then__________________________ (title) of said company; that said proposal was duly signed for and on behalf of said company by authority of its Board of Directors, and is within the scope of its corporate powers; that said company is organized under the laws of the State of Georgia or is duly authorized to do business in the State of Georgia.

This _____________ day of _________________________, 2025.

(Company – Legal Corporate Name)

(Signature)

(Title)

(Seal)

OFFEROR’S RFP CHECKLIST

Critical Things to Keep in Mind When Responding to an RFP for the City of Rome

1. _______ Read the entire document. Note critical items such as: supplies/services required; submittal dates; number of copies required for submittal; contract requirements, if any (e.g. bonding and insurance requirements).

2. _______ Note the Purchasing Agent’s name, address, and e-mail address. This is the only person you are allowed to communicate with regarding the RFP and is an excellent source of information.

3. _______ Attend the pre-submittal conference, if scheduled. These conferences provide an opportunity to ask clarifying questions, obtain a better understanding of the project, or notify the City of any ambiguities, inconsistencies, or errors in the RFP.

4. _______ Take advantage of the “question and answer” period. Submit your questions on the BidNet Direct platform by the due date listed on the cover page and in the proposed timeline and view the answers given in the formal “addenda” issued for the RFP. All addenda issued for an RFP will be posted on the City’s BidNet Direct webpage https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome under the corresponding RFP#.

5. _______ Follow the format required in the RFP when preparing a proposal. Provide point-by-point responses to all sections in a clear and concise manner.

6. _______ Provide complete answers/descriptions. Read and answer all questions and requirements. Don’t assume the City will know what your company’s capabilities are or what items/services you can provide, even if you have previously contracted with the City. Proposals are evaluated based solely on the information and materials provided in response to the RFP.

7. _______ Use the forms provided with the RFP, if any.

8. _______ Check the RFP for any addenda. Before submitting your proposal, check the City’s BidNet Direct website at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome to see whether any addenda were issued for the RFP.

9. _______ Review the RFP document again to make sure that you have addressed all requirements. Your original proposal and the requested copies must be identical and complete. Any copies requested are provided to individuals, if any, evaluating proposals and will be used to rank your submittal.

10. _______ Submit your proposal on time. Note all the dates and times listed in the Schedule of Events and within the document, and be sure to submit all required items on time. Late proposals will not be accepted.

This checklist is provided for assistance only and should not be submitted with your proposal.

https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome

RFP # 040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110 – 112 Broad Street

Section 1 – Scope of Work

Introduction and Summary

The City of Rome is accepting proposals from qualified individuals or firms for the right to acquire and develop 110-112 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30165. Aspiring business owners or established business owners looking to open a Rome location are invited to submit their business proposals for an opportunity to open a new business at 110-112 Broad Street, located in the heart of Downtown Rome, Georgia. The building has great potential but will require updates and renovations before it can be occupied. The property included in this RFP is owned solely by the City of Rome and is Parcel

Identification Number (PIN) as found on the Floyd County Tax Map: J14D089.

While financial considerations will be reviewed, the primary focus of this RFP is on the proposed use, redevelopment plan, and alignment with the mission of Downtown Rome and the Downtown

Development Authority (DDA). The city seeks a proposal that not only enhances the economic vitality of the district but also contributes meaningfully to its historic character and charm.

The DDA’s mission—aligned with Georgia’s broader Downtown Development efforts—is to:

"Revitalize, enhance, and stimulate economic development while maintaining the historical integrity and charm of the downtown districts. These initiatives aim to create vibrant communities by promoting economic growth, supporting small businesses, and providing a positive roadmap for public-private partnerships." Proposals that embrace this vision will receive priority consideration.

About Downtown Rome, GA

The downtown district is comprised of Historic Broad Street and the River District along North 5th

Avenue and West 3rd Street. There are 53 retailers, 33 food and drink establishments, 14 salons, and 3 hotels. Downtown is home to 234 residential units and counting. The River District will soon house an additional 250 residential units on West 3rd Street.

Overview

This process is designed to identify and support innovative, sustainable business concepts that will contribute to the continued growth and vitality of Downtown Rome. More than just a transaction, this opportunity reflects the City’s commitment to cultivating development that is economically sound, community-focused, and consistent with the long-term vision for the district.

Proposals will be evaluated not solely on financial terms, but more importantly on how well they align with the mission and values of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA):

Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Mission

• Promote revitalization and enhancement of the historic downtown

• Encourage sustainable economic development

• Support small businesses and tourism

• Foster public-private partnerships

• Maintain historical integrity and charm

Ideal proposals will introduce offers not currently present in the downtown area, filling unmet needs and enriching the overall business mix. Selected finalists will be invited to present their concepts to a review committee composed of City staff and local business leaders, who will evaluate each proposal for its long-term vision, community benefit, and compatibility with Rome’s unique downtown character.

Additional Documents Included

• Drawings of the Space

• Current Inspection Report of the Building

Why 110 – 112 Broad Street

Located in the heart of Downtown Rome on the iconic 100 block of Broad Street, this property sits in one of the city's most walkable, visible, and historically rich corridors. The building offers not only a prime location but also a rare opportunity to contribute to the continued revitalization of Rome’s historic core. Surrounded by a diverse mix of thriving local retailers, restaurants, salons, and residences, 110–112 Broad Street is ideally positioned for a new business to make a lasting impact.

With its architectural charm and deep connection to the city’s heritage, this site is perfect for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to become a central part of the downtown experience— helping shape the future while honoring the past. The community, city leadership, and Downtown

Development Authority are actively engaged and ready to support ventures that align with Rome’s vision for vibrant, sustainable, and historically grounded growth.

Section 2 – Contents of Proposals

The City of Rome intends to award a contract or contracts for the sale and development of the advertised property to a qualified individual, firm, or firms whose response, together with any information developed in any follow-up oral interview, provides the greatest value to the City of Rome.

Responders will be evaluated on the basis of information provided in their response (together with any such interview and site plan), which response shall, at a minimum, include the following information:

1. Firm name, address, nature of entity (partnership, corporation, joint venture, etc.), and general background. This section should include a brief history of the company, office locations, and company executives.

2. Organizational profile/chart.

3. Ownership of the Firm.

4. Provide name of owner, contact person, telephone number, and name of person responsible for your firm. Project team members that will be assigned to this development must be identified clearly, including their team roles and qualifications. The resumes of all key staff must be included. If partnering with other firms is proposed, identify project team members and roles for all participants.

5. Please provide at least five (5) professional and/or personal references, including the nature and duration of your relationship with each individual.

6. Financial statements of the company for the past five (5) years may be requested by the review committee as part of the review process.

7. Have you ever been sued or subjected to arbitration? If so, state the name and address of the party asserting a claim against you, and the nature and outcome of the dispute.

8. Have you, or any of your employees, ever filed for bankruptcy, been declared insolvent, or otherwise been involved in insolvency proceedings?

9. Is your firm bondable for the full cost of the project?

10. State a lump sum amount for property being purchased and method of payment, state any assistance that may be required from the City of Rome.

11. Provide plans of clearly dimensioned drawings showing the site plan, building footprints, floor plans, and elevations / architectural renderings.

12. Provide any and all additional information which you believe is pertinent to your evaluation by the Evaluation Team.

13. Proposed start and completion date for the project.

14. Total estimated value of the proposed development.

15. Describe how your business concept:

• Complements the historic character of Downtown Rome

• Enhances the diversity and vibrancy of the existing business mix

• Supports the mission of the DDA and Georgia Main Street Program

• Will contribute to public-private collaboration and/or community engagement

• Addresses long-term goals like tourism growth, walkability, or cultural enrichment

• will add unique value to Downtown Rome and how it will add to Downtown’s already vibrant economy.

16. Submit a detailed business proposal outlining your vision for the business, including how it aligns with the existing business mix of Downtown Rome.

17. Submit a detailed Business Plan

Business Plan **The Outline Provided is intended as guidance**

--Executive Summary--

The executive summary should briefly explain each of the below

• An overview of your business

• Business idea explained in a few sentences

• A description of your product and/or service

• What problems are you solving for your target customers?

• Your goals for the business

• Where do you expect the business to be in one year, three years, and five years?

• Your proposed target market

• Who are your ideal customers?

• Your competition and what differentiates your business

• Who are you up against, and what unique selling proposition will help you succeed?

• Your management team and their prior experience

• What do they bring to the table that will give your business a competitive edge?

• Financial outlook for the business

--Company Description--

• Company Mission Statement

• A mission statement is a brief explanation of your company’s reason for being

• Company Philosophy and Vision

• What values does your business live by?

• Vision refers to the long-term outlook for your business. What do you ultimately want it to become?

• Company Goals

• Specify your long- and short-term goals as well as any milestones or benchmarks you will use to measure your progress.

• Target Market

• You will cover this in-depth in the Marketing Plan section. Here, briefly explain who your target customers are.

• Industry

• Describe your industry and what makes your business competitive: Is the industry growing, mature or stable? What is the industry outlook long-term and short-term? How will your business take advantage of projected industry changes and trends? What might happen to your competitors and how will your business successfully compete?

• Legal Structure

• Is your business a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership or corporation? Why did you choose this particular form of business?

• If there is more than one owner, explain how ownership is divided. If you have investors, explain the percentage of shares they own. This information is important to investors and lenders.

--Products and Services--

This section expands on the basic information about your products and services included in the Executive Summary and Company Description. Here are some items to consider:

• Your Company’s Products and/or Services

• What do you sell, and how is it manufactured or provided? Include details of relationships with suppliers, manufacturers and/or partners that are essential to delivering the product or service to customers.

• The problem the product or service solves

• Every business needs to solve a problem that its customers face. Explain what the problem is and how your product or service solves it. What are its benefits, features and unique selling proposition? Yours won’t be the only solution

(every business has competitors), but you need to explain why your solution is better than the others, targets a customer base your competitors are ignoring, or has some other characteristic that gives it a competitive edge.

• Any proprietary features that give you a competitive advantage

• Do you have a patent on your product or a patent pending? Do you have exclusive agreements with suppliers or vendors to sell a product or service that none of your competitors sell? Do you have the license for a product, technology or service that’s in high demand and/or short supply?

• How You Will Price Your Product or Service

• Describe the pricing, fee, subscription or leasing structure of your product or service. How does your product or service fit into the competitive landscape in terms of pricing—are you on the low end, mid-range or high end? How will that pricing strategy help you attract customers? What is your projected profit margin?

--Marketing Plan--

This section provides details on your industry, the competitive landscape, your target market and how you will market your business to those customers.

• Market Research

There are two kinds of research: primary and secondary. Primary market research is information you gather yourself. This could include going online or driving around town to identify competitors; interviewing or surveying people who fit the profile of your target customers; or doing traffic counts at a retail location you’re considering.

Secondary market research is information from sources such as trade organizations and journals, magazines and newspapers, Census data and demographic profiles. You can find this information online, at libraries, from chambers of commerce, from vendors who sell to your industry or from government agencies.

This section should explain:

• The total size of your industry

• Trends in the industry – is it growing or shrinking?

• The total size of your target market, and what share is realistic for you to obtain

• Trends in the target market – is it growing or shrinking? How are customer needs or preferences changing?

• Barriers to Entry

What barriers to entry does your startup face, and how do you plan to overcome them?

Barriers to entry might include:

• High startup costs

• High production costs

• High marketing costs

• Brand recognition challenges

• Finding qualified employees

• Need for specialized technology or patents

• Tariffs and quotas

• Unionization in your industry

• Product/Service Solution, Features, and benefits

Describe all of your products or services, being sure to focus on the customer’s point of view.

For each product or service:

• Describe the most important features. What is special about it?

• Describe the most important benefits. What does it do for the customer?

In this section, explain any after-sale services you plan to provide, such as:

• Product delivery

• Warranty/guarantee

• Service contracts

• Ongoing Support

• Training

• Refund Policy

• Target Customers

Describe your target customer.

You may have more than one target customer group. For instance, if you sell a product to consumers through distributors, such as retailers, you have at least two kinds of target customers: the distributors (businesses) and the end users (consumers).

Identify your target customer groups, and create a demographic profile for each group that includes:

For customers that are direct consumers

• Age

• Gender

• Occupation

• Location

• Income

• Education Level

For customers that are businesses

• Industry

• Location

• Size

• Stage in business (startup, growing, mature)

• Key Competitors and Alternatives

Every business has competitors. Your plan must show that you’ve identified yours and understand how to differentiate your business. This section should:

List key companies that compete with you (including names and locations), products that compete with yours and/or services that compete with yours. Do they compete across the board, or just for specific products, for certain customers or in certain geographic areas?

Also include indirect competitors. For instance, if you’re opening a restaurant that relies on consumers’ discretionary spending, then bars and nightclubs are indirect competitors.

• Unique Value Proposition / Advantage

Now that you’ve assessed your industry, product/service, customers and competition, you should have a clear understanding of your business’s niche (your unique segment of the market) as well as your positioning (how you want to present your company to customers).

• How Will You Market Your Product / Service?

In this section, explain the marketing and advertising tactics you plan to use.

Advertising May Include:

• Online

• Print

• Radio

• Cable television

• Out-of-home

Marketing May Include:

● Business website

● Social media marketing

● Email marketing

● Mobile marketing

● Search engine optimization

● Content marketing

● Print marketing materials (brochures, flyers, business cards)

● Public relations

● Trade shows

● Networking

● Word-of-mouth

● Referrals

What image do you want to project for your business brand?

What design elements will you use to market your business? (This includes your logo, signage and interior design.) Explain how they’ll support your brand.

• Promotional Budget

How much do you plan to spend on the marketing and advertising outreach above?

• Before startup (These numbers will go into your startup budget)

• On an ongoing basis (These numbers will go into your operating plan budget)

• Pricing

You explained pricing briefly in the “Products & Services” section; now it’s time to go into more detail. How do you plan to set prices? Keep in mind that few small businesses can compete on price without hurting their profit margins. Instead of offering the lowest price, it’s better to go with an average price and compete on quality and service.

● Does your pricing strategy reflect your positioning?

● Compare your prices with your competitors’. Are they higher, lower or the same?

Why?

● How important is price to your customers? It may not be a deciding factor.

● What will your customer service and credit policies be?

• Location

Why do you believe this is a good location for your business? Focus on the location of your building, not the physical building itself. You’ll discuss that later, in the Operations section.

• Distribution Channels

What methods of distribution will you use to sell your products and/or services? These may include:

• Retail

• Direct Sales

• Ecommerce

• Wholesale

• Inside Sales Force

• Outside Sales Representatives

The Marketing Plan section should describe who your target customers are, how you plan to market to them, what sales and distribution channels you will use, and how you will position your product/service relative to the competition.

--Operational Plan--

This section explains the daily operation of your business, including its location, equipment, personnel and processes. This plan will differ if you are a startup or a business expansion.

1. Production How will you produce your product or deliver your service? Describe your production methods, the equipment you’ll use and how much it will cost to produce what you sell.

2. Quality Control How will you maintain consistency? Describe the quality control procedures you’ll use.

3. Location You briefly touched on this in the Company Overview. In this section, expand on that information with details such as:

▪ The size of your location

▪ The type of building (retail, industrial, commercial, etc.)

▪ Zoning restrictions

▪ Accessibility for customers, employees, suppliers and transportation if necessary

▪ Costs including rent, maintenance, utilities, insurance and any buildout or remodeling costs

▪ Utilities

4. Legal Environment

What type of legal environment will your business operate in? How are you prepared to handle legal requirements? Include details such as:

▪ Any licenses and/or permits that are needed and whether you’ve obtained them

▪ Any trademarks, copyrights or patents that you have or are in the process of applying for

▪ The insurance coverage your business requires and how much it costs

▪ Any environmental, health or workplace regulations affecting your business

▪ Any special regulations affecting your industry

▪ Bonding requirements, if applicable

5. Personnel – Employees and Contractors

What type of Personnel will your business need? Explain details such as:

▪ What types of employees? Are there any licensing or educational requirements?

▪ How many employees will you need?

▪ Will you ever hire freelancers or independent contractors?

▪ Include job descriptions.

▪ What is the pay structure (hourly, salaried, base plus commission, etc.)?

▪ How do you plan to find qualified employees and contractors?

▪ What type of training is needed and how will you train employees?

6. Inventory If your business requires inventory, Explain:

▪ What kind of inventory will you keep on hand (raw materials, supplies, finished products)?

▪ What will be the average value of inventory (in other words, how much are you investing in inventory)?

▪ What rate of inventory turnover do you expect? How does this compare to industry averages?

▪ Will you need more inventory than normal during certain seasons? (For instance, a retailer might need additional inventory for the holiday shopping season.)

▪ What is your lead time for ordering inventory?

7. Suppliers List your key suppliers, including:

▪ Names, addresses, websites

▪ Type and amount of inventory furnished

▪ Their credit and delivery policies

▪ History and reliability

▪ Do you expect any supply shortages or short-term delivery problems? If so, how will you handle them?

▪ Do you have more than one supplier for critical items (as a backup)?

▪ Do you expect the cost of supplies to hold steady or fluctuate? If the latter, how will you deal with changing costs?

▪ What are your suppliers’ payment terms?

--Financial Information--

This section explains the financials of your business in narrative form. Attach your financials in spreadsheet format.

Section 3 – Proposed Timeline (Subject to Change)

Event Date

Site Visit ………………….………………………………………………………………………….. 9/2/2025

Deadline for Receipt of Written Questions .………………………………………………. 9/16/2025

Proposal Response Due Date (Proposal Opening) .……….………………………….. 9/30/2025

*This proposed schedule of events is informational and is subject to change at the discretion of the City of Rome.

Section 4 – Pre-Submittal Inquiries

From the date this RFP is issued until an Offeror is selected, Offerors are not allowed to communicate with any staff or elected officials of the City regarding this procurement. Any unauthorized contact may disqualify the Offeror from further consideration. Contact information for the single point of contact is as follows:

Purchasing Agent: Jackson Abercrombie

Address: 601 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161

Telephone Number: 706-236-4413

E-mail Address: jabercrombie@romega.us

Form of Questions: Offerors with questions or requiring clarification or interpretation of any section within this RFP must submit these questions on the City’s BidNet Direct webpage https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome for this solicitation referenced above on or before the date stipulated in Section 3. Each question must provide clear reference to the section, page, and item of the RFP in question. Questions received after the deadline may not be considered.

The City of Rome’s Answers: The City will provide answers to questions received within the period stipulated in Section 3 by formal written addendum. Any other form of interpretation, correction, or change to this RFP will not be binding upon the City of Rome. Any formal written addendum will be posted on the City’s BidNet Direct webpage alongside the posting of the RFP at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome by the close of business on the date listed.

Offerors shall sign and return any addendum with their proposals.

Addenda: The City of Rome may revise this RFP by issuing an addendum prior to its opening. The addendum will be posted on the City’s BidNet Direct webpage alongside the posting of the RFP at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/cityofrome. Addenda will become part of the proposal documents and subsequent contract. Failure to propose in accordance with an addendum may be cause for rejection. In unusual circumstances, the City of Rome may postpone an opening in order to notify vendors and to give Offerors sufficient time to respond to the addendum.

Section 5 – Submittal of Proposals

A. Proposal Submittal

For a proposal to receive consideration, it must be received prior to the deadline. No proposals will be accepted after the time specified as the deadline for proposals. Vendors can submit responses by paper/hardcopy:

All paper/hardcopy responses must be delivered to:

City of Rome

Purchasing Department

601 Broad Street

Rome, GA 30161

*Clearly marked with the RFP# and RFP Time

By September 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

Proposals received after the specified date and time or at any other location will not be accepted or considered. The City is not responsible for delays caused by traffic, inclement weather or any other reason. The City is not responsible for late deliveries by couriers, the USPS or package express companies (UPS, Fed Ex, etc.). It is the sole responsibility of the Offeror to submit its proposal before the required deadline. Electronic and facsimile submittals will not be accepted. The City of Rome reserves the right to contract in its best interests and to reject any and all proposals prior to award.

All responses must be made in accordance with the specifications as set forth herein. Failure to adhere to any specifications contained herein may be cause for your proposal to be rejected.

B. Form of Proposal

Hard Copy proposals must be presented in a sealed opaque package with the Offerors name, address, RFP#, RFP name, and Due Date/ Time clearly marked on the outside of the package.

Offerors shall submit the one (1) original and seven (7) copies of their proposal to the address set forth on the Cover page. Please include one (1) electronic copy of the RFP.

Section 6: Proposal Evaluation

A. Proposal Evaluation Criteria

Completed applications will be evaluated by the review committee, based on the following categories:

• Concept Desirability, Feasibility, and Viability: How is the business model able to provide a solution that is desirable (it meets a customer need); is feasible (it builds on your operational abilities and assets); and is viable (it is sustainable by generating a profit)? Did the application demonstrate this thoroughly through numbers and facts?

• Marketability: How will/does the product or service appeal to customers? How will/are sales generated? How is the competitive advantage defined?

• Financial Feasibility and Viability: What is the value of the proposed development? What is the financing method? Do the financial projections reflect the sources and uses of funds, and the resources needed for the startup or business expansion?

• Potential Economic Impact: How is the startup or business expansion expected to benefit the

Local Community and Regional Economy?

• Clarity and Comprehensiveness: Is the application information concise, to the point, and well organized? Did the applicant cover all aspects of the business plan? Did they demonstrate a good understanding of the market and knowledge of how the operation of the business will work?

• Experience: What is the capability to develop the project in a timely manner? What is the firm’s past performance in terms of development quality and success? What is the experience of the individual or firm of past performances at other similar projects?

• Price: The Price offered for the property will be one factor, though not the prime factor in this decision.

B. Proposal Evaluation Process

The City of Rome reserves the right to waive any informality or irregularity in any proposal, to reject any and all proposals, to award a proposal wholly or in part, to call for re-bid, and to negotiate with any proposer, if it is deemed in the best interest of the City of Rome to do so. As part of the evaluation process, the proposer may be required to attend one or more meetings with the City of Rome for the purpose of clarifying materials, products, services, and pricing. The selection process may include requests for additional information from individual proposers regarding the proposed materials, products, scope of services, pricing, and product specifications.

Proposals will be evaluated by a committee comprised of City representatives and the Project Steering

Committee. The evaluation process will include review of qualifications, proposed schedule and costs, and other information submitted with the proposal. Non-responsive or incomplete proposals will be rejected for further consideration.

Final selection of the firm will follow a two-step process. First, the qualifications and costs provided under this RFP will be thoroughly reviewed with the top candidate(s) selected by a Review Team.

Second, the top candidate(s) may be interviewed by the Review Team and the finalist selected. The price and project completion timeline are of importance to the City of Rome and may be weighted more heavily in the final award of the contract based upon other criteria. The cost provided is to be a

“not to exceed” lump sum cost. Responses received after the specified time on the specified due date will not be considered.

The City of Rome reserves the right to short-list (up to 2) firms for more detailed technical proposals or schedule interviews with the short-listed firms. The City reserves the right to select the second-rank consultant if negations with the first consultant are unsuccessful.

C. Presentations and Demonstrations

After the initial proposal evaluation, one (1) or more Offerors may be invited to meet with members of the Evaluation Committee for a formal interview to present proposals. At the City’s discretion, selected

Offerors may be interviewed and re-evaluated based upon the criteria set out in the RFP, or other criteria to be determined by the Evaluation Committee (i.e. unique qualities, methodologies, or approaches taken to differentiate from other Offerors). Offerors may be asked to provide additional information to the Evaluation Committee regarding demonstrated competence and qualifications, feasibility of implementing the project as proposed, ability to meet schedules, costing methodology, or other factors as appropriate.

Any information requested by the Evaluation Committee subsequent to the Offeror’s proposal will be used to further evaluate the selected Offerors to determine a rank-order. Final approval of a selected

Offeror is subject to the City’s Purchasing Policies.

Presentations will be held at a time and date that is yet to be determined. Each Offeror invited for formal presentation will be contacted with its scheduled appointment time.

D. Negotiation and Best and Final Offer (as applicable)

1. If the City deems it in its best interest, it has the right to ask one or more proposers to provide a Best and Final Offer (BAFO).

2. If the City deems it is in its best interest to retain the services of one (1) or more Offerors, the City reserves the right to negotiate a revised scope and or fees. Negotiations will encompass all phases of work, including but not limited to: hourly rates, fees for services, markups for overhead and profit on subcontractors, a “not to exceed” contract amount, as well as any other items the City deems appropriate.

3. If negotiations are successful, the City and the highest-ranking Offeror will enter into an agreement to develop the services as outlined in this RFP. If an acceptable agreement cannot be reached between the City and the highest-ranking Offeror, the City may choose to negotiate with other Offeror(s).

4. Separate meetings with more than one (1) Offeror may be conducted during the same time frame; however, negotiation sessions with an Offeror will not be held in the presence of another Offeror.

5. Offerors submitting proposals should be aware that the Evaluation Committee has sole discretion to determine what constitutes the “best value and offer” for the City.

Consequently, Offerors are urged to submit the best possible terms in their original submittal.

Section 7: Terms and Conditions

All proposals and supporting materials as well as correspondence relating to this RFP become property of the City of Rome when received. Any proprietary information contained in the proposal shall be so indicated; however, a general indication that the entire contents, or a major portion, of the proposal is proprietary will not be honored. The following terms and conditions shall also apply:

A. All applicable Federal and State of Georgia laws, City of Rome and Floyd County ordinances, licenses, and regulations of all agencies having jurisdiction shall apply to Offerors throughout and are incorporated herein.

B. Professionals requiring special licenses must be licensed in the State of Georgia, and shall be responsible for those portions of the work as may be required by law.

C. No proposal shall be accepted from, and no contract shall be awarded to, any person, firm, or corporation that (i) is in arrears to the City with respect to any debt, (ii) is in default with respect to any obligation to the City, or (iii) is deemed irresponsible or unreliable by the City.

D. The City shall be able to request the Offerors satisfactory evidence that they have the necessary financial resources to accomplish the requirements of the RFP.

E. From the date this RFP is issued until a firm is selected, Offerors are not allowed to communicate with any staff or elected officials of the City regarding this procurement, except at the direction of

Jackson Abercrombie, Purchasing Agent for the City of Rome and procurement agent in charge of this solicitation. Any unauthorized contact may disqualify the Offeror from further consideration.

Contact information for the single point of contact is as follows:

Purchasing Agent: Jackson Abercrombie

Address: 601 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161

E-mail Address: jabercrombie@romega.us

F. The costs for developing and delivering proposals or other materials in response to this RFP and any subsequent presentations of a proposal as requested by the City are entirely the responsibility of the Offeror. The City is not liable for any expenses incurred by the Offeror in the preparation and presentation of its proposal.

G. While the City has every intention to make an award as a result of this solicitation, issuance of the

RFP in no way constitutes a commitment by the City to award and execute a contract. Upon determination such actions would be in its best interest, the City, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to:

1. Cancel or terminate this RFP at any time. A notice of cancellation will be issued. If the

RFP is cancelled, the 2 will not reimburse any Offeror for preparation of its proposal.

Proposals may be returned upon request if unopened;

2. Reject any or all proposals received, make a contract award based directly on the proposals received in the best interest of the City, in its sole discretion, or enter into further discussions with one (1) or more Offerors;

3. Waive and/or amend any undesirable, inconsequential, or inconsistent provisions/specifications of this RFP which would not have significant impact on any proposal;

H. Contract Term: The contract term shall be as stated in the contract awarded as a result of this procurement.

Section 8

INSTRUCTIONS FOR OFFERORS

I. Proposals must be received by September 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

II. Proposals must be delivered to:

City of Rome

601 Broad Street

Rome, GA 30161

III. Proposals must be sealed and marked:

“RFP # 040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110 – 112 Broad Street”

IV. Proposals must be complete

A. Completed Proposal Form

B. Executed Offeror’s Declaration

All Proposals submitted shall be subject to acceptance or rejection and the City of Rome specifically reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive any technicalities and formalities in the RFP process.

The proposer shall submit all required forms and information simultaneously with sealed proposals, which forms and information become a part of the property of the City of Rome and will not be returned to proposers unless a written request to withdraw is received prior to September 30, 2025, at

2:00 p.m.

Section 9

REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFERORS

These items apply to and become a part of the terms and conditions of the proposer’s proposal. Any exceptions must be in writing.

Notice is hereby given that the City of Rome will receive sealed proposals from interested parties until

September 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.at its offices located at 601 Broad Street, Rome, Georgia 30161.

Any proposals received thereafter will not be considered.

Proposals will be publicly opened and read at the City of Rome Purchasing Department located at 601

Broad Street on the day and at the time specified.

The purchaser may consider as non-responsive, any proposal in which there is an alteration of, or departure from the proposal form hereto attached.

The City of Rome will review and evaluate the RFP responses and determine the firm that demonstrates the greatest capabilities and relevant experience, proposes a reasonable cost, and is the most advantageous in fulfilling the City’s goals for this project. The City of Rome reserves the right to accept, reject, and/or negotiate any or all proposals as determined by them to be in the City’s best interest. The proposer to whom the award is made will be notified at the earliest possible date. The purchaser reserves the right to reject the proposal of a proposer who has previously failed to perform properly or complete on time, contracts of a similar nature, or the proposal of a proposer who, or in the sole opinion and discretion of the purchaser, is not in a position to perform the contract.

Proposals may be withdrawn by written or faxed request, provided such withdrawals are received prior to proposal opening date.

NOTE: Unless stated on the proposal form, the proposal submitted will assume all specifications will be met. Please note on the proposal form all exceptions.

Section 10

NOTICE TO OFFERORS

It is the sole responsibility of the proposer(s) to ensure that proposals reach the Purchasing Department on or before the closing date and time. The City of Rome shall not be held responsible for delays caused by any situation. Offers by telephone, facsimile, or email will not be accepted.

The City of Rome will not be responsible for late deliveries or delayed mail. The proposal opening time shall be strictly observed. Under no circumstances shall proposals delivered after the specified time be considered.

Failure to restrict contacts or discussion regarding this RFP to the City of Rome Purchasing Department will be considered a serious breach of process and may, at the sole discretion of the City of Rome, result in disqualifying the violating party’s firm from further consideration in this RFP opportunity. Additionally, any unauthorized contact with members of the City Commission or City employees by a proposer or a proposer’s representative concerning this proposal may result in the disqualification of the proposer.

The City of Rome reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals, to waive any irregularity in proposals received, to award the entire proposal to one contractor or to make awards by group or by line item whichever is in the best interest of the City of Rome. Additionally, the City of Rome may unilaterally terminate this contract in whole or in part, for its convenience, availability of unobligated funds, or because of failure of the proposer to fulfill the contract obligations in any respect.

SECTION 11 REQUIRED FORMS AND EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT A Offerors Declaration

EXHIBIT B Proposal Form

EXHIBIT A

OFFERORS DECLARATION

The offeror understands, agrees and warrants:

• That the offeror has carefully read and fully understands the full scope of the specifications.

• That the offeror has the capability to successfully undertake and complete the responsibilities and obligations in said specifications.

• That this proposal may be withdrawn by requesting such withdrawal in writing at any time prior to September 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. but may not be withdrawn after such date and time.

• That the City of Rome reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to accept that proposal which will, in its opinion, best serve the public interest. The City of Rome reserves the right to waive any technicalities and formalities in the RFP process.

• That by submission of this proposal the offeror acknowledges that the City of Rome has the right to make any inquiry or investigation it deems appropriate to substantiate or supplement information supplied by the offeror.

• If a partnership, a general partner must sign.

• If a corporation, the authorized corporate officer(s) must sign and the corporate seal must be affixed to this bid.

OFFEROR:

Name Title

Name Title

AFFIX CORPORATE SEAL (If Applicable)

EXHIBIT B

PROPOSAL FORM

TO: City of Rome – Purchasing Department

ATTN: BECKY SMYTH

601 Broad Street Rome, Georgia 30161

BID PKG. “040-25 Right to Acquire and Develop 110 – 112 Broad Street”

Firm Name: ______________________________________________

Price Offered: $___________________

PROPOSAL FORM (continued)

All proposals submitted shall be subject to acceptance or rejection and the City of Rome specifically reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive any technicalities and formalities in the RFP process.

The undersigned understands that any conditions stated above, clarifications made to the above or information other than that requested should be under separate cover and to be considered only at the discretion of the Purchasing Department.

Firm Name: _________________________________

Address: _________________________________

City, State, Zip Code: _________________________________

Phone Number: _________________________________

Email Address: _________________________________

Print Name: _________________________________

Signature: _________________________________

Date: _________________________________

This proposal shall be signed by a representative who is authorized to contractually bind the contractor

Please Attach Company Contact’s Business Card: