Attachment B-Reference Check Form - CCD.pdf

RFP S-12300-00009536 – Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF) - Loan Referral Services Att B

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ATTACHMENT B - REFERENCE CHECK FORM

Proposer Name: Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments

Reference Entity: CCD Business Development Corporation________

Reference Contact Name: Michele Laird_______________________________________

Contact Telephone Number: (541) 756-4101_____________________________________

Contact Email Address: m.laird@ccdbusiness.com__________________

Please respond to the following questions:

1. For what type of services did you engage Proposer?

OCWCOG and CCD have an SBA 504 Marketing and Packaging Contract

OCWCOG and CCD work together in support of OCWCOGs loan programs through a Loan Support and Services Contract

2. Describe the services listed in response to question 1.

OCWCOG markets the SBA 504 loan program on behalf of CCD. They work directly with loan clients and lead lenders to prepare loan applications and closing packages. This partnership has allowed CCD to have a larger footprint across Oregon for the SBA 504 program.

OCWCOG entered a Unity Lending Loan Support & Servies contract with CCD, Mid- Willamette Valley COG and Oregon Cascades West COG. Through this contract CCD provides back-office support for their loan programs. CCD monitors all loan compliance including insurance, financials, property taxes, etc. CCD provides support for loan applications through loan payoff or liquidation, as needed by OCWCOG.

3. Describe Proposer’s customer service.

The consistent and prompt provision of requested and required information by OCWCOG to CCD staff regarding their loan portfolio significantly enhances CCD's efficiency in servicing the portfolio. This seamless collaboration ensures that CCD has timely access to essential data, allowing us to effectively manage and serve the portfolio on behalf of OCWCOG. By maintaining this level of responsiveness and cooperation, both parties can optimize their mailto:m.laird@ccdbusiness.com__________________

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OCWCOG has demonstrated good stewardship of the SBA 504 program over the years, coupled with a commitment to delivering excellent customer service to loan clients and lead lenders. Through their diligent management and oversight, OCWCOG has effectively utilized the program, ensuring compliance with regulations and maximizing its benefits for clients. Their dedication to providing superior customer service is evident in their proactive approach to addressing client and lender needs, promptly responding to inquiries, and offering tailored solutions. By fostering strong relationships built on trust and reliability, OCWCOG has established itself as a trusted partner, further solidifying its reputation for excellence in customer service.

4. Describe your satisfaction with the business relationship with Proposer.

CCD expresses satisfaction with the business relationship with OCWCOG. Over the course of our partnership, OCWCOG has consistently demonstrated reliability, expertise, and a strong commitment to mutual success. CCD appreciates OCWCOG's proactive communication, prompt response to inquiries, and transparent approach to conducting business, which have fostered a sense of trust and partnership. OCWCOG's thorough understanding of loan processes, coupled with their effective management of the SBA 504 program, has enabled CCD to confidently rely on them. OCWCOG's dedication to providing excellent customer service to loan clients and lead lenders aligns seamlessly with CCD's own commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes. Overall, CCD values the collaborative and productive relationship with OCWCOG, recognizing it as a key factor in their shared achievements with our loan programs.

5. Describe Proposer’s methods for problem resolution.

OCWCOG employs a proactive approach to problem resolution, ensuring efficient and effective handling of issues as they arise. OCWCOG’s methods for problem resolution involve identification, assessment, prioritization, collaboration, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and continuous improvement.

By following this approach, OCWCOG demonstrates their commitment to resolving problems promptly, efficiently, and in a manner that aligns with the needs and expectations of their clients and partners.

6. How likely would you be to use Proposer’s services again?

CCD will continue to partner with OCWCOG to provide exceptional products and services to the regions we serve. CCD values the expertise, reliability, and quality of service that OCWCOG consistently delivers. By maintaining this partnership, CCD can leverage OCWCOG's strengths to enhance their offerings. This ongoing collaboration will foster mutual growth, success, and positive outcomes for both organizations and the communities we support.

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7. With which aspect(s) of Proposer’s services are you the most satisfied?

OCWCOG, Loan Officer, Didi Aho’s commitment to learning the loan programs offered by OCWCOG. Didi’s background prior to OCWCOG was in more traditional lending settings. It can be difficult for traditional lenders to make the transition to the types of programs like RLF’s and the SBA 504 program. Her willingness to learn and grow the programs has been appreciated.

8. With which aspect(s) of Proposer’s services are you the least satisfied?

Currently CCD has no dissatisfaction with OCWCOG’s service. SBA 504 loan volume has been down, but this has been a regional issue and not an OCWCOG issue. OCWCOG and CCD are working on a Unity Lending Marketing strategy for the SBA 504 loan program with our other partnering COGS. This marketing effort should improve our outreach for the SBA 504 program.

9. How well did Proposer stay within the proposed timeline?

OCWCOG consistently demonstrates strong adherence to proposed timelines for SBA 504 loan projects. Their efficient project management practices and proactive approach enable them to stay on track with project schedules. By effectively coordinating with borrowers and lead lenders, managing resources efficiently, and closely monitoring project progress, OCWCOG maintains alignment with proposed timelines. Additionally, their experience and expertise in navigating the complexities of SBA 504 loan projects contribute to their ability to anticipate and mitigate potential challenges that could impact timelines. Overall, OCWCOG's commitment to staying within proposed timelines reflects their dedication to delivering high-quality services and achieving successful outcomes for their clients.

10. How did the final project cost compare to the initial proposed cost?

This question does not relate to OCWCOG’s SBA 504 service for CCD.

With regard to the Loan Support & Servicing Contract CCD believes that the cost to OCWCOG has been minimal and has fallen well below the estimation for these services.