REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

REGIONAL POLICY PLAN

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING & SUSTAINABILITY

SCHEDULE

RFP Released:

Questions Due:

Answers to Questions Posted:

Proposals Due:

August 10, 2026 August 24, 2026 by 4PM August 28, 2026 by 4PM September 10, 2026 by 4PM

Potential Interviews with Consultants: September 17, 2026 Contract Start Date: October 5, 2026

QUESTIONS

All questions regarding this Request for Proposals (RFP) should be directed to:

Laurie Muncy, Director of Comprehensive Planning & Sustainability

E-Mail: lmuncy@ocpcrpa.org

SUBMISSION

Submit responses electronically until September 10, 2026 by 4PM to:

Laurie Muncy, Director of Comprehensive Planning & Sustainability

E-Mail: lmuncy@ocpcrpa.org

RFP Advertised at: www.oldcolonyplanning.org mailto:lmuncy@ocpcrpa.org mailto:lmuncy@ocpcrpa.org http://www.oldcolonyplanning.org/

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

ABOUT OLD COLONY PLANNING COUNCIL (OCPC)

REGIONAL POLICY PLAN (RPP)

BUDGET

ABOUT THIS REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

SECTION 2: STATEMENT OF WORK

PROJECT SCOPE

PROJECT SCOPE WITH TASKS:

OCPC ROLE

Task 1: Project Management and Oversight Task 2: Technical Planning and Plan Development Task 3: Coordination and Support

CONSULTANT ROLE

Task 1: Project Initiation Task 2: Governance and Advisory Working Group Task 3: Municipal and Stakeholder Engagement Task 4: Public Engagement Task 5: Documentation and Reporting

SECTION 3: PRIORITY OBJECTIVES & PLANNING FACTORS

PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

Natural Resource Protection Climate Resilience Housing Aging Infrastructure and Transportation Economic Development Cultural and Historic Preservation

SECTION 4: CONTENT FOR PROPOSALS

CONTENTS OF PROPOSAL RESPONSE

Cover Letter / Letter of Interest (1 page) Table of Contents (1 page) Executive Summary (1 page) Statement of Organization & Personnel Qualifications (Not more than 10 pages)

1. List of Personnel with Stated Qualifications

2. Description of Relevant Experience

3. Tasks and Timeline

Statement of Project Approach (No more than 20 pages) Relevant Prior Project Experience (5 pages) References (1 page) Compliance Certification and Attestation to Executive Orders Statement of Financial Stability Statement of Litigation History Disposition of Proposals Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) Certification

SECTION 5: QUALIFICATIONS FOR PACKAGE STRUCTURE

SECTION 6: SUBMISSION, EVALUATION, AND SELECTION

EVALUATION CRITERIA

A. Statement of Organization & Personnel Qualifications B. Statement of Project Approach C. Relevant Prior Project Experience D. References E. Interview

AWARD OF THE CONTRACT

OFFER AND ACCEPTANCE PERIOD

RESPONDENT’S RIGHTS

SECTION 7: MAJOR CONTRACT PROVISIONS

PAYMENT

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

DELIVERY OF DATA AND WORK PROJECTS

OWNERSHIP OF DATA AND WORK PRODUCTS

CANCELLATION

CONTRACT TERMINATION

AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

CONFIDENTIALITY

REMOVAL OF CONTRACT EMPLOYEES

CONTRACT TERM

INSURANCE

SECTION 8: REQUIRED FORMS AND ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A: COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATION AND ATTESTATION

Name of Firm:

Business Address:

Name of Signatory:

Position/Title:

ATTACHMENT B: CERTIFICATION OF NON-COLLUSION

ATTACHMENT C: CERTIFICATION OF CONTINGENT FEES

ATTACHMENT D: CERTIFICATION OF FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES

ATTACHMENT E: CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE

ATTACHMENT F: DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) CERTIFICATION

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

ABOUT OLD COLONY PLANNING COUNCIL (OCPC)

The Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) was established in 1967 as the comprehensive planning agency for the region and includes the seventeen communities of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Stoughton, West Bridgewater, and Whitman.

Figure 1: Old Colony Planning Council Region

OCPC was established in part to address local challenges that cross city and town boundaries, such as air and water pollution, transportation deficiencies, and economic distress. Overcoming challenges like these requires cooperative action, and OCPC exists to help facilitate that cooperation and coordination.

Our professional planning staff gathers data, conducts research and analysis, and develops regional plans to help improve the region's social, economic, and environmental conditions.

We also advise on development and redevelopment initiatives and provide comprehensive planning assistance to municipalities, especially when two or more municipalities have common problems.

OCPC is governed by the Council, which operates like a non-profit board of directors. Communities in our region are represented on the Council by a Delegate and an Alternate.

The OCPC region is a U.S. Economic Development Administration-designated Economic Development District. As such, OCPC leads a locally based, regionally driven economic development planning process. We actively engage with the Administration-designated rate in the public, private, and non-profit sectors to establish and implement an economic development roadmap for the region.

The Old Colony Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) serves the Old Colony region and is advised by the Joint Transportation Committee (JTC). The MPO is the region’s organization responsible for prioritizing transportation initiatives and producing the Transportation Improvement Plan and Long- Range Transportation Plan. Voting members include the communities of Brockton, Plymouth, Kingston, and Whitman; the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT); Brockton Area Transit (BAT); and the Old Colony Planning Council.

The Old Colony Metropolitan Planning Organization operates under the following four Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs): the 3C Process MOU, the Performance-Based Planning and Programming Process MOU, the Conduct of Transportation – Air Quality MOU, the Barnstable Urbanized Area Designation MOU, and the Boston Urbanized Area Designation MOU.

In accordance with the February 2026 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) relating to the comprehensive, continuing, and cooperative transportation planning process, the Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) is authorized to elect the two representatives of Boards of Selectmen/Town Councils to serve as Local Signatories on the Old Colony MPO.

REGIONAL POLICY PLAN (RPP)

Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) is in the process of updating its Regional Policy Plan. Adopted in 2018, the Old Colony Regional Policy Plan developed a shared vision for the region, identifying existing conditions and strategies to improve our communities across environmental, economic, transportation, housing, and public health systems. It presents a holistic view of the region, combining data analysis, policy review, and the input of a wide variety of stakeholders. Through this process, the plan developed a series of implementation opportunities, emphasizing the roles of collaboration, innovation, livability, sustainable growth, and resource conservation.

The Regional Policy Plan is meant to be a living document that is continually updated, recognizing the new realities of changing demographics, economics, laws, and other developments. Each update is meant to build on the version before it, reevaluating and revising our communities’ needs and priorities as they develop. OCPC is now in the process of such an update. Through this update, we will assess our progress toward previous goals and adjust and introduce new action areas in response to evolving community needs and priorities.

BUDGET

Up to $125,000 for consultant services and support is available for this award. Before the contract is awarded to the selected consultant, the consultant, and OCPC will enter contract negotiations to determine the final scope, fee, and the fairest contract arrangement for all parties including subcontractors

We ask that interested parties bid on this proposal and indicate a scope of work that closely aligns with the allocated consultant funds. Additionally, if specific tasks cannot be fulfilled based on this budget, please list those tasks as potential add-ons and indicate an approximate cost for the specific tasks. If additional funding becomes available, OCPC may be able to proceed with some of those activities.

ABOUT THIS REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

The consultant will partner with OCPC to guide the stakeholder engagement process and ensure the update of the Regional Policy Plan is informed by and in line with community priorities. Working closely with OCPC staff, the selected consultant will be responsible for designing and facilitating a comprehensive outreach plan, engaging with the Advisory Working Group, municipal and regional stakeholders, and community members across the region.

SECTION 2: STATEMENT OF WORK

PROJECT SCOPE

Through OCPC’s update to the 2018 Regional Policy Plan, we aim to establish a shared vision for the region's future, setting specific goals related to our natural, built, and community systems. In doing so, we will develop a framework to guide where and how growth should occur in the coming years.

The project is projected to begin in Fall 2026 and be completed by 2028.

Meaningful public participation is critical to the successful development of the updated Regional Policy Plan. The proceeding scope of work outlines the key roles for the selected consultant in developing, implementing, facilitating, and documenting an engaging and inclusive public engagement process to support and inform plan development. The selected consultant will work collaboratively with OCPC’s staff to engage stakeholders and community members throughout our seventeen communities, ensuring a variety of engagement formats, approaches, and opportunities.

Timeframe: The consultant contract will begin on October 5, 2026, and end September 30, 2027

PROJECT SCOPE WITH TASKS:

OLD COLONY PLANNING COUNCIL ROLE

OCPC will manage and coordinate the development of the updated Regional Policy Plan. This will include responsibility for overall project management, technical analyses, policy development, drafting of the Regional Policy Plan, and final adoption of the document. The agency will work collaboratively with the selected consultant throughout the public engagement process. This will include managing the project schedule, coordinating across project partners, and ensuring the alignment of engagement activities with the goals and objectives of the Regional Policy Plan.

Task 1: Project Management and Oversight

• Coordinate project schedules and budgets.

• Schedule and facilitate regular project coordination meetings with the selected consultant.

• Maintain fiscal accountability and manage personnel, travel, supply, and indirect cost allocations outlined in the approved budget.

• Review documentation of the engagement process and other project deliverables, providing timely feedback as applicable.

Task 2: Technical Planning and Plan Development

• Prepare technical analyses, mapping, and policy research relevant to the Regional Policy

Plan.

• Develop draft and final plan chapters.

• Incorporate public and stakeholder input throughout the development of plan goals, policies, and implementation strategies.

• Coordinate revisions to the draft plan in line with public comments.

Task 3: Coordination and Support

• Advise on the design of public outreach and engagement for the project, including multilingual engagement, digital outreach, surveys, focus groups, interviews, and accessible in-person events.

• Support public outreach and engagement activities, including staff support at in-person events and review of draft outreach materials.

• Provide relevant background information, data, and plan development information to support outreach activities.

• Coordinate with member municipalities and regional partners

CONSULTANT ROLE

The selected consultant will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive and inclusive stakeholder engagement process that supports and guides the development of the updated Regional Policy Plan. Working closely with OCPC, the consultant will be planning, coordinating, facilitating, and documenting engagement activities. This process should provide meaningful participation opportunities to a wide array of stakeholders and community members across the region.

Task 1: Project Initiation

• Conduct a kickoff meeting with Town and Old Colony Planning Council staff and establish project management structure.

• Review the 2018 Regional Policy Plan, as well as other major planning documents within the region and background materials.

• Prepare an engagement plan, detailing timelines, key audiences, engagement formats, communication strategies, and methods to document and evaluate outcomes.

• Work with OCPC to develop a regular meeting schedule to communicate progress updates.

Task 2: Governance and Advisory Working Group

• Steering Committee Support o Attend Steering Committee meetings as needed.

o Prepare and present progress updates, including engagement findings, emerging themes, and recommendations for discussion.

o Identify topics requiring guidance from the Steering Committee, and coordinate with

OCPC to ensure these topics are included in meeting agendas.

• Advisory Working Group Facilitation o Assist OCPC in identifying and engaging key representatives to participate in each Advisory Working Group. Advisory Working Groups will bring together subject matter experts and regional stakeholders to inform the development of the Regional Policy Plan in key topic areas, including Climate & Environment, Housing, Transportation, Economic Development, and Cultural Resources.

o Prepare relevant meeting materials such as presentations, discussion guides, and other programming.

o Facilitate discussions to identify priorities, opportunities, challenges, and other considerations relevant to each topic area.

o Coordinate with OCPC to ensure the Regional Policy Plan incorporates discussion insights and considerations.

Task 3: Municipal and Stakeholder Engagement

• Facilitate meetings, workshops, focus groups, and/or interviews with regional stakeholders such as municipal officials, planners, transit agencies, labor representatives, chambers of commerce, and community-based organizations.

• Document key stakeholder priorities, opportunities, and challenges.

• Establish mechanisms for regular feedback from stakeholders to inform draft and final tools.

Task 4: Public Engagement

• Work with OCPC and its partners to design a questionnaire for the public survey that will be led by OCPC and its partners. Throughout the survey duration, monitor participation and recommend strategies and opportunities to increase response rates.

• Plan and facilitate public education and outreach activities, which may include presentations, public workshops, open houses, pop-up events, virtual meetings, and/or other engagement approaches.

• Analyze results and summarize findings from the survey and public engagement activities to identify common priorities, opportunities, and challenges.

• Ensure engagement opportunities are accessible to the public, offering a range of locations, formats, and times, as well as ensuring ADA compliance for all materials.

Task 5: Documentation and Reporting

• Document participation through attendance sheets and photographs.

• Develop summary notes following meetings and focus groups.

• Keep a record of public comments.

• Prepare periodic engagement reports noting common themes and key insights to inform plan development.

• Prepare a final engagement report, outlining methods of engagement, participation metrics, key findings, and recommendations.

SECTION 3: PRIORITY OBJECTIVES & PLANNING FACTORS

PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

The Regional Policy Plan will establish a framework for coordinated regional growth while protecting sensitive areas. Engagement efforts should encourage discussion and collaboration surrounding shared goals across the region. These conversations will be critical to the development of the Regional Policy Plan, ensuring our ongoing priorities and strategies are informed by and in line with community voices.

Natural Resource Protection The Regional Policy Plan will address the conservation, restoration, and protection of the region’s natural resources to ensure their continued availability and well-being. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Developing a regional open space plan.

• Advancing the protection of aquifers and drinking water resources.

• Protecting coastal and freshwater quality.

• Balancing growth and development with environmental protections.

Climate Resilience The Regional Policy Plan will address the vulnerability of the region to climate change, and explore opportunities for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Strategies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

• Disaster preparedness and post-disaster recovery planning.

• Opportunities to coordinate local climate planning efforts across our communities and regional partners.

• Integration of climate considerations into other planning areas.

Housing The Regional Policy Plan will address ongoing challenges of housing affordability and availability.

Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Regional housing needs and challenges, with consideration of populations across various income levels, age groups, abilities, and household types.

• Opportunities for local zoning changes.

• Use of state housing programs and tools.

• Additional strategies to meet our communities’ housing needs.

Aging The Regional Policy Plan will address the needs and opportunities to support older adults throughout the region. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Understanding key needs, challenges, and barriers faced by residents aged 60 and older.

• Access to and experience with services, programs, and resources.

• Emergency preparedness for older adults.

• Strategies to support aging in place.

Infrastructure and Transportation The Regional Policy Plan will explore infrastructure needs and transportation systems to improve safety, efficiency, and access throughout our communities. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Identifying existing transportation challenges faced by residents and commuters across the region.

• Transportation safety and accessibility.

• Reducing congestion and improving the efficiency of existing networks.

• Multimodal transportation needs, including public transit, bicycles, and pedestrian systems.

Economic Development The Regional Policy Plan will assess the regional economy and discuss strategies to create opportunities for all residents. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Job creation and workforce training.

• Strategies to retain and expand existing businesses, as well as to attract additional businesses.

• Opportunities for regional partnerships.

• Infrastructural investment and commercial corridors.

Cultural and Historic Preservation The Regional Policy Plan will address the preservation of historic and cultural resources. Engagement efforts should include conversations in this area. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Updates to historic inventories.

• Promoting and preserving the region’s tourism, arts, and cultural resources.

SECTION 4: CONTENT FOR PROPOSALS

This procurement process complies with CFR Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, §§200.317 through 200.327.

Respondents shall provide documentation that demonstrates their ability to satisfy all the minimum qualification requirements. The response shall be submitted according to the format set forth below.

As previously stated, OCPC will review each proposal and decide as to the sufficiency and adequacy of the Respondent’s qualifications. If the Respondent fails to provide or omits information, there will be no appeals process or acceptance of additional materials.

CONTENTS OF PROPOSAL RESPONSE

Cover Letter / Letter of Interest (1 page)

The response will contain a letter of interest that declares that the Respondent is submitting the response without collusion with any other person or entity submitting a response pursuant to this solicitation. Letters should not contain links to other web pages, are not to exceed one (1) page in length, and will include, at a minimum, the following information in the following format:

1. Name, address, and contact information for the submitting person or entity.

2. Organizational profile and qualifications: This section of the letter must describe the proposing firm and must also identify the primary individuals responsible for supervising the work, including their titles and/or their classifications.

Letters of Interest shall be signed by a representative of the Respondent who has the authority to negotiate and contractually bind the consultant/firm.

Table of Contents (1 page)

The table of contents should outline, in sequential order, the major areas of the Response Package as shown herein. All pages of the Response Package, excluding attachments, must be clearly and consecutively numbered and correspond to the table of contents.

Executive Summary (1 page)

Provide a complete and concise summary of the Respondent Team’s background, types of expertise and ability to meet the requirements of this RFP. The executive summary should briefly state why the Consultant Team is the best candidate for the project.

Statement of Organization & Personnel Qualifications (Not more than 10 pages)

Respondents shall include a Statement of Organization in their submittal. The Statement of Organization should include the following information:

1. List of Personnel with Stated Qualifications

Respondents must first supply a summary list of personnel who will perform the work for the anticipated contractual services. The team should collectively demonstrate experience in:

a. Public engagement and community outreach

b. Meeting facilitation and consensus-building

c. Regional or comprehensive planning

d. Communications

2. Description of Relevant Experience

Descriptions of relevant experience and other certificates for each individual shall be provided.

These descriptions should be limited to one page per individual. The following experiences should be included in the individual personnel descriptions:

a. Experience designing and carrying out comprehensive public engagement strategies across a variety of formats.

• Facilitating public meetings, focus groups, advisory committee meetings, stakeholder working groups, interactive activities, pop-up events, etc.

• Designing, distributing, and analyzing planning-related surveys.

b. Experience communicating complex information to non-technical audiences.

c. Experience developing public-facing communications materials including, but not limited to, presentations, flyers, interactive exercises, and digital content, while maintaining project branding.

d. Experience with comprehensive planning initiatives incorporating natural resources, climate resilience, housing, aging, transportation, economic development, cultural and historical resources, and related topics.

e. Familiarity and experience with Massachusetts planning practices and regional planning agencies.

3. Tasks and Timeline

Respondents should provide details on achieving the tasks noted in this RFP and the timeline for providing deliverables, project milestones, reporting, and completion based on the start and end date provided forthwith.

Statement of Project Approach (No more than 20 pages)

Project Approach – Respondents should describe their approach to the project and requirements for developing a comprehensive prioritization plan that will address the priority objectives, planning phases, and performance measures contained in Section 2.

Relevant Prior Project Experience (5 pages)

Identify projects that demonstrate relevant project experience according to the Scope of Services in Section 2 of this RFP. The examples should come from relevant team members’ experience and should have been performed in the last five (5) years. References of comprehensive plans successfully conducted or underway are preferred.

References (1 page)

Respondents shall provide names and addresses of a representative list of clients/references with which the Respondent has performed similar work. References shall include a contact person, current telephone number, and current email addresses.

Compliance Certification and Attestation to Executive Orders

Respondents shall comply with all applicable Executive Orders as a condition of this subrecipient agreement, ensuring that all activities, expenditures, and deliverables performed in connection with the Federal award are conducted in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards) and applicable agency-specific terms and conditions.

These Executive Orders establish binding Federal policy directives related to lawful, non-discriminatory, and accountable performance, which must be incorporated into all methodologies, analyses, and written work products prepared under this engagement. Respondents shall ensure that all work remains aligned with current Federal priorities, maintains proper stewardship of public funds, and is prepared to withstand Federal audit and review to confirm allowability, allocability, and reasonableness under federal law.

Statement of Financial Stability

Respondents shall provide a statement in writing signed by a duly authorized representative, stating the present financial condition of the Respondent, and disclosing information as to Respondent’s involvement in any current bankruptcy proceedings. The Statements of Financial Stability shall be signed by a representative of the Respondent who has the authority to negotiate and contractually bind the consultant/firm.

Statement of Litigation History

Respondents shall provide a statement describing any prior or pending litigation or investigation, either civil or criminal, involving a governmental agency or political subdivision thereof or which may affect the performance of the services to be rendered herein, in which the Respondent, any of its employees, subcontractors or subconsultants, is or has been involved within the last five years. The Statement of Litigation History shall be signed by a representative of the Respondent who has authority to negotiate and contractually bind the consultant/firm.

Disposition of Proposals

All proposals submitted in response to this RFP will become the property of the Old Colony Planning Council and a matter of public record. The respondent must identify, in writing, all copyrighted material, trade secrets, or other proprietary information that it claims is exempt from disclosure under Massachusetts’ Public Records Laws. Any Respondent claiming such an exemption must also state that it agrees to defend any action brought against Old Colony Planning Council for its refusal to disclose such material, trade secrets, or other proprietary information to any party making a request, therefore. Any respondent who fails to include such a statement shall be deemed to have waived its right to an exemption from disclosure as provided by said action.

Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) Certification

OCPC seeks meaningful participation by qualified disadvantaged businesses in its procurement process. The proposal shall, as applicable, indicate the minimum percentage of the total contract value that is to be paid to any sub-consultant or supplier for which DBE status is claimed. DBE firms are requested to submit evidence of such classification with the Response Package.

SECTION 5: QUALIFICATIONS FOR PACKAGE STRUCTURE

OCPC recognizes fair and open competition as a basic tenet of public procurement and encourages participation by minority and women-owned/managed or Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE).

While there is no requirement for DBE involvement for this contract, DBE firms are requested to submit evidence of such classification with the Qualifications Package.

Proposal Packages submitted for consideration should be arranged following the format shown below:

Qualifications Package Structure

1. Cover Letter / Letter of Interest (1 page single sided)

2. Table of Contents (2 pages single sided)

3. Executive Summary (1 page single sided)

4. Statement of Organization & Personnel Qualifications (10 pages single sided)

5. Statement of Approach (20 pages single sided)

6. Prior Project Experience (5 pages single sided)

7. References (1 page single sided)

Attachment A: Compliance Certification and Attestation Relative to Federal Executive Orders, Grant Requirements and Applicable Federal Law

Attachment B: Certificate of Non-Collusion

Attachment C: Certificate of Contingent Fees

Attachment D: Certification of Fair Employment Practices

Attachment E: Conflict of Interest Disclosure

Attachment F: DBE Certification (if applicable)

NOTE: Proposal Packages should not exceed 40 pages (excluding attachments).

SECTION 6: SUBMISSION, EVALUATION, AND SELECTION

All materials submitted in response to this RFP become the property of OCPC upon delivery and are to be appended to any formal documentation which would further define or expand the contractual relationship between OCPC and the Respondent.

Inquiries - Respondents may submit written email inquiries for interpretation of this RFP to Laurie Muncy, Director of Comprehensive Planning and Sustainability, at lmuncy@ocpcrpa.org no later than August 24, 2026 by 4:00 PM.

Questions made and answered will be summarized in writing for distribution on the OCPC website (www.oldcolonyplanning.org) no later than August 28, 2026 by 4:00 p.m. All questions will remain anonymous. Addenda or amendments to this RFP, if required, shall also be posted to the website.

OCPC staff will not respond to verbal questions or meeting requests regarding this solicitation. Any email correspondence related to this RFP should refer to the appropriate RFP title, page, and paragraph.

Verification of Information - OCPC staff may verify all information submitted in a Proposal Package.

Submission of information deemed to be inaccurate may result in a determination of non-response and a rejection of the Proposal Package.

Exceptions - Any desired exceptions to the terms and conditions of this RFP must be included in the Proposal Package and must address the specific page and paragraph of the RFP in which the conflict exists. A Respondent's preprinted terms and conditions will not be considered as exceptions.

Proposal Packages - The Proposal Package and other information received in response to this RFP shall be shown only to OCPC staff. After the award, the successful Proposal Package and evaluation document shall be open for public inspection.

Late Proposal Package - Late Proposal Packages will not be considered, and the Consultant/Firm shall be notified.

Withdrawal of Proposal Packages - Submitters may withdraw their Proposal Package by notifying OCPC at any time. They may withdraw their Qualifications Package in person or through an authorized representative. To withdraw a response, a submitter or authorized representative must disclose their identity and provide a signed letter for which a written receipt will be provided.

Proposal Packages become the property of OCPC and will not be returned to the submitters. Upon receiving responses, they become a “public record" and shall be subject to public disclosure.

mailto:ckilmer@ocpcrpa.org http://www.oldcolonyplanning.org/

EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of OCPC staff. Each member of the committee will evaluate each Proposal Package against the RFP selection criteria, as listed below.

Proposals will be ranked on a Likert scale based on the demonstration of technical ability and previous experience. When developing responses to the Qualifications Package Structure, respondents should refer to the following:

A. Statement of Organization & Personnel Qualifications

1. Highly Advantageous- Demonstrates that more than one (1) personnel member from the proposed project team has relevant professional certifications and experience outlined in Section V: Description of Relevant Experience in more than two categories.

2. Advantageous- There is at least one (1) personnel member from the proposed project team who has relevant professional certifications and experience outlined in Section V: Description of Relevant Experience in at least two categories.

3. Not Advantageous- The applicant has not demonstrated a personnel member with relevant certifications and experience outlined in Section V: Description of Relevant Experience in any category.

4. Unacceptable- There is no clear demonstration, and it has raised serious questions regarding the ability to perform.

B. Statement of Project Approach

1. Highly Advantageous- presents a clear, complete statement of work relative to developing a comprehensive stakeholder engagement plan that addresses the priority objectives contained in Section 2.

2. Advantageous- presents a clear statement of work that demonstrates a good understanding of priority objectives contained in Section 2.

3. Not Advantageous- presents a statement of work that is not clear and/or complete with a weak demonstration of priority objectives contained in Section 2.

4. Unacceptable- There is no clear statement of work that addresses Section 2.

C. Relevant Prior Project Experience

1. Highly Advantageous- clearly demonstrates five or more years of relevant project experience.

2. Advantageous- demonstrates at least five years of relevant project experience.

3. Not Advantageous- does not demonstrate at least five years of relevant project experience.

4. Unacceptable- there is no clear statement of experience.

D. References

1. Highly Advantageous- Applicant’s references are of high quality and represent many qualifications relevant to the proposal.

2. Advantageous- Applicant's references are generally good and represent certain qualifications relevant to the proposal.

3. Not Advantageous- Applicant’s references have raised serious questions regarding performance

4. Unacceptable- There are no clear or relevant references provided.

E. Interview Old Colony Planning Council reserves the right to conduct interviews of any proposers. Still, nothing herein shall be interpreted or understood to compel OCPC to interview any particular proposer. Should the Selection Committee choose to interview proposers, interviews will be ranked based upon the following:

1. Highly Advantageous- The principal consultant and/or project manager presented a detailed plan of action, demonstrated excellent communication skills, presented other personnel with experience and skills who will be assigned for the duration of this project, and successfully responded to all questions.

2. Advantageous- The principal consultant and/or project manager was present, outlined a plan of action, demonstrated good communication skills, presented other personnel with experience and skills who will be assigned for the duration of this project, and successfully responded to most of the questions.

3. Not Advantageous- The principal consultant and/or project manager was not present at the interview or was unable to communicate effectively or did not successfully respond to questions.

Individuals with a lower score will be given preference based on the outlined scale from 1-4 with 1 indicating the evaluation was ‘Highly Advantageous’ to 4 as ‘Unacceptable.’

AWARD OF THE CONTRACT

Notwithstanding any other provision of this RFP, the Old Colony Planning Council expressly reserves the right to:

• Waive any immaterial defect or informality.

• Reject any or all Qualifications Packages, or portions thereof.

• Reissue a Request for Qualifications.

• Modify the number and types of tasks to be collected to meet budgetary limitations.

• Cancel the Solicitation.

OFFER AND ACCEPTANCE PERIOD

A response to this RFP implies that there is a willingness on the part of the Consultant/Firm to contract with OCPC based upon the terms, conditions, tasks and specifications contained herein. Submitted Proposal Packages are deemed irrevocable for one-hundred eighty (180) days after the date and time that the proposal packages are due.

RESPONDENT’S RIGHTS

All materials submitted in response to this RFP become the property of OCPC.

SECTION 7: MAJOR CONTRACT PROVISIONS

This section indicates the major terms and conditions a prospective Respondent should be aware of in the development of the Proposal Package. This is not “all-inclusive” but contains the major provisions that might affect the development of the Proposal Package.

PAYMENT

Payment will be made in arrears only after submission of proper invoices to OCPC. Billing shall represent work completed prior to the invoice date. The invoice shall identify the description of work performed at the contract rates. Payment of any invoice shall not preclude OCPC from making a claim for adjustment on any service found not to have been in accordance with the contract. Invoices may not be submitted more frequently than monthly.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

OCPC reserves the right to preclude offering a work assignment to a Consultant/Firm should a real, apparent, or potential conflict of interest exist as determined by OCPC.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

OCPC relies upon the Consultant/Firm to provide services in accordance with the contract and performance standards established for each work assignment in the Task Order. The Consultant/Firm agrees that time is of the essence, and that contractual commitments should be met.

DELIVERY OF DATA AND WORK PROJECTS

Unless specified otherwise, the final embodiment of deliverables (maps, charts, tools, slide decks, reports, etc.) will be delivered in an electronic format to include editable originals, linked supporting graphics and images, and final portable document format (PDF) files.

OWNERSHIP OF DATA AND WORK PRODUCTS

All deliverables and/or other products of the contract (including but not limited to all procedures, Qualifications Packages, reports, records, summaries, software documentation, original data, GIS data original and derived, and other matters and materials gathered, prepared and/or developed by the Consultant/Firm in the performance of this contract) shall be the sole, absolute, and exclusive property of the Old Colony Planning Council, free from any claim or retention of rights thereto on the part of the Consultant, its agents, its subcontractors, officers, or employees. No data acquired from or via the OCPC may be used by the Consultant/Firm for any other projects.

CANCELLATION

Failure to perform any or all the terms, promises and conditions of the contract, including the specifications, may be deemed a substantial breach thereof. Default may be declared at any time if, in the opinion of the OCPC:

• Consultant/Firm fails to adequately perform the services required in the contract.

• Consultant/Firm attempts to provide service or workmanship which is of an unacceptable quality. or

• Consultant/Firm fails to make progress in the performance of the requirements of the contract, and/or gives OCPC a positive indication that the Consultant/Firm will not or cannot fulfill the requirements of the contract.

After the notice of cancellation, the Consultant/Firm agrees to fulfill the requirements of the contract up to and including the date of cancellation, as though no cancellation had been made, and notwithstanding other legal remedies which may be available to OCPC because of the cancellation, agrees to indemnify OCPC for its cost in procuring the services of a new Consultant/Firm.

The Old Colony Planning Council shall give the Consultant/Firm written notice of default. After receiving such notice, the Consultant/Firm shall have five (5) days in which to cure such failure. In the event the Consultant/Firm does not cure such failure, OCPC may terminate all or any part of the contract without further consideration by notifying the Consultant/Firm in writing.

CONTRACT TERMINATION

By written notice, OCPC may terminate the contract, in whole or in part, when it is deemed to be in its best interest. If the contract is terminated, the Consultant/Firm will be compensated for work performed up to the time of the notification of termination. In no event shall payment for such costs exceed the current contract price.

AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

If monies are not appropriated or otherwise made available to support continuation of performance in a subsequent fiscal period, the contract shall be canceled, and the Consultant/Firm will only be reimbursed for the reasonable value of any non-recurring costs borne but not amortized in the price of services delivered under the contract, or which are otherwise not recoverable. The cost of cancellation may be paid by any appropriations available for such purposes.

CONFIDENTIALITY

The Consultant/Firm acknowledges that the information disclosed to it concerning governmental operations during performance of a contract is confidential and/or proprietary and shall not be disclosed to third parties without prior written consent of those governments.

• The Consultant/Firm shall establish and maintain procedures and controls for the purpose of assuring that no information in its records or obtained from jurisdictions and governmental entities in carrying out its functions under the contract shall be used or disclosed by it. OCPC reserves the right to review such procedures to ensure acceptability. Persons requesting such information should be referred to OCPC.

• All proprietary information and all copies thereof shall be returned to OCPC upon completion of the work for which it was obtained or developed.

REMOVAL OF CONTRACT EMPLOYEES

The Consultant/Firm agrees to utilize only experienced, responsible, and capable people in the performance of the work. OCPC may require that the Consultant/Firm remove employees from the project who endanger people or property or whose continued employment under this project is inconsistent with the interests of OCPC.

CONTRACT TERM

The term of any resultant contract shall commence on the date of the notice to proceed, unless terminated, canceled, or extended as otherwise provided herein. Should a contract extension be required, OCPC reserves the right to extend the contract for a specific time period beyond the stated expiration date.

INSURANCE

Without limiting its liability, the Consultant/Firm shall maintain, during the life of the contract:

• Workers' Compensation Insurance

• Comprehensive General Liability Insurance

• Automobile Liability Insurance

• Consultant's Professional Liability Insurance

As part of the contract developed from this RFP, the Consultant/Firm shall include a standard form.

"Certificate of Insurance" as evidence of this coverage. The amounts of coverage shall be negotiated as part of the contract but shall generally be sufficient to protect OCPC from liability as a result of this study. This coverage may not be canceled, reduced, or allowed to lapse without written notice to

OCPC.

SECTION 8: REQUIRED FORMS AND ATTACHMENTS

The following forms (attached hereto) must be signed by a duly authorized representative and submitted with the Qualifications Package.

• Attachment A: Compliance Certification and Attestation Relative to Federal Executive

Orders, Grant Requirements, and Applicable Federal Law

• Attachment B: Certificate of Non-Collusion

• Attachment C: Certification of Contingent Fees

• Attachment D: Certification of Fair Employment Practices

• Attachment E: Conflict of Interest Disclosure

• Attachment F: Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification (if applicable)

ATTACHMENT A: COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATION AND

Relative to Federal Executive Orders, Grant Requirements, and Applicable Federal Law

WHEREAS, the undersigned (“Consultant”) acknowledges that as part of its engagement to provide professional services, all work products, reports, deliverables, and written documentation must be developed in full compliance with applicable Federal statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Executive Order on Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking (August 7, 2025), the Consultant shall ensure that all proposed methods, project approaches, analyses, and documentation are aligned with Federal priorities, comply with updated Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R.

Part 200) requirements, and reflect the heightened oversight, accountability, and termination for convenience provisions applicable to discretionary grant awards.

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Executive Orders of the Executive Branch and 2 CFR 200, the Consultant, in the course of project performance and preparation of deliverables, shall:

1. Ensure that all written products and project activities are developed in accordance with the United States Constitution, Federal law, and statutory and public policy requirements, including but not limited to those protecting free speech, religious liberty, public welfare, the environment, and prohibiting discrimination;

2. Incorporate the requirements of Executive Order 14025 (“Worker Organizing and Empowerment”) into any labor- or workforce-related recommendations or narratives prepared for the project;

and

3. Certify compliance with Executive Order 14173 (“Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity”), including that no programs or recommendations contained in project deliverables promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in a manner that violates applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws

NOW, THEREFORE, by signing this Certification, the undersigned attests, affirms, and certifies that:

1. The Consultant has reviewed, understands, and will fully comply with the above-referenced Executive Orders, Uniform Guidance provisions, and all other applicable Federal requirements in the course of performing this engagement.

2. All written documentation, reports, recommendations, and other deliverables prepared by the Consultant will be consistent with these requirements and will be drafted to withstand Federal review and audit for compliance.

3. The Consultant acknowledges that adherence to these provisions is material to the project’s eligibility for Federal funding and to payment for services rendered.

4. The Consultant agrees to flow down these compliance obligations to any subconsultants, subcontractors, or vendors engaged in producing project deliverables.

Name of Firm:

Business Address:

Name of Signatory:

Position/Title:

Signature:

Date:______________________________________________________

ATTACHMENT B: CERTIFICATION OF NON-COLLUSION

The undersigned, having been fully informed regarding the accuracy of the statements made herein, certifies that:

(1) This Qualifications Package was developed and submitted independently and without consultation, communication, collusion, understanding, or agreement with any other Respondent or potential Respondent.

(2) No attempt has been made or will be made to induce any firm or person to refrain from bidding on this contract.

(3) This Qualifications Package is made in good faith and not pursuant to any agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any firm or person to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive application.

(4) ________________________ its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers, directors and employees are not (name of firm) currently under investigation by any governmental agency and have not, in the last five years, been convicted of or found a liable for any act prohibited by state or federal law in any jurisdiction, involving conspiracy or collusion with respect to bidding on any public contract.

The undersigned attests that they are authorized to make this certification on behalf of the Respondent, and its owners, directors, and officers.

Name and Title/Position of Signatory Signature

Name of Respondent/Firm Date

Business Address

ATTACHMENT C: CERTIFICATION OF CONTINGENT FEES

The Respondent acknowledges that no OCPC assistance has been paid or will be paid on its behalf to any person(s) for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of the ICOC, member of the OCPC Council, an officer or employee of any OCPC member jurisdictions, or officer or employee of any MPO member jurisdictions in connection with the award of any OCPC contract, the making of any OCPC grant or loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any OCPC contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

The undersigned attests that they are authorized to make this certification on behalf of the Respondent, and its owners, directors, and officers.

Name and Title/Position of Signatory

Signature

ATTACHMENT D: CERTIFICATION OF FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES

The undersigned states that by its employment (Respondent) policy, standards, and practices, does not subscribe to any personnel policy which permits or allows for the promotion, demotion, employment, dismissal, or laying off of any individual due to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, or disability.

The undersigned attests that they are authorized to make this certification on behalf of the Respondent, and

Name and Title/Position of Signatory

Signature

ATTACHMENT E: CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE

Instructions OCPC, in keeping with State Ethics Law, asks that all persons or firms seeking contracts valued at $50,000 or more complete and submit this form along with their Qualifications Package. This requirement also applies to any proposed subcontractors whose portion of the work is valued at $25,000 or more. Failure to comply with this requirement may cause your Qualifications Package to be declared non-responsive.

Questions

1. Does your firm have an existing relationship with employee(s) of the OCPC, and/or member(s) or officer(s) of the Council or the MPO that could be construed as having a conflict of interest (i.e., financial interest), or which would give…