RFP _25_027_RFP_ 205_207_Pine Ave_.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

Owned by the DDA

Proposal Ref. 25-027

I. Request for Proposal

November 19, 2024 Request for Proposal

Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

Sealed proposals will be received at the Procurement Office, 222 Pine Ave., Ste. 260, Albany, GA 31701 until 5:00 p.m. EDT, on January 3, 2025, for the purchase and development of property located at 205/207 Pine Ave., currently owned by the Downtown Development Authority of Albany, GA (DDA).

A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on December 4, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Government Center, located at 222 Pine Ave., Ste. 260, Albany, GA 31701. Following the meeting, a tour of the building will take place. DDA and the City of Albany (DDA and City) strongly encourage all firms interested in this project to attend this meeting and site visit to assure each firm which submits a proposal has a comprehensive understanding of the site conditions and project requirements.

The City further encourages vendors to solicit and engage minority and disadvantaged businesses for this project.

Any interested and qualified firm and/or party is requested to submit a sealed response to accomplish the Scope of Services as delineated in this Request for Proposals (RFP). The response is to be signed by a duly authorized official of the firm and must be submitted in the time, manner and form prescribed herein.

DDA and the City reserve the right to request additional information from any respondent(s) as may be deemed necessary to accurately analyze proposals. DDA and the City further reserve the right to reject any and all responses and to waive technicalities as deemed to be in the best interest of DDA and the City.

Documents are available at the Procurement Office, www.albanyga.gov, and the Georgia Procurement Registry. Submit all questions via e-mail to rqladney@albanyqa.gov, cc:

jswilliams@albanyqa.gov, and kross@albanyqa.gov. Replies of substance will be in writing and made available to all firms attending the Pre-Proposal Conference. Deadline for questions is December 19, 2024, by 5:00 p.m.

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TIITaW,CPPB ""-rocurement Manager

FINANCE

P.O. BOX 447 ALBANY, GA 31702 I PHONE: 229.431.3211 I FAX: 229.431.2184 I www.albanyqa.gov mailto:jswilliams@albanyga.gov mailto:rgladney@albanyga.gov mailto:kross@albanyga.gov www.albanyga.gov

CITY OF ALBANY

PROCUREMENT DIVISION

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

ALBANY, GEORGIA

INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

These instructions will bind proposers to terms and conditions herein set forth,

1. The following criteria are used in determining which proposal is in the best interests of the city.

(a) The ability, capacity and skill of proposer to perform required service.

(b) Whether proposer can perform service promptly or within specified time.

(c) The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience and efficiency of bidder.

(d) The performance of previous contracts.

(e) The suitability of equipment or material for City/County use.

(f) The ability of proposer to provide future maintenance and parts service.

2. Payment terms are Net 30 unless otherwise specified. Favorable term discounts may be offered and will be considered in determining best proposer if they are deemed advantageous to the City.

3. All requested information should be included in bid envelope. All desired information must be signed and included for your proposal to receive full consideration. Failure to submit any required form will be cause for proposal to be rejected as non-responsive.

4. All questions, inquiries and requests for clarification shall be directed to Procurement.

5. For multi-year contracts the following clauses pursuant to OCGA 36-60-13 apply: (1) The contract shall terminate absolutely and without further obligation on the part of the City or County at the close of the calendar year in which it was executed and at the close of each succeeding calendar year for which it may be renewed; (2) The contract may provide for automatic renewal unless positive action is taken by the City or County to terminate such contract, and the nature of such action shall be determined by the City or County and specified in the contract; (3) The contract shall state the total obligation of the City or County for the calendar year of execution and shall further state the total obligation which will be incurred in each calendar year renewal term, if renewed;

and (4) The contract shall provide that title to any supplies, materials, equipment, or other personal property shall remain in the vendor until fully paid for by the City or County.

6. Quote all prices F.O.B. Albany or our warehouse or as specified in proposal documents.

7. Each proposal shall be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope as a Sealed Proposal whether using a City furnished envelope or other envelopes.

8. Proposal must be received and stamped by the Procurement Office before time stipulated in proposal documents. No responsibility will attach to any City representative or employee for premature opening of proposal not properly addressed or identified.

9. Proposals received late will not be accepted, and the City will not be responsible for late mail delivery.

10. Should a proposal be misplaced by the City and found later it will be considered.

11. Proposals requiring bid security will not be read or considered if security is not enclosed. Security may be in the form of cash, certified check, cashier’s check or Surety Bond issued by a Surety Company licensed to conduct business in Georgia.

12. All proposers must be recognized and authorized dealers in the materials or equipment specified and be qualified to advise in their application or use. A proposer at any time requested must satisfy the Procurement Office and City Commission that he has the requisite organization, capital, plant, stock, ability and experience to satisfactorily execute the contract in accordance with the provisions of the contract in which he is interested.

13. Any alterations, erasures, additions or omissions of required information or any changes of specifications, or cost schedule are done at the risk of the proposer.

14. When requested, SAMPLES will be furnished free of expense, properly marked for identification and accompanied by list where there is more than one sample. The City reserves the right to mutilate or destroy any samples submitted whenever it may be in the best interests of the City to do so for the purpose of testing.

15. City will reject any material, supplies or equipment that do not meet the specifications, even though proposal lists the trade name or names of such materials on the bid or price quotation form.

16. The unauthorized use of patented articles is done entirely at the risk of the successful proposer.

17. The ESTIMATED QUANTITY given in the specifications or advertisement is for the purpose of seeking a proposal. The City may purchase more or less than the estimated quantity, and the vendor must not assume that such estimated quantity is part of the contract.

18. Only the latest model equipment as evidenced by the manufacturer’s current published literature will be considered. Obsolete models of equipment not in production will not be acceptable. Equipment shall be composed of new parts and materials. Any unit containing used parts or having seen any service other than the necessary tests will be rejected. In addition to the equipment specifically called for in the specifications, all equipment catalogued by the manufacturer as standard or required by the State of

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

Georgia shall be furnished with the equipment. Where required by the State of Georgia Motor Vehicle Code, vehicles shall be inspected and bear the latest inspection sticker of the Georgia Department of Revenue.

19. The successful proposer on motor vehicle equipment shall be required to furnish with delivery of vehicle, Certificate of Origin and Georgia vendors shall provide Georgia Motor Vehicle form MV1.

20. Proposers are responsible for examining the location of the proposed work or delivery and determining, in their own way, the difficulties, which are likely to be encountered in the prosecution of the same.

21. All materials, equipment and supplies shall be subject to rigid inspection, under the immediate supervision of the Procurement Officer and/or the Department to which they are delivered. If defective material, equipment or supplies are discovered, the contractor, upon being instructed by the Procurement Officer, shall remove, or make good such material, equipment or supplies without extra compensation. It is expressly understood and agreed that the inspection of materials by the City will in no way lessen the responsibility of the contractor or release him from his obligation to perform and deliver to the City sound and satisfactory materials, equipment or supplies. The proposer agrees to pay the cost of all tests on defective material, equipment or supplies or allow the cost to be deducted from any monies due him by the City or County.

22. Unless otherwise specified by the procurement officer all materials, supplies or equipment quoted herein must be delivered within thirty (30) days from date of notification or exception noted on bid sheet.

23. A contract will not be awarded to any corporation, firm or individual who is, from any cause, in arrears to the City/County or who has failed in any former contract with the City/County to perform work satisfactorily, either as to the character of the work, the fulfillment of the guarantee, or the time consumed in completing the work.

24. Reasonable grounds for supposing that any proposal is interested in more than one proposal for the same item will be considered sufficient cause for rejection of all proposals in which he is interested.

25. Unless otherwise specified the City reserves the right to award each item separately or on a lump sum basis, whichever is in the best interest of the City/County.

26. The City reserves the right to waive any minor discrepancies, reject any or all proposals, and to purchase any part, all or none of the services, materials, supplies or equipment specified.

27. Failure of the proposer to sign the offer or have the signature of any authorized representative or agent on the proposal will be cause for rejection of the proposal. Signature must be written in ink.

28. Any proposer may withdraw his proposer at any time before the time set for opening of proposals. No proposal may be withdrawn without cause in the 60-day period after proposals are opened.

29. It is mutually understood and agreed that if any time the Procurement Officer shall be of the opinion that the contract or any part thereof is unnecessarily delayed or that the rate of progress or delivery is unsatisfactory, or that the proposal is willfully violating any of the conditions or covenants of the agreement, or is executing the same in bad faith, the Procurement Officer shall have the power to notify the aforesaid proposer of the nature of the complaint. Notification shall constitute delivery of notice, or letter, to address given in proposal. If after three working days of notification the conditions are not corrected to the satisfaction of the Procurement Officer, he shall thereupon have the power to take whatever action he may deem necessary to complete the work or delivery herein described, or any part thereof, and the expense thereof, so charged, shall be deducted from any paid by the City out of such monies as may become due to the said proposer, under and by virtue of this agreement. In case such expense shall exceed the last said sum, then and in that event, the bondsman or the proposer, his executors, administrators, successors, or assigns, shall pay the amount of such excess to the City on notice by the Procurement Officer of the excess due.

30. If the proposer proposes to furnish any item of a foreign make or product, he should write “Foreign” together with the name of the originating country opposite such item on proposal.

31. Any complaint from proposer relative to the Invitation to Proposers or any attached specifications should be made prior to the time of opening of proposals, otherwise such complaint cannot be properly considered.

32. Contracts may be cancelled by the City/County with or without cause with 30-day written notice.

33. All Corporations should provide the corporate seal, a copy of the Secretary of State’s Certificate of Incorporation, and a listing of the principals of the corporation with the bid/proposal.

34. All bidders/proposers should provide their tax identification number with the bid/proposal.

35. The Board of Commissioners passed a local preference ordinance on January 27, 2015. Where applicable, this ordinance will govern. Local preference will not be a basis of award for projects that are federally funded.

36. The proposer shall secure all permits, license certificates, inspections (permanent and temporary) and occupational tax certificate, if applicable, before any work can commence. Proposer as well as any and all known subcontractors must possess or will be required to obtain a City of Albany Occupational Tax Certificate or Registration.

37. Prior to submitting proposal, check website at www.albanyga.gov or call the Procurement Office at 229-431-3211 for any subsequent addendums.

PROCUREMENT FORM - Revised 4/20/2018

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

http://www.albanyga.gov/

GENERAL CONDITIONS

1. Certification regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility, and Voluntary Exclusion:

The consultant certifies, by submission of this proposal or acceptance of a contract, that neither it nor its principals is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any State, Federal department, or agency. It further agrees by submitting this qualification statement that it will include this clause without modification in all lower tier transactions, solicitations, proposals, contracts, and subcontracts. Where the consultant or any lower tier participant is unable to certify this statement, it shall attach an explanation to this solicitation.

2. Proposers must have been in business under the present company name for a minimum of one (1) year.

The principals of the present company shall not have been declared in default on any contract under any other name within the last five (5) years. Individuals assigned to this project must collectively have at least five (5) years of experience on projects of similar scope and complexity.

3. The successful Proposer will be required to provide the Secretary of States Certification of Incorporation prior to award of contract.

4. GEORGIA SECURITY & IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE ACT: The successful proposer will provide certification that they are in compliance with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act, certifying that the provisions of GA Law, O.C.G.A 13-10-91, Chapter 300-10-1, per the Georgia Department of Labor, if applicable, have been complied with in full. Pursuant to O.C.G.A 13-10-90(2), all subcontractors entering into a contract or agreement for hire on this Project must be registered and participate in the Federal Work Authorization Program.

5. Certificate of Non-Collusion: An executed copy of this form should accompany your submittal. (See Attached).

6. Governing Law & Venue: An executed copy of this form should accompany your submittal. (See Attached).

7. Indemnity: An executed copy of this form should accompany your submittal. (See Attached).

8. The contract resulting from acceptance of a proposal shall be in a form supplied or approved by the City and shall reflect the specifications in this RFP. The City reserves the right to reject any proposed agreement or contract that does not conform to the specifications contained in the RFP.

9. Lobbying: All firms and their agents who intend to or have submitted responses to this solicitation are hereby placed on formal notice that lobbying of City of Albany Government employees or members of the Evaluation Committee with the intent to manipulate the Procurement process may result in the immediate disqualification of such firm by the City from further consideration for this project.

10. Any proposal may be withdrawn up until the date and time set for opening of the proposals. Any proposal not so timely withdrawn shall constitute an irrevocable offer, for a period of sixty (60) days or until one of the proposals has been approved by the City Commission, whichever occurs first, to sell to the City the services described in this RFP.

11. By submitting a proposal, the Contractor certifies that it has read and understands this Request for Proposals and has full knowledge and willingness to comply with the scope, nature, quantity and quality of the work to be performed, the detailed requirements of the services to be provided and the conditions under which the services are to be performed.

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

12. Termination for Convenience: This contract may be terminated in whole or in part by the City of Albany with the consent of the contractor in which case the two parties shall agree upon the termination conditions, including the effective date in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated or by the contractor upon written notification to the City of Albany setting forth the reasons for such termination, the effective date, and in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. However, if in the case of partial termination, the City of Albany determines that the remaining portion of the award will not accomplish the purposes for which the contract was awarded, the City of Albany may terminate the contract in its entirety.

13. Termination for Cause: In the event that the contractor shall for any reason or through any cause be in default of the terms, conditions, or obligations of the contract documents, the City may give the contractor written notice of such default and terminate the contract. All terms, conditions, and obligations of the contract documents are considered material. The City may, in its discretion, provide the contractor an opportunity to cure the default, if curable, prior to termination. Unless a different duration is provided in the notice of default, the contractor shall have fourteen (14) calendar days to cure the default from the date such notice is mailed to the contractor, unless notification is by facsimile or personal delivery, in which case the opportunity to cure shall commence upon delivery of the notice. Upon failure of the contractor to cure the default the City may immediately terminate the contract effective as of the mailing or delivery of the default notice. If the City terminates the contract, the contractor shall remain liable for performance of all terms, conditions, and obligations through the date of termination. Termination by the City shall not constitute a waiver by the City of any other rights or remedies available to the City by law or contract.

14. Excusable Delay: The Contractor shall not be liable for any excess costs, if the failure to perform the contract arises out of causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Contractor.

Such causes may include, but are not restricted to, acts of God or of the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, freight embargoes, and unusually severe weather; but in every case the failure to perform must be beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Contractor. If the failure to perform is caused by the default of a subcontractor, and if such default arises out of causes beyond the control of both the Contractor and the subcontractor, and without the fault or negligence of either of them, the Contractor shall not be liable for any excess costs for failure to perform, unless the supplies or services to be furnished by the subcontractor were obtainable from other sources in sufficient time to permit the Contractor to meet the required delivery schedule.

15. Offeror Responsibility: Each offeror shall fully acquaint himself with conditions relating to the scope and restrictions attending the execution of the work under the conditions of this proposal. It is expected that this will sometimes require on-site observation. The failure or omission of an offeror to acquaint himself with existing conditions shall in no way relieve him of any obligation with respect to this proposal or to the contract.

16. Affirmative Action: The Contractor will take affirmative action in complying with all Federal and State requirements concerning fair employment and employment of the handicapped and concerning the treatment of all employees, without regard or discrimination by reason of race, religion, sex, national origin, or physical handicap.

17. Prime Contractor Responsibilities: The Contractor will be required to assume sole responsibility for the complete effort, as required by this RFP. The City will consider the Contractor to be the sole point of contact with regard to contractual matters.

18. Ownership of Material: Ownership of all data, material, and documentation originated and prepared for the City pursuant to this contract shall belong exclusively to the City.

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

The mailing address is P.O. Box 447, Albany, Georgia 31702, however, the City of Albany assumes no responsibility for submittals received after the advertised deadline or at any office or location other than that specified herein, whether due to mail delays, courier mistake, mishandling, or any other reason.

The submittal must be signed by an official authorized to bind the offeror. Any submittal received after the stated time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the firm.

The City of Albany reserves the right to accept or reject any and all responses and to waive technicalities as deemed to be in the best interest of the City of Albany. The City of Albany reserves the right to request additional information from a respondent(s) as deemed necessary to analyze responses.

Proposal should address all items included in the EVALUATION CRITERIA section below. Past performance on similar projects should be documented by references and other means. References should include name of contact and phone number and should be current. The scope of work, the elements and tasks therein and the method of accomplishment shall be outlined in the proposal.

Successful proposer shall provide a contract covering all the terms and conditions of this request and those agreed to in the negotiation. A sample contract should be attached to the proposal.

19. SELECTION PROCESS: A Proposal Analysis Group (PAG) will review all responses submitted in reference to this RFP. Based upon the background information reported in the response, the review committee will determine whether the proposer is qualified or unqualified.

Any or all of the firm(s) may be requested to expand on their response and/or make a formal presentation. However, The City of Albany reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposals submitted. Therefore, proposals should be submitted initially as the most responsive on which the firm can propose.

The evaluation team will make a recommendation to the City Commission for contract award. The City of Albany reserves the right to reject any and all proposals submitted in response to this RFP, in whole or in part, and to award a contract pursuant to this RFP or cancel this RFP if it is considered to be in the best interests of the City of Albany. The City of Albany further reserves the right to make changes to this RFP at any time by issuance of written addendum/addenda, amendments(s) or clarification(s).

20. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS: The response must be concise and clear. Unnecessary elaborate brochures or other presentations beyond sufficient substance to present a complete and effective response are not advised.

A. Introduction: Provide general company information including the address of the local office and company history evidencing business operation for a minimum of one (1) year.

B. Staff Qualifications: Provide an organizational chart that illustrates how the company is organized and managed. Provide resumes of those key staff members who will be completing the work with detailed relevant project experience. This submittal should demonstrate the background experience of each individual and provide a description of professional status or applicable certification(s). Two-page limit on individual resumes.

C. Company Qualifications/References: Provide a list of a minimum of five (5) representative projects of comparable type work completed. Provide a brief description of the project, project start and completion dates, client name, address, contact person, telephone number, and key staff member's

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of name and responsibility. Submit a reference letter from at least three (3) of the five (5) representative projects listed, attesting to satisfactory performance of completed work.

D. Schedule: Provide a timeline for the completion of this work and relevant evidence to attest to the Company's ability to fulfil this contract in a timely matter.

E. Project Approach: Provide a brief narrative of the company’s plan to perform and complete this contract within the guidelines provided.

END OF GENERAL CONDITIONS

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

II. Project Description A. Introduction DDA and the City are seeking proposals for the design and redevelopment of 205/207 Pine Ave.

(Hotel Gordon and the subject property) that will enhance the local hospitality landscape and increase activity in the downtown commercial core. The Hotel Gordon, located only blocks from the picturesque banks of the Flint River, will be a unique boutique hotel, aiming for a four-star rating, which will be a destination for leisure travelers and offer the business sector amenities which are unparalleled in Southwest Georgia.

The City is committed to supporting the growth of its tourism industry and is prepared to consider a variety of development approaches, including land write-downs, tax increment financing, and a low interest bridge loan, to facilitate a quality boutique hotel that maximizes economic benefits for the community.

B. Market Overview Albany has long served as the commercial and cultural hub of Southwest Georgia. Beautifully positioned along the Flint River, the City is known for its Southern hospitality, vibrant culture, and dynamic economy. Often referred to as “The Good Life City” and the “Pecan Capital of the World”, Albany boasts beautiful weather year-round and a low cost of living, making it an attractive place to live and raise a family.

The population of the MSA exceeds 146,000 and the City has approximately 70,000 residents.

The City’s blend of historical significance and forward-looking infrastructure creates an ideal backdrop for businesses and investors seeking long-term growth opportunities. Since the devastating flood which ravaged much of Albany in 1994, over $800 million has been invested in the area, fostering a stable economy that supports a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large-scale operations. The local economy is anchored by major industries such as healthcare, education and manufacturing. Phoebe Putney Health System and the Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany are the region’s largest employers. Albany State University, with over 6,000 students, is the state’s largest HBCU. Proctor & Gamble, Molson Coors, and Mars Chocolate North America are key corporate stakeholders.

Albany is located in the heart of Georgia’s Plantation Trace. This region is known for its scenic beauty, historic plantations, and vibrant outdoor recreation options. Residents and visitors enjoy year-round access to parks, rivers, and trails, making the City a destination for both leisure and business travel. By leveraging Albany’s strategic position in the region, developers have the opportunity to contribute to the City’s transformation while benefiting from a market eager for a new hospitality venture. The combination of an untapped market, consistent and increasing business travel, and a commitment to economic development, creates an attractive setting for a boutique hotel that will serve the growing influx of visitors.

Renovation of the Hotel Gordon is identified as a priority in the Downtown Albany Master Plan.

The master plan can be accessed at https://downtown.albanyga.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/13357/638415335261370000 .

Note: Adjacent parking lot is included in Downtown Albany Master Plan (page 52).

C. The Property Hotel Gordon opened in 1925 with 115 rooms and was the City’s premier hotel for generations.

The building, which is six-stories and 57,200 sq. ft., occupies a prime location in the heart of downtown Albany, on the northwest corner of the intersection of Washington St. and Pine Ave.

The Hotel Gordon is situated within walking distance of key attractions, including the Flint RiverQuarium, the Albany Municipal Auditorium, the Ray Charles Plaza, and a variety of local

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

https://downtown.albanyga.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/13357/638415335261370000 restaurants and shops and has the potential to once again serve as a focal point of activity in the downtown area.

The Hotel Gordon operated as a hotel until the early 1970s and was purchased by the City in 1976. The bottom three stories were renovated and housed the Water, Gas & Light Department (now Albany Utilities) until its operations were relocated in 2017. The City deeded the property to the DDA, leaving the building vacant and ready for its next chapter. The Hotel Gordon, with its grand exterior of brick, historic detailing, and expansive floor plan, offers a unique opportunity for adaptive reuse that blends old-world charm with modern functionality.

The building once contained Albany’s primary data center. The prior infrastructure for the data center, which includes high-speed fiber Internet services and advanced telecommunication systems, remains intact. This robust telecommunications foundation is ideal for modern office and business use and could be beneficial to future tenants. This space is, alternatively, available for additional interior development.

The City remediated the Hotel Gordon with a Brownfield Grant and has received a completion report.

D. Objectives Create a Unique Boutique Hotel Experience – The subject property is to be converted into a boutique hotel that attracts both leisure and business travelers, contributing to the overall growth of Albany’s tourism sector and enriching the community. Guest rooms and suites should

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of reflect Albany’s rich history and Southern charm, offering a unique stay experience compared to traditional hotel chains. A full-service restaurant, which would preferably feature local produce and cuisine, a stylish lounge that will serve as a gathering place for both guests and residents, and a fitness center (and possibly some other wellness facilities, such as a spa or outdoor relaxation area) should be included in the project. The hotel should also provide meeting and event space, equipped with modern amenities for a variety of functions, that cater to both corporate retreats/workshops and community events.

Ensure Design Quality and Compatibility – The Hotel Gordon occupies a visible location in downtown Albany. Appropriate design techniques and materials should be employed to ensure that redevelopment produces a high quality, attractive building, that enhances the appearance of the area.

Sustainability Initiatives – Employ environmentally-friendly practices in construction and operation, including energy-efficient systems, water conservation, and sustainable materials.

These features reflect a commitment to sustainability and will appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.

Reinvesting in the Community – All phases of construction afford the developer an opportunity to reinvest in the community. Materials can be purchased locally, and local businesses can be utilized as subcontractors.

Create Downtown Activity and Strengthen Connectivity – The Hotel Gordon shall serve as a gateway to local attractions, providing guests with curated experiences that highlight Albany’s landmarks and outdoor activities. Guests will visit nearby attractions and patronize downtown restaurants, bars and businesses. Design and operations should assure the hotel is connected to other downtown venues, to enhance the overall visitor experience and stimulate revitalization of the downtown area.

Support Community Engagement – The Hotel Gordon should foster a sense of community by incorporating spaces for art exhibitions and cultural activities that engage both residents and guests.

III. Evaluation Criteria A. Firm Qualifications (20%) Each proposal should describe the firm’s areas of specialization, identify the firm’s legal structure and ownership, size of the firm, and specify the length of time the firm has been in business.

The principals and associates who would be involved in this project should be identified, with details of the relevant qualifications and experience of these principals and associates. The qualifications and experience of other key team members, including architects, engineers and construction managers, should also be included.

The proposal should provide a list of successful projects, completed or underway, of a similar scope and size, and list awards, special recognition, and distinctions achieved by your firm.

Separate firm profiles should be submitted for each firm if the proposal is a joint venture or partnership of two or more entities.

B. Project Approach (15%) The proposal should include a narrative outlining your firm’s approach to development of historic buildings, highlighting the strategy and process whereby your firm will accomplish the City’s Objectives for this project. The narrative should detail the ideal development of the subject

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of property, to include number of rooms, the size and character of the restaurant and lounge, chain affiliation, if any, and other amenities.

The narrative should further describe the overall scope of the project, set forth a timeframe within which the project would commence and be completed, to include a construction schedule, and include any other relevant information. The construction schedule should demonstrate your firm’s readiness and ability to meet schedules, control costs, and effectively resolve problems which are frequently encountered in the rehabilitation of historic properties.

Redevelopment may involve the addition of elevator access to enhance usability. Significant features, such as key architectural elements, should be retained to accentuate the building’s historic character while adapting it for modern use. The opportunity to incorporate and recover original elements, such as flooring, light fixtures, and metal work, should be exercised.

Illustrations of the contemplated site plan, to include entrances, guest drop-off, and outdoor spaces, such as gardens and/or courtyards, and interior renovations, to include guest rooms, suites, the lobby, event center, restaurant and lounge, as well as any other amenities, will assist in evaluating your firm’s proposal.

C. Experience with Similar Projects (20%) List and describe your firm’s experience with historic rehabilitation to adaptively reuse historic buildings in downtown areas; including whether or not historic tax incentives were used.

Provide the general dollar amount of each project and explain how the design and redevelopment of these similar projects maintained the historical integrity of the existing building while providing modern amenities and services.

List firm projects in which government funding, particularly NMTC, HTC, and CPACE, has been utilized. Recount the application and approval process, explain what requirements were imposed as a condition of securing these funds, and identify the amount and source allocated for each project.

D. Budget and Funding Sources (15%) The proposal should set forth a budget for the project, to include costs for design, permits, insurance, construction, and furniture, fixtures and equipment. The proposal should also identify anticipated sources of funding, your firm’s strategy for accessing government funding, and list any financial partnerships. DDA and the City are particularly interested in the level of equity participation each firm is prepared to commit to the project, and this figure should be included in the proposal.

E. Professional References (15%) Provide contact information (names, telephone numbers, addresses, and e-mail) for representatives of at least three projects completed by your firm, so that DDA and the City can obtain feedback of past work and customer satisfaction.

F. How Does Proposal Meet Objectives (15%) Each proposal will be evaluated based on alignment with the Objectives for the project.

Proposals that leverage Albany’s rich history, cultural heritage, and scenic riverfront will be prioritized, and additional weight will be afforded to proposals that incorporate innovative solutions and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

DDA and the City reserve the right to afford additional weight to proposals of those firms submitting proposals for Proposal Ref. 25-027 and Proposal Ref. 25-028, where the proposal includes an outline identifying any synergies or efficiencies achieved by managing both sites.

IV. Incentives New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Program – This program encourages investment in low-income communities. Real estate projects or businesses in a low-income community can generate capital by providing investors – typically a bank or financial institution – with a tax credit as an additional incentive for investment.

Federal Historic Tax Credit Program (HTC) – This program encourages private sector investment in the rehabilitation and reuse of historic buildings. The federal tax credit allows program participants to claim 20% of eligible improvement expenses against their federal tax liability. While Hotel Gordon is not listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the City has submitted an application to have the downtown designated as a Historic District. The project would be eligible for HTC should that application be successful.

Georgia State Income Tax Credit Program for Rehabilitated Historic Property – This program encourages private sector investment in the rehabilitation and reuse of historic buildings. The state tax credit allows program participants to claim 25% (up to a maximum of $5 million) of eligible improvement expenses against their state tax liability. While Hotel Gordon is not listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the City has submitted an application to have the downtown designated as a Historic District. The project would be eligible for the State Income Tax Credit Program should that application be successful.

State Preferential Property Tax Assessment for Rehabilitated Historic Property – This incentive freezes the county property tax assessment for more than eight years, where rehabilitation of a historic property increases the fair market value by 100%. The property must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places and meet the DCA’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

CPACE (Commercial Property Access Clean Energy) Financing – Developers can access CPACE financing for energy-efficient improvements, renewable energy installations, and water conservation measures. This program allows property owners to finance qualifying upgrades and repay the costs through a property tax assessment over an extended term, often resulting in positive cash flow for a project.

Opportunity Zone Benefits – The subject property, being located within a designated Opportunity Zone, would qualify for federal capital gains tax incentives, offering significant tax deferral and exclusion benefits for investors who reinvest capital gains into the project.

Georgia Job Tax Credit – Tax credit of $4,000 per job, per year, for the first five years of each qualifying job created within a five-year window after the project qualifies.

Georgia Cities Foundation Loan Program – GCF offers loans of up to $250,000 for building rehabilitation, at below market interest rates.

Acquisition Cost Reduction – DDA and the City are committed to securing the best qualified developer for this project and may agree to sell the subject property for less than fair market value.

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

Low Interest Loan – The City is prepared to offer bridge financing to the project at below market interest rates.

Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund (DDRLF) – The DDA may provide approval of up to 25% of the development costs through the DDRLF. The DDA offers flexibility in the repayment of the loan to assure the success of the project.

V. Requirements and Schedule

1. Respondent(s) are advised that, from the date of release of this RFP until award of the contract, NO contact with City personnel related to this RFP is permitted, except as authorized by the Procurement Office. Any such unauthorized contact may result in the disqualification of the respondent’s submittal.

2. Respondent(s) are presumed to be familiar with all Federal, State and local laws, ordinances, codes and regulations that may in any way affect the services offered, and shall comply with all laws, ordinances and regulations applicable to the services contemplated herein, including those applicable to conflict of interest and collusion. Executed copies of the Certificate of Non-Collusion and Governing Law and Venue should accompany each proposal. (See attached).

3. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on December 4, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Government Center, located at 222 Pine Ave., Ste. 260, Albany, GA 31701. Following the meeting, a tour of the Hotel Gordon will take place. DDA and the City strongly encourage all firms interested in this project to attend this meeting and site visit to assure each firm which submits a proposal has a comprehensive understanding of the site conditions and project requirements.

4. Explanation(s) desired by respondent(s) regarding the meaning or interpretation of this RFP must be requested from the Procurement Office, in writing, no later than December 19, 2024, by 5:00 p.m. The request for additional information or clarification must contain the respondent’s name, address, phone number, and facsimile number. Requests will be accepted by e-mail to rgladney@albanyga.gov cc: jswilliams@albanyga.gov, and kross@albanyga.gov.

5. Respondent(s) may take exceptions to any of the terms of this RFP unless the RFP specifically states where exceptions may not be taken. All exceptions taken must be specific, and the respondent must indicate clearly what alternative is being offered to allow DDA and the City a meaningful opportunity to evaluate and rank its proposal. DDA and the City, after completing evaluations, may accept or reject the exceptions.

Where exceptions are rejected, DDA and the City may request that the respondent furnish the information described herein or negotiate an acceptable alternative. Where exceptions are permitted, DDA and the City shall determine the acceptability of the exceptions, and the proposal will be evaluated based on the proposal as submitted. Should a respondent take exception where none is permitted, the proposal may be rejected as non-responsive.

6. The Procurement Office will issue responses to inquiries and any other corrections or amendments it deems necessary in written addenda issued prior to the Proposal Due Date.

Respondents should not rely on any representations, statements or explanations other than those made in this RFP or in any addendum to this RFP. Where there appears to be a conflict between the RFP and any addendum issued, the last addendum issued will prevail.

7. It is the respondent’s responsibility to be sure all addenda are received. The respondent should verify with the designated contact person, prior to submitting a proposal, that all addenda have been received. Respondents should acknowledge the number of addenda

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.

mailto:rgladney@albanyga.gov mailto:jswilliams@albanyga.gov mailto:kross@albanyga.gov received as part of their proposals or sign a copy of the addenda and include it with the proposal.

8. Submit one (1) digital version, in PDF format, and seven (7) printed copies of your proposal on company letterhead, signed by a duly authorized official of the firm. Submittals should be clearly marked on the outside as “RFP. #25-027, Purchase and Development of 205/207 Pine Ave.”. Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 p.m., EDT, on January 3, 2025, at the City of Albany Procurement Office, 222 Pine Ave., Ste. 260, Albany, GA 31701.

Sealed responses may be hand delivered or mailed to the above listed address. SEALED

SUBMITTALS MUST BE DELIVERED IN WRITING. VERBAL RESPONSES ARE NOT

ACCEPTABLE.

9. The City assumes no responsibility for submittals received after the Proposal Due Date or at any office or location other than that specified herein, whether due to mail delays, courier mistake, mishandling, or any other reason. If submittals are delivered by other than hand delivery, it is recommended that the firm verify delivery. Any submittal received after the Proposal Due Date will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the firm.

10. No proposal shall be accepted from, nor will any contract be awarded to, any respondent who is in arrears to the City upon any debt, fee, tax, or contract, or who is a defaulter, as surety or otherwise, upon any obligation to the City, or who is otherwise determined to be irresponsible or unreliable by the City.

11. The respondent may withdraw a proposal submitted by providing a written request to withdraw the proposal to the Procurement Office prior to the Proposal Due Date.

Withdrawal of a proposal will not cause prejudice or interfere with the right of the respondent to submit a new proposal, provided the latter is received by the Proposal Due Date. No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days following the Proposal Due Date.

12. Upon receipt, proposals shall become the property of the City, for disposition or usage at the discretion of the City. No payment will be made for any proposals received, or for any other effort required of or made by the respondent(s) prior to commencement of work as defined by a contract approved by the City of Albany Board of Commissioners. All expenses involved with the preparation and submission of proposals, or any work performed in connection therewith, shall be borne by the respondent(s).

13. A Proposal Analysis Group (PAG) will review all proposals submitted. Based upon the background information reported in the RFP, the PAG will determine whether the respondent is qualified or unqualified. The PAG will rank the qualified firms based on the data submitted.

14. DDA and the City of Albany Board of Commissioners will schedule interviews of firms, based upon the ranking of the PAG, during which each firm will be afforded an opportunity to make a formal presentation regarding its qualifications to perform the project and otherwise demonstrate its ability to meet the Evaluation Criteria. The top ranked firms will be selected for final negotiations.

15. It is anticipated that the contract will be awarded on January 29, 2025.

16. DDA and the City will evaluate proposals, at their sole and absolute discretion; reserve the right to waive any informality or irregularity not affected by law; and reserve the right to reject any or all proposals.

17. The firm which is awarded the contract for purchase and development of the subject property (Successful Proposer) will:

RFP #25-027 Purchase and Development of

(a) be responsible for all claims for damages for injuries to persons or property arising out of the performance of its contract, whether due to its own default, or the negligence of its sub-contractors, and indemnify the City on account of such claims, and will indemnify the City fully against any damages, fines, penalties or forfeitures of any kind which may be imposed upon or levied against the City as the result of the Successful Proposer’s violation or failure to comply with any valid law, ordinance or regulation of the United States, State of Georgia, or the City, including the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended from time to time, or any federal regulation adopted pursuant thereto, and the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act. The firm will be required to execute an Indemnity Agreement. (See attached).

(b) procure and maintain in force, at its expense, liability insurance including General, Automobile, and Errors and Omissions of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and an annual aggregate, where it applies, of at least $2,000,000.

(c) provide certification that the firm is in compliance with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act, certifying that the provisions of OCGA § 36-60-13, per the Georgia Department of Labor, if applicable, have been completed in full. Pursuant to OCGA § 36-60-13 all subcontractors entering into a contract or agreement for hire on the project must be registered and participate in the Federal Work Authorization Program. (See attached).

(d) provide certification that a Drug Free Workplace will be provided on the project. (See attached).

(e) provide certification that neither the firm nor its principals, nor any subcontractor, are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for disbarment, declared ineligible, or…