Request for Proposal

No. RFP No. DEPT HERE-0312

FOR

SCULPTOUR DOWNTOWN ROTATING PUBLIC ART PROGRAM

CURATOR

Contact: Ali Robinson, Principal Management Analyst

Email: alirobinson@santacruzca.gov

RESPONSE DEADLINE: August 14, 2026, 4:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca

City of Santa Cruz

SculpTOUR Downtown Rotating Public Art Program Curator

I. INTRODUCTION

II. GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PROPOSERS

III. PRELIMINARY SCOPE OF WORK

IV. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

V. EVALUATION CRITERIA

VI. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

VII. SELECTION PROCESS & AWARD PROTEST INSTRUCTIONS

Attachments:

A - Professional Services Agreement SAMPLE with Insurance

B - EXAMPLE Additional Insured Endorsement

C - Sculptour map 4 sites

E - Sculptour image 1

F - Sculptour image 2

G - Sculptour image 3

H - 2026 SculpTOUR Curator RFP Flyer

#RFP No. DEPT HERE-0312 Title: SculpTOUR Downtown Rotating Public Art Program Curator

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Summary

Introduction

The City of Santa Cruz Office of Economic Development invites qualified curators or curatorial teams to submit proposals to lead the artistic direction, artist selection, and exhibition management for

SculpTour, an outdoor rotating sculpture exhibition program designed to enhance public space, support artists with highly visable gallery space, and engage the community.

Project Goals

• Present high-quality, diverse, and engaging sculptural works

• Activate public spaces and enhance cultural vibrancy

• Support artists in the sale of their works

• Provide accessible art experiences for residents and visitors

• Strengthen the city’s identity as a cultural destination

Purpose of the RFP

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit qualified individuals or teams to serve as the Curator for SculpTour, responsible for artist selection, exhibition planning, installation oversight, community education about the program and gallery space, and coordination with the City staff.

1.2. Background

About Santa Cruz: The City of Santa Cruz was incorporated in 1866 and formed its current charter in

1948. It is governed under a Council/Manager form of government. A Mayor and six Council members set policy for the City and a City Manager serves as chief administrator of those policies. The City is located on the coast, 75 miles south of San Francisco on the northern edge of the Monterey Bay. It encompasses 15.8 square miles with cultural and ethnic diversity among its population of 65,000. Santa

Cruz is part of the National Marine Sanctuary and is a popular tourist destination owing to its beaches, surf culture, and historical landmarks.

The City provides a full range of municipal services and facilities including a recreational wharf, public golf course, over thirteen hundred acres of open space, full beach services, refuse management, law enforcement, fire protection, and water and wastewater utilities. The City is also host to University of

California Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Harbor, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park.

About SculpTOUR: Since 2008, the City of Santa Cruz has proudly presented SculpTOUR- a rotating collection of sculptures throughout downtown. The City has enjoyed marching penguins, rocky dogs, and an assortment of kinetic and interactive works. There are currently four locations for these temporary works of art. Since its creation, the artwork management and selection has been done in house with City staff. To elevate the program and create bandwidth, in its Fiscal Year 2027 budget, the

City allocated funds for the SculpTOUR program to contract with a professional Curator to support a new round of sculpture public art for the four pad locations in downtown Santa Cruz.

1.3. Contact Information

Ali Robinson

Principal Management Analyst

Email: alirobinson@santacruzca.gov

Phone: (831) 420-5150

Department:

City Manager

Department Head:

Matt Huffaker

City Manager

1.4. Timeline

The City will make every effort to adhere to the following tentative schedule. All dates set forth in this

RFP are subject to change at the City’s sole discretion. Any change will be set forth in an addendum. All references in this RFP to “time” are Pacific Standard Time.

Release Project Date June 25, 2026

Optional Pre-Proposal Site Visit (Non-

Mandatory)

July 1, 2026, 11:00am

In-person Pacific Avenue at Church Street Santa

Cruz (optional)

RFP Questions and Response Due Date August 5, 2026, 12:00pm

Proposal Submission Deadline August 14, 2026, 4:00pm mailto:alirobinson@santacruzca.gov tel:(831)420-5150

2. GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PROPOSERS

2.1. Summary Scope of Work

All applicants must provide thorough and comprehensive responses that clearly demonstrate their team’s approach to and consistency with the below-mentioned standards.

The City invites qualified firms to respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP) for the project (“Project”) titled below:

SculpTOUR Downtown Rotating Public Art Program Curator

RFP No. RFP No. DEPT HERE-0312

The City anticipates awarding a contract to a vendor for a three year term. The Proposer will provide the services outlined in Section PRELIMINARY SCOPE OF WORK.

The successful Proposer shall furnish all tools, equipment, materials, tax, apparatus, facilities, labor, transportation, supervision, and management, not specifically provided by the City, to complete the work described in this RFP. The successful Proposer will provide a brief statement of services, as detailed further in Section PRELIMINARY SCOPE OF WORK.

2.2. Contact

If you have any questions concerning this solicitation, please ask questions utilizing City’s e-Procurement

Question & Answer feature. This RFP document may be downloaded from the City’s e-Procurement

Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401. For technical assistance, contact OpenGov using the real-time chat feature on the Portal (located in the lower right-hand corner of the screen), or via email at procurement-support@opengov.com for support. All questions must be received by 12:00 pm on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

2.3. Proposal Submittal Due Date

Proposals are due no later than 4:00 pm on Friday, August 14, 2026, to guarantee review. Proposals received after the deadline will be deemed non-responsive. All proposals will be submitted via City’s e-

Procurement Portal at: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401.

Proposers take full responsibility for City’s receipt of its Proposal. The City will not be liable for any expenses incurred by Proposers in responding to this solicitation, including but not limited to any costs associated with interviews.

It is the responsibility of the Proposer to ensure that electronic submittals are received by the City prior to the deadline.

2.4. Pre-Proposal Meeting

A pre-proposal meeting is scheduled on the date and time and at the location stated in Timeline in

INTRODUCTION Section. The purpose of this meeting is to give Proposers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the City’s requirements. Clarification and a review of the RFP process will be discussed https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636327 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636327 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401 mailto:procurement-support@opengov.com https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636326 at the pre-proposal meeting. To expedite the sign-in process, the city will accept a company business card containing the attendee’s name and contact information, as a valid sign-in. Attendance at the pre-proposal conference is not mandatory, however, it is strongly encouraged.

The City complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodations in order to attend the pre-bid meeting, please call the contact listed in the INTRODUCTION section at least

48 hours prior to the meeting.

2.5. Responsiveness and Responsibility

When determining the Responsiveness of the proposal, the City may consider any of the following but not limited to:

A. Proposal received on time and completed per instructions.

B. Proposal contains required contents, forms and signatures submitted in accordance with RFP instructions.

C. Proposal is compliant with specifications and industry standards.

When determining the Responsibility of the Proposer, the City may consider any of the following but not limited to:

A. Possession of industry standard licensing and/or certifications.

B. Financial capacity of the Proposer.

C. Experience or past performance of the Proposer.

D. Use of Subcontractors / Subconsultants.

E. Past, Present and Pending Legal Actions.

F. Exceptions with City’s Terms and Conditions.

G. Anticipated adherence with Project delivery schedule.

H. Ability to respond to City’s inquiries for proposal clarification.

Proposers have the right to take exception to the specifications or terms and conditions of this RFP, however, such exceptions may deem the proposal non-responsible. Any exceptions taken must be explained in the proposal and submitted by the submittal due date. Any exceptions that contradict the

City’s terms and conditions or contain provisions that are not in the best interest of the City will disqualify the Proposer. If exceptions are not explained, the Proposer will comply with the specifications as stated in this RFP. Exceptions submitted after the proposal due date will not be accepted.

The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any informality or minor defect in proposals received.

2.6. Definitions

In this RFP document:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636326

A. “Proposer” means contractor, firm, supplier, vendor, or consultant submitting a proposal to this

RFP.

B. “Proposal” means the complete submittal of Proposer to the City in response to this RFP, including any written documentation and oral interview responses.

C. “Subcontractor” means those performing any portion of the services as subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, and other business entities and individuals that is not the Proposer.

D. “Key Staff”, if required, means the employees of the Contractor or subcontractor(s) that will provide project leadership or expertise in lead technical services and are considered essential to the success of the Project.

E. “Contract” also means Purchase Order or Agreement.

3. PRELIMINARY SCOPE OF WORK

3.1. Project Goals

The program is dedicated to enriching the city’s cultural landscape by showcasing high-quality, diverse, and engaging sculptural works that enliven public spaces and invite community connection. By supporting artists in sharing and selling their creations, it expands access to meaningful art experiences for residents and visitors alike. Together, these efforts strengthen the city’s identity as a vibrant cultural destination and celebrate sculpture artists.

Program Goals:

• Present high-quality, diverse, and engaging sculptural works

• Activate public spaces and enhance cultural vibrancy

• Support artists in the sale of their works

• Provide accessible art experiences for residents and visitors

• Strengthen the city’s identity as a cultural destination

3.2. Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

These are the baseline requirements that must be met for a proposal to be considered responsible.

Proposals failing to meet any minimum qualification are disqualified before scoring.

3.1 Professional Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of curatorial experience in curating public art, sculpture, outdoor exhibitions, or museum exhibits

• Demonstrated experience managing multi-artist exhibitions or public art programs

• Proven ability to coordinate installation of large-scale or outdoor artworks

3.2 Project Management Competency

• Experience developing and managing project schedules, budgets, and contracts

• Demonstrated ability to manage/advise on logistics for transportation, installation, and deinstallation

3.3 Communication & Collaboration

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Experience with community engagement or public-facing programming

• Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders (artists, city staff, sponsors, engineers, fabricators)

3.4 Administrative Requirements

• Ability to meet insurance requirements (e.g., general liability, workers comp, auto). Insurance requirement for the Curator vendor only, the artists installed artwork will be insured through the City of Santa Cruz. City website vendor information: Bidding Information | City of Santa Cruz, CA Insurance information: Insurance Requirements for Consultants

• Ability to comply with city/vendor registration requirements

• If submitting as a team, the City will only contract with one legal entity (one taxID).

• No outstanding legal or contractual conflicts with the City of Santa Cruz

3.3. Scope of Work

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit qualified individuals or teams to serve as the Curator for SculpTOUR, responsible for artist selection, exhibition planning, installation oversight, community education about the program and gallery space, and coordination with the City staff.

Scope of Work (Summary)

• Develop curatorial vision and thematic direction with input from Arts Commission

• Through an open and public process recruit artists

• Manage artwork selection, placement, and installation logistics

• Coordinate with City staff and artists

• Develop interpretive materials (labels, maps, digital content)

• Participate in public outreach and social media campaigns to facilitate and bring awareness to the art gallery sculptures for sale

• Facilitate sale of artwork during display period including logistics of removal, loading and filling vacant space

• Provide project management, scheduling, and reporting

3.4. Responsibilities of the City – Insurance Coverage for Sculptures

To ensure the protection and security of all artworks displayed through the program, the City will provide insurance coverage for each accepted sculpture for the duration of its installation. This coverage safeguards the artwork against damage, theft, or loss while it is situated in approved public spaces. By assuming responsibility for insuring the sculptures, the City supports participating artists, reduces financial risk, and reinforces its commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable public art environment.

3.5. Responsibilities of the Artist - Exhibit Ready

Artists are responsible for ensuring that their sculptures are delivered in a condition suitable for public display and constructed to withstand outdoor environmental conditions for the full duration of the https://www.santacruzca.gov/Business-Development/Bidding-Information https://www.santacruzca.gov/Business-Development/Bidding-Information https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/2/fn/documents/purchasing/insurance-requirements-for-professional-services.pdf exhibition. Each artist must provide accurate documentation, including the artwork’s declared value, installation requirements, and any special handling instructions needed to support proper care and insurance coverage. The Curator and their contracted Artists are responsible for securely installing and deinstalling their works in coordination with City staff, as well as addressing any maintenance needs that arise due to natural wear. By fulfilling these responsibilities, artists help ensure the safety, longevity, and successful presentation of their sculptures within the program.

3.6. Responsibilities of the Curator – Installation Oversight

The Curator will oversee and manage the installation of all selected sculptures to ensure they are safely, securely, and appropriately placed within designated public spaces. This includes coordinating installation logistics, confirming that each artwork is sited according to the approved curatorial plan, and ensuring that all placement meets safety, accessibility, and aesthetic standards. The Curator will work directly with artists and City staff as needed to facilitate a smooth installation process and uphold the overall artistic vision of the program.

3.7. Vendor’s Employee Conduct

Vendor will agree to remove any employee whose conduct is improper, inappropriate, or offensive as determined by the City. A removed employee(s) is not to work on City premises without the written consent of the City. The Vendor will remove any employee from working in, or delivering to, City facilities who is convicted of a felony during his/her employment.

4. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

4.1. Proposal Response*

By confirming, the proposer is affirming to the following:

The proposer, upon acceptance, agrees to furnish the following in accordance with the specifications and terms and conditions per City of Santa Cruz “Request for Proposals for SculpTOUR Downtown

Rotating Public Art Program Curator” at the prices indicated herein.

The proposer, under penalty of perjury, declares not to be a party with any other business to an agreement to propose a fixed or uniform price in connection with this proposal.

The proposer declares under penalty of perjury that she/he is authorized to submit this proposal and bind the business or organization to the terms of this Proposal.

The proposer recognizes the right of the City of Santa Cruz to reject any or all proposals received and to waive any informality or minor defects in proposals received.

The proposer declares under penalty of perjury that the information contained in this Proposal and all accompanying documents are true and correct.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

4.2. Curatorial statement and vision for SculpTOUR*

*Response required

4.3. Resume/CV of curator or team *

*Response required

4.4. Examples of past relevant projects (images + descriptions) * No more than 3 (examples) or 4 pages, including photos, of projects will be reviewed.

*Response required

4.5. Proposed project approach and timeline *

*Response required

4.6. Fee proposal and Budget*

Proposers must complete and submit a Fee Proposal & Budget with their Proposal submittal by the

Proposal Submittal Due date. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to state all costs required to provide the services outlined in Section Preliminary Scope of Services.

Fee Proposal shall include what the Curator will charge for their services. The Budget will breakdown how much will be allocated to the artists and any other program fees. The total budget currently allocated is $42,500 for the three year term. Only one Call for Artists round is required in the first year with the second and third year as artists relations and gallery sales support. A Proposer’s failure to submit a Cost Proposal will deem the Proposal non-responsive.

*Response required

4.7. References (minimum 2) *

4.8. Non-Collusion Declaration*

By confirming, the proposer, the party making the foregoing proposal declares that the proposal is not made in the interest of, or on behalf of, any undisclosed person, partnership, company, association, organization, or corporation; that the proposal is genuine and not collusive or sham; that the Consultant has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other Consultant or Sub-Consultant to put in a false or sham proposal; and has not directly or indirectly colluded, conspired, connived, or agreed with any

Consultant, Sub-Consultant or anyone else to put in a sham proposal, or that anyone shall refrain from proposing; that the Consultant has not in any manner directly or indirectly, sought by agreement, communication, or conference with anyone to fix the proposal price of the Consultant or any other

Consultant or Sub-Consultant, or to fix any overhead, profit, or cost element of the proposal price, or of that of any other Consultant or Sub-Consultant, or to secure any advantage against the public body awarding the contract of anyone interested in the proposed contract; that all statements contained in the proposal are true; and, further, that the Consultant has not, directly or indirectly, submitted his or her proposal price or any breakdown thereof, or the contents thereof, or divulged information or data relative thereto, or paid, and will not pay, any fee to any corporation, partnership, company association, organization, proposal depository, or to any member or agent thereof to effectuate a collusive or sham proposal.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

4.9. LOCAL PREFERENCE CERTIFICATION

Local Businesses and Locally Owned Businesses must submit this certification with each bid or proposal in order to receive the 2% and additional 4% preference applied during the evaluation of any competitive process for goods, supplies, equipment, materials, services, or professional services.

Local Businesses

To qualify for the 2% local business preference, a business must meet the following criteria:

4.9.1. Does the business have an office with at least one employee located in the City of Santa Cruz?* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

When equals "Yes"

4.9.2. Business Address:*

4.9.3. Is the business current in the payment of all taxes, charges, assessments, or fees owed to the City of Santa Cruz? * ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

4.9.4. Does the business hold a valid City of Santa Cruz business license?* ☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

When equals "Yes"

4.9.5. DBA/license number:*

*Response required

4.9.6. Locally Owned Businesses

To qualify for an additional 4% locally owned business preference, a business must meet the above requirements for a local business and at least 50% of the business’ owners must live in the County of

Santa Cruz.

To qualify for the locally owned business preference, list all of the business’ owners and their county of residence.

• Owner Name, County

4.9.7. By submitting information for Local Preference, I represent that I qualify as a

(check all that apply):* ☐ Local Business

☐ Locally Owned Business

☐ None of the above

*Response required

4.9.8. I understand that by submitting false information or failing to disclose material information in order to qualify for the preference my business will be 1) required to pay the city any difference between the contract amount and what the city’s cost would have been if the contract had been properly awarded, and

2) prohibited from bidding on any city contract or receiving any city contract for a period of three years of the discovery of facts supporting the same.* ☐ Please confirm

*Response required

4.9.9. Acknowledgment of Addenda and Question and Answer*

In order to submit a proposal, the vendor acknowledges that they have read all addenda, and questions and answers posted for this solicitation.

☐ Please confirm

4.10. California Levine Act Disclosure Statement

As a party to a proceeding, you are required to comply with the following Levine Act Disclosure

Statement:

California Government Code Section 84308, commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits City

Officers (as defined below) from participating in any action concerning a license, permit, other entitlement for use, franchise, or contract (collectively “license, permit, or contract”) if they accept, solicit, or direct contribution(s) from a party, participant, and its agent(s), totaling more than $500 within the twelve (12) months prior to the proceeding, while a proceeding is pending, and for twelve

(12) months following the date of a final decision in a proceeding.

“City Officers” include any City elected or appointed officer, their alternates, and any candidate for elective office. “City Officers” are listed at the following sites:

• City Council and Mayor: cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council/councilmembers

• Candidates for elective City offices: cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/city-clerk/elections/candidates

• Board and Commissioners with certain decision-making powers:

cityofsantacruz.com/government/advisory-bodies, including:

o Arts Commission o Board of Building Appeals o Children’s Fund Oversight Committee o Downtown Commission o Historic Preservation Commission o Parks & Recreation Commission o Planning Commission o Sister Cities Committee o Transportation and Public Works Commission o Water Commission o Zoning Administrator

As a party to a proceeding, you are also required to provide the information below concerning your contributions to City Officers. This form is to be submitted to the City of Santa Cruz as soon as file://///ADS-66162-99/data$/Documents/BUSINESS/CITY/CITY%20COUNCIL/Conflict%20of%20Interest/SB%201439%20(Levine%20Act)/Disclosure%20Statement%20Forms/cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council/councilmembers file://///ADS-66162-99/data$/Documents/BUSINESS/CITY/CITY%20COUNCIL/Conflict%20of%20Interest/SB%201439%20(Levine%20Act)/Disclosure%20Statement%20Forms/cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/city-clerk/elections/candidates file://///ADS-66162-99/data$/Documents/BUSINESS/CITY/CITY%20COUNCIL/Conflict%20of%20Interest/SB%201439%20(Levine%20Act)/Disclosure%20Statement%20Forms/cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/city-clerk/elections/candidates file://///ADS-66162-99/data$/Documents/BUSINESS/CITY/CITY%20COUNCIL/Conflict%20of%20Interest/SB%201439%20(Levine%20Act)/Disclosure%20Statement%20Forms/cityofsantacruz.com/government/advisory-bodies practicable, but before the proceeding itself, and is a public record. If you have any questions about this form, please contact your City representative for assistance.

You must submit a supplemental form if you make any new reportable contribution(s) while the contract, license, permit, or other entitlement is being considered by the City of Santa Cruz.

Answering “YES” to any of the questions in this Section does not preclude the City of Santa Cruz from awarding a license, permit, or contract to you or your organization or taking any subsequent action related to said license, permit, or contract. It does, however, preclude any identified City Officers from participating in any actions related to this license, permit, or contract, unless the identified City

Officers return the contribution within 30 days of discovery. (Gov. Code § 84308(d); FPPC Reg.

18438.7.)

In determining whether a contribution has exceeded $500, the contributions of an agent shall not be aggregated with contributions from a party or participant. (Gov. Code § 84308(g).)

4.10.1. Have you or your organization, or any agent on behalf of you or your organization (except for uncompensated officers of a nonprofit organization), made any contributions totaling more than $500 to any City Officers (as defined above) in the 12 months preceding the date of the submission of your proposals or the anticipated date of any City Council, Board, or Commission action related to this license, permit, or contract?* Note that, with respect to elected officers, contributions only count if the elected officer or the body of which they are a member has authority to make a decision or recommendation in the proceeding.

☐ Yes

☐ No

*Response required

When equals "Yes"

4.10.2. If yes, please identify the City Officer(s) Name, Payee Name, Payment

Date, and Payment Amount in the field below.* *Response required

4.10.3. Do you or your organization, or any agent on behalf of you or your organization (except for uncompensated officers of a nonprofit organization), anticipate or plan to make any contribution totaling more than $500 to any

City Officers (as defined above) during or in the 12 months following any City

Council, Board, or Commission action related to this license, permit, or contract? * Note that, with respect to elected officers, contributions only count if the elected officer or the body of which they are a member has authority to make a decision or recommendation in the proceeding.

☐ Yes

☐ No

When equals "Yes"

4.10.4. If yes, please identify the City Officer(s) Name, Payee Name, Payment

Date, and Payment Amount in the field below.*

5. EVALUATION CRITERIA

5.1. Phase 1

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Curatorial Vision

Team General Information

This section must include the following:

A. Legal name, addresses, telephone numbers of the principal office and local office (if applicable).

B. Year established and history.

C. Business entity status (i.e., partnership, corporation, LLC).

D. Indicate if Proposer has defaulted in its performance of an agreement or project during the past five (5) years which has led the other party to terminate the agreement and if so, the identity of the parties involved and the circumstances of the default or termination.

E. Respond to the following:

1. Explain any pending litigation, liens, or claims involving your organization.

2. Has your company filed for bankruptcy in the last ten (10) years?

F. Provide information about your company regarding environmental conservation practices or objectives, Green Business certifications, alternative fuel service vehicles, superior employee benefit policies, or other applicable policies that align with Sub-Section Environmental

Conservation and Sustainable Living in Section Process Instructions.

Curator Statement

This section will include the team methodology to Curation of the SculpTOUR program:

The program seeks artworks that align with and advance the Curator’s overarching vision for a cohesive, thoughtful, and culturally resonant exhibition. Sculptural works will be

0-100 Points 20 (20% of Total) evaluated on their artistic merit, including conceptual clarity, originality, technical proficiency, and relevance to the curatorial framework established for the program. The

Curator will assess how each submission contributes to the intended narrative, thematic direction, and spatial experience of the exhibition, ensuring that selected works collectively enhance the aesthetic and cultural value of the public realm. Consideration will also be given to the artwork’s ability to engage diverse audiences, respond appropriately to site context, and uphold the professional standards expected within a curated public art environment.

2. Relevant Experience & Qualifications -

Proposer Qualifications and Sculpture-Specific

Experience

In this section, the Proposer shall provide detailed information demonstrating their capacity to successfully deliver services related to the management, curation, installation, and oversight of sculptural artworks in public settings. The following elements must be included:

• Describe the Proposer’s qualifications and experience working on similar, relevant, or related sculpture-based projects Provide a summary of past work involving public art exhibitions, outdoor sculpture installations, large-scale three-dimensional artworks, or other projects requiring specialized knowledge of sculpture handling, placement, conservation considerations, and site-specific evaluation.

Include examples that reflect the Proposer’s ability to assess sculptural integrity, manage installation logistics, and collaborate with artists, fabricators, and municipal partners.

• Describe how the Proposer is organized to provide the required sculpture-related services Explain the structure of the proposed team and how responsibilities will be allocated to ensure effective delivery of services outlined in the Preliminary Scope of Services. This should include the team’s capacity to evaluate sculptural proposals, coordinate installation and deinstallation, ensure compliance with safety and accessibility standards, and maintain curatorial consistency across multiple sites (4) in Downtown Santa Cruz.

• Describe the qualifications of any subconsultants and/or subcontractors If the

Proposer intends to utilize subconsultants or subcontractors—such as art handlers, rigging specialists, conservators, or equipment use— provide their qualifications and experience with sculpture installation, transportation, engineering review, or related public art projects. Demonstrate how their expertise supports the technical and curatorial requirements of the program.

0-100 Points 45 (45% of Total)

3. Project Approach & Feasibility

1. Understanding of Project Objectives A clear explanation of how the Proposer interprets the goals of the sculpture program, including alignment with the curatorial vision, public-space activation, and community engagement expectations.

2. Methodology for Sculpture Selection and

Curation A structured approach describing how the Proposer will review, evaluate, and recommend sculptural works; how curatorial criteria will be applied; and how artistic merit, site suitability, and theme will be assessed.

How will the artists be selected and what is the application platform.

3. Installation Planning and Technical

Feasibility An overview of the Proposer’s process for evaluating installation requirements, coordinating with artists and

City staff, assessing structural and safety considerations, and ensuring that each sculpture can be feasibly installed within the designated sites.

4. Project Management and Coordination A description of how the Proposer will manage timelines, communication, stakeholder coordination, and decision-making processes to ensure smooth project execution from selection through deinstallation. This also includes marketing of a gallery space to promote sales of artists sculpture installations during the display period.

5. Risk Management and Problem-Solving

Identification of potential challenges—such as site constraints, engineering needs, environmental exposure, or artist coordination—and the Proposer’s strategies for addressing them effectively. If possible, include an example of a previous installation with site challenges and how you worked with the site and artist for success.

6. Demonstration of Capacity to Deliver

Evidence that the Proposer’s approach is realistic, achievable, and supported by the necessary expertise, resources, and organizational structure to complete the project successfully and on schedule.

0-100 Points 15 (15% of Total)

4. Budget & Fee Proposal

The Budget & Fee Proposal should include:

• Detailed Fee Structure Provide a clear breakdown of all professional fees, including curatorial services, project management, coordination with artists, installation oversight, and any additional services required to support the SculpTOUR program.

• Itemized Cost Estimates Identify all anticipated expenses related to the handling, transportation, installation, and deinstallation of sculptures, as well as any subcontracted services such as art handling, rigging, engineering review, or equipment rental.

• Alignment With Program Requirements

Demonstrate how the proposed budget supports the program’s operational needs, including the City’s provision of sculpture insurance and the Curator’s role in ensuring safe, compliant, and feasible installations across designated public sites.

• Artists Payments Provide an estimate of the payment planned to provide to the four artists.

• Total Project Cost Present a consolidated total cost for all services, inclusive of fees and stipends for artists.

The Budget & Fee Proposal must be transparent, realistic, and reflective of the

Proposer’s capacity to deliver a high-quality, sculpture-focused public art program within the City’s established budget. If below or beyond the allocated budget, there must be a clear explanation for the cost estimate.

0-100 Points 20

5.2. Phase 2

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. References

In this section (maximum 2 pages), provide the following:

A. Two (2) Client References that provide former clients and representative projects undertaken in the last five (5) years which demonstrate relevant experience with the Project.

B. For each project identified above, provide a project description, project costs, dates of engagement, project owner, and member(s) of the proposed team for this RFP that participated in the project, including any subcontractors that worked on the project.

C. For each reference, provide the name of the agency/firm, and contact person’s name, title, address, phone number, and email address. Please ensure that the contact information is accurate for each reference.

The City reserves the right to:

• Check as many references that the

City deems necessary.

• Assess a Proposer’s past performance.

• Contact references that the City determines are representative projects demonstrating experience relevant to this RFP.

• Check any other reference(s) that might be indicated through the specified contacts or that result from communication with other entities involved with similar projects.

• Include other industry sources and users of similar services known to the

City.

0-100 Points 5

• Contact client references for only shortlisted Proposers.

It is the responsibility of the Proposer to ensure the client reference contact person is available and willing to provide a reference within the timeframe stated in this section. The client reference score/weight shall have no bearing on any other evaluation criteria.

2. Project Understanding, Work Plan and

Approach

Proposers invited for the interview and oral presentations are expected to have a clear understanding of Project goals and objectives, the scope of services, the Project and City background, and the Proposer’s role.

Proposers must present their Project understanding, work plan, and approach effectively for achieving the Scope of Services on time and within budget.

0-100 Points 10 (40% of Total)

3. Quality of Presentation

Proposers invited to participate in the interview and oral presentations will be evaluated on their ability to effectively communicate the project understanding, work plan and approach, and the qualifications of subcontractors and personnel. The presentations should be informative and concise.

0-100 Points 10 (40% of Total)

6. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

6.1. Insurance Requirements

Proposer will provide Certificate of Insurance(s) for Professional Liability, Commercial General Liability, Auto Liability, and Workers’ Compensation as stated in the City’s standard Terms and Conditions. The

City reserves the right to adjust the insurance terms provided based on the type and scope of project proposed by the Proposer.

6.2. Prevailing Wages and Labor Compliance

Prevailing Wages do not apply to this contract.

6.3. Living Wage

Proposers agree to comply with the requirements of the Living Wage Ordinance as provided in Santa

Cruz Municipal Code Chapter 5.10.

6.4. Agreement (Appendix A)

The successful Proposer will be required to enter into an Agreement in the form of the Agreement attached hereto as Appendix A. The City reserves the right to adjust the terms, including insurance terms provided, based on the type and scope of the project proposed by the Proposer. If a Proposer is unable to accept City’s proposed Agreement terms substantially in the form presented, the Proposer shall include a revised copy of the Agreement with its Proposal. The revised copy must clearly mark any section to which it objects, set forth the Proposer’s proposed alternative terms, and explain the basis for each proposed change. The City reserves all rights to reject any revisions to the Agreement.

If a satisfactory contract cannot be negotiated in a reasonable time, the City in its sole discretion may terminate negotiations.

6.5. Contract Period

The term of the contract will commence upon notification of award and continue for a period of 3 years plus any renewals agreed to by the parties and made in writing.

6.6. Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination

City’s policies promote a working environment free from abusive conduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; and require equal opportunity in employment for all regardless of race, religious creed

(including religious dress and grooming practices), color, national origin (including language use restrictions), ancestry, religion, disability (mental and physical), medical condition, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), physical characteristics, marital status, age, sexual orientation, genetic information (including family health history and genetic test results), organizational affiliation, and military or and veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by local, State or Federal law. City requires Consultant to be in compliance with all applicable Federal and State and local equal employment opportunity acts, laws, and regulations and Consultant is responsible for ensuring that effective policies and procedures concerning the prevention of abusive conduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation exist in Consultant’s business organization. The City’s current Equal

Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination policies to which this Section applies may be viewed at http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SantaCruz/?SantaCruz09/SantaCruz0983.html and http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SantaCruz/?SantaCruz09/SantaCruz0983.html http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showdocument?id=59192.

http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showdocument?id=59192. Copies are available upon request from the City’s Purchasing Division.

6.7. Indemnification

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Proposer agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the

City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers (collectively, “Indemnitees”) from and against any and all liability, claim, action, loss, injury, damage, judgment, or expense, including attorneys’ fees and costs (“Losses”) caused by or resulting from the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Proposer, Proposer’s officers, employees, agents, or subcontractors in any way related to this solicitation, including but not limited to Proposer’s Proposal. Proposer’s duty to indemnify and hold harmless Indemnitees shall not apply to the extent such Losses are caused by the sole or active negligence or willful misconduct of Indemnitees, as determined by an adjudicatory body or court of competent jurisdiction, if applicable. The obligation to defend shall arise regardless of any claim or assertion that Indemnitees caused or contributed to the Losses.

In the event this Agreement involves the performance of design professional services by Proposer, Proposer’s officers, employees, agents, or subcontractors, Proposer’s costs to defend Indemnitees shall not exceed the Proposer’s proportionate percentage of fault per Civil Code §2782.8. This section shall survive the termination or expiration of the Agreement.

http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showdocument?id=59192.

7. SELECTION PROCESS & AWARD PROTEST INSTRUCTIONS

7.1. Questions and Requests for Clarification and Addenda

Questions or concerns regarding any aspect of this RFP shall be sent via City’s e-Procurement Portal’s

Question & Answer feature and received by the date identified in Timeline in INTRODUCTION Section.

Any questions or objections not submitted within the time and manner stated above or to anyone other than the above-stated contact will be deemed waived. The City is not bound by the oral representation of any City employee or official. Answers to questions received will be sent out in the City's procurement portal.

The City may determine it is necessary to revise any part of this RFP. Revisions will be made by written addenda and it is the Proposer’s sole responsibility to comply with any addenda to this RFP. Addenda will be posted on the City’s e-Procurement Portal, https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401, under Bidding Information.

7.2. Proposal Evaluation Criteria

RFP responses will be evaluated and ranked according to the evaluation criteria identified in the sub-sections Responsiveness and Responsibility in GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PROPOSERS section, below, by an evaluation committee composed of City staff. The evaluation committee will open and review the proposals in confidence. Proposals will be available to the public after the contract award.

After the initial proposal evaluation, the City may determine that additional information is needed to establish the final ranking of proposers. The semi-finalists will be contacted and may be asked to:

• Conduct a scenario-based demonstration of the equipment or service,

• Revise the submitted proposal for the purpose of obtaining best and final offers, and/or

• Provide additional information to assist City in determining the best value proposer.

The Evaluation Committee will use all information collected to rank the semi-finalists in order of their ability to best meet the requirements of the City. The City will begin negotiating a firm contract with the highest ranked Proposer. If no agreement can be reached, negotiations will begin with the next ranked

Proposer.

7.3. Responsiveness

Responsiveness is determined in accordance with meeting the minimum requirements in Sub-Section

Responsive and Responsibility of Section GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PROPOSERS to be responsive

(the submittal includes all of the required documentation).

7.4. Responsibility

Responsiveness is determined in accordance with meeting the minimum requirements in Sub-Section

Responsive and Responsibility of Section GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PROPOSERS to be responsive

(the submittal includes all of the required documentation).

The total maximum score for the evaluation of proposals is 100 percent (100%). Proposals will be evaluated by the EC using the Proposal Evaluation Criteria as set forth in Section EVALUATION CRITERIA.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636326 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636333 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca/projects/273401/document?section=2636331

Proposals that are deemed responsive, from a Proposer that has been deemed responsible, will be evaluated based on the Evaluation Criteria below. Evaluation and scoring of proposals will be based on how likely the proposal content meets or exceeds the performance requirements of this RFP.

The City may conduct interviews and oral presentations with the highest scoring Proposers. The City reserves the right to waive the interview process and evaluate the Proposer based on the Proposal

Evaluation Criteria alone. Should interviews and oral presentations be conducted, proposals will be evaluated by the EC using the Interview and Oral Presentation Evaluation Criteria as set forth below.

Proposers will be responsible for all their expenses associated with the interview and oral presentation. The City reserves the right to conduct interviews and oral presentations with qualified contractors by web or teleconference.

7.5. Negotiations

Upon the City’s final ranking of proposals, the Proposers shall be prepared to enter negotiations to enter into the Contract. The City will first begin negotiations with the top-ranked Proposer(s). If the City and the top-ranked Proposer(s) do not reach an agreement, then the City may negotiate with the next highest-ranked Proposer. This process will continue until the City reaches an agreement with a

Proposer(s) or terminates the procurement. The City may begin negotiating with the next highest-ranked Proposer whenever the City determines that doing so is in its best interest, and the City may negotiate with more than one Proposer at the same time.

The failure of the highest-ranked Proposer to comply with any of the requirements of this section shall constitute grounds for the City to negotiate the agreement with the next top-ranked Proposer. Upon completion of successful negotiations, the City will issue a written Notice of Intent to Award (NOITA) letter to all Proposers which lists the “Successful Proposer” that the City recommends for award of an agreement.

7.6. Collusive or Sham Bids

No person, supplier, or corporation shall make or file or be interested in more than one bid for the same work, except so far as alternate bid may be called for. Nor shall any person, supplier, or corporation submit a collusive or sham bid, per se, directly or indirectly, to induce any other supplier to submit such a bid, or to refrain from responding, or seek in any way to fix the price, or any portion of the proposed price, in order to secure an advantage against the owner or any person interested in a proposed contract. However, a person, supplier, or corporation submitting a sub-bid to a proposer or quoting prices on materials for a bidder, is not hereby disqualified from submitting sub-bids or quoting prices to other bidders.

The proposer shall acknowledge that it has not directly or indirectly been collusive with any other proposer in the preparation and submission of the proposal by submitting the Non-Collusion

Declaration. If at any time it shall be found that the proposer to whom a contract has been awarded has, in presenting the proposal, colluded with any other party or parties, said proposer shall be liable to the City for all loss or damage which the City has or may suffer as the result of the collusive activity, including, but not limited to, the cost of advertising and awarding a new contract.

7.7. Public Record

Proposals received are the property of the City. All proposals, evaluation documents, and any subsequent contracts will be subject to public disclosure per the “California Public Records Act,” (CPRA)

California Government Code, sections 7920.000 – 7931.000. All documents related to this solicitation will become public records once discussions and negotiations with proposers have been fully completed and a Notice of Intent to Award (NOITA) letter to all Proposers is issued.

If Proposer’s proprietary information is contained in documents or information submitted to City, and

Proposer claims that such information falls within one or more CPRA exemptions, Proposer must clearly mark such information “Confidential and Proprietary,” and identify the specific lines containing the information.