Bond Counsel

Muskegon County is seeking a qualified law firm to serve as Bond Counsel for debt financing through a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued on April 5, 2024, with proposals due on April 23, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The selected firm will provide comprehensive bond counsel services for a five-year contract period, anticipated to begin around June 1, 2024. Key responsibilities include acting as issuer's disclosure counsel, preparing official statements, assisting in bond issue planning and structuring, working with the county's financial advisor, obtaining governmental approvals, rendering legal opinions, and attending county commission meetings. Proposers must demonstrate expertise in tax matters, federal securities regulations, and local government debt financing. The evaluation will require submission of detailed documentation including references, team qualifications, insurance certificates, and professional capabilities. Respondents must provide a comprehensive pricing structure, including a base fee, fee per $1,000 of par value, and fee structures for different types of bond issues.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Muskegon County operates with a $303 million budget and maintains an AA rating from Standard and Poor's, indicating a stable financial environment for potential contractors. The county historically issues approximately $12 million in delinquent tax anticipation notes annually and averages one additional bond issue per year, suggesting a consistent need for bond counsel services. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, respondents will be expected to provide competitive pricing proposals that reflect the scope of services. The W-9 form included with the RFP indicates that the selected vendor will need to provide standard tax identification information for payment and reporting purposes. Potential bidders should be prepared to demonstrate substantial experience in municipal bond counsel work, with a track record of successful debt financing for local government entities.