Bond Counsel and Related Advisory Services

The Harlingen Waterworks System (HWWS), a component unit of the City of Harlingen located in Cameron County, Texas, is soliciting a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Bond Counsel and Related Advisory Services through solicitation number 23-024. The procurement seeks a qualified legal firm to provide comprehensive bond counsel services, with a specific focus on assistance with loans or loan forgiveness funding administered through the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). Key deliverables include preparing legal documents, attending meetings, maintaining liaison with financial advisors, providing legal opinions, and ensuring compliance with securities and tax laws. The evaluation process will assess proposals based on project team qualifications, experience, Texas Water Development Board financing expertise, understanding of client needs, and ability to meet deadlines, with a maximum score of 100 points. Proposals are due on September 8, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Purchasing Office located at 114 North "L" Street in Harlingen, Texas, with an anticipated contract award date of September 27, 2023.

The contract is subject to the Environmental Protection Agency's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program, which includes fair share goals for Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises. HWWS currently serves approximately 29,000 retail accounts and 85,000 residents, with an annual budget of $24 million and existing debt of $16,370,000 across three bond issues. The proposed Bond Counsel Agreement is structured for a five-year term, with fees and expenses to be paid directly from debt proceeds at closing. The selected firm must maintain general liability and professional malpractice insurance and have all work performed by or under the direct supervision of a Texas-licensed attorney partner or principal. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the contract anticipates potential additional debt issuance in 2023. The firm will be required to provide unqualified legal opinions on the validity, legality, and tax status of debt obligations, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.