Event Manager for The Boathouse at Canal Dock.

The City of New Haven is requesting Statements of Qualifications from individuals or event management companies to serve as Event Manager for The Boathouse at Canal Dock, with proposals due July 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Professional competence and experience are the sole evaluation factors; cost is explicitly excluded from the initial selection phase.

The Event Manager will function as an independent contractor under the direction of the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism and the Economic Development Administration. Responsibilities include event administration, coordination and record-keeping, logistics management for interior and exterior events, vendor coordination, on-site supervision, calendar management, and marketing of bookings. The position requires flexibility for evening and weekend work.

The maximum annual budget is $70,000, paid in equal monthly installments. The initial contract term runs August 1, 2026 through June 1, 2027, with two optional one-year renewal periods at the City's sole discretion. The contract is funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds; all expenditures must occur after March 3, 2021, and the City must expend all ARPA funds by December 31, 2026.

Evaluation criteria weight professional experience at 50 points (33.3%), Leadership and Interpersonal Skills at 20 points (13.3%), and Risk, Reliability & Compliance at 20 points (13.3%). Respondents must submit a Statement of Qualifications, resume, cover letter, three professional references, proposed operations plan, notarized Disclosure and Certification Affidavit, employee demographic information, Non-Collusion Affidavit, and Certificate of Non-Arrearage. Proof of insurance prior to award must include General Liability ($1 million per occurrence), Auto Liability ($1 million combined single limit), Workers' Compensation at statutory limits, and Professional Liability ($1 million); Abuse and Molestation coverage ($1 million minimum) is required if the Event Manager has direct contact with individuals under age 21. The City of New Haven Living Wage Ordinance applies. Questions are due July 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.