Financial Consulting Services for Grant Funds

The City of Tucson, located in Pima County, Arizona, is seeking independent financial consulting firms to establish a Qualified Vendor List (QVL) for Financial Consulting Services related to grant funds, specifically focusing on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 fund management. The procurement is an open and continuous RFP (No. 222937) running from December 7, 2021, through December 31, 2025, with quarterly review periods. Consultants will be responsible for supporting ARPA grant fund recipients by providing accounting support, including expenditure and revenue tracking, financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and federal standards, and ensuring overall grant lifecycle compliance. Preferred qualifications include a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, though this is not mandatory. Proposers must submit hourly rates for various staff levels and demonstrate expertise in evaluating project eligibility, conducting risk assessments, and supporting the City's Community Partnership Grant Program. The Evaluation Committee will score proposals, with those receiving 80 or higher recommended for contract award, and the City reserves the right to make multiple awards to ensure adequate contract coverage.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations, indicating that licensed Arizona financial consulting firms can participate. While no incumbent vendors are listed, the contract will be open through December 31, 2026, allowing for multiple vendors to be selected. The City intends to negotiate specific scope and pricing for individual engagements as needed, suggesting flexibility in contract implementation. Proposers must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, codes, and laws, and will be expected to serve as subject matter experts for State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). Although a specific budget range is not provided, the comprehensive nature of the required services and the ongoing ARPA fund management suggest a potentially significant opportunity for selected consulting firms. Vendors must submit a signed copy of the amendment acknowledging the expanded service requirements when responding to the proposal.