Government Relations Services

Houston City College's Procurement Operations Department is requesting qualifications for government relations services under RFQ 26-20, with statements of qualifications due June 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. local time. The Texas Professional Services Procurement Act governs the procurement; pricing is deferred until after HCC ranks firms on qualifications and demonstrated competence.

Minimum qualifications require five years of experience providing government relations or related professional services, demonstrated experience working with Texas legislative and governmental environments, and key personnel with experience in legislative affairs or policy advisory services. The scope encompasses legislative monitoring and analysis at local, state, and federal levels; development of legislative strategies and policy recommendations; identification of funding opportunities; attendance at legislative sessions and governmental meetings; and preparation of periodic activity reports and strategic recommendations.

The anticipated contract term is three years with options to renew for two additional one-year terms. HCC reserves the right to extend on a month-to-month basis not to exceed three months upon expiration of initial and renewal terms. Upon selection, HCC will negotiate hourly rate schedules by job classification with the selected firm or firms; HCC reserves the right to award to one or more vendors.

An Evaluation Committee will score submittals on firm qualifications and experience (30 points), proposed approach and methodology (30 points), past performance and references (35 points), and small business practices (5 points). The Small Business Development Program applies to contracts over $50,000, requiring contractors to make good faith efforts to subcontract with certified small businesses.

Written questions are due June 15, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. local time, with responses estimated for June 18, 2026. All submissions must be made electronically through the Bonfire portal. Anticipated Board recommendation and approval is in August 2026. All respondents must submit required forms, including notarized documents, conflict of interest questionnaires, and W-9 forms.