Independent Program Review Services

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality is requesting proposals for Independent Program Review Services with responses due September 1, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Central Time and questions due August 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. Three mandatory qualifications apply: current Oklahoma CPA licensure in good standing, documented professional experience auditing or evaluating federal and state grant-funded programs, and demonstrated capability to mobilize personnel within 30 to 45 calendar days of award.

The scope encompasses a comprehensive programmatic, financial, operational, and compliance review of designated programs administered in partnership with the Oklahoma Rural Water Association, including Rural Water Infrastructure Grants, Emerging Contaminants Small and Disadvantaged Communities, Long Range System Sustainability, Operator Certification Training, Training and Rate Analysis Studies Agreement, Lead Service Line Inventory, and Leak Detection Program. The engagement spans seven phases: Project Work Plan development, Entrance Conference, Fieldwork, Preliminary Findings, Draft Report, Final Report, and Executive Presentation. Services must be performed in accordance with Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards, applicable GAO guidance, federal grant requirements, and Oklahoma statutes. The proposed team should include an Engagement Partner, Audit Manager, Certified Public Accountant, and other qualified personnel, with Certified Internal Auditor credentials preferred.

The initial contract term is one year with two one-year renewal options at DEQ's discretion. Pricing must be submitted as firm-fixed price for all scope deliverables, with separately identified travel expenses, reimbursable expenses, administrative fees, third-party costs, and hourly rates by staff classification. Award will be based on best value using weighted evaluation criteria: Technical Approach (30%), Relevant Experience (25%), Qualifications of Project Team (20%), Past Performance and References (15%), and Cost (10%). Bid proposals must remain firm for a minimum of 120 days. Suppliers must certify independence from both DEQ and the Oklahoma Rural Water Association and disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.