Land use consultant for comprehensive zoning regulations update

The Town of Manchester, located in Hartford County, Connecticut, is seeking a qualified land use consultant to conduct a comprehensive review and update of the town's Zoning Regulations and Zoning Map. The project aims to modernize the existing zoning framework by implementing recommendations from the 2023 Manchester NEXT Plan of Conservation and Development. Qualified candidates must demonstrate extensive experience in municipal planning and zoning, with specific expertise in writing and updating zoning regulations for Connecticut communities. The consultant will be required to update the Zoning Map using programs compatible with the Town's GIS system and engage in approximately five working sessions with a steering committee, at least two sessions with the Planning & Zoning Commission, two public information sessions, and one public hearing for adoption. Evaluation criteria for the project include five equally weighted 20-point categories: background and experience, understanding and approach, quality of work, special qualifications, and cost. The Request for Proposal (#23/24-49) was released on December 12, 2023, with a deadline for questions on February 1, 2024, and a proposal response deadline of February 7, 2024, at 11:00 am. The anticipated project duration is between one and two years.

The procurement opportunity requires proposing firms to provide detailed submissions including firm description, related experience, organization and staffing, project approach, and litigation history. Respondents must carry professional liability insurance of at least $1 million and complete a Living Wage Certification Form, which requires compliance with the Manchester Living Wage Ordinance for covered employers. Exemptions to the living wage requirements exist for nonprofits, organizations with fewer than 25 eligible employees, and contracts valued under $25,000. The project involves updating land use regulations to improve online accessibility, ensure consistency with state laws, create illustrative graphics, and incorporate best management practices aligned with community values and development pressures. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a significant investment in professional consulting services. The town will evaluate proposals based on their overall benefit to the community, emphasizing quality and strategic alignment over solely cost-based considerations.