LEASE OF PROPERTY FOR A PORTION OF 609 LAFAYETTE STREET a/k/a “THE WELCOME CNTR

The City of Cape May, located in Cape May County, New Jersey, is soliciting bids for Bid #24-03, which involves leasing approximately 320 square feet of excess space in the northeast corner of the Welcome Center located at 609 Lafayette Street. The procurement is specifically targeting businesses that provide goods and services to the public, with the leased space intended for use as an information and retail space. The initial lease term is one year, with an option to renew for four additional one-year terms, subject to City Council authorization. Bidders must submit a bid guarantee of 10% of the total bid amount, not exceeding $20,000, and proposals will be evaluated based on being the highest responsible bid. The bid opening is scheduled for February 28, 2024, at 10:30 A.M. via an electronic platform on BidNet Direct. Prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to inspect the property prior to submitting their proposals and must comply with various administrative requirements, including providing proof of business registration and equal employment opportunity documentation.

The contract opportunity does not specify specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must meet standard legal and administrative requirements, including providing ownership disclosure and investment activity certifications. The minimum annual rental rate for the first year is set at $10,000, with subsequent years subject to a 3% annual increase. The City reserves the right to reject any bids that do not meet the minimum rental requirements. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the lease is structured to allow potential flexibility for future renewal. The total potential contract value could range from $10,000 for the first year to approximately $51,000 over the potential five-year lease period, depending on successful renewals and annual increases. Interested businesses should carefully review the full bid packet and prepare comprehensive proposals that demonstrate their ability to effectively utilize the Welcome Center space.