PRF76: Technical Assistance for Seasonal Communities

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities is requesting quotes for technical assistance to Seasonal Communities across designated regions, with responses due October 30, 2026, and contract award estimated for November 12, 2026.

Bidders must register on the Massachusetts Statewide Contract PRF 76 (Management Consultants, Program Coordinators and Planners Services, Category 6) and submit via COMMBUYS. Bids from certified small businesses are highly desired if contract spend is under $250,000.

The scope encompasses implementation-oriented technical assistance to municipalities in Berkshire County, Barnstable County/Cape Cod, Dukes and Nantucket Counties/the Islands, Franklin County, and Essex County (Hawley, Monroe, Rockport). Services include start-up planning, community needs assessment, outreach and public engagement, technical assistance on zoning implementation, housing trusts, workforce and artist housing strategies, housing needs assessments, property tax tools, and grant funding navigation, referrals to specialized resources, and regular feedback to HLC. The contract requires regular in-person field presence with remote support capability.

The estimated budget is $175,000 for the full contract term through September 30, 2029, structured as fixed-price compensation. Travel reimbursement is allowed at approved state rates. The contract begins November 1, 2026, with an initial term through June 30, 2027, renewable by mutual agreement. Funding is contingent upon legislative or federal appropriation. HLC reserves the right to terminate without cause or penalty upon written notice.

Bidders must demonstrate at least five years of experience in Massachusetts land use, zoning, municipal planning, or community development; knowledge of Massachusetts land use law and municipal zoning; experience with community planning and stakeholder engagement; capacity for in-person field services including ferry travel and evening meetings; and strong project management skills. Local knowledge of the Berkshires and Cape Cod/Islands is preferred. Evaluation criteria include approach and responsiveness, relevant experience and qualifications, capacity and ability to deliver, quality and value of services, and cost—with lowest cost not necessarily selected. Apparent successful bidder(s) will be posted by November 5, 2026.