Public Art Consultant

The City of Fort Myers is seeking a Public Art Consultant through a Request for Proposals (RFP 0070-24) to develop, plan, and implement public art projects, initiatives, programs, and events under the direction of the Public Art Committee and assigned Department Director. The consultant will be responsible for overseeing public art project development, serving as a liaison with the Public Art Committee, coordinating meetings, developing strategic plans, engaging stakeholders, managing artist selection and project implementation, and maintaining public art assets. Evaluation criteria will be comprehensive, with 41.7% focused on experience and past work history, 25% on understanding and approach to meeting the Art Committee's needs, and additional points for minority business enterprise participation and local vendor preference. Minimum qualifications include holding necessary Florida business licenses, being in business for at least three consecutive years, and having no outstanding debts or contract defaults with the City. The proposal deadline is October 4, 2024, with the City reserving the right to award the contract to one or more respondents and potentially conduct short-listing, oral presentations, and background investigations.

The procurement opportunity includes several set-aside and participation goals, notably a 15% Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation target established by Resolution 38-125. Contractors must complete extensive documentation demonstrating good faith efforts in obtaining minority business participation, including detailed records of outreach, communication, and engagement with MBE firms. Additional federal requirements include compliance with Build America, Buy America (BABA) provisions, which mandate the use of iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials produced in the United States. The contract also requires compliance with human trafficking prevention statutes, with contractors required to submit an affidavit attesting they do not use coerced labor. Local preference points are available for businesses with offices in Fort Myers (5 points) or Lee County (3 points). While no specific contract value is listed, the City will negotiate compensation based on the respondent's submittal and financial investment, with potential for a multi-year engagement contingent on performance and strategic alignment with the Public Art Committee's objectives.