Redevelopment/Land Use Counsel Services

The City of Newark, New Jersey is seeking Redevelopment/Land Use Counsel Services through an electronic Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for its Law Department. The procurement is targeting legal firms to provide specialized legal representation in redevelopment and land use matters on an as-needed basis for a one-year contract period from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Counsel will be responsible for comprehensive legal services including preparing pleadings, motions, discovery documents, participating in depositions, settlement conferences, and trials, with a requirement to provide quarterly Key Performance Indicator (KPI) metrics. The evaluation criteria will include factors such as experience and reputation, knowledge of the Law Department, availability, relevant legal experience, government experience, local presence, utilization of local contractors, and commitment to diversity. Electronic submissions will be accepted until 10:15 am on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, through the City's e-Procurement Portal, with strict instructions that no submissions will be accepted after the deadline.

The RFQ does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises, though the evaluation criteria suggest a preference for local contractors and diversity commitments. The compensation structure is set at a blended hourly rate of $175.00, which includes overhead and secretarial costs, with potential additional expenses for copying, travel, postage, and delivery charges to be negotiated separately. Respondents must provide comprehensive documentation including business registration, insurance certificates, and various disclosure forms, demonstrating experience in state and federal courts in New Jersey. The City of Newark reserves the right to modify, amend, suspend, or terminate the procurement process at its sole discretion, with no liability to respondents for incurred costs. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the hourly rate and one-year contract term suggest potential flexibility in total contract value based on actual legal services rendered.