Request for Proposals (RFP) - Animal Shelter Operations

Lewis County has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for animal shelter operations services, seeking to outsource its current in-house animal sheltering functions to a qualified external organization. The procurement opportunity requires a comprehensive service provider capable of managing animal sheltering, including intake, care, medical treatment, behavioral assessment, adoption services, and humane euthanasia protocols. Proposers must demonstrate operational capacity through detailed submissions that showcase staffing qualifications, facility capabilities, and extensive experience managing similar-sized animal shelters. The RFP establishes specific evaluation criteria focusing on organizational experience, financial stability, animal care standards, staffing expertise, and community engagement capabilities. Key dates for this procurement include a posting date of December 23, 2025, with proposal submissions due by February 2, 2026. Interested bidders are required to submit comprehensive proposals that include operational plans, budget projections, staffing structures, and potential facility improvement strategies. The county will evaluate proposals based on technical competence, fiscal responsibility, references, and alignment with county animal welfare policies and state regulations.

While the RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, it implies a preference for experienced animal welfare organizations with demonstrated operational capabilities. The procurement appears open to various organizational structures, including non-profits, private contractors, and specialized animal management firms. No incumbent vendor information is provided in the available documentation, and specific infrastructure or technology integration requirements are not detailed. Although a precise award value is not specified, the comprehensive nature of the services suggests a significant annual contract value commensurate with full animal shelter operations. Proposers should be prepared to provide a comprehensive service fee structure or annual contract amount that reflects the full scope of animal sheltering services, including staffing, facility maintenance, animal care, medical treatment, and adoption programming. The contract appears designed to select the most qualified and cost-effective proposer who can meet Lewis County's specific animal welfare service requirements and performance standards.