RFP 26-002 Special Magistrate Services

The City of Ocoee, Florida is soliciting sealed proposals through RFP #26-002 for Special Magistrate services, seeking a licensed Florida attorney to serve as a violations hearing special magistrate. The selected professional will be responsible for hearing and adjudicating notices of City Code violations, including red light camera violations, school zone speed enforcement camera infractions, and code enforcement matters. Proposers must be members in good standing with the Florida Bar and possess the legal qualifications to personally conduct hearings, prepare written orders, and report findings. The evaluation committee will score proposals based on four primary criteria: professional qualifications (40 points), availability (20 points), understanding of services (30 points), and price proposal (10 points). The contract will be an initial one-year term with potential for four one-year renewals, extending the maximum contract period to five years. Proposals are due on November 18, 2025, and must be submitted electronically through the Bonfire e-procurement platform. The City will provide hearing locations and administrative support, while the Special Magistrate will be responsible for personal overhead expenses.

The procurement appears open to all qualified attorneys without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. The contractor must provide both General Liability and Professional Liability Insurance, with the City named as an additional insured. While specific compensation details will be negotiated in the final contract, the Special Magistrate will be compensated on an hourly rate basis. Proposers are required to complete multiple forms and certifications, including a drug-free workplace certification, conflict of interest disclosure, and various affidavits regarding scrutinized companies, human trafficking, and employment eligibility. The solicitation does not mention incumbent vendors or specify a precise budget range, though the hourly rate compensation structure suggests flexibility in contract value. The selected Special Magistrate will work directly with the City of Ocoee's administrative systems and must be prepared to integrate seamlessly with existing municipal hearing and code enforcement processes.