RFP 27-0012 Promotional Procedure Administration for The Columbus Department of Fire & Emergency

Columbus Consolidated Government's Finance Department Purchasing Division is soliciting proposals under RFP 27-0012 for promotional procedure administration services for the Columbus Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, with responses due December 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern through OpenBids. The City intends an annual, as-needed contract with a qualified firm to administer promotional procedures advancing personnel to sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and battalion chief. The procedure must comply with Columbus Code of Ordinances Part II, Chapter 11, Article II, Division 2.

Phase I is a written examination built on current job-task analysis. Phase II is a performance-based assessment that includes oral presentations, role-playing, incident command scenarios, in-basket tasks, and situational judgment evaluations. The vendor must also conduct a pump operator and driving test for sergeant candidates, coordinate two in-person orientation days covering all ranks, and furnish videotaped sequestered assessment center evaluations. Written scores are due within three business days of test completion, and final scores within three business days of assessment completion. Estimated candidates are 60–100 for sergeant, 20–30 for lieutenant, and 15–25 for captain, with the Department targeting assessment of 30+ candidates per rank plus ties.

The initial term is five years, with an option to renew for five additional years contingent on mutual agreement and funding appropriations. Pricing is fixed for the initial term, and any later escalation request is limited to five percent and requires documented justification. Vendors must price optional feedback reports per candidate, paid directly by candidates. Required coverage includes $1 million each in General Liability (CSL), Errors and Omissions, Automobile Liability, Umbrella/Excess Liability, and Professional Liability, plus statutory Workers' Compensation, with the City named as additional insured. Vendors must submit a notarized E-Verify Affidavit and a notarized Conflict of Interest Affidavit.

Evaluation weights are Qualifications and Experience at 50%, Service Plan at 25%, Client Work History at 20%, and Cost Proposal at 5%. A selection committee scores proposals, and the award recommendation goes to Columbus City Council for final approval. Vendors must provide at least five client references for similar services delivered within the last five years. The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.