RFP: Routine Utility Operations Support Services Request for Proposals

Cumberland County Public Utilities Department, North Carolina, is requesting proposals for routine utility operations support services under an RFP due October 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with written questions due by September 28, 2026. Services will be assigned by task order or work authorization with no minimum quantity guaranteed.

The scope encompasses water meter reading, utility project inspection, employee training in water and sewer line repair, fire hydrant installation and repair, utility plan review, and emergency or on-call support. The County anticipates one award but reserves the right to make multiple awards, award only specific service categories, or make no award.

Mandatory qualifications require at least one key staff member holding an active North Carolina A-Distribution water operator certification and another holding active Grade IV Collections (CS-4) certification, a minimum of 10 years of successful comparable public-utility experience, adequate staffing capacity, required licenses and safety certifications, and evidence of insurance meeting County requirements.

Pricing must be submitted on a fully burdened basis with separate identification of travel, vehicles, equipment, materials, parts, after-hours premiums, minimum call-outs, and reimbursables. Rate schedules are required for water meter reading (per read or hourly), utility inspection (hourly regular or after-hours), A-Distribution technical lead (hourly), Grade IV wastewater technical lead (hourly), repair trainer (hourly, half-day, or full-day), hydrant technician (hourly by crew), plan reviewer (hourly by classification), and emergency mobilization (call-out and premium). All costs must be inclusive with sales tax excluded.

The contract term runs from execution through June 30, 2027, with potential extension by mutual written agreement. The County may terminate with seven days' written notice if services are unsatisfactory or if the vendor completes all required work.

Evaluation uses a best overall value method with points allocated for comparable firm experience (20 points), personnel qualifications and availability (20 points), technical approach and quality control (25 points), training and knowledge transfer (10 points), responsiveness and emergency coverage (10 points), and cost and overall value (15 points). Proposals are accepted in person at 698 Ann Street or via email to Amy Hall (ahall@cumberlandcountync.gov).