Small Water System Financial and Managerial Training

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) Center for Drinking Water Quality (CDWQ) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide customized training on financial and managerial topics to small public water systems in the state. The primary objective of this procurement is to deliver comprehensive training and conduct needs assessments for these water systems, focusing on improving their financial and managerial capabilities. Key deliverables will likely include specialized training modules, individual system assessments, and actionable recommendations to enhance operational effectiveness. The Request for Proposals (RFP) requires vendors to submit detailed technical proposals demonstrating their expertise in water system management and training methodologies. Evaluation criteria will encompass technical merit, proposed cost structure, and the vendor's proposed utilization of minority, women, and disability-owned businesses. The procurement timeline includes a vendor Q&A period from April 13 to April 21, 2023, with proposals due by May 11, 2023, at 3:00 PM GMT. The initial contract period will commence approximately January 1, 2024, for 12 months, with potential renewals for up to four additional 12-month periods contingent on vendor performance and funding availability.

The RIDOH strongly encourages participation from Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Disability Business Enterprises (DisBEs), collectively referred to as Issuance Small Business Enterprises (ISBEs). Vendors will receive evaluation points based on their proposed ISBE utilization rates, creating additional incentives for diverse business participation. The procurement requires vendors to register in the Ocean State Procures system and maintain specific insurance coverages, including $1 million in liability insurance, $100,000 in workers compensation, $1 million in automobile liability, and $2 million in professional liability. While the exact total contract value is not disclosed, the funding will be contingent on the availability of appropriated funds. Vendors must submit separate technical, cost, and ISBE participation proposals, with the lowest-cost proposal receiving the maximum available points, and other proposals scored proportionally. The state reserves the right to award the contract to a single prime vendor or multiple vendors, depending on the proposals received and the state's discretion.