Strategic Plan for Developing the City

The City of Harvard, Illinois is requesting proposals for development of a comprehensive strategic plan under RFP 2026-101, with proposals due September 7, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

The scope encompasses evaluation of the current strategic plan and operating environment; facilitation of stakeholder engagement through conference calls, meetings, focus groups, surveys, and interviews; and delivery of a final plan document articulating mission, vision, and values; establishing prioritized four-year goals and objectives; detailing implementation strategies with timelines and benchmarks; and providing a framework for monitoring and re-evaluation. The City of Harvard (population approximately 9,469, McHenry County) seeks to replace its current 2024 amended plan, which expires in 2026.

The City Council will review proposals and make an award determination on September 22, 2026, with an anticipated project start in October 2026. Evaluation will be weighted as follows: Project Approach (45 percent), Experience, Qualifications, and Key Personnel (45 percent), and Cost (10 percent). The City reserves the right to conduct virtual interviews with up to three firms based on initial proposal evaluations and may reject any or all proposals.

Proposers must provide evidence of necessary facilities, ability, and resources and maintain comprehensive insurance throughout contract performance: Commercial General Liability of $1 million per occurrence, Professional Liability of $2 million per wrongful act, Automobile Liability of $1 million, and Workers' Compensation as required by Illinois law. Required submittals include a cover letter, executive summary of project approach, company overview with organizational chart and key personnel resumes, a minimum of three similar project references from the last five years, a detailed cost sheet and timeline, and a signed submittal agreement affirming compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, prevailing wage requirements, and conflict-of-interest provisions. Proposals must remain valid for 60 days from the due date. Questions should be directed to Debi Bejot at bejot@cityofharvard.org; final proposals should be submitted to Deputy Clerk Jannette Nunez at nunez@cityofharvard.org or by mail to City of Harvard, PO Box 310, Harvard, IL 60033.