Utility Rate and Connection Fee Study

The City of Edinburg Utilities Department is seeking qualified consultants to conduct a comprehensive Utility Rate and Connection Fee Study for its water and sewer systems through RFP #2023-015. The procurement is focused on evaluating the city's existing water and sewer fund, budgets, capital improvement plans, financing plans, current usage data, and future growth demands. The study will cover a ten-year projection period and requires a detailed analysis of historical revenues, operating expenses, water production costs, and comparison of existing rates with nearby cities. Proposals are due by August 1, 2023, at 3:00 pm, with a pre-proposal meeting scheduled for July 18, 2023. The evaluation process will use a 100-point system, with 50 points allocated to pricing, 20 points to experience, 10 points to reference letters, 10 points to past performance, 5 points to years in business, and 5 points to team resumes. The final deliverable will be a comprehensive report submitted as seven hard copies and one electronic PDF, to be presented to the City Council and relevant committees.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Proposers must comply with Texas legislative requirements, including House Bill 89 (regarding Israel), Senate Bill 13 (energy company boycotts), and Senate Bill 19 (firearm entities discrimination). While a specific budget range is not disclosed, the contract will be for a six-month term or until services are completed, as outlined in the sample agreement. The selected consultant will be required to maintain professional liability insurance and other standard coverage, with the City of Edinburg listed as an additional insured. Payment terms are net thirty (30) days from invoice receipt, subject to annual appropriation and fund availability. The contract will include comprehensive provisions for dispute resolution, with mandatory venue in Hidalgo County, Texas, for any legal proceedings.