Water Cost of Service, Connection Fee, and Water Rate Study

Muskegon County is seeking a professional consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive Water Cost of Service, Connection Fee, and Water Rate Study for its Public Works Department, specifically targeting the Northside and Eastside Water Systems. The Request for Proposal (RFP) requires a detailed five-year financial plan that evaluates existing water rate structures for regulatory compliance, assesses ready-to-serve fees, reviews connection charge methodologies, and recommends at least three potential rate structures. The project aims to analyze water consumption data, system infrastructure, and future projections for the regional water system that currently serves approximately 5,065 customers. Proposals must include the firm's project approach, experience of the firm and assigned individuals, and a separate sealed cost proposal. Key dates include a questions deadline of April 29, 2025, question responses by May 2, 2025, and proposal submissions due on May 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The project timeline anticipates beginning on June 6, 2025, with completion by July 25, 2025, and a final presentation to the Water Policy Board on August 6, 2025. Proposal evaluation will be based on responsiveness, understanding of scope, knowledge of Michigan laws and accounting practices, references, and total project costs.

The RFP does not specify any specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. While no explicit budget range is mentioned in the documents, the comprehensive nature of the study suggests a significant professional services engagement. The proposal must remain valid for a minimum of 90 days, and all pricing information must be complete, including associated taxes, surcharges, and fees. The county reserves the right to select the proposal that best meets their requirements and serves the best interests of the water system and Muskegon County. The attached documents include a blank W-9 form, which indicates that the selected vendor will need to provide standard tax identification information. The study will cover two distinct water distribution systems, implying potential complexity in data analysis and rate structure recommendations. Given the technical and financial nature of the project, respondents should demonstrate expertise in municipal water infrastructure financial planning, rate design, and regulatory compliance.