Strategic Planning Consultant RFP: Q&A
This set of questions summarizes questions received prior to the RFP submission deadline. This webpage will be updated until the submission deadline.
The Town does not yet have a budget range established. We anticipate that costs will be determined based upon services provided. For frame of reference the Municipal Planning Grants through ACCD range from $25,000 to $40,000. We anticipate a budget within that range but actual budget will be determined by the scope of services covered under the contract.
Not exactly. In 2013-14, Guilford participated in the Community Visit program of the Vermont Council on Rural Development.
The Planning Commission is charged with overseeing and managing the Town’s planning activities. The Selectboard, at the recommendation of the Planning Commission, will adopt the final plan. The Selectboard approves any expenditures (for planning and implementation).
Most Vermont towns collaborate with regional planning commissions and regional development corporations. In Guilford’s case, we work with the Windham Regional Commission.
Municipal employees will be invited to engage in all public meetings. We do not anticipate that special weight will be given to any single voice or group of voices.
Yes. All public meetings will be conducted according to Vermont Open Meeting Law.
For the purposes of this project, the Planning Commission seeks clarity on a set of shorter-term actions (well before 2030) that are also informed by the community’s sense of its longer-term interests.
The 2022-2030 Town Plan is aspirational and replete with multiple goals. The preferred outcome of the strategic planning process would be to clarify priorities that promote smart growth in the 10-20 year time frame
As can be seen in any community, Guilford has divisions that can manifest as lack of trust in Town leadership. The Selectboard and Planning Commission are committed to proceeding in a manner that respects all residents, is transparent and allows for all voices to be heard.
At this moment, we do not anticipate any ballot questions that would impact the planning process. Nor should this planning process work to develop ballot questions for March 2023.
The Guilford Selectboard is exploring the use of ARPA dollars for this project. We are not aware of specific requirements for such a use of ARPA funds.
None.
Not yet. The survey closes on Oct. 20, results may be available in early November.
The Town does not have social media accounts. We do make use of Front Porch Forum and a privately managed Facebook page.
3 – 5.
Preference will be given to proposals that include opportunities for in-person community meetings. Virtual meetings may be used for preparation and check-in meetings.
Proposals that seek to engage the community in person will win the day.
There may be a certain set of planning activities that can be accomplished from a distance, but not all.
Preference will be given to consultants or firms that demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for Guilford-centric engagement as well as Vermont statute and law.
The Guilford Selectboard has a policy of inclusion. While no points are accorded to specific groups, proposals are encouraged from all qualified consultants.
Yes. Preference will be given to qualified local or regional applicants.
Yes. Submit materials to help@guilfordvt.org. Subject line: Strategic Planning proposal submission
Five, please.