Consulting Services for Non-Ad Valorem Special Assessment for Fire Protection and Rescue Services

The City of St. Petersburg is seeking a qualified consulting firm under RFP-26-305 to design, develop, and implement a Non-Ad Valorem Special Assessment Program for fire protection and rescue services. The project aims to establish a legally defensible methodology for funding fire services, ensuring compliance with Florida statutes and case law. The selected consultant will be responsible for conducting a baseline analysis, developing at least two distinct allocation models based on demand and readiness to serve, creating a five-year financial model with revenue projections, and delivering the final certified tax roll to the Pinellas County Tax Collector. The project must be implemented in time for the January 2028 tax rolls, with a target completion date of April or May 2028. The contract features an initial three-year term, with the first year dedicated to program development and the subsequent two years providing administrative support. The City may either renew the agreement for two additional one-year periods or terminate it based on the terms of the Base Professional Services Agreement. Evaluation of proposals is weighted heavily on the firm's qualifications and experience (45%) and the proposed project approach (30%), followed by cost analysis (15%) and commitment to small and minority-owned business outreach (10%). Award is based on the most qualified vendor. Required insurance includes one million dollars per occurrence for general liability and one million dollars for automobile liability. Invoicing is conducted monthly, with payments issued within twenty business days of receipt.