Fiber Enterprise Strategy & Pro Forma

The City of Palo Alto Utilities is soliciting proposals under solicitation number IRFP199425 for professional consulting services to develop an updateable Fiber Enterprise Pro Forma and a comprehensive decision-support analysis. The objective is to evaluate the financial sustainability and strategic direction of the City's fiber enterprise, encompassing existing dark fiber services, backbone investments, internal City use, and residential fiber internet services. The selected consultant will create a transparent, staff-maintainable financial model to support scenario analysis and provide recommendations on the timing, scale, and operating approach for future fiber expansion phases and service offerings. Key deliverables include a complete model handoff package with validation testing, a final written summary of findings, and knowledge transfer sessions for City staff. The procurement process utilizes a points-based evaluation system focusing on the proposed solution (20%), consultant experience in municipal utilities and broadband planning (20%), cost (15%), and overall proposal quality (10%). Proposers must submit a technical proposal, a separate cost proposal as a fixed-fee or not-to-exceed fee by task, and evidence of financial stability via the OpenGov portal by October 30, 2026. The contract requires adherence to the City's Environmental Purchasing Policy, ADA compliance, and specific insurance and cybersecurity requirements. Performance is managed by the City's Project Manager, and the consultant must provide an initial work plan within ten business days of the Notice to Proceed.