Healthcare Benefits Broker/Consultant Services

The contract involves providing broker and consulting services to assist the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) in acquiring healthcare benefits. The scope emphasizes strategic planning, vendor management, and plan negotiations, with an overarching goal of achieving a 35% participation of small businesses in the procurement process. The procurement process is structured as a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued on November 4, 2025, with proposals due by December 3, 2025. The anticipated contract size ranges from $500,000 to $2,000,000 over a five-year period, including options for extensions and additional on-demand services. Proposals must be submitted both electronically via METRO’s Bonfire portal and as hard copies, with detailed instructions on formatting and submission deadlines. The evaluation process assigns points based on price (40%), project management approach (30%), firm qualifications (15%), key personnel experience (10%), and small business participation (1-5 points). METRO emphasizes a best-value award approach, balancing technical merit and cost, with no strict requirement to select the lowest bid. The contract clauses highlight compliance with federal and state laws, including HIPAA, and impose strict requirements for key personnel, confidentiality, and subcontracting, especially regarding small business goals. The contract also includes provisions for quality inspection, acceptance criteria, and detailed representations and certifications related to debarment, lobbying, and socioeconomic status. While specific packaging, marking, and detailed line-item pricing data are not provided, the document specifies the need for detailed proposals aligned with the scope of services, emphasizing transparency, compliance, and small business engagement throughout the procurement process.