RFP for Fire Communications and Dispatch Services

Northumberland County is soliciting proposals for Fire Communications and Dispatch Services to support seven participating fire departments. The contract is intended for an initial five-year term with two optional five-year extensions, with an anticipated execution date of December 1, 2026. The scope of work includes comprehensive call management, operational support, and the provision of technical infrastructure such as Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) and records management systems. Proponents must demonstrate the ability to maintain strict service level standards for call answer and dispatch times while ensuring operational interoperability across all member municipalities. The evaluation process consists of four stages, including a review of mandatory requirements and a presentation stage. Awarding is based on a 100-point scale, focusing on service delivery and operational capability, technology and systems integration, and presentation performance. Successful proponents must meet rigorous security and insurance requirements, including a 5 million dollar commercial general liability limit, 2 million dollar professional liability and auto coverage, and compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Additionally, all data and metadata must reside within Canada, and vendors must provide evidence of security certifications such as SOC 2 or ISO 27001. Proposals must be submitted electronically by October 22, 2026, with pricing kept separate from the technical submission.