Notice is hereby given that the City of Des Moines, Washington, will receive Qualifications for Strategic Planning and Facilitation Services by filing with the City Clerk's office.
Click here for the complete RFQ
Questions/Answers:
QUESTION: Does the city intend the strategic plan to align with the budget process and if so, are there any dates that need to be factored in to the strategic plan timing?
ANSWER: It does not have to align, but should rather inform the process. The priorities and strategic initiatives identified in the Strategic Plan should help guide the Council during the budget process. No specific dates to be aware of, but our fiscal year is Jan 1.
QUESTION: Does the City use a statistically valid platform to survey residents on a regular basis? If so, will we be able to obtain access to the data?
ANSWER: No, we have not done a survey in the past.
QUESTION: Would the City like to include staff feedback into the process of gathering information ahead of the retreat? If so, would the city prefer this be in the form of one-on-one interviews or a group interview?
ANSWER: Group interview for senior staff, and then some dedicated 1:1 time with the City Manager would be appropriate. This is a RFQ, not a RFP. Therefore we intend to develop the scope of work and exact work plan with the consultant once selected based on their qualifications.
QUESTION: Should we include a cost estimate for services in the proposal?
ANSWER: No, this is a RFQ not a RFP
QUESTION: What is the total budget for this engagement?
ANSWER: NA- will be negotiated with selected consultant. City anticipates cost of $40,000-$60,000.
QUESTION: Could you kindly provide insight into the estimated budget and timeline scope for the project?
ANSWER: Our budget is $40,000-$75,000—dependent on scope and level of public engagement. We will work with selected respondent to develop a scope and price. Timeline: Would like to get this kicked off mid-year, and ideally completed within 6ish months.
QUESTION: Additionally, if there are any key priorities or expectations the City has for this initiative (ie: design thinking, human centered facilitation, modular retreat), we would appreciate any details you can share!
ANSWER: Economic development/redevelopment, revenue generation and fiscal sustainability, general government service delivery excellence.