HomeMy WebLinkAboutBig Sky Trust Fund Category II Planning Project Grant Application_9Commission Memorandum
REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission
FROM: David Fine, Economic Development Specialist Brit Fontenot, Economic Development Director
SUBJECT: Ratify the City Manager’s signature on a Big Sky Trust Fund (BSTF)
Category II Planning Project grant application.
MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014
AGENDA ITEM TYPE: Consent
RECOMMENDATION: Ratify the City Manager’s signature on a Big Sky Trust Fund (BSTF) Category II Planning
Project grant application for the purpose of partially finding the Bozeman Broadband Master
Plan.
BACKGROUND:
This BSTF Planning Project grant, if awarded, will partially fund a comprehensive broadband
master plan for a community fiber optic network. The Economic Development Department is
seeking technical assistance in its effort to increase access to affordable, high-speed, fiber optic delivered broadband services throughout the City. We are soliciting proposals assessing the feasibility of various courses of action, including fiscally sustainable business models, broadband
infrastructure construction planning, and broadband facilitation strategies, based on an
assessment of community needs and involving community stakeholders.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES: None at this time.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested by the City Commission.
FISCAL EFFECTS: BSTF planning grants require a 1:1 match. The estimated total cost of the broadband master plan is $90,000. The match for the BSTF grant will be made from a potential $45,000 Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant or from funds raised from the
stakeholder group. Staff expects that total project funding will be achieved in the following
manner. We are requesting $45,000 from EDA, which we anticipate will be matched by $25,000
from Big Sky Trust Fund, Montana Department of Commerce. The remaining $20,000 match will be raised from our stakeholders. Stakeholders include the City of Bozeman, Bozeman School District #7, Downtown Bozeman Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District, Bozeman
Deaconess Hospital, Northwestern Energy, and the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce. In the
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Commission Memorandum
event that BSTF funds cannot be secured, additional funds will be sought from the stakeholder
group to fund any deficit in the required match. At this time, $55,000 in potential matching funds
has been committed to this project by the stakeholder group.
Attachments: Big Sky Trust Fund grant application
Report compiled on: March 27, 2014
141
Application
11199 - DOC - Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund (BSTF) - Category II - Planning Projects - FY14
16429 - Master Plan for a Community Fiber Optic Network
DOC BRD BSTF
Status:Editing
Submitted Date:
Primary Contact
Name:*Mr. Stuart Leidner
Salutation First Name Middle Name Last Name
Title:
Email: sleidner@prosperabusinessnetwork.org
Alternate Email
Address: 2015 Charlotte St Ste 1
*Bozeman Montana 59718-2719
City State/Province Postal Code/Zip
Phone:*
406-587-3113
Phone
###-###-#### Ext.
Alternate Phone
Fax:
Organization Information
Name: Prospera Business Network, and ABN for Gallatin
Development Corporation
Organization Type: Non-Profit Organization
Organization Website: www.prosperabusinessnetwork.org
Address: 2015 Charlotte St Ste 1
142
*Bozeman Montana 59718-2719
City State/Province Postal Code/Zip
Phone: 406-587-3113
Ext.
Alternate Phone
Fax:
Email address
Alternate Email
Applicant Information -- Eligible Applicant Information
Eligible Applicant
Eligible applicants are CRDC, Tribal Governments and approved EDO, which are located in a county that is not part of a CRDC region and
meet program eligibility requirements. The organization that is preparing the application must match the organization that is selected
below. If the organizations do not match, please withdraw the application and contact the BSTF Program.
From the dropdown list, please identify the CRDC, Tribe or EDO. Prospera Businesss Network
If your name does not appear on the list and you believe that you meet the program eligibility requirements, please contact the BSTF Program.
Federal Tax ID Number 81-0435350
Use xx-xxxxxxx format only.
Daily Contact Person
Name*Stuart Leidner
First Name Last Name
Executive Director
Title
Phone Number 406-587-3113
Use xxx-xxx-xxxx format
Fax Number
Applicant Information -- Project Summary Information
Proposed Use of BSTF Funds: Feasibility Studies
Eligible Activities Listed in Section II. C of the Application Guidelines.
Project Location City of Bozeman
County Gallatin
Total Project Cost $91,250.00
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Leave Blank - this amount will be automatically updated from your submitted budget.
Amount of BSTF Funds Requested $26,250.00
Leave Blank. This amount will be automatically updated based on your submitted budget.
Type of Assistance Requested Grant
Grant or Loan
Total Cash Match $65,000.00
Leave blank - as this will automatically update from the submitted budget
Applicant Information -- Assisted Business/Entity
Assisted Entity's Name N/A
If not applicable, mark the field N/A
Address
City State 9-digit Zip Code.
Contact Person for the Assisted Entity
First Name Last Name
Total Number of New Jobs to be Created
Enter a number only. If not applicable, leave blank.
Applicant Information - Partner Organizations
Organization Name N/A
If not applicable, mark the field N/A
Contact Person within the Organization
First Name Last Name
Organization Address
City State 9-digit Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address
What are the partner organization's responsibilities relative to the proposed project?
Project Information - Overview
Describe the proposed activity.
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The purpose of this project is to create a comprehensive master plan for a community fiber optic network. The project
will address the feasibility of creating a fiscally sustainable business model which includes a broadband infrastructure
construction plan and facilitation strategies.
The City of Bozeman is seeking technical assistance in its effort to increase access to affordable, high-speed, fiber
optic delivered broadband services throughout the city. The City seeks proposals assessing the feasibility of various
courses of action, including fiscally sustainable business models, broadband infrastructure construction planning,
and broadband facilitation strategies, based on an assessment of community needs. The final deliverable for this
project will be a comprehensive broadband master plan for the City of Bozeman that will meet the needs of business,
education, healthcare, and government stakeholders.
High capacity broadband is critical infrastructure for attracting and retaining businesses that will create high paying
jobs in the Bozeman area. Broadband removes the constraints of geography in serving state, national and
international clients. Businesses that regularly transfer large amounts of data, such as engineers, architects, lawyers,
and filmmakers will have options that meet their needs at a reasonable cost. Entrepreneurs who need fast and secure
access to distant clients will be able to focus on growing their businesses and creating jobs rather than paying
crushing broadband bills. Broadband infrastructure will attract businesses to move to the community to exploit
inexpensive network transport, inexpensive internet access, and data center services. Businesses will also benefit
from an educated workforce that is adaptable and prepared to address the rapidly changing needs of our world
community.
Primary and secondary educational institutions increasingly depend on broadband to provide high quality instruction
and meet standards for integrating technology into the classroom to prepare students to be career ready. Bozeman
schools, however, are under pressure to meet ever exponentially increasing standards for connectivity. The State
Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) has set a goal that by 2017, schools should provide at least 10
Gbps (gigabits per second) per 1000 students and staff over its internal wide area network (WAN) and 1 Gbps per 1000
students and staff connection to the outside internet. As a point of reference, the Bozeman School District currently
pays $159,000 annually to a private provider for networks speeds that are many times less than SETDAs
recommendations. Meeting these standards could be cost prohibitive for primary and secondary schools without
significant investments in local network infrastructure.
In summary, the comprehensive broadband master plan will further the City’s plans to utilize next generation
community network infrastructure to advance educational objectives, provide enhanced government services, and
promote economic development and business retention.
Describe the assisted entity or business (if applicable).
Bozeman's regional economy continues to grow and become more diversified, but continued growth requires
continued investments in communications infrastructure. The objective of this feasibility planning project is to
determine whether an infrastructure can be created that will help deliver faster, more reliable, and affordable internet
and metro ethernet services at an affordable cost for schools, private businesses, and local governments. In the
Bozeman region, several high-wage, high growth industry clusters would particularly benefit from enhanced
connectivity to regional, national, and international markets. These sectors include high-technology firms, photonics
and optics research and manufacturing, and outdoor product manufacturing. These industries would all benefit from
an enhanced fiber network to meet the demands of their businesses and the skilled workforce they employ.
List the activities that involves the utilization of the BSTF funds.
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A full feasibility study for the implementation of a hybrid fiber optic network. A contractor will be selected to complete
the scope of work as outlined below:
1. Facilitate Onsite Assessment Meetings with Key Stakeholders
Contractor will address these topics:
Review the project schedule, key milestones and deliverables•
Review economic development and other benefits of enhanced connectivity•
Identify growth areas and emerging companies in the region•
Identify potential service gaps and markets•
Review the range of potential business models•
Discuss potential product development, market positioning, and customer segments•
Develop a comprehensive list of stakeholders for inclusion in the planning process•
2. Assess the existing market for regional connectivity
Identify how the proposed master plan will assess existing community connectivity resources. This analysis will
identify particular market needs and how a community broadband network will fill a niche that meets those needs.
3. Develop Construction Standards for City Streets and Right-of-Way to Facilitate Public and Private Fiber
Construction.
a. Review the City of Bozeman’s engineering and development processes and standards and make
recommendations on how to implement fiber optic construction.
b. Develop a formal “dig-once policy” and construction specifications to facilitate placement of conduit throughout
the community as part of City construction standards.
c. Develop a formal building standards policy and construction specifications to facilitate in-building access for
wireline infrastructure in new construction and major remodels.
4. Analyze Service Models, Ownership, and Operations
a. The feasibility study will show how various potential service models will allow the community to meet its
objectives. The plan will delineate the approach of the master plan for addressing the strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats posed by potential service models. Private-public partnerships and open-access models
must be included. The plan will include a business case analysis for each of its recommended models. The report will
recommend a preferred service model that best meets community goals.
5. Develop a Build Plan
a. Build Plan for the Fiber Ring: Based on a thorough analysis of community needs propose methods for
determining a high-level design for network infrastructure to meet the region’s goals.
b. Build Plan for a Network Facility: Discuss the process for locating and planning a network facility.
6. Financial Sustainability Plan
a. The plan will address financial considerations including, but not limited to; Revenue targets, resources required
to meet those targets, and return on investment analysis, Cost/benefit analysis that follows accounting standards,
Pricing and tiered revenue structures, and Financing the Fiber Ring and Network Facility.
7. Benefits Analysis
a. Discuss benefits of the proposed network for the stakeholders including but not limited to: Public Education
Sector, Research Activities, Technology Sector, New Business Startup Activities, Enhancing Government and Civic
Engagement, and Economic Development.
8. Outline Next Steps for Implementation of the Master Plan
Identify the entities involved in completing the proposed project, including management of the project/staffing plan.
Prospera Business Network will be responsible for the administration of the BSTF funds. Prospera will be responsible
for grant administration, working with the contractor on the project to ensure proper and timely reporting.
Project oversight will be a collaboration between Prospera Business Network, the City of Bozeman, and the Northern
Rocky Mountain Economic Development District as all three entities are managing different portions of the total
budget or project administration.
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Provide an implementation plan or timeline for the project activities from start-up through closeout.
The project study is expected to begin May 1, 2014 and be completed by Dec 31, 2014.
Specify if outside professional services will be procured.
Yes, an RFP has been let by the City of Bozeman for the project. A copy of the RFP is included with the application
package.
Provide any relevant historical information on this project or the region it could support.
Bozeman and Gallatin County are one of the fastest growing regions in the state. Our growth is being driven by clean,
high tech industries, research and development activities at the University, and through entrepreneurs committed to
building and growing their own companies in Montana. As we continue to strive to find ways to facilitate this growth
and further diversify our economy, having the infrastructure that enables entrepreneurship thrive is critical. Without
advances in communication technologies, and building the breadth and depth for a more robust broadband network,
Bozeman and the surround is not able to access all of the opportunities that it could to grow as a regional economic
hub for Southwest Montana.
Project Information - Economic Impact Statement
Impact Statement
There are no known negative impacts from this project. If this study demonstrates that the implementation of the
project is feasible, and financially sustainable it will provide the community with a substantial positive economic
benefit for businesses and the education system.
Development of this infrastructure project would enhance the regions capacity to improve our educational programs
offered in our K-12, provide a tangible foundation to support and diversify our growing economy, and helping
businesses improve efficiencies through greater connectivity. This network infrastructure will improve our capacity to
help business expand in the region, and ultimately continue to add new jobs to our economy.
It will provide another critical link in a more robust broadband network within the State of Montana, enhancing the I-90
corridor's economic growth potential.
Project Objectives & Deliverables
Objectives
Please describe, in detail, the objectives of the project
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Scope of the Master Plan.
1. Facilitate Onsite Assessment Meetings with Key Stakeholders
a. The proposal should specify agendas for onsite meetings for the firm to meet with stakeholders to discuss the
stakeholders’ project vision, motivations, goals, and objectives.
b. The agendas for the proposed meetings should include, at minimum, the following discussion topics. The
proposed agendas may not be limited to these topics.
Review the project schedule, key milestones and deliverables•
Review economic development and other benefits of enhanced connectivity•
Identify growth areas and emerging companies in the region•
Identify potential service gaps and markets•
Review the range of potential business models•
Discuss potential product development, market positioning, and customer segments•
Develop a comprehensive list of stakeholders for inclusion in the planning process•
c. The agenda should demonstrate that the firm understands the importance of stakeholder engagement in
gathering relevant data to meet the service and financial needs of stakeholders and the community at large.
2. Assess the existing market for regional connectivity
a. Discuss how the proposed master plan will assess existing community connectivity resources. This analysis
should include how the assessment will identify particular market needs and how a community broadband network
will fill a niche that meets those needs.
3. Develop Construction Standards for City Streets and Right-of-Way to Facilitate Public and Private Fiber
Construction.
a. Review the City of Bozeman’s engineering and development processes and standards and make
recommendations on how to implement fiber optic construction.
b. Develop a formal “dig-once policy” and construction specifications to facilitate placement of conduit throughout
the community as part of City construction standards.
c. Develop a formal building standards policy and construction specifications to facilitate in-building access for
wireline infrastructure in new construction and major remodels.
4. Analyze Service Models, Ownership, and Operations
a. The proposal should discuss how various potential service models will allow the community to meet its
objectives. The proposal should delineate the approach of the master plan for addressing the strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats posed by potential service models. Private-public partnerships and open-access models
must be included. The proposal should include a business case analysis for each of its recommended models. The
report should recommend a particular service model that the firm believes best meets community goals.
5. Develop a Build Plan
a. Build Plan for the Fiber Ring: Based on a thorough analysis of community needs propose methods for
determining a high-level design for network infrastructure to meet the region’s goals. The proposed Build Plan for the
Fiber Ring section should include, at minimum, the following attributes:
Fiber Ring Characteristics Development•
Fiber Ring Path Planning for Initial Sites including City Offices, County Offices, Bozeman School District No. 7,
Downtown Bozeman Tax Increment Financing District, and Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
•
Planning for Future Expansion•
Discuss how open access considerations affect the proposed build plan•
b. Build Plan for a Network Facility: Discuss the process for locating and planning a network facility. The proposed
Build Plan for the Network Facility section should include, at minimum, the following attributes:
Location Characteristics•
Power Considerations•
Carrier Access•
Physical Security•
Explore potential partnerships with existing and developing network facilities•
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c. Propose a timeline for the various components of the proposed build plan.
6. Financial Sustainability Plan
a. The proposer should articulate the full scope of its proposed comprehensive business planning process. The
proposal should present strategies for addressing, at minimum, the following financial considerations within a
comprehensive business plan:
Revenue targets, resources required to meet those targets, and return on investment analysis•
Cost/benefit analysis that follows accounting standards•
Pricing and tiered revenue structures•
Financing the Fiber Ring and Network Facility•
Outline Operational Considerations:•
Maintenance•
Operation•
Administration•
Outline Service Considerations:•
Discuss how the characteristics of the service levels provided will affect operating costs.•
Partnership Opportunities for Funding•
Outline how E-Rate funding can be used to support the cost of network construction.•
Outline potential grant opportunities and other sources of funding.•
7. Benefits Analysis
a. Discuss benefits of the proposed network for the following stakeholders:
Public Education Sector•
Research Activities•
Technology Sector•
New Business Startup Activities•
Enhancing Government and Civic Engagement•
Economic Development•
8. Outline Next Steps for Implementation of the Master Plan
a. Outline the next steps for implementing the Master Plan upon its adoption by the City Commission.
Estimate the cost for each of the proposed implementation steps.•
9. Final Deliverable
a. The final deliverable will include all elements of a traditional business plan, and will encompass the strategic
plan and all other data and insights developed in the previous deliverables.
b. Maps and specific location data provided in the Master Plan should be GIS compatible, so that construction can
be coordinated with other City infrastructure and projects.
c. The final deliverable should be presented at a public meeting.
Deliverables
What will be the deliverable(s)? Provide a bulleted list detailing what will be delivered to the Department that demonstrates that the
objectives were met at the end of the project.
Final Deliverable
a. The final deliverable will include all elements of a traditional business plan, and will encompass the strategic plan
and all other data and insights developed in the previous deliverables.
b. Maps and specific location data provided in the Master Plan should be GIS compatible, so that construction can be
coordinated with other City infrastructure and projects.
c. The final deliverable should be presented at a public meeting.
Overall Project Budget
149
Deliverables Activity BSTF Request Other Funding
Source Total Project Cost
Administration Administration $1,250.00 $0.00 $1,250.00
Business and
Strategic Plan
Professional
Services $25,000.00 $65,000.00 $90,000.00
$26,250.00 $65,000.00 $91,250.00
Budget Narrative - Other Funding Sources
Other Funding Source Amount Status
Funding Source US Dept. of Commerce -
EDA $25,000.00 Requested
Funding Source Private/Local Public
Sector $40,000.00 Requested
Funding Source $0.00
Funding Source $0.00
Funding Source $0.00
Funding Source $0.00
Funding Source $0.00
Funding Source $0.00
Totals $65,000.00
Budget Narrative - Checkpoint
Total from Budget $65,000.00
If the amount listed in the budget does not match the total of the other funding sources, then please correct.
Budget Narrative - All Funds
Professional Services
How was the Professional Services budget derived?
Please provide a detailed narrative describing how you derived at the Professional Services budget. Cost proposals should be
attached below.
The total cost of the proposed feasibility study is $90,000.00. This budget was derived from a series of meetings with
stakeholders and potential service providers that would bid on the RFP. The budget was then vetted again, with
stakeholders to determine cost relevance and suitability for the project.
Included in the budget is the 5% allowable costs associated with the administration of the grant through Prospera, to
cover our accounting administration and general grant administration.
Other
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If you included "Other" in your budget, please provide a detailed narrative describing how you derived at the "Other" budget.Cost
proposals should be attached below.
While the total budget is $90,000.00, the BSTF request will cover $25K of that total budget. Match funding will
represent a blend of the EDA funds and/or private/local public sector funds. Private sector funds are being requested
from companies with the largest stake in the fiber network including Bozeman Deaconess Health Services,
Northwestern Energy, the local banking community, and the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce. Public sector funds are
being requested from the Bozeman School District, Gallatin County, and the City of Bozeman. To date, funding
commitments have been secured from Bozeman Deaconess Hospital ($20,000), the City of Bozeman ($20,000), and the
Downtown Bozeman Tax Increment Finance District ($10,000).
EDA funds will be administered through the Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District.
The successful applicant through the RFP process will be billing Prospera Business Network and any of our funding
partners separately for the respective funds administered.
In the event that EDA funds cannot be secured, additional funds will be sought from the stakeholder group to fund any
deficit in the required match.
In-kind Contributions
Although in-kind contributions are not considered match, applicants may elect to provide a narrative of their proposed in-kind
contributions to the project.
Budget Narrative - Attachments
Cost Estimates or Quotes
Please attach the cost estimates and/or quotes for any professional services or vendors to be utilized.
Cost Estimates
Cost Estimates
Letters of Commitment
Please attach any letters of commitment for the other funding sources.
Letters TIF Broadband commitment letter 3-17-14.pdf
Letters BDHS BB Letter of Support 032014.pdf
Supporting Documentation
File Name Description File Size
Broadband RFP 2-27-2014.pdf Broadband RFP 69 KB
Certification
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Attachment Description File Name File Size Type
Certification Form CRDC Certification MT BSTF CRDC
Certification.pdf 10.5 MB pdf
Tribal Government
Applications Tribal Resolution
152
March 17, 2014
Mayor Jeff Krauss
City of Bozeman
121 North Rouse Avenue
Bozeman, Montana 59771-1230
Mayor Krauss:
The Downtown Bozeman Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District is enthusiastic to support the
Bozeman Broadband Initiative and its development of a comprehensive master plan for a
community fiber optic network. Downtown Bozeman is the business, retail and cultural center of
our community. As we work to promote economic diversification and infill throughout the district,
it is essential for us to build infrastructure that is essential for future growth. The Downtown
Bozeman TIF District is pleased to be a partner in the Bozeman Broadband Initiative and has
committed $10,000 toward the master planning process.
Affordable broadband access is essential to the health of our community. Technology firms, banks,
businesses, and startups require fast, reliable, and secure connections to their clients. Broadband
connectivity is presently only available at high prices or at disparate locations. We believe that
increasing the availability of affordable broadband is essential to well-being of this community and
we are invested in making this critical infrastructure widely available.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with the City of Bozeman and the completion of the
master planning process.
Respectfully,
Chris Naumann
Executive Director
153
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CITY OF BOZEMAN REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
FOR
DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN FOR A COMMUNITY FIBER OPTIC NETWORK.
The City of Bozeman is soliciting proposals to develop a comprehensive master plan for a community fiber optic network.
For documents, please contact:
Stacy Ulmen City Clerk
P.O. Box 1230
Bozeman, MT 59771-1230
(406) 582-2321
sulmen@bozeman.net
An electronic version (PDF) of the response will be received by the City Clerk,
agenda@bozeman.net, until 5:00 PM, MST, on Friday, March 28, 2014. The City of Bozeman and
its agents reserve the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any formality and technicality.
Legal Ad
Publish: Sunday, March 2, 2014
Sunday, March 9, 2014
155
CITY OF BOZEMAN
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN FOR A COMMUNITY FIBER OPTIC NETWORK.
Purpose: The City of Bozeman is seeking technical assistance in its effort to increase access to
affordable, high-speed, fiber optic delivered broadband services throughout the city. The City seeks
proposals assessing the feasibility of various courses of action, including fiscally sustainable
business models, broadband infrastructure construction planning, and broadband facilitation
strategies, based on an assessment of community needs.
PART I
A. Requirements for Submission of City Proposals.
1. RFP deadline:
a. 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2014
b. Mail to: City Clerk
Stacy Ulmen P.O. Box 1230 Bozeman, MT 59771-1230
An electronic version (PDF) of the response should be emailed to the City Clerk,
agenda@bozeman.net with the subject line, “COMMUNITY BROADBAND MASTER PLAN PROPOSAL." 2. To be eligible to qualify as a qualified broadband master planning vendor, the following minimum requirements must be met:
a. The firm must be of widely recognized ability and standing, and authorized
to conduct business in Montana.
b. The firm must employ at least one principle who holds a terminal degree in
computer science, engineering, or physics.
c. The firm must have created broadband master plans for similar
governmental units.
d. The proposed master plan shall propose outcomes that are in compliance
with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations.
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e. The firm must include a statement of the all- inclusive fee for which the
work that will be done. A statement of the estimated total number of hours
required for each phase of planning process and the cost of those staff hours is also required.
f. Agree to the terms of the City’s contracting requirements including filing a
non-discrimination statement.
3. The Selection Committee will schedule oral presentations by selected firms if deemed
necessary. 4. The final deliverable will be submitted to the City by September 26, 2014. The master planning work can be commenced by the successful firm at any time after the contract is
awarded. 5. The master plan contract will be between the master plan firm, the City, and Gallatin Development Corporation DBA Prospera Business Network (Prospera).
B. Scope of the Master Plan.
The successful individual or firm will provide the City with services including, but not
necessarily limited to:
Primary Services:
1. Facilitate Onsite Assessment Meetings with Key Stakeholders
a. The proposal should specify agendas for onsite meetings for the firm to meet
with stakeholders to discuss the stakeholders’ project vision, motivations, goals, and objectives.
b. The agendas for the proposed meetings should include, at minimum, the
following discussion topics. The proposed agendas may not be limited to these topics.
• Review the project schedule, key milestones and deliverables
• Review economic development and other benefits of enhanced connectivity
• Identify growth areas and emerging companies in the region
• Identify potential service gaps and markets
• Review the range of potential business models
• Discuss potential product development, market positioning, and
customer segments
• Develop a comprehensive list of stakeholders for inclusion in the planning process
157
c. The agenda should demonstrate that the firm understands the importance of
stakeholder engagement in gathering relevant data to meet the service and financial needs of stakeholders and the community at large.
2. Assess the existing market for regional connectivity
a. Discuss how the proposed master plan will assess existing community
connectivity resources. This analysis should include how the assessment will
identify particular market needs and how a community broadband network will
fill a niche that meets those needs. 3. Develop Construction Standards for City Streets and Right-of-Way to Facilitate Public and Private Fiber Construction.
a. Review the City of Bozeman’s engineering and development processes and
standards and make recommendations on how to implement fiber optic
construction.
b. Develop a formal “dig-once policy” and construction specifications to facilitate
placement of conduit throughout the community as part of City construction standards.
c. Develop a formal building standards policy and construction specifications to
facilitate in-building access for wireline infrastructure in new construction and
major remodels.
4. Analyze Service Models, Ownership, and Operations
a. The proposal should discuss how various potential service models will allow the community to meet its objectives. The proposal should delineate the approach of
the master plan for addressing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and
threats posed by potential service models. Private-public partnerships and open-
access models must be included. The proposal should include a business case
analysis for each of its recommended models. The report should recommend a particular service model that the firm believes best meets community goals.
158
5. Develop a Build Plan
a. Build Plan for the Fiber Ring: Based on a thorough analysis of community needs propose methods for determining a high-level design for network infrastructure
to meet the region’s goals. The proposed Build Plan for the Fiber Ring section
should include, at minimum, the following attributes:
• Fiber Ring Characteristics Development
• Fiber Ring Path Planning for Initial Sites including City Offices, County
Offices, Bozeman School District No. 7, Downtown Bozeman Tax
Increment Financing District, and Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
• Planning for Future Expansion
• Discuss how open access considerations affect the proposed build plan b. Build Plan for a Network Facility: Discuss the process for locating and planning a network facility. The proposed Build Plan for the Network Facility section should include, at minimum, the following attributes:
• Location Characteristics
• Power Considerations
• Carrier Access
• Physical Security
• Explore potential partnerships with existing and developing network facilities c. Propose a timeline for the various components of the proposed build plan.
6. Financial Sustainability Plan
a. The proposer should articulate the full scope of its proposed comprehensive
business planning process. The proposal should present strategies for addressing,
at minimum, the following financial considerations within a comprehensive business plan:
• Revenue targets, resources required to meet those targets, and return on
investment analysis
• Cost/benefit analysis that follows accounting standards
• Pricing and tiered revenue structures
• Financing the Fiber Ring and Network Facility
• Outline Operational Considerations: 1. Maintenance
2. Operation
3. Administration
• Outline Service Considerations: 1. Discuss how the characteristics of the service levels provided will affect operating costs.
• Partnership Opportunities for Funding
159
• Outline how E-Rate funding can be used to support the cost of network
construction.
• Outline potential grant opportunities and other sources of funding. 7. Benefits Analysis
a. Discuss benefits of the proposed network for the following stakeholders:
• Public Education Sector
• Research Activities
• Technology Sector
• New Business Startup Activities
• Enhancing Government and Civic Engagement
• Economic Development
8. Outline Next Steps for Implementation of the Master Plan
a. Outline the next steps for implementing the Master Plan upon its adoption by the
City Commission.
• Estimate the cost for each of the proposed implementation steps. 9. Final Deliverable
a. The final deliverable will include all elements of a traditional business plan, and
will encompass the strategic plan and all other data and insights developed in the previous deliverables.
b. Maps and specific location data provided in the Master Plan should be GIS
compatible, so that construction can be coordinated with other City infrastructure
and projects. c. The final deliverable should be presented at a public meeting.
Additional Services Upon Request by City:
1. Attend meetings, if requested, with employees and officials to refine and clarify components of the master plan.
2. Assist the City, if requested, in implementing any part of the proposed master plan.
3. Assist in the development, if requested, of City-wide policies, regulations, procedures,
and engineering standards needed to implement the master plan or facilitate the building
of broadband infrastructure.
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C. City Responsibilities
1. The City will provide:
a. Consultation, as needed, with Planning, Economic Development, Finance
and Public Works (which includes the Engineering and GIS Divisions).
b. Coordination of stakeholder meetings and identification of initial
stakeholders.
2. The City will provide access to all files and records of the City departments.
3. The City staff will not prepare any of the deliverables listed in the scope other than
what may be agreed mutually agreed upon.
D. Proposer Responsibilities
1. The proposer will:
a. Prepare a comprehensive master plan for a community fiber optic network. b. Submit a draft copy of the master plan to the City at least two weeks prior to the
final report date to enable city officials to review its contents for possible
changes.
c. Provide the city with an electronic copy of the master plan.
2. If there is a substantial change in the firm's staff (i.e. principal assigned to the master
plan, etc.) prior to or during the master planning process, the city reserves the right
to void the contract.
E. Information to be Requested from the Proposer
To provide for a uniform review process and to obtain comparability, it is required that
proposals be organized in the manner specified below.
1. Title Page
Show the RFP subject, the name of the firm, address, telephone number, name of the
contact person, and the date.
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2. Letter of Transmittal
Limit to two pages.
a. Briefly state the proposer's understanding of the work to be done and make a
positive commitment to perform the work within the time period.
b. Describe the proposer’s approach to broadband master planning and explain the
strengths of that approach.
c. Give the names of the persons who will be authorized to make representations for the proposer, their titles, addresses and telephone numbers.
3. Profile of the Proposer
a. State whether the firm is local, regional, or national.
b. Give the location of the office from which the work is to be done and the number
of partners, managers, supervisors, seniors, and other professional staff
employed at that office. 4. Professional Qualifications to be Addressed in Response:
a. Identify the partners, managers and supervisors who will work on the master plan. Resumes for each supervisory person to be assigned to the master plan
should be included. The resumes may be included as an appendix.
b. Describe experience similar to the type of master plan requested and give the
names and telephone numbers of client officials who can be contacted as
references. c. Describe experience related to providing broadband master planning services
to public entities.
d. Three references of which must have knowledge of your work advising public
entities with respect to implementing broadband strategies.
e. Examples of your successes representing public entities. f. A copy of any required professional federal and/or state licenses to perform
the required activities.
g. Provide samples of deliverables for similar services; and
h. Any other information the interested individual or firm deems relevant.
5. Scope Section
Describe your firm's approach to completing the Scope of the Master Plan as
described above, demonstrating an understanding of the tasks and the level of effort
required.
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6. Additional Data
Since data not specifically requested must not be included in the foregoing proposal
sections, give any additional information considered essential to the proposal in this section. If there is no additional information to present, state in this section, "There
is no additional information we wish to present".
Section 2 - Compensation
Estimate the total hours and the resulting all-inclusive maximum fee for the requested work. An appendix stating the hourly rates to be charged for each staff classification is required. The proposer will not be reimbursed for any travel, per
diem, photo copying, telephone bills, or other related expenses of the proposal
unless incurred at the specific request of the City.
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PART II
Evaluation of Proposals
Proposals will be evaluated using a predetermined method to ascertain which proposer best meets the needs of the City. In some circumstances, proposals may be so similar in quality
that oral interviews may have to be arranged to assist in making the final selection.
Evaluation considerations will include the following.
1. Professional Qualifications:
a. Relevant broadband master planning experience (governmental), including
experience successfully implementing broadband master plans in communities in which city government, county government, public schools, and a public
university were principle partners.
b. Experience and References
c. Qualifications of principal three (3) personnel to be assigned in conducting the
relevant technical and business master planning for community fiber optic
networks (experience, training, communication skills.) 2. Technical Approach:
a. Ability to clearly articulate technical solutions and policy recommendations.
b. Ability to clearly delineate the characteristics of a financially sustainable funding
model including a functional business plan.
c. Ability to communicate the master plan proposal in an organized, clear and
convincing manner.
3. Fees: a. Estimated cost as compared with other bids.
Staff Contact for Additional Information: Questions regarding this Request For Proposals may be directed to David Fine, City of Bozeman Economic Development Specialist, at dfine@bozeman.net or 406-582-2973.
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Part III
Reservation of Rights
The issuance of this RFP and the receipt of proposals by the City shall not constitute an agreement or representation by the City that a contract for the work will actually be entered into
by the City.
The City reserves the right to issue written notice of changes to the submittal process should the City determines in its sole and absolute discretion that such changes are necessary or desirable. In addition and notwithstanding any other provision of this RFP, the City reserves the right to:
a. Waive any immaterial defect or informality in a submittal;
b. Extend or otherwise revise the submittal date;
c. Reject any or all submissions or portions thereof;
d. Select proposals that are in the best interest of the City considering experience of the
firm, workload of the firm, and other qualifications evaluation criteria as well as any
other factor the City determines in its sole discretion to be reasonable;
e. Negotiate terms and conditions of a contract;
f. Reissue a new or revised RFP or cancel this RFP; and
g. Request additional information from one or more respondents.
Employment Restriction and Indemnity
No person who is an owner, officer, employee, contractor or consultant of a respondent shall be
an officer or employee of the City. No rights of the City’s retirement or personnel rules accrue to a respondent, its officers, employees, contractors, or consultants. Respondents shall have the
responsibility of all salaries, wages, bonuses, retirement, withholdings, worker’s compensation
and occupational disease compensation, insurance, unemployment compensation other benefits
and taxes and premiums appurtenant thereto concerning its officers, employees, contractors, and
consultants. Each respondent shall save and hold the City harmless with respect to any and all claims for payment, compensation, salary, wages, bonuses, retirement, withholdings, worker’s
compensation and occupational disease compensation, insurance, unemployment compensation
other benefits and taxes and premiums in any way related to each respondent’s officers,
employees, contractors and consultants.
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Submittal Rejection/Right to Disqualify
Submittal of terms, condition and/or agreements may result in rejection if such terms, conditions,
or agreements are deemed unacceptable by the City in its sole discretion. The City reserves the right to disqualify any respondent who fails to provide information or data specifically requested herein or who provides materially inaccurate or misleading information or data or who attempts
to influence the selection process outside the procedures established herein. The City reserves the
right to disqualify any respondent on the basis of any real or apparent conflict of interest. This
disqualification is at the sole discretion of the City. Discrimination
Discrimination in the performance of any agreement awarded under this RFP on the basis of
race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, or actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or disability is prohibited. This prohibition shall apply to the hiring
and treatment of the awarded entity’s employees and to all subcontracts.
As such, each entity submitting under this notice shall include a provision wherein the
submitting entity, or entities, affirms in writing it will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, or because of actual or perceived sexual
orientation, gender identity or disability and which also recognizes the eventual contract will
contain a provision prohibiting discrimination as described above and that this prohibition on
discrimination shall apply to the hiring and treatment of the submitting entity’s employees and to
all subcontracts.
Failure to comply with the above shall be cause for the City to deem the submittal non-
responsive.
Accessibility
Upon reasonable notice, the City will provide assistance for those persons with sensory
impairments. For further information please contact the ADA Coordinator James Goehrung at
406-582-3232 or the City’s TTY line at 406-582-2301.
Governing Law
This RFP and any disputes arising hereunder or under any future agreement for the sale and
purchase of shares, interests, or rights shall be governed hereafter and construed and enforced in
accordance with the laws of the State of Montana, without reference to principles of choice or conflicts of laws.
Miscellaneous
No conversations or agreements with any officer, employee, or agent of the City shall affect or modify any term of this RFP. Oral communications or any written/email communication
between any person and the designated contact City staff shall not be considered binding.
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