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Regular Agenda Item 3. G.

Regular BOS Meeting

Meeting Date:	08/04/2020
Submitted For:	Homero Vela	Submitted By:	Betty Hurst, Contracts Administrator
Department:	Finance

Information

Request/Subject

Request for Proposal No. 071320 to hire a consultant to perform the scope of work as outlined in Master Broadband Plan Phase 2 to include network design, cost, and operational structure.

Background Information

Gila County has previously hired a consultant to provide conceptual network designs, a preliminary market analysis, initial website, development of project plans and benchmarks, specification of inside and outside plant equipment, develop financial pro-forma based on the conceptual design and assist with community and partner engagement. This work is on-going. Gila County staff and Board members have visited with the 6 cities and towns in Gila County and they have all expressed an interest in working collectively on a Gila County Broadband Strategic Plan. The Arizona Commerce Authority has granted Gila County a $50,000 grant and this additional funding will allow us to go to a second level of detail in our planning process.

Evaluation

The need exists to develop an affordable strategic broadband plan and prepare the roadmap for implementation. It is requested that the Board of Supervisors authorize the advertisement of Request for Proposals No. 071320 to hire a consultant who will develop detailed designs and plans for a Countywide broadband plan. The detailed plans will serve to guide the County in determining the best way to proceed with future implementation of broadband infrastructure and offer the flexibility of regional or countywide deployment.

It has long been evident that rural communities lag behind urban communities in broadband infrastructure. The COVID pandemic shines a light on this disparity and brings a focus to the idea that our quality of life is dependent, in many aspects, to the quality of our internet connectivity. A strategic and detailed plan will allow Gila County to submit for broadband grants and pursue an implementation plan. The County does not have the expertise to accomplish this project and is seeking a consultant who has a proven track record in broadband infrastructure development.

Conclusion

Request for Proposal No. 071320 for Master Broadband Plan Phase 2 will advertise in the Payson Roundup on August 11, 2020, and August 18, 2021. The proposal due date will be September 3, 2020.

Recommendation

Staff recommends that the Board of Supervisors approve the advertisement of Request for Proposals No. 071320 for this consultant service not to exceed project funding of $50,000.

Suggested Motion

Information/Discussion/Action to authorize the advertisement of Request for Proposals No. 071320 to hire a consultant in a not to exceed amount of $50,000 to perform the scope of work as outlined in Master Broadband Plan Phase 2 for the development of a detailed design, plans and cost for a Countywide broadband network. (Homero Vela)

Attachments
Request to Advertise
RFP 071320-Master Broadband Plan Phase 2