Memorandum

City of Lawrence

City Manager’s Office

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	Diane Stoddard, Assistant City Manager
CC:	Cynthia Wagner, Assistant City Manager
Date:	November 21, 2011
RE:	Farmland Master Plan Consultant Recommendations

Please place the following item on the agenda for the December 6, 2011 City Commission meeting.

Approve recommendation to select the team of Bartlett & West/CDM as the consultant for the Farmland Master Plan and authorize staff to negotiate a scope of services for the project, if appropriate.

Background:

In early fall 2011, the City Commission authorized the publication of a request for proposals for the Farmland Master Plan process.  Proposals were due back on October 7, 2011.  The City received a total of nine (9) proposals. 

The selection committee consisted of City Commissioner Mike Dever, City Manager David Corliss, Director of Public Works Chuck Soules, Director of Planning and Development Services Scott McCullough, Stormwater Engineer Matt Bond, Economic Development Coordinator Britt Crum-Cano, and Diane Stoddard, Assistant City Manager.  The committee reviewed the nine (9) initial submittals and narrowed the group to six (6) teams to invite for interviews.  Interviews were held on November 14 and 15, 2011. 

As a result of the initial proposals, the follow up questions, and the interviews, the Committee is recommending the team of Bartlett & West/CDM to complete the Farmland Mater Plan.  The committee is recommending this team due to its comprehensive approach to the project, incorporating sustainable energy options, knowledge of the property, and the ability to execute infrastructure solutions for the property. The team showed its ability to incorporate sustainable design and green energy into the planning process through its experience with a green energy business park developed in North Carolina.  Also, the team emphasized creative and flexible options related to the future development of the property.  The team’s response to the RFP is attached.

Recommended Action:

The selection committee recommends that the City Commission authorize staff to negotiate a scope of services with the team of Bartlett & West/CDM for the Farmland Master Plan.