RFP: Consultant Services for Review and Redesign of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts

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July 28, 2025 in City of Ellsworth News, RFPs & RFQs – Archived

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Consultant Services for Review and Redesign of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts

RFP Issued: July 28, 2025
Questions Due: August 4, 2025
Questions Due: August 18, 2025
Proposals Due: August 11, 2025
Proposals Due: August 25, 2025

View Addendum for August 11, 2025

I. Introduction

The City of Ellsworth is seeking proposals from qualified consultants or firms to provide professional services for the review and redesign of the City’s existing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. The purpose of this project is to ensure the City’s TIF strategy is aligned with current economic development priorities, complies with all relevant laws, and maximizes financial effectiveness.

II. Background

The City currently operates four (4) TIF districts, which serve as critical tools for stimulating investment, supporting infrastructure development, and encouraging job creation. As economic conditions, municipal goals, and regulatory frameworks evolve, a comprehensive re-assessment of these districts is needed to maintain their strategic value and effectiveness.

III. Scope of Services

The selected consultant will be expected to provide the following services:

    • Comprehensive Analysis
      Review all existing TIF districts, assessing their financial impact, legal compliance, and effectiveness in meeting the City’s economic development goals.
    • Strategic Recommendations
      Work with the City’s Economic Development Director to review restructuring strategies, including boundary modifications, revised revenue capture methods, and identification of opportunities for new TIF districts.
    • Financial Modeling & Projections
      Develop financial models to forecast the fiscal implications of proposed changes and ensure alignment with long-term municipal goals.
    • Regulatory Compliance
      Review all recommendations for adherence to Maine’s TIF statutes and regulatory best practices to ensure full legal compliance.
    • Stakeholder Engagement
      Support City officials in facilitating engagement with relevant stakeholders, including City officials, local businesses, and residents, to gather input and build consensus around proposed changes.

IV. Estimated Budget

The total budget for this project is approximately $35,000, contingent upon final scope.

V. Proposal Requirements

Interested consultants must include the following in their proposals:

    1. Firm/Consultant Profile – Company background and contact information.
    2. Relevant Experience – Description of similar projects with TIF planning and municipal projects.
    3. Project Approach – Proposed methodology and approach to stakeholder engagement.
    4. Timeline – Proposed work schedule including public engagement opportunities.
    5. Team Qualifications – Key personnel and their qualifications.
    6. Cost Proposal – Total cost with breakdowns by phase or task.
    7. References – At least three references from recent, comparable projects.

VI. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following:

    • Experience and qualifications
    • Understanding of TIF regulations and Maine State Law
    • Quality of approach and methodology
    • Cost effectiveness
    • References and past performance

VII. Submission Details

Deadline for Submission:  August 11, 2025
Submit Proposals To:
Twila Fisher, Economic Development Director
1 City Hall Plaza, Ellsworth Maine. 04605
tfisher@ellsworthmaine.gov

VIII. Timeline

RFP Issued: July 28, 2025
Questions Due: August 4, 2025
Questions Due: August 18, 2025
Proposals Due: August 11, 2025
Proposals Due: August 25, 2025