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3 <br /> County staff further recommends the Phase One final work product be presented to the public <br /> through one or more input and feedback sessions using an external facilitator. Findings from the <br /> feedback sessions would assist the steering committee in developing the formal RFP for Phase <br /> Two. The BOCC would approve the contract award for Phase Two. Phase One should take <br /> approximately 3-6 months from contract execution and cost an estimated $20,000-$25,000. The <br /> expert facilitation of public sessions is estimated at $5000-$7500. <br /> Phase Two: " Where do we want to go?" <br /> Phase Two is an environmental analysis focusing on fire/rescue services delivery in a modern <br /> and increasingly urban community with changes anticipated in population, demographics, urban <br /> development, the transportation network and other factors over the next five to ten years. The <br /> consultant would be directed to return with projections and scenarios for providing the most <br /> appropriate level of services within Orange County, identifying the risk factors, trigger points, <br /> and resource requirements involved in decision making. Phase Two may take approximately 3- <br /> 6 months from contract execution and cost an estimated $25,000-$35,000. <br /> Phase Three: "How do we get there?" <br /> Phase Three is the development of a collaborative and detailed action plan built upon <br /> community values, best industry practices, risk management, and fiscal responsibility. The <br /> completed report would provide a strategy and financial roadmap for delivering a defined and <br /> acceptable level of fire/rescue services throughout the County. The ultimate "vision" on level of <br /> service and ability to pay is a decision to be made by the appointed and elected leadership <br /> based on sound information and public participation. The BOCC is responsible for setting the <br /> annual fire district tax rates and authorizing the annual budget for Emergency Services with <br /> related revenue from fire inspection fees. Phase Three may take approximately 6-8 months <br /> from contract execution and cost an estimated $35,000-$45,000. <br /> Initiating Phase One <br /> County staff and Fire Chiefs Council representatives believe an informal solicitation should be <br /> made to receive competitive proposals from a small group of pertinent professional associations <br /> with the demonstrated knowledge and experience to conduct a Phase One assessment. <br /> Four highly specialized and nationally recognized expert organizations with strong skills in <br /> research, publication, training, and technical consultation in the industry have been identified <br /> and expressed an interest in submitting a competitive proposal. <br /> 1) International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) <br /> 2) International City and County Manager's Association (ICMA) Public Safety Services <br /> 3) Oklahoma State University (Fire and Emergency Management Administration) <br /> 4) Texas A & M University (Emergency Services Training Institute) <br /> Emergency Services and County management will work with Purchasing/Central Services and <br /> Legal to issue a legal and proper informal solicitation letter to the four organizations and <br /> conduct an appropriate interview and evaluative process. The steering committee will consider <br /> the knowledge, resources and reputation of the respondents; quality and depth of <br /> credentials/experience; demonstrated understanding and approach to Orange County interests <br /> and concerns; and availability and overall cost to perform the necessary tasks. <br /> It is stressed that the County does not want a ready-made template. The successful <br /> organization will bring a custom approach in response to a unique environment and local needs. <br /> 3 <br />