2006 NS Contract - Animal Services Facility Design Services

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ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: November 2, 2006 Action Agenda Item No. Q- b SUBJECT• Contract Approval• Animal Services Facility Design Services DEPARTMENT: Purchasing and Central PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No Services, Animal Services ATTACHMENT(S): Cost Proposal INFORMATION CONTACT: . Pam Jones (919) 245-2652 Bob Marotto (919) 968-2287 PURPOSE: To consider authorizing a contract with Dixon Weinstein Architects for services associated with the design of the new Animal Services Facility on Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill and services associated with the regulatory approvals required for the project, at a cost not to exceed. $623,375, plus reimbursable costs. BACKGROUND: The County has recently concluded aqualifications-based selection process for design services associated with the proposed 19,000-24,000 square foot Animal Services Facility, in which to consolidate all divisions of the Animal Services Department. Of the six firms that responded, four were interviewed. While each of the firms is qualified, the design team led by Dixon Weinstein is recommended for the Board's consideration. The selection group focused not only on the design capabilities needed for a quality facility, but also the ability of the consultant to shepherd the project effectively through the 12-15 month regulatory review process that is required. The design team recommended is strong in both areas. Dixon Weinstein's work is well known to the County through the design work associated with the Skills Development Center on Franklin Street, Chapel Hill; and more recently through the design of the Solid Waste Administration Building that will be built on Eubanks Road. The firm can bring an innovative design approach to the project that incorporates elements that are important to the success of the project, such as incorporating sustainable design elements into the building and the development of the site; beginning the project with familiarity with the Eubanks Road area because of on-going work with the Solid Waste Administrative offices; and a having a well-developed working knowledge of the Chapel Hill regulatory process.