RFP for Strategic Planning Services
Strategic Planning Services – Transition of Attainable Housing Group to Policy Board
RFP No. AHG-2025-01
Issue Date: August 7, 2025
Proposals Due: September 6, 2025 at 4:00 PM EST
I. INTRODUCTION
The City of Cumberland, Maryland, is seeking qualified consultants or firms to provide strategic planning services to facilitate the transition of the City’s multi-agency Attainable Housing Group (AHG) from a collaborative work group into a formal policy creation and implementation board dedicated to addressing housing related issues throughout the city.
The goal is to strengthen AHG’s governance, authority, and ability to address housing sustainability through data-driven policies and community-responsive action.
II. BACKGROUND
The Attainable Housing Group was created January 2024 as a multi-agency work group bringing together stakeholders from city departments, local nonprofits, housing authorities, real estate professionals, banking professionals and community leaders to coordinate efforts around affordable, Attainable housing. While AHG has been instrumental in facilitating cross-sector collaboration, its current structure lacks the authority, resources, and governance needed to formalize policy recommendations and oversee implementation.
The City recognizes the need for a more empowered structure to drive long-term housing outcomes aligned with economic mobility, access to capital and financial education, access to housing from low to moderate income though market rate housing.
III. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The selected consultant or firm will develop and deliver a strategic transition plan that includes:
· Organizational Assessment
· Stakeholder Engagement (limited to the AHG)
· Governance & Structure Design
· Transition Roadmap
· Policy Development Framework
IV. DELIVERABLES
· Project Work Plan
· Stakeholder Engagement Summary
· Governance Model & Draft Bylaws
· Strategic Plan Document
· Transition Roadmap
· Final Presentation to Attainable Housing Group
This study will provide the most comprehensive plan possible under the limited time
constraints. It is anticipated that the majority of the operational and service information
will be derived from the AHG.
V. TIMELINE
Milestone
Target Date
RFP Issued
August 11, 2025
Proposal Submission Deadline
September 5, 2025
Selection and Notification
September 16, 2025
Project Kickoff
Final Plan Submission
September 30, 2025
December 22, 2025
VI. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
· Cover Letter
· Firm Profile & Experience
· Project Understanding & Approach
· Proposed Work Plan & Timeline
· Key Personnel & Resumes
· Relevant Project Examples (3 max)
· References (3 minimum)
· Cost Proposal (Detailed and Not-to-Exceed)
VII. EVALUATION CRITERIA
Criteria
Weight
Relevant Experience
25%
Approach & Methodology
25%
Quality of Work Samples
15%
Cost Effectiveness
15%
Team Qualifications
10%
References
10%
VIII. SUBMISSION DETAILS
This study is grant funded and capped at $20,000. This study is funded by the International City /County Management Association through its 2025 Economic Mobility Cohort. The funds are in the City’s possession.
The initial study must be completed by December 31, 2025 to be compliant with the grant. There can be no time extension granted on the initial study.
Additional follow up or work items may be added after the initial study is completed.
IX. SUBMISSION DETAILS
Format: One (1) electronic copy (PDF) submitted via email.
Email To: [email protected]
Subject Line: "RFP AHG-2025-01 – Strategic Planning Proposal"
Deadline: 4:00 PM EST on September 6, 2025
Late submissions will not be considered.
X. CONTACT INFORMATION
Jeffrey F. Silka
City Administrator
City of Cumberland, Maryland
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (301) 759-2424
XI. RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
The City of Cumberland reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive irregularities, and award the contract in the best interest of the City.
