Dispatch Center Study Consultant Selection
Selection of consultant for $29,600+ dispatch study affects emergency response capabilities and raises questions on cost, benchmarking, and bias.
The Dispatch Center RFP was launched to obtain an independent study of emergency communications but all received bids exceeded the $30,000 budget. The Select Board reviewed a draft in March, advanced the solicitation through April and May, and in June opted against rescoping while considering a short window for new proposals including student options.
The Dispatch Center RFP Process began when the Select Board sought an independent evaluation of emergency communications and dispatching services.
On March 26, the Board reviewed a draft RFP focused on cost-effectiveness, technology opportunities such as NG911, and data analysis from the new CAD system, with public input emphasizing objective analytics over predetermined recommendations.
By April 23, the town was managing vendor questions and planning a pre-bid meeting to advance the solicitation.
On May 19, the Board reviewed five responses to the RFP and scheduled interviews with bidders including MRI and ADCOM.
The June 4 meeting addressed the fact that all bids exceeded the $30,000 budget, prompting discussion of options such as rescoping the study, reopening the process briefly for additional proposals including Dartmouth student-led work, or proceeding with existing bidders.
The Board decided against rescoping but agreed to explore a short window for new submissions, with a decision expected by the June 15 meeting.
On July 2 the Select Board approved hiring ADCOM Engineering LLC for phase one of the dispatch study at approximately $29,600 plus capped expenses. The motion followed staff recommendation of ADCOM for its regional experience and the value of its first three steps in informing a keep-versus-outsource decision; the board added instructions to require an in-person presentation, expense cap, and clarifications on cost assessment and RFI details.
Ashley to seek clarifications from ADCOM and report back at the next meeting; board may review Fitch phases as alternative.
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