Board awards strategic planning contract to OmniTech, administration to issue facilities RFP

The Midland Public Schools Board of Education voted Aug. 18 to award a strategic planning contract to OmniTech of Midland, Michigan, at a base price of $43,750, with additional services beyond 250 hours billed at $175 per hour, administration recommended. Penny (board/administration representative) described the selection process, saying the district received 10 proposals and that references for OmniTech included local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Midland, Bay-Arenac ISD, Midland County ESA, Midland Business Alliance and the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance. She said the references were “overwhelmingly favorable” and that OmniTech’s process is “sophisticated and grounded in research, but it is also practical, positive, and swift.” A board member identified as Anne said she reviewed the top four proposals and could not support the OmniTech recommendation, citing that OmniTech’s proposal did not show scoring evidence of K‑12 experience comparable to Midland Public Schools and that she would have liked references from a public school district similar to Midland. Motion to approve the contract was made by Treasurer Lauterbach and supported by Member Blasey; the motion carried 4‑1. Administration said operating funds will pay for the work. Separately, the board discussed reopening the facilities-assessment work and issuing a request for proposals to reassess district buildings and produce updated cost estimates. Administration stated it plans to issue that RFP so the facilities assessment can be merged into the strategic planning process at the appropriate time. The board did not record a separate formal vote to issue the facilities RFP during the meeting. Board discussion referenced OmniTech’s prior local work, including involvement with community task forces, and emphasized the district’s desire for a firm that can connect with local stakeholders. One board member said local experience was an important factor because of the district’s recent unsuccessful bond vote and the need to better engage the community. The board approved the OmniTech recommendation despite the dissenting vote; administration will proceed with contracting and with the planned facilities RFP.