Shelby County approves short-term extension to keep West Tennessee Regional Forensic Center operating while RFP is reissued

Shelby County commissioners approved a short-term contract extension to maintain operations at the West Tennessee Regional Forensic Center (WTRFC) after an initial request for proposals drew no qualified bidders.

The Shelby County Health Department reported that the April 2025 RFP for a vendor to operate WTRFC received no qualified responses and that respondents criticized the RFP language and term structure as barriers to bidding. The department recommended an extension to avoid service interruption while staff rewrite the solicitation.

Commission documents describe an immediate amendment covering an FY2025 overage of $1,250,000 and a short-term contract extension that together would obligate up to $3,810,779 in FY2025 and FY2026 general operating funds if needed to preserve continuity. Director Michelle Taylor told commissioners that, on average, the regional center handled roughly 2,732 accepted cases in FY2023, including 1,717 autopsies; forensic pathologists typically handle about 250 decedents annually, so staffing and continuity are critical.

Commissioners also heard that a later companion item would revise the RFP to a longer initial term (a 3-year initial contract with 2 one-year renewals) to address vendor concerns and attract bidders. Commissioners approved the short-term extension so the center can continue operations while procurement staff refine the RFP language and timing to encourage competition.

The resolution passed on roll call. Commissioners directed the health department to pursue the revised solicitation and report back on the procurement timeline.