Richland County moves to issue RFP for permitting software to modernize building department

Richland County commissioners voted April 9 to release a request for proposals for permitting software aimed at modernizing the building department and expanding online services.

Presenter Steve — who drafted the RFP with county staff — said the county will advertise the solicitation on April 13, hold a pre-proposal meeting, accept proposals due the week of May 7, shortlist three vendors for interviews and demonstrations, and return to the board on May 19 with a recommended award. The proposed contract term is an initial three years with an option to renew after two more years.

"Everything is subscription based these days," Steve said, explaining that the county is seeking a web-based, scalable system to streamline workflows and offset staff shortages. He told commissioners the county has not selected a contractor and that the village and ODOT would lead contracting for the previously discussed bridge project.

Commissioner (participant) Carl asked whether staffing reductions would help pay for the software. Steve said attrition has left several positions unfilled (including a building official, a full-time clerk and a part-time clerk) and that some costs would be managed through those unfilled roles.

The board approved a motion to release the RFP and directed staff to post the supplemental instructions and schedule the pre-proposal meeting. Staff said the RFP packet will be posted on the county website and a PDF copy provided to interested parties.