Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Procurement Analysis topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
IDA debates scope for independent benefit‑cost analyses as it plans consultant RFP
Summary
Board members discussed an RFP scope to hire a technical consultant to perform independent fiscal and economic impact analyses (cost‑benefit) for projects; the consultant would work for the IDA and applicants would pay fees, and the analyses would inform pilot decisions and UTEP amendments.
Members of the Town of Bethlehem IDA discussed on Nov. 26 a draft scope of work for an RFP to retain an independent consultant to perform fiscal and economic impact (cost‑benefit) analyses of applicant projects.
A consultant (identified in the discussion as an experienced practitioner) described tasks that would determine whether projects are "if‑not‑for" dependent on IDA assistance, estimate net new tax revenue with and without a pilot, and model direct, indirect and induced economic impacts for construction and ongoing operations. The consultant said the engagement would inform both standard and enhanced pilot analyses and provide metrics such as a benefits‑to‑costs ratio to compare projects over time.
Hedgman and board members said the consultant would be retained by the IDA but paid by applicants as part of application fees, and the scope is intended to guide an RFP rather than bind the board to a single approach. Members discussed data needs, whether to include jobs created or retained, and the option to request one or more firms be available on retainer for different project specializations.
The board did not take a formal vote on the RFP scope at the meeting; members asked staff to refine the draft and to consider the RFP and any connection to upcoming UTEP amendments in subsequent meetings.
