Bluff seeks applicants for minute taker and maintenance RFP; council discusses contract terms and cultural sensitivity

The Bluff Town Council directed staff to begin recruitment for a part-time minute/note-taker and to issue a request for qualifications/proposals for general maintenance services.

Town manager Aaron Nelson said the minute-taker role will be part time, pay $18–$24 per hour, include ADA-compliance tasks, and allow hybrid or remote work to broaden the applicant pool. The council discussed forming a small hiring committee of council members to interview finalists and bring recommendations back to the council.

On maintenance services, staff outlined an RFP/RFQ covering facilities maintenance, mowing, potential road grading and cemetery interment assistance. The RFP will ask respondents to supply tool-and-equipment inventories, propose pricing (hourly, lump sum, or hybrid), and provide proof of insurance and workers’ compensation. Staff proposed a one-year agreement with options to renew for two additional years and emphasized the contract should not bind the town if a contractor cannot meet emergency-response timelines.

Cultural sensitivity and classification: Staff flagged potential cultural sensitivities if interment services involve Indigenous customs and suggested the RFP should allow respondents to note tasks they are uncomfortable performing. Council members agreed the job posting should encourage applicants to apply even if some duties raise cultural concerns and staff will provide alternative arrangements when appropriate. The RFP and job postings are to be circulated to solicit applicants; legal and accounting services RFPs were also noted with July submission windows.

Administrative details: The RFP will require contractors to show applicable insurance and proof of licensing for any work that legally requires a general contractor. Staff said they will share draft documents with council members for review before finalizing.