26-150 Public Engagement Consultant Services

Background
Harford County is seeking a qualified consultant to develop and execute a robust, inclusive, and innovative public engagement strategy to support the update of the County's Comprehensive Plan. This plan must meet the requirements of the Maryland Land Use Article, incorporating the eight Smart Growth principles adopted in 2025. The goal of this contract is to focus on community outreach efforts that ensure equitable participation, transparency, and meaningful engagement of residents across all demographics and geographic areas of the County.

Work Details
The consultant will be responsible for facilitating broad public input through discussions with the Planning Advisory Board (PAB), Community Advisory Boards (CABs), and the general public. Key deliverables include:

- Developing a public participation plan that incorporates in-person sessions, online public solicitation, and questionnaires.
- Promoting equity by reaching underserved populations.
- Leveraging technology for engagement.
- Providing monthly progress reports.
- Designing outreach plans focusing on housing, preservation, transportation, water resources, economic development, and healthy communities.
- Conducting public visioning workshops in each councilmanic district.
- Implementing online surveys.
- Ensuring ADA compliance.
- Tracking equity indicators.
- Submitting a final report summarizing outreach efforts and recommendations.

Period of Performance
The contract term will commence upon notice to proceed and is expected to be completed by October 2026.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed within Harford County, Maryland.

Bidder Requirements
Proposers must comply with Maryland's Commercial Non-Discrimination Policy. They should submit an affidavit regarding bribery convictions and debarment status. Proposals must include evidence of registration to do business in Maryland and compliance with tax obligations. Additionally, proposers are encouraged to consider minority, disadvantaged, women-owned, small, and veteran-owned business enterprises.