Bond Programs Advisory and Banking Services RFP

Background
The State of Oregon, through the Department of Administrative Services, State Procurement Services (DAS SPS), is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for Bond Programs Advisory and Banking Services. The goal is to engage firms that can provide advisory services related to various bond programs managed by the Chief Financial Office, Capital Finance and Planning Section. These programs include general obligation bonds, Lottery Revenue Bonds, Certificates of Participation, and Tax Anticipation Notes. The selected firms will assist in ensuring compliance with municipal securities market regulations and help the state manage its debt effectively.

Work Details
The services required under this contract include:

1. **Municipal Advisor**: Provide advice on structuring, marketing, and issuance of debt for the Bond Programs to achieve the lowest financing costs. This includes preparing credit rating materials and managing relationships with investors.

2. **Bond Counsel with Rebate Calculation**: Offer legal and tax advice related to bond issuance and administration, ensuring compliance with laws governing municipal securities. This includes performing arbitrage rebate calculations.

3. **Trustee Services**: Provide accounting, notice, and trustee services for the Certificates of Participation program and Lottery Revenue Bonds program. Responsibilities include transitioning existing bank accounts from current providers and managing funds according to trust agreements.

Period of Performance
The initial term of the contract is anticipated to be between 2 to 4 years, with options for renewal based on performance and needs.

Place of Performance
The services will primarily be performed in Salem, Oregon, where the Department of Administrative Services is located.

Bidder Requirements
Proposers must meet specific qualifications depending on the service category they are applying for:
- **Municipal Advisor**: Must be registered as a Municipal Advisor with the SEC and MSRB; at least 5 years of relevant experience.
- **Bond Counsel**: Must be a nationally recognized firm in public finance law; at least 5 years of experience; must provide arbitrage rebate computation capabilities.
- **Trustee**: Must be a bank or trust company authorized under Oregon law with a minimum capital surplus of $75 million and experience managing over $1 billion in municipal debt securities.