NS26-60 Utah Inland Port Authority - Bond & Disclosure Counsel Services

Background
The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) was established in 2018 by the Utah State Legislature to enhance the state's global trade capabilities and generate economic benefits through the development of logistics infrastructure across multiple jurisdictions.

This RFP seeks proposals from firms to provide Bond Counsel services, with the intent to award a contract under UIPA's procurement policy. The awarded contract will also be available for adoption by any Public Infrastructure District (PID) within a UIPA project area.

Work Details
The selected Bond Counsel will support the issuance of public offering and/or private placement of tax differential revenue bonds. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing necessary documents for bond authorization, issuance, sale, and delivery;
- Assisting with bond issuance and sale;
- Issuing legal opinions on bond legality and validity;
- Planning and structuring bond issues;
- Ensuring tax-exempt status;
- Preparing Preliminary Official Statements, Official Statements, and Notices of Sale;
- Coordinating with financial advisors;
- Attending closing details;
- Providing post-issuance compliance advice;
- Attending all necessary meetings.

The proposal must include an executive summary, firm qualifications, key personnel details, approach to managing bond issuance, references from similar projects, conflict of interest disclosures, proof of insurance, and a separate cost proposal.

Period of Performance
The contract is intended for an initial term of three (3) years with the possibility of two (2) one-year extensions at UIPA's discretion.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed primarily in Utah as required by UIPA.

Bidder Requirements
Offerors must be attorneys or law firms with at least ten years of experience in public finance. They must provide proof of professional liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $5 million. Offerors must also confirm that their attorneys are members in good standing of the Utah State Bar or another state bar and not subject to disciplinary action. Additionally, they must disclose any conflicts of interest related to UIPA.