RFP: Consulting Services for Town Plan Rewrite

Background
The Town of Windsor, Vermont is seeking proposals from qualified planning consultants to assist in the comprehensive rewrite of the Town Plan. This initiative is supported by a Municipal Planning Grant from the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development, aimed at addressing the critical shortage of diverse and affordable housing options in Windsor. The project seeks to modernize outdated zoning regulations and land use policies to align with state housing targets, thereby ensuring that residents of all ages and incomes can find suitable homes in the community.

Work Details
The consultant will be responsible for:
- Reviewing the existing Town Plan and relevant municipal or regional documents.
- Facilitating community engagement through public meetings and surveys.
- Leading goal-setting exercises with the Planning Commission.
- Drafting a new Town Plan that includes all required elements under 24 V.S.A. § 4382.
- Integrating priorities such as housing, economic development, public utilities, climate resilience, and land stewardship.
- Ensuring compliance with statutory and regional planning requirements.
- Presenting drafts and the final plan to the Planning Commission and Selectboard.
- Preparing relevant maps and data visuals.

Deliverables include a project work plan, draft chapters, a complete draft Town Plan for review, a final Town Plan ready for adoption along with supporting maps and appendices, and a summary of community engagement activities.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence with consultant selection in March 2026, followed by project kickoff in April 2026. A mid-project report is due in February 2027, with a draft plan submission in August 2027. The final plan is expected to be ready for adoption by October 2027. All funds must be spent by December 31, 2027, with final reports submitted by January 31, 2028.

Place of Performance
The project will be conducted within the entire Town of Windsor, Vermont, focusing on its designated Downtown center and surrounding planned growth areas.

Bidder Requirements
Consultants must demonstrate experience in planning and public engagement as well as familiarity with Vermont's planning framework and statutory requirements including Act 181 and HOME Act compliance. Proposals should include a cover letter, project understanding and approach, relevant experience and qualifications, examples of similar work completed previously, and a proposed itemized budget.