City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE
RELEASE FOR QUALIFICATIONS (“RFQ”)
FOR THE ENGAGEMENT OF SERVICES OF AN
Environmental/ Sustainability-FOCUSED
Consultant
Whereas, by letter dated April 23, 2024, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works has requested legislation authorizing the Release for Qualifications (“RFQ”) for the engagement of services of an environmental/sustainability-focused consultant to support the city’s sustainability initiatives; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon is committed to advancing green policy development, fostering community engagement, and ensuring effective strategic planning and risk management in alignment with sustainability goals; and
Whereas, the engagement of a consultant specializing in environmental and sustainability matters is deemed critical to achieving foundational objectives essential for enhancing the city's sustainability initiatives; and
Whereas, payment to the consultant based on deliverables rather than an hourly rate ensures accountability and incentivizes the achievement of tangible outcomes, reflecting best practices in procurement and the city's commitment to transparency and value for taxpayer dollars; and
Whereas, the creation of a list of environmental/sustainability-focused consultants is imperative to enhancing the city’s capacity to address pressing environmental challenges, promote sustainable development, and safeguard the well-being of current and future generations; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain, and enact:
Section 1. Authorization. The City of Mount Vernon hereby authorizes a Release for Qualifications (“RFQ”) to engage the services of an environmental/sustainability-focused consultant to support the city’s sustainability initiatives.
Section 2. Objectives. The objectives of the engagement shall include, but not be limited to:
• Strengthening Green Policy Development
• Creation of a Sustainability Advisory Board
• Data Collection and Analysis
• Strategic Planning
• Community Engagement
• Risk Management
• Budget Support
Section 3. Payment Structure. This section specifies that payment to the consultant will be based on deliverables rather than an hourly rate, ensuring accountability and incentivizing tangible outcomes.
Section 4. Procurement Process. This section outlines the procurement process for selecting the consultant, ensuring adherence to best practices and transparency. This legislation aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the engagement of an environmental/sustainability-focused consultant by the City of Mount Vernon, ensuring alignment with sustainability goals, transparency in procurement, and accountability for tangible outcomes.
Section 5. Deliverables. This section specifies the deliverables expected from the consultant, aligning with the city’s sustainability goals and objectives.
Section 6. Reporting and Evaluation. This section outlines requirements for reporting and evaluation to ensure the consultant's work aligns with the city's sustainability objectives and delivers value for taxpayer dollars.
Section 7. Duration and Renewal. This section addresses the duration of the consultant’s engagement and the possibility of renewal based on performance and need.
Section 8. Amendments. This section outlines procedures for amending the legislation if necessary.
Section 9. Severability. This section ensures that if any part of the legislation is deemed invalid, the remainder remains in effect.
Section 10. Effective Date. This section enacts the legislation and directs appropriate city officials to take necessary actions for implementation.
Section 11. Enactment. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the City Council.