REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
Management Services for Union Negotiations
1. Introduction
The Town of Houlton is seeking proposals from qualified firms or individuals to provide professional management services to support the Town during ongoing union negotiations. The Town intends to secure expert guidance to ensure fair, efficient, and consistent bargaining processes in accordance with all applicable laws and policies.
2. Scope of Services
The selected consultant will be expected to provide services that include, but are not limited to:
- Reviewing existing collective bargaining agreements (5).
- Developing negotiation strategies, proposals, and recommended language.
- Advising Town administration and elected officials throughout the negotiation process.
- Participating in negotiation sessions with union representatives.
- Preparing written updates, summaries, or reports as requested.
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local labor laws.
- Providing guidance on best practices and potential financial or operational impacts of proposed contract changes.
3. Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include the following:
- Cover Letter
- Introduction of the consultant/firm
- Contact information
- Qualifications and Experience
- Relevant experience with municipal or public-sector labor negotiations
- Resumes of key personnel
- Approach and Methodology
- Description of how the consultant will support the Town
- Proposed timeline and availability
- Cost Proposal
- Hourly rates, flat fees, or project-based fees
- Estimated total cost or cost structure
- Any additional expenses
- References
- At least three (3) references from similar work
4. Submission Instructions
Proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Union Negotiations Proposal” by mail to:
Personnel Director
21 Water St.
Houlton, ME 04730
or electronically to:
town.clerk@houlton-maine.com
All proposals must be received by 10:00 AM on December 23, 2025
Late submissions may not be considered.
5. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Relevant experience and expertise
- Quality and clarity of the proposed approach
- Cost effectiveness
- Understanding of municipal labor negotiations
- References and past performance
The Town reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive informalities, and to select the proposal that is deemed to be in the best interest of the Town.
6. Contract Term
The selected consultant will begin work upon award of the contract and will continue until negotiations are completed or until otherwise terminated by the Town.