Professional Appraisal Services to Defend 2022 State Tax Court Appeals

The Borough of Avon-By-The-Sea sought proposals and qualifications for Professional Appraisal services to defend State Tax Court Appeals, procured under the Fair and Open Process (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5 et seq.) for a one-year contract pertaining to 2022 Municipal Professional Services. The scope of work for the selected appraiser includes comprehensive engagement in State Tax Court Appeals, specifically requiring attendance at settlement conferences, meticulous preparation of full trial-ready Appraisal reports, and providing expert testimony as needed. This critical service is aimed at protecting the Borough's interests in property valuation disputes and ensuring accurate tax assessments. Prospective contractors were required to demonstrate substantial qualifications, submitting a detailed statement of qualifications, proof of all applicable professional licenses, and a record of experience in providing similar professional services to public entities. Evaluation criteria prioritized the firm's reputation, knowledge, and experience, particularly with Avon-By-The-Sea’s Commission Form of Government and the specific subject matter. Additionally, the contractor's availability to attend required meetings or court proceedings, along with their capacity for timely service delivery supported by adequate staffing and technical resources, was crucial. Mandatory compliance included Affirmative Action (N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq.), PL 2004, C.1, NJ Election Law N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.27 concerning campaign funding limits, Chapter 33 of PL 1977 for Stockholder Disclosure, and N.J.S.A 52:32-44 requiring a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate. No mandatory pre-bid meetings or site visits were stipulated. Two hard copies of the proposals were required to be submitted in sealed envelopes, clearly marked with the contract title, and addressed to Tim Anfuso, Tax Assessor, at 301 Main Street, Avon-By-The-Sea, NJ 07717. The definitive submission deadline was 12 Noon on Thursday, August 18, 2022, with late proposals strictly returned unopened. Required submission documents included a Professional Service Proposal, Qualifications and Costs Submission Form, a signed and notarized Affidavit of Non-Collusion, a signed Stockholder Disclosure Certification, a Professional Service Entity Information Form, a copy of the Applicant and Sub-Applicant Business Registration Certificate, an Affirmative Action Certification or Report, a W-9 form, a Proposed Form of Contract, and Exhibits A and B covering Mandatory Equal Opportunity and ADA Language. While the Borough Administrator was designated to receive written reports of ambiguities, all formal proposals were directed to the Tax Assessor.