Professional Services: Planning and Zoning Board Counsel

The City of East Orange, New Jersey, through its Division of Procurement, is soliciting Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) from highly experienced legal professionals and firms to serve as Planning Board Attorney and/or Zoning Board of Adjustment Attorney. This critical role involves providing specialized legal support, advice, and representation to both the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The comprehensive scope of work encompasses mandatory attendance at all regular and special board meetings, diligent preparation for and vigorous defense against litigation stemming from board decisions or official duties under the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) and Local Redevelopment Housing Law. Further responsibilities include conducting legal research, offering general counsel on various special matters, drafting essential legal documents such as resolutions, legislation, deeds, covenants, and easements, and proactively responding to routine inquiries from city staff and board members. The objective is to secure robust legal expertise that ensures the boards operate within legal frameworks and are effectively represented in all proceedings. Prospective contractors must demonstrate exceptional qualifications, including a deep core competency and proven experience with the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) and Housing and Redevelopment Law. Essential evaluation criteria emphasize significant experience in the specific area of land use law practice, a strong background in litigation, and a demonstrated ability to accurately interpret complex regulations and ordinances. While specific licenses like NJ Public Works Contractor Registration are not detailed for this professional service, compliance with N.J.S.A. 10:5-33 et seq. Affirmative Action, N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq., N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq. (Contract Compliance and Equal Employment Opportunities in Public Contracts), and N.J.S.A. 52:25-24.2 (Disclosure of Ownership) is mandatory for all professional service contractors. Furthermore, familiarity with the geographical area of East Orange and sufficient availability of key staff are key considerations. There are no mandatory pre-bid meetings or site visits specified in the RFQ document. Qualification Proposals are due by Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. prevailing time. Submissions must be delivered or mailed to the City of East Orange, Division of Procurement, First Floor, 44 City Hall Plaza, East Orange, New Jersey 07018. Envelopes must be distinctly marked "PLANNING BOARD ATTORNEY AND/OR ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ATTORNEY" and include the bidder's name. A non-refundable fee of $25.00 for the RFP packet is applicable if obtained physically from the Division of Procurement, payable to the City of East Orange. All proposals are required to remain firm and valid for a period of sixty (60) days following the submission date. No specific bid security or performance bonds are mentioned as a requirement for the proposal submission itself, though insurance provisions for successful contractors are outlined. For any questions regarding the proposal process, interested parties should contact Racquel C Ferguson, Q.P.A., Purchasing Agent, at (973) 266-5162 or via email at lisa.jackson@eastorange-nj.gov. UNLOCK