Owner's Representative Services: Orono Public Library Expansion Project

Town of Orono
Invitation for Proposals
Owner's Representative Services
Orono Public Library Expansion Project
Issue Date: August 25, 2026
The Town of Orono is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide Owner's
Representative Services for the construction phase of the Orono Public Library Expansion
Project located at 39 Pine Street, Orono, Maine.
The project is being designed by Haley Ward Architects and Engineers and will expand the
existing library from approximately 6,600 square feet to approximately 15,507 square feet
through additions to the front and rear of the facility, along with limited renovations to
existing spaces. Current construction costs are estimated at approximately $5.5 million,
exclusive of project contingencies, professional services, and potential bid alternates. The
Town has established an overall project budget of up to $8.6 million, which includes design
and engineering services, construction, contingencies, furnishings and equipment, owner
costs, and other project-related expenses. The final scope of construction work will be
determined following the receipt and evaluation of construction bids and consideration of
project alternates.
Construction bidding is anticipated to occur during Fall 2026, with construction expected
to begin shortly thereafter.
The selected Owner's Representative will serve as an independent advisor to the Town
during construction and project closeout.
Scope of Services
The selected firm will provide advisory support to Town staff throughout the construction
phase of the project. Anticipated services include:
* Budget and contingency monitoring
* Review of contractor pay applications
* Evaluation of change orders and recommendations

* Schedule and progress monitoring
* Attendance at construction meetings
* Site visits and construction observations
* Risk identification and issue resolution support
* Project reporting to Town staff
* Construction closeout assistance
The Owner's Representative shall serve solely in an advisory capacity to the Town. The
Owner's Representative shall not have authority to direct the contractor, modify contract
requirements, approve changes, or otherwise act on behalf of the Town. Communications
with Haley Ward, the contractor, or other project participants shall occur through the Town
unless specifically authorized by the Town Manager or designee.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include:
1. Cover letter
2. Firm qualifications and relevant experience with municipal, public, or library
construction projects
3. Identification of the proposed project lead and key personnel
4. Description of the firm's proposed approach to providing Owner's Representative
services
5. Three professional references
6. Fee proposal
7. Statement of availability and capacity to perform the work
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated using a best-value approach based on the following criteria:
* Qualifications and Relevant Experience: 35%
* Interview: 25%
* Cost Proposal: 20%
* References: 10%
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* Availability and Capacity: 10%
Responsive firms may be invited to participate in an interview as part of the evaluation
process.
Schedule
* August 25, 2026: Invitation for Proposals Issued
* September 15, 2026, 12:00 Noon: Proposals Due
* September 21 through October 8, 2026: Interviews May Be Conducted
Following evaluation of proposals and interviews, a selection committee will recommend a
preferred firm to the Town Manager. The Town Manager will then bring a recommendation
forward for Town Council consideration. Any resulting contract shall be subject to Town
Council approval.
Additional Information
The following documents are attached for reference:
* Current project design drawings
* Construction bid documents (sent separately and will be available no later than
August 28, 2026)
* Project schedule prepared by Haley Ward Architects and Engineers
The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive minor irregularities, request
additional information from proposers, and accept the proposal determined to be in the
best interests of the Town.
Questions must be submitted by email to Clint Deschene, Town Manager and Laurie
Carpenter Library Director. cdeschene@orono.org and lcarpenter@orono.org
Proposals shall be submitted electronically to:
Clint Deschene
Town Manager
Town of Orono
cdeschene@orono.org
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