RFP: PARATRANSIT OPERATION SERVICES

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
Paratransit Operations Services
July 6, 2026
Project #5041
City of Minot
10 3rd Avenue SW
Minot, ND 58701
701.857.4140
701.857.4148

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
Paratransit Operations Services
Project No.: 5041
Issue Date: July 6, 2026
Issuing Agency
City of Minot
10 3rd Avenue SW
Minot, ND 58701
Phone: 701-857-4140
1. Notice of Request for Proposals
Notice is hereby given that proposals will be received by the City of Minot for performing all
work necessary in accordance with the Scope of Work specified herein. Please carefully read
and follow the instructions provided. Proposers are responsible for ensuring that their proposal
documentation is complete and received by the City of Minot on or before the closing deadline.
The City of Minot is not liable for any costs incurred by proposers in the preparation or
submission of proposals.
2. Proposal Submission
Proposals must be received no later than:
August 10, 2026 - 11:00 AM Central Standard Time (CST)

Submit proposals to:
City of Minot
Attn: City Clerk
10 3rd Avenue SE
Minot, ND 58701
Proposals shall be clearly marked:
"Project #5041 Paratransit Operations Services"
Electronic, faxed, or late submissions will not be accepted.
3. Point of Contact
All communications regarding this RFP shall be directed to:
Brian Horinka
Transportation Superintendent
Phone: 701-857-4149
Email: brian.horinka@minotnd.gov
4. Proposer Submittal Checklist
Proposals must include the following items:
* Cover Letter and Bidder Information
* Signed Acceptance of Addenda (If needed)
* Bid Proposal Form (Appendix H)
* Buy America Certification (Appendix A)
* Debarment and Suspension Certification (Appendix B)
* Lobbying Certification (Appendix C)
* Drug-Free Workplace Act Certification (Appendix D)
* Acceptance of Federal Clauses (Appendix E)
* Reference(s) Release (Appendix I)
* SAM.Gov Registration Confirmation
Failure to submit all required items may result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive.
701.857.4140
701.857.4148

5. General Information
5.1 Purpose and Basis of Award
The City of Minot invites proposals from qualified and experienced contractors to manage and
operate the Minot City Transit ADA-compliant, demand-response paratransit services to comply
with our ADA Paratransit Plan and as described in this RFP. The successful contractor chosen to
manage and operate the services will do so for an initial term of two (2) years beginning with the
acceptance of an award of contract. The anticipated start date is January 4, 2027. After the initial
term of two (2) years, at the option of the City of Minot and mutual agreement with the
Contractor, there may be renewal options available for up to four (4) successive one (1) year
renewal periods. At the written request of the Contractor no later than June 30th of the year prior
to the renewal period, the City of Minot may consider negotiating price adjustments for the
renewal period. Price must remain firm for the initial 2-year term.
Fares collected by the Contractor will be retained by the Contractor. Expected fare revenue will
be income for the Contractor and should be taken into consideration when developing the
price proposal.
Current fare is $3.00 per ride. Fares per ride cannot exceed twice the cost of a fixed route cash
ride per Federal Transit Administration. Current fixed route cash fare is $1.50.
Copies of the Request for Proposal (RFP) document may be obtained from:
Minot City Transit
C/O Brian Horinka
Transportation Superintendent
1025 31st St SE
Minot, ND 58701
P: (701) 857-4148
E: brian.horinka@minotnd.gov
Proposals shall contain information that is relevant and demonstrates the Proposer's capabilities
to successfully provide ADA-compliant, demand-response paratransit services and undertake the
project.
Proposers are responsible for meeting all terms and conditions described in the Scope of Work
and in this Request for Proposal (RFP). Proposers should provide this information in the order
provided below. For a proposal to be accepted as responsive, it must fully describe how the
Proposer proposes to meet all of the terms and conditions described in the Scope of Work, as
well as include the following specific terms:
a) Description of Firm or Organization's Capabilities and Experience.
Proposals shall include a description of the organization or firm, including its legal status,
authority, and/or licenses to operate in the state of North Dakota. The description shall
include the major business functions, history, and organizational structure, including the
location of the firm's headquarters and major offices, and the management organization

with names and locations of the managing director(s) for this project. The description
shall include a list of current and past clients for which similar transit services have been
provided. Such client list shall include references, including the client organization name,
address, contact person, telephone number, number of vehicles operated for the client,
etc. The Proposer's responsibilities for the client (i.e. vehicle operations, vehicle
maintenance, scheduling/dispatching, etc.) and the years that service was provided should
also be identified. A reference release must be submitted with the proposal, or the
proposal may be deemed non-responsive.
b) Experience with Transit Operations.
Contractor shall possess at a minimum three (3) years of demonstrated success providing
ADA paratransit services. Contractor shall submit years of experience; locations;
references (inclusive of titles and contact information) to verify times and locations, as
well as to assess the quality of prior service.
c) Description of the Firm's Management Personnel to Be Assigned to the Project.
Proposals shall include a description of the experience and qualifications of the
supervisory personnel assigned to manage the project successfully, detailing the positions
and the number of employees in each position. In addition, the proposal shall identify by
name and describe the experience and qualifications of the individual assigned locally to
manage and assist in managing the project.
d) Phase-In of Service
The proposer will describe in detail, with dates or timelines, how the firm will
accomplish the transition of the service from one operator to the next.
e) Track Record with Safe Transit Operations.
Proposals shall include a description of the safety history of the Proposer with respect to
the provision of contracted bus transit services.
f) Industry Certifications. Proposals shall include a description of any relevant transit
industry certifications given to the Proposer's firm or key personnel identified for this
project.
g) Description of the Proposed Financial, Management, and Technical Resources.
Proposals shall include a description of the firm or organization's financial resources and
history of financial stability. Proposer shall demonstrate financial stability by providing
financial statements and/or audits, including an income statement and balance sheet,
supplemented if necessary, by evidence of credit line or other resources to demonstrate
financial capacity to undertake the project successfully. In addition, the proposal shall
include a description of its management plan indicating how it proposes to successfully
manage the project, including technical resources. Proposals shall also include a
description of the required insurance coverage to be provided, as described elsewhere in
this request for proposal. Such description shall include the name of the insurer, A.M.
Best rating, and limits of insurance.
h) Description of the Proposed Staffing, Training, Start-up, and Implementation Plan.
The Proposer shall submit a staffing plan detailing how it proposes to locate and hire
vehicle operators, mechanics, and other non-supervisory personnel to carry out the
project successfully. The staffing plan shall identify and describe the number of vehicle
operators, mechanics, dispatchers, and any other personnel necessary to carry out the
project. The Proposer shall submit a training plan to be used to ensure that the employees

in each of the positions are properly trained in the performance of their duties with
emphasis on safety, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, and good
customer service. A brief description of the proposed training content and schedule shall
be included. In addition, the Proposer shall address refresher training, including
frequency and content. The proposal shall also include an overall project schedule,
including milestones and proposed completion dates. This project schedule shall identify
and describe the key milestones and activities required to ensure progress toward
successful start-up and ongoing implementation of the project.
i) Drug and Alcohol Testing Since the successful Contractor would be a contractor to
Minot City Transit, the Contractor agrees to maintain a drug and alcohol testing program
that complies with 49 C.F.R. Part 655, produce any documentation necessary to establish
its compliance with Part 655, and permit any authorized representative of the United
States Department of Transportation or its operating administrations, relevant North
Dakota State agencies, and the City of Minot to inspect the facilities and records
associated with the implementation of the drug and alcohol testing program as required
under 49 C.F.R. Part 655 and review the testing process and test results. Contractor shall
conduct random drug and alcohol tests at the annual testing rates required by the Federal
Transit Administration.
j) Additional Criteria
Contractor shall provide business/dispatch location to include address, phone system,
specify number of phone lines and hours of operation. Contractor shall comply with
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) drug and alcohol testing protocol. Contractor shall
train and refresher train (at minimum annually) applicable employees. Contractor shall
(as noted above) ensure trips are within the "corridor" of fixed route services. Contractor
shall provide uniform minimum driver standards including a criminal records check and
motor vehicle records check. Provide documentation of driver training. Provide a list of
wheelchair accessible vehicles used to operate ADA paratransit services.
The Contractor will take all calls for service from eligible clients and shall schedule these
trips for maximum efficiency and quality of service. Requests for service must be taken
from days prior to the date of requested trip, and up to 4:00 p.m. the day before the
requested trip. Calls for service shall be taken Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. An answering machine or service must be enabled to take any calls that are
received during nonbusiness hours, and these calls must be responded to during the next
business day succeeding the message. Trip reservations will be made on Sundays and
Holidays.
A dispatcher shall be on duty a minimum of 8:00 am to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, or
when a vehicle is in service during this time period. For purpose of this specification, all
days the Minot City Transit fixed route service operates constitutes a business day.
Sufficient phone lines must be available in order to answer calls in a timely manner. Only
certified clients and passenger aides shall be transported for ADA Paratransit.
Companions are permitted on a space available basis. ADA and nonADA passengers
may use the same bus, with a space priority given to ADA Paratransit passengers. Minot
City Transit staff shall supply updated certified client listings.
The Contractor shall provide ADA approved buses.

5.2 Agency Background
Minot City Transit is a vital public transportation agency dedicated to providing accessible and
reliable transit services to the residents of Minot, North Dakota. Established in 1974, the agency
has continuously evolved to meet the growing needs of a diverse population, particularly
focusing on the mobility of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.
The mission of Minot City Transit is to enhance the quality of life in the community by ensuring
that all residents have access to essential services, employment opportunities, and recreational
activities through efficient transportation solutions. The agency operates a comprehensive
paratransit service designed to accommodate those who may not be able to utilize traditional
fixed-route buses due to mobility challenges.
Minot City Transit is committed to maintaining a safe, reliable, and user-friendly transit system.
With a fleet of well-maintained vehicles equipped to serve individuals with varying needs, the
agency emphasizes a customer-centric approach, prioritizing the dignity and independence of all
riders.
Over the years, Minot City Transit has embraced innovative practices and technology to improve
service delivery and enhance operational efficiency. The agency actively collaborates with local
organizations, government entities, and community stakeholders to ensure that transportation
barriers are minimized, and service gaps are identified and addressed.
As an agency fully committed to the principles of accessibility and inclusivity, Minot City
Transit is seeking partnerships through this Request for Proposal (RFP) for paratransit services to
further strengthen its capacity to serve the community effectively. The goal is to provide
outstanding transportation services that meet the unique needs of individuals requiring
assistance, thereby ensuring that all members of the community can partake fully in daily life.
Minot City Transit's contracted Para-Transit Services is currently being provided by Souris
Basin Transportation. This service contract is currently scheduled to end December 31, 2026.
Souris Basin Transportation currently uses Ecolane software to schedule trips. Minot City
Transit does prefer to continue the use of Ecolane software , but we are open to discussion.
6. Project Overview
The City of Minot is seeking a contract for the Management and Operations of Minot City
Transit's ADA Paratransit Services. Services are anticipated to begin on January 4, 2027. The
successful proposing company (herein after referred to as "Contractor") will be responsible for
all aspects of management and operations with the exception of certification of ADA Paratransit
Eligibility.

7. Addenda, Requests for Modification or Clarification,
Protest Procedures
7.1 Addenda
In the event that it becomes necessary to revise any part of this RFP, or if additional information
is necessary to enable the Proposer to make an adequate interpretation of the provisions of this
RFP, a written addendum to the RFP will be provided to each prospective proposer by mail or e-
mail. Receipt of all addenda must be acknowledged by each prospective proposer as requested
on the Bid Proposal Form; acknowledgments for email receipt of addenda will be done by the
recipient sending an email acknowledgment. Oral instructions by City of Minot representatives
will be produced in writing and sent to all prospective proposers.
7.2 Request for Modification or Clarification
Requests for clarification or modification of this RFP must be in writing. The City of
Minot must receive any such written request or inquiry by close of business July 20,
2026.
Any request or inquiry must be accompanied by all relevant information supporting the
request for modification, interpretation, clarification, or amendment of this solicitation.
Inquiries about Minot City Transit services and the Request for Proposal must be directed
to:
Brian Horinka
Transportation Superintendent
Minot City Transit
1025 31st St SE
Minot, ND 58701
brian.horinka@minotnd.gov
Only the Transportation Superintendent may accept or answer a written request or inquiry
related to this RFP during the procurement process.
7.3 Bid Protest Procedures
a) General: Protests will be accepted from prospective bidders or offerors whose
direct economic interest would be affected by the award of a contract or by failure
to award a contract. The City of Minot Transportation Superintendent and Minot
City Council will consider all protests or objections filed in a timely manner
regarding the award of a contract, whether submitted before or after the award.
All protests shall be in writing and shall be supported by sufficient information to
enable the protest to be considered. A protest will not be considered if it is
insufficiently supported or it is not received within the time limits specified

herein. Protest submissions should be concise, logically arranged, and clearly
state the ground for the protest. Protests must include at least the following
information:
* The name and address of the protesting party and its relationship to the
procurement sufficient to establish the protest is being filed by an
interested party;
* Identity of contact person for protest, including name, title, address,
telephone, fax, and email address. If the contact point is a third party
representing the protestor, the same information must be provided, plus a
statement defining the relationship between the Protestor and the third
party.
* Identification of the Procurement;
* A description of the nature of the protest, referencing the portion(s) of
the solicitation involved.
* Identification of the provision(s) of any law, regulation, or other
governance upon which the protest is based.
* A complete discussion of the basis for the protest, including all
supporting facts, documents, or data.
* A statement of the specific relief requested.
* A notarized affirmation by the Protestor (if an individual) or by an
owner or officer of the protestor (if not an individual) as to the truth and
accuracy of the statements made in the protest submittal.
Protests should be sent via certified mail through the U.S. Postal Service to:
City of Minot
Brian Horinka, Transportation Superintendent
1025 31st St. SE
Minot, ND 58701
Protests shall be submitted in accordance with the requirements of this section and
any directions included in the solicitation. The protest to the City of Minot must be
complete and contain all the issues that the protestor believes relevant. The City
of Minot will respond to each substantive issue raised in the protest. Failure to
include an issue in the protest to the City of Minot will preclude raising the issue
to FTA if the protest is appealed to that agency. Following an adverse decision by
the City of Minot, the Protestor may file a protest with FTA under certain limited
circumstances listed in paragraph 6.0.
On occasion, when considered appropriate by the City of Minot Transportation
Superintendent and the Minot City Council, an informal conference on the merits
of the protest with all interested parties may be held.
b) Protests Before Award: A protest related to the technical scope or specification,
terms, conditions, or form of a solicitation must be received no later than ten

(10) working days prior to the date established for the opening of bids or receipt of
proposals; if the protest addresses an amendment to the solicitation, it must be received
no later than ten (10) working days prior to the date established for opening bids or
receipt of proposals or five (5) working days after the date of issuance of the amendment,
whichever is later; in no event, however, may a protest of this nature be submitted after
bids or proposals are received. The protest must conform in all respects to the
requirements set forth in Section A above. Upon receipt of such a protest, the City of
Minot shall notify all prospective procurement bidders and other known interested parties
of the receipt and nature of the protest and shall post a notice of the protest on the City of
Minot web page. Unless the City of Minot determines that delay will be prejudicial to the
interest of The City of Minot or that the protest patently lacks substantial merit, the
solicitation process will be extended pending resolution of the protest. Protests will be
considered and either denied or sustained, in part or in whole, by The City of Minot in
writing. A written decision specifying the grounds for sustaining all or part of or denying
the protest will be transmitted to the protestor prior to the receipt of bids or proposals in a
manner that provides verification of receipt. A notice of the decision shall be provided to
all parties given notice of the protest and posted to The City of Minot's procurement web
page. Should the protest be upheld in whole or in substantial part, the Minot City Council
may either (1) amend the solicitation to correct the document or process accordingly; or
(2) cancel the solicitation in its entirety. If the solicitation is amended, the time for receipt
of bids or proposals shall be equitably extended to permit all participants to revise their
bids or proposals to reflect the decision. If the protest is denied, the solicitation shall
proceed as if the protest had not been filed, unless the protester pursues its protest with
the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) as defined below, or otherwise appeals the
decision of The City of Minot, as defined below. Protests received by The City of Minot
after the time periods specified above shall be considered untimely and may be denied on
that basis unless The City of Minot concludes that the issue(s) raised by the protest
involves substantial prejudice to the integrity of the procurement process.
c) Pre-Award Phase: When a protest against the making of an award is received after
receipt of bids or proposals but prior to award, close of business September 7, 2026, the
Minot City Transit Transportation Superintendent and the Minot City Council may
determine to withhold the award pending disposition of the protest. The City of Minot
will provide a written response to each material issue raised in the written protest. Notice
of a protest as well as The City of Minot's response, will be provided to
bidders/proposers who responded to the solicitation and are in line for the award of a
contract.
Where a written protest against the making of an award is received by the time specified
(close of business September 7, 2026), an award will not be made unless The City of
Minot determines that:
* The items to be procured are urgently required;
* Delivery or performance will be unduly delayed by failure to make award promptly;
* Failure to make an award will otherwise cause undue harm to The City of Minot or
the Federal Government.