Qualifications-Based Selection for a Comprehensive Stormwater and Utility Rate Study (FY27)

TOWN OF CARRBORO
NORTH CAROLINA
TITLE: Qualifications-Based Selection for a Comprehensive Stormwater and Utility Rate Study (FY27)
OVERVIEW: The Town of Carrboro is seeking qualified professional engineering firms to submit sealed
Statements of Qualifications for a comprehensive evaluation of its Stormwater Utility. The selected firm
will provide analysis and implementation support for a stormwater utility fee structure that is fair,
equitable, legally defensible, and publicly acceptable.
In order to develop an adequate understanding of needed revenue, emphasis should focus on a deep
understanding of current and legacy municipal stormwater infrastructure, with particular attention to
system deficiencies and areas that lack conveyance connection. The study should also evaluate funding
needs that encourage and motivate management of stormwater at points of generation.
ISSUING DEPARTMENT: Public Works
ISSUING DIVISION: Stormwater Division
TOWN CONTACT: Dylan Kirk
Stormwater Manager
dkirk@carrboronc.gov
INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTALS:
Optional |Virtual Pre-Proposal Conference: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 @ 11:00 AM
Please email the Town Contact above to RSVP or request accommodation. A Microsoft Teams Meeting
link will be provided to join.
Sealed Statement of Qualifications must be received no later than 2:00 P.M. on Friday, May 29, 2026.
Deliver to the following:
Town of Carrboro Finance Department
Attention: Chaz Offenburg, Finance Director
301 West Main Street
Carrboro, NC 27510
LETTERS OF INTEREST AND QUALIFICATION STATEMENTS SUBMITTED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL NOT
BE CONSIDERED. EXCEPTIONS MAY APPLY ONLY IF THE PROJECT IS RE-ADVERTISED AND THE FIRM
PROVIDES AUTHORIZATION FOR THE CONTINUED USE OF ITS SUBMISSION.
PLEASE NOTE: This Request for Qualifications is being posted on the Town's website. It will also be
advertised on the NC Department of Historically Underutilized Business's HUB website, and other
publications. ANY ADDENDA ISSUED WILL ONLY BE POSTED ON THE TOWN'S WEBSITE. ALL FIRMS ARE
RESPONSIBLE FOR CHECKING THE TOWN'S WEBSITE PERIODICALLY TO DETERMINE WHETHER ANY
ADDENDA HAVE BEEN ISSUED. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS OF AN ADDENDA MAY
DISQUALIFY A PROPOSAL FROM CONSIDERATION.
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 919-942-8541

OVERVIEW AND SCHEDULE
Project Overview
The Town of Carrboro is seeking qualified professional engineering firms (Firms) to submit sealed
Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for a comprehensive evaluation of its Stormwater Utility. The
selected firm will provide analysis and implementation support for a stormwater utility fee structure
that is fair, equitable, legally defensible, and publicly acceptable.
In order to develop an adequate understanding of needed revenue, emphasis should focus on a deep
understanding of current and legacy municipal stormwater infrastructure, with particular attention to
system deficiencies and areas that lack conveyance connection. The study should also evaluate funding
needs that encourage and motivate management of stormwater at points of generation.
Solicitation Schedule
Provided below is the anticipated schedule of solicitation events. The Town reserves the right to adjust
the schedule. Listed below are the dates and times by which stated actions must be taken or completed.
Should changes be required, proper notice will be provided to potential firms as applicable by law. If you
need any reasonable accommodation for any type of disability to participate in the procurement, please
contact the listed Town Contact as soon as possible. All listed times are Eastern Daylight Times (EDT).
Solicitation Schedule Time Date
RFQ Released 8:00 AM 05/03/2026
Optional |Virtual Pre-Proposal Conference 11:00 AM 05/13/2026
Deadline for Questions (written email) 2:00 PM 05/18/2026
Town Response to Question(s) via Addendum 5:00 PM 05/20/2026
Submissions of Qualifications Due 2:00 PM 05/29/2026
Readvertisement Period (Only If Necessary) 2:00 PM 06/12/2026
Notice of Award -Town Council Regular Meeting 6:00 PM 06/16/2026
COMMUNITY & BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Town History and General Development Pattern
The Town of Carrboro is a progressive community of approximately 20,000-21,000 residents and is
located in Orange County, North Carolina. The Town is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity,
community engagement, racial equity, climate action, and a diverse, creative culture.
Carrboro's incorporation origins date to the late 19th century with the extension of the North Carolina
Railroad and the establishment of a local textile mill. For much of its early history, it remained a small
mill town with gradual growth. In 1956, construction began on the NC 54 bypass around Carrboro's
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 1

downtown, expanding transportation infrastructure and establishing a key mobility route within the
community. By 1960, the Town's population was approximately 2,000 residents. In the late 1960s, the
population began to increase driven by growth at UNC-Chapel Hill and surrounding businesses.
In the 1970s, a group of Carrboro residents advocated for changes that prioritize meaningful
involvement of all residents. Today, Carrboro maintains its working-class roots while advancing policies
focused on social equity and environmental sustainability.
Stormwater Utility History
On June 6, 2017, the Town of Carrboro's Board of Aldermen approved an ordinance to establish a
stormwater management utility (Utility). A dedicated enterprise fund was established for stormwater
management activities and to help ensure compliance with the Town's National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II permit and North Carolina's Jordan Lake Rules.
Mission
Our mission is to remain at the forefront of water resource protection by employing effective,
innovative, and lawful practices that serve our community and residents, and safeguard one of
our most precious natural resources.
Vision
Our vision is of a vibrant and resilient Carrboro where residents enjoy and benefit from healthy
waterways, stormwater is managed and conveyed efficiently, nature-based solutions are
integrated with development, and groundwater, wetlands, streams, lakes, and coastal waters
are restored and reconnected with their natural ecological patterns.
Most recently, on February 27, 2024, Town Council approved an adjustment to the residential fee
structure from $90 per year to $100 per year to support green stormwater infrastructure within the
community. More information on current fee implementation can be found in Resources.
REQUESTED SERVICES
The role of the selected firm will be to work with the Carrboro community and Town to provide a
comprehensive study of the Stormwater Utility as well as assessing data to compile rate structures that
are needed to support a progressive stormwater management program.
Initial Scope of Services
Phase 1: Baseline Utility Assessment and Vision Implementation Strategy
Preliminary Timeline: July 1, 2026 - November 30, 2026
Program Assessment and Cost Evaluation
o Review, compile, and analyze utility and municipal data and information
Conditional assessment information for above ground infrastructure Phases I and II
by third-party engineering firm (2022 -2025)
Conditional assessment information for below ground infrastructure (Ongoing) using
NASSCO PACP standards (2022 - Current)
Stormwater utility geospatial system and associated information
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 2

Review of current services, identification of gaps, and potential future services
Alignment with a strategic pivot minimizing grey infrastructure (when possible)
Revenue Assessment
o Review of all sources of revenue (e.g. stormwater fees, permits, review/inspection fees)
o Review opportunities for infrastructure special assessments
Strategies for neighborhoods that lack conveyance connectivity
Strategies where municipal acceptance of drainage infrastructure never occurred or
lacks proper recorded documentation
o Non-fee-based funding strategies for larger capital projects
Fee Structure Basis
o Review of the currently implemented residential and commercial fee structures
o Options and implications of alternative fee models
A fee more reflective of built-upon area is of interest
o A mechanism that addresses inflation costs
o A mechanism that addresses billing collection administrative costs
o Identification of fee credit opportunities
Community Outreach for Findings
o Mass communication strategies
o Targeted dialogues and stakeholder engagement:
Residents of historically underrepresented groups
Residents facing hardship given tax and other recent household utility increases
Community residents that serve on the Stormwater Advisory Commission (SWAC)
A Town Council Work Session for information and elected official reflections
Presentation and facilitation at official meetings
o Town Council Business Meeting for draft report and recommendations
Phase 2: Fee Structure Adoption and Implementation Strategy
Preliminary Timeline: November 30, 2026 - September 30, 2027
Presentation and facilitation at official meetings
o Public hearing / council meeting for utility ordinance and fee adoption (February 2027)
On-call implementation assistance through September 2027
The scope of services may be adjusted based on needs and priorities. Detailed deliverables,
expectations, and schedule will be established at the first meeting between the Town staff and the
selected firm.
Project Milestones
ASAP 1. Final project scope/budget/timeline
FALL 2026 2. Review, analysis, and stakeholder engagement
NOV 2026 3. Draft utility ordinance and fee schedule
FEB 2027 4. Public hearing / Council meeting for utility ordinance and fee adoption
MAR 2027 5. Billing review
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 3

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Clearly mark the outside of all envelopes and all transmittals, both physical and electronic, with the
following subject line:
"SW-2026-02: Stormwater and Utility Rate Study (FY27)"
Due Date
Sealed SOQs must be received no later than by 2:00 P.M. on Friday, May 29, 2026. Submissions after
this deadline will not be considered. Deliver to the following:
Town of Carrboro Finance Department
Attention: Chaz Offenburg, Finance Director
301 West Main Street
Carrboro, NC 27510
Delivery Methods
Qualification packages may be hand-delivered or mailed. If the submittal is sent by mail or commercial
express, the Firm shall be responsible for actual delivery to the Town's designated official before the
deadline. A copy of SOQs can be sent electronically to Dylan Kirk at dkirk@carrboronc.gov.
Right to Reject
The Town of Carrboro reserves the right to accept or reject any or all submittals in whole or in part, with
or without cause; to waive technicalities; or to accept submittals or portions thereof which, in the
Town's judgment, best serve the interest of the Town. The Town reserves the right to allow alterations,
modifications, or revisions to individual elements of the Scope of Services at any time during the period
of the contract which results from this RFQ.
Withdrawal
Qualification packages may be withdrawn by written request.
RFQ Questions and Town Responses
Questions regarding this RFQ may be emailed to the listed Town Contact no later than 2:00 P.M. on
Monday, May 18, 2026 by 2:00PM. Responses will be provided via Addendum(s) posted on the Town's
website at: Bid Postings * Carrboro, NC * CivicEngage.
SOQ Preparation
Nothing herein is intended to exclude any responsibilities or in any way restrain or restrict competition.
All qualified firms/individuals are encouraged to submit responses.
Format
The SOQ body text shall be a minimum of 11-point font and packages should be limited to no more than
20 single-sided pages (812 x 11). Resumes, section dividers, cover sheet, and any addenda will not count
toward the page limit. Submittals that exceed the page limit may be deemed nonresponsive.
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 4

Submission
The submittal package should include five (5) physical copies and one (1) electronic copy. The electronic
file shall be provided as a single PDF and include the same naming conventions as communicated above.
Failure to electronically submit a single PDF may result in the submittal being deemed nonresponsive.
Packages will not be accepted via fax machine.
All submittals become property of the Town.
All costs incurred in the preparation and submission of a SOQs shall be the sole
responsibility of the Firm.
Adhering to QBS Procurement Guidelines
Firms may NOT include price estimates for completing the work, nor may they submit any suggested or
preliminary sketches or design work for the work described above. Doing so will disqualify the firm's
proposal from consideration. However, firms are encouraged to submit examples of their previous work
that would demonstrate their suitability for the proposed project as an appendix to their proposal.
Firms will not be considered unless they are properly registered with the North Carolina Board of
Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and employ at least one North Carolina
Registered Professional Engineer in responsible charge of the work anticipated under this solicitation.
In addition, any licensed design professionals proposed who are not on the firm's staff (or, in the case of
a joint venture, not on the staff of a participating firm) must be selected in accordance with the
qualifications-based selection requirements of N.C.G.S. 143-64.31. A certification of compliance with
N.C.G.S. 143-64.31 for the selection of such external staff must be provided.
SOQ Sections
To support the Town's objective and assist with the consistent evaluation of responses, the Statement
of Qualifications must include the information outlined below, clearly tabbed and presented in the
specified order. Submittals that do not follow the prescribed format or fail to address all required
sections may be considered nonresponsive.
Letter of Introduction/Interest
Provide a Letter of Interest on company letterhead summarizing the unique qualifications of
the Firm to meet the needs of this project. The letter should be signed by an authorized
representative who has authority to enter into a future contract with the Town.
Executive Summary
Provide a concise overview of the key elements of the Statement of Qualifications, highlighting
the firm's strengths, relevant experience, and the specialized expertise of the proposed team
in meeting the Town's objectives. The executive summary shall not exceed one page.
Objectives
Provide a comprehensive narrative, outline, and/or graphic demonstrating the firm's
understanding and approach to accomplishing the tasks outlined in Scope of Services section of
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 5

this RFQ. Clearly describe each task and the associated deliverables, and include information
on any proposed sub-consultant work.
Project Schedule
Describe the envisioned workload of the proposed team members for the timeframe of this
contract and verify that proposed staff will be prepared for timely completion.
Project Team and Project Management
Identify the proposed project team, including any subconsultants, key personnel, and briefly
describe the firm's approach to project management. Please include a project-specific
organizational chart which clearly illustrates the roles, responsibilities, and the reporting
relationships of personnel anticipated to work on this project. Provide profiles for the Project
Manager and up to four (4) team members, including years of experience, degrees,
certifications, etc.
Terms and Conditions of the Contract
The Town requires the use of a standard Service Contract (See Exhibits) for professional
services. Should the Firm have any special or unusual contract conditions or limitations, the
Town should be advised of these in this section.
Past Projects and References
Provide descriptions of three (3) projects completed within the past five years that represent
the strengths and unique qualifications of the firm or team. The list should contain project
titles, locations, start and end dates, name of project managers. Also include the, name, phone
number, and email address of references.
Insurance and Licensure
Include Proof of Certificate of Insurance (COI) and documentation of all required licenses and
registrations necessary to perform the proposed services.
EVALUATION
Process
A Selection Committee comprised of Town staff will review and evaluate all sealed Statements of
Qualifications. The results of this evaluation will be used to develop a recommendation to the Town
Manager and Town Council regarding contract award.
The Town reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to establish a shortlist of the most qualified firms. The
Selection Committee may elect to conduct discussions with shortlisted firms. Such discussions may
include written questions and responses and/or interviews with key personnel. If interviews are
conducted, all associated costs shall be borne by the participating firms.
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If an award is made, it is anticipated that the contract will be awarded to the professional engineering
firm whose qualifications are determined to best satisfy the requirements of this RFQ and serve the best
interests of the Town.
Criteria and Scoring
Possible
Evaluation Criteria
Points
Understanding of required project needs as expressed in the qualification's submission 20
Experience working with multiple stakeholders through a design process 15
Experience with similar projects comparable in type, size, and complexity, including
20
experience in administering federally funded projects
Qualifications of the staff assigned to perform the work with this project 15
Demonstrated ability to perform high-quality work and control costs 15
Demonstrated ability to complete the project within the stated schedule 15
TOTAL 100 Pts
AWARD PROCEDURES AND NEGOTIATIONS
Award Procedures
This procurement will be made in accordance with provisions of G.S. 143-64.31, which requires that
firms be selected based on demonstrated competence and qualification and thereafter negotiate a
contract for those services at a fair and reasonable fee with the best qualified firm. The Town may
accept the proposal that best serves its needs, as determined by Town officials at their sole discretion.
All work performed shall be in accordance with the terms of this contract (Exhibit 1). It will be the
responsibility of the successful firm to prepare, develop, and/or provide the following: schedules;
project cost estimates; meeting agendas and minutes; deliverables; inside and outside communications;
and if deemed necessary, additional contributions to the development and execution of the project.
The Town reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposals received.
Therefore, it is important that the proposal be submitted initially on the most favorable terms from a
technical and feasibility standpoint.
Contract Negotiations
The Town will negotiate a stipulated fixed fee for basic services and a rate schedule to be utilized for
additional services and contingent additional services with the most qualified firm at a compensation
which is fair and reasonable to the Town. The rate schedule for additional services shall remain firm
throughout project completion. In making this decision, the Town will consider the established value,
general scope, complexity, and professional nature of the services to be rendered
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 7

Right to Discontinue Negotiations
Should the Town be unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with the firm considered to be most
qualified, negotiations with that firm shall be formally terminated. Negotiations will then proceed with
the remaining ranked firms in the same manner until an agreement is reached, unless it is determined
by the committee that it is in the best interest of the Town that the process be terminated or modified.
GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Non-Collusion
Firms submitting SOQs shall have no association with elected or appointed officials that could be
considered a conflict of interest. Any such relationship will subject the firm to immediate disqualification
in consideration for this project.
Vendor Registration
The selected firm must be registered with the Town to receive payment for services and/or supplies
provided under any Town contract.
Proprietary Information
Trade secrets or proprietary information submitted by a firm in connection with a procurement
transaction shall not be subject to the public disclosure under the North Carolina Public Records Act
pursuant to NC General Statutes 132-1.2(1) and 66-152(3). However, the firm must invoke the
protection of this section prior to or upon submission of the data or other materials and must identify
the data on other materials to be protected and state the reasons why protection is necessary. Each
individual page must be labeled "Confidential" in the top right corner.
Public Records
RFQ responses will become public records as allowed by statute and therefore will be subject to public
disclosure after award. Firms submitting proposals are encouraged to carefully check them for
conformance to the requirements stated above. If submittals do not meet these requirements, they will
be disqualified. No exception will be granted.
Equal Opportunity
The firm will ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not unfairly discriminated
against due to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or veteran status.
E- Verify Compliance
The Firm shall comply with the requirements of Article 2 of Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General
Statutes. The Firm shall require any subcontractors to comply with the requirements of Article 2,
Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General Statutes.
Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Compliance
The Town of Carrboro will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which prohibits
discrimination based on a disability. The Town of Carrboro will make reasonable accommodation in all
programs to enable participation by an individual with a disability who meets essential eligibility
requirements. Town of Carrboro programs will be available in the most integrated setting for everyone.
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 8

If any accommodation is necessary for participation in any program or services, participants are
encouraged to notify Town staff. All work shall comply with the Americans with Disability Act along with
Chapter 11 of the 2009 NC Building Code and the 2003 edition of ICC/ANSI A117.1.
Minority/Women/Small Business Enterprise (HUB)
Per N.C.G.S 143-64.31, selection of a firm shall include the use of good faith efforts by the public entity
to notify minority firms of the opportunity to submit qualifications for consideration by the public entity.
It is the practice of the Town to make a good faith effort to procure the submission of proposals by
historically underutilized businesses as part of the selection process.
The Town of Carrboro encourage all businesses, including Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) and
minority and women-owned businesses to respond to all Requests for Qualifications.
Iran Divestment Act
The firm shall certifies that; (i) it is not identified on the Final Divestment List or any other list of
prohibited investments created by the NC State Treasurer pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-6A-4; (ii) it will not
take any action causing it to appear on any such list during the term of this Contract, and (iii) it will not
utilize any subcontractor to provide goods or services hereunder that is identified on any list.
Divestment from Companies that Boycott Israel
The firm shall represent, covenants, and certify that it is not listed on the list of restricted companies
developed and published by the North Carolina State Treasurer as required by N.C.G.S. 147-86.81
RESOURCES
Carrboro Town Council Meeting - February 17, 2026
Stormwater Utility Rate Information
Carrboro Comprehensive Plan
New Unified Development Ordinance (In-Progress)
Watershed Residential Assistance Program
Bolin Creek
Tom's Creek
EXHIBITS
Town of Carrboro Standard Non-Federal Service Contract
SW-2026-02 Town of Carrboro 301 W. Main Street Carrboro, NC 27510 Page 9