Scope of Work: City of Lone Tree 2021 Public Engagement Initiative
C/O: Jeff Holwell (jeff.holwell@cityoflonetree.com), Director of Economic Development and Public Affairs
I. Project Description
The City of Lone Tree is seeking proposals from qualified firms to research and test the public opinion of a number of issues that the City Council may consider for the inclusion on the November 2021 ballot.
In early to mid-2021, the City of Lone Tree will lead an effort that seeks feedback from the community regarding our local dedicated sales tax of .3125% pledged to park, recreation, and arts center bond repayments. This sales tax expires on December 1, 2023, and as such we would like to gauge the community sentiment around extending the tax beyond 2023 and shifting, raising, or exploring other revenue sources the tax to fund enhanced city services (public safety, transportation, open space, etc.).
Traditional tools, such as a community survey, will be a part of the process. That said, we also seek to engage a public affairs consultant to assist us with additional community outreach efforts such as focus groups, town halls, and community meetings. Finally, we expect to receive professional guidance on voter sentiment, election questions, and strategy.
If this scope of work fits your goals and experiences we encourage you to submit a proposal.
II. Project Background
In 2008, the citizens of the City of Lone Tree voted to pass a .3125 sales tax in order to fund bonds for the design and construction of the Lone Tree Arts Center (at .1875%) and to perform park and recreation improvements throughout the community (at .125%). The tax, which is scheduled to sunset in 2023, has been a great benefit to the community and has provided the City with premier cultural, parks, and recreational amenities. As an example, since it’s opened in 2011, the LTAC hosts nearly 175 live performances per year as well as various art installations and community impact programs for children, seniors, people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and those living with Alzheimer’s or early memory loss. Now that the bonds are nearly paid off and the tax is set to expire the City would like to gauge community sentiment towards extending or increasing the tax for other important community services.
III. Deliverables
The City will engage a firm experienced in conducting a multi-medium public engagement approach that includes but is not limited to the following:
1) Community Survey.
2) Telephone Town Hall.
3) Community Meetings.
4) Focus Groups.
5) A detailed and summary set of reports of the findings from the campaign.
6) A final presentation to City Council giving an overview of the findings.
7) Recommendations and suggested election questions for the November 2021 ballot.
The tactics listed above are not exhaustive, and the City remains open to the expertise of relevant firms to make additional recommendations for community outreach.
III. Administration and Budget
The selected firm will be expected to work with City staff throughout the duration of the project, and we have budgeted approximately $50,000 for this effort.
IV. Timeframe
The deadline for proposals is December 4, 2020. The City plans to engage a firm by January 6, 2021, and anticipates a completed project date of July 30, 2021.
A brief proposal, highlighting your firm’s interest, experience, and costs, is required. Please submit electronically by December 4, 2020 to:
Jeff Holwell: jeff.holwell@cityoflonetree.com
You may also address any questions at 303-708-1818
Thanks!
