Introduction The City of Lewiston is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan Communications Consultant to help support media and communications objectives as the neighborhood transformation plan is implemented. Growing Our Tree Streets (GOTS) Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan Implementation project Project in Lewiston, Maine was awarded a $30 million HUD grant in 2021, to help launch the 10-year Transformation Plan developed by the City of Lewiston, Lewiston Housing Authority, Community Concepts, Inc., and scores of community members five years ago. The spotlight is now shining on Lewiston as this exciting new era in the city's life begins. To ensure GOTS garners the broad-based and statewide attention and support it deserves, those leading the effort will not only be asked to respond to press inquiries, but also to initiate and generate media opportunities to spread the exciting news across Maine. Additionally, as work has been implemented, the importance of communication with residents within the neighborhood, throughout the city, and even partnerships has been elevated as an area needing improvement. With this RFP, we seek the professional skill and resource of a primary communications consultant to address four goals: 1) Increase residents' basic understanding of the GOTS Transformation Plan Goals, and benefits to the entire community. 2) Build on the support and awareness campaign by sustaining the Lewiston community's understanding of Transformation Plan efforts and benefits through dedicated, accessible, and easily updated communications channels as well as regular ongoing and meaningful community engagement. 3) Grow and manage Transformation Plan related media relations. 4) Manage Transformation Plan related public relations challenges. This work will involve working with the primary contractor, the City of Lewiston, as well as key stakeholders including but not limited to Lewiston Housing, Community Concepts, Healthy Neighborhoods, St Mary's Nutrition Center, Community Clinical Services, and Raise-Op Housing Cooperative. Additionally, communications plan and messaging were developed for this project in 2022. All communications and media relations work shall build off complement the foundation of these plans while also acknowledging the evolving nature of the transformation plan work. Interested bidders must register with the Deputy Director of Budget and Purchasing either through direct response to the City's RFP solicitation at mryerson@lewistonmaine.gov or by contacting Allen Ward at 207-513-3040 or award@lewistonmaine.gov to be added to the bidders list. Scope of Services Lewiston is seeking an individual or firm to provide communications services that meet the established goals. Proposals should highlight the consultant's attention to achieving the above four goals of the project as outlined in the introduction and the firm's: Strength of Proposed Strategies Proposals shall identify communications strategies and rationale as to how each strategy will help meet the established goal. Experience Communicating Complex Work The Growing Our Tree Streets Transformation Plan work is complex and involves a variety of stakeholders. Experience with Choice Neighborhoods program or large-scale neighborhood revitalization efforts are preferred. Experience Communicating with Diverse Audiences The selected Consultant is expected to demonstrate their understanding of the audiences in Lewiston as well as media relations that will ensure success achieving the City's goals. Workers' Compensation Workers' Compensation, coverage with Statutory Limits and Employers Liability for all employees with limits of $400,000 per incident; and, in case any work is sublet, the Contractor shall require the subcontractor similarly to provide coverage for the latter's employees unless such employees are covered by the protection afforded the Contractor. If you have questions, you may contact Allen Ward, Deputy Director of Budget and Purchasing (207)- 513-3040 (award@lewistonmaine.gov).