Qualified Parties will focus on reviewing and enhancing contractual agreements and legal compliance. The selected provider will conduct thorough evaluations of any new and existing contracts with vendors. Identifying potential risks and areas for improvement by offering
recommendations for amendments or renegotiations to ensure compliance and mitigate legal issues. Additionally, the provider will review MOUs between the MPO and local governments, offering legal guidance on interpretation, compliance, and potential amendments. Furthermore, the provider will review federal regulations such as 23 CFR Part 450, 2 CFR Part 200, and other relevant laws governing transportation planning and funding, providing legal analysis and interpretations to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
The RGVMPO/LRGVDC will be selecting an experienced attorney and/or law firm to provide high quality and timely legal options and advice to the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization Executive and administrative staff, especially with respect the following categories of work:
1. Review Contracts between MPO and Consultants:
o Analyzing and evaluating existing contracts between the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and its consultants / vendors.
o Identifying potential legal risks, inconsistencies, or areas for improvement within these contracts.
o Providing legal advice and recommendations for contract amendments or renegotiations to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
2. Review MOU between MPO and Local Governments:
o Scrutinizing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between the MPO and local governments.
o Assessing the legal implications and obligations outlined in these agreements.
o Offering legal guidance on the interpretation of terms, compliance with relevant regulations, and potential amendments to enhance clarity or address emerging issues.
3. Review and Interpret 23 CFR Part 450, 2 CFR Part 200, and Other Laws:
o Examining federal regulations such as 23 CFR Part 450, 2 CFR Part 200, and other pertinent laws governing transportation planning and funding.
o Providing legal analysis and interpretations to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
o Advising on any legal implications of proposed projects or policies in relation to these statutes.
4. Contract Duration:
o The contract duration is initially set for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to four additional years, totaling five years.
o The legal services provider should be aware of this timeframe and commit to delivering consistent, high-quality legal support throughout the contract period.
Attorney submitting statement of qualifications under this RFQ must be able to meet and/or exceed all the categories of work identified above.
Link to RFQ (PDF): Click Here
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