DEPARTMENT: Finance
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
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Authorization To Execute An Agreement With Dorsey And Whitney, LLP For Bonding Counsel Services
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize the Enterprise Finance and Information Services Director to execute an agreement with Dorsey and Whitney, LLP for bonding counsel services, upon the decision to proceed with bonding issuance.
SUMMARY
Following strategic planning in 2023, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners established several strategic priorities for 2024. One of those priorities is related to future capital finance strategies and financing issuances that may be necessary to carry out the County's Financial Management Plan and Capital Improvement Plans. Given this priority, Dakota County issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on September 11, 2024, for bonding counsel services. Four proposals were received and reviewed by staff in Enterprise Finance and Information Services Administration and the Finance Department.
Services and deliverables include offering direction and advice on the appropriate procedures to be followed by the County in connection with the authorization and sale of bonds or other debt instruments; providing legal advice and assistance for competitive and negotiated bond sales, as well as direct purchase and state/federal financing programs; preparing necessary documentation for authorization of sale and issuance of bonds; as well as other related municipal finance legal services.
The solicitation selection criteria included:
* Understanding the scope of services as detailed in the RFP.
* Demonstrated experience in providing the services as detailed in the Scope of Services.
* Team's qualifications and availability.
* Strength and longevity of references from previous clients.
* Cost/ fee proposal.
After conducting interviews with each proposer, and upon thorough review, the review panel recommended awarding a retainer agreement to Dorsey and Whitney, LLP. The decision was based...
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