The purpose of the as-needed services agreements is to provide architectural services for various County facilities projects as they occur during the agreement period. When the Public Works Department receives a project request, it will be determined at that time whether or not it would be prudent to utilize one of the as-needed architects. The as-needed architects will provide typical architectural services, such as programming, design, and construction administration. The types, sizes, and locations of projects will vary. Typical projects may include remodels, tenant improvements, additions, modernization, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades, and code-related improvements. Projects may also include investigations, studies, and reports. Some of the anticipated projects include those identified in the County's facilities life-cycle investment program ("FLIP”) under the recent budget allocation for capital projects and deferred maintenance. Having these as-needed agreements in place will allow the design phase to commence sooner and provide for a shorter project completion schedule.  
  
Interactive Resources, Inc., Noll & Tam Architects, and Robinson Mills + Williams were selected through a competitive qualifications-based selection process. The Public Works Department requested Statements of Qualifications (“SOQs”), and received 28 SOQs, and ten firms were short-listed. A selection committee comprised of County staff conducted interviews and ranked the short-listed firms. It is recommended that the above firms, who are the three highest ranked firms, be awarded the agreements and that the as-needed agreements be approved at this time. The agreements include a one year extension option that can be exercised by the Public Works Director if she chooses.