The purpose of the on-call contract is to provide architectural services for various County facilities projects as they occur during the contract term. When the Public Works Department receives a project request, it will be determined at the time whether or not it would be prudent to utilize this on-call architect. The on-call architect will provide typical architectural services, such as programming, design and construction administration. The type, size and location of projects will vary. Typical projects may include new construction, building renovations/ modernizations, remodeling of the entirety or parts of a building, tenant improvements, exterior restorations, mechanical/electrical/plumbing upgrades, structural improvements, code-related improvements, and deferred maintenance. Having this on-call contract in place will save the County time and money when compared to the time and expense in conducting a consultant selection process on a project-by-project basis and allow the design phase to commence sooner and provide for a shorter project completion schedule.   
  
Noll & Tam Architects was selected through a competitive qualifications-based selection process. The Public Works Department solicited Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) and received twenty. Twelve firms were shortlisted. A selection committed comprised of County staff conducted interviews and ranked the shortlisted firms. Public Works recommends that the above firm, which is one of the six highest ranked firms, be awarded the on-call contract at this time. The contract includes a single one-year extension option that can be exercised by the Public Works director, if he chooses. Government Code Section 31000 authorizes the County to contract for services including the type of architectural services that Noll & Tam Architects provides.

If the agreement is not approved, the County will not be able to take advantage of the time and cost savings possible through utilization of this on-call architectural services agreement.