Task 1: Overall Planning Guidance. Throughout the RPOCD planning process, the consultant will work with MetroCOG to ensure: • The RPOCD is developed in accordance with CGS 8-35a and conforms to the State of Connecticut’s Growth Management Principles and the State C & D Plan • The RPOCD is consistent with each participating jurisdiction’s plans, policies, programs, and authorities; and • The goals, objectives and implementation strategies recommended by the RPOCD are consistent with related regional plans developed by MetroCOG. • Guidance will be provided through monthly coordination meetings (virtual). The consultant is encouraged to provide successful examples of RPOCDs and best practices to inform the planning process and development of the RPOCD. Task 2: Focus Group Facilitation and Coordination. Focus Groups will be organized by each plan topic and will be convened at key stages of the planning process to provide insight and guidance. Focus Groups will review regional typologies, identify regional issues, provide input on goals, objectives, and actions and help to guide the public outreach process. Focus Group membership will consist of municipal staff and local and state stakeholders with expertise, interest, and/or lived experience in the focus topic. Attendance will be open and flexible throughout the planning process, and firms are encouraged to suggest organizations and stakeholders to participate in focus group meetings. Agendas will include an item for public comment and meeting information will be included on the MetroCOG website. Key Subtasks: • The consultant will organize, lead, and serve as a Subject Matter Expert at meetings of the following focus groups: o Housing and Neighborhoods o Economic Development o Utilities, Government and Civic Infrastructure o Other focus groups as needed • Meeting responsibilities include: o Summarize key themes and takeaways from each meeting (report-outs). o Work with Focus Groups to accomplish tasks described in this RFP (regional typologies, regional issues and, develop goals, objectives and actions). o Assist in developing the initial vision and goals of the plan. o Assist in developing/coordinating public outreach activities. • MetroCOG Staff will lead the Natural Resources and Transportation & Mobility Focus Groups. At times the consultant will be asked to participate in these meetings, including during the review of regional typologies and the development of goals, objectives, and actions. Meetings will occur in a hybrid format (virtual attendance is fine). Minimum meetings anticipated: 16 total • Lead 12 meetings (4 each of Housing & Neighborhoods, Economic Development, and Government & Civic Infrastructure) • Participate in 4 meetings (2 each of Natural Resources and Transportation & Mobility)
