The Department of Natural Resources, Division of Support Services, is soliciting proposals for a Contractor to prepare legally defensible Best Interest Findings (BIFs) for land and resource decisions under AS 38. These findings must demonstrate that the proposed action is in the best interest of the State, based on a thorough analysis of facts, statutes, public input, and policy considerations. 1. Project Initiation and Coordination • Within five working days of receiving a task order, the Contractor shall: o Schedule a kickoff meeting with the DNR Project Manager. o Deliver a project schedule and work plan outlining key milestones and deliverables. • While a project is active, the Contractor shall: o Conduct weekly check-ins with the DNR Project Manager. o Provide updates on progress, risks, and upcoming tasks. 2. Stakeholder Management • Develop and maintain stakeholder and agency contact lists. • Draft and distribute public notices for all phases of the BIF process. • Provide web content for DNR’s project webpage as needed. • Conduct public outreach meetings, if needed, to explain proposed actions and gather input. • Collect and categorize public and agency comments for analysis. 3. Draft Legally Defensible Decisions • The Contractor shall prepare a Preliminary Best Interest Finding that includes: o A summary of material facts known to the Director or their delegate. o A description of the proposed action and alternatives considered. o An evaluation of public and agency comments. o A clear rationale for the proposed decision, including: ▪ How the action aligns with the State’s best interest. ▪ Consideration of multiple uses, sustained yield, and public trust principles. ▪ Conditions or stipulations to mitigate impacts. o Maintain a complete administrative record.
