About this opportunity
AI summaryThe Borough of Watchung requests proposals for computer consultant services to manage network and office technology. The scope includes identifying and recommending hardware, software, and firewall upgrades, providing 24/7 remote monitoring of key devices, operating call center phone support for desktop issues, and troubleshooting with application software providers. All services must be performed within the United States, with work performed onsite. Applicants must submit sealed proposals plainly marked on the outside to the Borough Clerk by November 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Proposals will be addressed to William Hance, QPA, at the Watchung Municipal Building. The contract term is one year from the date of award. The Mayor and Council will evaluate proposals based on qualifications, merit, and cost competitiveness, specifically measuring experience and references (10%), cost competitiveness (20%), and required forms (10%), along with factors like knowledge of the borough, availability, and staffing qualifications.
Buyer and opportunity details
- Client
- The Borough of Watchung
Scope of work
- Management, maintenance, and security of Watchung's network infrastructure
- Identify and recommend hardware, software, firewall operating systems, and upgrades
- Provide 24/7 remote monitoring on key network devices including virus scanning, data backup, and security intrusions
- Provide call center support with real-time phone support for desktop issues
- Provide onsite service between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding public holidays
- Provide emergency repair service and maintenance outside normal working hours, including Saturdays and Sundays
- Troubleshoot problems with appropriate vendors and maintain software from application software providers
- Support approximately 65 desktop and laptop computers and 2 Windows 2016 servers across four Borough locations
How proposals are evaluated
| Criterion | Weight / scoring |
|---|---|
| Qualifications of the individual or firms who will perform the service or activity | 10 % |
| Experience and references | 10 % |
| Ability to perform the service or activity in a timely fashion, including staffing and the staff's familiarity of the service or activity | 15 % |
| Cost Competitiveness | 20 % |
| Knowledge of the Borough Computer Systems | 25 % |
| Required forms submitted with proposal | 10 % |
| Women / minority owned business | 10% |
Minimum qualifications
- Experience and knowledge in computers, operating systems, and networking, especially existing Watchung Borough systems
- All consultants must be fully vetted by the Police Department with records provided
- Proof of any necessary professional license or certification from the State of New Jersey for all assigned professionals
- Neither the firm nor assigned individuals may be disbarred, suspended, or prohibited from professional practice
Documents to include with your response
- Technical Proposal
- Cost Proposal detailing retainer, services included, and hourly billing rates
- Completed and initialed Request for Proposal Checklist
- Resumes and qualifications of all individuals assigned to perform the work
- At least 2 references with address and phone number
- Non-Collusion Affidavit properly notarized
- Stockholder Disclosure Certification / Public Disclosure Statement listing owners of 10% or more
- Business Registration Certificate
- Americans with Disabilities Form
- Disclosure of Investment Activities in Russia, Belarus, and Iran Form
Key dates
- Posted
- October 30, 2026
- Proposals due
- November 20, 2026 10:00 AM
How to submit
- Method
- Sealed hard copy and digital copy
- Instructions
- Address to William Hance, QPA, Watchung Borough, 15 Mountain Boulevard, Watchung, New Jersey 07069, Attn: Computer Consultant Proposal. Submit one original and one digital copy (USB or CD) in a plainly marked envelope.
Contract details
- Term
- One (1) year from date of award
- Place of performance
- Borough Hall, Fire Department, DPW, and Texier House in Watchung, New Jersey; all services must be performed within the United States of America.
- Insurance and bonding
- Proof of professional liability insurance with coverage of $1,000,000; Workers' Compensation and Employer's Liability Insurance in accordance with New Jersey law; General Automobile Liability insurance subject to approval.
