What the buyer needs
AI summaryThe City of Union City seeks proposals from law firms licensed in New Jersey to serve as general counsel for its Community Development Agency. The selected firm will provide legal research and advisory opinions, represent the agency in federal and state courts and administrative forums, review applications, draft resolutions and ordinances, and attend all agency and directed board meetings. Eligible firms must have significant experience representing New Jersey municipalities as general counsel and comply with state affirmative action and business registration requirements. Proposals will be evaluated on municipal and urban general counsel experience, familiarity with the commission form of government, and cost competitiveness, including hourly rates and a not-to-exceed total. The contract runs from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027. Sealed proposals consisting of one original and two copies are due by 11:00 a.m. on November 20, 2026, at 3715 Palisade Avenue.
Scope of work
- Conduct legal research and provide advisory opinions as needed
- Represent the CDA in federal and state courts and administrative forums
- Review, analyze, and advise the CDA on applications before it
- Review and draft resolutions and ordinances
- Attend all CDA meetings and other board or committee meetings as directed
- Serve as attorney of record and approve deeds, contracts, and documents
- Conduct programs on municipal issues for officials, employees, and Board members
- Notify the CDA of changes in laws, regulations, and court decisions
How proposals are evaluated
| Criterion | Weight / scoring |
|---|---|
| Qualifications of individuals performing tasks and respective participation | Not specified |
| Experience representing municipalities as general counsel in similar urban environments and references | Not specified |
| Ability to perform tasks in a timely fashion, including staffing and familiarity | Not specified |
| Ability to be available with appropriate personnel at all times necessary | Not specified |
| Cost and expense necessary to familiarize attorney with City municipal issues | Not specified |
| Cost competitiveness in light of all factors | Not specified |
| Proven experience as municipal attorney and knowledge of municipal law | Not specified |
| Experience representing municipalities operating under the commission form of government | Not specified |
Minimum qualifications
- Licensed to practice law in the State of New Jersey
- Significant experience representing New Jersey municipalities as general counsel
- At least four (4) references, three (3) with knowledge of municipal general counsel representation
- Comply with N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq. Affirmative Action
- Registered with the New Jersey Division of Taxation (P.L. 2004, C.57)
Documents to include with your response
- Firm and attorney information, practice areas, and qualifications
- Cost details including hourly rates, time estimates, expenses, and not-to-exceed amount
- Statement of Ownership Disclosure
- Business Registration Certificate
- Disclosure of Investment Activities in Iran Form
- Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Russia or Belarus
- Statement Concerning Ethics Complaints
- Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity compliance documentation
How to submit
- Method
- Sealed proposals
- Instructions
- Submit one original and two (2) copies on white 8 1/2" x 11" paper to Hilda I. Rosario, City Clerk, City of Union City, 3715 Palisade Avenue, Union City, New Jersey 07087.