Financial Advisory Services

Background

Howard County, Maryland, seeks qualified firm(s) to provide independent financial advisory services. The services will encompass General Obligation Bonds, Capital Lease Financing, Public Private Partnerships, and Tax Increment Financing. The County traditionally issues Consolidated Public Improvement Bonds and Metropolitan District Bonds annually and has a short-term financing program. As of June 30, 2025, the outstanding total of general obligation bonds was approximately $1,173,945,000 with a consistent AAA rating from major agencies.

Work Details

The Contractor shall provide the following services: 1. Advise on market conditions for municipal bonds and capital leases; 2. Assist in structuring bond issues for optimal rates; 3. Prepare cash flows pre- and post-issuance; 4. Analyze financing proposals from investment bankers; 5. Participate in preparing Official Statements and closing documents; 6. Advise on continuing disclosure requirements; 7. Assist with rating agency strategies; 8. Provide training and informational materials; 9. Analyze marketability of County bonds; 10. Attend bond sales and evaluate bids; 11. Conduct post-sale analyses; 12. Guide on compliance matters post-sale; 13. Advise on debt affordability and alternative financing methods; 14. Assist in procurement of necessary agents for bond issuance.

Period of Performance

The Agreement period shall be for one year commencing on or about December 1, 2026, with an option for nine additional one-year renewals at the County's discretion.

Place of Performance

Services will be performed in Howard County, Maryland.

Bidder Requirements

Contractors must have at least five years of experience in financial advisory services and must be registered to do business in Maryland. The contract includes a 15% EBO subcontracting goal for minority business enterprises.