Request for Proposals (RFP)
Legal Services
Issued by: Mansfield Downtown Partnership, Inc.
Issue Date: 10/28/2025
Proposals Due: 12/1/2025
Introduction
The Mansfield Downtown Partnership, Inc. (the “Partnership”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
that works collaboratively with the Town of Mansfield, the University of Connecticut, residents, and
businesses to promote economic development, community engagement, and a vibrant quality of life.
The Partnership also functions as the statutory Designated Development Agency for the Town of
Mansfield.
The Partnership is seeking proposals from qualified attorneys or law firms to provide legal services on
an as-needed basis. The successful proposer will demonstrate experience advising nonprofit
organizations, public-private partnerships, and/or municipalities.
Scope of Services
The selected attorney or firm will provide legal counsel to the Partnership on an ongoing, as-needed
basis. Services may include, but are not limited to:
1. General Counsel Services
o Advising the Board of Directors and staff on legal matters related to governance,
compliance, contracts, and policies.
o Reviewing, drafting, and negotiating contracts, agreements, and memoranda of
understanding.
o Advising on compliance with federal, state, and local laws affecting nonprofit
organizations.
o Advising the Board of Directors on matters related to the Partnership’s function as the
statutory Designated Development Agency for the Town of Mansfield.
o Advising on matters related to FOIA compliance.
2. Corporate and Governance Matters
o Providing guidance on nonprofit governance best practices, bylaws, and policies.
o Attending Board meetings when requested.
3. Real Estate and Economic Development Matters
o Advising on matters related to leases, easements, property development, or related
agreements.
4. Other Matters as Assigned
o Providing advice regarding potential disputes, risk management, or other issues that may
arise.
o Coordinating with outside counsel if specialized expertise is required.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should be clear, concise, and no more than 15 pages. Please include the following:
1. Cover Letter
o Brief introduction and statement of interest.
o Primary contact information (name, phone, email, address).
2. Firm/Attorney Background
o Description of your practice, size, areas of expertise, and years in business.
o Summary of relevant experience with nonprofit organizations, municipalities, or
economic development entities.
3. Proposed Approach
o Description of how you would deliver services to the Partnership.
o Recommended structure for providing legal support (e.g., retainer vs. hourly billing,
proactive vs. on-call counsel).
o How you would ensure responsiveness and availability.
4. Key Personnel
o Identify the attorney(s) who will provide services, including resumes or bios.
5. Relevant Experience
o Examples of prior or current clients with similar needs.
o Reference or references with contact information.
6. Fee Proposal
o Hourly rates for attorneys and staff.
o Any retainer or alternative fee arrangements available.
o A proposed not-to-exceed amount (if applicable).
7. Conflict of Interest Statement
o Disclosure of any known or potential conflicts of interest.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated on:
Experience and qualifications.
Understanding of nonprofit, municipal, and/or economic development law.
Cost competitiveness and value.
Strength and practicality of the proposed service approach.
Availability and responsiveness.
References from comparable clients.
The Partnership may invite finalists for interviews before making a final selection.
Submission Instructions
Please submit your proposal in writing to:
Steven Ferrigno
Executive Director
Mansfield Downtown Partnership, Inc.
P.O. Box 513
Storrs, CT 06268
Proposals must be received by 12/1/2025. Late submissions may not be considered.
Terms and Conditions
The Partnership reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive informalities,
and to negotiate terms in the best interest of the Partnership.
This RFP does not commit the Partnership to award a contract or pay any costs incurred in the
preparation of a response.
All information submitted will be considered public record unless otherwise protected by law.
The Contractor agrees and warrants that in the performance of this Contract it will not
discriminate or permit discrimination by itself, its officers, employees, agents, subcontractors or
others against any person or group of persons on the grounds of sex, race, color, religion, age
marital status, national origin, or any other basis in any manner prohibited by the laws of the
United States, the State of Connecticut, or the Town of Mansfield.
This page summarizes the opportunity, including an overview and a preview of the attached documents.