Table of Contents
Request for Proposals
Section I Intent p. 3 Section II Background and Location p. 3 Section III Description of the Leasehold and Design Concepts p. 5 Section IV Mississippi Landmark Designation p. 5 Section V Zoning p. 5 Section VI Utilities p. 5 Section VII Parking and Access p. 5 Section VIII Proposal Requirements p. 6 Section IX Time Schedule p. 8 Section X Selection Process p. 9 Section XI Rejection of Proposal & Waiver of Deficiencies p. 9 Section XII Inquiries, Questions, and City Contact p. 9 Section XIII Proposal Delivery and Deadline p. 10 Section XIV Lease Agreement p. 10 Section XV Public Records p. 10
Exhibits
Exhibit “A” Natchez: Downtown Master Plan...... A-1
Exhibit “B” Bluff Sub Area Plan of the Downtown Master Plan...... B-1
Exhibit “C” Historic and Contemporary Photographs of the Depot...... C-1
Exhibit “D” Aerial Photography & Layout of Leasable & Common Areas.... D-1
Exhibit “E” MDAH: Procedure for Approval of Modifications to Depot; E-1 Information on Locating a Bar, Kitchen, and Bathrooms...... Exhibit “F” Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Information ...... F-1
Exhibit “G” Request for Proposal Form...... G-1
Exhibit “H” Evaluation Criteria ……………………………………………………….. H-1
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 2 July 9, 2019 Request for Proposals
CITY OF NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI
Design, Renovation, and Operation of a Food, Beverage, and Entertainment Venue at the Old Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad Depot 200 North Broadway Street Natchez, Mississippi
The City of Natchez (“City”) is pleased to offer this excellent business opportunity for entrepreneurs, developers, end-users, and interested parties (collectively “Proposer”) to submit a plan to design, renovate, lease, and operate a Food, Beverage, and Entertainment Venue at the Old Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad Depot (“Depot”).
SECTION I: INTENT By this Request for Proposal (“RFP”), the City sets forth its intent to consider a proposal for the lease of the Depot in conjunction with the City’s 2018 Downtown Master Plan (“Plan”). See Exhibit “A” to this RFP.
The Plan identifies the Depot as the hub of a new “Entertainment District” along Broadway Street adjacent to the Natchez Bluff. The purpose of the “Entertainment District” is to encourage private investment and revitalization of properties along the east side of Broadway Street facing the Bluff and the Mississippi River. The City’s intent is that the Depot will be a prime destination for locals and tourists, especially on weekends. The Bluff Sub-Area portion of the Plan is Exhibit “B” to this RFP.
SECTION II: BACKGROUND AND LOCATION The Depot is situated on the famous Natchez Bluff, nearly 200 feet above the Mississippi River. The Bluff offers unparalleled views of the greatest river in North America and the spectacular Western sky beyond. Because of its unique location and historical significance, the Depot is one of the most sought-after properties in the City. Exhibit “C” features Historic and Contemporary Photographs of the Premises.
History: Built in 1910, the Depot is an official Mississippi Landmark, as well as the only remaining enclosed structure in the public park atop the Natchez Bluff. The Depot’s exterior architectural style is “railroad vernacular” with half-timbered stucco gables and a terra cotta roof. The interior retains the original wainscoting and terrazzo floors.
Exterior Renovation: In 2016, the City of Natchez completed a $879,000 renovation of the Depot’s exterior and prepared the interior for renovation by a qualified candidate to operate a business.
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 3 July 9, 2019 Proximity to Convention Hotel & Facilities and Downtown: The Depot is located across the street from the Natchez Grand Hotel and just two blocks from the Natchez Convention Center, Community Center, City Auditorium, and the Historic Downtown Shopping District.
The Trailhead Pavilion for the popular Natchez Trails and Walking Tours is located at the Depot. Exhibits at the Trailhead Pavilion give an overview of Natchez history and point the way to over 5 miles of walking trails and display panels that explain historic sites along the path. The Trails attract tourists, walkers, joggers, baby strollers, skateboarders, and scooters.
Leisure and Recreation District: The Depot is part of the City’s official Leisure and Recreation District in which patrons are allowed to exit bars and restaurants to stroll the sidewalks with alcoholic beverages in a “go cup”.
Riverboats and Casino Gambling: At the Bluff, Roth’s Hill Road winds down to the river bank where Magnolia Bluffs Casino attracts nearly 550,000 people a year. Nearby Silver Street leads from the Bluff to Natchez Under the Hill where the luxury paddle wheelers and cruise lines deliver 14,000 travelers to Natchez during the peak season (February to June).
Festivals, Fireworks, Parades, and Recreation: Throughout the year, festivals, and community events are programmed at the Bluff: chili cook-offs, crawfish festivals, car shows, fireworks, carnivals, and fundraisers. The annual Natchez Balloon Festival attracts 25,000 people to the Bluff the third weekend in October. The annual Bishop Gunn Concert & Crawfish Boil, held on the Bluff in May, brought 3,000 attendees in 2018 and 4,000 attendees (despite the rain) in 2019. The Bluff is also the starting point for parades in celebration of everything from Christmas, Martin Luther King Day, and Mardi Gras to high school homecomings.
Nearby Tourist Attractions: The Bluff is surrounded by historic house museums, including two National Historic Landmark sites: The House on Ellicott Hill where the United States Flag was raised to claim Natchez from Spain; Rosalie Mansion, where General Grant headquartered during the Civil War. Natchez is the location of the Natchez National Historical Park, operated by the National Park Service, which owns the site of the original French Fort (1716) on the Bluff; The William Johnson House Museum, home to the famous pre-Civil War African-American diarist, “the Barber of Natchez”; and other sites.
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 4 July 9, 2019 SECTION III: DESCRIPTION OF THE LEASEHOLD AND DESIGN CONCEPTS The Bluff Sub-Area Plan of the Downtown Master Plan (Exhibit “B”) shows the Depot as a food, beverage, and entertainment venue flanked by two outdoor patio spaces. Amphitheater style steps will connect the dining patio to the walking trail on the edge of the Bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.
Area “A” – New Public Concrete Amphitheater (2900 sf) Area “B” – New Private Brick Paver or Concrete Patio (4,241 sf) Area “C” – Leasable Interior Space of the Depot (2,250 sf) Area “D” –Existing Private Brick Paver Patio (3,778 sf) Area “E” – Existing Public Brick Paver Plaza (9,515 sf)
Exclusive Leasehold: The leasable and common area plan (Exhibit “D”) gives an overview of the usable area for a proposer. The exclusive leasehold includes Areas “B”, “C”, and “D”, the building itself and the adjacent Patio Areas. The total interior/exterior exclusive use space is 10,250 sf +/-. The interior dining space Area “C” may be expanded by enclosing a portion of Area “B” with the prior approval of MDAH.
Public Use Areas: Depot customers will also have access to adjacent public areas “A” and “E”, which include the Amphitheater steps to the West (2900 sf), as well as the Trailhead Pavilion and triangular plaza to the East on Broadway Street (9,515 sf). The City may negotiate to include a portion of this public space in the exclusive leasehold. See Aerial Photograph of the Property, Layout of Leasable and Common Areas, and Concept Drawings, Exhibit “D.
SECTION IV: MISSISSIPPI LANDMARK DESIGNATION The Depot is designated as a Mississippi Landmark and alterations to the building are subject to review and approval by the Mississippi Department of Archives & History (“MDAH”). MDAH and the City will guide Proposers through this process. It is the Proposer’s obligation to have proposed Plans & Specifications approved by the MDAH. See Exhibits “E” and “F”.
SECTION V: ZONING The Depot’s current zoning is Waterfront Development District. A copy of the zoning ordinance is on the City’s website at: www.natchez.ms.us/DocumentCenter/View/259
SECTION VI: UTILITIES The Depot has access to all typical utilities including but not limited to water, sewage, natural gas, electricity, telephone, Wi-Fi, and fiber optic cable.
SECTION VII: PARKING AND ACCESS There is public parking in front of the Depot along Broadway Street, as well as on the side streets of Jefferson and Franklin.
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 5 July 9, 2019 SECTION VIII: PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS To be considered, the Proposal should contain the following sections in the same sequence as outlined below. Proposals will be evaluated on the criteria listed below and as described in Section X Selection Process:
1. A detailed description of the proposed concept or theme and how the Depot will be used to accomplish the intent of this RFP, including, but not limited to, a. a narrative description of the business concept, services, and products to be offered, and estimated seating capacity; b. a general floor diagram and other plans and visuals necessary to fully describe the proposed concept; c. the proposed hours of operation for weekdays and weekends, including the potential for extended operating hours; d. a potential staffing plan and, if possible, the number, type, and salary range of employment opportunities that may be created; e. a general entertainment plan and whether or not live music will be included f. a description of outdoor service and entertainment options, if any, for the west side of Depot facing the river; g. whether or not private events will be accommodated and if so, what type of private events might be contemplated; h. other potential business activities that will or might be conducted on the premises or in connection with events on the Bluff or at other nearby facilities.
2. Proposed lease terms, including, but not limited to, a. Annual Base Rent payable monthly of approximately Thirty-Six Thousand Dollars ($36,000) paid in equal monthly installments of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000). b. An initial lease term of at least five (5) years with multiple options to renew as long as the tenant is in compliance with the lease terms. After the initial lease term, a CPI not to exceed 5% will be applied. c. The Proposer shall pay all costs of utilities, waste collection, and other expenses associated with operating a business. d. The Proposer will be required to obtain a City privilege license for any business to be operated in the Depot. e. Any taxes, permanent fees or other costs associated with the project will be the responsibility of the Lessee. f. The City will consider proposals for a credit to be applied to a portion of the monthly lease payment for permanent capital improvements to the building/property made by the lessee and required for the renovation of the leased space. A minimum of $500 of the monthly rent shall not be credited. (1) The credit will be applied toward the monthly rent payment and any balance will be carried forward through the term of the lease. (2) The total credit is negotiable, but not to exceed $300,000.
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 6 July 9, 2019 (3) The scope and dollar amount of improvements considered for credit shall be clearly defined and agreed upon by the City and the lessee in advance of signing the lease and shall only include those improvements which are permanent in nature and are generally required to complete interior framing, finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and exterior improvements if any. (4) Movables such as furniture, tables, chairs, china, barware, utensils, wall decorations, office equipment, etc. will not qualify for the capital improvement credit. (5) With the termination of any lease, ALL improvements fixed to the property remain the property of the City.
3. Name of the person(s) or entity making the proposal, including a. Primary contact name and numbers, including address, telephone numbers (work, home, and cellular), and e-mail. b. A complete description of the Proposer’s entity (corporation, partnership, etc.) and identification of all parties involved in any manner in making the proposal. c. The names of all persons having a five percent (5%) or more interest, individually or as a group or entity, including address, telephone numbers (work, home, and cellular) and e-mail.
4. Statement of Qualifications and Experience a. Resume ́ of previous experience. b. A description of experience in producing similar projects, including development, construction, use, and operation.
5. Statement of Financial Capability and Responsibility a. Estimated cost of build out and/or improvements, including restaurant fixtures, furnishings, and equipment. b. If the project is to be financed, a formal executed Letter of Commitment by a commercial bank authorized to do business in the State of Mississippi. In the event the project will be financed solely by the Proposer, provide proof of such funding. c. Provide a formal commitment that the Proposer will obtain insurance coverage for the Proposer and the contractor. Include either a certificate of insurance or a quote from a company authorized to do business in the State of Mississippi for the following: builder’s risk, workers’ compensation, and general liability coverage in the minimum amount of two million dollars ($2,000,000). The City will be named as an additional insured on the builder's risk and general liability policies and the City will require a workers’ compensation waiver of subrogation waiving all rights of subrogation against the City.
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 7 July 9, 2019 d. In the event a Proposer is chosen to negotiate with the City, the Proposer will be required to produce an audited financial statement supporting the Proposer’s financial capability of undertaking this project, including current operating revenues and expenses, as well as a history of debt repayment. In the absence of audited financial statements, the City may accept other financial statements pending the approval of the City’s financial consultant. The financial statement will be evaluated in an Executive Session of the Board of Aldermen as part of the lease negotiations and will not be a part of this Proposal or the public record.
6. Time Periods for Commencing and Completing: Provide for an expeditious planning and construction schedule. The City prefers that the lessee be open for business within 180 consecutive calendar days of signing the lease fully understanding that undue circumstances might require the City to grant an extension.
7. A signed Proposal Form: A Proposal Form requiring your signature is Exhibit "F" to this RFP. By your signature, you acknowledge your understanding that: a. The City of Natchez shall not allow any liens on the property. b. Nothing in this section is intended to waive any approvals, permits, et cetera, from the City or any other government agency whether set forth herein or otherwise according to law. c. You understand and consent to the City’s total discretion to choose any proposal or reject any proposal on any basis. d. Your signature certifies that all the information in your proposal is true and correct.
SECTION IX: TIME SCHEDULE Below is an approximate guide to the process and schedule:
1. Issue Request for Proposal on ...... Tuesday, July 9, 2019
2. Pre-Proposal Conference ...... 10:00 AM, Monday, August 19, 2019
3. Last day for questions ...... 5:00 PM, Friday, August 30, 2019
4. Deadline: Proposals due by...... 12:00 Noon, Friday, November 1, 2019
5. Evaluation Period ………………...... November 2019
6. Qualified Proposals/Recommendations to BOA December 2019
7. Finalist interviews if requested...... December 2019
8. Notice of Selection of Proposal ...... December 2019
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 8 July 9, 2019 SECTION X: SELECTION PROCESS The Mayor will appoint an Evaluation Committee to make recommendations to the Board of Aldermen; however, the Evaluation Committee will not have the authority to award contracts.
The Evaluation Committee will review the Proposals for completeness and compliance with this RFP and will evaluate the proposals based on the criteria and grading system attached as Exhibit “H” to this RFP.
The Evaluation Committee will consist of six individuals (two Aldermen, one city employee, and three qualified individuals outside of City employ). The Committee may utilize advisors as necessary. Committee members and advisors will execute a conflict of interest disclaimer.
Once the Committee has completed its work, the Committee will submit a list of the qualified proposals, along with the Committee’s recommendations, evaluations, underlying worksheets, and all materials relied upon as a basis for its evaluation to James Johnston (“City Contact”). Mr. Johnson will make these materials available to the Mayor and the Board of Aldermen to review independently. The Board of Aldermen will make the final award.
The City reserves the right to negotiate a contract or contracts based upon the Proposal(s) received considering all the criteria as set forth in Section VIII and Exhibit “H” of this RFP.
SECTION XI: REJECTION OF PROPOSAL & WAIVER OF DEFICIENCIES The City of Natchez reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals on any basis. The City reserves the right to waive minor deficiencies, irregularities, or errors in the proposals.
SECTION XII: INQUIRIES, QUESTIONS AND CITY CONTACT All inquiries, questions, requests for interpretation, correction, or clarification must be submitted in writing, either by e-mail or by facsimile to the City Contact, and shall arrive not later than 5:00 PM Friday, August 30, 2019. All responses from the City shall be in writing, either by email, or facsimile. Additional information and copies of this RFP may be downloaded at https://www.natchez.ms.us/bids.aspx
James Johnston (“City Contact”) Robert C. Latham Director of Community Development City Attorney City Hall 320 Main Street 124 South Pearl Street Natchez, MS 39120 Natchez, MS 39120 Ph: (601) 445-7518 (601) 442-6495 Fx: (601) 445-6653 [email protected] [email protected]
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 9 July 9, 2019 SECTION XIII: PROPOSAL DELIVERY AND DEADLINE
1. All Proposals should be directed
Charles Crump, City Clerk City Hall 124 Pearl St Natchez, MS 39120 (601) 445-7518 [email protected]
2. Eight (8) copies of the RFP must be presented and one electronic copy (thumb drive or email) preferably in a single envelope or package marked “RFP - City of Natchez Broadway Street Depot.” 3. All proposals must be received in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Natchez, 124 South Pearl Street, Natchez, Mississippi, 39120, no later than 12:00 Noon, Friday, November 1, 2019. If an electronic copy is received via email (in lieu of a thumb drive) it must be received no later than 12:00 Noon, Friday, November 1, 2019. 4. If sent by mail, the responsibility for delivering a proposal to the City before the deadline is wholly upon the Proposer. Proposals received after the specified time and date will not be considered. The City will not be responsible for failure of the United States Postal Service, private courier, or any other delivery means to deliver a proposal to the appointed place at the specified time in order to be considered. Late proposals shall be returned unopened.
SECTION XIV. LEASE AGREEMENT Subsequent to the selection, a finalized lease agreement between the City and the Proposer must be approved by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Natchez.
SECTION XV. PUBLIC RECORDS Pursuant to Miss. Code Ann. Section 25-61-1 et seq, all proposals shall be considered as public record and shall be available to the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Natchez during normal business hours. Proprietary commercial and financial information may be exempted from public access pursuant to Miss. Code Ann. Section 79-23-1.
RFP ENDS HERE - REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf 10 July 9, 2019
Exhibits
Exhibit “A” Downtown Master Plan A-1
Exhibit “B” Downtown Master Plan: B-1 Bluff Sub Area
Exhibit “C” Historic and Contemporary C-1 Photographs of the Depot
Exhibit “D” Leasable & Common Areas: Aerial D-1 Photography & Layout
Exhibit “E” MDAH Approval of Modifications E-1 to Depot: Possible Location Options for Bar, Kitchen, and Bathrooms
Exhibit “F” Commercial Kitchen Exhaust F-1 Information
Exhibit “G” Request for Proposal Form G-1
Exhibit “H” Evaluation Criteria H-1
07_09_19_Final_Depot_RFP_2.pdf Exhibit “A” – Downtown Master Plan
The official Downtown Master Plan, adopted May 2018, is available for download at
www.natchez.ms.us/DocumentCenter/View/438/Downtown-Master-Plan
Depot is here Exhibit “B” – Master Plan: Bluff Sub Area
Exhibit “C” – Historic & Contemporary Photos; Conceptual Drawings Existing View: Facing Broadway Street
Proposed Broadway Street View: Example showing proposed sidewalk enhancements Existing View: Facing Bluff
Bluff Side: Concept shows outdoor dining area Exhibit “D” – Aerial Photos; Conceptual Drawings; Layout of Leasable Areas
Depot Existing View: Aerial is here
Bluff View
Concept View: Aerial
Facing Broadway Street Layout of Leasable “A” – New Public Concrete Amphitheater (2900 sf) “B” – New Private Brick Paver Pa o (4,241 sf) & Public Areas “C” – Leasable Interior Space of the Depot (2,250 sf) “D” –Exis ng Private Brick Paver Pa o (3,778 sf) “E” – Exis ng Public Brick Pave Plaza (9,515 sf)
Exclusive Leasehold: The exclusive leasehold includes Areas B, C and D: the building and the adjacent Pa o Areas. The total interior/exterior exclusive use space is 10,250 sf +/-‐ .
Common Areas: Depot customers will also have access to adjacent public areas A and E, which includes the riverside amphitheater steps to the West (2900sf) and the Trailhead Pavilion and triangular brick Pa o to the East on Broadway Street (9,515sf). Note: The City may nego ate to include a por on of the public space in the exclusive leasehold.
Exhibit “E” – MDAH Approval Required for Depot Modifications
The City’s intent is that the Depot will be a food, beverage and entertainment venue. As such, responsive proposals will most likely contemplate a bar, a kitchen, and restrooms for patrons.
This section contains suggestions regarding physical modifications to the Depot to accommodate these uses that may be acceptable to the Mississippi Department of Archives & History (“MDAH”).
The Depot is a Mississippi Landmark. Alterations to the building are subject to review and • • approval by MDAH. • The Antiquities Law of Mississippi (39-7-et al. of the Mississippi Code of 1972, as • amended) requires a permit from MDAH for all alterations to designated and potential Mississippi Landmark properties. • The process will be explained in the pre-proposal conference that includes representatives • of MDAH. • It shall be the Proposer’s obligation to have its plans and specifications for potential • alterations to the building approved by MDAH. • According to its policies, MDAH reviews projects using the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
MDAH Contacts:
Katherine Anderson Landmarks Coordinator for the State of Mississippi 601-576-6912 [email protected]
Mingo Tingle Chief, Technical Preservation Services 601-576-6952 [email protected]
[Note: In 2015-16, prior to the City’s adoption of its official Downtown Master Plan identifying the Depot as the hub of the Broadway Street Entertainment District, MDAH approved plans for remodeling the Depot’s interior as an office space. The plans did not contemplate the use of the Depot as a food, beverage, and entertainment venue; therefore, they do not include a bar, a kitchen, and dining room considerations. However, the plans do illustrate where new walls, if any, would be acceptable to MDAH. The plans are available for download on the City’s website for informational purposes only. Proposers may, but are not required to utilize these plans. See Alternates 1, 2, and 3 as set forth in the Plans and Specifications prepared by Smith, Seckman, Reid, Inc. as part of Federal Aid Project No. STP-0340-00 (036)/LPA/106674-701000 for construction of Yazoo Valley & Miss. Railroad Depot Renovations.] Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH. the MDAH.
11
Exhibit “E” – MDAH Approval Required for Depot Modifications
Possible Location of a Bar, Kitchen, and Restrooms: In the diagram of the Depot’s interior (below), the rectangular areas represent the three areas where the Depot’s original terrazzo floors are intact. Each area is surround by a black terrazzo border, which indicates where the orginal walls may have been located; however, rebuilding the walls is not required. An open floor plan would be acceptable.
The areas shown with an “X” represent spaces where there is no existing terrazzo floor. These are the spaces where MDAH would be most likely to approve modifications for plumbing for bar, kitchen, and restrooms needs (basically sinks, toilets, and other drainage). MDAH would most likely reject a plan that required penetrating the terrazzo floor for plumbing.
Location of a Commercial Kitchen: The greatest potential for a commercial kitchen is in the northern end of the Depot, which currently has a split level floor that is not original to the building. This raised floor could be lowered in order to accommodate a commercial kitchen in this space. This would allow the reestablishment of entrance and exit doors to the kitchen area for deliveries and safety. Also, this would create a generous crawl space under the kitchen for storage and mechanical needs. See the following Report from the Historic Natchez Foundation. Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “E” – MDAH Approval Required for Depot Modifications
The Evolution of the Building: Split Level is Not Original
The following information was prepared by Mimi Miller of the Historic Natchez Foundation (Broadway, N, 200, building evolution, Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad).
(HNF Report continues next page)
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “E” – MDAH Approval Required for Depot Modifications
(HNF Report continues next page)
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “E” – MDAH Approval Required for Depot Modifications
(End of HNF Report)
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
The City’s intent is that the Depot will be a food, beverage and entertainment venue. This covers a wide range of food possibilities from a morning offering of coffees and pastries that might require only a microwave or an oven; or fried bacon and eggs or beignets, which would require an exhaust solution. For lunch and supper, a simple sandwich and salad menu would not require an exhaust system, but burgers and fried catfish would produce smoke and grease-laden air.
Venting exhaust through the roof or the wall, as well as installing mushroom fans, grease traps, or catwalks on the exterior of the building, would most likely not be approved by the the Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH). However, a Pollution Control Unit (PCU) in the Attic would filter the grease and smoke- laden air produced by cooking on a commercial range BEFORE it venting it as clean air through ductwork inside the brick chimney.
Placement of a PCU in the Attic: The two keys are 1) the brick chimney, which has an 11x11 opening, and 2) the very spacious Attic.
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for the Depot: Pollution Control Units
The research supplied with this RFP on Pollution Control Units was obtained from the team at Air Quality Engineering, a leading manufacturer of Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Air Cleaning Systems located in Minnesota.
Contact: Stephen C. Sickle, Enterprise Account Executive Air Quality Engineering 7140 Northland Drive North Brooklyn Park, MN 55428 Phone: 763-531-9823 ext. 149 [email protected] www.air-quality-eng.com
Air Quality Engineering is a MANUFACTURER of Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Air Cleaning Systems. We have thousands of successful installations all over the world including: AT.MOSPHERE @ the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Café MOMA (Museum of Modern Art NYC), Panda Express, IHOP, Buca di Beppo, Five Guys Burgers, Chipotle, Baccarat Hotel NYC, New Yorker Hotel, just to name a few.
About Air Quality Engineering and our Commercial Kitchen Exhaust products: • USA manufactured, Privately-owned company • AQE has been providing quality filtration solutions for over 45 years • Very competitively priced solutions • Electrostatic Precipitator technology, washable cells (green solution by eliminating media filters going to landfills) • Shorter equipment lead-times, up to ½ that of our competitors • Smaller footprint, great solution for space limited projects • Modular or skidded solutions • Lower static pressure requirements • Consistent airflow • No smoke backing up into the kitchen due to loaded filters • Lower cost of ownership by eliminating costly replacement filters • Only Auto-wash system to have an oscillating and traversing wash arm to more effectively & efficiently wash the cells (uses less detergent and water for cleaning) • Certifications and approvals include New York City MEA 96-04-E and City of Los Angeles RR 8452 • Please review AQE’s Kitchen Exhaust brochure, Submittal Specifications as well as this link to a Kitchen Exhaust article by an AQE territory manager. ( http://www.air-quality- eng.com/buyer-resources/articles/commercial-kitchen-exhaust/ )
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
Q & A with Air Quality Engineering Regarding Commercial Pollution Control Units for the Depot:
1. Clean air only would be vented through the 11x11 brick chimney. Does the PCU system require a fan or any other structure that would be seen to be installed on the chimney or the roof of the Depot?
NO. The fan is inside the building. It is part of the PCU (Pollution Control Unit). There would be no mushroom style fan or other apparatus on the roof.
2. Does the PCU system require a vent to pull in make up or replacement air?
YES. That is usually required by local code. The make up air could be sucked in through the louvered window in the attic. Typically, the make up air requirement is a little less than the CFM. It puts the building under negative pressure (suction) drawing fresh air into the building. The hood manufacturers often sell make up air systems as part of the hood system. The grates above the hood are for the make up air.
3. What size PCU would be required for the 2,250 sf Depot?
The smallest PCU unit offered by AQE handles up to 2,000 CFM. Here are the dimensions:
Length: 123 inches long (includes the fan and the odor module and the auto clean unit) Depth: 32.45 inches Height: 42 inches high
If there is no concern about odor, then the system can be purchased without the odor unit which reduces the price. Larger systems are available as well.
4. Would the chimney need to be lined with ductwork even though it is venting CLEAN AIR?
YES. Typically most codes require using a grease duct going into and out of the PCU. This is duct work that is rated for ventilation for kitchen hood ventilation and specifically designed to vent grease-laden air. Needs to be able to sustain fire. Consult a local company that deals with ducting used for exhausting commercial kitchen hoods.
YES. Typically it must be welded so that is air tight but some codes allow fire caulking.
YES. The Vent itself can be round. It does not need to be square.
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
5. What size hood should be considered for a commercial kitchen at the Depot?
The 11x11 interior dimension of the chimney limits CFM (airflow needed to drive the hood) although you could drive air through the ductwork harder with more static or pressure via the fan even though chimney is only 11x11. Typically, there is a certain CFM recommended per foot of hood length. The hood manufacturer sets the recommended CFM. (Quick internet research shows that It is typically between 100 and 300 CFM per foot).
— a 6 ft hood would need 600 to 1800 CFM. — an 8 ft hood would need 800 to 2400 CFM.
You also have to take into account the amount of heat produced by the cooking surface, measured in BTU (British thermal units)
6. Is a Fire suppressant system required? YES. A fire suppressant system or Ansul System is required. The building code and fire code require it. Contact the fire marshall.
7. What is the cost of maintaining the system? Pay for detergent for cleaning the unit, Pay for water for cleaning the unit, Pay for periodic inspection, Pay for replacement carbon 1 to 3 times a year.
8. Do other manufacturers make PCU systems?
YES.
This list is a sampling of manufacturers that compete in the PCU arena. The list is supplied by the City of Natchez for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement of any company or system by the City of Natchez or MDAH. • Air Quality Engineering: www.air-quality-eng.com • Captive Aire: www.captiveaire.com View: www.youtube.com/watch?v=td8gBVVevvI • Thermotek: www.thermotek.com • Accurex: www.accurex.com/products/pollution-control-units • Ventilation Direct: www.ventilationdirect.com • Air Cleaning Technology: www.aircleaningtechnology.com
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “F” – Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Solutions for Depot
Disclaimer: This information is not an endorsement or guarantee of any particular plan, system, product, company, or solution by the City of Natchez. It is offered as guidance to the Proposer for developing a plan that might be acceptable to MDAH. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have plans and modifications to the Depot approved by the MDAH.
Exhibit “H”- Evaluation Criteria
CITY OF NATCHEZ Evaluation Criteria Entertainment Venue at the Old Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad Depot
Points Guidance 10 Couldn’t imagine a better response 8-9 Excellent, insightful response 6-7 More than adequate response 4-5 Adequate response, no special insights 2-3 Inadequate response 0-1 Totally inadequate response 0 No response
Instructions: Rate each question 0-10 based on the above chart. Points
A. Proposed concept and theme: 50 pts Rate 1 – Concept: How well does the description of the business concept, 10 points services, products, and estimated seating capacity support the City’s stated intent to create a food, beverage, and entertainment venue that is the hub of the Broadway Entertainment District? Rate 1 – Operating Hours: How well do the proposed hours of operation for 10 points weekdays and weekends, including the potential for extended (early morning, late night, or 7 days a week) operating hours, support the City’s intent to create a food, beverage, and entertainment venue that is the hub of the Broadway Entertainment District? Rate 1 – Job Creation: How well does the potential staffing plan and the number, 10 points type, and salary range of employment opportunities support the City’s goal of increased employment opportunities in Downtown? Rate 1 – Entertainment: How well does the general entertainment plan, 10 points including the potential for live music, outdoor entertainment, special events, private events, fundraisers or other activities in connection with festivals and events on or near the Bluff, support the City’s intent to make the Depot the hub of the Broadway Entertainment District ? Rate 1 – Engage the Bluff and the River: How well does the overall business 10 points concept and general entertainment plan support the City’s goal of engaging the Bluff and the River view location? B. Proposed lease terms, including but not limited to 10 pts Rate 1 – Rent/Term/Capital Credit: How well does the proposed rent, lease 10 points term, and capital investment credit approximate the City’s preferred rent of $36,000 annually (paid in monthly installments of $3,000); an initial lease term of at least five (5) years; and a capital investment credit not to exceed a total of $300,000 with $500/month not subject to credit?
Exhibit H Depot Evaluation Criteria 070919 v8
C. Qualifications and Experience 20 pts Rate 1 – Strength of Resume: Does the Proposer’s Resume ́ of previous experience 10 points indicate that the Proposer has been successful in previous ventures? Rate 1 – Experience on similar projects: Does the description of experience in 10 points producing similar projects, including development, construction, use, and operation, indicate that the Proposer has previously succeeded in similar ventures? D. Financial Strength 40 pts Rate 1 – Cost: Does the estimated cost of build out and/or improvements, 10 points including fixtures, furnishings and equipment, indicate that the Proposer values quality and has a good understanding of the scope of the project? Rate 1 – Financing: Does the formal executed Letter of Commitment for the 10 points financing of the project by a commercial bank authorized to do business in the State of Mississippi demonstrate that the appropriate level of financing will be secured? In the event the project will be financed solely by the Proposer, does the funding proof reliably demonstrate that the necessary funds are available? Rate 1 – Insurance: Does the Proposer’s formal commitment to obtain insurance 10 points coverage for the Proposer and the contractor include either a certificate of insurance or a quote from a company authorized to do business in the State of Mississippi for the following: builder’s risk, workers’ compensation (with waiver of subrogation), and general liability coverage in the minimum amount of two million dollars ($2,000,000) as required in Section VIII (5)(c) of this Request for Proposal?
Rate 1 – [BOA will review and score Financial Capability in Executive Session 10 points with aid of financial advisors. The financials will not be part of the public record; however, the score will be part of the record.]
Financial Capability: Does the audited financial statement or other financials approved by the City’s financial consultant, including current operating revenues and expenses and a history of debt repayment, support the Proposer’s financial capability of undertaking this project?
E. Time Periods for Commencing and Completing: 10 pts Rate 1 – Opening Date: Does the Proposal provide for an expeditious planning 10 points and construction schedule? The city prefers that the Depot be open for business within 180 calendar days of signing of the lease?
MAXIMUM TOTAL POINTS = 130
Exhibit H Depot Evaluation Criteria 070919 v8