Snow Removal and Landscaping Services

SERVICES REQUIRED:

The Prairie Island Indian Community (“PIIC”), a federally recognized Indian tribe, is seeking proposals for snow removal and landscaping services.

This Request for Bids (“RFB”) and services are governed, as applicable, by the laws of PIIC, including the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance.

QUALIFICATIONS:

PIIC will accept bids from qualified snow removal and landscape services individuals or companies with capacity to meet the Scope of Services.

The successful bidder must show proof of any necessary licensure.

The successful bidder is required to carry acceptable insurance. A certificate indicating coverage levels must be submitted and accepted before a service agreement is signed.

Upon selection and pursuant to a service agreement, the successful bidder must agree to indemnify and hold PIIC harmless from any and all claims, demands, damages, actions, or causes of action, arising or to arise, against PIIC by reason of the successful bidder’s performance of the agreement and use of any process, machinery, or material used in the performance of the agreement.

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

All services will be performed at PIIC’s senior living facility, Tinta Wita Tipi, located at

24240 130th Avenue, Welch, MN 55089.

Snow removal:

• The successful bidder must furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and services to perform plowing, salting, shoveling, and snow removal services as described and per industry standards. The successful bidder is expected to provide services after two (2) inches or more of snowfall or upon a call‐out request by designated Tinta Winta Tipi staff. Due to the need to have access, the successful bidder must be able to provide services in a timely manner from emergency walkways and driveways/parking lots to ensure continual access to these areas throughout the duration of snowfall.

Landscaping:

• The successful bidder must furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and services to perform landscaping services per industry standards, including:

o Spring clean-up: Removal of debris, such as leaves, dead branches, dead plants, etc., that accumulated over the winter.

o Bed/Lawn maintenance: Routine removal of weeds from decorative beds and lawn area, in adherence with PIIC’s chemical weed control preferences.

o Weekly lawn mowing and trimming of bushes and overgrown shrubs, including disposal of waste.

o Fall clean up: Leaf collection and removal of dead perennial materials.

o Mulch replacement (only as needed).

SUBMISSIONS:

Submissions should be sent via email to courtney.vanvooren@fairview.org, by May 3, 2024.

Bidders can include a joint bid on snow removal and landscape services, separate bids, or bid on only snow removal or only landscape services.

Bids should outline payment terms and timing details. The successful bidder will be required to enter into a service agreement memorializing terms and conductions.

PIIC reserves the right to reject submissions where the available evidence or information does not satisfy PIIC that the bidder is qualified to properly carry out the Scope of Services consistent with industry standards.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

If you have questions related to this request or to submit a bid, please contact Courtney Van Vooren, Tinta Wita Tipi Executive Director, at courtney.vanvooren@fairview.org, or 651-385-3535.

Natural Area Restoration

Project Contact: Keanna Krueger; Keanna.krueger@piic.org; (651) 764-3957

DESCRIPTION

Prairie Island Indian Community (“PIIC”) is seeking to restore and reconstruct several grassland units on Tribal land. This work will increase our native prairie acreage and connectivity throughout our grassland network and reduce non-native vegetation challenges.

Bids will be considered based on cost, contractor integrity, compliance with public policy, record of past performance, financial and technical resources, and the best overall value to PIIC. PIIC reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids. This request for bid should not be construed as an offer, contract, or commitment of any kind; nor is it a commitment to pay any costs by the bidder in preparation of a bid.

This RFP and the contract for services will be governed, as applicable, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community, including the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance. Contractor must be eligible to work under grant-funded programming and be able to comply with all grant requirements if engaged (PIIC can provided detailed requirements upon request).

PIIC is requesting a five part bid to complete the projects listed below. All installation projects should be completed by October 31, 2025. Maintenance for 2025 installations will continue through 2027 (Figure 3). Site visits are encouraged and available upon request. See Figure 2 for bid template.

1) Unit 14- Herbicide Applications (16 acres)

2) Unit 15- Prairie Seeding – no-till drill or broadcast (14 acres)

3) Unit 16- Brush-mow and follow-up treatment (4 acres)

4) Unit 17- Prairie Mow (74 acres)

5) Minor Prairie Installation – 5 units (11.1 acres)

REQUEST FOR BIDS FOR

NATURAL AREA RESTORATION

SITE INFORMATION

1) Unit 14- Herbicide Applications (16 acres)

• This is a 16 acre restoration site (Figure 1A) that has been brush mowed and/or foliar treated annually for the past several years primarily for Amur maple. These populations persist along with scattered Siberian elm and Common buckthorn, all of which will be treated with triclopyr (and the appropriate surfactant) utilizing a combination of selective and broadcast application methods as needed based on the density of desirable native species. Herbicide application should take place early august to minimize non-target impacts.

• There is undesirable vegetation throughout the site, primarily grasses, including smooth brome and reed-canary grass (RCG) which should be spot treated in early summer and again in early fall.

• Great care should be taken to protect desirable species, including but not limited to, black cherry, choke cherry, red osier dogwood, and wild rose.

2) Unit 15- Prairie Seeding (14 acres)

• Intent to convert this 14 acre unit (Figure 1C) into a grass-dominant wet-mesic prairie/meadow. It is a wetter site due to flooding/precipitation so equipment choice may need to be considered.

• We intend to burn the unit (in-house) prior to seeding. No-till drill planting is preferred, but if it is not feasible, we will allow broadcast seeding on the site. We will provide the seed and prefer a spring planting if flood conditions permit, if not, we’d need to delay until fall.

• If the seeding occurs in the spring as planned, we would aim for at least two establishment mows throughout the first growing season.

• The site will also require spot-treatment of RCG in the spring and fall.

3) Unit 16- Brush-mow and follow up treatment (4 acres)

• This 4 acre unit (Figure 1C) is consistently overtaken by volunteer trees, primarily Siberian elm. Depending on flood conditions and moisture levels, this site will be brush mowed in the spring or early summer.

• Following a spring/early summer mow, the site will be evaluated for the best follow up treatment. Follow up treatment will be one of the following:

a. Treatment of volunteer trees with Triclopyr and 24-D.

b. Site prep spray and re-seeding.

4) Unit 17- Prairie Mow (74 acres)

• This 74 acre reconstruction (Figure 1A) will require 1-2 mows in 2025 (depending on flood conditions and duration).

• This site was seeded in the spring of 2024. We are tentatively considering re-seeding since the seed may have been lost following extensive flooding in 2024.

5) Minor Prairie Installations – 5 units (11.1 acres)

• Bid for new prairie installations should include all expenses for the sites below including but not limited to site prep (mow/herbicide), seed (grasses/forbs/cover crop), crew hours, planting, etc. Installation should take place in the spring.

• Install 1- Convert 4.5 acre strip (Figure 1A) from agricultural use to prairie buffer to reduce flooding impacts, nutrient leaching, and erosion.

• Install 2- Convert 1.6 acre patch of smooth brome to prairie (Figure 1A). Will require full conversion with herbicide, disc, seeding, etc.

• Install 3- Convert 1.2 acre area (Figure 1B) currently utilized for bison hay to prairie to connect existing prairie units.

• Install 4- Plant two-part section totaling 0.8 acres (Figure 1B)

a. Protects a wellhead

b. Improves visibility along field road (issues with current slope and road curvature).

• Install 5- Convert 3 acre smooth brome area (Figure 1B) into prairie to connect existing

FROM:
Gabe Miller, Environmental Program Manager
Land and Environment Dept.

Prairie Island Indian Community
5636 Sturgeon Lake Road
Welch, MN 55089
Work Phone: (651) 764-3957

DATE:
February 17, 2025

BIDS DUE:
No later than 5:00 PM
Email: gabriel.miller@piic.org
March 14, 2025

Thank you for your interest in working with MNRH’s cannabis cultivation operation at the Prairie Island Indian Community. Please complete the following application to help us better understand your background and how you can contribute to our team.

Cultivation Technician - Hourly Job Description 

Cultivation Technician - Hourly Application

Kindly submit the completed application and provide a resume via email to Justin Hesse at justin@mnriverholdings.com

Additional employment opportunities for Island Pezi, the Community-owned cannabis dispensary next to Dakota Station, are open at the link below!

These can be viewed here: Island Pezi Careers Page

Curriculum Developer Consultant

1.0 Intent:

The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to solicit individuals who has the experience to Native American Curriculum, and Language, and Culture. As this was pass by Minnesota Legislation to develop Dakota and Ojibwe curriculum for all 331 districts in the state of Mni Sota.

2.0 Introduction:

This development of Indigenous Education for All (IEFA} for the State of Mni Sota is a requirement for all tribes In the state to have their input on Dakota and Ojibwe curriculum. We welcome an individual who will be interested in getting the Tinta Wita Dakota Community actively involved to express the Tinta Wita Oyate version. With 331 school districts in the state this project will depend on all tribes working together.

3.0 Scope of Services:

The following list requires an individual to fulfil the needs of the Tinta Wita Dakota Community.

1. Focus on Tinta Wita History and Culture and Language

2. Strong understanding of how curriculum and resources have a big part of this project.

3. Utilize collaboration with Tribal elders, membership, youth, language teacher and manager and Education Director.

4. Experience in working with other Dakota Tribes in the State

5. Individuals must possess strong writing and communication skills/ and the ability to work independently

6. Able to make reports for the Education Director by weekly and monthly report on meetings and progress of IEFA. Reports are needed on the last day of each month.

7. Must be able to attend meetings in person or zoom when needed with IEFA and PIIC and Education Director

8. Hand in traveling and overnight expenses required for your presence at IEFA and tribal meetings.

9. Must have experience to speaking and presentation for Tinta Wita Oyate

4.0 Application

Individuals must respond in a RFP form to become a Curriculum Developer Consultant for Tinta Wita Oyate.

5.0 Preference:

Consultant is knowledgeable in Tinta Wita History, Culture, Language and resources.

Download the PDF of this RFP here!

Educational Guides

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Prairie Island Indian Community

Educational Guides

SERVICES REQUESTED:

The Prairie Island Indian Community (“PIIC”), is seeking Community members to serve as Educational Guides to lead tours of the Buffalo Project and the Bark Lodge located on the Prairie Island Indian Reservation.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Community currently offers educational tours to various groups and individuals that are intended to share about the Community’s Buffalo Project and Bark Lodge. These range from school groups, visiting Tribes and organizations, and elected leaders from Federal or State government. The Guides would lead the tours, educate, and share knowledge about the Prairie Island Indian Community, the buffalo relatives, and Dakota culture and history.

The goal is to engage 3-5 Community members who can be Educational Guides on an as-needed or on-call basis. There is currently a script that will be provided, however, the Guides will be asked to contribute to further developing the script and materials to share on the tours.

These are independent contractor positions, and the selected Guides will be expected to enter into an independent contractor agreement with the Community. This RFP and independent contractor agreement are governed, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Know, or ability to learn, information regarding the Buffalo Project and Bark Lodge, in order to share it with tour attendees;
• Must be at least 18 years old;
• Must pass a federal criminal background check in compliance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act and the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act; and
• Ability to be available on an “on-call basis” to give tours during the week and/or weekend.

COMPENSATION:

• A stipend or compensation will be awarded

SUBMISSIONS:

Submissions in response to this RFP should include a letter of interest that includes any relevant experience, or why the responding Community member should be selected.

Submissions should be sent via email to TribalAdministrator@piic.org. Submissions will be accepted until the need is filled.

If you have questions related to this Request for Submissions, please contact Margo Bellanger, Deputy Tribal Administrator, at (651) 267-4057.

This RFP and the contract for services will be governed, as applicable, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community, including the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance.

Field Technician

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Prairie Island Indian Community

Field Technician

SERVICES REQUIRED:

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC), a federally recognized Indian tribe, is seeking proposals from Independent Contractors to work with Land and Environment as a part-time Field Technician.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The PIIC will accept proposals from interested individuals. The applicant must be able to work outdoors effectively with a team and independently with minimal supervision. Applicants must be comfortable working with small boats/canoes.

SCOPE OF WORK:

Assist the Prairie Island Land & Environment staff in conducting field work and data management with tasks including, but not limited to, displaced (invasive) species management, wildlife monitoring, natural resource surveys, GIS mapping, data entry, and other tasks as assigned. This position is part-time- up to 30 hours per week for six months. Skills in plant identification and small engine experience are preferred. Training will be provided.

OVERVIEW:

The contractor will be responsible for:

1. Surveying terrestrial and aquatic plants and utilizing mapping software to record data
2. Assisting the implementation of management actions (pull/dig, cut/mow, spray)
3. Recording data for artificial nesting structures
4. Submitting weekly reports of hours and accomplishments
5. Other duties as assigned

SUBMISSIONS:

Submissions in response to this RFP should include a letter of interest, resume, and three references. The letter of interest should outline hourly fee expectations.

IMPORTANT CONTRACT INFORMATION:

Proposals should be sent via email to Keanna.Krueger@piic.org.

If you have questions related to this request or to submitting a proposal, please contact Keanna Krueger, PIIC Invasive Species Coordinator, at 651-764-3957.

Flowering Rush Monitor

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Prairie Island Indian Community

Flowering Rush Monitor

SERVICES REQUIRED:

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC), a federally recognized Indian tribe, is seeking proposals from Independent Contractors to monitor wild rice beds for Flowering Rush.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The PIIC will accept proposals from interested individuals. The applicant must be able to work outdoors effectively with a team and independently with minimal supervision. Applicants must be comfortable working with small boats/canoes.

SCOPE OF WORK:

Flowering rush is an aquatic invasive species from Europe and Asia. It spreads through root rhizomes and is known to have many ecological impacts including suppressing native vegetation. Flowering rush was first found in the rice beds in 2023. To protect psiƞ, the Flowering Rush Monitor will be responsible for identification, data collection, and targeted removal of flowering rush. Data collection will entail use of Field Maps to record information including date, location, abundance, and implementation of management actions. This position is part-time- up to 20 hours per week from June through September (17 Weeks). Skills in plant identification are preferred. Training will be provided.

OVERVIEW:

The contractor will be responsible for:

1. Surveying aquatic plants and utilizing mapping software to record data
2. Implementing management actions (pull/dig plants out)
3. Submitting weekly reports of hours and accomplishments

SUBMISSIONS:

Submissions in response to this RFP should include a letter of interest, resume, and three references. The letter of interest should outline hourly fee expectations.

IMPORTANT CONTRACT INFORMATION:

Proposals should be sent via email to Keanna.Krueger@piic.org

If you have questions related to this request or to submitting a proposal, please contact Keanna Krueger, PIIC Invasive Species Coordinator, at 651-764-3957.

Part-Time Registered Dietitian Services

Request for Proposal (RFP) - Part-Time Registered Dietitian Services for Prairie Island Health Center

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC) is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced registered dietitians with current credentials for the State of Minnesota to provide part-time services specifically tailored to individuals with diabetes at the Prairie Island Health Center (PIHC). The selected dietitian will be responsible for delivering expert nutritional guidance, education, and support to our patients, promoting optimal health outcomes for those managing diabetes, developing detailed nutritional care plans; providing nutritional consulting services to patients; assessing nutritional needs related to several types of diabetes; interviewing techniques and patient care management; providing nutritional education to individuals, families, and community groups. In addition, the contractor will be responsible for oversight of the federal grant program Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI). This includes completion of all required SDPI training, execution of all project-related activities, timely submission of reports and evaluations, and rigorous expenditure monitoring to guarantee compliance with Indian Health Service standards. This RFP and the contract for services will be governed, as applicable, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community, including the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance.

Project Overview:

PIIC is a reputable healthcare provider committed to delivering high-quality care to our community, with a focus on the unique healthcare needs of the Native American population. We are currently seeking a Part-Time Registered Dietitian with expertise in diabetes management to join our team and provide services two days a week at the Prairie Island Health Center. Work involves delivering nutritional services to the population as part of comprehensive healthcare program, and providing and evaluating nutritional services for individuals and program on continuing basis. The work has direct effects on quality of life and health for medical patients and their families and the results also affect the promotion of health and the prevention of disease for all ages of the population served and improvements in nutritional services or programs provided to the local community.

Scope of Services:

The selected Part-Time Registered Dietitian will be required to perform the following services:

1. Conduct nutritional assessments for patients with diabetes.
2. Develop personalized dietary plans to manage and prevent complications associated with diabetes.
3. Provide individual and group nutritional counseling sessions.
4. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals within the clinic to ensure integrated and comprehensive patient care.
5. Stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in diabetes management and nutrition.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

1. Registered Dietitian credentials with current licensure for the State of Minnesota.
2. Demonstrated experience in working with patients diagnosed with diabetes.
3. Knowledge of and sensitivity to the cultural and health needs of the Native American population.
4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Availability to work two days a week at the PIHC.
6. Eligible to work under grant-funded programming, and able to comply with all program requirements if engaged (PIIC can provide detailed requirements upon request).

Proposal Submission:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their proposals, the proposal should include the following:

1. Cover letter expressing interest and summarizing relevant experience.
2. Resume detailing qualifications and experience.
3. Description of previous experience working with diabetes patients.
4. Proposed schedule for providing services two days a week at the Prairie Island Health Center.
5. Proof of current Registered Dietitian credentials for the State of Minnesota.
6. Valid Driver’s License.
7. Three professional references.

Please submit your proposal to Sarah Gorter at sarah.gorter@piic.org

Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Relevant experience and expertise in diabetes management.
2. Cultural competence and understanding of the unique healthcare needs of the Native American population.
3. Proposed schedule and availability.
4. Proof of current RD credentials for the State of Minnesota.
5. Professional references.

Prairie Island Indian Community Dakota Cultural Consultant

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Prairie Island Indian Community Dakota Cultural Consultant

SERVICES REQUIRED:

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC), a federally recognized Indian tribe, is seeking proposals from Independent Contractors for Dakota Cultural Consultant 30 Hours per Week.

QUALIFICATIONS: Required

• Demonstrate cultural competence in area of high need
• Must be able to work hours that vary to meet program need; i.e. evenings or weekends
• Availability and willingness to travel (short-term and extended trips) as needed
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to maintain strict standards of confidentiality
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook)
• Ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision
• Successful experience working in a team setting
• Sensitive to Native American Culture
• Must pass drug screen (UA) and a federal criminal background check in compliance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act and the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act
• Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability

SCOPE OF WORK:

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties and responsibilities are not meant to be all inclusive and may be adjusted to meet business needs.

• Assist with all Dakota language classes as needed by the Dakota Language Instructor
• Continue to work on personal fluency in Dakota language
• Develop coursework and programs on Dakota Culture
• Submit weekly reports and journaling to Education Director
• Work with visiting Elders and Prairie Island Elders
• Assist in all events that require cultural assistance
• Help with all cultural requests by Tribal Council
• Support other departments’ Cultural needs if approved by Education Director
• Other duties as assigned
• Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time with occasional amounts of standing or walking

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

REQUIRED TRAINING:

• Effectively Handling Harassment training
• Any position-related training as determined by department manager

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting, but may include occasional outdoor activities
• All Prairie Island Indian Community employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship
• The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance applies to this and all employment opportunities for the Community.

DISCLAIMER AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

SUBMISSIONS:

Submissions in response to this RFP should include a letter of interest, resume, and three references. The letter of interest should outline hourly fee expectations.

IMPORTANT CONTRACT INFORMATION:

Proposals should be sent via email to JThunderHawk@piic.org

If you have questions related to this request or to submitting a proposal, please contact Jim ThunderHawk PIIC Dakota Language Manager at 651-385-4153.

Request for Proposal (RFP): BPI Certified Insulation Contractors for PIIC Home Energy Program

Project Overview

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC or Tribe) is a Federally Recognized Tribe in Minnesota. PIIC is providing a Home Energy Program to PIIC tribal community members that includes energy audits and energy-efficient, carbon-reducing technology upgrades for tribal homes to address environmental and public health issues and support the Tribe’s net zero emissions goal. One hundred homes are eligible to participate in this program, which is planned to run through the end of 2027. These homes are located on tribal land near Welch, Minnesota and are a mix of single-family site-built homes and manufactured homes.

PIIC has hired a program implementer, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), who is responsible for delivering this program on PIIC’s behalf. CEE is seeking to hire credentialed insulation contractors to fulfill the program needs for PIIC. Details about the scope of work and the minimum qualifications that contractors will be expected to provide are below. Work is expected to be completed on a rolling basis beginning in the first half of 2025 and through program completion, likely by the end of 2027.

Throughout the program, CEE will work to engage the community and offer periods when community members can sign up and complete an energy audit, a crucial first step of the program. Following each period of completed audits, selected contractors will complete the recommended energy upgrades. CEE recently completed the first round of energy audits and just over 20 residents participated. Now CEE is working to hire contractors to complete the recommended work from this first round of audits as well as the recommended work that results from future energy audits. Ideally contractors are able to complete the recommended work within two months of CEE approving the work scope. Contractors will complete a site visit and develop a proposal for CEE using agreed upon pricing. CEE will approve the scope of work and pay for the work once it passes a quality assurance inspection. PIIC participants are not charged for the energy improvements.

Recommendations from the energy audits include weatherization (insulation) work and recommendations to electrify the home’s heating, cooling and water heating systems. CEE will also make recommendations for general repair as it relates to this work. All homes receive electricity from Dakota Electric Association. Many homes receive natural gas services from Xcel Energy and some are heated by propane. Contractors should be Participating Contractors in utility rebate programs or show that they can quickly become a Patriating Contractor so that utility rebates can be earned where possible.

This RFP and the consultant contract will be governed, as applicable, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, preference will be given to organizations that identify with the requirements of PIIC’s Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) or Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE). To be considered for TERO or DBE status, subcontractors must submit additional documentation proving their eligibility.

Scope of Work & Mandatory Qualifications

Scope of Work

• Contractor will insulate and air seal up to 100 eligible homes in compliance with the Quality Installation Guide and the PIIC Building code ordinance.

• Contractor will have at least one crew member credentialed with the Building Performance Insititute’s (BPI) Air Leakage Control Installer (ALCI) certification.

o If staff hold similar credentials, please list those in the online Questionnaire.

o This requirement is in line with being a Participating Contractor in Xcel Energy’s insulation rebate programs.

• Contractor will install ventilation, such as a continuous running bath fan, when recommended and have a subcontractor who is licensed to do the related electrical work for this task.

• Contractor will complete this work between 2025 and through the end of 2027. Some homes are site-built single family homes and many are manufactured homes.

• Contractor will visit homes to build scopes of work or use the work scope provided by the CEE Energy Auditor.

• Contractor will submit a work scope to CEE within one week of completing the site visit, which should:

o Use agreed upon pricing

o List any applicable utility rebates

o Provide the cost of treating individual areas (Ex: attic, wall, belly) of the home

o Provide the square footage of the treated area(s)

o Always Include air sealing treatments for site-built homes and air sealing for manufactured homes as applicable.

• Contractor will be paid upon passing a CEE Quality Assurance Inspection, which will be conducted in a timely manner by CEE.

• Contractor will work with CEE to submit required paperwork for utility rebates and other incentives whenever work is eligible.

• Contractor will submit utility rebate forms and other incentives when work qualifies.

o Ideally the contractor is enrolled in Xcel Energy’s insulation rebate program

o If the contractor is not already connected to the utility rebate program, explain your ability to enroll your company in their programs in the Questionnaire.

• If the work described in the work scope does not pass the CEE Quality Assurance Inspection, Contractor will work with CEE and the homeowner to address the deficiency.

• Ability to obtain and maintain insurance of the types and in the amounts listed below:

o General liability, $2 Million Aggregate limit

o Automobile Liability, $1 Million Combined single limit

o Excess Liability, $2 Million, Aggregate limit

o Professional Liability, $2 Million, Aggregate limit

o Workers Compensation, Statutory requirements

• Contractor will agree to use a SharePoint site to share invoices, paperwork and other materials securely and efficiently with CEE. CEE will set up this site for contractors.

Minimum Qualifications

• Crew or crew leader has experience working with site built and manufactured homes

• Crew and Company leadership are open to considering new air sealing and insulation techniques for manufactured homes.

• Ability to complete work using agreed upon pricing, see details below.

• Ability to complete projects timely and professionally.

The project will cover multiple residential homes, and subcontractors can submit proposals for some or all of the tasks outlined. Applicants selected will sign a service agreement with CEE to perform the work.

Potential respondents to this RFP are allowed to submit questions to CEE before applying. CEE will share all submitted questions with all respondents so that all applicants have the same information when applying.
If you have questions, please email them to Danielle Hauck (dhauck@mncee.org) by 6pm on Wednesday, February 5th. Responses to all questions submitted by that date will be shared on Monday, February 10th by 6pm.

Proposal Submission Instructions:

Proposals must be submitted via email to dhauck@mncee.org by 6pm on Friday, February 21st. 
The full proposal must include:
1. Submission of the online questionnaire (link on the RFP website)
2. Submission of proof of BPI ALCI credentials or other comparable credentials for any
credentialed staff.
3. Submission of the completed price list
a. Download the provided spreadsheet.
b. Follow the directions on the sheet.
4. Submission of the proof of licensure and insurance
5. If applicable, proof of DBE business status or TERO
Submit the Questionnaire simply by completing the form online and hitting the red “Submit” button at the end. All other items should be emailed as attachments to dhauck@mncee.org by 6pm on Friday, February 21st.

Request for Proposal (RFP): HVAC or Mechanical Contractors for PIIC Home Energy Program

Project Overview

The Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC or Tribe) is a Federally Recognized Tribe in Minnesota. PIIC is providing a Home Energy Program to PIIC tribal community members that includes energy audits and energy-efficient, carbon-reducing technology upgrades for tribal homes to address environmental and public health issues and support the Tribe’s net zero emissions goal. One hundred homes are eligible to participate in this program, which is planned to run through the end of 2027. These homes are located on tribal land near Welch, Minnesota and are a mix of single-family site-built homes and manufactured homes.

PIIC has hired a program implementer, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), who is responsible for delivering this program on PIIC’s behalf. CEE is seeking to hire experienced mechanical or HVAC contractors to fulfill the program needs for PIIC. Details about the scope of work and the minimum qualifications that contractors will be expected to provide are below. Work is expected to be completed on a rolling basis beginning in the first half of 2025 and through program completion, likely at the end of 2027.

Throughout the program, CEE will work to engage the community and offer periods when community members can sign up and complete an energy audit, a crucial first step of the program. Following each period of completed audits, selected contractors will complete the recommended energy upgrades. CEE recently completed the first round of energy audits and just over 20 residents participated. Now CEE is working to hire contractors to complete the recommended work from this first round of audits as well as the recommended work that results from future energy audits. Ideally contractors are able to complete the recommended work within two months of CEE approving the work scope. Contractors will complete a site visit and develop a proposal for CEE using agreed upon base costs. CEE will approve the scope of work and pay for the work once it passes a quality assurance inspection. PIIC participants are not charged for the energy improvements.

Recommendations from the energy audits include weatherization (insulation) work and electrification measures such as upgrading to a heat pump water heater, to a cold climate air source heat pump as a part of a dual fuel system. CEE will also make recommendations for general repair as it relates to this work. All homes receive electricity from Dakota Electric Association. Many homes receive natural gas services from Xcel Energy and some are heated by propane. Contractors should be Participating Contractors in utility rebate programs or show that they can quickly become a Patriating Contractor so that utility rebates can be earned where possible.

This RFP and the consultant contract will be governed, as applicable, by the laws of the Prairie Island Indian Community. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, preference will be given to organizations that identify with the requirements of PIIC’s Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) or Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE). To be considered for TERO or DBE status, subcontractors must submit additional documentation proving their eligibility.

Scope of Work & Mandatory Qualifications

Scope of Work

• Contractor will install new high efficiency heating systems, cooling systems and water heater heaters as recommended by CEE during the energy audit. Most of the installed equipment will be high efficiency natural gas furnaces, air source heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters, but other equipment may be recommended if there are limitations on a specific job site. These alternatives might include air conditioners, natural gas or electric resistance water heaters.

• Contractor must have staff or subcontractor(s) who are licensed to do the necessary electrical work for the equipment installations. Electrician work may also include wiring for newly added ventilation, panel upgrades and related electrical work.

• Contractor can repair existing equipment (furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners and heat pumps) if possible and when recommended by CEE.

• Contractor will comply with PIIC Building code ordinance and use the Air Source Heat Pump Collaborative’s Best Practices Guide when installing ASHPs.

• Contractor ought to have the capacity to complete installations within two months of receiving an approved work scope from CEE.

• Contractor will complete installations and necessary work scope appointments on a rolling basis starting in the first half of 2025 through 2027, which is the length of the contract between CEE and PIIC. CEE will send requests for work scope appointments to contractor in a timely manner after energy audits have been completed.

• Contractor will submit work scope to CEE within one week of completing the site visit using agreed upon pricing.

• Contractor will provide the following information in either in the work scope or in supplemental documentation that is submitted with the work scope:

 List any applicable utility rebates that the proposed installation qualifies for

 Include a summary of the equipment sizing recommendation

 List the planned switchover temperature of the heat pump, when one is included in the work scope

• Contractor will be paid upon passing a CEE Quality Assurance Inspection, which will be conducted in a timely manner by CEE.

• If the work described in the work scope does not pass the CEE Quality Assurance Inspection, Contractor will work with CEE and the homeowner to address the deficiency.

• Contractor will work with CEE to submit required paperwork for utility rebates and other incentives whenever work is eligible.

• Contractor will submit utility rebate forms and other incentives when work qualifies.

 Ideally the contractor has experience with the Dakota Electric Association’s residential rebates and load management programs and is enrolled in Xcel Energy’s mechanical rebate programs.

 If the contractor is not already connected to these programs, explain your ability to enroll your company in their programs in the Questionnaire.

• Ability to obtain and maintain insurance of the types and in the amounts listed below:

 General liability, $2 Million Aggregate limit

 Automobile Liability, $1 Million Combined single limit

 Excess Liability, $2 Million, Aggregate limit

 Professional Liability, $2 Million, Aggregate limit

 Workers Compensation, Statutory requirements

• Contractor will agree to use a SharePoint site to share invoices, paperwork and other materials securely and efficiently with CEE. CEE will set up this site for contractors.

Minimum Qualifications

• Contractor ought to have experience installing air source heat pumps in manufactured homes or explain how they are prepared to work on this type of dwelling

• Ability to complete work using agreed upon pricing, see details below.

• Must have a methodology to calculate sizing of heating and cooling equipment. Must be able to share the recommendation from the tool with CEE. Tools could include but are not limited to the NEEP sizing tool or a Manual J calculation.

• Ability to submit utility rebate forms and other incentives when work qualifies.

o Ideally the contractor has experience with the Dakota Electric Association’s residential rebates and load management programs and is enrolled in Xcel Energy’s rebate programs.

o If the contractor is not already connected to these programs, please explain your ability to enroll your company in their programs in the RFP Questionnaire.

• Ability to complete projects timely and professionally.

The project will cover multiple residential homes, and Contractors can submit proposals for some or all of the tasks outlined. Applicants selected will sign a service agreement with CEE to perform the work.

Question Submission Instructions
Potential respondents to this RFP are allowed to submit questions to CEE before applying. CEE will share all submitted questions with all respondents so that all applicants have the same information when applying.
If you have questions, please email them to Danielle Hauck (dhauck@mncee.org) by 6pm on Wednesday, February 5th

Responses to all questions submitted by that date will be shared on
Monday, February 10th by 6pm.

Proposal Submission Instructions:
Proposals must be submitted via email to dhauck@mncee.org by 6pm on Friday, February 21st. 

The full proposal must include:
1. Submission of the online questionnaire (link on the RFP website)
2. Submission of the completed price list
a. Download the provided spreadsheet.
b. Follow the directions on the sheet.
3. Submission of the proof of licensure and insurance
4. If applicable, proof of DBE business status or TERO

Submit the Questionnaire simply by completing the form online and hitting the red “Submit” button at the end. All other items should be emailed as attachments to dhauck@mncee.org by 6pm on Friday, February 21st.