Public-Private Partnership Proposals

What are public-private partnerships?

Public-private partnerships (P3s) are collaborative agreements between government entities and private-sector businesses. These partnerships aim to leverage the expertise and resources of both sectors to achieve public goals more efficiently and effectively. In Florida, public-private sector partnerships often intersect with real estate law, business law, and government relations.

A notable example of a public-private sector partnership in Florida is the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC). This transportation hub, developed through a collaboration between the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and private companies, combines various modes of transportation, including buses, rental cars, and Metrorail. The MIC exemplifies how public-private partnerships can enhance public infrastructure and stimulate economic development in the state.

Need help facilitating opportunities in the public sector? Schedule your consultation today with a top public-private partnership attorney.

Which Florida laws, rules, and regulations apply to public-private partnerships?

Florida Statutes Section 255.065 and Section 334.30 establish the framework for public-private partnerships for public and transportation facilities, respectively. These statutes outline the procedures for soliciting, receiving, and evaluating proposals for P3s and the criteria for selecting private entities.

Additionally, agencies like the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) guide public-private partnerships, including this reference guide. Moreover, local governments like Miami-Dade County often provide more specific guidelines for P3s.

Understanding and adhering to these state and local laws, rules, and regulations is crucial for successfully implementing public-private partnerships in Florida.

How do proposal concepts that highlight qualifications connect to public-private partnerships?

An effective proposal concept should demonstrate a potential partner’s capacity to deliver the desired services, financial stability, and technical expertise. Compliance with submission requirements ensures a level playing field, allowing decision-makers to evaluate and compare proposals based on merit. By adhering to these standards, businesses can increase their chances of being selected for a P3, while public entities can secure the most suitable partners to achieve their goals.

The technical requirements for a public-private partnership proposal in Florida can be broadly categorized into:

• Project Concept and Feasibility: The proposal should include a detailed project description, including its purpose, goals, and objectives. It should also provide a feasibility study assessing the project’s viability and potential economic, social, and environmental impact. The feasibility study should include a market assessment, technical feasibility, financial viability, risk assessment, and an evaluation of the potential benefits and costs.
• Partnership Structure: The proposal should define the roles and responsibilities of each partner, the decision-making process, the sharing of risks and rewards, and how the partnership will be managed and governed.
• Financing Plan: The proposal should include a detailed financial plan, including the funding sources, projected revenues, and cost estimates.
• Performance Measures: The proposal should define the performance measures for evaluating the project’s success, including service quality, customer satisfaction, and financial performance.
• Risk Management and Mitigation: The proposal should identify potential risks and the associated risk management and mitigation strategies. Common threats include operational risks, financial risks, and regulatory risks.
• Contractual Agreements: The proposal should outline the terms and conditions of the contract between the public and private partners, including the duration of the partnership, payment terms, and dispute resolution procedures.
• Public Engagement: The proposal should include a plan for engaging with the public and other stakeholders, including public consultations, communication strategies, and procedures for handling complaints and feedback.
• Technical Requirements: The proposal should provide detailed technical specifications for the project, including the design, construction, operation, and maintenance requirements.

Remember, the specifics can vary depending on the project type (infrastructure, IT, health, etc.), the kind of PPP model being proposed (Build-Operate-Transfer, Design-Build-Operate-Maintain, etc.), and any specific requirements or guidelines provided by the public entity or the Florida government.

When a set of facts is appropriate for facilitating a partnership with the public sector, there are many paths a client may take. We are value-based attorneys at Jimerson Birr, which means we look at each action with our clients from the point of view of costs and benefits while reducing liability. Then, based on our client’s objectives, we chart a path to seek appropriate remedies.

To determine whether your unique situation may necessitate litigation or another form of specialized public sector advocacy, please contact our office to set up your initial consultation.

How can counsel facilitate proposal concepts that highlight qualifications on behalf of businesses, and what are the associated strategic benefits?

Counsel can provide valuable support to businesses seeking to participate in public-private partnerships in Florida by:

• Reviewing the P3 framework: Understanding the governing statutes, regulations, and guidelines for P3s in Florida, such as Florida Statutes § 255.065, ensures that businesses know all legal requirements.
• Developing a strong proposal concept: Counsel can help businesses craft compelling proposals by highlighting their qualifications, experience, and financial stability.
• Ensuring compliance: Counsel can guide businesses through the proposal process by submitting all required documentation accurately and promptly.

The strategic benefits associated with engaging counsel in this process include the following:

• Improved chances of success: A well-prepared proposal with legal guidance increases the likelihood of being selected for a P3.
• Reduced risk: Counsel can identify potential legal issues or pitfalls, allowing businesses to address them proactively.
• Efficient resource allocation: With counsel’s guidance, businesses can focus their resources on the most critical aspects of the proposal process.

Please contact our office to set up your initial consultation to see what forms of legal protection and advocacy may be available for your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the critical components of a successful proposal concept for a public-private partnership in Florida?

A successful proposal should demonstrate the business’s qualifications, technical expertise, financial stability, and ability to deliver the desired services. Additionally, it should comply with all submission requirements outlined in the relevant statutes and regulations.

2. Can businesses submit unsolicited proposals for public-private partnerships in Florida?

Florida Statutes § 255.065 allows businesses to submit unsolicited proposals for P3s. However, these proposals must still meet the same standards and requirements as solicited proposals.

3. What happens if a business fails to comply with submission requirements for a public-private partnership proposal in Florida?

Non-compliance with submission requirements can result in disqualification from consideration. To avoid this outcome, businesses should work with counsel to ensure they fully understand and adhere to all applicable provisions.

Have more questions about how your business can access new opportunities in the public sector?

Crucially, this overview of proposal concepts that highlight qualifications does not begin to cover all the laws implicated by this issue or the factors that may compel the application of such laws. Every case is unique, and the laws can produce different outcomes depending on the individual circumstances.

Jimerson Birr attorneys guide our clients to help make informed decisions while ensuring their rights are respected and protected. Our lawyers are highly trained and experienced in the nuances of the law, so they can accurately interpret statutes and case law and holistically prepare individuals or companies for their legal endeavors. Through this intense personal investment and advocacy, our lawyers will help resolve the issue’s complicated legal problems efficiently and effectively.

Having a Jimerson Birr attorney on your side means securing a team of seasoned, multi-dimensional, cross-functional legal professionals. Whether it is a transaction, an operational issue, a regulatory challenge, or a contested legal predicament that may require court intervention, we remain tireless advocates at every step. Being a value-added law firm means putting the client at the forefront of everything we do. We use our experience to help our clients navigate even the most complex problems and come out the other side triumphant.

If you want to understand your case, the merits of your claim or defense, potential monetary awards, or the amount of exposure you face, you should speak with a qualified Jimerson Birr lawyer. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to help. Call Jimerson Birr at (904) 389-0050 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation.