RFP Special Counsel OPRA Related Matters

The Township of Gloucester solicits statements of qualifications from applicants for the appointment of Special Counsel, OPRA-Related Matters (one-year appointment). [...] The Township of Gloucester seeks to appoint a New Jersey-licensed attorney or a firm of attorneys to represent the Township of Gloucester in legal matters involving Open Public Records Act requests and to advise the Business Administrator, Township Clerk, and departments, as needed, on OPRA matters.

Special Counsel to represent the Township regarding the following OPRA-related matters:

1. Handle legal matters involving OPRA requests.
2. Advise the Township on OPRA compliance.
3. Assist municipal departments with OPRA issues.
4. Represent the Township in OPRA-related disputes and litigation.
5. Provide guidance concerning New Jersey OPRA law and municipal law matters.

Mandatory minimum requirements:

1. The attorney must be admitted to practice law in the State of New Jersey.
2. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of New Jersey municipal law and OPRA.
3. Experience affecting municipal government must be described in the proposal.
4. Must maintain a principal office location in close proximity to Gloucester Township to respond promptly to emergent matters.

Responses should address the general criteria and mandatory minimum criteria for the positions sought. All responses will be treated as confidential and reviewed only by the governing body, unless otherwise required by law. Responses must be received at the **Office of the Township Clerk, P.O. Box 8, 1261 Chews Landing Road, Blackwood, NJ 08012, no later than 12:00 PM, Thursday, December 3, 2026.** The Township requires **two copies** of each response as well as **one response on disc**. All responses shall be opened and announced publicly, immediately thereafter by the Township Clerk or her representative. Responses will be reviewed by the governing body. The Township will announce all appointments at a public meeting. Unless otherwise noted, appointments shall be for the calendar year of 2027 and subject to the execution of an appropriate contract.