Economic consulting services are required to assist the County government throughout negotiations with the FOP, IAFF, MCGEO, and MCVFRA (collectively referred to as “the Unions”), and continuing, as necessary, with labor and arbitration services.  

Services for collective bargaining support are generally needed from August through February, with the most intense activity occurring December through February. Bargaining with the Unions begins on or about November 1st in the fiscal year prior to the year of expiration of the contract. The initial phase concludes in agreement or impasse by mid-January of the current expiration year. Mediation/ Arbitration proceedings must conclude by early February. All economic agreements and agreements requiring additions or changes to existing law, rules, or regulations are submitted to the Montgomery County Council for final approval. Services may also be required during March, April, and May, if impasse proceedings are extended. Ratified agreements become effective July 1st of the new fiscal year. 

In addition to services that take place during collective bargaining, the County may request the Contractor conduct labor/economic/compensation studies outside of the collective bargaining process as the need arises. These services may result from requests from the County Executive's Office/Chief Administrative Officer; the County's legislative authority guided by the Office of Legislative Oversight,  the Government Operations (GO) Committee, and/or requests from Council members through proposed legislation or changes to legislation; and state or federal legislation that may impact County salary/compensation requirements.