RFP - Totem Pole Paint and Refurbishing

GTB Strongheart Center and Marina Totem Pole Paint and Refurbishing Request for Proposals (RFP)

Issued by: The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians Date of Issue: 11-10-2025

Proposal Due Date: 11-21-2025

1. Introduction & Background

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is seeking proposals from qualified contractors or artisans to undertake the careful cleaning, paint restoration, and preservation of culturally significant totem poles at the Grand Traverse Band Strongheart Center and Marina. This totem poles hold deep cultural, spiritual, and historic importance for our community, and all work must be carried out in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner under the guidance of tribal elders and cultural advisors.

2. Scope of Work

The selected contractor will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Conducting a condition assessment and documenting the totem pole's current state.
• Cleaning and preparing surfaces for restoration.
• Restoring and repainting the totem poles with like/similar colors.
• Inspect Totem Poles for cracks, rot, or pest damage and reporting findings.
• Applying protective sealant/finish.
• Providing thorough documentation including before, during, and after photos, as well as a written final report.

3. Cultural Sensitivity Requirements

Contractors must:

• Work under the guidance of tribal cultural advisors or elders.
• Follow respectful handling protocols and participate in any ceremonies or permissions required prior to beginning work.

• Use only approved materials and methods as directed by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

4. Contractor Qualifications

Proposals must demonstrate:

• Experience in heritage, cultural, or Indigenous restoration projects.
• References from similar work, preferably with Indigenous communities.
• Proof of insurance and applicable licenses.

5. Timeline

The anticipated project schedule is as follows:

• Project Start Date: 11-24-2025 (weather permitting)
• Completion Date:6-30-2026

6. Proposal Requirements

Submitted proposals must include:

• Company or individual background.
• Technical approach and methodology.
• Budget breakdown including materials, labor, travel, and consultation costs.
• Proposed schedule of work.

7. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated on the following basis:

• Cultural sensitivity and consultation plan.
• Relevant experience and references.
• Cost effectiveness.
• Proposed methodology and timeline.

8. Submission Instructions

All proposals must be submitted by 11-21-2025.

Proposals may be submitted in electronic/hard copy format to:

Ronald Anderson Facilities Manager

2605 N.W. Bayshore Dr. Peshawbestown, Michigan 49682 Email: ron.anderson@gtb-nsn.gov

Phone: 231-534-7034 Office

9. Terms & Conditions

• The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians retains ownership and decision-making authority throughout the project.
• All designs, photographs, and documentation produced during this project remain the property of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
• The contractor must comply with tribal cultural protocols at all times.

Current Openings for RFP Totem Pole Paint and Refurbishing Jobs at Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians