Dunlap & Associates, Inc.'s services range in scope from: strategic planning issues; debt and investment policy drafting; sensitivity analysis; rating agency presentations; structuring innovative financings; fixed and variable rate bonds, notes or bank loans; debt capacity analysis; potential for current or advance refinancing opportunities; escrow investment restructuring; general obligation debt and revenue backed financings; interest rate hedging; tax increment financing; certificate of participation financing; and structuring financing documents for first time issuers.

Coordination of All Aspects of a Finance Transaction

The professionals at Dunlap & Associates are involved in the project from the planning stages to the closing. Dunlap & Associates "quarterbacks" the process to assure that the financing is completed in a manner which meets the client's objectives on a timely and cost-effective basis.

Competitive Bond Sale Bidding

With competitive bidding on a sealed-bid basis, the bonds are sold to the bidders submitting the best bid according to criteria stipulated in the notice of sale as developed by Dunlap & Associates. Dunlap & Associates solicits bids from a universe of over several different national and regional bond firms. A competitive Internet bidding process assures an efficient and effective method of sale.

Competitive Bank Loan Bidding

When market conditions or tax regulations favor a bank loan, Dunlap & Associates solicits bids from local and regional banks using a Request for Proposal written specifically to meet the client's needs.

Negotiated Bond Sale Services

A negotiated underwriting is that method of sale in which Dunlap & Associates negotiates on behalf of its client with an underwriter selected by the client. This negotiation relates to bond prices, interest rates, prepayment provisions and other terms of the bonds. Official Statement preparation, determination of document terms, credit enhancement, rating agency discussions, timing, and other services are provided by Dunlap & Associates.

Refinancing Analysis

Using the latest technology, the professionals at Dunlap & Associates prepare a detailed report that includes all of the options available to the client when planning a refunding.

Financial Structuring

There are several options available to a client with respect to the financing structure depending on the type of project and amount to be borrowed. Some of these options include: a bond issue; bank loan; pooled loan programs; Federal and State programs and derivative products.

Preparation of Bond Offering Documents

Dunlap & Associates assists in the development of an official statement for each bond issue. The official statement contains an overview of the project, financial information of the client, and demographic information of the client.

Specialized Services to Meet Client Objectives

Dunlap & Associates tailors its services to meet the client's needs and objectives.

Structuring Public/Private Partnerships

Dunlap & Associates will advise the Client on how to responsibly and effectively leverage their scarce resources with those of the private sector to accomplish objectives otherwise financially unattainable.

Financial Sustainability Planning

With assistance from the Client, Dunlap & Associates can provide a comprehensive overview and evaluation of outstanding debt, operating budgets, capital improvement plans, outsourcing contracts, and other pertinent financial and operational information to ascertain ways to reduce expenses and enhance revenues moving forward.

Privatizing/Outsourcing Government Services

Dunlap & Associates can assist in the development of a Managed Competition Program, including the preparation of appropriate solicitation materials, the evaluation of proposals and negotiations with preferred vendors.

Legislation and Market Conditions relating to Debt

Dunlap & Associates will continually monitor the legislative and market environment as it relates to financial sustainability and the issuance of debt (including refundings).

Fuel Hedging

A Fuel Hedging Program is a tool that governmental entities can use to reduce their exposure to rising fuel costs. Fuel Hedging contracts allow governmental entities the ability to fix fuel costs through a commodity swap or option. Dunlap & Associates, Inc. can assist the Client with the creation of such a Program along with bidding of the fuel option to assure a positive outcome. If not executed properly, this process can result in unfavorable and costly positions for the Client. Dunlap & Associates, Inc. has experience in this process and will assist the Client in obtaining additional information to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of fuel hedging.

Strategic and Business Planning

Dunlap & Associates will advise the Client, employing a proven business model for local government, on how to better align its scarce resources with the needs and expectations of its residents, businesses and visitors.

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