Certification Program UPDATE & LAG MANUAL Overview July 27, 2007

2 Road Map… Certification Program: What are we talking aboutWhat are we talking about What have we doneWhat have we done What are we doing now andWhat are we doing now and So what…So what…

3 What are we talking about… The Certification Program is a part of ODOT’s Local Government ProgramThe Certification Program is a part of ODOT’s Local Government Program Certification enables certified local agencies to retain more approval authority and local control when delivering federally funded Non-NHS transportation projectsCertification enables certified local agencies to retain more approval authority and local control when delivering federally funded Non-NHS transportation projects

4 What are we talking about… FHWA ODOT FHWA ODOT Stewardship Agreement Stewardship Agreement Federal-aid Highway Program $$ to ODOT

5 What are we talking about… Title 23 recognizes ODOT as direct recipient of federal-aid funds SAFETEA-LU indicates states shall be responsible for determining that sub- recipients of federal funds have: Adequate project delivery systems &Adequate project delivery systems & Sufficient accounting controls to properly manage federal fundsSufficient accounting controls to properly manage federal funds

6 What are we talking about… ODOT cannot delegate its responsibilitiesODOT cannot delegate its responsibilities ODOT is permitted to delegate certain activities under its supervision to local agenciesODOT is permitted to delegate certain activities under its supervision to local agencies

7 What are we talking about… The Certification Program provides a process for local agencies to demonstrate capabilities such as:The Certification Program provides a process for local agencies to demonstrate capabilities such as: –Adequate project delivery systems –Sufficient accounting controls to properly manage federal funds & –Appropriate resources and staff to properly manage federally funded projects

8 What have we done… Certification Program Website: Certification Program Website: – –LAG Manual – –Current Information Finished LAG Manual!! (Right of Way certification is under review)

9 LAG Manual Designed to be: – –User friendly – –Read and used online – hyperlinks!! – –Up-to-date (revised every 6 months) – –Read by a wide audience (3 Sections) A. Introduction B. Non-certified C. Certified Illustrate 6 project phases >

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11 LAG Manual continued… LAG provides: Process stepsProcess steps Federal and State requirementsFederal and State requirements Other considerations & recommendationsOther considerations & recommendations (See Bid & Award Chapter handouts)

12 What else have we done… Certification Workshops for Local Agencies: PDX ~ May 2007 PDX ~ May 2007 Roseburg ~ June 2007 Roseburg ~ June 2007

13 What are we doing now? 11 Cities and Counties have expressed their interest in certification and11 Cities and Counties have expressed their interest in certification and An additional 4 others are currently in the process of becoming certifiedAn additional 4 others are currently in the process of becoming certified Application Forms – Drafts Available

14 Pursuing Certification 1.City of Portland: –4 test projects underway…expect completion at the end of summer! –Pursuing certification in Bid & Award and Construction Contract Administration 2.Clackamas County: –Had their second Certification interview

15 Pursuing Certification 3.City of Eugene: –Completed first interview and scheduled for their second in August 4.Metro: –First interview scheduled for the end of July

16 So what…FAQ’s Can local agencies just keep doing what we are doing now, or do we have to become certified by a certain date? Can local agencies just keep doing what we are doing now, or do we have to become certified by a certain date? There is no requirement to become certified.

17 So what…FAQ’s What is the process for becoming certified? Just a few steps: 1. Review basic requirements (PE on staff, test projects, agreements, LAG Manual) 2. Complete appropriate application(s) during or prior to the interview with ODOT staff 3. ODOT reviews applicant’s procedures, receives clarifications, recommends changes as necessary 4. Successfully complete 2-4 test projects

18 So what…FAQ’s How will my relationship with ODOT change, will ODOT staff still provide support? Yes, ODOT will still provide support, especially through the process of becoming certified.

19 So what…FAQ’s Can we ask our own questions instead of having Marty read these to us? Yes.

20 Where to get more information: Beth Vargas Duncan Certification Program Manager ODOT, Local Government Section 355 Capitol Street NE, Room 326 Salem, OR ODOT Certification Program