Written By David Gomez
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - County council has approved the award of a contract for a feasibility study examining the potential creation of a County Archives, marking the next step in a process first identified in the 2026 budget.
The contract, awarded through Request for Proposal (RFP), was presented during the March 10 meeting. Josh White, Procurement Services Manager, told council the study follows earlier direction to explore the concept of a Middlesex County Archives and to assess its feasibility before any decisions are made.
White explained that, following budget approval, staff initiated a procurement process and received a single submission from TCI Management Consultants. After reviewing the proposal, staff determined the firm had the necessary experience to carry out the work.
The study is expected to take approximately 16 weeks to complete and will include an analysis of potential service models, resources, and long-term considerations. White noted that, once the contract is finalized, work could begin within about a week, with findings to be presented to council at a later date.
CAO Paul Shipway emphasized that the project is exploratory in nature and does not represent a commitment to establish an archives system. “This is just a study,” Shipway said, adding that the goal is to provide council with an independent assessment of options. He noted that the process will include engagement with the public and relevant stakeholders before returning to council for further consideration.
Council also sought clarification on timelines. Councillor Michelle Smibert asked when the work would begin and when results could be expected. Staff indicated the study would proceed shortly after contract execution, with the 16-week timeline beginning at that point.
With no further discussion, council voted in favour of awarding the contract to TCI Management Consultants, advancing the feasibility study as part of its broader review of archival services in Middlesex County.
