6. Once the top three or more ranked firms have been identified, each firm, at the request of the agency, shall submit a fee proposal. The firms shall not be told of their ranking position at that time. Using the three fee proposals to provide a general guideline, an agency shall negotiate a contract with the most technically qualified professional firm for architectural, engineering or land surveying services at compensation which the agency determines to be fair and reasonable to the State of New Jersey. In making this determination, the agency shall take into account the estimated value of the services to be rendered and the scope, complexity, and professional nature thereof. Should the agency be unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with the professional firm considered to be the most qualified at a fee the agency determines to be fair and reasonable, negotiations with that professional firm shall be formally terminated. The agency shall then undertake negotiations with the second most qualified professional firm. Failing accord with the second most qualified professional firm, the agency shall formally terminate negotiations. The agency shall then undertake negotiations with the third most qualified professional firm. Should the agency be unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with any of the selected professional firms, it shall select additional professional firms in order of their competence and qualifications and it shall continue negotiations in accordance with this section until an agreement is reached.
L.1997,c.399,s.6.