COMMUNICATION SUPPORT
SERVICES
Town of Atherton
April 25, 2025
By: Ryder Todd Smith
Co-founder & Principal
Tripepi Smith & Associates
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Table of Contents
COVER LETTER................................................................................3 ABOUT TRIPEPI SMITH ...................................................................4 TRIPEPI SMITH TEAM....................................................................11 PROJECT UNDERSTANDING........................................................14 COST PROPOSAL ..........................................................................18 APPENDIX: RESUMES...................................................................22 Single Source Communications
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COVER LETTER
Thank you for the opportunity to present Tripepi Smith’s offerings in response to Atherton’s request for an updated proposal for communication services.
Tripepi Smith has a deep understanding of the Town of Atherton, having supported the Town in various communications efforts since 2022. We are intimately familiar with your brand, your voice and your preferred workflows — giving Tripepi Smith the ability to efficiently grab ahold of this work and hit the ground running.
Tripepi Smith understands the unique dynamics of local government agencies, from the Bay Area to the Antelope Valley and across California and other western states.
Distinguishing/Key Features
No other communications firm has the public agency client depth and diversity that Tripepi Smith offers. We gain insights from the breadth of our work with our 200+ public agency clients, which yields key advantages:
• Certifications in Industry-Standard Platforms: Our team possesses a deep understanding of social media and digital platforms, evidenced by our certifications from industry leaders like Meta, YouTube, Twitter and Meltwater.
• Breadth of Expertise: The breadth of Tripepi Smith’s team — from policy to videography to graphic design — is rare. The result: we have an ability to tell a complete story across all mediums, all within our one team.
• A Deep Understanding of Local Issues: Tripepi Smith’s work with over 200 public agencies and municipal partners benefits each client as we translate practical field experience into outreach strategies tailored to their unique circumstances. Moreover, we are known for our mastery of the art of local government communications.
• Long History Of Partnership & Support: We have partnered with the Town and supported your newsletter and communications over 3 years of collaboration. We know the players, have built solid relationships, and have experience working with you on key issues. Our continued and enhanced partnership will help identify and implement improvement areas for the Town moving forward.
Engaging constituents and telling your agency’s story is not a simple matter. It takes work, consistency, innovation and creativity to make an impact. We are confident that our dedication and proven track record make us the right partner for the Town of Atherton. Thank you for considering us in this endeavor. We eagerly anticipate the chance to discuss our proposal in more detail Authorization
I affirm that I have the legal authorization to bind Tripepi Smith into agreements with Atherton and to make the statements below on behalf of the firm. This proposal is valid for 60 days from the date of submission.
Regards,
Ryder Todd Smith
Co-Founder & President, Tripepi Smith & Associates, Inc.
[email protected] • (626) 536-2173 • PO Box 52152, Irvine, CA 92619 Single Source Communications
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REFRESHER ON TRIPEPI SMITH
A Public Affairs Firm that Understands Local Government Tripepi Smith excels in public affairs and marketing. Founded in 2000 and incorporated as a California corporation in 2002, the company is headquartered in Orange County, California, with staff throughout the western United States. We work in a complex environment where successful communications go hand-in-hand with marketing and technical expertise. As a full-service marketing and creative services firm, Tripepi Smith offers the right professionals for the job while being small enough to be nimble and responsive. Our team offers a broad spectrum of experience and skills that allows us to apply the appropriate resource to the appropriate tasks; this allows us to execute work faster and reduce engagement costs.
Tripepi Smith's team comprises over 65 full-time professionals experienced in local government. Our staff includes former municipal employees with backgrounds in creative services, public information and city management, as well as seasoned directors, analysts and practice area specialists. Accredited public relations (APR) professionals guide effective messaging while policy wonks provide counsel on public affairs. TS Creatives fashion compelling branding, websites, print and digital design, social media, photography and videography. We employ multiple FAA-certified drone pilots and operate a full-scale video production studio with extensive event and broadcast experience.
The Result: We can tell a complete story across mediums, all within our one team.
Firm Structure and Financial Matters
Tripepi Smith was founded in 2000 and incorporated in 2002 as a California S Corporation. The firm has two corporate officers, who are also the co-founders with equal ownership of the business:
Co-Founder & President Ryder Todd Smith
Chief Financial Officer Nicole Smith
Ryder and Nicole have signing authority to bind Tripepi Smith into agreements with clients. Tripepi Smith has generated a profit every year it has been in operation. We have never had a legal claim filed against us and have never failed to fulfill a contract commitment.
In addition to the President/CEO and CFO, multiple principals and directors oversee the day-to-day operations of a team of analysts, graphic designers, photographers and videographers. All Tripepi Smith employees report directly to the President. Please refer to our Org Chart for full details.
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Grounded in Civic Affairs
CFO Nicole Tripepi Smith is a second-generation civic-affairs professional (her father was a city manager for 28 years). President Ryder Todd Smith brings over 20 years of public agency marketing and communications experience to the table.
Office Locations
Since early 2017, Tripepi Smith has operated in a completely virtual office environment. Being virtual enhances operational resilience and grants us access to a flexible and diverse workforce. The team — composed of policy wonks, creative message developers, broadcast specialists, videography experts, technology gurus and graphic artists — resides throughout Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, with a majority based in California.
Contact Information
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (626) 536-2173
Mail: PO Box 52152, Irvine, CA 92619
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Our Services
Tripepi Smith operates at the intersection of marketing, technology and public affairs. We excel in each of these areas, but the true power lies in our ability to seamlessly integrate them. This holistic approach allows us to craft impactful solutions for our clients.
Strategy, Marketing,
Communications
Creative Services
Strategic development, research,
surveys, messaging
Social media management
Web and social media strategy,
optimization (SEO), metrics
Web hosting and support
Email campaigns
Relations
(media, stakeholders, public, government)
Support and training for events,
presentations and virtual gatherings
Digital, print, radio,
out-of-home advertising
Staff training
(media, social media, photo, brand implementation)
Full-service graphic design
for digital, print and outdoor
Brand and logo development
Content creation
(writing, editorial, thought leadership)
Output services
(digital distribution, print management, mail management) Illustration and information graphics
Photography
Videography, broadcasting,
podcasting, drone
Event production, technical support
Animation and motion graphics
Web design and implementation
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Partial Client Roster
We have a network of 200+ satisfied clients in the local government space. We are happy to connect you with contacts at our client agencies who can share their experience working with Tripepi Smith.
California City Management
Foundation
City of Aliso Viejo
City of American Canyon
City of Atascadero
City (Town) of Atherton
City of Baldwin Park
City of Bellflower
City of Benicia
City of Burlingame
City of Claremont
City of Coronado
City of Cotati
(City of) Culver City
City of Cupertino
(City of) Daly City
City of Danville
City of Duarte
City of El Cerrito
City of Encinitas
City of Fountain Valley
City of Foster City
City of Fullerton
City of Gilroy
City of Grover Beach
City of Hawaiian Gardens
City of Hayward
City of Healdsburg
City of Hercules
City of Huntington Beach
City of Indian Wells
City of Irvine
City of La Cañada Flintridge
City of La Palma
City of La Puente
City of La Verne
City of Laguna Hills
City of Laguna Niguel
City of Lake Forest
City of Lakeport
City of Lancaster
City of Livermore
City of Lomita
City of Lynwood
City of Malibu
City of Manhattan Beach
City of Manteca
City of Martinez
City of Menifee
City of Millbrae
City of Morgan Hill
City of Murrieta
City of Napa
City of Orange
City of Orinda
City of Pacifica
City of Palm Desert
City of Palmdale
City of Paramount
City of Pico Rivera
City of Pismo Beach
City of Placentia
City of Pomona
City of Rancho Mirage
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
City of Riverbank
City of Rohnert Park
City of Rolling Hills Estates
City of San Clemente
City of San Leandro
City of Santa Ana
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Paula
City of Saratoga
City of Stanton
City of South Gate
City of South Pasadena
City of Tracy
City of Vallejo
Costa Mesa Sanitary District
Del Paso Manor Water District
West County Wastewater District
Independent Cities Association
Independent Cities Finance Authority
Institute for Local Government
League of California Cities
Municipal Management Association
of Northern California
Municipal Management Association
of Southern California
Orange County City Manager
Association
San Gabriel Valley City Managers’
Association
Claremont McKenna College
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Local Government Affiliation & Support
Tripepi Smith is a longstanding partner to these institutions, the majority of which have entrusted us with supporting their communications.
California City
Management Foundation
Municipal Management Association
of Southern California
California Association
of Public Information Officials
Institute for
Local Government
League of California Cities San Gabriel Valley
City Managers’ Association
California Contract
Cities Association
California Special
District Association
Orange County City
Manager Association
Texas Women’s
Leadership Institute
Cal-ICMA Urban Management Assistants
of North Texas
California Municipal Revenue and
Tax Association
Washington City/County
Management Association
Municipal Management Association
of Northern California
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Axioms We Live By
Introduction
In our work with over 200 local government agencies on external communications since our incorporation in 2002, we have identified many patterns, observations and insights. As a result we have developed some axioms (AKA sayings or mottos) when it comes to thinking about external-facing communications. These are just a few that we find universally true.
Content X Distribution = Impact
The audience must see your content to be impacted by it.
Tripepi Smith was born in the digital era. We take digital seriously and recognize how critical it is to not only develop great visuals and messaging, but to ensure the audiences we want to reach actually see that content.
“Content x Distribution = IMPACT” is how we illustrate the point: What good is content if you aren’t properly promoting, distributing or sharing it? On the other hand, what good is distribution if the content fails to engage your audience positively? We use this principle to guide a comprehensive distribution strategy that ensures we reach our target audiences.
If you don’t publish
information first, someone
else will–and they may not
care about the facts.
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In this age of smartphones and voice-activated virtual assistants, we are used to being able to access news and information at our fingertips. When your community cannot easily find information — such as a controversial policy decision, a new housing development or a political scandal — they may resort to finding "the facts" on their own. This is especially true for crisis communications: the longer you wait to address the crisis, the more time you are giving to others to fill that void with their own research and/or opinions.
So, we strive to get your information out there first, even if it is a "holding message" such as "we are aware of the situation and will use our official channels to share more info soon." By publishing information on your agency's website or some other centralized location, you, your agency leadership and your supporters will be able to easily debunk misinformation with verifiable facts and talking points.
Only a small percentage of
the population understands
local government the way we do.
The 3% includes local government professionals like you and consultants like us–the select few who wake up daily thinking about the complexities facing public policy and municipal management. We have our own language in local government: terms, phrases and especially acronyms. Most of the population may have little exposure to or interest in local government. They just want their utilities to work, no potholes, low crime and other securities provided by their local governments that enable a high quality of life.
So, when we speak with the 97% through public outreach, we ensure our language is accessible and understandable. This mitigates any risk of alienating them; moreover, it enables an ability to build relationships and engender trust.
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TRIPEPI SMITH TEAM
Organization Chart
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Project Staff
The Account Manager (bio below) will closely monitor the quality of work product before Tripepi Smith delivers it to you for review/approval. Should any key personnel become unavailable during our engagement, Tripepi Smith will quickly substitute with other Tripepi Smith resources who have commensurate experience, knowledge and/or skill sets.
Please see the Appendix for full resumes of key personnel. You can learn more about our individual backgrounds and qualifications at www.TripepiSmith.com/Our-Team.
The core project team will have dedicated availability to support the engagement, including capacity to provide support under urgent notice and/or time constraints. Tripepi Smith is a collaborative firm with many skill sets available. Any Tripepi Smith staff member may be brought onto the engagement to help with our efforts.
Kalee Cummings
Senior Business Analyst
Location: San Francisco, CA | Role: Account Manager
Kalee Cummings, a Senior Business Analyst at Tripepi Smith residing in the Bay Area, brings a wealth of experience in public policy, non-profit management and marketing strategy. Having quickly ascended from Junior Business Analyst to Business Analyst to her current role, Kalee excels in client management, narrative crafting and community engagement, tailoring solutions to meet diverse client needs. At the core of her proficiency lies her talent for devising innovative communication strategies and producing creative and targeted content. Additionally, Kalee is a key member of the Tripepi Smith Cloud Webmaster team and spearheads strategy and operations for Tripepi Smith Media Intelligence services, leveraging her expertise in web development, data analysis and market research to deliver invaluable insights to clients.
Kalee holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Claremont McKenna College, with a focus on public policy and organization, complemented by a sequence in data science. Her commitment to professional growth is underscored by her certifications, including Google Ads Display Certification, Meltwater Social Listening with Explore: Advanced, Meltwater Boolean: Advanced and Sprout Social Platform Certification.
Kalee's clients have included municipalities such as American Canyon, Napa, St. Helena, El Cerrito, Orinda, Lancaster and Laguna Hills, as well as esteemed organizations like Pivot Charter Schools and the Center for Public Safety Management.
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Mia Valenzuela
Junior Business Analyst
Location: San Francisco, CA | Role: Project Manager
Mia Valenzuela is a community-oriented writer with a background in the arts supported by strong organizational and communication skills. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in Creative Writing and a minor in Philosophy from Scripps College. Mia is enthusiastic about serving the public through informative storytelling and is proud to do so with Tripepi Smith.
Mia is certified in Sprout Social. Her clients include Renne Public Law Group, City of Menlo Park, City of Hercules, City of San Luis Obispo and City of Rohnert Park.
Claire Blodget
Junior Business Analyst
Location: San Diego, CA | Role: Content Development
Claire Blodget is a skilled communicator with a diverse background in research, translation and marketing. She graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara, with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and minors in Labor Studies and Portuguese. With this academic background, she holds a thorough understanding of the intersection between social, political, environmental and economic processes that affect our institutions and society. As an undergraduate, Claire developed her research abilities writing case studies for the Global Studies Department and strengthened her marketing skills as an Experiential Marketing Coordinator for Shabang Music Productions. Following her graduation, Claire became a Social Media & Marketing Intern for Movido, a wellness brand, while teaching English in Alicante, Spain, through the North American Language and Culture Assistant Program (NALCAP).
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PROJECT UNDERSTANDING
Atheron’s Needs
The Town of Atherton is seeking a partner in reaching and engaging its community with a quarterly newsletter along with options for additional communication and outreach as needed.
Tripepi Smith’s Approach
Tripepi Smith has experience in all facets of Atherton’s requests. We will accomplish these goals through:
• Conducting monthly check-in calls to stay apprised of the events and issues Atherton faces and advise on communication strategies.
• Providing a quarterly newsletter that includes planning, writing, design, layout and print vendor coordination.
• Creating graphic design, website content and photography or videography projects as needed.
Project Management
Tripepi Smith begins all engagements with a kickoff meeting with the client to: introduce personnel to one another, define Key Performance Indicators (metrics, goals and timelines); review project management processes; and ensure each stakeholder has a full understanding of their responsibilities.
Tripepi Smith primarily uses the following tools to manage projects:
• Google Workspace for email, creating real-time collaborative documents and instant messaging • Zoom or Google Meet for conference calls
• Sprout Social for social media management: posting and monitoring comments/messages • Meltwater for media intelligence and media relations
• Kantata for project/task management, internal project status updates and time entry These tools enable project managers to quickly determine a project’s budget status, review the schedule of tasks, send rapid notifications to the whole team if issues arise and, generally, sustain momentum on our efforts.
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Monthly Strategy Sessions
To coordinate our efforts with Town Staff and sustain momentum on projects, Tripepi Smith will schedule a recurring, one-hour monthly phone call that will include a Town-designated lead for our engagement.
These monthly calls will help drive content planning for various communications channels, including newsletter articles, website articles, webpage updates and other stories. Call content will focus on story plans, new issues or concerns that need to be communicated and identification of major themes or ideas to address in the coming weeks. This will be a working call during which Tripepi Smith will manage an agenda and provide notes for each call. After each call, the client will receive an action summary email about decisions made on the phone call and related action steps. We will produce work, such as webpage and article drafts, in a shared workspace where the Town can see our progress in real time and provide instant feedback as needed. These tools allow for enhanced collaboration and expedite the production process.
Quarterly Newsletter
Tripepi Smith has multiple graphic artists with access to the complete Adobe Creative Suite. Our artists’ experience working in public affairs expedites their development process and reduces the possibility of design direction being lost in translation. which includes graphic design time to layout the “Athertonian.” We have assumed here that Tripepi Smith will write five (5) articles and the Town will write all remaining content for the newsletter. Tripepi Smith will also make our resources available on an ad hoc basis to assist with content writing if extra writing is needed for a particular issue.
Ad-Hoc Needs
Tripepi Smith is prepared to provide the following services on an as-need (ad-hoc) basis. The services may include following and are not limited to:
Websites
Tripepi Smith can supplement Staff efforts to improve your website. With decades of combined experience managing websites for public agencies, our team handles all website needs, from content strategy, creation and maintenance to technical support and full-fledged website redesigns. No matter the case, we prioritize user experience, staff education, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our team is fluent in a bevy of website service providers, including Granicus (govAccess and OpenCities), CivicPlus, Revize, WordPress and Civica–plus analytics software, such as Google Analytics and Piwik. In fact, we combine data on how constituents interact with your website with our technical knowhow and storytelling skills to inform our work on websites: website redesigns, project management for website redesigns and cloud webmaster services.
Animation
Tripepi Smith has talented in-house animators who bring your ideas to life through short-form video storytelling. Whether you need to inform stakeholders about a complex concept or promote an evergreen program that can be used for years to come, Tripepi Smith can be your partner in animated video creation. Our team is equipped to handle all aspects of the process, from providing creative Single Source Communications
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direction to executing overall project management and everything in between. We organize our process into three phases:
• Pre-Production: During this phase, our teams will collaborate to identify visual concepts, tone, audiences, milestones and your goals for the project. Our team will then develop a script that, once finalized with client stakeholders, will be recorded as voiceover narration. Our staff creates a storyboard consisting of the complete script as well as what we envision as complementary visual elements, ensuring that each segment of the video and key message packs a punch. This material will live in a ‘Production Doc’ that you will have access to and ample opportunity to provide feedback on.
• Production: In phase two, our animation experts bring our creative vision to life, consolidating the work product of pre-production — our script and voiceover, music and the storyboard — into an animated video.
• Post-Production: Once you receive your first draft of the video, we enter the review phase, during which you will get to review and provide edits on up to two iterations of the video. Our team will deliver the final video, complete with captions (as requested and decided upon during preproduction) in a format(s) best suited for the platforms through which you wish to share the video.
Typically, we provide final videos in .MP4 formats as well as caption file(s) in .SRT formats via Dropbox.
Photography
With experience spanning a variety of multimedia projects, including videography, photography, drone, event coverage, event production or a combination thereof, Tripepi Smith’s talented in-house photographers understand the impact of photography of your community’s iconic sites.
The adage, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” rings true, especially for local governments whose communications are most impactful when representing the communities in which they serve.
Our team contains experts in multiple format outputs, which ensures that your photos will be compatible across your distribution platforms. We provide photography services for:
• Portraiture (Studio and environmental)
• Architecture
• Behind-the-Scenes
• Events (Ribbon cuttings, tree lightings,
summer activities, concerts and more)
• Conferences & Networking Events
• Fine Arts Shows/Gatherings
• Graduation Events
• Groundbreaking Ceremonies
• Promotional
• Keynote/Presentation Speakers
• Stock Imagery (Including drone)
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Our Approach to Photography
Photography, much like videography, requires deliberate, thorough preparation to achieve beautiful results. We organize shoots into three phases:
• Pre-Production: Our photographer will conduct a pre-photo shoot phone call of up to 30 minutes to review your key goals and objectives for the photos. During this phase, our team might develop a shot list or collaborate with a client to build upon their wish list of shots. We will also coordinate logistics, such as establishing a timeline and method for photo album delivery. • Production: You can expect our photographers to be onsite at least 30 minutes prior to the start of any photo shoot event in order to check in with client leads and review shoot conditions, such as weather and lighting. We may be onsite even earlier for shoots that require supplemental lighting or equipment, such as for headshot photo shoots when we set up a traveling photo studio. • Post-Production: After a photo shoot, Tripepi Smith’s photographer will spend the following days processing (editing) the images for optimal lighting, color, composition and more. If an occasion requires photos to be available immediately, our photographer can stay onsite and process the photos in real time.
Delivery
We deliver photos in native RAW and JPEG/JPG formats via Dropbox or Photoshelter, with the latter being the most client-friendly for organizing, reviewing and downloading photos. We can also upload photos to your preferred photo platform, such as an intranet or Flickr. Once we deliver the photos, they become yours — we release all rights to the photos and do not require watermarks.
Graphic Design
In today’s age of information saturation, it’s more important than ever for local governments to cut through the noise by designing materials that are attractive, interesting and reflective of the message.
Our diverse design team, from seasoned creative directors to detail-oriented technicians, illustrators, color experts and data visualization specialists, ensures we can tackle projects of every scale.
Moreover, we’ve honed an expertise in inspiring action among residents through daily collaboration with a wide range of public agencies. This translates to impactful visuals that grab attention, effectively communicate your message in a clear and engaging way and also inform the public. As public agency engagement specialists, accessibility is a cornerstone of every project that we undertake.
Our graphic design work spans:
• Logos, sub-logos, branding, campaigns
• Brochures, guides, newsletters, reports
• Animated visuals for social media, video
and web
• PDF, accessibility, ADA compliance
• PPT, presentations, meeting materials
• Stationery, business cards, templates
• Social media, web banners, email
• Infographics, financials, instructions
• Posters, banners, signage
• Conference materials, booths, swag
•
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COST PROPOSAL
Tripepi Smith proposes a fixed monthly fee to cover project management for the quarterly newsletter, along with an ad hoc budget for any additional work, billed on a time and materials basis as needed.
Fixed Monthly Fee
Service/Deliverable Scope
Project Management Conduct monthly client check-in calls, provide check-in call recap outlining action items and deadlines, advise on strategy.
Max of 60 minutes per call
Quarterly Newsletter Content planning, content writing, design, layout and print vendor coordination Max of 2 drafts per issue, Max of 5 drafted articles per issue Monthly Total $2,485
Estimated Ad Hoc Options
Service/Deliverable Scope Estimate
Police Department
Annual Report
Approximately 28-32 page report. Content and
photos provided by Town. Includes editing,
design and 2 drafts.
$5,790
Canva Template Creation Design of 4 templates to be uses in social media $430 Tri-fold Brochure Draft and design a tri-fold brochure. Includes 2 drafts.
$2,915
Budget-at-a-Glance 8-page overview of finances/budget with content provided by Town
$5,650
Animated Video 90 second video. Storyboard, voiceover script, project management. Edits and voiceover.
$2,986
Stock Photo Shoot Pre-production planning, equipment & project management. 1 day on-site and post production
editing. Includes travel and equipment.
$5,700
Dedicated Economic
Development Website
Development of dedicated Economic
Development Website to promote opportunities
and programs to assist businesses
$19,975
Estimated Total $43,446
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As-Needed Services
Tripepi Smith will apply the following standard hourly rates and related fees for any authorized asneeded (Time & Materials) work. Such work must be clearly authorized in writing before proceeding. 2025-26 Hourly Rates Standard Reduced Retainer
Principal $380 $315
Director $265 $225
Art/Creative Director $265 $225
Senior Business Analyst $205 $180
Business Analyst $150 $125
Junior Business Analyst $115 $100
Senior Videographer/Animator $205 $175
Senior Photographer $175 $150
Videographer/Photographer $140 $120
Junior Videographer/Photographer $115 $100
Senior Graphic Designer $195 $165
Graphic Designer $140 $120
Junior Graphic Designer $115 $100
Web Developer $210 $185
Junior Web Developer $115 $100
Drone Operator $205 $180
Council Chamber A/V Operator $115 $100
Invoicing & Payment Terms
At Tripepi Smith, we bill on either a Retainer, Fixed Fee or Time & Materials basis, with each billing type following its own payment schedule. Regardless, terms are Net 30 days. • Fixed Fee work is billed upon defined milestones.
• Time & Materials work is billed in 15-minute increments (i.e. 4.0, 1.25, 6.5 or 0.75 hours) at the end of the month in which work is done.
• Retainer work is billed on the 15th of each month.
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Other Cost Information
Tripepi Smith has related service fees that may come up during our engagement that we want to tell you about.
Annual Increase
Tripepi Smith will increase the hourly rates and retainer fees for all resources by 5% or the national CPI index–whichever is higher–each year on the anniversary of the contract, starting on the first anniversary of any contract when the contract duration is longer than one year. Otherwise, new rates will be negotiated with each new contract.
Retainer Discount
When a client’s retainer exceeds $7,500 per month, they gain access to our reduced retainer rates.
Travel Costs
Travel costs must be pre-authorized and then will be reimbursed by the client for any requested travel to complete a requested scope of work. Travel costs may include airfare, lodging, car rentals and gas.
Additionally, when client work requires that we be onsite, we will invoice for a resource’s travel time at 50% of the resource’s hourly rate.
Equipment Costs
Tripepi Smith offers some services that require equipment, such as drone operations and video production. As such, in those cases, the following rates apply:
Half Day (Under 4 Hours) Full Day (4+ Hours)
Video $450 $650
Drone $550 – Flat Fee
Please note that A/V equipment fees are based on the amount and type of equipment required, with pricing tailored to the specifics of each event.
Music and Video Licensing
Sometimes, the client will want Tripepi Smith to apply music or use stock imagery/video while producing video. In these cases, we will need to apply licensing fees of approximately $100 per song and $200 if we use stock video imagery. This will provide a license for the use of the music and video footage to Tripepi Smith and its clients.
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Service Fees
Tripepi Smith prefers that clients pay service providers directly to avoid unnecessary administrative costs. You should also know, however, that we have no economic interest in service providers, unless otherwise specified in this proposal.
If a client asks Tripepi Smith to pay for a service provider bill, we will apply a 10% agency fee to the reimbursement expense. Typical service fees include, but are not limited to: print, mailing, digital advertising, media placements, voiceovers, translations and closed captions.
Exclusive Access
Tripepi Smith has access to entities that may be relevant to our engagement. These partnerships allow Tripepi Smith to offer clients extra media reach or additional services at partner pricing.
Local Information Network of Knowledge (LINK): www.LocalInfoNetwork.com – A community forum for local government professionals in California to discover and share resources, policies, sample work products, best practices and more.
PublicCEO: www.PublicCEO.com – Digital news about public affairs, reaching over 17,500 California government executives through a daily podcast, job board, video podcast and more.
Civic Business Journal: www.CivicBusinessJournal.com – Digital interest stories on the people, companies and solutions that make local government in California more effective.
FlashVote: www.FlashVote.com – Statistically valid surveying that helps leaders make decisions. • Disclaimer: Tripepi Smith President Ryder Todd Smith is an investor in FlashVote.
Tripepi Smith Talent Solutions: www.TSTalentSolutions.com – A multifaceted recruitment consultancy service, combining local government access with communications to advance talent quests and build culture warriors.
Meltwater: www.TripepiSmith.com/Media-Intelligence – An enterprise-class, comprehensive media monitoring solution that is best combined with Tripepi Smith’s analytics team.
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APPENDIX: RESUMES
KALEE CUMMINGS
TRIPEPI SMITH – SENIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 07/24 – PRESENT • Produce and oversee development of comprehensive content and strategies, including social media, email, press releases, website content, graphics and more, to achieve communication goals • Lead strategy and operations for Media Intelligence services practice area TRIPEPI SMITH – BUSINESS ANALYST 12/22 – 07/24
TRIPEPI SMITH – JUNIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 07/21 – 12/22
SOURCE NONPROFIT CONSULTING – CONSULTANT 08/17–05/21
• Researched and compiled data to create deliverables including a recommendation guide to streamline donor management and retention, marketing strategy for expanded services and campaign strategy • Lead internal marketing initializes, utilizing Photoshop and HTML to create a year-end impact report JOLYN CLOTHING – E-COMMERCE INTERN 06/19 – 09/19
• Developed SEO Meta descriptions to optimize product listing pages and merchandise product • Performed web content updates within Shopify and Amazon Seller Central to expand e-commerce streams POLICY LAB – STUDENT RESEARCHER 01/19 – 05/19
• Researched and analyzed over 170 foreign policy speeches to project the foreign policy agenda related to migration in the 2020 midterm elections and synthesized research into a memo for the Brookings Institution • Mapped populations of immigrants, identified migration integration initiatives of Mayors Migration Council cities and synthesized research and data visualizations into a memo for the City of Los Angeles YASZA CREATIVE AGENCY – DIGITAL MARKETING INTERN 06/18 – 08/18 • Managed and curated daily content for social media platforms of four YASZA-affiliated companies based upon analytics using Hootsuite software and Instagram business tools • Directed video coverage of sales packages and services to be integrated into the social media platforms and websites of two companies, generating over 6,700 added views to promotional material
EDUCATION
CLAREMONT MCKENNA COLLEGE – CLAREMONT, CA
• Bachelor of Arts in Government | Sequence in Data Science
CERTIFICATIONS
• Google Ads Display Certification ...........................................................03/23 • Sprout Social Platform Certification .......................................................03/22 • Meltwater ............................................................................................. 21-22 o Social Listening with Explore: Advanced,
Meltwater Boolean: Advanced
• Hootsuite Social Marketing ....................................................................07/21
SOFTWARE
• Adobe Photoshop
• Canva
• Google Suite
• Hootsuite
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Shopify
• Sprout Social
• STATA, R, Python
• WordPress, CivicPlus,
Granicus Vision
Single Source Communications
Tripepi Smith & Associates 23
MIA VALENZUELA
TRIPEPI SMITH – JUNIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 06/23 – PRESENT • Support project management of client accounts Create social media content and graphic design • Manage and monitor social media and respond to public questions • Develop weekly and monthly e-newsletter content Translate written content and graphics from English to Spanish Compile social media metrics reports
BARNES AND NOBLE BOOKSTORE – BOOKSELLER 06/21 – 01/23
• Effectively multi-tasked and took initiative in fast-paced, client-facing role • Attended to customer needs with compassion and a commitment to company’s service values • Responded to telephone communications while balancing sales floor duties • Fulfilled customer orders and inquiries through Bookmaster software NINTH STREET HOOLIGANS A CAPPELLA – PRESIDENT 12/21 – 12/22 • Coordinated rehearsal and event schedules for 15 members • Efficiently communicated with team and external collaborates regarding event planning, performance preparation and budget needs according to deadlines
• Demonstrated follow-up and follow-through when facilitating group’s participation in performances such as the SoCal A Cappella Music Festival to audience of 2500 • Organized annual off-campus community retreat with outside venue within allocated budget • Created promotional content for Instagram using Canva and V photo and video editing services to advertise new member recruitment and performance events
SCRIPPS EATING DISORDER ALLIANCE – COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER 08/20 – 08/21 • Researched eating disorder education, size inclusivity, mental and physical health-related topics • Generated promotional and educational social media content for Instagram using Canva
EDUCATION
SCRIPPS COLLEGE – CLAREMONT, CA
• Bachelor of Arts in English | Concentration in Creative Writing
CERTIFICATIONS
• Sprout Social..........................................................................................07/23 • Hootsuite Social Marketing ....................................................................06/23
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Scripps College Emerging Professionals Programs – 2023 Cohort
SOFTWARE
• Canva
• Constant Contact
• Google Suite
• Microsoft Office Suite
• PublicInput
Single Source Communications
Tripepi Smith & Associates 24
CLAIRE BLODGET
TRIPEPI SMITH – JUNIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 03/24 – PRESENT • Conduct market research to provide client insights
• Manage social media and respond to public questions
• Write stories and press releases for clients and the Tripepi Smith site • Translation of materials from English to Spanish
MOVIDO – SOCIAL MEDIA & MARKETING INTERN 07/22 – 12/23
• Spearheaded comprehensive marketing strategy to establish a clear brand direction by conducting extensive research on Millennial/GenZ consumer trends
• Tracked social media engagement analytics and Amazon sales on AWS • Designed and launched an influencer partnership campaign to increase brand presence, increased followers by 20% and managed relationships with 20+ influencers • Wrote copy for Amazon and Shopify platforms, increasing site traffic by 20% NALCAP – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE ASSISTANT 10/22 – 06/22
• Coordinated and led nuanced high school-level discussions and activities in English and for students in Alicante, Spain
• Developed English grammar, phrases and language in history, geography and English classes • Provided cultural context of American/UK/English-speaking nations, promoting cultural integration and awareness
SHABANG MUSIC PRODUCTIONS –
EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING COORDINATOR 08/21 – 06/22
• Strategized and executed 10+ in-person promotional activations and B2B marketing campaigns, attracting 500+ new students to the festival i.e. Isla Vista Battle of the Bands and raffle • Coordinated and oversaw the distribution of print materials and managed promotions for the Shabang Music and Arts Festival in San Luis Obispo
UCSB GLOBAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT –
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANT 05/21–06/22
• Analyzed qualitative data from 200+ case studies in South America conducted with protest participants.
Analyzed overarching themes including social movements, protest, state repression and civil conflict • Edited content of peers
EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA – SANTA BARBARA, CA • Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies | Minors in Labor Studies and Portuguese
SOFTWARE
• Canva • Juxtaposer • Microsoft Office Suite
• WordPress