DISCUSSION
The FVFD currently operates from two fire stations, both originally constructed in the mid1960s. Plans are in development to construct a new fire station on a new site to replace the existing Fire Station No. 1, while Fire Station No. 2 will remain at its current location. The estimated construction cost for the replacement station is $30,000,000, with associated land costs of approximately $8,125,000, for a combined impact fee cost basis of $38,125,000 for Station No. 1 alone.
The City retained NBS Government Finance Group to prepare an impact fee nexus study to analyze the impacts of new development on FVFD capital assets and to calculate legally defensible fees. The resulting study, the Fire Impact Fee Study (Revised Draft Final Report, September 8, 2025), is attached as Attachment 1.
Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
Concurrent with consideration of the proposed fire development impact fee ordinance, the City Council is also considering adoption of the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan. The Capital Improvement Plan identifies the facilities and improvements proposed to be financed, in whole or in part, with impact fee revenues, including the replacement of Fire Station No. 1 and related fire capital assets.
The Capital Improvement Plan identifies the approximate location, estimated size, anticipated timing, and estimated cost of the facilities and improvements proposed to be funded, consistent with Government Code sections 66002 and 66016.5.
Adopting the Capital Improvement Plan concurrently with the ordinance establishes the capital facilities on which the proposed fire development impact fees are based and satisfies the planning requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act.
Nexus Study Methodology
Impact fees are calculated using the system plan method, which allocates the cost of both existing and planned FVFD capital assets across all existing and future development at buildout. This approach is particularly appropriate for fire protection and EMS facilities, as new assets must be integrated geographically with existing infrastructure.
The demand variable used to apportion costs is fire department calls for service per year. NBS analyzed a random sample of 500 calls for service logged by FVFD over a one-year period (February 2024–January 2025), representing a margin of error of 4.24% at the 95% confidence level. This data established average calls-per-unit-per-year factors for each development type.
The total impact fee cost basis is $47,995,030, comprised of:
• Fire station facilities (replacement Station No. 1 and existing Station No. 2): $42,771,600 • Existing apparatus, vehicles, and equipment (depreciated replacement value):
$5,223,430
First Reading of an Ordinance Establishing a Fire Development Impact Fee for the Fountain Valley Fire Department and Adoption of a Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
July 14, 2026
Dividing the total cost basis ($47,995,030) by the projected 9,750 calls for service per year at buildout yields a cost per call for service of $4,922.57.
Proposed Fee Schedule
Residential fees are structured into tiered square-footage ranges, consistent with AB 602 (2021) and the rough proportionality standard established in Dolan v. City of Tigard and reaffirmed in Sheetz v. County of El Dorado (2024). The proposed fee schedule is as follows:
Development Type Unit Impact Fee per Unit
Residential <600 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $812.22
Residential 600–800 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $886.06
Residential >800–1,200 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $959.90
Residential >1,200–1,800 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,033.74
Residential >1,800–2,400 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,107.58
Residential >2,400 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,181.42
Senior/Assisted Living Bed $6,325.50
Hotel/Motel Room $1,009.13
Commercial KSF $2,121.63
Office/Medical KSF $507.02
Industrial KSF $88.61
DU = dwelling unit; KSF = 1,000 gross sq. ft. of gross leasable area; Room = guest room or suite; Bed = accommodation for one resident or patient.
Projected Revenue
Based on projected future development to buildout (approximately 1,923 additional calls for service per year), the study projects total impact fee revenue of approximately $9,466,097.
This represents approximately 25% of the estimated replacement cost of Fire Station No. 1.
All impact fee revenues will be deposited into a dedicated capital facilities account and First Reading of an Ordinance Establishing a Fire Development Impact Fee for the Fountain Valley Fire Department and Adoption of a Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
July 14, 2026
expended solely for the construction of, or debt service or lease-purchase payments associated with the replacement of Fire Station No. 1.
Regional Fee Comparison
The proposed fees are consistent with, and in several cases lower than, comparable fire impact fees charged by neighboring jurisdictions. The proposed single-family fee ($1,107.58 for the >1,800–2,400 sq. ft. tier) compares favorably to Costa Mesa ($1,467.00) and is in range with Brea (proposed $844.11–$1,029.00) and Huntington Beach ($740–$986). Newport Beach charges by square foot at $1.730/sq. ft., which imputes to $3,114–$4,152 for the same unit size range.
Legal Framework and AB 602 Compliance
The nexus study, proposed ordinance, and Capital Improvement Plan satisfy all requirements of the California Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq.), including the three (3) reasonable relationship findings required by Section 66001. The study also complies with AB 602 (2021) requirements, including:
• Residential fees calculated using tiered square footage ranges per Government Code Section 66016.5(a)(5)
• Identification of existing and proposed levels of service • Adoption of a Capital Improvement Plan concurrent with the nexus study • 30-day public notice prior to adoption hearing
The program also satisfies the essential nexus and rough proportionality standards required by Nollan v. California Coastal Commission (1987), Dolan v. City of Tigard (1994), and Sheetz v. County of El Dorado (2024).
ADU Fee Treatment
Consistent with Government Code Section 66310 et seq. (as reorganized by SB 477, 2024), no impact fee may be imposed on ADUs smaller than 750 square feet. For ADUs of 750 square feet or more, fees are calculated proportionally on a case-by-case basis using the formula:
Primary Unit Impact Fee × (ADU Square Feet ÷ Primary Unit Square Feet).
Implementation Timeline
Pursuant to Government Code Section 66017, the fee will not become effective until 60 days after final action by the City Council. The anticipated schedule is:
• July 14, 2026 – First Reading of Ordinance (this item) • August 4, 2026 – Second Reading and Adoption
• October 3, 2026 – Fee Effective Date (60 days after adoption)
FISCAL REVIEW
There is no fiscal impact to the City from an expenditure standpoint. The Fire Development Impact Fee is a revenue-generating program. All fees collected will be deposited into a dedicated capital facilities account, separate from the General Fund and all other City revenues, as required by Government Code Section 66006. Fee revenues may only be First Reading of an Ordinance Establishing a Fire Development Impact Fee for the Fountain Valley Fire Department and Adoption of a Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
July 14, 2026
expended for the capital assets identified in the nexus study, specifically, the construction of or debt service associated with replacement Fire Station No. 1.
Upon full buildout, the program is projected to generate approximately $9,466,097 in total revenue. For residential development, fees are collectible at the time of the first certificate of occupancy, consistent with SB 937 (2024). Fee revenue will be tracked, reported annually to the City Council, and subject to five-year findings requirements under Government Code Section 66001(d).
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
A public hearing notice was published consistent with Government Code Sections 66016 and 66016.5, with at least 30 days’ notice provided prior to this adoption hearing. The City has provided or will provide notification to any members of the public who requested notice of the intent to begin an impact fee nexus study, per Section 66016.5(a).
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REVIEW
Adoption of an impact fee ordinance and Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan is not a project subject to environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). It is a fiscal and administrative action that does not directly authorize physical development. Environmental review will be conducted at the time any specific capital improvement project (e.g., construction of replacement Station No. 1) is approved.
ATTORNEY REVIEW
The ordinance establishing the Fire Development Impact Fee, the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, and related documents have been reviewed by Harper & Burns LLP, Attorneys for the City, for consistency with the Mitigation Fee Act, AB 602, and applicable constitutional standards.
ALTERNATIVES Alternative No. 1:
Alternative No. 2:
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the first reading of the ordinance establishing the Fire Development Impact Fee and adopt the Resolution adopting the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, as supported by the NBS Fire Impact Fee Study
Provide direction to staff to modify the fee schedule, Capital Improvement Plan, or study parameters and continue the item to a future meeting
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the first reading of the ordinance establishing the Fire Development Impact Fee and adopt the attached Resolution adopting the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan.
First Reading of an Ordinance Establishing a Fire Development Impact Fee for the Fountain Valley Fire Department and Adoption of a Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
July 14, 2026
Prepared by: Chris Nigg, Fire Chief Reviewed by: Maggie Le, City Manager Fiscal Review by: Ryan Smith, Finance Director
Attorney review by: Harper & Burns LLP, Attorneys for the City Approved by: Maggie Le, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Fire Impact Fee Study, Revised Draft Final Report (NBS Government Finance Group, September 8, 2025)
2. Proposed Ordinance Establishing the Fire Development Impact Fee, including Exhibit A, Fire Development Impact Fee Schedule
3. Proposed Resolution Adopting the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan (with Exhibit A: Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan)
Fire Impact Fee Study
Revised Draft Final Report
September 8, 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary ............................................................................................................ S-1 Organization of the Report............................................................................................... S-1 Development Data ........................................................................................................... S-1 Impact Fee Analysis .......................................................................................................... S-1 Impact Fee Summary ........................................................................................................ S-2 Chapter 1. Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1-1 Legal Framework for Impact Fees .................................................................................... 1-1 Recent Legislation ............................................................................................................ 1-5 Impact Fee Calculation Methodology .............................................................................. 1-7 Impact Fees for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) ........................................................... 1-8 Chapter 2. Development Data ............................................................................................. 2-1 Study Area ........................................................................................................................ 2-1 Time Horizon .................................................................................................................... 2-1 Development Types .......................................................................................................... 2-1 Demand Variable .............................................................................................................. 2-4 Existing and Future Development .................................................................................... 2-6 Chapter 3. Fire Department Facilities .................................................................................. 3-1 Methodology .................................................................................................................... 3-1 Service Area ...................................................................................................................... 3-1 Demand Variable .............................................................................................................. 3-1 Level-of-Service Standard ................................................................................................ 3-1 Existing Fire Department Facilities ................................................................................... 3-2 Impact Fees per Unit ........................................................................................................ 3-4 Projected Revenue ........................................................................................................... 3-5 Updating the Fees ............................................................................................................ 3-5 Use of the Impact Fees ..................................................................................................... 3-5 Nexus Summary ................................................................................................................ 3-5 Chapter 4. Implementation ................................................................................................. 4-1 Adoption ........................................................................................................................... 4-1 Administration .................................................................................................................. 4-1 Additional Requirements Imposed by AB 602 ................................................................. 4-6 Training and Public Information ....................................................................................... 4-7 Appendix ............................................................................................................................ A-1
City of Fountain Valley Page S-1
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
The City of Fountain Valley retained NBS Government Finance Group to prepare this study to analyze the impacts of new development on Fountain Valley Fire Department (FVFD) facilities, apparatus, vehicles and equipment (sometimes referred to as capital assets in this report), and to calculate impact fees based on that analysis. The methods used in this study are designed to satisfy all legal requirements of the U. S. Constitution, the California Constitution and the California Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq.).
Organization of the Report
Chapter 1 of this report provides an overview of the legal requirements for establishing and imposing such fees, and methods that can be used to calculate impact fees.
Chapter 2 contains data on existing and future development used in this report.
Chapter 3 analyzes the impacts of development on FVFD facilities and other capital assets.
Chapter 4 contains recommendations for adopting and implementing impact fees to satisfy the requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act.
Development Data
Chapter 2 of this report presents estimates of existing development in Fountain Valley and a forecast of future development to buildout of the City as envisioned in the Fountain Valley General Plan. Chapter 2 also establishes the fire-calls-per-unit-per-year factors that are used in the impact fee calculations.
It is important to note that because of amendments to the Mitigation Fee Act contained in AB 602 that were incorporated into California law effective in 2022, impact fee categories for residential development in this study are defined in terms of unit-size categories, broken down by square footage ranges. Prior to the adoption of AB 602 it was common practice to base residential impact fees on unit-type categories (e.g., singlefamily or multi-family units).
Impact Fee Analysis
Impact fees for FVFD facilities apparatus, vehicles and equipment are calculated in Chapter 3 using the system plan method which is one of three fee calculation methods discussed in Chapter 1 of this report. The system plan method bases the impact fees on the projected level of service at buildout, so the cost of both existing and future FVFD capital assets serving the City are allocated to both existing and future development in the City. That approach results in impact fees that are designed to recover new entire City at buildout.
City of Fountain Valley Page S-2
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
The impact of development on Fire Department facilities, apparatus and equipment is represented in this study by the number of calls for service per year generated by development in the City. As part of this study, NBS analyzed the distribution of Fire Department calls for service for a full year to determine the average number of calls per unit per year generated by different types of development.
A cost per call for service per year is calculated by dividing estimated existing and future FVFD asset replacement costs in current dollars by the projected number of calls for service per year that will be generated by development in the City at buildout. Then, an impact fee per unit is calculated by multiplying that cost per call by the number of calls for service per unit per year generated by each type of development defined in this study.
Impact Fee Summary
Table S.1 shows the calculation of impact fees from Table 3.5 in Chapter 3 of this report.
For any non-residential development project that does not reasonably fit into one of the development type categories defined in this report, a customized impact fee can be calculated by multiplying the cost per call shown in Table S.1 by the estimated number of calls per year that will be generated by that development project. Calls per year for such projects can be estimated by referring to the number of calls per year generated by similar uses in the City and adjusting for the size of the proposed project.
The City does not currently charge impact fees for Fire Department facilities, apparatus, vehicles or equipment.
City of Fountain Valley Page 1-1
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
The purpose of this study is to analyze the impacts of development on capital facilities and other capital assets of the Fountain Valley Fire Department and to calculate impact fees based on that analysis. This report documents the approach, data and methodology used in this study to calculate impact fees.
The methods used to calculate impact in this report are consistent with all legal requirements governing such fees, including provisions of the U. S. Constitution, the California Constitution and the California Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000-66025).
Legal Framework for Impact Fees
This brief summary of the legal framework for development fees is intended as a general overview. It was not prepared by an attorney and should not be treated as legal advice.
U. S. Constitution. Like all land use regulations, development exactions, including impact fees, are subject to the 5th Amendment prohibition on taking of private property for public use without just compensation. Both state and federal courts have recognized the imposition of impact fees on development as a legitimate form of land use regulation, provided the fees meet standards intended to protect again regulatory taking occurs when regulations unreasonably deprive landowners of property rights protected by the Constitution.
In two cases dealing with exactions, the U. S. Supreme Court has held that when a government agency requires the dedication of land or an interest in land as a condition of development approval or imposes exactions as a condition of approval on a development project, the agency must demonstrate an "essential nexus" between such exactions and the interest being protected (See Nollan v. California Coastal Commission, proportional" to the burden created by development (See Dolan v. City of Tigard, 1994).
In April 2024, the U. S. Supreme Court ruled that impact fees, even legislatively adopted impact fees, are subject to the provisions of Nollan and Dolan. The nexus required to justify exactions and impact fees can be thought of as having the three elements discussed below. We think proportionality is logically included as one element of that nexus, even though it was discussed separately in Dolan v. Tigard.
of impact fees.
1. Need or Impact. An agency imposing impact fees must demonstrate that a development project subject to those fees will create a need for the facilities to be funded by the impact fees. All new development in a community creates additional demands on some or all public facilities provided by local government. If the capacity of facilities is not City of Fountain Valley Page 1-2
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
increased to satisfy the additional demand, the quality or availability of public services for the entire community will deteriorate. Impact fees may be used to recover the cost of development-related facilities, but only to the extent that the need for facilities is related to the development project subject to the fees.
The Nollan decision reinforced the principle that development exactions may be used only to mitigate impacts created by the development projects upon which they are imposed. In this study, the impact of development on facility needs is analyzed in terms of quantifiable relationships between various types of development and the demand for public facilities based on applicable level-of-service standards. This report contains all of the information needed to demonstrate compliance with this element of the nexus.
2. Benefit. An agency imposing impact fees must demonstrate that a development project subject to those fees will benefit from the facilities funded by the impact fees. With respect to the benefit relationship, the most basic requirement is that facilities funded by impact fees be available to serve the development paying the fees. A sufficient benefit relationship also requires that impact fee revenues be segregated from other funds and expended in a timely manner on the facilities for which the fees were charged. Nothing in the U.S. Constitution or California law requires that facilities paid for with impact fee revenues be available exclusively to development projects paying the fees.
Procedures for earmarking and expenditure of fee revenues are mandated by the Mitigation Fee Act, as are procedures to ensure that the fees are either expended in a timely manner or refunded. Those requirements are intended to ensure that developments benefit from the impact fees they are required to pay. Thus, over time, procedural issues as well as substantive issues can come into play with respect to the benefit element of the nexus.
3. Proportionality. An agency imposing impact fees must demonstrate that the amount of those fees is proportional to the impact created by development projects subject to the fees. Proportionality in impact fees depends on properly identifying development-related facility costs and calculating the fees in such a way that those costs are allocated in proportion to the facility needs created by different types and amounts of development.
The section on impact fee methodology, below, describes methods used to allocate facility costs and calculate impact fees that meet the proportionality standard.
California Constitution. The California Constitution grants broad police power to local governments, including the authority to regulate land use and development. That police power is the source of authority for local governments in California to impose impact fees on development. Some impact fees have been challenged on grounds that they are special taxes imposed without voter approval in violation of Article XIIIA. Impact fees calculated in this report do not exceed the cost of providing facilities needed to serve new development and, thus, are not special taxes requiring voter approval pursuant to Article XIIIA.
Articles XIIIC and XIIID, added to the California Constitution by Proposition 218 in 1996, - City of Fountain Valley Page 1-3
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
from those requirements.
The Mitigation Fee Act. during the 1987 session of the Legislature and took effect in January 1989. AB 1600 added several sections to the Government Code, beginning with Section 66000. Since that time, the impact fee statute has been amended from time to time, and in 1997 was officially report are from the Government Code.
The Mitigation Fee Act does not limit the types of capital improvements for which impact fees may be charged. It defines public facilities very broadly to include "public improvements, public services and community amenities." Although the issue is not specifically addressed in the Mitigation Fee Act, both case law and statute (see Government Code Section 65913.8) clarify that impact fees may not be used to pay for ongoing maintenance or operating costs. Consequently, the fees calculated in this report are based on the cost of capital assets only.
that is charged
by a local agency to the applicant in connection with approval of a development project for the purpose of defraying all or a portion of the cost of public facilities related to the To avoid confusion with other types of fees, this report uses the widely accepted term Act.
The Mitigation Fee Act contains requirements for establishing, increasing and imposing impact fees. They are summarized below. It also contains provisions that govern the collection and expenditure of fees and requires annual reports and periodic re-evaluation of impact fee programs. Those administrative requirements are discussed in the implementation chapter of this report.
Required Findings. Section 66001 (a) requires that an agency establishing, increasing or imposing impact fees, must make findings to:
1. Identify the purpose of the fee
2. Identify the use of the fee; and
3. Determine that there is a reasonable relationship between the use of the fee and the development type on which it is imposed
4. Determine that there is a reasonable relationship between the need for the facility and the type of development on which the fee is imposed City of Fountain Valley Page 1-4
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
In addition, Section 66001 (b) requires that in any action imposing a fee as a condition of approval of a development project by a local agency, the local agency shall determine how there is a reasonable relationship between the amount of the fee and the cost of the public facility or portion of the public facility attributable to the development on which the fee is imposed.
The requirements outlined above are discussed in more detail below.
Identifying the Purpose of the Fees. The broad purpose of impact fees is to protect public health, safety and general welfare by providing for adequate public facilities. The specific purpose of the fees calculated in this study is to fund acquisition or construction of certain capital assets that will be needed to mitigate the impacts of planned new development on District facilities, and to maintain an acceptable level of public services as the District grows.
This report recommends that findings regarding the purpose of an impact fee should define the purpose broadly, as providing for the funding of adequate public facilities to serve additional development.
Identifying the Use of the Fees. According to Section 66001(a)(2), if a fee is used to finance public facilities, those facilities must be identified. That section states that a capital improvement plan may be used for that purpose but is not mandatory if the facilities are identified in a General Plan, a Specific Plan, or in other public documents.
Section 66002 (a) states that the capital improvement plan shall indicate the approximate location, size, time of availability and estimates of cost for all facilities or improvements to be financed with the fees. Section 66002 (b) requires that if a capital improvement plan is used to identify the facilities, it must be updated annually.
However, a new provision in Section 66016.5(a)(6), which was added by AB 602 in 2021, requires that large jurisdictions adopt a capital improvement plan as part of an impact fee study. That requirement applies to impact fee nexus studies adopted after January 1, county. The amendment contained in AB 602 overrides the original language of Section 66001(a)(2), so that a capital improvement plan (CIP) is no longer optional. A CIP is now required for all new impact fee nexus studies adopted by large jurisdictions. The annual update requirement for the CIP appears to remain in effect.
Reasonable Relationship Requirement. As discussed above, Section 66001 requires that, for fees subject to its provisions, a "reasonable relationship" must be demonstrated between:
1. the use of the fee and the type of development on which it is imposed;
2. the need for a public facility and the type of development on which a fee is imposed; and,
3. the amount of the fee and the facility cost attributable to the development on which the fee is imposed.
City of Fountain Valley Page 1-5
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Development Agreements and Reimbursement Agreements. The requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act do not apply to fees collected under development agreements (see Govt. Code Section 66000) or reimbursement agreements (see Govt. Code Section 66003). The same is true of fees in lieu of park land dedication imposed under the Quimby Act (see Govt. Code Section 66477).
Existing Deficiencies. In 2006, Section 66001(g) was added to the Mitigation Fee Act (by stated in the bill, was to codify the holdings of Bixel v. City of Los Angeles (1989), Rohn v.
City of Visalia (1989), and Shapell Industries Inc. v. Governing Board (1991). increased demand for public facilities reasonably related to the development project in order to (1) refurbish existing facilities to maintain the existing level of service or (2) achieve an adopted level of service that is consistent with the general plan. added.)
Impact Fees for Existing Facilities. Impact fees may be used to recover costs for existing facilities to the extent that those facilities are needed to serve additional development and have the capacity to do so. In other words, it must be possible to show that fees used to pay for existing facilities meet the need and benefit elements of the nexus. As a practical matter, such fees are difficult to implement unless the fees are needed to repay outstanding debt related to the facilities in question.
Recent Legislation
Several new laws enacted by the State of California since 2019 to facilitate development of affordable housing bear on the implementation of impact fees calculated in this study.
Below are brief overviews of some key bills passed since 2019.
SB 330 The Housing Crisis Act of 2019. SB 330 (amended and clarified in 2021 by SB 8) contained a variety of amendments designed to promote affordable housing. Among them was a provision in Government Code Section 65589.5 that prohibits the imposition of new approval requirements on a housing development project once a preliminary application has been submitted. That provision applies to increases in impact fees except when the resolution or ordinance establishing the fee authorizes automatic, inflationary adjustments to the fee or exaction. These provisions will remain in effect until January 1, 2030.
AB 1483 Housing Data: Collection and Reporting (2019). AB 1483 added Section 65490.1 to the Government Code, and requires that a city, county or special district must post on its website a current schedule of its fees and exactions, as well as associated nexus studies and annual reports. Updates must be posted within 30 days.
SB 13 Accessory Dwelling Units (2019). SB 13 amended Government Code Section 65852.2 to prohibit the imposition of impact fees on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) City of Fountain Valley Page 1-6
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
smaller than 750 square feet and to require that impact fees for ADUs of 750 square feet or more must be proportional to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit. The proportionality requirement means that impact fees for ADUs of 750 square feet or more must be calculated on a case-by-case basis during the approval process.
Existing law requires a water or sewer connection fee or capacity charge for an accessory dwelling unit requiring a new or separate utility connection to be based on either the vises the
basis for calculating the connection fee or capacity charge to either the accessory dwelling Note that SB 477 (2024) relocated and consolidated California ADU laws intact into a new chapter of the Government Code (Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7) which contains Sections 66310 through 66342.
AB 602 Amendments to the Planning and Land Use Law and the Mitigation Fee Act (2021). AB 602 adds Section 65940.1 to the Planning and Land Use Law requiring cities, counties and special districts that have internet websites to post schedules of fees, exactions and affordability requirements, annual fee reports, and an archive of nexus studies on that website, and to update that information within 30 days after any changes.
AB 602 also adds Section 66016.5 to the Mitigation Fee Act imposing several new requirements for impact fees that went into effect in 2022, including:
A nexus study must identify the existing level of service for each facility, identify the proposed new level of service (if any), and explain why the new level of service is appropriate.
If a nexus study supports an increase in an existing fee the local agency shall review the assumptions of the nexus study supporting the original fee and evaluate the amount of the fees collected under the original fee.
Large jurisdictions (counties over 250,000 and cities within those counties) must adopt a capital improvement plan as part of the nexus study.
All impact fee nexus studies shall be adopted at a public hearing with at least 30 requests notice of intent to begin and impact fee nexus study of the date of the hearing.
Nexus studies shall be updated at least every eight years, from the period beginning on January 1, 2022.
A nexus study adopted after July 1, 2022, shall calculate a fee imposed on a housing development project proportionately to the square footage of proposed units in the development. A nexus study is not required to comply with this requirement if the local agency makes certain findings specified in the law. A local agency that imposes a fee proportionately to the square footage of units in the development shall be deemed to have used a valid method to establish a City of Fountain Valley Page 1-7
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
reasonable relationship between the fee charged and the burden posed by the development.
Authorizes any member of the public, including an applicant for a development project, to submit evidence that impact fees proposed by an agency fail to comply with the Mitigation Fee Act, and requires the legislative body of the agency to consider such evidence and adjust the proposed fee if deemed necessary.
AB 516 Amendments to the Mitigation Fee Act (2023). AB 516, which took effect on January 1, 2024, amends Government Code Section 66006 to add certain requirements to the annual reports mandated by that section. Specifically, Section 66006 now requires that:
Annual reports indicate whether construction on public improvements identified in previous annual reports began on the approximate date shown in the previous annual report; and,
If a project failed to start construction on schedule, the annual report must explain the reason for the delay and provide a revised approximate date when construction will begin.
AB 516 also amends Section 66023 to provide that when a person requests an audit of a fee or charge levied by a local agency, that audit may address when revenue generated by that fee or charge is scheduled to be expended, and when the public improvement to be funded by that fee or charge is scheduled to be completed. Prior to this amendment, the only stated purpose of such an audit was to determine whether such a fee or charge exceeds the amount reasonably necessary to cover the cost of any product, public facility or service provided by the local agency.
Section 66023 also requires local agencies to inform a person paying a fee as a condition of development approval of their right to request such an audit, and their right to file a or fund information. The agency must also provide the person with a link to the page on review.
Impact Fee Calculation Methodology
The methods used to calculate impact fees in this study are designed to comply with all of the legal requirements discussed earlier in this chapter. Any one of several legitimate methods may be used to calculate impact fees. The choice of a particular method depends primarily on the service characteristics of, and planning requirements for, the type of facility being addressed. To some extent those methods are interchangeable, because they all allocate facility costs in proportion to the needs created by development.
Allocating facility costs to various types and amounts of development is central to all methods of impact fee calculation. Costs are allocated by means of formulas that quantify the relationship between development and the need for facilities. In a cost allocation City of Fountain Valley Page 1-8
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
formula, the impact of development is represented by some attribute of development such as added population or added vehicle trips that represent the impacts created by different types and amounts of development.
Although it is not mandatory, this study adopts the nomenclature used in the Impact Fee Nexus Study Templates prepared by the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley to describe impact fee calculation methods. Those templates were prepared for The California Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant to Section 50466.5 of the Health and Safety Code and are cited in AB 602.
Planned Facility Method. With this method, impact fees are calculated so that new development will pay for needed new facilities or the planned expansion of existing facilities attributable to new development. To calculate the cost per unit of demand, the cost of planned facilities is divided by the units of demand that will be created by new development. The impact fees depend on the cost of planned future facilities and a plan for future development, so the fees should be recalculated if facility plans or development plans change.
Existing Inventory Method. With this method, impact fees are calculated so that new development will fund new facilities or the expansion of existing facilities to maintain the same standard established to serve existing development. To calculate the cost per unit of demand, the value of existing facilities is divided by the units of demand associated with existing development. This method allows impact fees to be calculated without a list of planned facilities, but such a list is required by AB 602 as part of a Capital Improvement Plan that must be adopted with any new impact fee nexus study. This approach can be used to calculate impact fees for many types of public facilities but is usually not appropriate for facilities such as transportation improvements or water, wastewater or drainage systems where improvement needs must be determined by engineering analysis.
System Plan Method. With this method, impact fees are calculated so that new development pays for its share of the cost of an integrated system of facilities at a planned future standard. To calculate the cost per unit of demand, the value of existing facilities plus the cost of planned facilities is divided by the combined units of demand associated with both existing development and planned development. This approach is especially appropriate for impact fees for fire protection and EMS facilities because new facilities must be planned to integrate geographically with existing facilities.
Impact Fees for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Government Code Chapter (Chapter 13, Division 1, Title 7). Recent amendments to ADU law provide that impact fees may not be imposed on ADUs smaller than 750 square feet and establish the following requirement for impact fees imposed on ADUs of 750 square feet or more:
City of Fountain Valley Page 1-9
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
more shall be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the The proportionality requirement depends on the square footage of both the primary unit and the ADU, which may necessitate that impact fees for ADUs be calculated on a caseby-case basis. Consequently, this report does not calculate a schedule of impact fees for ADUs. The formula for calculating proportional ADU impact fees is:
Primary unit impact fee X (ADU square feet / Primary unit square feet) Where impact fees are charged on a square foot basis, those fees satisfy the proportionality requirement for ADUs, and may be imposed on ADUs.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-1
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
This chapter presents data on existing and future development that will be used to calculate impact fees in subsequent chapters of this report. The information in this chapter may be used to establish levels of service, analyze facility needs, and/or allocate the cost of capital facilities between existing and future development and among various types of new development.
Study Area
The study area for this study is the entire City of Fountain Valley.
Time Horizon
Planned future development in this study is forecasted to buildout as indicated in Table LUthe methods used to calculate impact fees in this study do not depend on the timing of future development.
Development Types
The development types for which impact fees are calculated in this report are discussed below. Impact fees calculated in this report are intended to be applied based on actual land uses rather than zoning or general plan land use designations. For mixed use development projects, impact fees should be applied to each type of development within the project, consistent with the number of units of development of each type within the project.
Residential Development. Traditionally, impact fees for residential development are based on the type of unit, e.g., single-family, multi-family or mobile home. However, Government Code Section 66016.5(a)(5)(A) which was added to the Mitigation Fee Act by AB 602 in 2021 contains the following requirement:
project proportionately to the square footage of proposed units of the development. A local agency that imposes a fee proportionately to the square footage of the proposed units of the development shall be deemed to have used a valid method to establish a reasonable relationship between the However, Section 66016.5(a)(5)(B) provides that a nexus study is not required to comply with Section 66016.5(a)(5)(A) if the local agency makes a finding that includes all of the following:
1. An explanation as to why square footage is not the appropriate metric to calculate fees imposed on a housing development project.
2. An explanation that an alternative basis of calculating the fee bears a reasonable relationship between the fee charged and the burden imposed by the development.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-2
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
3. That other policies in the fee structure support smaller developments or otherwise ensure that smaller developments are not charged disproportionate fees
The proportionality requirement in Section 66016.5(a)(5)(A) is often interpreted to mean that impact fees must have a linear relationship to unit square footage. That means the fees must increase by the same amount for every added square foot of unit size. Such a fee structure results in impact fees that are necessarily five times as high for a 3,000 square-foot single-family unit as for a 600 square apartment.
That type of fee structure is justified only if the actual impact of a 3,000 square-foot unit is five times greater than the impact of a 600 square-foot unit. Otherwise, the impact fees could
in Dolan v. Tigard [512 U. S. 374 (1994)]. The recent U. S. Supreme Court decision in Sheetz v. County of El Dorado [601 U. S. 267 (2024)] made clear that Dolan applies to all impact fees, whether they are applied ad hoc or legislatively adopted.
What we see in analyzing patterns of service demand is that the relationship between our experience, basing fire impact fees for residential development on square footage would significantly overstate the impact of larger units on the need for fire department capital assets.
It is not feasible to get specific data on fire calls by unit size, but the difference in the average number of fire department calls-per-unit-per-year generated by single-family units as opposed to multi-family units is relatively small. For the Fountain Valley Fire Department, the average number of calls per unit per year for single family units is about 20% higher than for multi-family units. So, a fee structure that results in large units paying five times as much as small units would be disproportionate to the actual demand created by units of different.
Instead of calculating linear impact fees based directly on square footage, this study breaks down residential development into tiered square-feet-per-unit ranges and calculates an impact fee for each range or category. That approach allows impact fees to be graduated by unit size while avoiding the distortions that result from a rigid, fixed fee per square foot approach, and while respecting the need for rough proportionality between the fees and the impact of development as set forth in Dolan v. Tigard. Based on the foregoing discussion, we propose that the City of Fountain Valley City Council adopt the following findings pursuant to Government Code Section 66016.5(a)(5)(B) to justify the use of tiered square footage ranges for residential development in this study rather than a fixed fee-per-square-foot approach:
1. A fixed fee-per-square-foot approach would not reflect the actual impact of different-sized residential units on the facilities addressed in this study and would not meet the rough proportionality standard set forth in Dolan v. Tigard.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-3
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
2. The use of tiered square footage ranges, rather than a fixed fee per square foot approach, better reflects the relationship between the fees charged and the actual burden imposed by various types of development.
3. Calculating impact fees for tiered square footage ranges rather than a fixed fee per square foot still ensures that smaller developments are not charged disproportionate fees because that approach allows the impact fees to be tailored to the actual impacts created by smaller developments, while protecting larger units from excessive fees.
As discussed above, residential development categories are defined in this study by ranges of unit sizes rather than by unit types (e.g., single-family or multi-family) as is the -size ranges used to define residential
development in this study are listed below.
Residential <600 Square Feet per Unit
Residential >600-800 Square Feet per Unit
Residential >800-1,200 Square Feet per Unit
Residential >1,200-1,800 Square Feet per Unit
Residential >1,800-2,400 Square Feet per Unit
Residential >2,400 Square Feet per Unit
Each of these unit-size ranges is typical of units with a certain number of bedrooms, ranging from studio and one-bedroom apartments up to single-family units with four or more bedrooms.
Non-Residential Development. Non-residential development types used in this study are:
Senior/Assisted Living
Hotel/Motel
Commercial
Office/Medical
Industrial
The impact fees calculated in this report are intended to be applied to development projects, or portions of projects, based on the actual type of development being constructed. Except for the Senior/Assisted Living category which is measured in terms of beds, and the Hotel/Motel category which is measured in terms of guest rooms, the nonresidential development types listed above are measured in terms of gross leasable floor area in thousands of square feet (KSF).
Public Facilities, Public Schools and Parks. In addition to the development types listed above, the development tables presented later in this chapter include public (government) facilities, public schools and parks. The City does not impose impact fees on those uses, either because of legal constraints or because it would be imposing the fees on itself, which serves no purpose. However, those uses do create measurable City of Fountain Valley Page 2-4
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
impacts on fire protection/emergency medical services and they are included in the impact fee analysis so that the impacts associated with those exempt uses can be distinguished from demand associated with fee-paying development types.
Other types of Development. The development types for which impact fees are calculated in this study will encompass most new development in the City. But there may types defined in this study. it is possible for City staff to calculate a project-specific impact fee at the time a project is being considered for approval.
To calculate a customized fire impact fee, it would be necessary to estimate the number of calls for service per year that will be generated by the project based on the number of calls for service per year generated by similar existing uses in the City. Then, that number would be multiplied by the cost per call calculated in Chapter 3 of this study to arrive at the fire impact fee for the project.
Demand Variable
To calculate impact fees, the relationship between facility needs and development must be quantified in cost allocation formulas. Certain measurable attributes of development resent
the impact of different types of development on various types of facilities.
The demand variable used in this study to represent the impact of development on Fire Department facilities and other capital assets is calls for service per year.
Fire Department Calls for Service per Year. Demand for fire protection and emergency response services provided by the Fountain Valley Fire Department (FVFD) is impacted by both residential and non-residential development. In this study, the number of calls for service per unit per year to the FVFD is used to represent the demand associated with various types of development in the City.
The calls-for-service factors used in this study are based on analysis by NBS of a random sample of all calls for service to FVFD for a one-year period from February 1, 2024 to January 31, 2025. NBS analyzes calls-for-service records to establish the distribution of calls generated by various types of development in the City. That allows us to calculate impact fees that reflect the proportionate impact of different types of development on acilities and other capital assets.
As part of this study, NBS analyzed a random sample of 500 of the more than 7,800 calls for service logged by FVFD during that one-year period. That sample size results in a margin of error of 4.24% at the 95% confidence level.
One thing that analysis showed is that 26% of the calls for service to which FDVFD responded were to locations outside the City. FVFD responded to those calls under automatic aid agreements with neighboring fire departments. Conversely, it is known that a significant number of calls to locations within the City are served by other fire departments under automatic aid.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-5
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
No data were available for this study with respect to the calls served by other departments. However, if we make the reasonable assumption that the distribution of those calls is similar to the distribution of all calls generated in the City, the inability to include those calls in our analysis does not affect the proportional distribution of calls underlying the impact fee analysis.
To produce a calls-per-unit-per-year factor for each type of development defined in this study, the percentage of sampled calls associated with each type of development was applied to the total number of calls for the one-year period to estimate the number of calls generated by each type of development for the year. Then, the number of calls per year was divided by the number of existing units for each type of development to arrive at the average number of calls per unit per year. About 11% of all calls could not be associated with a particular type of development and were excluded from the analysis.
The calls-for-service analysis produced data for residential development by unit type, rather than unit size. So, the overall average rate of calls per unit per year for all residential units is used as the midpoint in estimating calls for service factors for the unitsize categories used in this study. Those factors are scaled up and down from that midpoint relative to unit size. The overall range of call rates from the smallest to the largest units is adjusted for consistency with the extent of differences in call rates for single-family and multi-family units. Fire calls-per-unit-per-year factors for each type of development defined in this study are shown in Table 2.1.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-6
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Existing and Future Development
Tables 2.2 through 2.4, beginning on the next page, present summaries of existing and future development, by development type, in Fountain Valley. Table 2.2 shows estimated existing development as of January 1, 2025.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-7
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Table 2.3, on the next page, shows projected future development in Fountain Valley to buildout.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-8
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Table 2.4 on the next page shows projected total development in Fountain Valley at buildout.
City of Fountain Valley Page 2-9
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
The numbers presented in Tables 2.2 through 2.4 indicate that projected growth in the City between 2025 and buildout will represent an increase of about 25% in the number of calls for service generated by all types of development in Fountain Valley. At buildout calls generated by new development between 2025 and buildout will represent about 20% of all calls for service to the Fountain Valley Fire Department.
The impact fees calculated in this report are intended to pay for capital facilities and other capital assets needed by FVFD to serve that additional development.
City of Fountain Valley Page 3-1
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
This chapter calculates impact fees for Fountain Valley Fire Department (FVFD) facilities, apparatus and vehicles. The City of Fountain Valley currently has two fire stations. Plans are in development to construct a new fire station on a new site to replace Fire Station No. 1. Fire Station No. 2 will remain at its current location.
Methodology
Fire impact fees are calculated in this report using the system plan method, one of three impact fee calculation methods discussed in Chapter 1. With this method, impact fees are calculated so that new development pays for its share of the cost of an integrated system of facilities at a planned future level-of-service standard.
The cost per call for service which serves as the basis for the impact fees is calculated as the sum of the value of existing facilities plus the cost of planned facilities divided by the projected calls for service associated with both existing development and planned development at buildout. This approach is especially appropriate for impact fees for fire protection and EMS facilities because both existing and future fire department assets will serve both existing and new development.
Service Area
Fountain Valley Fire Department facilities serve all development in the City. FVFD also responds to calls outside the City under automatic aid agreements with other departments and those departments reciprocate by responding to calls in Fountain Valley. The impact fees calculated in this chapter are intended to apply to all new development in the City other than public facilities and public schools.
Demand Variable
a quantifiable attribute of development that is used in impact fee calculation formulas to represent the impact of development. The demand variable used to calculate impact fees for Fire Department facilities in this chapter is calls for service per year.
The calls-per-unit-per-year factors used to calculate impact fees for FVFD facilities in this chapter are shown in Table 2.1 in Chapter 2 and are used in Table 3.5 in to calculate impact fees per unit for each type of development defined in this study. For more detail on how the factors for each type of development were determined, see the discussion in Chapter 2.
Level-of-Service Standard
Because the system plan method is used to calculate impact fees in this chapter, the effective level-of-service standard for those impact fees will be the relationship between City of Fountain Valley Page 3-2
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
FVFD capital asset costs and calls for service per year at buildout. That level of service is stated as a cost per call for service per year.
In 2021, Section 66016.5 was added to the Mitigation Fee by Act AB 602. That section requires that, after January 1, 2022, the level of service used to calculate impact fees in an impact fee nexus study must be compared with the existing level of service. If the level used in the impact fee study exceeds the existing level of service, an explanation is required.
The level of service at buildout, as projected in this study, will exceed the existing level of mid- elopment. The
overall cost of the existing and planned FVFD assets that will be in service at buildout. ted calls for service per
year at buildout.
Existing Fire Department Facilities
Table 3.1 shows two fire stations. One is a new station planned to replace the existing Station No. 1. The other is the existing Station No. 2. Costs shown for fire stations include cost costs for land and construction. The impact fee cost basis in Table 3.1 is the sum of estimated land costs and depreciated building costs.
Table
replacement cost and depreciated replacement cost. Depreciated replacement cost is used as the impact fee cost basis for existing apparatus and vehicles. Because the number of stations considered in this analysis will not increase, the complement of apparatus and vehicles needed by FVFD will not increase. Replacement of existing apparatus and vehicles are not covered by impact fees. Table 3.2 also includes the cost of personal protective equipment for the current number of firefighters, engineers and captains, as well as the cost of self-contained breathing apparatus.
City of Fountain Valley Page 3-3
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Table 3.3 summarizes the total impact fee cost basis from Tables 3.1 and 3.2.
Table 3.4 on the next page calculates the cost per call for service per year at buildout by dividing the total impact fee cost basis from Table 3.3 by the projected buildout calls for service per year from Table 2.4 in Chapter 2.
City of Fountain Valley Page 3-4
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
In the next section, the cost per call from Table 3.4 is used to calculate impact fees per unit for each type of development defined in this study.
Impact Fees per Unit
Table 3.5 shows the calculation of impact fees per unit for FVFD facilities, apparatus and vehicles. Those fees are calculated using the cost per call from Table 3.4 and calls-perunit-per-year factors from Table 2.1.
City of Fountain Valley Page 3-5
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Projected Revenue
Table 3.6 projects potential revenue from the fire impact fees calculated in this chapter.
That projection is based on the cost per call from Table 3.4 and the added calls per year from Table 2.3.
The projected revenue shown in Table 3.6 represents approximately 25% of the estimated cost of replacing Station No. 1, as shown in Table 3.1.
Updating the Fees
The impact fees calculated in this chapter are based on current dollar costs. We recommend that the fees be reviewed annually and adjusted as needed using local data and/or and index such as the California Cost Index, published by the Department of General Services or the Engineering News Record Building Cost Index (BCI). The City will be required to update the nexus study at least every eight years, per Government Code Section 66016.5(a)(8).
Use of the Impact Fees
FVFD projects that all of the revenue generated by impact fees calculated in this chapter will be used to contribute to the cost of replacement Station No. 1. That could involve the use of impact fees to help retire debt or contribute to lease-purchase payments for that facility.
Nexus Summary
As discussed in Chapter 1 of this report, Section 66001 of the Mitigation Fee Act requires that an agency establishing, increasing or imposing impact fees, must make findings to:
Identify the purpose of the fee;
Identify the use of the fee; and,
Determine that there is a reasonable relationship between:
a. The use of the fee and the development type on which it is imposed; City of Fountain Valley Page 3-6
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
b. The need for the facility and the type of development on which the fee is imposed; and
c. The amount of the fee and the facility cost attributable to the development project.
in Chapter 1.) The following paragraphs explain how the impact fees calculated in this chapter satisfy those requirements.
Purpose of the Fee: The purpose of the impact fees calculated in this chapter is to provide require new development to contribute its proportionate share of the cost of Fire Department facilities, apparatus and vehicles needed to serve development in Fountain Valley.
Use of the Fee. Impact fees calculated in this chapter will be used to pay for the construction of a replacement for the existing Fire Station No. 1 which will provide additional capacity to serve both existing and future development in Fountain Valley.
Reasonable Relationship between the Use of the Fee and the Development Type on Which It Is Imposed. All new development creates a demand for services provided by FVFD. The impact fees calculated in this chapter will be used to pay for new facilities, apparatus and vehicles needed to provide that service.
Reasonable Relationship between the Need for the Facilities and the Type of Development on Which the Fee Is Imposed. Added calls for service associated with new development will increase the need for capacity in FVFD facilities. The fire impact fees will fire station in Fountain Valley.
Reasonable Relationship between the Amount of the Fee and the Facility Cost Attributable to the Development Project. The amount of the fire impact fees charged to a development project will depend on the increase in calls for service associated with that project. The fees per unit of development calculated in this chapter for each type of development are based on the estimated average calls for service per unit per year for that type of development in Fountain Valley. Thus, the fee charged to a development project reflects the impact of that project on Fire Department facilities in the City.
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-1
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
This chapter of the report summarizes requirements for adoption and administration of impact fees, calculated in this study. It was not prepared by an attorney and is not intended as legal advice.
Statutory requirements for the adoption and administration of fees imposed as a condition of development approval (impact fees) are found in the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq.).
Adoption
Procedures for adoption of fees subject to the Mitigation Fee Act, including notice and public-hearing requirements, are specified in Government Code Sections 66016 and 66018. It should be noted that Section 66018 refers to Government Code Section 6062a, which requires that the public hearing notice be published at least twice during the 10- day notice period. However, Section 66016.5 added by AB 602 in 2021 requires that impact fee nexus studies be adopted at a public hearing with at least a 30-day notice.
Government Code Section 66017 provides that fees subject to the Mitigation Fee Act do not become effective until 60 days after final action by the governing body.
Actions establishing or increasing fees subject to the Mitigation Act require certain findings, as set forth in Government Code Section 66001 and discussed in Chapter 1 of this report.
Administration
The Mitigation Fee Act mandates procedures for administration of impact fee programs, including collection and accounting, reporting, and refunds. References to code sections in the following paragraphs pertain to the California Government Code.
Notices and Statute of Limitations. Section 66006 (f) provides that a local agency, at the time it imposes a fee for public improvements on a specific development project, "... shall identify the public improvement that the fee will be used to finance." The required notification could refer to the capital improvement plan that must now be adopted with each new impact fee nexus study.
Section 66020 (d) (1) requires that the agency, at the time it imposes an impact fee, provide a written statement of the amount of the fee and written notice of a 90-day period during which the imposition of the fee can be protested. Failure to protest imposition of the fee during that period may deprive the fee payer of the right to subsequent legal challenge.
Section 66022 (a) provides a separate procedure for challenging the establishment of impact fees. Such challenges must be filed within 120 days of enactment.
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-2
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
Collection of Fees. Section 66007, as amended by SB 937 in 2024, provides that, with some exceptions, a local agency shall not require payment of impact fees by developers of residential development projects prior to the issuance of the first certificate of occupancy, or first temporary certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first.
If the residential development contains more than one dwelling, the local agency may determine whether the fees or charges shall be paid on a pro rata basis for each dwelling when it receives its final inspection of certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first,; on a pro rata basis when a certain percentage of the dwellings have received their final inspection or certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first; or on a lump-sum basis when the first dwelling in the development receives its final inspection or certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first.
An exception that allows utility service fees to be collected when an application for service Local agencies may require payment of fees or charges at an earlier time, if the fees are to reimburse the agency for expenditures previously made, if the agency determines that the fees or charges will be collected for public improvements or facilities for which an account has been established and funds appropriated, and a proposed construction schedule has been adopted.
Collection of fees or charges at an earlier time, as described in the previous paragraph, is not allowed for projects that reserve at least 49% of residential units for occupancy by lower income households. For such projects, the local agency may require posting of a performance bond or letter of credit from a federally insured depository institution to guarantee payment when the fees are eligible for collection.
In cases where the fees are not collected upon issuance of building permits, Sections 66007 (d) (1) and (2) provide that the City may require the property owner to execute a contract to pay the fee, and to record that contract as a lien against the property until the fees are paid. The local agency may not charge interest or other fees on any amounts deferred pursuant to Section 66007.
Statutory restrictions on the time at which fees may be collected do not apply to nonresidential development.
Earmarking and Expenditure of Fee Revenue. Section 66006 (a) mandates that fees be vement in a separate capital facilities account or
fund in a manner to avoid any commingling of the fees with other revenues and funds of the local agency, except for temporary investments, and expend those fees solely for the purpose for which the fee was collected. Section 66006 (a) also requires that interest earned on the fee revenues be placed in the capital account and used for the same purpose.
The language of the law is not clear as to whether depositing fees "with other fees for the improvement" refers to a specific capital improvement or a class of improvements (e.g., Fire Department facilities).
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-3
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
We are not aware of any municipality that has interpreted that language to mean that funds must be segregated by individual public facilities or improvement projects. As a practical matter, that approach would be unworkable because it would mean that no payas-you-go project could be constructed until all benefiting development had paid the fees.
Common practice is to maintain separate funds or accounts for impact fee revenues by facility category (i.e., streets, park improvements), but not for individual projects.
Impact Fee Exemptions, Reductions, and Waivers. In the event that a development project is found to have no impact on facilities for which impact fees are charged, such project must be exempted from the fees.
If a project has characteristics that will make its impacts on a particular public facility or infrastructure system significantly and permanently smaller than the average impact used to calculate impact fees in this study, the fees should be reduced accordingly to meet the requirement that there must be a reasonable relationship between the amount of the fee and the cost of the public facility attributable to the development on which the fee is imposed. The fee reduction is required if the fee is not proportional to the impact of the development on relevant public facilities.
In some cases, an agency may desire to voluntarily waive or reduce impact fees that would otherwise apply to a project as a way of promoting goals such as affordable housing or economic development. Such a waiver or reduction is within the discretion of the governing body but may not result in increased costs to other development projects. So, the effect of such policies is that the lost revenue must be made up from sources other than impact fees.
Credit for Improvements Provided by Developers. If the City requires a developer, as a condition of project approval, to dedicate land or construct facilities or improvements for which impact fees are charged, the City should ensure that the impact fees for that not exceed the impact created by the development.
In the event that a developer voluntarily offers to dedicate land, or construct facilities or improvements in lieu of paying impact fees, the City may accept or reject such offers and may negotiate the terms under which such an offer would be accepted. Excess contributions by a developer may be offset by reimbursement agreements.
Credit for Existing Development. If a project involves replacement, redevelopment or intensification of previously existing development, impact fees should be applied only to the portion of the project that represents a net increase in demand for relevant City facilities, applying the measure of demand used in this study to calculate that impact fee.
Annual Report. Section 66006(b)(1), as amended by AB 516 in 2023, requires that once each year, within 180 days of the close of the fiscal year, the local agency must make available to the public the following information for each separate account established to receive impact fee revenues:
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-4
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
1. A brief description of the type of fee in the account or fund;
2. The amount of the fee;
3. The beginning and ending balance of the account or fund;
4. The amount of the fees collected and interest earned;
5. Identification of each public improvement on which fees were expended and the amount of the expenditures on each improvement, including the percentage of the cost of the public improvement that was funded with fees;
6. Identification of the approximate date by which the construction of a public improvement will commence, if the City determines sufficient funds have been collected to complete financing of an incomplete public improvement;
7. A description of each inter-fund transfer or loan made from the account or fund, including interest rates, repayment dates, and a description of the improvement on which the transfer or loan will be expended;
8. Identification of each public improvement identified in a previous report and whether construction began on the approximate date noted in the previous report.
9. Where a project is shown not to have commenced construction by the approximate date provided in the previous report, the reason for the delay and a revised approximate date that the local agency will commence construction.
10. The amount of any refunds or allocations made pursuant to Section 66001, paragraphs (e) and (f).
The annual report must be reviewed by the City Council at its next regularly scheduled public meeting, but not less than 15 days after the statements are made public, per Section 66006 (b) (2).
Five-Year Findings and Refunds. Prior to 1996, The Mitigation Fee Act required that a local agency collecting impact fees was required to expend or commit impact fee revenue within five years or make findings to justify a continued need for the money. Otherwise, those funds had to be refunded. SB 1693, adopted in 1996 as an amendment to the Mitigation Fee Act, changed that requirement in material ways.
Now, Section 66001 (d) requires that, for the fifth fiscal year following the first deposit of any impact fee revenue into an account or fund as required by Section 66006 (b), and every five years thereafter, the local agency shall make all of the following findings for any fee revenue that remains unexpended, whether committed or uncommitted:
1. Identify the purpose to which the fee will be put;
2. Demonstrate the reasonable relationship between the fee and the purpose for which it is charged;
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-5
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
3. Identify all sources and amounts of funding anticipated to complete financing of incomplete improvements for which impact fees are to be used;
4. Designate the approximate dates on which the funding necessary to complete financing of those improvements will be deposited into the appropriate account or fund.
Those findings are to be made in conjunction with the annual reports discussed above. If such findings are not made as required by Section 66001, the local agency could be required to refund the moneys in the account or fund, per Section 66001 (d).
Once an agency determines in its annual report that sufficient funds have been collected to complete financing on incomplete improvements for which impact fee revenue is to be used, it must, within 180 days of that determination, identify an approximate date by which construction of the public improvement will be commenced (Section 66001 (e)). If the agency fails to comply with that requirement, it must refund impact fee revenue in the account according to procedures specified in Section 66001 (d). - Abbott and Kindermann, and Rick Jarvis, Managing Partner, Jarvis, Fay and Gibson, presented at the 2022 League of California Cities City Attorneys Spring Conference.
Audit Requests. Section 66023 provides that any person may request an audit to determine whether any fee or charge levied by a local agency exceeds the amount reasonably necessary to cover the cost of any product, public facility, as defined in Section 66000, or service provided by the local agency. The legislative body of the local agency may retain an independent auditor to conduct the audit but is not required to conduct an audit if an audit has been performed for the same fee within the previous 12 months.
The agency shall retain an independent auditor to conduct an audit only if the person who reasonable estimate of the cost of the independent audit. At the conclusion of the audit, the local agency shall reimburse unused sums, if any, or the requesting person shall pay the local agency the excess of the actual cost of the audit over the amount that was deposited.
However, if the local agency fails to comply with the annual report requirement of Section 66006 following the establishment, increase or imposition of a fee, but requires payment of that fee in connection with the approval of a development project for three consecutive years, the agency shall not require a deposit for the independent audit and shall pay the cost of the audit.
Indexing of Impact Fees. Impact fees calculated in this report that are based on current estimated costs should be adjusted periodically to account for changes in the cost of facilities or other capital assets that will be funded by those fees. That adjustment is intended to account for escalation in costs for land, construction, vehicles and other City of Fountain Valley Page 4-6
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
relevant capital assets. The
Index and the Engineering News Record Building Cost Index (BCI) are useful for indexing building construction costs. Where land costs are covered by an impact fee, land costs should be adjusted based on recent appraisals or other local information on land prices.
Estimated costs for vehicles and other equipment may be based on vendor quotes or other reliable sources.
Additional Requirements Imposed by AB 602
Chapter 1 listed some new requirements for impact fee nexus studies that went into effect in 2022. In addition to the requirements that apply to the preparation of impact fee nexus studies, there are some amendments to Section 65940.1 and Section 66016.5 that apply to the administration of impact fees, including the following:
1) A city, county or special district that has an internet website shall post on its website:
a) A current written schedule of fees, exactions and affordability requirements applicable to a proposed housing development project, and shall present that information in a manner that identifies the fees, exactions and affordability requirements that apply to each parcel and the fees that apply to each new water and sewer utility connection
b) All zoning ordinances and development standards and specifying the zoning, design and development standards that apply to each parcel c) A list of the information that will be required from any applicant for a development project, as specified in Government Code Section 69540 d) The current and five previous annual fee reports required by Government Code Section 66006 and Subsection 66013 (d).
e) An archive of impact fee nexus studies, cost of service studies or equivalent conducted on or after January 1, 2018.
2) The above information shall be updated within 30 days of any changes 3) A City or County shall request from a development proponent, upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final inspection, the total amount of fees and exactions associated with the project for which the certificate is issued. That information must be posted on the website and updated at least twice a year. 4) If a nexus study supports the increase of an existing fee, the local agency shall review the assumptions of the nexus study supporting the original fee and evaluate the amount of the fees collected under the original fee.
5) All studies shall be adopted at a public hearing with at least 30-day's notice and the local agency shall notify any member of the public that requests notice of intent to begin an impact fee nexus study of the date of the hearing.
City of Fountain Valley Page 4-7
Fire Impact Fee Study
September 8, 2025
6) Impact fee nexus studies shall be updated at least every eight years, beginning on January 1, 2022.
Training and Public Information
Effective administration of an impact fee program requires considerable preparation and training. It is important that those responsible for collecting the fees, and for explaining them to the public, understand both the details of the fee program and its supporting rationale.
It is also useful to pay close attention to handouts that provide information to the public regarding impact fees. Impact fees should be clearly distinguished from other fees, such as user fees for application processing, and the purpose and use of particular impact fees should be made clear.
Finally, anyone responsible for accounting, capital budgeting, or project management for projects involving impact fees must be fully aware of the restrictions placed on the expenditure of impact fee revenues. Fees must be expended for the purposes identified in the impact fee nexus study in which they were calculated and the City must be able to show that funds have been properly expended.
Fee Comparison
Appendix A-1 Page A-1
APPENDIX A
City of Fountain Valley 2025 Fire Facilities Impact Fee Study - Fee Comparison
FACILITY
TYPE UNITS 1 PROPOSED
FEE 2 BREA Existing 3 BREA Proposed 4 COSTA MESA 5 HUNTINGTON BEACH 6 NEWPORT BEACH 7 ORANGE 8 PLACENTIA 9 DU $1,107.58 $1,029.00 $844.11 $1,467.00 $740 - $986 Square Feet $0.880 $0.285 $1.730 $0.411
Imputed DU Fees 10 $1,584 - $2,112 $513 - $684 $3,114 - $4,152 $740 - $986 DU $886.06 $731.00 $349.85 $1,467.00
Square Feet $0.880 $0.285 $1.730 $0.944
Imputed DU Fees 10 $528 - $704 $171 - $228 $1038 - $1,384 $566 - &755 Bed $6,325.50
Square Feet $0.285
Rooms $1,009.13
Square Feet $0.191 $0.640 $0.285 $0.000 $1.820 $1.070 $0.577 Commercial Sq Ft $2.120 $0.191 $0.640 $0.285 $0.301 $1.820 $1.070 $0.577 Office Sq Ft $0.510 $0.267 $1.310 $0.285 $0.301 $2.790 $1.070 $0.821 Industrial Sq Ft $0.090 $0.136 $0.490 $0.285 $0.028 $0.990 $1.070 $0.411 Notes: 1
DU = dwelling unit; KSF = 1,000 gross sq ft of building area 2 Proposed impact fees from NBS 2025 Impact Fee Study; residential single-family fee based on the >1,800-2,400 sq ft category; residential multi-family fee based on the >600-800 sq. ft. category 3
Brea existing fire impact fees from City website 4
Brea proposed fire impact fees from 2024 impact fee study; 5 Costa Mesa fire impact fees from 2012-22 annual report - most recent report on City website 6 Huntington Beach fire impact fees from 2024 annual report 7 Newport Beach fire impact fees from 2024-25 fee schedule 8 City of Orange fire impact fees from the 2025 fee schedule 9 Placentia fire impact fees from the currently posted fee schedule 10 Imputed fees per dwelling unit (DU) apply the fee per square foot to the range of unit sizes shown in footnote 2 Hotel/Motel
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY COMPARISON AGENCIES
Senior/Assisted Living
Residential Single-Family
Residential Multi-Family
NBS - Local Government Solutions
Web: www.nbsgov.com | Toll-Free:800.676.7516 9/08/2025 1 of 1 ORDINANCE NO. _____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FOUNTAIN VALLEY ADDING SECTIONS 21.39.050 THROUGH
21.39.120 TO CHAPTER 21.39 OF TITLE 21 OF THE
FOUNTAIN VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING A
FIRE DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE FOR THE FOUNTAIN
VALLEY FIRE DEPARTMENT AND ADOPTING A FIRE
DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, the City of Fountain Valley (“City”) is authorized under the California Mitigation Fee Act, Government Code sections 66000 et seq., Fountain Valley Municipal Code Chapter 21.39, and the City’s police power to impose development impact fees to defray all or a portion of the cost of public facilities related to new development; and WHEREAS, the City retained NBS Government Finance Group to prepare the Fire Impact Fee Study, Revised Draft Final Report, dated September 8, 2025 (“Nexus Study”), evaluating the impacts of new development on Fountain Valley Fire Department capital facilities, apparatus, vehicles, and equipment; and WHEREAS, the Nexus Study identifies the purpose of the Fire Development Impact Fee, the use of fee revenues, the relationship between new development and the need for fire capital facilities, and the reasonable relationship between the amount of the fee and the cost of facilities attributable to new development; and WHEREAS, the City currently does not charge a development impact fee for fire department facilities, apparatus, vehicles, or equipment; and WHEREAS, the City is planning for the replacement of Fire Station No. 1 and related fire capital assets needed to maintain and expand fire protection and emergency response capacity required to serve future development; and WHEREAS, concurrently with this Ordinance, the City Council is considering adoption of a Resolution adopting the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, which identifies the facilities and improvements proposed to be financed in whole or in part with Fire Development Impact Fee revenues, including their approximate location, estimated size, anticipated timing, and estimated cost; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the Nexus Study, the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, the staff report, and all evidence and public testimony presented at the duly noticed public hearing; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the Fire Development Impact Fee is necessary to ensure that new development contributes its fair and proportionate share of the cost of fire protection capital facilities required to serve growth in the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the Fire Development Impact Fee satisfies the requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act, including Government Code sections 66001, 66006, 66016, 66016.5, and 66017, and satisfies applicable constitutional requirements, including the essential nexus and rough proportionality standards reflected in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission, Dolan v. City of Tigard, and Sheetz v. County of El Dorado; and
WHEREAS, residential fees are established using tiered dwelling-unit square footage categories, consistent with Government Code section 66016.5 and Assembly Bill 602; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that adoption of this Ordinance is not a project subject to environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act because it establishes a governmental funding mechanism and does not approve or commit the City to any specific capital project that may result in a physical change in the environment. Environmental review will be conducted separately for any specific capital improvement project funded in whole or in part with Fire Development Impact Fee revenues.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporates them herein by this reference.
SECTION 2. Findings. Based upon the Nexus Study, the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, the staff report, and the evidence presented at the public hearing, the City Council finds as follows:
A. The purpose of the Fire Development Impact Fee is to require new development to pay its fair and proportionate share of the cost of fire protection capital facilities, apparatus, vehicles, and equipment necessary to serve growth in the City.
B. Fire Development Impact Fee revenues shall be used only for the construction of, or debt service or lease-purchase payments associated with, replacement Fire Station No. 1 and related fire capital assets identified in the Nexus Study and Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan.
C. There is a reasonable relationship between the use of the Fire Development Impact Fee and the types of development on which the fee is imposed because new residential, commercial, office/medical, industrial, hotel/motel, senior living, and assisted living development generates additional demand for fire protection and emergency response services.
D. There is a reasonable relationship between the need for fire capital facilities and the types of development on which the fee is imposed because new development increases demand for fire protection and emergency response capacity and requires additional or expanded capital facilities to maintain service levels.
E. There is a reasonable relationship between the amount of the Fire Development Impact Fee and the cost of the fire capital facilities attributable to new development because the Nexus Study allocates costs based on projected calls for service by development type and calculates fees that do not exceed new development’s proportionate share of the cost of fire capital facilities.
F. The Fire Development Impact Fee satisfies the essential nexus and rough proportionality requirements applicable to development impact fees.
SECTION 3. Amendment to Chapter 21.39. Sections 21.39.050 through
21.39.120 are hereby added to Chapter 21.39 of Title 21 of the Fountain Valley Municipal Code to read as follows:
21.39.050 Fire Development Impact Fee established.
A Fire Development Impact Fee is hereby established and imposed on new development within the City to fund fire protection capital facilities, apparatus, vehicles, and equipment necessary to serve growth, as more particularly described in the Fire Impact Fee Study and Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan adopted by the City Council.
21.39.060 Purpose and use of fee.
The purpose of the Fire Development Impact Fee is to require new development to contribute its fair and proportionate share of the cost of fire protection capital facilities required to serve growth in the City. Fire Development Impact Fee revenues shall be used solely for the capital facilities and improvements identified in the Fire Impact Fee Study and Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan including the construction of or debt service or lease-purchase payments associated with replacement of Fire Station No. 1.
21.39.070 Applicability.
A. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or by state law, the Fire Development Impact Fee shall apply to all new residential and nonresidential development for which a building permit or other applicable development approval is issued on or after the effective date of the fee.
B. The fee shall apply to development categories identified in the fee schedule adopted by the City Council, including residential development by dwelling-unit size, senior or assisted living facilities, hotel or motel development, commercial development, office or medical development, and industrial development.
C. No Fire Development Impact Fee shall be imposed on accessory dwelling units smaller than 750 square feet. For accessory dwelling units of 750 square feet or more, the fee shall be charged proportionately in accordance with state law.
21.39.080 Fee Schedule.
The Fire Development Impact Fee shall be imposed in the amounts set forth in the fee schedule attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference. The City Council may amend the fee schedule from time to time by resolution in accordance with the Mitigation Fee Act and other applicable law.
21.39.090 Collection of Fee.
A. The Fire Development Impact Fee shall be collected at the time required by applicable state law.
B. For residential development, the fee shall be collected upon issuance of the first certificate of occupancy or first temporary certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first, unless state law provides otherwise.
C. For nonresidential development, the fee shall be collected prior to issuance of a building permit unless otherwise required by state law.
D. No building permit, certificate of occupancy, or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued unless the required Fire Development Impact Fee has been paid or other arrangements authorized by law have been approved by the City.
21.39.100 Deposit, accounting, and expenditure.
All Fire Development Impact Fee revenues shall be deposited into a separate capital facilities account and shall be accounted for, invested, and expended in accordance with the Mitigation Fee Act, including Government Code section 66006. Fee revenues shall not be commingled with the General Fund except for temporary investment purposes and shall be expended only for the purposes for which the fee was collected.
21.39.110 Annual report and five-year findings.
The City shall prepare annual reports and make any required five-year findings for Fire Development Impact Fee revenues in accordance with Government Code sections 66001 and 66006 and Chapter 21.39 of this Code.
21.39.120 Administration; adjustments.
A. The City Manager or designee is authorized to administer the Fire Development Impact Fee program, interpret this chapter, establish administrative procedures, determine applicable development categories, and take all actions necessary to implement this chapter consistent with the Mitigation Fee Act and other applicable law.
B. The City Council may amend the Fire Development Impact Fee, the fee schedule, or the Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan from time to time by ordinance, resolution, or other legally appropriate action, consistent with applicable law.
C. The City Council may approve annual administrative adjustments to the Fire Development Impact Fee based on a construction cost index or other appropriate inflationary index, provided that any adjustment is consistent with the Mitigation Fee Act and does not exceed the maximum fee supported by the applicable nexus study or other substantial evidence.
SECTION 4. Effective Date of Ordinance; Effective Date of Fee.
This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption. Pursuant to Government Code section 66017, the Fire Development Impact Fee established by this Ordinance shall not become effective until sixty (60) days after final action by the City Council adopting the fee.
SECTION 5. CEQA.
The City Council finds that adoption of this Ordinance is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(4), because it establishes a governmental funding mechanism and does not commit the City to any specific capital project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. Environmental review will be conducted separately for any individual capital improvement project funded in whole or in part with Fire Development Impact Fee revenues.
SECTION 6. Severability.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more portions may be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 7. Certification and Publication.
The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this ___ day of __________, 2026. _______________________________ Jim Cunneen, Mayor
ATTEST: ________________________________ Rick Miller, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: ________________________________ Harper & Burns LLP Attorneys for the City
EXHIBIT A
Fire Development Impact Fee Schedule
Development Type Unit Impact Fee per Unit
Residential <600 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $812.22
Residential 600–800 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $886.06
Residential >800–1,200 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $959.90
Residential >1,200–1,800 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,033.74
Residential >1,800–2,400 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,107.58
Residential >2,400 Sq. Ft. per Unit DU $1,181.42
Senior/Assisted Living Bed $6,325.50
Hotel/Motel Room $1,009.13
Commercial KSF $2,121.63
Office/Medical KSF $507.02
Industrial KSF $88.61
DU = dwelling unit; KSF = 1,000 gross sq. ft. of gross leasable area; Room = guest room or suite; Bed = accommodation for one resident or patient.
RESOLUTION NO. [CIP RESOLUTION NO. ____]
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOUNTAIN
VALLEY ADOPTING THE FOUNTAIN VALLEY FIRE IMPACT FEE
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTIONS 66002 AND 66016.5
WHEREAS, the City of Fountain Valley (“City”) is authorized under the California Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code sections 66000 et seq.), Fountain Valley Municipal Code Chapter 21.39, and the City’s police power to impose development impact fees to defray all or a portion of the cost of public facilities related to new development; and
WHEREAS, the City retained NBS Government Finance Group to prepare the Fountain Valley Fire Impact Fee Study, Revised Draft Final Report, dated September 8, 2025 (“Nexus Study”), evaluating the impacts of new development on Fountain Valley Fire Department (“FVFD”) capital facilities, apparatus, vehicles, and equipment; and WHEREAS, Government Code sections 66002 and 66016.5 require the City to identify the public facilities and improvements to be financed with development impact fee revenues, including the approximate location, size, timing of availability, and estimated cost of those facilities and improvements; and WHEREAS, the City has prepared the Fountain Valley Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan (“CIP”), attached hereto as Exhibit A, identifying the facilities and improvements proposed to be financed in whole or in part with fire development impact fee revenues; and
WHEREAS, the CIP identifies the replacement of Fire Station No. 1 as the primary capital improvement currently proposed to be financed in whole or in part with fire development impact fee revenues, and the Nexus Study includes related FVFD capital facilities, apparatus, vehicles, and equipment in the system plan cost basis used to calculate new development’s proportionate share; and WHEREAS, the CIP identifies the approximate location, estimated size, anticipated timing of availability, and estimated cost of the facilities and improvements proposed to be funded with fire development impact fee revenues; and WHEREAS, the Nexus Study, CIP, staff report, and supporting materials were made available for public review, and the City Council considered those materials and all public testimony presented at a duly noticed public hearing; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that adoption of the CIP is necessary to support the City’s fire development impact fee program and to satisfy the requirements of Government Code sections 66002 and 66016.5.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Adoption of Recitals. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 2. Adoption of Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan. The City Council hereby adopts the Fountain Valley Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan, attached hereto as Exhibit A.
Section 3. Required Findings. Based upon the Nexus Study, CIP, staff report, and evidence presented at the public hearing, the City Council finds that the CIP identifies the facilities and improvements to be financed in whole or in part with fire development impact fee revenues, including their approximate location, size, timing of availability, and estimated cost, consistent with Government Code sections 66002 and 66016.5.
Section 4. Relationship to Fire Development Impact Fee Program. The Replacement Fire Station No. 1 project identified in the CIP is necessary to maintain and expand FVFD capital facility capacity needed to serve future development.
Adoption of this CIP is intended to support the concurrent adoption of the City’s Fire Development Impact Fee Ordinance and to establish the capital improvement, estimated cost, and related planning information upon which the fire development impact fees are based.
Section 5. Future Updates. The CIP may be amended from time to time by City Council action to reflect updated project costs, timing, locations, facility needs, funding sources, or other changed circumstances. Any such update shall be made consistent with the Mitigation Fee Act and other applicable law.
Section 6. Environmental Review. Adoption of this Resolution and the CIP is not a “project” subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(4), because the action creates a government funding mechanism and does not commit the City to any specific capital project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. Environmental review will be conducted separately for any individual capital improvement project funded by fire development impact fee revenues.
Section 7. Severability. If any provision of this Resolution or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this Resolution are severable.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Manager or designee and City staff are authorized and directed to take all actions necessary and appropriate to implement this Resolution.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk is directed to certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and to cause the same to be published or posted as required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this ___ day of __________, 2026, by the following vote:
Ayes: _______________________________
Nays: _______________________________
Absent: ______________________________
Abstain: ______________________________
ATTEST: _____________________ ________________________ Rick Miller, City Clerk Jim Cunneen, Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: ____________________________ Attorneys for the City Harper & Burns LLP
EXHIBIT A
Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan1
This Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan ("CIP") identifies the public facilities and improvements to be financed in whole or in part with revenues generated by the City's Fire Development Impact Fee Program. The CIP is based upon the Fountain Valley Fire Impact Fee Study and is adopted pursuant to Government Code sections 66002 and 66016.5.
Replacement Fire Station No. 1
The City plans to replace existing Fire Station No. 1 with a new fire station facility located at a future site within the City of Fountain Valley. Final site acquisition and/or site designation will be subject to separate City review and approval. The replacement facility is anticipated to consist of approximately 21,616 building square feet situated on approximately 2.86 acres.
The project is anticipated to be constructed as future development occurs and sufficient funding becomes available. Project timing will depend upon site acquisition or designation, design, environmental review, permitting, financing, and construction scheduling. Nothing in this CIP constitutes approval of any specific capital project, and all future discretionary approvals, environmental review, and permitting requirements shall be completed as required by applicable law.
The estimated impact fee cost basis for the project is $38,125,000, consisting of approximately $30,000,000 in building construction cost and approximately $8,125,000 in land cost/value.
The Nexus Study projects that approximately $9,466,097 in Fire Development Impact Fee revenue will be generated at buildout. Fire Development Impact Fee revenues are expected to fund only a portion of the Replacement Fire Station No. 1 project.
Remaining project costs will be funded through other legally available City funding sources.
1 Source: Fountain Valley Fire Impact Fee Study. NBS Government Finance Group, September 8, 2025
Exhibit A – Page 2
Fire Impact Fee Capital Improvement Plan
The City Council finds that the Replacement Fire Station No. 1 project is necessary to maintain and expand fire protection and emergency response capacity required to serve future development within the City and that new development should contribute its proportionate share toward the cost of such facility.
The City may amend this CIP from time to time to reflect updated project costs, timing, location information, funding sources, facility needs, or other changed circumstances, consistent with the Mitigation Fee Act and other applicable law.
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST
To: Honorable Mayor and Agenda Date: July 14, 2026
Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Introduction of an Ordinance Restricting Kratom Three-Year Strategic Goals
Cultivate a welcoming culture and safe environment that makes our community “A Nice Place to Live.”
Ensure long-term fiscal stability by evaluating processes, and attract and retain revenue producing businesses/opportunities.
Attract and retain quality staff through best practices and trends.
Maintain, build, plan for, and modernize infrastructure to support the growth and future needs of the City.
Not applicable.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Proposed for City Council Introduction-First Read is an Ordinance Restricting certain activities involving Kratom. The proposed Ordinance is modeled on the Ordinance adopted by the County of Orange.
DISCUSSION
Kratom in its natural form has been shown to provide some benefits, such as mild pain relief and support for individuals seeking to reduce dependence on opioids. However, synthetic and highly concentrated 7-OH products pose serious health risks. Medical experts have warned that concentrated 7-OH has been described as “legal morphine.” Its heightened potency, combined with inconsistent labeling, creates significant danger, particularly for youth and unsuspecting users who may not realize they are consuming synthetic 7-OH rather than natural kratom.
According to news reports, Hoag has treated more patients for kratom use this year than in the previous 30 years combined, detoxing as many patients from 7-OH as fentanyl. Several jurisdictions, both in the U.S. and abroad, have restricted or banned kratom sales.
The neighboring city of Huntington Beach and the County of Orange have enacted ordinances to restrict the sale of kratom.
Introduction of an Ordinance Restricting Kratom
July 14, 2026
By approving this ordinance for the City of Fountain Valley, it will put limits on the distribution of kratom, most notably: 1) the prohibition of sales of synthetic kratom product containing more than 2% of the potent compound 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH); 2) prohibition of the sale of kratom products to anyone under age 21; 3) that kratom packaging be child-resistant and not attractive to children; and 4) mandate online retailers use an age-verification system.
FISCAL REVIEW
There is no fiscal impact related to this item.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
This item was noticed as a public hearing.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REVIEW
Not applicable.
ATTORNEY REVIEW
The Attorney(s) for the City have prepared this staff report and the proposed Ordinance.
ALTERNATIVES Alternative No. 1:
Alternative No. 2:
RECOMMENDATION
Introduce and approve a First Reading of an Ordinance restricting Kratom and adding a new chapter in the Fountain Valley Municipal Code §8.65 SALE, DISTRIBUTION, AND POSSESSION OF
KRATOM RESTRICTED.
Do not approve the attached Ordinance and, instead, wait until AB 1088 passes which is designed to regulate synthetic kratom and kratom products. However, there is no guarantee that this California Assembly Bill will pass. If passed, it will become law on January 1, 2027.
Staff is requesting City Council approval of Alternative No. 1 to adopt Local Ordinance as part of the Fountain Valley Municipal Code with a new chapter section: 8.65.
Prepared by: Caroline Kublin, Attorney for the City
Fiscal Review by: Ryan Smith, Finance Director
Attorney review by: Colin Burns, Attorney for the City
Approved by: Maggie Le, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Ordinance
Ordinance Restricting the Sale, Distribution, and Possession of Kratom Page 1 of 5 Council Meeting July 14, 2026
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-____
ORDINANCE RESTRICTING KRATOM
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY AMENDING THE FOUNTAIN
VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING NEW CHAPTER
8.65 RESTRICTING THE SALE, DISTRIBUTION, AND
POSSESSION OF KRATOM
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City Council to prohibit the sale, distribution, or possession of kratom and other products within the City of Fountain Valley that contain more than 2% of 7-hydroxymitragynine in the alkaloid fraction, recognizing the significant health risks associated with elevated concentrations of this alkaloid; and WHEREAS, kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, and its leaves are often consumed in powdered or extract form for their stimulant and sedative effects; and
WHEREAS, the active compounds in kratom include mitragynine and 7- hydroxymitragynine. While mitragynine is present in higher concentrations, 7- hydroxymitragynine is more potent and is largely responsible for the stronger pain-relieving, sedative, and euphoric effects; and
WHEREAS, 7-hydroxymitragynine binds to opioid receptors in the brain and has been shown to have euphoric and mood-enhancing effects, particularly at higher doses, which can increase its appeal for recreational use; and
WHEREAS, 7-hydroxymitragynine is believed to be more potent than morphine in terms of pain relief. Research has shown that it binds to opioid receptors in the brain with greater affinity than morphine, making it significantly more powerful in relieving pain. This greater potency raises significant concerns about its safety profile, especially regarding the potential for addiction, overdose, and adverse physical and psychological effects, including nausea, vomiting, and potential psychosis. These risks are compounded when products contain higher concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine; and
WHEREAS, scientific research and health advisories have raised concerns over the safety of kratom products, particularly those with higher concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine, which may increase the potential for abuse and harm to public health; and WHEREAS, several cities in California have taken steps to regulate or ban kratom products, recognizing the need to protect public safety, especially among vulnerable populations.
For example, Newport Beach, San Diego, and Oceanside have all enacted a complete ban on the sale, distribution, and possession of all kratom products – irrespective of the concentration of 7- hydroxymitragynine content; and
Ordinance Restricting the Sale, Distribution, and Possession of Kratom Page 2 of 5 Council Meeting July 14, 2026
WHEREAS, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued several warning letters to various companies for illegally marketing products containing enhanced levels of 7- hydroxymitragynine, culminating in a formal request to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on July 29, 2025, to place 7-hydroxymitragynine products on the controlled substance list; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of its residents by ensuring that products available for sale do not pose undue health risks; and WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to restrict the sale and distribution of kratom and other products containing more than 2% of 7-hydroxymitragynine in the alkaloid fraction, thereby reducing potential risks to public health and safety.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Fountain Valley, California hereby ordains as follows:
Section 1. New Chapter 8.65 is added to the Fountain Valley Municipal Code to read as follows:
“Chapter 8.65 SALE, DISTRIBUTION, AND POSSESSION OF KRATOM
RESTRICTED
§ 8.65.010 Purpose and Intent.
§ 8.65.020 Definitions.
§ 8.65.030 Sale, distribution, and possession of kratom restricted. § 8.65.040 Violations and Penalties.
§ 8.65.050 Severability.
§ 8.65.010 Purpose and Intent.
This article is enacted pursuant to the City’s plenary police powers to protect public safety, health and welfare. The express purpose of this article is to protect public health and safety by regulating access to kratom and other products containing more than 2% of 7- hydroxymitragynine in the alkaloid fraction.
§ 8.65.020 Definitions.
For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply. (a) “Attractive to children” means any of the following:
(1) Use of images that are attractive to children, including, but not limited to, images of any of the following, except as part of required health warnings:
Ordinance Restricting the Sale, Distribution, and Possession of Kratom Page 3 of 5 Council Meeting July 14, 2026
(A) Cartoons, toys, or robots.
(B) Any real or fictional humans.
(C) Fictional animals or creatures.
(D) Fruits or vegetables, except when used to accurately describe ingredients or flavors contained in a product.
(2) Likeness to images, characters, or phrases that are popularly used to advertise to children.
(3) Imitation of candy packaging or labeling, or other packaging and labeling of cereals, sweets, chips, or other food products typically marketed to children. (4) The terms “candy” or “candies” or variants in spelling such as “kandy” or “kandee.”
(5) Brand names or close imitations of brand names of candies, cereals, sweets, chips, or other food products typically marketed to children. (6) Any other image or packaging that is easily confused with commercially available foods that do not contain kratom and are typically marketed to children. (7) Any other packaging used that is attractive to children considering all relevant facts and circumstances.
(b) “Kratom leaf” means the leaf of the kratom plant, also known as mitragyna speciosa, any form.
(c) “Kratom leaf extract” means the material obtained by extraction of kratom leaves by any means.
(d) “Kratom product” means a product consisting of any part of a leaf of the plant Mitragyna speciosa in fresh, dehydrated, or dried form; or a kratom extract, or any product that contains any kratom alkaloid or metabolite.
(e) “Total kratom alkaloids” means the sum of mitragynine, speciociliatine, speciogynine, paynantheine, and 7-hydroxymitragynine in a kratom product. (f) “Synthesized” means an alkaloid or alkaloid derivative that has been created by chemical synthesis or biosynthetic means (including but not limited to; fermentation, recombinant techniques, yeast derived, enzymatic techniques), rather than traditional food preparation techniques such as heating or extracting. It also includes alkaloids that has been further exposed to chemicals or processes that would confer a structural change in the alkaloids contained within the extract.
§ 8.65.030 Sale, distribution, and possession of kratom restricted.
Ordinance Restricting the Sale, Distribution, and Possession of Kratom Page 4 of 5 Council Meeting July 14, 2026
(a) Except as otherwise authorized by law, an individual, business, or other entity shall not sell, attempt to sell, offer, provide, or distribute a kratom product to a person under 21 years of age.
(b) Except as otherwise authorized by law, an individual, business, or other entity shall not sell, attempt to sell, offer, provide, or distribute any product with a level of 7- hydroxymitragynine that is greater than 2 percent of the total alkaloids in the product. (c) Except as otherwise authorized by law, an individual, business, or other entity shall not sell, attempt to sell, offer, provide, or distribute a kratom product that is attractive to children.
(d) Any individual, business, or other entity that sells, attempts to sell, offers, provides, or distributes a kratom product shall conduct age-verification to ensure compliance with subdivision (a).
(e) No person or entity shall offer for sale any kratom product that contains or is adulterated with synthesized or semi-synthesized kratom alkaloids or kratom constituents. § 8.65.040 Violations and Penalties.
It is unlawful and a public nuisance for any person or entity to violate any provision of the Chapter.
Section 2. Severability.
If any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this article is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed severable and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions hereof.
The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this article irrespective of the invalidity of any particular portion thereof and intends that the invalid portions should be severed, and the balance of the article be enforced.” Section 3. This ordinance shall become effective 30 days after its adoption.
Ordinance Restricting the Sale, Distribution, and Possession of Kratom Page 5 of 5 Council Meeting July 14, 2026
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Fountain Valley at a regular meeting thereof held on July 14, 2026.
ATTEST: ______________________ _______________________
Jim Cunneen City Clerk
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: _______________________ City Attorney
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST
To: Honorable Mayor and Agenda Date: July 14, 2026
Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. in the Amount Not-to-Exceed $72,000 Annually for Grant Writing Consultant Services for a Period of Two (2) Years with the Option of Four One-year Extensions Three-Year Strategic Goals
Cultivate a welcoming culture and safe environment that makes our community “A Nice Place to Live.”
Ensure long-term fiscal stability by evaluating processes, and attract and retain revenue producing businesses/opportunities.
Attract and retain quality staff through best practices and trends.
Maintain, build, plan for, and modernize infrastructure to support the growth and future needs of the City.
Not applicable.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
City staff remains committed to identifying and securing alternative revenue streams to offset escalating operational costs. Through its previous engagement with Townsend Public Affairs, the City secured $2.2 million in awarded funding, with $3.5 million currently pending in submitted applications. To build on this effort, the City issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Grant Writing Consultant Services seeking qualified consultants to provide comprehensive grant writing, preparation, and management services on an on-call, as needed, and monthly retainer basis. It is the City's intention to apply for grants to provide supplementary funding for projects and services, thereby reducing the need to use additional budgetary resources. The goal is to identify and procure grants that can assist with one-time projects and/or help launch new programs to serve the community. The selected consultant will provide end-to-end grant writing services, including funding research, coordination with City departments, grant strategy development, application preparation and submission, and post-award compliance and reporting - all under the direction of City staff.
Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
July 14, 2026
DISCUSSION
Over the past three (3) years, the City has worked with Townsend Public Affairs (TPA) to secure essential funding through federal, state, and private grant programs. The partnership highlights a focused, strategic approach to identifying funding avenues and submitting competitive applications while delivering on key City goals. The following is an overview of the previously awarded funding, as well as applications submitted and pending.
Awarding Agency & Program Name Project Name Award
Amount
FY26 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD):
Economic Development Initiative (EDI)
Representative Derek Tran
Fire Station 1 Construction $2,000,000
Walmart Foundation
Walmart Spark Good Grant Program
Shop with a Cop $500
California Transportation Commission (CTC)
Active Transportation Program
Fountain Valley Pedestrian Parkway
Improvement within School Zones
Project
$226,000
Total Funding Amount Secured $2,226,500
Awarding Agency & Program Name Project Name Status Request Amount
FY27 Transportation, Housing, and Urban
Development (THUD): Economic Development
Initiative (EDI)
Representative Derek Tran
Fire Station 1 Engine
and Apparatus
Acquisition
Selected by Rep. Tran;
Included in subcommittee
markup; Awaiting passage of
FY27 appropriations package
$2,250,000
FY27 Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS)
Representative Derek Tran
Drones as First
Responders Program
Selected by Rep. Tran;
Included in subcommittee
markup; Awaiting passage of
FY27 appropriations package
$371,000
FY27 Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS)
Representative Derek Tran
Advanced In-Car
Camera System
Selected by Rep. Tran;
Included in subcommittee
markup; Awaiting passage of
FY27 appropriations package
$323,000
California Governor’s Office of Emergency
Services (CalOES)
State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
Cybersecurity
Upgrades Project
Application submitted;
Pending agency review
$250,000
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Assistance for Firefighters Grant Program
P25 All-Band Portable
Radio Acquisition
Application submitted;
Pending agency review
$388,028
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Fire Prevention & Safety Grant Program
Smoke Alarms and
Fire Safety House
Procurement
Application submitted;
Pending agency review
$8,208
Total Funding Amount Pending $3,590,236
Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
July 14, 2026
The City’s agreement with TPA expired on June 30, 2026. In anticipation of this expiration and to continue engagement with a grant-writing consultant for comprehensive grant writing, preparation, and management services, a request-for-proposal process was initiated. On March 30, 2026, the City issued a request for proposals for Grant Writing Consultant Services. The City received sixteen (16) proposals prior to the submittal deadline. A three-person evaluation team, comprised of City staff (Fire Chief, Management Analyst in the City Manager’s Office, and Finance), independently reviewed and scored the proposals. Five (5) firms were selected for interviews. Based on a comprehensive assessment of their proposal and interview, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc., scored highest overall and was determined to best meet the City’s grantwriting needs. Staff recommends Council approve the City Manager to execute an agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for Grant Writing Consultant Services.
The initial contract period is two years, with the option of four (4) one-year extensions. The contract is structured with an all-inclusive retainer fee of $6,000 per month, totaling a not-toexceed amount of $72,000 annually for contract years 1 and 2. This includes all reasonable business and travel expenses.
In addition to engaging with TPA, the City will enter into a smaller, on-call, as-needed contract for grant-writing consulting services with Evan Brooks Associates, Inc. (EBA) to provide additional specialized grant-writing services. Grant programs vary in evaluation criteria, documentation, and reviewer expectations. EBA is a firm with ATP, HSIP, SS4A, and FEMA experience and can provide highly technical and engineering-heavy support, such as costbenefit analyses and exhibit development. As needed, EBA will provide cost quotes with not-toexceed amounts for any and all billable work requested by the City. Billing will be determined by the scope of work requested by the City and performed by EBA staff. EBA will not begin work until the City provides explicit written notice to proceed. Final costs will reflect the specific projects requested by the City and the actual work completed by EBA. Utilizing two (2) firms allows the City to strategically match each grant opportunity with the consultant best suited to the specific funding program while maintaining flexibility and cost effectiveness.
PROCUREMENT
In accordance with the City’s Purchasing Policies, staff issued a Request for Proposal (RFP
26.008) on March 30, 2026. The RFP was publicly advertised on PlanetBids via an invitation through the City’s website. The RFP closed on April 27, 2026. Forty-six (46) firms showed interest and downloaded the RFP. Proposals were received from sixteen (16) firms and fifteen (15) were considered responsive, listed below:
Ad Astra Public Affairs
Avant Garde, Inc.
Blais & Associates LLC
California Consulting, Inc.
DeHart Consulting Group, LLC
Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
July 14, 2026
Engineering Solutions Services, Inc.
Evan Brooks Associates
Innovative Funding Partners, LLC
Lexipol, LLC
Outsource Execs LLC
Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc.
The CrisCom Company
The Ferguson Group
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Villa Civil
An evaluation committee comprised of three (3) City staff members independently reviewed and scored the proposals. Proposals were evaluated against the established RFP criteria, including scope of work approach and schedule, qualifications and experience, and past performance references. Following the technical evaluation, the proposed costs of providing consultant services from each firm were reviewed. Based on initial evaluations, five (5) firms were selected for interviews.
Based on a comprehensive two-step, ten-point evaluation of their proposal and interview, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. received the highest overall score. The firm demonstrated the necessary experience, resources, and capacity to effectively meet the City’s grant writing needs.
FISCAL REVIEW
The current adopted budget for FY 2026-27 contains sufficient appropriations for this agreement.
Costs will be charged to the Administrative Services Program, Professional Services account (100.10.10104.53003).
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
The agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the meeting at which the City Council considers the item).
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REVIEW
Not applicable.
Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
July 14, 2026
ATTORNEY REVIEW
The Attorney for the City has reviewed and approved the contract.
ALTERNATIVES Alternative No. 1: Accept Proposal and Approve Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. in the Amount Not-to-Exceed $72,000 Annually for Grant Writing Consultant Services for a Period of Two (2) Years with the Option of Four (4) One-year Extensions.
Alternative No. 2: Do not accept the proposal and provide directions to staff.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff is requesting City Council approval of Alternative No. 1 to accept the proposal and approve the Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc., in the Amount Not-toExceed $72,000 Annually for Grant Writing Consultant Services for a Period of Two Years, with the Option of Four One-year Extensions.
Prepared by: Jenny Chau, Management Analyst
Reviewed by: Meghan Wishner, Management Analyst
Fiscal Review by: Ryan Smith, Finance Director
Attorney review by: Colin Burns, Attorney for the City
Approved by: Maggie Le, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
2. Request for Proposals for Grant Writing Consulting Services
3. Townsend Public Affairs Proposal and Fee Schedule
Rev 10/25
AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES
CON
Grant Writing Consultant Services
This AGREEMENT is made and effective as of the EFFECTIVE DATE, by and between the City of Fountain Valley, a municipal corporation ("CITY") and Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. ("CONSULTANT"). In consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:
1. TERM
This AGREEMENT shall commence on July 1, 2026 and
remain and continue in effect no event later than June 30, 2028 as determined by the CITY in its sole discretion, unless sooner terminated or extended pursuant to the provisions of this AGREEMENT. The CITY shall have the option, in its sole discretion, to extend this AGREEMENT for up to four (4) additional one (1) year terms, EXTENSION TERM shall be exercised by the CITY in writing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, some duties and obligations shall survive the termination, lapse, or completion of this AGREEMENT.
2. SERVICES
CONSULTANT shall perform the tasks described and set forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein as though set forth in full. CONSULTANT shall complete the tasks according to the schedule of performance which is also set forth in Exhibit A.
3. NOTICE TO PROCEED
CONSULTANT shall not perform any work or be entitled to any compensation under this AGREEMENT until a written Notice to Proceed is issued by CITY. The Notice to Proceed shall not issue unless and until CONSULTANT submits proof, satisfactory to CITY, of its procurement of appropriate insurance required by this AGREEMENT. The failure of CONSULTANT to submit proof of appropriate insurance within 10 days of the EFFECTIVE DATE is a material breach and shall constitute cause for immediate termination of this AGREEMENT by CITY.
4. PERFORMANCE
CONSULTANT shall at all times faithfully, competently, and to the best of their ability, experience, and talent perform all tasks described herein. CONSULTANT shall employ, at a minimum, generally accepted standards and practices utilized by persons engaged in providing similar services as are required of CONSULTANT hereunder in meeting its obligations under this AGREEMENT.
5. CITY MANAGEMENT
Rev 10/25
City Manager or designee shall represent CITY in all matters pertaining to the administration of this AGREEMENT, including review and approval of all products submitted by CONSULTANT, but not including the authority to enlarge the tasks to be performed or change the compensation due to CONSULTANT. The City Manager shall documents that
enlarge the tasks to be performed or change CONSULTANT's compensation, subject to Section 6 hereof.
6. PAYMENT
(a) CITY agrees to pay CONSULTANT in accordance with the payment rates, terms, and schedule of payment set forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in full. This amount shall not exceed One Hundred Forty-Four Thousand Dollars ($144,000.00 ) SUM
provided in this AGREEMENT.
(b) CONSULTANT shall not be compensated for any services rendered in connection with its performance of this AGREEMENT that are in addition to those set forth herein, unless such additional services are authorized in advance and in writing by the City Manager. This written authorization requirement cannot be waived.
CONSULTANT shall be compensated for any additional services in the amounts and in the manner as agreed to by the City Manager and CONSULTANT at the time is subject to Fountain Valley Municipal Code section 2.36.110. Approval of additional authority as specified in Fountain
Valley Municipal Code section 2.36.110 must be obtained from the City Council. (c) CONSULTANT shall submit reasonably detailed invoices monthly for actual services performed and, as applicable, equipment and materials acquired.
Invoices shall be submitted on or about the first business day of each month, for services provided in the previous month. Payment shall be made within thirty (30) days of receipt of each invoice as to all non-disputed fees. If the CITY disputes ant of receipt of an invoice of any disputed fess set forth on the invoice.
7. PUBLIC WORK
Notice is provided pursuant to Labor Code Section 1781 that all or a portion of in Chapter 1, Part 7, and Division 2 of the Labor Code, to which Section 1771 applies.
If all or a portion of the work contemplated under this AGREEMENT constitutes then CONSULTANT shall pay prevailing wages, unless exempt, on those portions of the work which require payment of prevailing wages under the prevailing wage laws (Labor Code, §§ 1720 et seq.), and shall comply with the following:
Rev 10/25
(a) Prevailing Wage Rates. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1773.2, copies of the prevailing rate of per diem wages can be found at
http://www.dir.ca.gov/OPRL/PWD/index.htm and are on file at City Hall, which shall be made available to any interested party upon request. CONSULTANT shall post a copy of the determination of the director of the prevailing rate of per diem wages at each job site. Said per diem wages are deemed to include employer payments for health and welfare, pension, vacation and travel time, and subsistence pay, all in accordance with Section 1773.1 of the Labor Code.
(b) Payroll Records. The provisions of Section 1776 of the Labor Code regarding the preparation, maintenance, and filing of payroll records are applicable to this AGREEMENT. CONSULTANT and each subconsultant shall keep accurate payroll records showing the name, address, social security number, work classification, straight time, and overtime hours worked each day and week, and the actual per diem wages paid to each journeyman, apprentice, worker, or other employee employed by them in connection with the public work. Certified payroll records shall be on forms provided by the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement or contain the same SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO CITY ON A WEEKLY BASIS. CONSULTANT SHALL
BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SUBMITTAL OF PAYROLL
RECORDS. Additionally, CONSULTANT or subconsultant has ten (10) days in which to comply subsequent to receipt of a written notice requesting the records enumerated in Section 1776, subdivision (a), of the Labor Code. In the event that CONSULTANT or subconsultant fails to comply within the ten (10) day period, they shall, as a penalty to CITY, forfeit One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) for each calendar day, or portion thereof, for each worker, until strict compliance is effectuated. CITY may deduct this penalty from any monies due or that may become due CONSULTANT under this AGREEMENT.
(c) Penalty. CONSULTANT and any subconsultant under CONSULTANT shall, as a penalty to CITY, forfeit not more than Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) for each calendar day, or portion thereof, for each worker paid (either by CONSULTANT or any subconsultant under CONSULTANT) less than the prevailing rate set forth herein on the work provided for in this AGREEMENT. CITY may deduct the penalty from any monies due or that may become due CONSULTANT under this AGREEMENT. The difference between the prevailing wage rates and the amount paid to each worker for each calendar day, or portion thereof, for which each worker was paid less than the prevailing wage rate shall also be paid to each worker by CONSULTANT or subconsultant, in accordance with Section 1775 of the Labor Code of the State of California.
(d) Apprentices. If applicable, the provisions of Labor Code Section 1777.5 requiring the use of apprentices in certain ratios to journeymen are hereby imposed upon CONSULTANT.
(e) . In the performance of this AGREEMENT, not more than require more
Rev 10/25
than eight (8) hours of labor in a day from any person employed by them hereunder except as provided in Labor Code Section 1815. CONSULTANT shall conform to Article 3, Chapter 1, Part 7 (Sections 1810 et seq.), of the Labor Code of the State of California, and it is agreed that CONSULTANT shall forfeit to CITY as a penalty the sum of Twenty-Five Dollars ($25.00) for each worker employed in the execution of this AGREEMENT by CONSULTANT or any subconsultant for each calendar day during which any worker is required or permitted to labor more than eight (8) hours in any one (1) calendar day and forty (40) hours in any one (1) week in violation of said article. CITY may deduct this penalty from any monies due or that may become due pursuant to this AGREEMENT.
8. SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT WITHOUT CAUSE (a) CITY may at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, suspend or terminate this AGREEMENT, or any portion hereof, by serving upon CONSULTANT, at least thirty (30) days prior, written notice. CITY shall not be obligated to explain its reasons for termination. Upon receipt of said notice, CONSULTANT shall immediately cease all work under this AGREEMENT, unless the notice provides otherwise.
If CITY suspends or terminates a portion of this AGREEMENT such suspension or termination shall not make void or invalidate the remainder of this AGREEMENT. (b) In the event this AGREEMENT is suspended or terminated pursuant to this section, CITY shall pay to CONSULTANT the actual value of the work performed up to the time of suspension or termination, provided that the work performed is of value to CITY and consistent with the AGREEMENT. Upon suspension or termination of the AGREEMENT pursuant to this section, CONSULTANT will, as a precondition to being compensated, submit an invoice to CITY detailing work performed up to the time of suspension or termination.
9. DEFAULT OF CONSULTANT
(a) CONSULTANT's failure to comply with the provisions of this AGREEMENT shall constitute a material default. In the event that CONSULTANT is in default for cause under the terms of this AGREEMENT, CITY shall have no obligation or duty to continue compensating CONSULTANT for any work performed after the date of default and can terminate this AGREEMENT immediately by written notice to CONSULTANT. If such failure by the CONSULTANT to make progress in the performance of work hereunder arises out of causes beyond CONSULTANT's control, and without fault or negligence of CONSULTANT, it shall not be considered a default. (b) As an alternative to the procedure for immediate termination for default set forth in subparagraph (a), if CITY determines that CONSULTANT is in default in the performance of any of the terms or conditions of this AGREEMENT, CITY may in its discretion cause to be served upon CONSULTANT a written notice of the default and demand to cure. CONSULTANT shall have ten (10) calendar days after service upon it of said notice to cure the default by rendering a satisfactory performance. In the event that CONSULTANT fails to cure its default within such period of time, CITY shall have the right, notwithstanding any other provision of this AGREEMENT, to terminate this AGREEMENT without further notice and without prejudice to any other Rev 10/25
remedy to which it may be entitled at law, in equity, or under this AGREEMENT.
10. OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS
(a) CONSULTANT shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to the plans, specifications, estimates, drawings, design calculations, letters, reports, testing results, and other such information including as-built records as required by CITY that relate to the performance of services under this AGREEMENT.
CONSULTANT shall maintain adequate records of services provided in sufficient detail to permit an evaluation of services. All such records shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and shall be clearly identified and readily accessible. CONSULTANT shall provide free access to the representatives of CITY or its designees at reasonable times to such books and records; shall give CITY the right to examine and audit said books and records; shall permit CITY to make copies and transcripts therefrom as necessary; and shall allow inspection of all work, data, documents, proceedings, and activities related to this AGREEMENT. Such records, together with supporting documents, shall be maintained for a period of three (3) years after receipt of final payment. (b) Upon completion of, or in the event of termination, or suspension of this computer files, and other documents prepared in the course of providing the services to be performed pursuant to this AGREEMENT shall become the sole property of CITY and may be used, reused, or otherwise disposed of by CITY without the permission of CONSULTANT. With respect to computer files, CONSULTANT shall make available to CITY, upon reasonable written request by CITY, the necessary computer software and hardware for purposes of accessing, compiling, transferring, and printing computer files.
11. INDEMNIFICATION
(a) Indemnification for Professional Liability. When the law establishes a permitted by law, CONSULTANT shall indemnify, protect, defend, and hold harmless CITY and any and all of its officials, officers, employees, and agents and against any and all losses, liabilities, damages, costs, and expenses, and costs to the extent the same are caused in whole or in part by any negligent or wrongful act, error, or omission of CONSULTANT, its officers, agents, employees, or subconsultants (or any entity or individual that CONSULTANT shall bear the legal liability thereof) in the performance of professional services under this AGREEMENT. With respect to the design of public improvements, CONSULTANT shall not be liable for any injuries or property damage resulting from the reuse of the design at a location other than that specified in this AGREEMENT without the written consent of CONSULTANT.
For all Consultant performances under this Agreement that are within the provision of design services as defined under California Civil Code Section 2782.8, the following shall apply: Notwithstanding any clause or provision in this Agreement or any other Rev 10/25
applicable Agreement to the contrary all specifically relating to design services and related performances to these design services, as specified, in California Civil Code Section 2782.8, Consultant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless (but not defend) the City, its officers, directors and employees from and against damages and costs that City is legally obligated to pay, to the extent caused by the negligent act, error or omission of the Consultant or anyone for whom the Consultant is legally responsible, subject to any limitations of liability contained in this Agreement. Consultant shall have liability for reasonable and necessary defense costs incurred by persons indemnified applicable law on account of negligence.
For all Consultant performances under this Agreement that are not for design services as defined under California Civil Code Section 2782.8 the following shall apply:
Consultant agrees to defend, indemnify, protect and hold harmless City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, attorneys, and volunteers from and against any and all claims, demands, losses, attorney fees, defense costs or expenses, or liability of any kind or nature which City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, attorneys and volunteers may sustain or incur or which may be imposed upon them for injury to or death of persons, or damage to property arising out of Consultant's negligent or wrongful acts or omissions in performing or failing to perform under the terms of this Agreement, excepting only liability arising out of the negligence or wrongful conduct of City, its officers, officials, consultants, employees, agents, attorneys and volunteers. (b) Indemnification for Other Than Professional Liability. Other than in the performance of professional services and to the full extent permitted by law, CONSULTANT shall indemnify, defend, protect and hold harmless CITY, and any and all of its employees, officials, officers, agents, and volunteers from and against any liability (including liability for claims, suits, actions, arbitration proceedings, administrative proceedings, regulatory proceedings, losses, expenses, or costs of any kind, whether actual, alleged, or threatened, including attorneys fees and costs, court costs, interest, defense costs, and expert witness fees), where the same arise out of, are a consequence of, or are in any way attributable to, in whole or in part, the performance of this AGREEMENT by CONSULTANT or by any individual or entity for which CONSULTANT is legally liable, including but not limited to officers, agents, employees, or subconsultants of CONSULTANT.
(c) General Indemnification Provisions. CONSULTANT agrees to obtain executed indemnity agreements with provisions identical to those set forth here in this section from each and every subconsultant or any other person or entity involved by, for, with or on behalf of CONSULTANT in the performance of this AGREEMENT.
In the event CONSULTANT fails to obtain such indemnity obligations from others as required here, CONSULTANT agrees to be fully responsible according to the terms of this section.
Failure of CITY to monitor compliance with these requirements imposes no additional obligations on CITY and will in no way act as a waiver of any rights hereunder. This obligation to indemnify and defend CITY as set forth here is binding on the successors, assigns, or heirs of CONSULTANT and shall survive the termination of this AGREEMENT or this section.
Nothing in this indemnity shall be construed as authorizing any award of fees in any action on or to enforce the terms of this Indemnity or AGREEMENT. This indemnity shall Rev 10/25
apply to all claims and liability regardless of whether any insurance policies are applicable. (d) Indemnity Provisions for Contracts Related to Construction. This paragraph applies only when this AGREEMENT is related to construction. Without affecting the rights of CITY under any provision of this AGREEMENT, CONSULTANT shall not be required to indemnify and hold harmless CITY for liability attributable to the active negligence of CITY, provided such active negligence is determined by agreement between the parties or by the findings of a court of competent jurisdiction. In instances where CITY is shown to have been actively negligent and where active negligence accounts for only a percentage of the liability involved, the obligation of CONSULTANT will be for that entire portion or percentage of liability not attributable to the active negligence of CITY.
This section shall survive the lapse, termination, or completion of this AGREEMENT.
12. INSURANCE
Prior to performing any work or receiving any compensation under this AGREEMENT, CONSULTANT shall obtain, and thereafter maintain for the duration of this AGREEMENT, insurance coverage as specified in Exhibit B, attached hereto and incorporated herein as though set forth in full. This duty or obligation shall survive the lapse, termination, or completion of this AGREEMENT.
13. WARRANTY FOR GOODS
(a) If this AGREEMENT includes the purchase of equipment, supplies, or chattel (hereafter CONSULTANT shall provide the following warranty of said GOODS, or obtain a warranty from the manufacturer and/or retailer with provisions equal to or exceeding those specified in this Section. In the event the specified in this Section, CONSUTLANT agrees to provide said warranty protections.
The warranty described hereunder extends to the original purchaser of the GOODS warranted under the warranty, and to each transferee owner of the GOODS. The term of this warranty begins on the date the GOODS are delivered to CITY, and continues therefrom. CONSULTANT warrants that:
(1) The GOODS will function properly under normal use, will be of good workmanship, free from defect, of merchantable quality, and fit for intended use;
(2) The GOODS will fully comply with any specifications provided by CITY and any samples or documentation provided by CONSULTANT; (3) The GOODS will be free of any security interests, liens, or encumbrances and CONSULTANT has title to the GOODS;
(4) The GOODS will not violate any intellectual property rights of any third party;
(5) The GOODS will be delivered free of the rightful claim of a third person Rev 10/25
by way of infringement; and
(6) The GOODS are merchantable in accordance with Commercial Code Section 2314.
(b) The warranty listed above is in addition to any other warranties made by CONSULTANT, the manufacturer, retailer, or imposed by law. All warranties will assigns. If any GOODS do not meet the warranty, CITY may, at and without additional cost to CITY:
(1) Require CONSULTANT to repair or replace the GOODS until the GOODS meet the warranty. If CONSULTANT cannot replace the GOODS and repair either is not commercially practicable or cannot be made within three (3) days, CONSULTANT will refund the purchase price;
(2) Return any of the GOODS to CONSULTANT at
expense for a full refund;
(3) Correct the nonconformance and charge CONSULTANT for the costs to make the correction; or
(4) Engage a third party to provide substitute GOODS and charge CONSULTANT for the costs of obtaining the substitute GOODS from the third party.
14. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
(a) CONSULTANT is and shall at all times remain as to the CITY a wholly independent contractor having only the contractual duties and obligations agreed upon as memorialized in this AGREEMENT. The personnel performing the services under this AGREEMENT on behalf of CONSULTANT shall at all times be under CONSULTANT's exclusive direction and control. Neither CITY nor any of its officers, officials, employees, agents, or volunteers shall have control over the conduct of CONSULTANT or any of CONSULTANT's officers, employees, or agents, except as set forth in this AGREEMENT. CONSULTANT shall not at any time or in any manner represent that it or any of its officers, employees, or agents are in any manner officers, employees, or agents of the CITY. CONSULTANT shall not incur or have the power to incur any debt, obligation, or liability whatsoever against CITY, or bind CITY in any manner, whether in law or equity.
(b) No employee benefits shall be available to CONSULTANT in connection with the performance of this AGREEMENT. Except for the fees paid to CONSULTANT as provided in this AGREEMENT, CITY shall not pay, nor be deemed to have paid or delivered, salaries, wages, or other compensation to CONSULTANT for performing services hereunder for CITY. CITY shall not be liable for compensation or indemnification to CONSULTANT for injury or sickness arising out of performing services hereunder. In addition to the indemnification provisions of Section 11, Rev 10/25
CONSULTANT shall indemnify, defend, and hold CITY harmless from claims or liability pension, health benefits, holiday, vacations, etc.
15. LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES
CONSULTANT shall keep itself informed of State and Federal laws and regulations which in any manner affect i t s r e q u i r e m e n t s u n d e r t h i s A g r e e m e n t , a n d those employed by it or in any way affect the performance of its service, duties, and obligations pursuant to this AGREEMENT. CONSULTANT shall at all times observe and comply with all such laws and regulations. CITY, and its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers shall not be liable at law or in equity occasioned by failure of CONSULTANT to comply with this Section. This section shall survive, without limitation, the termination, lapse or completion of this Agreement.
16. POLITICAL REFORM ACT
If the Political Reform Act requires CONSULTANT to file a Form 700, then CONSULTANT must file a Form 700 with full disclosure within 30 days of assuming office and thereafter must file an annual statement for each calendar year of this AGREEMENT.
17. UNDUE INFLUENCE
CONSULTANT declares and warrants that no undue influence or pressure is used against or in concert with any officer or employee of CITY in connection with the award, terms, or implementation of this AGREEMENT, including any method of coercion, confidential financial arrangement, or financial inducement. No officer or employee of the CITY will receive compensation, directly or indirectly, from CONSULTANT, or from any officer, employee, or agent of CONSULTANT, in connection with the award of this AGREEMENT or any work to be conducted as a result of this AGREEMENT. Violation of this section shall be a material breach of this AGREEMENT entitling CITY to any and all remedies at law or in equity.
18. NO BENEFIT TO ARISE TO LOCAL EMPLOYEES
No member, officer, or employee of CITY, or their designees or agents, and no public official who exercises authority over or responsibilities with respect to the project during their tenure or for one year thereafter, shall have any interest, direct or indirect, in any agreement or sub-agreement, or the proceeds thereof, for work to be performed in connection with this AGREEMENT.
19. RELEASE OF INFORMATION / CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
(a) All information gained by CONSULTANT in performance of this AGREEMENT shall be considered confidential and shall not be released by CONSULTANT without subconsultants, shall not without written authorization from the City Manager or unless Rev 10/25
requested by the Attorney for the City, voluntarily provide declarations, letters of support, testimony at depositions, response to interrogatories, or other information concerning the work performed under this AGREEMENT or relating to any project or property located within the CITY. Response to a subpoena or court order shall not order or subpoena.
(b) CONSULTANT shall promptly notify CITY should CONSULTANT, its officers, employees, agents, or subconsultants be served with any summons, complaint, subpoena, notice of deposition, request for documents, interrogatories, requests for admissions, or other discovery request, court order, or subpoena from any person or party regarding this AGREEMENT and the work performed thereunder or with respect to any project or property located within the CITY. CITY retains the right, but has no obligation, to represent CONSULTANT and/or be present at any deposition, hearing, or similar proceeding. CONSULTANT agrees to cooperate fully with CITY and to provide the opportunity to review any response to discovery requests provided by CONSULTANT. However, CITY's right to review any such response does not imply or mean the right by CITY to control, direct, or rewrite said response.
20. SECURITY OF INFORMATION
CONSULTANT shall identify reasonably foreseeable internal and external risks to the privacy and security of personal information acquired during performance of this AGREEMENT that could result in the unauthorized disclosure, misuse, alteration, destruction, or other compromise of the information. CONSULTANT shall regularly assess the sufficiency of any safeguards and information security awareness training in place to control reasonably foreseeable internal and external risks, and evaluate and adjust those safeguards in light of the assessment.
21. NOTICES
Any notices which either party may desire to give to the other party under this AGREEMENT must be in writing and may be given either by (i) personal service, (ii) delivery by a reputable document delivery service, such as but not limited to, Federal Express, which provides a receipt showing date and time of delivery, or (iii) mailing in the United States Mail, certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the address of the party as set forth below or at any other address as that party may later designate by notice:
CITY CONSULTANT
City of Fountain Valley Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
10200 Slater Avenue 1401 Dove Street, Suite 430
Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Newport Beach, CA 92660
Attn: City Clerk Attn: Christopher Townsend
22. ASSIGNMENT
Rev 10/25
CONSULTANT shall not assign the performance of this AGREEMENT, nor any part thereof, nor any monies due hereunder, without the prior written consent of CITY, which the CITY may grant or withhold in its sole and absolute discretion, with no obligation to disclose the basis for its decision to any person, firm, entity, or Party. [
immediately terminate this AGREEMENT, within three (3) days of the close of said compensation shall be payment for actual services performed up to, and including, the date of termination or as may be otherwise agreed to in writing between the City Council and CONSULTANT.
[Check if Applicable] Because of the personal nature of the services to be rendered pursuant to this AGREEMENT, only Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. shall perform the services described in this AGREEMENT. PRINCIPAL may use assistants, under their direct supervision, to perform some of the services under this AGREEMENT. CONSULTANT shall provide CITY fourteen (14) day's notice prior to the departure of PRINCIPLE from CONSULTANT's employ. Should they leave CONSULTANT's employ, CITY shall have the option to immediately terminate this AGREEMENT, within three (3) days of the close of said notice period.
Upon termination of this AGREEMENT, CONSULTANT's sole compensation shall be payment for actual services performed up to, and including, the date of termination or as may be otherwise agreed to in writing between CITY and CONSULTANT.
23. LICENSES
At all times during the term of this AGREEMENT and prior to commencement of any work under this AGREEMENT, CONSULTANT shall have in full force and effect, all licenses required of it by law for the performance of the services described in this AGREEMENT including, but not limited to, a Fountain Valley business license.
24. GOVERNING LAW
CITY and CONSULTANT understand and agree that the laws of the State of California, or, as necessary, the laws of the United States Federal government, shall govern the rights, obligations, duties, and liabilities of the parties to this AGREEMENT and also govern the interpretation of this AGREEMENT. Any litigation concerning this AGREEMENT shall take place in Orange County Superior Court or Central District of California Federal District Court.
25. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This AGREEMENT contains the entire understanding between the parties relating to the obligations of the parties described in this AGREEMENT. All prior or contemporaneous agreements, understandings, representations, and statements, oral or written, direct or implied, are merged into this AGREEMENT and shall be of no further Rev 10/25
force or effect. Each party is entering into this AGREEMENT based solely upon the representations set forth herein and upon each party's own independent investigation of any and all facts such party deems material. Each Party has had the opportunity to have this Agreement reviewed by independent legal counsel of its own selection and is not relying on any representations, opinions, or advice of the other Party.
26. CONTENTS OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL AND PROPOSAL
CONSULTANT is bound by the contents of Request for Proposals and the contents of the Proposal submitted by CONSULTANT. In the event of conflict, this AGREEMENT shall take precedence over Request for Proposals and rights of CITY, or release of rights or remedies held by CITY, contained in Proposal shall be of any force or effect.
27. INTERPRETATION
In the event of conflict or inconsistency between this AGREEMENT and any other document, including any proposal or Exhibit hereto, this AGREEMENT shall control unless a contrary intent is clearly stated. This AGREEMENT shall be interpreted as though drafted by all parties hereto.
28. MODIFICATION
No modification to this AGREEMENT shall be effective unless it is in writing and signed by authorized representatives of the parties hereto. The written modification requirement cannot be waived.
29. ATTORNEY FEES
In any action or proceeding brought by either party against the other party arising out of or in any way connected to this AGREEMENT, or where any provision hereof is validly asserted as a defense, the parties shall bear when CITY receives a
complaint, petition, or other pleading from a third party requiring CITY to defend itself.
30. AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE THIS AGREEMENT
The person or persons executing this AGREEMENT on behalf of CONSULTANT warrants and represents that they have the authority to execute this AGREEMENT on behalf of CONSULTANT and have the authority to bind CONSULTANT to the performance of its obligations hereunder. CONSULTANT agrees that the person executing this AGREEMENT is an authorized agent of the CONSULTANT with the power to bind CONSULTANT to this AGREEMENT. ///
///
Rev 10/25
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed the day and year first above written.
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY CONSULTANT
Jim Cunneen, Mayor Signature
Christopher Townsend
ATTEST: Typed Name
President
Title
Rick Miller, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
Corporate seal (or attach Notary
HARPER & BURNS LLP acknowledgment)
Attorneys for the City
Approved as to Content: ________________________________ Maggie Le, City Manager Rev 10/25
Exhibit
Scope of Services
And Payment Terms
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 0 City of Fountain Valley
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services
RFP No. 26-008
April 27, 2026
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 21
COST / FEE
OPTION I: ALL-INCLUSIVE RETAINER:
TPA structures our agreements to provide maximum flexibility and minimize risk for our clients.
All contracts include a no-fault, 30-day termination clause, allowing either party to terminate the agreement for any reason with 30 days written notice. This approach ensures that agencies retain full control and can move forward with confidence, knowing they are not locked into a long-term commitment. Our goal is to earn your continued partnership through performance, responsiveness, and results, not contractual obligation.
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES MONTHLY FEE
Grant Writing Services
Years 1-2: $6,000*
Option Year 3: $7,000*
Option Year 4: $8,000*
Option Year 5: $8,500*
Option Year 6: $9,000*
Conduct Detailed Orientation Included
Craft Strategic Funding Plan Included
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding
Opportunities Included
Community Outreach Included
Grant Application Development and Submittal Included
Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Included
Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Included Assemble Project Background and Details Included
Coordinate Technical Project Details Included
Draft Written Proposal Included
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Included
Submit Completed Application Included
Funding Advocacy Included
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy Included
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance Included Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy Included
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications Included Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process Included
Provide Progress Reports Included
*The monthly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses.
ANNUAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT FOR CONTRACT YEARS 1 AND 2: $72,000 Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 22
COST / FEE
OPTION II: PROJECT BASED FEES:
OPTION III: HOURLY RATES OF KEY PERSONNEL:
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES PROJECT FEE
Grant Writing Services $5,000-$30,000**
Conduct Detailed Orientation Included
Grant Application Development and Submittal Included
Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Included
Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Included Assemble Project Background and Details Included
Coordinate Technical Project Details Included
Draft Written Proposal Included
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Included
Submit Completed Application Included
Funding Advocacy Included
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy Included
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance Included Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy Included
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications Included Provide Progress Reports Included
*The project fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses. *The project fee is determined by grant program requirements and length of project.
NAME & TITLE HOURLY FEE
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director $275*
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate $250*
Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate $250*
Jake Leischner, Associate $225*
Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst $200*
*The hourly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 0 City of Fountain Valley
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services
RFP No. 26-008
April 27, 2026
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page X
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................... X Transmittal Letter ............................................................................................................ 1 Company Experience ...................................................................................................... 2 Key Personnel/Past Performance ................................................................................... 9 Approach and Schedule ................................................................................................ 15 Understanding of Project Components .......................................................................... 19 Quality Control .............................................................................................................. 19 References .................................................................................................................... 20 Cost/Fee ..............................................................Submitted as a Separate Electronic File Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 1 Amanda Peñaloza, Management Analyst & Purchasing Officer, City of Fountain Valley 10200 Slater Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Dear Ms. Peñaloza,
Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services to the City of Fountain Valley (“City”). TPA is honored to serve as the City’s grant writer. Since 2024, TPA is proud to have worked in partnership with the City to secure $2,000,500 in competitive funding for critical community projects. In addition, TPA worked with the City in 2017 to secure $226,000, bringing our total successes for the City to $2,226,500.
Company Information:
Company Address: 1401 Dove Street, Suite 430, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Telephone Number: (949) 399-9050
Contact During Period of Proposal Evaluation:
Name & Title: Olivia Raymond, Sr. Business Development Associate Address: 1401 Dove Street, Suite 430, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Phone/Email: (949) 399-9050; [email protected]
Since our inception in 1998, TPA has earned the reputation as a Champion for Better Communities by providing the experience, resources, and relationships expected from a premier legislative advocacy and grant writing firm while also giving clients the unique brand of customer service they deserve: personal attention, maximum accessibility, and passion for their mission.
Over the years, TPA has been proud to secure more than $3.3 billion in competitive grants and appropriations and to provide strategic guidance that helps our clients achieve a positive return on investment. But beyond the numbers, what sets us apart is our dedication to helping communities like Fountain Valley turn bold ideas into reality, whether securing new funding, shaping grant program guidelines, or protecting vital resources that your residents rely on.
This organizational chart delineates the
roles and responsibilities of each
member of the team. Jake Leischner will
be the primary contact between TPA and
the City, City Manager, and key staff
Thank you for your interest in our firm
and your consideration of this proposal.
TPA will not utilize subcontractors for this
engagement. Please contact us if you
have any questions or need additional information.
We would be honored to continue to serve the City of Fountain Valley.
Yours truly,
Christopher Townsend (Authorized to Bind the Firm)
President
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 2
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
SUMMARY
TPA understands the City of Fountain Valley’s goal to secure external funding to support priority projects and programs while minimizing the use of local tax dollars. As a Southern California-based firm with an office in Newport Beach, TPA offers strong regional expertise and a deep understanding of the funding landscape impacting Orange County cities, allowing us to serve as a responsive extension of City staff. Over the past several years, TPA is proud to have worked in partnership with the City to secure $2,226,500 in competitive funding for critical community projects supporting public safety, active transportation, and civic engagement.
TPA is well positioned to support both the City’s monthly retainer and on-call grant needs, providing consistent service, meeting all deadlines, and responding to City requests within one to two business days in alignment with RFP expectations.
TPA's approach is focused on delivering measurable results to support key City priorities.
Looking ahead to the finalization of the Parks Master Plan, TPA is poised to assist in submitting applications to the Tennis Venue Services Program, the upcoming Statewide Park Development and Revitalization Program, and others to secure funding for projects identified in the Plan. Additionally, to support the Fountain Valley Fire Department, the ongoing construction of Fire Station 1, and the need to replace and acquire new fire apparatuses, TPA continues to monitor the pending release of FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and SCAQMD's Carl Moyer Program. FEMA's Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program is also monitored to potentially supplement funding for FVFD's new Ambulance and EMT services. TPA continues to research additional funding opportunities for other City initiatives - including the establishment of a Sister City in Japan, support for FVPD's Mobile Crisis Response Unit, upgrades to the Traffic Management System, and extended hours for the HOP ON Senior Transportation program, among others.
In line with the Scope of Work, TPA will provide end-to-end grant services, including funding research, coordination with City departments, grant strategy development, application preparation and submission, and post-award compliance and reporting. TPA will also maintain a grant pipeline and calendar, provide regular check-ins, and deliver monthly activity reports summarizing progress and outcomes.
Through this strategic and collaborative approach, TPA will continue to maximize funding opportunities and support the City’s priority projects and long-term objectives.
FIRM BACKGROUND
TPA is a state and federal grant writing and legislative advocacy firm that provides lobbying and funding services to public agencies and nonprofit organizations throughout California.
Founder/Owner/President: Christopher Townsend
Funding Success: Over $3.3 billion in state, federal, and local government grants as well as grants from nonprofit organizations and private companies Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 3
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Advocacy Success: Shepherded over 165 client-sponsored legislative items into law Longevity: 27 years (founded in 1998)
Number of Employees: 24
Number of Grant Writers and State and Federal Lobbyists: 19 Number of Offices: Five
o TPA Southern California Office, Newport Beach (Located less than 20 minutes from City Hall)
o TPA State Capitol Office, Sacramento
o TPA Federal Office, Washington, DC
o TPA Northern California Office, Oakland
o TPA Central California Office, Fresno
Types of Clients:
o City Governments
o County Governments
o Water and Sanitation Districts
o Transportation Districts
o K–12 School Districts
o Community College Districts
o Parks and Recreation Districts
o Fire Protection Districts
o Museums, Science Centers, and Cultural Facilities
Areas of Specialization:
o Local Governance (Cities, Counties, Special Districts) o Emergency Management and Hazard Mitigation
o Transportation Policy and Infrastructure
o Water and Sanitation Policy and Infrastructure
o Education Policy and Infrastructure
o Housing and Economic Development
o Parks and Community Facilities (Recreational, Cultural, Historical) o Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources
o Public Safety
o Budget and Finance
Ranking by Revenue Reported to the California Secretary of State:
o 6th of 491 Firms Registered for the 2025–26 Legislative Session TPA is ranked as a top 100 federal lobbying firm and represents more California public agencies in Washington, DC than any other advocacy firm in the nation.
Over 80% of clients receive more than $1 million in grant awards in their first full year of working with TPA
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 4
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
TPA’S SUCCESSES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY
TPA has a proven track record of delivering targeted funding results for the City of Fountain Valley, securing resources across federal, state, and private grant programs to support critical infrastructure and community initiatives. Our work reflects a strategic approach to identifying funding opportunities and developing competitive applications aligned with the City’s priorities. The following chart highlights a selection of successful grants secured on behalf of the City, totaling more than $2.2 million in funding.
PROJECT & PROGRAM AMOUNT YEAR
City of Fountain Valley: FY26 Federal Budget Earmark: Fire Station 1 $2,000,000 2026
City of Fountain Valley: Walmart Spark Good Grant: Shop with a Cop $500 2024
City of Fountain Valley: Active Transportation Program Grant $226,000 2017 Total Secured for the City of Fountain Valley: $2,226,500 PENDING FY 2027 FEDERAL EARMARKS FOR THE CITY
TPA drafted, submitted, completed supplemental information requests, and engaged in continued advocacy for the City to request five unique projects through the FY27 Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending process. The City of Fountain Valley now has three funding requests, totaling $5,694,000, pending subcommittee markup, scheduled for April 30 (CJS) and May 21 (THUD).
PROJECT AMOUNT ACCOUNT
Fire Station 1 Engine and Apparatus Acquisition $5,000,000 THUD Drones as First Responders Program $371,000 CJS
Advanced In-Car Camera System $323,000 CJS
Total Pending in FY27 Earmark Funding for the City of Fountain Valley: $5,694,000 FIRM’S GRANT WRITING EXPERIENCE
As the premier grant writing and advocacy firm for California municipalities, TPA has extensive experience in providing customized and effective grant writing services and has built a robust reputation by providing these services to more than 300 diverse cities throughout the state. With valuable state and federal agency relationships, an expansive understanding of countless funding programs in a wide range of policy areas, and the capacity to pursue any and all relevant opportunities, TPA has achieved over $3.3 billion in funding success on behalf of clients and has maintained a trusted client base by ensuring seamless and timely communication. The funding secured has been allocated toward projects that positively impact local communities, such as transportation infrastructure improvements, workforce development programs, regional public safety initiatives, and community beautification projects.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 5
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
This table provides an overview of our grant funding achievements on behalf of our clients from state, federal, and local government agencies as well as private and nonprofit grant programs. These amounts represent grants secured through a competitive and/or legislative process and do NOT include any funds awarded to clients via formulas or related forms of funding entitlements.
Policy Area State Funding Federal Funding All Sources
Water and Sanitation $134 Million $41.6 Million $175 Million Transportation $787 Million $390 Million $1,178 Million Education $262 Million $51.9 Million $313 Million
Parks and Recreation $312 Million $39 Million $351 Million Cultural Resources $140 Million $14.3 Million $154 Million Housing and Development $816 Million $48.5 Million $865 Million Public Safety $165 Million $115 Million $281 Million
TOTAL $2.6 Billion $701 Million $3.3 Billion
In line with this experience, the table below outlines programs TPA is either actively engaged on with City staff or that TPA is monitoring to support key City priorities.
Policy Area Program Timeline City Projects
Community
& Economic
Development
Small-Scale Water Efficiency
Projects
U.S. Department of the Interior
Application
Deadline:
June 2, 2026
Advanced Water
Metering Infrastructure
Upgrades
Health &
Safety
Carl Moyer Program
South Coast Air Quality
Management District
(SCAQMD)
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
Fire Apparatus
Acquisition
Assistance to Firefighters
Grant (AFG)
Federal Emergency
Management Administration
(FEMA)
TBD: Pending
Appropriations
Bill (DHS)
Fire Apparatus
Acquisition
Staffing for Adequate Fire and
Emergency Response Grants
(SAFER)
FEMA
TBD: Pending
Appropriations
Bill (DHS)
FVFD Hiring
Community &
Municipal
Planning
U.S.-Japan Global Impact
Grant
SisterCities International
Anticipated
Release:
Q4 2026
Sister City
Establishment &
Development
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 6
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Criminal
Justice
Technology &
Programs
Law Enforcement Mental
Health and Wellness Act
(LEMHWA)
U.S. Department of Justice
(DOJ)
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
FVPD Mental Health
Initiatives
Criminal
Justice
Technology &
Programs
Community Policing
Development (CPD)
DOJ
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
FVPD Mobile Crisis
Response Unit
Recreation &
Community
Services
Urban Greening Grant
Program
California Natural Resources
Agency (CNRA)
Anticipated
Release:
May 2026
Parkway Tree Planting
Program
Tennis Venue Services
Program
U.S. Tennis Association
(USTA)
Ongoing
TBD; pending
finalization of Parks
Master Plan
Enhanced Mobility for Seniors
and Individuals with
Disabilities Grant Program
Orange County Transportation
Authority (OCTA)
Anticipated
Release:
August 2026
Extended Hours for
Fountain Valley’s HOP
ON Senior
Transportation
Program
Statewide Park Development
and Community Revitalization
Program (SPP)
California State Parks
Anticipated
Release:
Q3 2026
TBD, pending
finalization of Parks
Master Plan
MemorialCare Community
Benefit Grant
Orange Coast Medical Center
Anticipated
Release:
Q3 2026
Extended Hours for
Fountain Valley’s HOP
ON Senior
Transportation
Program
Transportation
& Transit
Systems
Active Transportation Program
(ATP)
California Transportation
Commission (CTC)
Application
Deadline:
June 22, 2026
Four-Intersection Safeto-School Traffic Signal
Project
Surface Transportation Block
Grant/Congestion Mitigation
Air Quality Grant
(STBG/CMAQ)
Southern California
Association of Governments
(SCAG)
Anticipated
Release:
Q4 2026
Traffic Management
System (TMS)
Update/Replacement
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 7
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Information
Technology
State and Local Cybersecurity
Grant Program
FEMA/CalOES
Application
Submitted:
March 13, 2026
Comprehensive
Cybersecurity
Upgrades
Broadband Adoption Account
Program
California Advanced Services
Fund (CASF)
Application
Deadlines:
July 1, 2026
January 1, 2027
Broadband Expansion
& Digital Literacy
Accessibility
RELEVANT GRANT WRITING ACHIEVEMENTS
TPA has extensive experience helping cities like Fountain Valley secure competitive grant funding to advance key community priorities such as public safety, housing, infrastructure, and economic development. As a full-service city providing essential services to more than 56,000 residents, Fountain Valley continues to focus on enhancing the safety, livability, and resilience of its neighborhoods while fostering opportunities for growth and investment. TPA specializes in identifying and pursuing strategic funding opportunities that align with these goals, supporting projects that strengthen public safety operations, expand affordable housing options, improve local infrastructure, and promote economic vitality. These examples highlight recent grant awards TPA has secured on behalf of similar communities, demonstrating our proven ability to develop compelling applications, navigate complex funding programs, and deliver tangible results for our clients.
City of Palmdale: U.S. DOT RAISE Grant
Project
Description
TPA worked alongside the City of Palmdale to secure $23,000,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. This transformative funding will enable the City to construct a grade separation of Rancho Vista Boulevard at both Sierra Highway and the grade crossing of Metrolink and UP tracks. Elements of construction will include an overpass bridge, support columns and retaining walls, installation of paving, curbs, gutters, medians, sidewalks, streetlights, landscape and irrigation features, drainage facilities, and the relocation of utilities. This significant undertaking will improve access to daily needs such as jobs, education, health care, food, nature, and recreation. Utilizing lessons learned from previous cycles of funding, TPA drafted a compelling and competitive application and leveraged agency relationships to ensure success on behalf of the City.
City of Palm Desert: SCAG REAP 2.0 Regional Utilities Supporting Housing Grant Project
Description
TPA worked alongside the City of Palm Desert to secure $8,000,000 in Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 Regional Utilities Supporting Housing Pilot Program funding for extensive flood mitigation efforts and expand the city’s utility capacity to mitigate future severe flooding impacting future and existing housing developments along the I-10 corridor in an area that has experienced recent flood disasters. The project will support the development of 3,386 units currently approved and 1,663 units under review.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 8
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
City of Reedley: California DPR Statewide Parks Program Grant Project
Description
TPA worked on behalf of the City of Reedley to secure $4,049,992 in competitive grant funding through the California Department of Parks and Recreation's Statewide Parks Program in 2024. The award has enabled the City to upgrade and improve Camacho Park. TPA was responsible for submitting a complete and compelling project detailing the City's facilities improvement needs and the project's community benefit.
City of Murrieta: CalFIRE Wildfire Prevention Grant
Project
Description
On behalf of the City of Murrieta, TPA secured $2,653,344 in competitive grant funding administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFIRE) for hazardous fuel reduction efforts to mitigate fire risks and protect residents’ lives and property. This project will support Murrieta’s public safety initiatives and enhance the City’s responsiveness to emergencies. TPA was responsible for drafting and submitting the application, coordinating between stakeholders, and advocating for the funding to state legislators and agency officials.
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District: FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Project
Description
TPA partnered with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to secure $1,454,545 through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program for the acquisition of a new Heavy Rescue vehicle. TPA supported the District throughout the grant development process, including interpreting federal program guidelines, coordinating technical inputs, and crafting a competitive narrative aligned with FEMA priorities. The funded apparatus will enhance CCCFPD’s emergency response capabilities by improving its capacity to conduct complex technical rescues, respond to major incidents, and support regional mutual aid operations. This investment strengthens the District’s ability to protect life and property across its service area while ensuring firefighters are equipped with modern, reliable resources to safely perform critical operations.
City of Buena Park: California DPR Statewide Parks Program Grant Project
Description
TPA worked on behalf of the City of Buena Park to secure more than $3,190,543 in grant funding through the Statewide Parks Grant Program administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The funding will go towards improvements and upgrades to the City’s Whitaker School Park to ensure the facilities are inclusive and accessible to all residents, families, and children. TPA was integral in the development and submission of the grant narrative and application, as well as in postsubmittal advocacy efforts. These strategies ultimately ensured that the City was able to secure this significant funding and further its mission to serve its residents with high-quality parks and recreation centers.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 9
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
PROPOSED PROJECT TEAM
TPA proposes a dedicated team of five people to perform grant writing services for the City.
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Jake Leischner, Associate
Role: Project Manager; Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered Federal Lobbyist Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst
Role: Grants Analyst
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist The individual who will be principally responsible for working with the City will be Associate Jake Leischner. He will be directly supported by Grants Director Alex Gibbs, Senior Associates Anastasia Heaton and Sammi Maciel, and Grants Analyst Andy Ketsiri.
This dedicated “Grants Unit” will be supported by TPA’s 14 additional grant writers and advocates to ensure the City is able to take advantage of all funding avenues and secure significant funding success.
TPA uses a strategic approach to grant writing services that will be tailored to meet the specific needs of the City. To maximize success, TPA’s team of advocates and grant writers will utilize a collaborative approach and leverage an expansive collection of relationships in the state and federal governments, as well as a variety of policy expertise, including in transportation and infrastructure, water, education, parks and recreation, and local governance.
TPA will not utilize subcontractors for this engagement. TPA affirms the availability of key personnel to work on each task described in “General Cope of Work.” We also affirm that any changes to personnel assigned to this project shall be made in writing to the City.
The primary office from which TPA shall operate will be our Southern California office in Newport Beach.
Resumes for each member of the proposed project team can be found on the following pages.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 10
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director: Alex brings 15 years of experience in public policy and legislative advocacy to TPA. Alex has four years of experience working for the State Legislature, analyzing, researching, writing, and shepherding bills through the legislative process. Alex has also secured significant grant funding for clients throughout California.
Alex has expertise in the policy sectors of parks and recreation, natural resources, local governance, public safety, and transportation.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Grants Director 2014–Present During his tenure at TPA, Alex has secured millions in competitive grant funding across federal, state, and private programs for local public agencies, with expertise in parks and recreation, transportation, and public safety, and strong relationships with State Legislators and agency leadership. Key accomplishments include:
Secured over $17 million (Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Grant Program, CA Department of Health Care Services) for Kern County to establish a youth crisis walk-in center, expanding alternatives to incarceration, hospitalization, and homelessness.
Secured $7 million (Clean CA Local Grant Program, Caltrans) for the City of Oakland to advance the Courtland Creek Restoration and Mini Parks Beautification Projects.
Secured $6.5 million (Prop 68 Statewide Parks Program, Round 4) for Kern County’s South Kern Lamont Park Project, successfully funding park renovations despite program preference for new park development.
Secured $3 million (Urban Greening Program, CA Natural Resources Agency) for the Desert Recreation District to construct a new park and sports complex, with continued grant administration support.
Secured $868,000 (Active Transportation Program, Caltrans) for the City of South San Francisco’s Linden and Spruce Avenue Traffic Calming Project, improving pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Secured $750,000 (Land and Water Conservation Fund) for the City of Imperial to develop a 300+ acre regional park and equestrian center, including ongoing compliance support.
California State Senate
Legislative Aide 2012–2014
University of San Francisco, CA Bachelor of Arts, Politics 2011 San Diego State University
Professional Grant Writing Certification 2023
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 11
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Jake Leischner, Associate: Jake brings a variety of experience and knowledge to TPA, including extensive experience in the writing and editing of proposals. Jake has grant writing experience in areas such as economic and community development, parks and recreation, cultural resources, and natural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Associate 2024–Present
Since joining TPA, Jake has worked with clients to develop their funding proposals and secure competitive grant funding on projects. He has also worked to identify strategic funding resources that ensure his clients’ visions are transformed into reality. Some of his work includes:
Secured $5.05 million (NTIA Digital Equity Program) for the City of Moreno Valley to expand broadband access, improve digital literacy, and reduce barriers for underserved communities.
Secured $750,000 across three awards (Cal OES State and Local Cybersecurity Program) for municipal clients to enhance their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats.
Secured $301,440 (CA DOJ Tobacco Grant Program) for the City of Orange to support code enforcement efforts and strengthen public health protections.
Secured $1 million (LA County Measure A) for the City of Monterey Park to advance the Garvey Ranch Park Trail System Planning Project and Barnes Park Pool design.
Secured over $5.3 million through the FY 2026 federal earmark process for infrastructure, public safety, and community improvement projects.
Secured $122,000 (Office of Traffic Safety) for the City of La Verne to support extrication equipment and DUI enforcement programs.
Secured $11,623 (Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program) for the City of Lemoore to support DUI checkpoint operations and public safety efforts.
Experience securing funding from FEMA, Cal OES, NTIA, USDOT, and FHWA for projects related to cybersecurity, digital equity, infrastructure, and community development.
Proactively identifies funding opportunities by monitoring agency websites, attending grant webinars, and leveraging relationships, while advising clients on requirements, timelines, and best practices.
Claremont McKenna College
Bachelor of Arts, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics 2021 Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 12
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate: Anastasia brings a variety of experience and knowledge to TPA, including six years of experience in public cultural and historical resources. Anastasia has grant writing experience in areas such as water, parks and recreation, cultural resources, and natural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Senior Associate 2021–Present Since joining TPA, Anastasia has secured competitive federal, state, and regional grant funding for local agencies and built strong relationships with key funding agencies. Select accomplishments include:
Secured $23 million (USDOT RAISE) for the City of Palmdale for a railroad grade separation project improving safety and mobility.
Secured $12.1 million (SCAG REAP 2.0), including $8 million for housing infrastructure and $4.1 million for a housing loan fund in Murrieta.
Secured $6 million (State Budget) for the City of Agoura Hills Linear Park project.
Secured $2.3 million (CA Department of Water Resources) for drought relief projects in Kern and Marin Counties.
Secured $1 million (LA County Measure A) for park and recreation improvements in the City of Palmdale.
Secured $4.1 million (Building Forward Library Program) for statewide library infrastructure improvements.
Secured $2.4 million (EDA) for the Murrieta Innovation Center supporting economic development.
Secured $750,000 (Outdoor Equity Grants Program) for outdoor education programs in Merced Union High School District.
Secured $320,000 (USDOT SS4A) for the City of La Habra Safe Routes to Schools Plan.
Secured $230,000 (CPUC Broadband) for digital access improvements in the City of Palm Springs.
Secured $8,600 (LA County Arts Commission) for youth arts programming in the City of Palmdale.
Westmont College, Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Arts, History 2021
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 13
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate: Sammi brings eight years of federal legislative, funding, and public policy experience. Sammi has experience managing legislative activity, including bill analysis, research, and drafting, particularly for federal funding opportunities. Sammi has expertise in several policy sectors, including local governance, transportation, broadband, energy, and cultural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Senior Associate 2021–Present
Since joining TPA, Sammi has kept clients informed of significant actions and pertinent developments in the federal government and strategizes ways in which to influence and enact changes in Washington, DC that have concrete results for clients. Some of Sammi’s accomplishments include:
Leads TPA’s federal appropriations efforts, securing $97.5 million for 97 projects in FY 2026 through strategic advocacy and strong Congressional relationships.
Maintains key relationships with USDOT, DOE, and EPA, guiding clients through funding opportunities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.
Secured $2 million (Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Half Moon Bay’s Highway 1 Frenchman Creek intersection and bike/pedestrian improvements.
Secured $2 million ((Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Pleasanton to rehabilitate a PFAS-impacted drinking water well.
Secured $2 million (Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Brea to modernize Arovista Park, including an all-accessible playground.
Secured $800,000 (Federal Community Project Funding) for the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority to improve ADA accessibility across its trail system.
U.S. Senate, Office of Senator Kamala Harris (CA)
Field Representative 2019–2021
Sammi represented a 30-county region on behalf of Senator Harris, attending events, hosting meetings, and facilitating outreach to constituents. She tracked key issues, facilitated rapid response, and built an extensive network of relationships with local elected officials and advocacy groups within her 30-county region. Additionally, Sammi drafted letters of support for her region addressed to numerous federal agencies, requesting funding for key projects.
U.S. Senate, Office of Senator Dianne Feinstein (CA)
Legislative Intern Summer of 2017
Dominican University of California
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science 2017
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 14
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst: Andy brings strong experience in research, policy analysis, writing, and program coordination, with a background spanning public policy, intergovernmental affairs, and higher education. She has supported complex research initiatives, managed large-scale programs, and produced clear, persuasive written materials for diverse audiences. Andy’s expertise includes grant research and analysis, policy and program evaluation, stakeholder coordination, data synthesis, and technical writing.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Grants Analyst 2025–Present
Andy supports TPA clients by conducting grant research, developing funding analyses, and assisting with the preparation of competitive grant applications across state and federal programs. Her academic training and professional experience equip her with strong analytical rigor, attention to detail, and the ability to translate complex program requirements into actionable guidance for local government clients. Andy’s work includes:
Conducts comprehensive research on state and federal grant programs, eligibility criteria, and agency priorities to identify funding opportunities aligned with client projects.
Prepares clear and concise grant opportunity summaries, matrices, and eligibility analyses to support client decision-making and strategic planning.
Assists with the development of grant narratives, supporting documentation, and application materials, ensuring compliance with agency guidelines and deadlines.
Tracks federal and state funding cycles, Notices of Funding Opportunity, and agency announcements to keep clients informed of emerging opportunities.
Collaborates with TPA’s advocacy and grants teams to support client strategies, compile data, and develop written materials that strengthen funding competitiveness.
The White House
Intern, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs 2019
Andy supported intergovernmental coordination efforts by conducting research, drafting reports, and analyzing policy initiatives to support collaboration between federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. This role provided foundational exposure to federal agencies, intergovernmental processes, and public policy development.
Columbia University
Master of Arts, History and Literature 2024
University of California, Irvine
Bachelor of Arts, History and Political Science 2021
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 15
APPROACH AND SCHEDULE
TPA will utilize the following strategic and comprehensive approach to provide grant writing services to the City:
Conduct Detailed Orientation: TPA will utilize a continuation of our comprehensive onboarding process that includes extensive meetings with various relevant members of City leadership and key City departments to help develop a strategic plan that is carefully tailored to satisfy the needs of the City and is designed for maximum success in the current political climate and funding environment.
Craft Strategic Funding Plan: Utilizing the information gathered during the onboarding process, TPA will coordinate with the City to develop a proactive and comprehensive strategic funding plan that serves the needs of the City’s priorities.
The plan will do more than simply identify City projects; it will outline and prioritize multiple funding options for each project and develop a specific plan of work tailored for each project. It will also identify key “strings attached” to help assess the cost/benefit ratio for each grant opportunity.
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding Opportunities: TPA will utilize listserve subscription programs, funding workshops, agency canvassing, and other networking tactics to ensure every potential opportunity is identified and reviewed for relevance with the City’s projects. TPA will then share these opportunities with the City for further assessment and determination if a grant application is warranted. The City will also receive a grant matrix of funding programs that is updated regularly as new opportunities arise.
Community Outreach: TPA will assist the City with community outreach required for grant applications by ensuring the City is aware of specific requirements, helping develop materials that capture all elements required by the grant, and compiling the outreach data for inclusion in the application.
Grant Application Development and Submittal: TPA will develop, draft, submit, and follow up on each City grant application through the following process:
o Establishment of Clear Accountabilities: TPA will coordinate with the City to ensure the assignment of responsibilities and tasks are made clear so that confusion and inefficiency are avoided, and the City is burdened as little as possible while TPA pursues a grant opportunity. o Provide Overview of Full Application Requirements: For each grant application, TPA will provide the City with a detailed overview of the requirements for the grant program and corresponding application to ensure that the program is a strong fit for the City’s project. This will include:
Application timeline
Eligible project types
Funding availability and award maximums and minimums
List of application components, including proposal questions and any required attachments
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 16
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
o Assemble Project Background and Details: TPA will conduct a detailed informational interview with City staff most involved with each project to gain a full understanding of the project background and scope details necessary for developing the grant proposal and addressing all application questions. o Coordinate Technical Project Details: For technical application components such as site plans, detailed cost estimates, project timelines, engineering plans, and cost-benefit analyses, TPA will coordinate with City staff to compile all necessary attachments and ensure consistency across all elements of the application.
o Draft Written Proposal: TPA will fully draft all narrative components of the application and, when applicable, will indicate where additional input or project detail from the City could be provided during the proposal review process. o Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal: Well ahead of the application deadline, TPA will provide the City with a full draft for review and feedback.
TPA will incorporate any additional details or revisions provided during this process to finalize the grant application and will obtain City approval for the final version of the application before submission.
o Submit Completed Application: TPA will ensure that applications are submitted before the deadline, whether the submission is electronic or through hard copies, in accordance with submission instructions for each individual program. For hard copy submissions, TPA will print and package applications according to submission instructions and will ship applications through a reliable courier service such as FedEx to provide the City with tracking and delivery confirmation for the application. TPA will also obtain a receipt for proof of submission and provide the City with a final copy of all submitted application documents.
o Funding Advocacy: Throughout the grant application process TPA will leverage relationships with relevant officials and program officers in various state and federal funding agencies to ensure that City grant applications are aligned with the goals of the specific grant program and that the applications are well-crafted and well-positioned for funding.
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy: TPA will frequently contact legislators and agency officials to follow up on the status of a grant application and promote its need and urgency. This will include drafting letters of support after grant submissions and distributing them to legislators for their consideration. In addition, TPA will work with legislators to reach out to individual granting agencies to provide background on the City’s projects and convey their support for those projects.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 17
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance: TPA will also assist, as needed, with post-award administration and compliance for all grant applications submitted by TPA on behalf of the City. This assistance will include interacting with granting agencies on behalf of the City, providing support for the drafting and submission of required reports and evaluations, and other tasks related to the successful monitoring of and compliance with the program requirements.
Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy: TPA has a track record of success with post-award grant administration and retention. TPA has worked on behalf of clients who, due to unforeseen circumstances, have needed to request an extension of the grant performance period to accomplish project deliverables. TPA is prepared to engage in the legislative process and work with legislators to get bills passed that would allow for the City to retain its grant funding after the performance period would have otherwise ended. Additionally, TPA is prepared to work directly with the City and agencies to secure scope of work changes to already awarded projects to ensure the City will not have to return any hard-won grant funding.
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications: Despite all best efforts, some grant applications are not selected for funding. When grant applications are unsuccessful, TPA will work with the relevant state and federal funding agencies to set up in-person or telephone debriefing sessions to discuss the grant applications and how to best revise the grant applications for the next funding round to ensure success.
Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process:
TPA will monitor the release of new federal guidance for each fiscal year, identify eligible City projects by subcommittee, and draft competitive applications to submit for federal funding. Additionally, TPA will engage directly with Congressional and Senate office and appropriations staff to advocate for the inclusion of the City’s requests in the federal appropriations bills.
Provide Progress Reports: TPA will confer regularly with the City on our activities.
TPA will provide timely electronic monthly reports on the status of all funding activity, such as current funding opportunities, current applications, submitted applications, and post-grant submittal advocacy. In addition to written reports, TPA will be available to the City for conference calls, in-person briefings, and meetings.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
TPA will utilize the following project schedule for this engagement:
TASK TIMELINE
Conduct Detailed Orientation Contract Start
Craft Strategic Funding Plan Contract Start/Annually
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding Opportunities Ongoing Grant Application Development and Submittal Ongoing/As Needed Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Ongoing/As Needed Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 18
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
The information below provides more in-depth details on TPA’s anticipated schedule and specific task timelines for the grant application process:
TPA identifies grant opportunities based on priority projects provided by the City during onboarding sessions. TPA will provide monthly, or otherwise regular updates, to staff on upcoming and ongoing grant applications that have the potential to align with City projects. (Ongoing throughout the term of the contract) Once a grant application is identified, TPA will meet with the project staff to gather the initial project details and begin an application. As soon as an application is identified as a “go,” TPA will provide a comprehensive grant checklist detailing what is required for the application and any additional forms, logins, or completion items required from City staff.
(Typically, a 4-8 week process, flexible given deadline restrictions or staff capacity) TPA will provide a comprehensive grant application draft well in advance of the grant submission deadline, with final edits and approval required from City staff. (2-4 weeks in advance of grant deadline)
Once final approval is obtained from City staff, TPA will submit and upload all grant applications well in advance of the application deadline. (Within 1 week of application deadline)
TPA will conduct comprehensive grant follow-up between application submittal and grant award announcement and will provide status updates to City staff. (Typically, a 3-8 month review period, flexible to each individual grant program) If a grant application is successful, TPA will ensure City staff is connected with the agency for follow-up grant award procedures. If unsuccessful, TPA will conduct comprehensive debrief sessions to best position the City for application resubmittal in future funding cycles.
(Ongoing comprehensive follow-up and post-grant award announcement) Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Ongoing/As Needed Assemble Project Background and Details Ongoing/As Needed Coordinate Technical Project Details Ongoing/As Needed
Draft Written Proposal Ongoing/As Needed
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Ongoing/As Needed Submit Completed Application Ongoing/As Needed
Funding Advocacy As Needed
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy As Needed
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance As Needed Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy As Needed Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications As Needed Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process Annually
Provide Progress Reports Monthly/As Requested
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 19
UNDERSTANDING OF PROJECT COMPONENTS / QUALITY CONTROL
INVOLVEMENT OF CITY STAFF
TPA is committed to maximizing return on investment for the City of Fountain Valley while minimizing demands on City staff. Acting as an extension of staff, TPA will take the lead on researching funding opportunities, compiling application materials, coordinating documentation, and managing submission timelines. While City staff will provide technical project details, budget information, and other necessary inputs, TPA will significantly reduce administrative burden by managing the day-to-day grant development process.
TPA’s team-based approach allows multiple grant professionals to pursue a broad range of funding opportunities simultaneously, ensuring that the City does not miss timesensitive or competitive funding programs. This proactive and comprehensive strategy enables TPA to pursue federal, state, regional, and private funding sources concurrently, maximizing funding potential while minimizing staff workload. Through this collaborative model, TPA enables City staff to remain focused on core responsibilities while still advancing priority projects and achieving measurable funding outcomes.
FIRM’S STRENGTHS
TPA’s integrated team of experienced grant writers and registered lobbyists provides a unique, results-driven approach designed to maximize return on investment for clients.
Over 80% of TPA clients receive more than $1 million in grant awards within their first full year of working with the firm, reflecting TPA’s proactive strategy to pursue all viable funding opportunities and advocate for client priorities at every stage of the process.
Unlike traditional grant-writing firms, TPA provides full-service funding advocacy that extends beyond application development. TPA actively engages with funding agencies, legislative offices, and decision-makers before, during, and after application submittal to strengthen competitiveness and increase the likelihood of award. This approach includes pursuing competitive grants, formula funding, and congressional earmarks, ensuring that all potential funding avenues are explored.
Since our founding, TPA has supported more than 300 public agencies throughout California, with extensive experience working with cities across Southern California. This experience, combined with TPA’s proactive pursuit of opportunities and strong advocacy strategy, enables the firm to consistently secure significant funding and deliver measurable results for clients while offsetting limited staff capacity.
TPA is exceptionally proud of the positive impacts we have had across communities in California. From securing critical infrastructure grants to advancing regionally significant projects, our work reflects a deep commitment to helping public agencies turn their priorities into reality.
To see examples of the funding we’ve helped secure on behalf of cities, counties, and other public agencies, we invite you to explore our Interactive Funding Map. This dynamic tool highlights the breadth of our work and the real-world outcomes TPA has delivered across the state.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 20
REFERENCES
1. CITY OF MONTEREY PARK
Contact Name/Title: Shawn Igoe, Director of Public Works Phone Number/Email: 626-307-1323; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $6,150,373 secured from March 1, 2023 to present Total ROI: 2,177% - Annualized ROI: 183.5%
2. CITY OF STANTON
Contact Name/Title: Hannah Shin-Heydorn, City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-890-4277; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $8,775,210 secured from April 11, 2017 to present Total ROI: 1,835% - Annualized ROI: 39%
3. CITY OF ORANGE
Contact Name/Title: Jack Morgan, Deputy City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-744-2222; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner and Alex Gibbs
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $6,509,940 secured from October 26, 2022 to present Total ROI: 1,622% - Annualized ROI: 126%
4. CITY OF SAN LEANDRO
Contact Name/Title: Eric Engelbart, Deputy City Manager Phone Number/Email: 510-577-3389; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Alex Gibbs
Project Description: TPA provides state legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $11,696,467 secured from February 18, 2014 to present Total ROI: 1,525% - Annualized ROI: 26%
5. CITY OF BUENA PARK
Contact Name/Title: Aaron France, City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-562-3550; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Anastasia Heaton and Sammi Maciel
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $32,678,337 secured from July 1, 2009 to present Total ROI: 1,923% - Annualized ROI: 20%
Rev 10/25
Exhibit
Insurance Specifications
Rev 10/25
INSURANCE SPECIFICATIONS
under this AGREEMENT or receiving any compensation, CONSULTANT shall obtain, provide and maintain at its own expense during the term of this AGREEMENT, policies of insurance of the type and amounts described below and in a form that is satisfactory to CITY.
General liability insurance. CONSULTANT shall maintain commercial general liability insurance with coverage at least as broad as Insurance Services Office form CG 00 01, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 general aggregate, for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. The policy must include contractual liability that has not been amended. Any endorsement restricting standard Fountain Valley, and its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers as additional insureds.
Umbrella or excess liability insurance. [If required to meet higher limits]. Umbrella liability insurance requirements. CONSULTANT shall obtain and maintain an umbrella liability insurance policy that offers comprehensive coverage. This policy must include coverage for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage, and it should extend to encompass commercial general liability, automobile liability, and -down feature. This feature activates if any primary insurance becomes partially or wholly uncollectible for any reason, excluding the bankruptcy or insolvency of the primary insurer.
basis, as opposed to reimbursement model, to ensure direct payment of claims by the insurer.
the underlying primary insurance policies to ensure continuous coverage.
Excess liability insurance requirements. The CONSULTANT shall obtain and maintain an excess liability insurance policy. This policy must be structured to provide additional e policy are as follows:
Follow-form coverage. The policy adheres strictly to the terms and conditions of the underlying policies, ensuring seamless integration of coverage.
Drop-down provision. This provision states that the excess policy will respond as primary coverage in the event that the underlying insurer is unable to pay a claim due to insolvency, unless an insolvency exclusion specifically applies.
Rev 10/25
basis, as opposed to a reimbursement model, to ensure direct payment of claims by the insurer.
Concurrency of coverage. The policy effective dates must align with those of the underlying policies to prevent any gaps in coverage.
Automobile liability insurance. CONSULTANT shall maintain automobile insurance at least as broad as Insurance Services Office form CA 00 01 covering bodily injury and property damage for all activities of CONSULTANT arising out of or in connection with the work to be performed under this AGREEMENT, including coverage for any owned, hired, non-owned, or rented vehicles, in an amount not less than $1,000,000.00 combined single limit for each accident.
. CONSULTANT shall maintain
Compensation Insurance (Statutory Limits) and Liability Insurance (with limits of at least $1,000,000 dollars). CONSULTANT shall submit to CITY, along with the certificate of insurance, a Waiver of Subrogation endorsement in favor of CITY, its officers, agents, employees, and volunteers.
Professional liability (errors & omissions) insurance. CONSULTANT shall maintain professional liability insurance that covers the services to be performed in connection with this AGREEMENT, in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 per claim and in the aggregate. Any policy inception date, continuity date, or retroactive date must be before the effective date of this AGREEMENT and CONSULTANT agrees to maintain continuous coverage through a period of no less than three years after completion of the services required by this AGREEMENT. Other provisions or requirements
Proof of insurance. CONSULTANT shall provide certificates of insurance and required endorsements to CITY as evidence of the insurance coverage required herein. Insurance certificates and endorsements must be approved by CITY prior to commencement of performance. Current certification of insurance shall be kept on file with CITY for the contract period and any additional length of time required thereafter. CITY reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, at any time.
Duration of coverage. CONSULTANT shall procure and maintain for the contract period and any additional length of time required thereafter, insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property, or financial loss, which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder by CONSULTANT, their agents, representatives, employees, or subconsultants/ subcontractors. If this AGREEMENT involves construction, CONSULTANT must maintain general liability and umbrella or excess liability insurance for as long as there is a statutory exposure to completed operations claims. CITY and its officers, officials, employees, and agents shall continue as additional insureds under such policies.
Primary/noncontributing. Coverage provided by CONSULTANT shall be primary and any insurance or self-insurance procured or maintained by CITY shall not be required to Rev 10/25
contribute with it. The limits of insurance required herein may be satisfied by a combination of primary and umbrella or excess insurance. Any umbrella or excess insurance shall contain or be endorsed to contain a provision that such coverage shall also apply on a primary and non-contributory basis for the benefit of CITY before the own insurance or self-insurance shall be called upon to protect it as a named insured. . In the event any policy of insurance required under this AGREEMENT does not comply with these specifications or is canceled and not replaced, CITY has the right but not the duty to obtain the insurance it deems necessary and any premium paid by CITY will be promptly reimbursed by CONSULTANT or CITY will alternative, CITY may cancel this AGREEMENT.
Acceptable insurers. All insurance policies shall be issued by an insurance company currently authorized by the Insurance Commissioner to transact business of insurance in - (or higher) and
Key Rating Guide, unless otherwise approved by CITY.
Waiver of subrogation. With the exception of Professional Liability, all insurance coverage maintained or procured pursuant to this AGREEMENT shall be endorsed to waive subrogation against CITY, its elected or appointed officers, agents, officials, employees, and volunteers or shall specifically allow CONSULTANT or others providing insurance evidence in compliance with these specifications to waive their right of recovery prior to a loss. CONSULTANT hereby waives its own right of recovery against CITY and shall require similar written express waivers and insurance clauses from each of its subconsultants/subcontractors.
Enforcement of contract provisions (non estoppel). CONSULTANT acknowledges and agrees that any actual or alleged failure on the part of CITY to inform CONSULTANT of noncompliance with any requirement imposes no additional obligations on the CITY nor does it waive any rights hereunder.
Requirements not limiting. Requirements of specific coverage features or limits contained in this Section are not intended as a limitation on coverage, limits on other requirements, or a waiver of any coverage normally provided by any insurance. Specific reference to a given coverage feature is for purposes of clarification only as it pertains to a given issue and is not intended by any party or insured to be all inclusive, or to the exclusion of other coverage, or a waiver of any type. If the CONSULTANT maintains higher limits than the minimums shown above, the CITY requires and shall be entitled to coverage for the higher limits maintained by the CONSULTANT. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to the CITY.
Notice of cancellation. CONSULTANT agrees to oblige its insurance agent or broker and insurers to provide to CITY with a thirty (30) day notice of cancellation (except for nonpayment for which a ten (10) day notice is required) or nonrenewal of coverage for Rev 10/25
each required coverage. If any of the insurers are unwilling to provide such notice, then Consultant shall have the responsibility of notifying the CITY immediately in the event of failure to renew any of the required insurance -renewal.
Additional insured status. General liability, automobile liability, and umbrella/excess liability insurance policies shall provide or be endorsed to provide that CITY and its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers shall be additional insureds under such policies.
Prohibition of undisclosed coverage limitations. None of the coverages required herein will be in compliance with these requirements if they include any limiting endorsement of any kind that has not been first submitted to CITY and approved of in writing.
Separation of insureds. A severability of interests provision must apply for all additional of liability. The policy(ies) shall not contain any cross-liability exclusions.
Pass through clause. CONSULTANT agrees to ensure that its subconsultants, subcontractors, and any other party who is brought onto or involved in the project/service by CONSULTANT
insurance coverage and endorsements required of CONSULTANT. CONSULTANT agrees to monitor and review all such coverage and assumes all responsibility for ensuring that such coverage is provided in conformity with the requirements of this section. However, in the event subcontractor cannot comply with this requirement, which proof must be submitted to the CITY, CONSULTANT shall be required to ensure that its subcontractor provide and maintain insurance coverage and scope of work and services, with limits less than required of the CONSULTANT, but in all other terms consistent with the requirements under this agreement. This provision does not relieve the CONSULTANT of its contractual obligations under the agreement and/or limit its liability to the amount of insurance coverage provided by its subcontractors. This provision is intended solely to provide CONSULTANT with the ability to utilize a subcontractor who may be otherwise qualified to perform the work or services but may not carry the same insurance limits as required of the CONSULTANT under this agreement given the limited scope of work or services provided by the subcontractor.
CONSULTANT agrees that upon request, all agreements with subcontractors, and others engaged in the project, will be submitted to CITY for review. right to revise specifications. CITY reserves the right at any time during the term of the AGREEMENT to change the amounts and types of insurance required by giving CONSULTANT ninety (90) days advance written notice of such change. If such change results in substantial additional cost to CONSULTANT, CITY and CONSULTANT may compensation.
Self-insured retentions. Any self-insured retentions must be declared to and approved Rev 10/25
by CITY. CITY reserves the right to require that self-insured retentions be eliminated, lowered, or replaced by a deductible, or require proof of ability to pay losses and related investigations, claim administration, and defense expenses within the retention through confirmation from the underwriter. Self-insurance will not be considered to comply with these specifications unless approved by CITY.
Timely notice of claims. CONSULTANT shall give CITY prompt and timely notice of performance under this AGREEMENT, and that involve or may involve coverage under any of the required liability policies.
Additional insurance. CONSULTANT shall also procure and maintain, at its own cost and expense, any additional kinds of insurance, which in its own judgment may be necessary for its proper protection and prosecution of the work.
City of Fountain Valley
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
FOR
GRANT WRITING CONSULTANT SERVICES
RFP NO. 26-008
KEY DATES
Questions Deadline: Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. PST Proposals Due Date: Monday, April 27, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. PST City Contact:
Amanda Peñaloza, Mgmt. Analyst / Purchasing Officer
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (714) 593-4413
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY’S ELECTRONIC BIDDING SITE, PLANETBIDS *Read Upload Instructions*
for important information on the best time to upload proposals (Issued March 30, 2026)
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
1 | P a g e
(Blank Page)
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
2 | P a g e
City of Fountain Valley Request for Proposal for
Grant Writing Consultant Services
The City of Fountain Valley is requesting proposals from experienced and qualified consultants for on-call, as needed and monthly retainer comprehensive grant writing preparation and management services. The City is open to contracting with an individual or firm specializing in the management of the overall grant writing process including assisting the City to maximize the benefits of grant funding. The goal is to secure external funding for projects / services which would otherwise require the City to utilize local tax dollars.
Proposals, prepared according to the following detailed instructions, must be received electronically via PlanetBids no later than Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. PST.
The City of Fountain Valley assumes no obligations of any kind for expenses incurred by any respondent to this solicitation.
It is the City of Fountain Valley’s policy to ensure nondiscrimination in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement. Firms will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex in consideration for an award as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
I. SUMMARY
The City of Fountain Valley (“City”) is requesting proposals from qualified consultants (“Consultant”) to support grant-related services under distinct engagement models (see below). Proposers may submit for one or both roles; however, the City reserves the right to award contracts in the best interest of the City.
The City intends to award a two (2) year contract with the option to extend up to 4 one (1) year extensions to the proposer(s) selected as the most qualified, responsive and responsible provider of services to the City with the anticipated start date of this contract of July 1, 2026.
II. ABOUT THE CITY
The City of Fountain Valley is a general law city that has operated under the councilmanager form of government since its incorporation in 1957. The City is located in Orange County, California, and is located roughly 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 90 miles northwest of San Diego. The City has an estimated population of 56,560 and has a land area of 9.75 square miles. Fountain Valley is a full-service City that offers a range of municipal services that includes but is not limited to police and fire protection; water and sewer utility operations; building and safety; development services for land use planning, and zoning; housing and community development; and a full range of recreation and cultural activities.
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
3 | P a g e
III. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City is requesting proposals from qualified consultants to provide comprehensive grant writing, preparation, and management services. It is the intention of the City to apply for grants that can provide supplementary funding for projects and services, thereby alleviating the need to utilize additional budgetary resources. The City aims to identify and procure grants that can assist with one-time projects and/or help launch new programs to serve the community.
CONSULTANT RESPONSIBILITIES:
A. Monthly Anticipated Responsibilities:
Conduct ongoing grant research and identification aligned with City priorities
Coordinate with City departments to assess funding needs and develop grant strategies
Prepare and submit grant applications on a rolling basis Develop and maintain a grant calendar and pipeline
Provide post-award support, including reporting, compliance tracking, and documentation (as applicable)
Attend regular check-in meetings with City staff (e.g., monthly or as needed)
Provide a monthly activity report summarizing work performed, grant opportunities identified, and application statuses Workload & Responsiveness Expectations:
Provide a consistent level of service each month, as defined in the agreed-upon scope and fee structure
Respond to City communications within one (1) to two (2) business days
Meet all grant deadlines and agreed-upon internal timelines B. Case-by-case Anticipated Responsibilities:
Assist with the preparation and submission of specific grant applications as assigned by the City
Provide specialized expertise for complex, large-scale, or highly competitive funding opportunities
Support discrete components of the grant process (e.g., narrative development, data analysis, budget preparation)
Coordinate with City staff as directed
Workload & Responsiveness Expectations:
Engagements will be task-based and initiated at the City’s RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
4 | P a g e
discretion
Respond to assignment requests within one (1) to two (2) business days
Adhere to project-specific timelines and deliverables
IV. GENERAL SCOPE OF WORK
The following are typical services and/or items the successful consultant will be required to provide the City if awarded the contract and should be addressed in the proposal.
Firms or individuals submitting a response to this RFP shall provide the City with a detailed description of the work that will be completed using this Scope of Work as a guide.
Funding needs analysis – Work with the City’s departments to assess the validity of current funding opportunities and identify new and potential funding opportunities pertaining to each department.
Grant funding research – Conduct research to identify grant resources including, but not limited to federal, state, foundation, agencies, and organizations that support the City’s funding needs and priorities in the following general areas meant to illustrate opportunities not limit or demonstrate order of importance:
o Community and Economic Development
o Health and Safety
o Community and Municipal Planning
o Criminal Justice Technology and Programs
o Infrastructure Development and Maintenance
o Recreation and Community Services
o Transportation and Transit Systems
o Information Technology
Grant writing and administration – Consultant will be expected to do the following pertaining to grant applications and other items as determined by grant requirements:
o Review application guidelines and prepare a timeline and chart of tasks for grant submissions.
o Write all sections of the grant application.
o Ensure proper completion and timely submission of all financial and performance reports and other periodic reporting requirements. o Prepare and maintain public information binder.
o Provide labor compliance services.
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
5 | P a g e
o Maintain grant compliance and reporting, including outcome measurements and grant budgets.
o Ensure letters of support and other required certifications or documents are submitted with the grant as described in the grant guidelines. o Provide success metrics to the City (e.g. dollars secured, submissions completed, compliance rate)
Grant proposal development – Provide grant proposal writing services associated with the completion of grant applications on behalf of the City, including preparation of funding abstracts, production, and submittal of applications to funding sources.
An electronic copy of each grant application (including any additional grant application submissions or resources) shall be provided to the City.
Monthly reports – The successful consultant shall submit a monthly report to the City summarizing the amount of time expended and described activities undertaken during the previous month. Additional reports on successful grants and management of the grant will be requested each month for the previous month in order to determine if the grant is being successfully utilized.
Additional requests within a reasonable connection or association with the abovementioned may be asked for on a case-by-case basis pertaining to irregular requests or particular requirements of grant applications.
V. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
A. General Requirements
Inquiries/Questions concerning this request for proposal should be made before 4:00 p.m., PST, on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
If the Proposer is in doubt as to the meaning or finds discrepancies and/or omissions from any part of the RFP and Agreement Documents, the Proposer must submit a written request for clarification via PlanetBids.
All questions regarding this project shall be submitted electronically in PlanetBids up to the Question and Answer (QA) deadline. All project correspondence will be posted on PlanetBids. It is the responsibility of the Proposers to check the website regularly for information updates, clarifications, and addenda. At the Agency’s discretion, Proposers requests for clarifications may or may not be responded to.
All revisions of the RFP by the City will be made in writing and will be posted on PlanetBids in accordance with the procurement schedule. Proposers shall electronically acknowledge receipt of all addenda at time of submittal and all addenda so issued shall become part of the RFP and the effects of all Addenda shall be considered in the proposal.
B. Submission of Proposals
Proposals must be received no later than 4:00 p.m., PST, Thursday, April 23, 2026.
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
6 | P a g e
Proposals shall be received in electronic format EXCLUSIVELY at the City of Fountain Valley’s electronic bidding (ebidding) site, at:
https://pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/25002/portal-home and are due by the date, and time shown on this solicitation. See “upload instructions” document for details. Files are to be uploaded accordingly:
Response File: Upload proposal with no cost attached.
General Attachments: If City request forms, upload under specified file as shown on PlanetBids.
Cost File: Cost proposal is to be uploaded electronically as a separate file and not attached to the response file.
Line Item (if required): make sure to input an amount on each item, can use the notes section to clarify your amount.
The following instructions describe the form in which proposals must be presented. Proposal documents must be prepared simply, economically, and provide a straightforward, concise response to the requirements of the RFP.
Completeness and clarity of content must be emphasized. The requirements stated do not preclude proposers from furnishing additional reports, functions, and costs as deemed appropriate.
C. Proposal Content Format
It should contain no more than twenty (20) pages, including exhibits and resumes, single-sided, single column, portrait layout, 1" side margins and 1/2" top and bottom margins, font size no less than 12 pt., and single or double spaced.
RFP Addenda - Proposers shall check the website for addenda prior to proposing and shall be required to electronically acknowledge receipt of all addenda at time of proposal submittal.
1. Transmittal Letter
The proposal transmittal letter shall be addressed to the Purchasing Officer for the City of Fountain Valley and shall contain the following:
Name of individual, partnership, company, or corporation submitting proposal.
Statement that indicates an understanding of the scope of work as presented in this specification and confirmation that all terms and conditions of the RFP are understood and acknowledged by the undersigned.
Team organization including an organization diagram and time commitment shall be submitted showing all key team members and RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
7 | P a g e
illustrating the relationship between the City, the manager, and key staff.
Signature(s) of representative(s) legally authorized to bind the proposer.
2. Company Experience
Provide a description of your company’s experience (including subconsultants’ experience) in performing similar work, addressing the elements listed above.
3. Key Personnel/Past Performance
Identify and describe the relevant experience and qualifications of the pertinent individuals who would serve as key personnel for various City of Fountain Valley projects.
Identify other staff members and/or sub-consultants that would contribute to the project, and their relevant experience.
Identify availability of key personnel to work on each task described in “General Scope of Work”.
If sub-consultants are used, names of sub-consultants’ key personnel for the project, their professional experience, qualifications, and training which are applicable to this project, and the scope of services that will be provided by each sub-consultant.
Any changes to personnel assigned to this project shall be made in writing to the CITY. The CITY reserves the right to reject any proposal with modified personnel.
The office location from which the consultant(s) shall operate.
4. Approach and Schedule
Discuss your company’s ability to provide desired services, addressing the elements listed under “General Scope of Work”.
Describe how your company would ensure City requests are completed in a timely manner.
5. Understanding of Project Components
Identify objectives/tasks that you feel are key to the success of the project; this may include items not already identified in this Request for Proposal. References for protocols and methods are encouraged.
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
8 | P a g e
6. Quality Control
Describe the standards and methods used by the company to ensure useful quality deliverables of this nature to the client.
Describe how your firm will address concerns or deficiencies in quality control and deliverables and give a specific example.
7. References
Provide descriptions and references for five comparable projects that your company has previously performed, including contact names, company/agency and telephone numbers for each.
Identify key personnel listed on this proposal who have worked on the reference projects
8. Cost / Fee (submit as a separate document, not attached to the Proposal/Response file)
Compensation for services provided shall be based upon the Contractor’s detailed fee proposal.
Identification of all costs Consultant/Vendor will charge for performing the tasks necessary to accomplish the objectives of this RFP. The costs must break out all expenses expected to be billed to the City.
Cost proposal shall include the estimated number of project work hours by each task/requirement, and the cost of each
task/requirement. A list of hourly rates of proposed project team members shall also be included along with any other fees that may be applicable and billed. Cost is to be listed for the term of the contract.
Firms shall provide complete cost and billing schedules of current hourly billing rates for each specialized skill, material, and support services.
A work program together with a breakdown of labor hours by employee billing classification together with the cost of non-labor and subcontractor services shall be included with the fee proposal. The labor breakdown shall be compiled based upon a listing of work tasks that correlates with the firm’s defined scope of work for project proposal.
This information will be used by the City staff to evaluate and compare the reasonableness of the fee schedule and may be used in determining the total cost for the proposed work.
Provide all costs/fees of the service contract which will be for a period of two (2) years with the option to extend up to 4 one (1) year extensions.
VI. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
9 | P a g e
A. DISCLAIMER
This RFP does not commit the City to award a contract, or to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the proposal. The City reserves the right to extend the due date for the proposal, to accept or reject any or all proposals received as a result of this request, to negotiate with any qualified Contractor, or to cancel this RFP in part or in its entirety. The City may require the selected Contractor to participate in negotiations and to submit such technical, fee, or other revisions of their proposals as may result from Negotiations.
VII. TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
The following is the Schedule of events that the City plans to follow in conducting this solicitation:
Event Tentative Date
Issuance of RFP Monday, March 30, 2026
Clarification Questions Due by Thursday, April 9, 2026
Due Date for Submittal of Proposals Monday, April 27, 2026 Interviews of Finalists, if applicable Week of May 18, 2026 Tentative Selection and City Council Award Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Begin Project Wednesday, July 1, 2026
VIII. PROPOSAL EVALUATION, INTERVIEWS AND AWARD PROCESS A. Evaluation Criteria
Award will be based upon a review and evaluation by a committee designated by the Purchasing Officer. Each proposal will be evaluated based on the following criteria but not limited to.
General approach and work plans to meet the requirements of the specified City objectives described in the RFP. Depth of proposer’s understanding of City’s requirements and overall quality of work plan and clarity. Understanding of compliance with all Federal, State and County health regulations
Qualifications and experience of the project manager and other key individuals.
The contractor’s /consultant’s past performance on projects of similar size and scope.
Cost & Price. Reasonableness of rates; competitiveness with other offers received; adequacy of data in support of figures quoted.
B. Interviews
If interviews are needed, a few days’ notice will be sent via email to the proposer. An interview may not be required or needed to award a contract.
C. Evaluation Procedure
RFP NO. 26-008
Grant Writing Consultant Services
10 | P a g e
An evaluation committee will be appointed to review all proposals received for this RFP. The committee is chaired by the Purchasing Officer, comprised of City staff and may include outside personnel. The committee members will evaluate the written proposals using the evaluation criteria identified. A list of top-ranked proposals, firms within a competitive range, will be developed based upon the totals of each committee members’ score for each proposal. During the evaluation period, the City may interview some or all of the proposing firms. The City has established the week of May 18, 2026 as the date(s) to conduct interviews. All prospective Proposers are asked to keep these dates available. No other interview dates will be provided, therefore, if a Proposer is unable to attend the interview on the selected date(s), its proposal may be eliminated from further discussion. The interview may consist of a short presentation by the Proposer after which the evaluation committee will ask questions related to the firm’s proposal and qualifications. At the conclusion of this interview process, the evaluation committee will provide a recommendation for award and the proposer being recommended will receive a notice of intent to award pending successful negotiations and contract preparation. Upon successful completion of this process, a recommendation will be made to the City Council, based on the contract, for their review and consent and unsuccessful firms will be notified.
After assessing the responses received, the City intends to select two (2) qualified firms: one (1) firm will be selected to be on monthly retainer and one (1) firm will be selected to assist on a project-by-project basis to enter into an initial two (2) year agreement with an optional one (1) year extension based on City needs and the qualifications of the responding firm.
D. Notification of Awards
The successful proposer will be required to execute a Contract agreement, see “Draft Contract”, with the City, which is subject to formal approval by the Fountain Valley City Council. The proposer will also be required to purchase a City Business License annually during the duration of the contract.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 0 City of Fountain Valley
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services
RFP No. 26-008
April 27, 2026
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page X
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................... X Transmittal Letter ............................................................................................................ 1 Company Experience ...................................................................................................... 2 Key Personnel/Past Performance ................................................................................... 9 Approach and Schedule ................................................................................................ 15 Understanding of Project Components .......................................................................... 19 Quality Control .............................................................................................................. 19 References .................................................................................................................... 20 Cost/Fee ..............................................................Submitted as a Separate Electronic File Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 1 Amanda Peñaloza, Management Analyst & Purchasing Officer, City of Fountain Valley 10200 Slater Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Dear Ms. Peñaloza,
Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services to the City of Fountain Valley (“City”). TPA is honored to serve as the City’s grant writer. Since 2024, TPA is proud to have worked in partnership with the City to secure $2,000,500 in competitive funding for critical community projects. In addition, TPA worked with the City in 2017 to secure $226,000, bringing our total successes for the City to $2,226,500.
Company Information:
Company Address: 1401 Dove Street, Suite 430, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Telephone Number: (949) 399-9050
Contact During Period of Proposal Evaluation:
Name & Title: Olivia Raymond, Sr. Business Development Associate Address: 1401 Dove Street, Suite 430, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Phone/Email: (949) 399-9050; [email protected]
Since our inception in 1998, TPA has earned the reputation as a Champion for Better Communities by providing the experience, resources, and relationships expected from a premier legislative advocacy and grant writing firm while also giving clients the unique brand of customer service they deserve: personal attention, maximum accessibility, and passion for their mission.
Over the years, TPA has been proud to secure more than $3.3 billion in competitive grants and appropriations and to provide strategic guidance that helps our clients achieve a positive return on investment. But beyond the numbers, what sets us apart is our dedication to helping communities like Fountain Valley turn bold ideas into reality, whether securing new funding, shaping grant program guidelines, or protecting vital resources that your residents rely on.
This organizational chart delineates the
roles and responsibilities of each
member of the team. Jake Leischner will
be the primary contact between TPA and
the City, City Manager, and key staff
Thank you for your interest in our firm
and your consideration of this proposal.
TPA will not utilize subcontractors for this
engagement. Please contact us if you
have any questions or need additional information.
We would be honored to continue to serve the City of Fountain Valley.
Yours truly,
Christopher Townsend (Authorized to Bind the Firm)
President
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 2
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
SUMMARY
TPA understands the City of Fountain Valley’s goal to secure external funding to support priority projects and programs while minimizing the use of local tax dollars. As a Southern California-based firm with an office in Newport Beach, TPA offers strong regional expertise and a deep understanding of the funding landscape impacting Orange County cities, allowing us to serve as a responsive extension of City staff. Over the past several years, TPA is proud to have worked in partnership with the City to secure $2,226,500 in competitive funding for critical community projects supporting public safety, active transportation, and civic engagement.
TPA is well positioned to support both the City’s monthly retainer and on-call grant needs, providing consistent service, meeting all deadlines, and responding to City requests within one to two business days in alignment with RFP expectations.
TPA's approach is focused on delivering measurable results to support key City priorities.
Looking ahead to the finalization of the Parks Master Plan, TPA is poised to assist in submitting applications to the Tennis Venue Services Program, the upcoming Statewide Park Development and Revitalization Program, and others to secure funding for projects identified in the Plan. Additionally, to support the Fountain Valley Fire Department, the ongoing construction of Fire Station 1, and the need to replace and acquire new fire apparatuses, TPA continues to monitor the pending release of FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and SCAQMD's Carl Moyer Program. FEMA's Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program is also monitored to potentially supplement funding for FVFD's new Ambulance and EMT services. TPA continues to research additional funding opportunities for other City initiatives - including the establishment of a Sister City in Japan, support for FVPD's Mobile Crisis Response Unit, upgrades to the Traffic Management System, and extended hours for the HOP ON Senior Transportation program, among others.
In line with the Scope of Work, TPA will provide end-to-end grant services, including funding research, coordination with City departments, grant strategy development, application preparation and submission, and post-award compliance and reporting. TPA will also maintain a grant pipeline and calendar, provide regular check-ins, and deliver monthly activity reports summarizing progress and outcomes.
Through this strategic and collaborative approach, TPA will continue to maximize funding opportunities and support the City’s priority projects and long-term objectives.
FIRM BACKGROUND
TPA is a state and federal grant writing and legislative advocacy firm that provides lobbying and funding services to public agencies and nonprofit organizations throughout California.
Founder/Owner/President: Christopher Townsend
Funding Success: Over $3.3 billion in state, federal, and local government grants as well as grants from nonprofit organizations and private companies Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 3
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Advocacy Success: Shepherded over 165 client-sponsored legislative items into law Longevity: 27 years (founded in 1998)
Number of Employees: 24
Number of Grant Writers and State and Federal Lobbyists: 19 Number of Offices: Five
o TPA Southern California Office, Newport Beach (Located less than 20 minutes from City Hall)
o TPA State Capitol Office, Sacramento
o TPA Federal Office, Washington, DC
o TPA Northern California Office, Oakland
o TPA Central California Office, Fresno
Types of Clients:
o City Governments
o County Governments
o Water and Sanitation Districts
o Transportation Districts
o K–12 School Districts
o Community College Districts
o Parks and Recreation Districts
o Fire Protection Districts
o Museums, Science Centers, and Cultural Facilities
Areas of Specialization:
o Local Governance (Cities, Counties, Special Districts) o Emergency Management and Hazard Mitigation
o Transportation Policy and Infrastructure
o Water and Sanitation Policy and Infrastructure
o Education Policy and Infrastructure
o Housing and Economic Development
o Parks and Community Facilities (Recreational, Cultural, Historical) o Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources
o Public Safety
o Budget and Finance
Ranking by Revenue Reported to the California Secretary of State:
o 6th of 491 Firms Registered for the 2025–26 Legislative Session TPA is ranked as a top 100 federal lobbying firm and represents more California public agencies in Washington, DC than any other advocacy firm in the nation.
Over 80% of clients receive more than $1 million in grant awards in their first full year of working with TPA
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 4
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
TPA’S SUCCESSES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY
TPA has a proven track record of delivering targeted funding results for the City of Fountain Valley, securing resources across federal, state, and private grant programs to support critical infrastructure and community initiatives. Our work reflects a strategic approach to identifying funding opportunities and developing competitive applications aligned with the City’s priorities. The following chart highlights a selection of successful grants secured on behalf of the City, totaling more than $2.2 million in funding.
PROJECT & PROGRAM AMOUNT YEAR
City of Fountain Valley: FY26 Federal Budget Earmark: Fire Station 1 $2,000,000 2026
City of Fountain Valley: Walmart Spark Good Grant: Shop with a Cop $500 2024
City of Fountain Valley: Active Transportation Program Grant $226,000 2017 Total Secured for the City of Fountain Valley: $2,226,500 PENDING FY 2027 FEDERAL EARMARKS FOR THE CITY
TPA drafted, submitted, completed supplemental information requests, and engaged in continued advocacy for the City to request five unique projects through the FY27 Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending process. The City of Fountain Valley now has three funding requests, totaling $5,694,000, pending subcommittee markup, scheduled for April 30 (CJS) and May 21 (THUD).
PROJECT AMOUNT ACCOUNT
Fire Station 1 Engine and Apparatus Acquisition $5,000,000 THUD Drones as First Responders Program $371,000 CJS
Advanced In-Car Camera System $323,000 CJS
Total Pending in FY27 Earmark Funding for the City of Fountain Valley: $5,694,000 FIRM’S GRANT WRITING EXPERIENCE
As the premier grant writing and advocacy firm for California municipalities, TPA has extensive experience in providing customized and effective grant writing services and has built a robust reputation by providing these services to more than 300 diverse cities throughout the state. With valuable state and federal agency relationships, an expansive understanding of countless funding programs in a wide range of policy areas, and the capacity to pursue any and all relevant opportunities, TPA has achieved over $3.3 billion in funding success on behalf of clients and has maintained a trusted client base by ensuring seamless and timely communication. The funding secured has been allocated toward projects that positively impact local communities, such as transportation infrastructure improvements, workforce development programs, regional public safety initiatives, and community beautification projects.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 5
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
This table provides an overview of our grant funding achievements on behalf of our clients from state, federal, and local government agencies as well as private and nonprofit grant programs. These amounts represent grants secured through a competitive and/or legislative process and do NOT include any funds awarded to clients via formulas or related forms of funding entitlements.
Policy Area State Funding Federal Funding All Sources
Water and Sanitation $134 Million $41.6 Million $175 Million Transportation $787 Million $390 Million $1,178 Million Education $262 Million $51.9 Million $313 Million
Parks and Recreation $312 Million $39 Million $351 Million Cultural Resources $140 Million $14.3 Million $154 Million Housing and Development $816 Million $48.5 Million $865 Million Public Safety $165 Million $115 Million $281 Million
TOTAL $2.6 Billion $701 Million $3.3 Billion
In line with this experience, the table below outlines programs TPA is either actively engaged on with City staff or that TPA is monitoring to support key City priorities.
Policy Area Program Timeline City Projects
Community
& Economic
Development
Small-Scale Water Efficiency
Projects
U.S. Department of the Interior
Application
Deadline:
June 2, 2026
Advanced Water
Metering Infrastructure
Upgrades
Health &
Safety
Carl Moyer Program
South Coast Air Quality
Management District
(SCAQMD)
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
Fire Apparatus
Acquisition
Assistance to Firefighters
Grant (AFG)
Federal Emergency
Management Administration
(FEMA)
TBD: Pending
Appropriations
Bill (DHS)
Fire Apparatus
Acquisition
Staffing for Adequate Fire and
Emergency Response Grants
(SAFER)
FEMA
TBD: Pending
Appropriations
Bill (DHS)
FVFD Hiring
Community &
Municipal
Planning
U.S.-Japan Global Impact
Grant
SisterCities International
Anticipated
Release:
Q4 2026
Sister City
Establishment &
Development
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 6
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Criminal
Justice
Technology &
Programs
Law Enforcement Mental
Health and Wellness Act
(LEMHWA)
U.S. Department of Justice
(DOJ)
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
FVPD Mental Health
Initiatives
Criminal
Justice
Technology &
Programs
Community Policing
Development (CPD)
DOJ
Anticipated
Release:
Summer 2026
FVPD Mobile Crisis
Response Unit
Recreation &
Community
Services
Urban Greening Grant
Program
California Natural Resources
Agency (CNRA)
Anticipated
Release:
May 2026
Parkway Tree Planting
Program
Tennis Venue Services
Program
U.S. Tennis Association
(USTA)
Ongoing
TBD; pending
finalization of Parks
Master Plan
Enhanced Mobility for Seniors
and Individuals with
Disabilities Grant Program
Orange County Transportation
Authority (OCTA)
Anticipated
Release:
August 2026
Extended Hours for
Fountain Valley’s HOP
ON Senior
Transportation
Program
Statewide Park Development
and Community Revitalization
Program (SPP)
California State Parks
Anticipated
Release:
Q3 2026
TBD, pending
finalization of Parks
Master Plan
MemorialCare Community
Benefit Grant
Orange Coast Medical Center
Anticipated
Release:
Q3 2026
Extended Hours for
Fountain Valley’s HOP
ON Senior
Transportation
Program
Transportation
& Transit
Systems
Active Transportation Program
(ATP)
California Transportation
Commission (CTC)
Application
Deadline:
June 22, 2026
Four-Intersection Safeto-School Traffic Signal
Project
Surface Transportation Block
Grant/Congestion Mitigation
Air Quality Grant
(STBG/CMAQ)
Southern California
Association of Governments
(SCAG)
Anticipated
Release:
Q4 2026
Traffic Management
System (TMS)
Update/Replacement
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 7
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
Information
Technology
State and Local Cybersecurity
Grant Program
FEMA/CalOES
Application
Submitted:
March 13, 2026
Comprehensive
Cybersecurity
Upgrades
Broadband Adoption Account
Program
California Advanced Services
Fund (CASF)
Application
Deadlines:
July 1, 2026
January 1, 2027
Broadband Expansion
& Digital Literacy
Accessibility
RELEVANT GRANT WRITING ACHIEVEMENTS
TPA has extensive experience helping cities like Fountain Valley secure competitive grant funding to advance key community priorities such as public safety, housing, infrastructure, and economic development. As a full-service city providing essential services to more than 56,000 residents, Fountain Valley continues to focus on enhancing the safety, livability, and resilience of its neighborhoods while fostering opportunities for growth and investment. TPA specializes in identifying and pursuing strategic funding opportunities that align with these goals, supporting projects that strengthen public safety operations, expand affordable housing options, improve local infrastructure, and promote economic vitality. These examples highlight recent grant awards TPA has secured on behalf of similar communities, demonstrating our proven ability to develop compelling applications, navigate complex funding programs, and deliver tangible results for our clients.
City of Palmdale: U.S. DOT RAISE Grant
Project
Description
TPA worked alongside the City of Palmdale to secure $23,000,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. This transformative funding will enable the City to construct a grade separation of Rancho Vista Boulevard at both Sierra Highway and the grade crossing of Metrolink and UP tracks. Elements of construction will include an overpass bridge, support columns and retaining walls, installation of paving, curbs, gutters, medians, sidewalks, streetlights, landscape and irrigation features, drainage facilities, and the relocation of utilities. This significant undertaking will improve access to daily needs such as jobs, education, health care, food, nature, and recreation. Utilizing lessons learned from previous cycles of funding, TPA drafted a compelling and competitive application and leveraged agency relationships to ensure success on behalf of the City.
City of Palm Desert: SCAG REAP 2.0 Regional Utilities Supporting Housing Grant Project
Description
TPA worked alongside the City of Palm Desert to secure $8,000,000 in Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 Regional Utilities Supporting Housing Pilot Program funding for extensive flood mitigation efforts and expand the city’s utility capacity to mitigate future severe flooding impacting future and existing housing developments along the I-10 corridor in an area that has experienced recent flood disasters. The project will support the development of 3,386 units currently approved and 1,663 units under review.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 8
COMPANY EXPERIENCE
City of Reedley: California DPR Statewide Parks Program Grant Project
Description
TPA worked on behalf of the City of Reedley to secure $4,049,992 in competitive grant funding through the California Department of Parks and Recreation's Statewide Parks Program in 2024. The award has enabled the City to upgrade and improve Camacho Park. TPA was responsible for submitting a complete and compelling project detailing the City's facilities improvement needs and the project's community benefit.
City of Murrieta: CalFIRE Wildfire Prevention Grant
Project
Description
On behalf of the City of Murrieta, TPA secured $2,653,344 in competitive grant funding administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFIRE) for hazardous fuel reduction efforts to mitigate fire risks and protect residents’ lives and property. This project will support Murrieta’s public safety initiatives and enhance the City’s responsiveness to emergencies. TPA was responsible for drafting and submitting the application, coordinating between stakeholders, and advocating for the funding to state legislators and agency officials.
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District: FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Project
Description
TPA partnered with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to secure $1,454,545 through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program for the acquisition of a new Heavy Rescue vehicle. TPA supported the District throughout the grant development process, including interpreting federal program guidelines, coordinating technical inputs, and crafting a competitive narrative aligned with FEMA priorities. The funded apparatus will enhance CCCFPD’s emergency response capabilities by improving its capacity to conduct complex technical rescues, respond to major incidents, and support regional mutual aid operations. This investment strengthens the District’s ability to protect life and property across its service area while ensuring firefighters are equipped with modern, reliable resources to safely perform critical operations.
City of Buena Park: California DPR Statewide Parks Program Grant Project
Description
TPA worked on behalf of the City of Buena Park to secure more than $3,190,543 in grant funding through the Statewide Parks Grant Program administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The funding will go towards improvements and upgrades to the City’s Whitaker School Park to ensure the facilities are inclusive and accessible to all residents, families, and children. TPA was integral in the development and submission of the grant narrative and application, as well as in postsubmittal advocacy efforts. These strategies ultimately ensured that the City was able to secure this significant funding and further its mission to serve its residents with high-quality parks and recreation centers.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 9
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
PROPOSED PROJECT TEAM
TPA proposes a dedicated team of five people to perform grant writing services for the City.
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Jake Leischner, Associate
Role: Project Manager; Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate
Role: Grant Writer & Funding Advocate
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered Federal Lobbyist Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst
Role: Grants Analyst
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Registered State & Federal Lobbyist The individual who will be principally responsible for working with the City will be Associate Jake Leischner. He will be directly supported by Grants Director Alex Gibbs, Senior Associates Anastasia Heaton and Sammi Maciel, and Grants Analyst Andy Ketsiri.
This dedicated “Grants Unit” will be supported by TPA’s 14 additional grant writers and advocates to ensure the City is able to take advantage of all funding avenues and secure significant funding success.
TPA uses a strategic approach to grant writing services that will be tailored to meet the specific needs of the City. To maximize success, TPA’s team of advocates and grant writers will utilize a collaborative approach and leverage an expansive collection of relationships in the state and federal governments, as well as a variety of policy expertise, including in transportation and infrastructure, water, education, parks and recreation, and local governance.
TPA will not utilize subcontractors for this engagement. TPA affirms the availability of key personnel to work on each task described in “General Cope of Work.” We also affirm that any changes to personnel assigned to this project shall be made in writing to the City.
The primary office from which TPA shall operate will be our Southern California office in Newport Beach.
Resumes for each member of the proposed project team can be found on the following pages.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 10
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director: Alex brings 15 years of experience in public policy and legislative advocacy to TPA. Alex has four years of experience working for the State Legislature, analyzing, researching, writing, and shepherding bills through the legislative process. Alex has also secured significant grant funding for clients throughout California.
Alex has expertise in the policy sectors of parks and recreation, natural resources, local governance, public safety, and transportation.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Grants Director 2014–Present During his tenure at TPA, Alex has secured millions in competitive grant funding across federal, state, and private programs for local public agencies, with expertise in parks and recreation, transportation, and public safety, and strong relationships with State Legislators and agency leadership. Key accomplishments include:
Secured over $17 million (Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Grant Program, CA Department of Health Care Services) for Kern County to establish a youth crisis walk-in center, expanding alternatives to incarceration, hospitalization, and homelessness.
Secured $7 million (Clean CA Local Grant Program, Caltrans) for the City of Oakland to advance the Courtland Creek Restoration and Mini Parks Beautification Projects.
Secured $6.5 million (Prop 68 Statewide Parks Program, Round 4) for Kern County’s South Kern Lamont Park Project, successfully funding park renovations despite program preference for new park development.
Secured $3 million (Urban Greening Program, CA Natural Resources Agency) for the Desert Recreation District to construct a new park and sports complex, with continued grant administration support.
Secured $868,000 (Active Transportation Program, Caltrans) for the City of South San Francisco’s Linden and Spruce Avenue Traffic Calming Project, improving pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Secured $750,000 (Land and Water Conservation Fund) for the City of Imperial to develop a 300+ acre regional park and equestrian center, including ongoing compliance support.
California State Senate
Legislative Aide 2012–2014
University of San Francisco, CA Bachelor of Arts, Politics 2011 San Diego State University
Professional Grant Writing Certification 2023
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 11
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Jake Leischner, Associate: Jake brings a variety of experience and knowledge to TPA, including extensive experience in the writing and editing of proposals. Jake has grant writing experience in areas such as economic and community development, parks and recreation, cultural resources, and natural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Associate 2024–Present
Since joining TPA, Jake has worked with clients to develop their funding proposals and secure competitive grant funding on projects. He has also worked to identify strategic funding resources that ensure his clients’ visions are transformed into reality. Some of his work includes:
Secured $5.05 million (NTIA Digital Equity Program) for the City of Moreno Valley to expand broadband access, improve digital literacy, and reduce barriers for underserved communities.
Secured $750,000 across three awards (Cal OES State and Local Cybersecurity Program) for municipal clients to enhance their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats.
Secured $301,440 (CA DOJ Tobacco Grant Program) for the City of Orange to support code enforcement efforts and strengthen public health protections.
Secured $1 million (LA County Measure A) for the City of Monterey Park to advance the Garvey Ranch Park Trail System Planning Project and Barnes Park Pool design.
Secured over $5.3 million through the FY 2026 federal earmark process for infrastructure, public safety, and community improvement projects.
Secured $122,000 (Office of Traffic Safety) for the City of La Verne to support extrication equipment and DUI enforcement programs.
Secured $11,623 (Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program) for the City of Lemoore to support DUI checkpoint operations and public safety efforts.
Experience securing funding from FEMA, Cal OES, NTIA, USDOT, and FHWA for projects related to cybersecurity, digital equity, infrastructure, and community development.
Proactively identifies funding opportunities by monitoring agency websites, attending grant webinars, and leveraging relationships, while advising clients on requirements, timelines, and best practices.
Claremont McKenna College
Bachelor of Arts, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics 2021 Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 12
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate: Anastasia brings a variety of experience and knowledge to TPA, including six years of experience in public cultural and historical resources. Anastasia has grant writing experience in areas such as water, parks and recreation, cultural resources, and natural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Senior Associate 2021–Present Since joining TPA, Anastasia has secured competitive federal, state, and regional grant funding for local agencies and built strong relationships with key funding agencies. Select accomplishments include:
Secured $23 million (USDOT RAISE) for the City of Palmdale for a railroad grade separation project improving safety and mobility.
Secured $12.1 million (SCAG REAP 2.0), including $8 million for housing infrastructure and $4.1 million for a housing loan fund in Murrieta.
Secured $6 million (State Budget) for the City of Agoura Hills Linear Park project.
Secured $2.3 million (CA Department of Water Resources) for drought relief projects in Kern and Marin Counties.
Secured $1 million (LA County Measure A) for park and recreation improvements in the City of Palmdale.
Secured $4.1 million (Building Forward Library Program) for statewide library infrastructure improvements.
Secured $2.4 million (EDA) for the Murrieta Innovation Center supporting economic development.
Secured $750,000 (Outdoor Equity Grants Program) for outdoor education programs in Merced Union High School District.
Secured $320,000 (USDOT SS4A) for the City of La Habra Safe Routes to Schools Plan.
Secured $230,000 (CPUC Broadband) for digital access improvements in the City of Palm Springs.
Secured $8,600 (LA County Arts Commission) for youth arts programming in the City of Palmdale.
Westmont College, Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Arts, History 2021
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 13
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate: Sammi brings eight years of federal legislative, funding, and public policy experience. Sammi has experience managing legislative activity, including bill analysis, research, and drafting, particularly for federal funding opportunities. Sammi has expertise in several policy sectors, including local governance, transportation, broadband, energy, and cultural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Senior Associate 2021–Present
Since joining TPA, Sammi has kept clients informed of significant actions and pertinent developments in the federal government and strategizes ways in which to influence and enact changes in Washington, DC that have concrete results for clients. Some of Sammi’s accomplishments include:
Leads TPA’s federal appropriations efforts, securing $97.5 million for 97 projects in FY 2026 through strategic advocacy and strong Congressional relationships.
Maintains key relationships with USDOT, DOE, and EPA, guiding clients through funding opportunities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.
Secured $2 million (Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Half Moon Bay’s Highway 1 Frenchman Creek intersection and bike/pedestrian improvements.
Secured $2 million ((Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Pleasanton to rehabilitate a PFAS-impacted drinking water well.
Secured $2 million (Federal Community Project Funding) for the City of Brea to modernize Arovista Park, including an all-accessible playground.
Secured $800,000 (Federal Community Project Funding) for the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority to improve ADA accessibility across its trail system.
U.S. Senate, Office of Senator Kamala Harris (CA)
Field Representative 2019–2021
Sammi represented a 30-county region on behalf of Senator Harris, attending events, hosting meetings, and facilitating outreach to constituents. She tracked key issues, facilitated rapid response, and built an extensive network of relationships with local elected officials and advocacy groups within her 30-county region. Additionally, Sammi drafted letters of support for her region addressed to numerous federal agencies, requesting funding for key projects.
U.S. Senate, Office of Senator Dianne Feinstein (CA)
Legislative Intern Summer of 2017
Dominican University of California
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science 2017
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 14
KEY PERSONNEL / PAST PERFORMANCE
Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst: Andy brings strong experience in research, policy analysis, writing, and program coordination, with a background spanning public policy, intergovernmental affairs, and higher education. She has supported complex research initiatives, managed large-scale programs, and produced clear, persuasive written materials for diverse audiences. Andy’s expertise includes grant research and analysis, policy and program evaluation, stakeholder coordination, data synthesis, and technical writing.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Grants Analyst 2025–Present
Andy supports TPA clients by conducting grant research, developing funding analyses, and assisting with the preparation of competitive grant applications across state and federal programs. Her academic training and professional experience equip her with strong analytical rigor, attention to detail, and the ability to translate complex program requirements into actionable guidance for local government clients. Andy’s work includes:
Conducts comprehensive research on state and federal grant programs, eligibility criteria, and agency priorities to identify funding opportunities aligned with client projects.
Prepares clear and concise grant opportunity summaries, matrices, and eligibility analyses to support client decision-making and strategic planning.
Assists with the development of grant narratives, supporting documentation, and application materials, ensuring compliance with agency guidelines and deadlines.
Tracks federal and state funding cycles, Notices of Funding Opportunity, and agency announcements to keep clients informed of emerging opportunities.
Collaborates with TPA’s advocacy and grants teams to support client strategies, compile data, and develop written materials that strengthen funding competitiveness.
The White House
Intern, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs 2019
Andy supported intergovernmental coordination efforts by conducting research, drafting reports, and analyzing policy initiatives to support collaboration between federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. This role provided foundational exposure to federal agencies, intergovernmental processes, and public policy development.
Columbia University
Master of Arts, History and Literature 2024
University of California, Irvine
Bachelor of Arts, History and Political Science 2021
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 15
APPROACH AND SCHEDULE
TPA will utilize the following strategic and comprehensive approach to provide grant writing services to the City:
Conduct Detailed Orientation: TPA will utilize a continuation of our comprehensive onboarding process that includes extensive meetings with various relevant members of City leadership and key City departments to help develop a strategic plan that is carefully tailored to satisfy the needs of the City and is designed for maximum success in the current political climate and funding environment.
Craft Strategic Funding Plan: Utilizing the information gathered during the onboarding process, TPA will coordinate with the City to develop a proactive and comprehensive strategic funding plan that serves the needs of the City’s priorities.
The plan will do more than simply identify City projects; it will outline and prioritize multiple funding options for each project and develop a specific plan of work tailored for each project. It will also identify key “strings attached” to help assess the cost/benefit ratio for each grant opportunity.
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding Opportunities: TPA will utilize listserve subscription programs, funding workshops, agency canvassing, and other networking tactics to ensure every potential opportunity is identified and reviewed for relevance with the City’s projects. TPA will then share these opportunities with the City for further assessment and determination if a grant application is warranted. The City will also receive a grant matrix of funding programs that is updated regularly as new opportunities arise.
Community Outreach: TPA will assist the City with community outreach required for grant applications by ensuring the City is aware of specific requirements, helping develop materials that capture all elements required by the grant, and compiling the outreach data for inclusion in the application.
Grant Application Development and Submittal: TPA will develop, draft, submit, and follow up on each City grant application through the following process:
o Establishment of Clear Accountabilities: TPA will coordinate with the City to ensure the assignment of responsibilities and tasks are made clear so that confusion and inefficiency are avoided, and the City is burdened as little as possible while TPA pursues a grant opportunity. o Provide Overview of Full Application Requirements: For each grant application, TPA will provide the City with a detailed overview of the requirements for the grant program and corresponding application to ensure that the program is a strong fit for the City’s project. This will include:
Application timeline
Eligible project types
Funding availability and award maximums and minimums
List of application components, including proposal questions and any required attachments
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 16
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
o Assemble Project Background and Details: TPA will conduct a detailed informational interview with City staff most involved with each project to gain a full understanding of the project background and scope details necessary for developing the grant proposal and addressing all application questions. o Coordinate Technical Project Details: For technical application components such as site plans, detailed cost estimates, project timelines, engineering plans, and cost-benefit analyses, TPA will coordinate with City staff to compile all necessary attachments and ensure consistency across all elements of the application.
o Draft Written Proposal: TPA will fully draft all narrative components of the application and, when applicable, will indicate where additional input or project detail from the City could be provided during the proposal review process. o Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal: Well ahead of the application deadline, TPA will provide the City with a full draft for review and feedback.
TPA will incorporate any additional details or revisions provided during this process to finalize the grant application and will obtain City approval for the final version of the application before submission.
o Submit Completed Application: TPA will ensure that applications are submitted before the deadline, whether the submission is electronic or through hard copies, in accordance with submission instructions for each individual program. For hard copy submissions, TPA will print and package applications according to submission instructions and will ship applications through a reliable courier service such as FedEx to provide the City with tracking and delivery confirmation for the application. TPA will also obtain a receipt for proof of submission and provide the City with a final copy of all submitted application documents.
o Funding Advocacy: Throughout the grant application process TPA will leverage relationships with relevant officials and program officers in various state and federal funding agencies to ensure that City grant applications are aligned with the goals of the specific grant program and that the applications are well-crafted and well-positioned for funding.
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy: TPA will frequently contact legislators and agency officials to follow up on the status of a grant application and promote its need and urgency. This will include drafting letters of support after grant submissions and distributing them to legislators for their consideration. In addition, TPA will work with legislators to reach out to individual granting agencies to provide background on the City’s projects and convey their support for those projects.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 17
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance: TPA will also assist, as needed, with post-award administration and compliance for all grant applications submitted by TPA on behalf of the City. This assistance will include interacting with granting agencies on behalf of the City, providing support for the drafting and submission of required reports and evaluations, and other tasks related to the successful monitoring of and compliance with the program requirements.
Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy: TPA has a track record of success with post-award grant administration and retention. TPA has worked on behalf of clients who, due to unforeseen circumstances, have needed to request an extension of the grant performance period to accomplish project deliverables. TPA is prepared to engage in the legislative process and work with legislators to get bills passed that would allow for the City to retain its grant funding after the performance period would have otherwise ended. Additionally, TPA is prepared to work directly with the City and agencies to secure scope of work changes to already awarded projects to ensure the City will not have to return any hard-won grant funding.
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications: Despite all best efforts, some grant applications are not selected for funding. When grant applications are unsuccessful, TPA will work with the relevant state and federal funding agencies to set up in-person or telephone debriefing sessions to discuss the grant applications and how to best revise the grant applications for the next funding round to ensure success.
Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process:
TPA will monitor the release of new federal guidance for each fiscal year, identify eligible City projects by subcommittee, and draft competitive applications to submit for federal funding. Additionally, TPA will engage directly with Congressional and Senate office and appropriations staff to advocate for the inclusion of the City’s requests in the federal appropriations bills.
Provide Progress Reports: TPA will confer regularly with the City on our activities.
TPA will provide timely electronic monthly reports on the status of all funding activity, such as current funding opportunities, current applications, submitted applications, and post-grant submittal advocacy. In addition to written reports, TPA will be available to the City for conference calls, in-person briefings, and meetings.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
TPA will utilize the following project schedule for this engagement:
TASK TIMELINE
Conduct Detailed Orientation Contract Start
Craft Strategic Funding Plan Contract Start/Annually
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding Opportunities Ongoing Grant Application Development and Submittal Ongoing/As Needed Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Ongoing/As Needed Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 18
APPROACH & SCHEDULE
The information below provides more in-depth details on TPA’s anticipated schedule and specific task timelines for the grant application process:
TPA identifies grant opportunities based on priority projects provided by the City during onboarding sessions. TPA will provide monthly, or otherwise regular updates, to staff on upcoming and ongoing grant applications that have the potential to align with City projects. (Ongoing throughout the term of the contract) Once a grant application is identified, TPA will meet with the project staff to gather the initial project details and begin an application. As soon as an application is identified as a “go,” TPA will provide a comprehensive grant checklist detailing what is required for the application and any additional forms, logins, or completion items required from City staff.
(Typically, a 4-8 week process, flexible given deadline restrictions or staff capacity) TPA will provide a comprehensive grant application draft well in advance of the grant submission deadline, with final edits and approval required from City staff. (2-4 weeks in advance of grant deadline)
Once final approval is obtained from City staff, TPA will submit and upload all grant applications well in advance of the application deadline. (Within 1 week of application deadline)
TPA will conduct comprehensive grant follow-up between application submittal and grant award announcement and will provide status updates to City staff. (Typically, a 3-8 month review period, flexible to each individual grant program) If a grant application is successful, TPA will ensure City staff is connected with the agency for follow-up grant award procedures. If unsuccessful, TPA will conduct comprehensive debrief sessions to best position the City for application resubmittal in future funding cycles.
(Ongoing comprehensive follow-up and post-grant award announcement) Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Ongoing/As Needed Assemble Project Background and Details Ongoing/As Needed Coordinate Technical Project Details Ongoing/As Needed
Draft Written Proposal Ongoing/As Needed
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Ongoing/As Needed Submit Completed Application Ongoing/As Needed
Funding Advocacy As Needed
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy As Needed
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance As Needed Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy As Needed Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications As Needed Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process Annually
Provide Progress Reports Monthly/As Requested
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 19
UNDERSTANDING OF PROJECT COMPONENTS / QUALITY CONTROL
INVOLVEMENT OF CITY STAFF
TPA is committed to maximizing return on investment for the City of Fountain Valley while minimizing demands on City staff. Acting as an extension of staff, TPA will take the lead on researching funding opportunities, compiling application materials, coordinating documentation, and managing submission timelines. While City staff will provide technical project details, budget information, and other necessary inputs, TPA will significantly reduce administrative burden by managing the day-to-day grant development process.
TPA’s team-based approach allows multiple grant professionals to pursue a broad range of funding opportunities simultaneously, ensuring that the City does not miss timesensitive or competitive funding programs. This proactive and comprehensive strategy enables TPA to pursue federal, state, regional, and private funding sources concurrently, maximizing funding potential while minimizing staff workload. Through this collaborative model, TPA enables City staff to remain focused on core responsibilities while still advancing priority projects and achieving measurable funding outcomes.
FIRM’S STRENGTHS
TPA’s integrated team of experienced grant writers and registered lobbyists provides a unique, results-driven approach designed to maximize return on investment for clients.
Over 80% of TPA clients receive more than $1 million in grant awards within their first full year of working with the firm, reflecting TPA’s proactive strategy to pursue all viable funding opportunities and advocate for client priorities at every stage of the process.
Unlike traditional grant-writing firms, TPA provides full-service funding advocacy that extends beyond application development. TPA actively engages with funding agencies, legislative offices, and decision-makers before, during, and after application submittal to strengthen competitiveness and increase the likelihood of award. This approach includes pursuing competitive grants, formula funding, and congressional earmarks, ensuring that all potential funding avenues are explored.
Since our founding, TPA has supported more than 300 public agencies throughout California, with extensive experience working with cities across Southern California. This experience, combined with TPA’s proactive pursuit of opportunities and strong advocacy strategy, enables the firm to consistently secure significant funding and deliver measurable results for clients while offsetting limited staff capacity.
TPA is exceptionally proud of the positive impacts we have had across communities in California. From securing critical infrastructure grants to advancing regionally significant projects, our work reflects a deep commitment to helping public agencies turn their priorities into reality.
To see examples of the funding we’ve helped secure on behalf of cities, counties, and other public agencies, we invite you to explore our Interactive Funding Map. This dynamic tool highlights the breadth of our work and the real-world outcomes TPA has delivered across the state.
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 20
REFERENCES
1. CITY OF MONTEREY PARK
Contact Name/Title: Shawn Igoe, Director of Public Works Phone Number/Email: 626-307-1323; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $6,150,373 secured from March 1, 2023 to present Total ROI: 2,177% - Annualized ROI: 183.5%
2. CITY OF STANTON
Contact Name/Title: Hannah Shin-Heydorn, City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-890-4277; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $8,775,210 secured from April 11, 2017 to present Total ROI: 1,835% - Annualized ROI: 39%
3. CITY OF ORANGE
Contact Name/Title: Jack Morgan, Deputy City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-744-2222; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Jake Leischner and Alex Gibbs
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $6,509,940 secured from October 26, 2022 to present Total ROI: 1,622% - Annualized ROI: 126%
4. CITY OF SAN LEANDRO
Contact Name/Title: Eric Engelbart, Deputy City Manager Phone Number/Email: 510-577-3389; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Alex Gibbs
Project Description: TPA provides state legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $11,696,467 secured from February 18, 2014 to present Total ROI: 1,525% - Annualized ROI: 26%
5. CITY OF BUENA PARK
Contact Name/Title: Aaron France, City Manager
Phone Number/Email: 714-562-3550; [email protected] Key TPA Personnel: Anastasia Heaton and Sammi Maciel
Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services to the City.
Return on Investment: $32,678,337 secured from July 1, 2009 to present Total ROI: 1,923% - Annualized ROI: 20%
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 0 City of Fountain Valley
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services
RFP No. 26-008
April 27, 2026
Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 21
COST / FEE
OPTION I: ALL-INCLUSIVE RETAINER:
TPA structures our agreements to provide maximum flexibility and minimize risk for our clients.
All contracts include a no-fault, 30-day termination clause, allowing either party to terminate the agreement for any reason with 30 days written notice. This approach ensures that agencies retain full control and can move forward with confidence, knowing they are not locked into a long-term commitment. Our goal is to earn your continued partnership through performance, responsiveness, and results, not contractual obligation.
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES MONTHLY FEE
Grant Writing Services
Years 1-2: $6,000*
Option Year 3: $7,000*
Option Year 4: $8,000*
Option Year 5: $8,500*
Option Year 6: $9,000*
Conduct Detailed Orientation Included
Craft Strategic Funding Plan Included
Identify, Research, and Monitor Grant Funding
Opportunities Included
Community Outreach Included
Grant Application Development and Submittal Included
Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Included
Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Included Assemble Project Background and Details Included
Coordinate Technical Project Details Included
Draft Written Proposal Included
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Included
Submit Completed Application Included
Funding Advocacy Included
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy Included
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance Included Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy Included
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications Included Lead Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending Process Included
Provide Progress Reports Included
*The monthly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses.
ANNUAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT FOR CONTRACT YEARS 1 AND 2: $72,000 Proposal for Grant Writing Consultant Services | City of Fountain Valley Page 22
COST / FEE
OPTION II: PROJECT BASED FEES:
OPTION III: HOURLY RATES OF KEY PERSONNEL:
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES PROJECT FEE
Grant Writing Services $5,000-$30,000**
Conduct Detailed Orientation Included
Grant Application Development and Submittal Included
Establishment of Clear Accountabilities Included
Provide Overview of Full Applications Requirements Included Assemble Project Background and Details Included
Coordinate Technical Project Details Included
Draft Written Proposal Included
Incorporate Feedback to Finalize Proposal Included
Submit Completed Application Included
Funding Advocacy Included
Post-Grant Submittal Advocacy Included
Post-Award Grant Administration and Compliance Included Post-Award Services—Above and Beyond Advocacy Included
Comprehensive Follow-Up on Unsuccessful Applications Included Provide Progress Reports Included
*The project fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses. *The project fee is determined by grant program requirements and length of project.
NAME & TITLE HOURLY FEE
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director $275*
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate $250*
Sammi Maciel, Senior Associate $250*
Jake Leischner, Associate $225*
Andy Ketsiri, Grants Analyst $200*
*The hourly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses.
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST
To: Honorable Mayor and Agenda Date: July 14, 2026
Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Project No. 27002; Residential Roadway Rehabilitation Project (City Quadrant B5 and B6)
1) Accept the DMS Consultants, Inc. Fee Proposal and Authorize Staff to Issue a Purchase Order for the Design of the Residential Roadway Rehabilitation Project (City Quadrant B5 and B6), Project No. 27002 in the amount not-toexceed $101,500. _________________________________________________________________________________________ Three-Year Strategic Goals Cultivate a welcoming culture and safe environment that makes our community “A Nice Place to Live.”
Ensure long-term fiscal stability by evaluating processes, and attract and retain revenue producing businesses/opportunities.
Attract and retain quality staff through best practices and trends.
Maintain, build, plan for, and modernize infrastructure to support the growth and future needs of the City.
Not applicable.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Staff recommends City Council accept the fee proposal and authorize Staff to issue a Purchase Order to DMS Consultants, Inc. for the design of the Residential Roadway Rehabilitation Project (City Quadrant B5 and B6), Project No. 27002 in the amount not-to-exceed $101,500.
DMS Consultants, Inc. has an active consultant services contract as one of the City’s prequalified on-call design consultants. However, this item is brought before the City Council for consideration and approval, as the proposed cost exceeds $100,000.
The project design is funded by the Gas Tax Fund. There is adequate funding within the FY2026/2027 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
The City owns and maintains 33 residential street quadrants that are regularly used by the City’s residents and visitors for commuting purposes. To maintain this network, the City conducts routine residential roadway rehabilitation projects annually.
DMS Consultants, Inc. - Residential Roadway Rehabilitation Project (City Quadrant B5 and B6) July 14, 2026