DATE:
June 20, 2023
TO:
Mayor and Council Members
FROM:
Rachel Molina, City Manager
BY:
Tammy Pelayes, Assistant to the City Manager
Lesa Byars, Management Analyst
SUBJECT:
State and Federal Legislative Advocacy Services
RECOMMENDED ACTION
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to enter into a one-year Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Townsend Public Affairs, in the not-to-exceed amount of $84,000 for State and Federal Legislative Advocacy Services.
BACKGROUND
The City Manager's office has contracted with the state legislative advocacy firm Townsend Public Affairs since October 2013, to represent the City's interests effectively at the state level. Townsend Public Affairs has demonstrated satisfactory performance during the past 10 years, providing valuable insights, monitoring legislative activities, and advocating for the city's priorities. However, due to evolving circumstances and emerging needs, it has become necessary to update the existing contract and explore the inclusion of federal advocacy services.
ISSUES/ANALYSIS
On May 2, 2023, staff released RFQ 2022-23-001 for State Legislative Advocacy Services in accordance with City purchasing guidelines. Of the eighteen (18) firms in receipt of RFQ 2022-23-001, Townsend Public Affairs was the only firm that submitted a response by the May 23, 2023, deadline. After a brief discussion of merits, staff unanimously agreed that Townsend Public Affairs is best suited to continue addressing the City’s needs.
On May 31, 2023, staff contacted Townsend Public Affairs to inform them of the City’s intent to contract with their firm. Staff has reviewed the tasks outlined in the Scope of Services and believes it to be thorough and concise and the monthly fee commensurate with the requisite responsibilities.
Based on the above, if it is Council’s desire to move forward with a Consultant for both state and federal legislative advocacy services, then staff recommends entering into a contract for such services with Townsend Public Affairs.
FISCAL IMPACT
Should Council approve the contract, the monthly fee to contract both state and federal legislative advocacy services with Townsend Public Affairs is $7,000 per month or $84,000 for FY 2023-24. Since federal advocacy services were not included in the FY 2023-24 Budget, an additional appropriation authority of $14,000 will be requested during the first quarter review.
ALTERNATIVE(S)
Provide alternative direction to staff
ATTACHMENT(S)
None.
City of Hesperia STAFF REPORT City of Hesperia STAFF REPORT City of Hesperia
STAFF REPORT
City of Hesperia
STAFF REPORT
Staff Report to the Mayor and Council Members
State and Federal Legislative Advocacy Services
June 20, 2023