the Community Development Department. His familiarity with city operations, policies, and priorities uniquely positions him to immediately provide adequate oversight and guidance. Interestingly, Mr. Morales grew up in Huntington Park and attended Middleton Elementary, Gage Middle School, and graduated from Huntington Park High School.
LEGAL REQUIREMENT
The City Attorney’s Office will review the agreement to ensure compliance with applicable state and local laws and City procurement requirements before execution.
FISCAL IMPACT/FINANCING
The total cost of the agreement for interim Community Development Director services will not exceed $100,000. Funding for this agreement is available within the existing appropriations in the Community Development Department’s Fiscal Year 2024–2025 budget. No additional appropriation from the General Fund is required.
Under the City’s adopted Purchasing Manual (2025), professional services contracts not exceeding $100,000 may be awarded through an informal process, subject to approval by the Director of Finance, and City Manager. The policy also allows for direct contracting without competitive solicitation under certain conditions, including:
• When the services require specialized expertise that limits open competition; • When the selected provider has prior experience with City operations, making them uniquely suited to perform the services efficiently and effectively; • When immediate action is necessary to maintain continuity of operations and prevent service disruptions or legal exposure.
The proposed agreement with Louis Morales satisfies these conditions. Mr. Morales' prior service with the City and his extensive municipal planning and housing experience position him to provide immediate and informed support during this transitional period.
CONCLUSION
Approval of the recommended action will ensure critical leadership coverage within the Community Development Department during operational needs while the City searches for a permanent Director.
Respectfully submitted,
RICARDO REYES
City Manager
AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR INTERIM COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SERVICES WITH LOUIS MORALES
April 7, 2025
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Professional Services Agreement – Louis Morales (To be finalized) B. Statement of Qualifications – Tiera West & Associates (Includes Louis Morales) ATTACHMENT "A"
ATTACHMENT "B"