Cities Index.
Agenda packet

Ojai City Council
January 27, 2026

Document
Agenda packet
Meeting
January 27, 2026
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Ojai City Council
Pages
21
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Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on d3n9y02raazwpg.cloudfront.net. That file is the official record.

Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: January 27, 2026
SUBJECT: Review Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) from HdL ECONSolutions and Consider Authorizing
the City Manager to Execute a Three-Year Agreement with HdL ECONSolutions for an Amount Not to Exceed $52,000

RECOMMENDATION
Review and approve the proposal submitted by HdL ECONSolutions to develop a comprehensive Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) for the City of Ojai (City), and authorize the City Manager to execute a three-year agreement with HdL ECONSolutions for an amount not to exceed $52,000 based on the proposal in a form approved by the City Attorney.

DISCUSSION
One of the Ojai City Council’s established nine goals is Diversifying Economy/Tourism Management, which has an approved tactic to support the goal of adopting an economic action plan. This agenda report is brought forward for City Council consideration to move this goal and supporting tactic forward.

The City of Ojai is at a critical juncture in its economic development. While the community continues to benefit from a strong tourism sector, a vibrant downtown, and a distinctive smalltown character, it also faces increasing pressure to diversify its economic base, support local businesses, and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. The impacts of regional economic shifts, rising costs, and evolving consumer behavior have underscored the need for a proactive, strategic approach to economic development.

To address these challenges and opportunities, the City is seeking to develop a three-year Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) that will serve as a roadmap for sustainable growth.

This plan will complement the City’s ongoing General Plan update and Economic Diversification Element by providing targeted, actionable strategies to attract investment, retain and support local businesses, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

HdL ECONSolutions, a division of HdL Companies, has submitted a proposal to prepare the EDAP tailored specifically to Ojai’s needs. The plan will be developed over a six-month period and will include a comprehensive economic landscape assessment, a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), policy and zoning recommendations, and a detailed implementation timeline with measurable outcomes. The process will be informed by robust community engagement, including surveys, focus groups, and public workshops. 182

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HdL is uniquely qualified to lead this effort. In addition to their extensive experience developing economic development strategies for cities across California, HdL already serves as a trusted partner to the City of Ojai. They currently manage the City’s Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) administration, business license processing, and cannabis regulatory compliance. This existing relationship gives HdL a deep understanding of the City’s economic structure, regulatory environment, and operational intricacies, insight that will allow them to hit the ground running and deliver a plan that is both realistic and implementable.

The proposed team includes Principal and Managing Director Barry Foster, who will serve as the project lead, along with senior advisors Ken Duran, Ruth Martinez, and Sandra Meyer, and Economic Development Specialist Lee Winkler. The team brings a strong combination of statewide expertise and regional familiarity; several members have direct ties to the Ojai Valley and a deep understanding of the local context. If approved, the HdL ECONSolutions project team looks forward to working closely with City staff, the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and individuals, and other relevant organizations/association as they develop the plan components.

This project offers significant value to the community. It will provide the City with a clear, actionable strategy to strengthen its economic foundation, support local entrepreneurs, and guide thoughtful development that aligns with Ojai’s values. The EDAP will be developed through a transparent and inclusive process, ensuring that the voices of residents, business owners, and stakeholders are reflected in the final recommendations.

If approved, staff will move forward with executing a professional services agreement and coordinating a project kick-off with HdL ECONSolutions. Community engagement activities will begin early in the process, and regular updates will be provided to the Council and the public. The final plan is expected to be completed within six months.

FISCAL IMPACT
The total cost of the Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) is not to exceed $52,000, broken down as follows:

Phase I: Research, engagement, plan development $42,000 (fixed fee) Phase II: Implementation support (as needed) $10,000 (hourly) Staff recommends the full project cost be funded from the City’s General Fund Reserves. The use of reserves for this purpose is justified by the anticipated return in terms of economic vitality, community benefit, and alignment with the City’s broader planning goals. The EDAP represents a strategic investment in Ojai’s long-term economic health and resilience. The plan will provide the City with a clear actionable roadmap to support local business, ultimately strengthening the City’s fiscal position over time.

CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 6 - Diversying Ecomony/Tourism Management

OPTIONS

1. Take no action;

2. Provide alternative direction to staff.

Prepared by: Norma Cervantes, Assistant to the City Manager 183
City of Ojai
Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan

C PLAN

BARRY FOSTER

DECEMBER 1, 2025
Submitted by:

HdL ECONSolutions
120 S. State College Drive, Suite 200
Brea, CA 92821
www.hdlcompanies.com
Contact Information:

Barry Foster, Principal and Managing
Director
714.879.5000
[email protected]
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 1 Table of Contents
Cover Letter .................................................................................................................................................... 2 Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................................ 3 Economic Development Action Plan Development ....................................................................................... 4 Project Objectives ........................................................................................................................................... 4 Consultant’s Qualifications ............................................................................................................................. 5 Methodology, Work Plan and Timeline .......................................................................................................... 5 Staffing ............................................................................................................................................................ 7 Proposed Budget with Itemized Costs and Hourly Rate ................................................................................. 8 Summary of Cost and Breakdown of Costs .................................................................................................... 9 References .................................................................................................................................................... 10 EXHIBIT A – HdL ECONSolutions Clients ....................................................................................................... 11 185
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 2 Cover Letter
City of Ojai
Ben Harvey, City Manager
Re: Economic Development Action Plan
We are pleased to submit this proposal to provide economic development consulting services for the City of Ojai. Our team at HdL ECONSolutions brings decades of expertise in developing comprehensive, datadriven economic development strategies. We recognize Ojai’s unique character—its history, vibrant downtown (Ojai Village), supportive peripheral commercial pockets, and strong tourism appeal—and we are excited about the opportunity to help shape a sustainable economic development strategy that enhances both quality of life and local prosperity.

Hinderliter de Llamas Associates (HdL) is a 42-year-old employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) consulting firm with corporate offices in Brea, California, and additional offices in California in Pleasanton and Fresno, as well as offices in Texas and North Carolina. HdL is a highly respected consulting firm specializing in sales tax, property tax, tax & fee administration, revenue analysis, economic development, and cannabis management.

HdL is pleased to submit this proposal to the City of Ojai to prepare an Economic Development Action Plan, Our team is well-equipped to contribute valuable insights and expertise for the Economic Development Action Plan. Drawing on our extensive experience in guiding actionable economic development strategies for various public sector entities, we understand the nuances and unique considerations involved in municipal planning and success in economic development.

Our approach is grounded in the latest industry knowledge, emphasizing market realities and identifying revenue opportunities essential for sustaining and enhancing the City’s tax base. With a proven track record, we are committed to delivering a comprehensive and integrated plan that aligns with the City of Ojai’s goals and ‘small town feel’, while fostering economic growth and supporting both new and existing businesses in Ojai. Please note that we tailor and customize every Economic Development Action Plan to fit to the community we are working with.

Your primary point of contact for this project will be Barry Foster, Principal and Managing Director of HdL’s ECONSolutions Division. Barry can be reached by phone at 951.233.0414 or email at [email protected].

Thank you for considering HdL Companies for this effort. We look forward to the opportunity to work with the City of Ojai to enhance its economic development initiatives.

Warm regards,
Andrew Nickerson, President / CEO, HdL Companies
120 S. State College Blvd., Suite 200
Brea, CA 92821 | www.hdlcompanies.com
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 3 Executive Summary
Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai
The City of Ojai stands at a pivotal moment to harness its unique character—historic charm, small town feel, unique downtown, and tourism appeal—to drive sustainable economic growth. HdL ECONSolutions proposes a comprehensive three-year Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) designed to manage growth, attract new investments, and support existing businesses while enhancing quality of life for residents. The Economic Development Action Plan will compliment and even expand what the City is doing with the Economic Diversification Element being done with the General Plan.

Our approach combines rigorous data analysis with community engagement to develop actionable, market-informed strategies. The process begins with an in-depth economic landscape assessment and a detailed market study, focusing on Ojai’s key sectors such as boutique retail, hospitality, tourism, and professional services. We will explore possibilities of leveraging economic development efforts with special events for the community, a business incubator, ecotourism and corporate retreats. Through focus group meetings and surveys, we will capture the perspectives of local business owners, residents, and tourism/hospitality interested parties to ensure that the plan reflects the City Council’s goals/tactics, as well as the community’s priorities.

A critical element of our methodology is the comprehensive SWOT analysis, which will identify Ojai’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). This analysis will underpin the strategic recommendations that are tailored to leverage local assets and address potential challenges. Our plan will outline clear, measurable goals, provide policy recommendations— including potential recommendations for zoning adjustments and incentive programs—and offer a structured implementation timeline that ensures coordinated execution.

The preparation of the EDAP will occur over a six-month period, with key milestones set for data collection, community engagement, plan drafting, review, and finalization. Our experienced team—led by Barry Foster, supported by senior advisors Ken Duran, Ruth Martinez (who lives in Burbank), and Sandra Meyer, and complemented by Economic Development Specialist Lee Winkler (who lives in Moorpark)—brings decades of expertise in economic development and strategic planning to this initiative. Both Ruth and Lee visit Ojai often HdL ECONSolutions is committed to delivering a transparent, data-driven action plan that not only charts a path for economic development success, but also positions Ojai as a premier destination for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Our proposal ensures that the City of Ojai can confidently navigate future challenges and seize new opportunities for sustainable growth. 187
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 4 Economic Development Action Plan Development
HdL ECONSolutions will develop over a 6-month period, a comprehensive three-year economic development action plan for Ojai using a meticulous and inclusive approach. This plan will serve as a strategic roadmap for a 3-year period, outlining clear goals and specific strategies to stimulate economic prosperity, attract new businesses, retain existing enterprises, and promote job creation. The process begins with a thorough analysis of the current economic landscape informed by detailed market studies and community engagement efforts to be accomplished within a 6- month period.

The team will engage in extensive consultations with city officials, key participants and community leaders to ensure the plan is tailored to Ojai’s unique needs and opportunities. By aligning these strategies with the city’s long-term vision, the action plan will set clear, measurable goals covering critical areas such as economic growth, business attraction and retention, job creation, and infrastructure development. Strategies may include policy reforms, incentive programs, marketing campaigns, and community development projects designed to create a vibrant economic environment.

To guarantee the plan’s effectiveness, HdL ECONSolutions will incorporate robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and regular reviews to adapt to evolving economic conditions and emerging opportunities. Additionally, the plan will provide detailed recommendations for policy changes, zoning adjustments, and streamlined development processes, along with a structured implementation timeline that outlines key phases, milestones, and responsible parties, ensuring smooth execution and coordination with relevant interested parties.

Project Objectives
This project is designed to drive sustainable economic growth in Ojai by combining rigorous analysis with active community participation over a 6-month development period. It aims to thoroughly assess the city's economic landscape, identify key market opportunities across diverse sectors, and gather valuable input from local business owners/managers. The outcome will be a detailed, three-year strategic roadmap featuring targeted policy recommendations and practical support measures to ensure effective implementation and measurable results.  Comprehensive Economic Analysis: Examine Ojai’s economic strengths and challenges by leveraging existing data and targeted research.
 Market Opportunity Identification: Assess potential for growth in sectors that include boutique retail, tourism, hospitality, and professional services. Evaluate opportunities to link Libby Bowl entertainment events with Downtown Ojai restaurants, shops and hotels. 188
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 5  Community Engagement: Host focus groups and meetings with relevant interested parties, including the Chamber of Commerce, along with surveys to ensure that the plan reflects local priorities.
 Strategic Action Plan Development: Formulate a detailed three-year roadmap, including policy recommendations and strategies for business support.  Implementation Support: Provide guidance for executing the plan, ensuring measurable outcomes that bolster the local economy.

Consultant’s Qualifications
HdL Companies, through its HdL ECONSolutions Division, brings significant experience and expertise in economic development consulting. Our firm has a proven track record with municipal economic development projects, including our recent work for the City of San Gabriel. Our team is highly experienced in data analysis, market studies, community outreach, and strategic planning. We understand that Ojai’s economic fabric—rooted in its historic downtown, smalltown feel, artisanal businesses, and tourism appeal—requires a nuanced approach that balances growth with community identity and quality of life to maintain Ojai’s, small town feel with world class amenities.

HdL ECONSolutions was recently engaged in economic development initiatives for the cities of El Monte (Economic Development Strategic Plan) and San Gabriel (Economic Development Action Plan), reinforcing our commitment to fostering local economic growth. Our expertise extends across 11 other Southern California cities, including Banning, Covina, Desert Hot Springs, Diamond Bar, Eastvale, Fountain Valley, Gardena, Indio, La Mirada, San Marino, and Upland, where we have successfully developed Economic Development Action Plans. Additionally, we did EDAP’s for six Northern California cities.

In 2023, HdL partnered with Streetsense to craft an Economic Development Strategic Plan for Palo Alto. Recently, we developed an Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP) for the City of San Gabriel and are finalizing an Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of El Monte, with Streetsense serving as a subcontractor. These projects highlight our ongoing efforts to deliver actionable strategies tailored to each city's unique economic landscape.

Methodology, Work Plan and Timeline
The proposed methodology for creating Ojai’s economic development plan over a 6-month period, integrates a comprehensive, data-driven approach with strong community involvement over the 6-month period. This work plan outlines key stages, starting with an in-depth analysis of the city’s economic landscape, followed by robust community engagement through workshops, surveys, and interviews. A detailed SWOT analysis will spotlight the city’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, setting the foundation for a targeted three-year strategic action plan. 189
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 6 This plan will incorporate policy recommendations and offer ongoing support for effective implementation, ensuring a measurable impact on Ojai's economic growth.

HdL ECONSolutons is committed to delivering a comprehensive Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai within a six-month timeframe. Our proposed methodology and work plan are designed to ensure thorough analysis, community engagement, and strategic planning, culminating in actionable recommendations that align with the city's goals.

Work Plan and Timeline (6 Months Period)
Month 1: Project Initiation and Data Collection
 Kick-off meeting with city officials and key interested parties to outline project objectives and timeline.
 Begin data collection from government databases, commercial databases, and HdL’s internal data sources.
 Conduct initial surveys and schedule interviews.

Month 2: Economic Analysis and Market Study
 Complete data analysis on key economic sectors, employment trends, and demographic profiles.
 Conduct detailed market study focusing on commercial corridors, industrial zones, and mixed-use developments.

Month 3: Community Engagement and SWOT Analysis
 Conduct focus group discussions and interviews with key interested parties.  Conduct SWOT analysis based on collected data and community feedback.

Month 4: Drafting Strategic Action Plan
 Develop draft of the three-year economic development action plan.  Include strategic recommendations for growth, investment, and business retention.  Provide initial policy recommendations and zoning changes.

Month 5: Review and Refinement
 Present draft action plan to city officials for review and feedback.  Refine the plan based on feedback from city officials. 190
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 7 Month 6: Finalization and Planning Implementation of the EDAP  Finalize the economic development action plan, incorporating all feedback and refinements.
 Develop detailed implementation plan with timelines, responsible parties, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
 Present final plan to city officials and prepare for formal adoption.

HdL Companies is committed to a collaborative and transparent process, ensuring that the Economic Development Action Plan for Ojai is grounded in robust analysis, community input, and strategic foresight. Our proven methodology and detailed work plan will ensure timely delivery of a plan that aligns with the city’s economic goals and objectives.

Staffing
HdL Companies is pleased to offer a highly skilled and experienced team for the development of the Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai. Our staff is well-versed in creating comprehensive economic development strategies and has a proven track record of success in similar projects.

Barry Foster, Principal/Managing Director
Barry Foster will serve as the main contact person and project manager for this initiative. With extensive experience in economic development and strategic planning, Barry will oversee all aspects of the project, ensuring that it is completed on time and to the highest standard.

Ken Duran, Sandra Meyer and Ruth Martinez, Senior Advisors Ken Duran and Ruth Martinez, our Senior Advisors, will serve as local contacts and manage the day-to-day details of the project. Their deep understanding of the Ojai Valley and their expertise in economic development will be invaluable in guiding the project to success. Sandra Meyer, who is based in the Bay Area, has significant planning experience and unique expertise with effective downtown environments from her over 34 years working in Walnut Creek, the last 12 years as the Community & Economic Development Director.

Lee Winkler, ED Specialist
Lee Winkler will serve as the ED Specialist/Analyst for our team, bringing his strong analytical skills and experience in data-driven economic analysis to the project. Lee will be responsible for gathering and interpreting the data that will inform our strategic recommendations.

Together, our team combines a wealth of experience, along some local knowledge, positioning us to deliver a robust and actionable Economic Development Action Plan for Ojai. 191
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 8 We are confident that our dedicated team and comprehensive approach will support Ojai’s economic development goals and drive sustainable growth for the community.

Proposed Budget with Itemize Costs and Hourly Rate
The proposed budget outlines a comprehensive, two-phased approach designed to deliver a robust economic development action plan for Ojai. Phase I itemized costs for essential activities including data collection and analysis, community engagement, SWOT analysis, strategic action plan development, and policy recommendations. Each component is clearly defined with deliverables and corresponding costs, ensuring a thorough examination of Ojai’s economic landscape and the development of targeted initiatives to spur growth. Phase II provides ongoing implementation support, offering guidance to city officials to monitor progress, evaluate outcomes, and adapt strategies as needed. Hourly rates and detailed cost breakdowns are included to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the project's execution.

PHASE I

1. Data Collection and Analysis - $ 9,000
 Economic Landscape Assessment: We will gather and analyze data on key economic sectors, employment trends, demographic profiles, and business climate indicators.

Sources will include government databases, commercial real estate databases like CoStar, HdL’s proprietary sales tax data, and local surveys.
 Deliverable: A comprehensive report detailing the current economic landscape of Ojai.
 Market Study: A detailed market study will identify opportunities for growth and investment within Ojai, focusing on commercial corridors, industrial zones, and mixed-use developments.
 Deliverable: A detailed market study report identifying opportunities for growth and investment.

2. Community Engagement - $ 10,000
o Public Workshop: Host a workshop to gather input from residents, business owners, and other interested parties.
 Deliverable: Summary reports from public workshop.
o Focus Group: Conduct focus group discussion with key community members to gain deeper insights.
 Deliverable: Detailed insights from various focus group discussions. 192
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 9 o Surveys and Interviews: Utilize online survey and conduct targeted interviews to collect broad community input.
 Deliverable: Comprehensive analysis of survey responses and interview findings.

3. SWOT Analysis - $ 5,000
 Conduct and deliver a comprehensive SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats affecting economic development in Ojai.

4. Strategic Action Plan Development - $14,000
 Develop a comprehensive three-year economic development action plan that includes clear goals, specific strategies, and initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth, attracting new businesses, retaining existing enterprises, and promoting job creation.  Deliverable: A detailed three-year Economic Development Action Plan.

5. Policy Recommendations - $ 4,000
 Provide recommendations for policy reforms, zoning changes, incentives, and other regulatory measures to support economic development objectives.  Suggest ways to streamline the development process and enhance the business environment.
 Deliverable: A report with recommendations for policy reforms, zoning changes, incentives, and other regulatory measures.

PHASE II

6. Implementation Support– Hourly and not to exceed $10,000  The HdL team can provide ongoing support and guidance to city officials and staff in implementing the action plan, monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and adapting strategies as needed.

Cost Proposal and Breakdown of Costs
 Phase I-Data Collection & Analysis $9,000
 Phase I-Community Engagement $10,000
 Phase I-SWOT Analysis $5,000
 Phase I Strategic Action Plan Development $14,000
 Phase I-Policy Recommendations $4,000
Total Phase I-$42,000 (fixed fee)
 Phase II- Implementation Support $10,000 (not-to-exceed) 193
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 10 Total Phase II-Not to exceed $10,000 (with hourly rates applying) Total Cost—Not-to-Exceed $52,000
References

CITY OF SAN GABRIEL
Samantha Tewasart, Community Development
Director
425 S. Mission Dr. San Gabriel CA 91766
626.308.2806
Email: [email protected]

CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
Omar Dadaboy, Community Development Director
10200 Slater Ave
Fountain Valley, CA 92780
714.593.4402
Email: [email protected]

CITY OF CLOVIS
Chad McCollum, ED, Housing & Communications
1033 Fifth Street, Clovis CA 993612
559.324.2436
Email: [email protected]

CITY OF PALO ALTO
Steve Guagliardo, Assistant to the City Manager
250 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
650.329.2280
Email: [email protected]
HdL Principal $250/hour
HdL Senior Advisor $190/hour
HdL Analyst $110/hour
Hourly Rates
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December 2025 Proposal for Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Ojai 11 EXHIBIT A – ECONSolutions Clients
HdL ECONSolutions has quickly become a premier partner providing economic development services for many California cities. Below is a sampling of HdL ECONSolutions clients:
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Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
Kathy Holman, Human Resources Manager
MEETING DATE: January 27, 2026
SUBJECT: Professional Services Agreement Amendment No. 2 with Municipal Resource Group, LLC

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 2 to Professional Services Agreement with Municipal Resource Group, LLC (“MRG”) to extend the contract term through December 31, 2026.

DISCUSSION
The City’s Human Resource function is fulfilled by one full time Human Resources and Risk Manager, along with part-time administrative and analytical assistance provided through a retired CalPERS annuitant. In order to ensure special projects are completed in a timely manner with the appropriate level of expertise, the City has contracted with Municipal Resource Group, LLC (MRG) since 2024 (see table below).

Effective March 8, 2024, the City Manager approved an original agreement with MRG for on-demand human resources services, with a not to exceed amount of $30,000. On March 11, 2025, City Council approved Amendment No. 1, increasing the not to exceed amount by $20,000 for a total not to exceed amount of $50,000. On October 14, 2025, City Council approved the carryover of appropriations from FY24-25, which included $40,000 in funding for the MRG Agreement. Staff is requesting Amendment No. 2 to extend the Professional Services Agreement through December 31, 2026, while maintaining the total not to exceed amount of $50,000. The requested Amendment No. 2 would have an effective date retroactive to July 1, 2025.

Date Amount Not to Exceed
Original Contract 3/8/2024 $30,000 $30,000
Amendment No 1 3/11/2025 $20,000 $50,000
Amendment No 2 1/27/2026 $0 $50,000
Total Not to Exceed Amount $50,000
Expenses 3/8/2024 – 1/15/2026 ($24,180)
Contract Award Remaining $25,820
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The initial contract and first amendment provided for a scope of services that include assisting with employee recruitment, classification analysis, policy review, revision of the City’s Employee Handbook, and other special human resources-related projects.

Extension of the contract will allow staff to continue working with MRG to complete ongoing projects, notably the review and revision of the Employee Handbook.

CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
N/A (See Explanation Below)
Approving Amendment No. 2 with MRG will allow the City to complete impactful tasks that are beneficial to both employees and City administration, including but not limited to the completion of a revised employee handbook, revised personnel policies, and other projects.

OPTIONS

1. Take no action;

2. Provide alternative direction to staff.

FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact is $25,820, the amount of the remaining contract award, and is fully funded within the adopted FY2025-26 budget.

Prepared by: Kathy Holman, Human Resources Manager

ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Original Agreement – MRG
B. Amendment 1 – MRG
C. Amendment 2 – MRG
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Professional Services Agreement
City of Ojai / Municipal Resource Group, LLC
Attachment C
AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Amendment No. 2 (“Amendment”) to Professional Services Agreement for On-Demand Human Resources Services (“Agreement”) is made retroactively effective to the 1st day of July, 2025, by and between the City of Ojai, a California municipal corporation (“City”) and Municipal Resource Group, LLC, a California corporation (“Consultant”). Except as expressly modified herein, all other terms of the Agreement, as amended shall remain in full force and effect.

This Amendment modifies the original Agreement between the City and the Consultant dated March 8, 2024, as subsequently amended by that certain Amendment No. 1 dated March 11, 2025, in the following fashion:

A. City and Consultant desire to amend the Agreement by modifying section 3.4 – Termination Date of the Agreement to read as follows:

3.4 Termination Date: December 31, 2026
TO EFFECTUATE THIS AGREEMENT, the parties have caused their duly authorized representatives to execute this Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement as of the last date indicated below:
“City” “Consultant”
City of Ojai Municipal Resource Group, LLC
By: By:

Ben Harvey, City Manager Mary Egan, CEO
Date: Date:

Attest:

By:

Weston Montgomery, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Date:

Approved as to form:

By:

Bethany A. Burgess, City Attorney
Date: __________________________
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