Report Prepared by: Mike Conway, Assistant to the City Manager
Title
SUBJECT: Contract for Advocacy Services With Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for Legislative Affairs Advocacy and Consulting Services
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving a contract with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for Legislative Affairs Advocacy and Consulting Services.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion approving the contract for legislative affairs advocacy and consulting services with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc., appropriating $20,000 from unappropriated, unreserved fund balance of the General Fund and authorizing the City Manager or Assistant City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff (identify specific findings and/or conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items (specific items to be addressed in the motion); or,
5. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2017-18 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
During the discussions for the 2017-18 Budget, the need for having legislative advocacy and consulting services was brought before the City Council. The services would provide additional access to elected officials, regulators, and other administrators who would be able to help staff advocate for legislation and actively seek grants that advance the Council's goals.
It has become apparent there is a need to intensify the City's role of advocating on its behalf and to seek additional funding to oppose legislation that is detrimental to the City, its residents, and its operations. There also is a desire to pursue funding opportunities through grants and legislation that will benefit the City's residents, programs, and services. The firm de...
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