Title
Communication Consulting and Graphic Design Services Agreement (NB)
Explanation
For the past thirteen years, GRU has been engaged in a strategic alliance agreement with PRO INK Corporation (PRO INK) for communication consulting and graphic design services. The strategic alliance allows GRU staff to work collaboratively with a business that possesses a unique understanding of the Utility's needs. Together, staff is able to determine the best approach to communicating important or potentially sensitive information to internal or external groups in a cost-effective manner. In addition to providing these services to the Utility, General Government has also been able to use this agreement for its requirements as needed.
PRO INK's professional staff offers a wide range of experience, knowledge and expertise in the communications consulting and graphic design field and is the only known local business that is capable of providing both services through one agency. The creative services and projects performed by PRO INK have consistently been of high quality and, in cost comparison for similar services, offer competitive rates. Some of the successful projects with which PRO INK has assisted the Utility and General Government include: 1) designing, planning and producing the 2008 Climate Change Report for the City of Gainesville; 2) researching and developing messaging (i.e. rising fuel prices); 3) incorporating employee feedback and producing a redesigned employee newsletter; 4) designing and periodically updating of the Consumer Confidence Report; and 5) producing GRU's national award-winning annual report.
Because many projects require rapid turn-around to meet urgent deadlines, it is crucial to have a local business perform these services. In addition to its local vendor standing, PRO INK is also a small, woman-owned business.
Based on the continually changing environment in the utility industry, staff believes that continuing its strategic alliance with PRO INK will allow the Utility to maintain continuity in its communications efforts with continued superior results.
Recommendations
The City Commission: 1) authorize the General Manager, or his designee, to negotiate a strategic alliance agreement with PRO INK Corporation for as-needed communication consulting and graphic design services for a three-year term subject to the approval of the City Attorney as to form and legality; and 2) approve the issuance of purchase orders to PRO INK Corporation in amounts not to exceed $250,000 per year subject to the final appropriation of funds for these services in each fiscal year of the agreement.
Fiscal Note
Funds are available in the FY 2009 and will be requested in subsequent year budgets.
Drafter
Prepared by Kathy E. Viehe, AGM, Customer Support Services
Submitted by Robert E. Hunzinger, General Manager