Title
State Lobbying and Advocacy Services for the City of Gainesville and Gainesville Regional Utilities (B)
This item is to request renewal of the State lobbyist contract with William J. Peebles of Peebles and Smith, Inc.
Explanation
On December 2, 2012 the City retained the services of William J. Peebles of Peebles & Smith, Inc. as a state lobbyist in Tallahassee, FL. in connection with matters concerning the City on behalf of its General Government and its Utility. The first extension to this agreement was dated November 26, 2013. The current agreement to the contract for State of Florida lobbying and advocacy services will end on November 30, 2016.
The consultant provides lobbying and advocacy services and monitors important legislative matters that could affect the city in areas of housing, utilities, water projects, economic redevelopment, transportation, and other areas. The contract extension for the City of Gainesville's agreement for State of Florida Lobbying and Advocacy Services will start on December 1, 2016 and will end on September 30, 2017 in order to bring it in line with our fiscal calendar.
Fiscal Note
Consultant services not-to-exceed $25,000 for the City's General Government; and a maximum amount not-to-exceed $25,000 for Gainesville Regional Utilities, for a combined maximum amount not to exceed $50,000.
Recommendation
The City Commission renew the contract with Peebles and Smith, Inc. for FY 2016-17.
Alternate Recommendation
The City Commission direct staff to advertise for a new state lobbyist for the City.