Title
A Presentation on the Federal Legislative Agenda (B)
This is a request for the City Commission to hear a presentation on federal legislative updates. **ESTIMATED STAFF PRESENTATION 20 MINUTES**
Explanation
The City has retained the services of Marilyn Berry Thompson, currently with the firm MWW Group, Inc., as a special lobbyist in Washington, D.C., in connection with matters concerning the City on behalf of its General Government and its Utility.
City of Gainesville’s Agreement for Professional Federal Lobbying Services will end on September 30, 2015. This role and the services provided have been extensively and regularly reviewed following their initiation in 1994.
The Lobbyist provides lobbying and advocacy services and monitors U.S. Congress on important legislative matters could affect the City in areas of housing, economic redevelopment, taxation, revenue distribution, transportation, environment, utility regulation, telecommunications, homeland security, and other areas.
A presentation will be provided by Marilyn Berry Thompson with selective highlights of over $70 million in federal relations outcomes and activities in five key areas: 1) Community Development and Parks; 2) Economic Development and Special Projects; 3) Housing and Homeless; 4) Criminal Justice; and 5) and Transportation.
Fiscal Note
There is no fiscal impact from this item.
Recommendation
The City Commission hear a presentation from Marilyn Berry Thompson on federal legislative updates that affect the City of Gainesville and provide policy direction on these issues.