Title
State Lobbying and Advocacy Services (B)
This is a request for the City Commission to approve the constract for state lobbying and advocacy services.
Explanation
The City of Gainesville is proposing to retain the services 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 municipal utility. A Request for Proposals was released on April 5, 2017 with an agreement to be in in place by October 1, 2017.
Peebles & Smith, Inc. will provide lobbying and advocacy services and monitor important legislative matters that could affect the City in areas of housing, utilities, water projects, economic redevelopment, transportation, and other areas of critical interest. The firm will attend Legislative sessions, committee hearings and meetings; attend agency hearings and meetings; provide high-level consultation for and assist with the identification of grant opportunities; and provide appropriate written status reports on issues and activities.
Fiscal Note
The City agrees to compensate Peebles & Smith, Inc. for services not to exceed $36,000.00 for the City's General Government, and a maximum amount not to-exceed $36,000.00 for Gainesville Regional Utilities, for a combined maximum amount not-to-exceed $72,000.00 per year. At the end of the contract period, upon satisfactory performance, the parties may agree to extend the contact for three additional one-year periods.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the contract with Peebles & Smith, Inc., subject to approval of the City Attorney as to form and legality.