ADMINISTRATION - Michelle A. Wolfe, City Manager
Title
Title
Appoint the City’s Federal Lobbying Firm and Approve Professional Services Contract
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Executive Summary
The Council is asked to appoint a federal lobbying firm to represent the city, and to approve a contract for professional services for the period 4/5/22 through 12/31/22.
Background
In February staff sent a request for proposals (RFP) for federal agency and congressional lobbying services to 30 different firms; seven proposals were received. Firms were requested to submit proposals for services to secure transportation funding for the completion of Highway 65 improvements in three core areas:
• Advancing policy goals at the federal level
• Identifying federal opportunities that would support the levels of service and quality of programs provided to the residents of Blaine
• Representing the City’s interest before the United States Congress and its committees and before the executive branch of the federal government
Staff held initial discussions regarding the submitted proposals, reviewing them in relation to the stated criteria. The number of firms was narrowed to five. The Mayor and City Manager conducted online interviews with the five finalist firms. Based on review of the proposals and results of the interviews, staff recommends The Ferguson Group (TFG) be appointed with the proposed cost as follows:
Up to $45,000 for advocacy services
Up to $45,000 for grant support
Advocacy services will be billed at a retainer rate of $5,000 per month. Grant services will be billed as needed; the city will determine which grants to apply for, and the scope of services that will be needed per grant. (Pricing for grant services is outlined in the attached Grant Services Overview document.)
Strategic Plan Relationship
By partnering with lobbying firms, relationships are built services provided to support the city’s progress on the top priority project, TH 65 reconstruction. Advocacy and grant services are necessary to improve the city’s opportunities to secure over $120 million in federal funding.
Board/Commission Review
None required.
Financial Impact
Funding for federal lobbying was not specifically funded. The Finance Director has indicated that General Fund contingency funds are available as a funding source for this contract. Staff would also monitor revenue collection trends throughout the year. If revenue collected exceeds budgeted amounts, staff would recommend a budget amendment directing funds on hand be used to fund the federal lobbyist contract.
Public Outreach/Input
None required.
Staff Recommendation
Approve a contract with The Ferguson Group (TFG).
Attachment List
Request for proposal document, including scope of work
Proposal from TFG
TFG Grant Services Overview