Council Meeting: July 13, 2004 Santa Monica, CA
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: City Staff
SUBJECT: Professional
Services Contract with The Ferguson Group, LLC for Washington Lobbying Services
This
report recommends that the City Council authorize the City Manager to negotiate
and execute a contract with The Ferguson Group to continue Washington lobbying
services on behalf of the City.
The
Ferguson Group has worked extensively for the City’s federal objectives in reviewing
federal executive proposals, legislation, administrative regulation,
Congressional appropriation opportunities and Washington developments for the
purpose of advising the City of those items that may affect a City policy or
program. Responsibilities include
providing detailed information on federal initiatives, maintaining liaison with
members of Congress and the Administration, providing assistance on appearances
by City officials before Congressional committees and administrative agencies,
and advising on City proposals pending before federal regulatory or funding
agencies.
The
City has requested assistance from the Ferguson Group on a range of issues
including: monitoring all related activities on MtBE/water contamination;
housing advocacy (CDBG, Home, Section 8, Section 202, Shelter Plus Care
renewals); community and economic development (415 PCH); transit/
transportation alternatives such as Exposition Right of Way Funding and
boulevard improvements; infrastructure improvements such as Palisades Bluffs
stabilization, the Breakwater and seismic reliability of water facilities; FAA
regulatory and administration action; FCC Regulatory and Administrative action;
and FEMA related assistance.
The
Ferguson Group has a proven track record advocating on behalf of the City. Services will be provided to Santa Monica
for $63,600 which is included in the adopted FY2004-05 Budget and is the same
amount as last three years.
Funds
of $63,600 are available in account number 01274.555060.
Staff
recommends that the City Council authorize the City manager to negotiate and
execute a professional services contract with The Ferguson Company in the
amount of $63,600.
Prepared by: Kathryn Vernez,
Assistant to the City Manager for Government Relations