TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute a contract for state legislative representation services provided by Michael J. Arnold and Associates for an amount not to exceed $102,261 for a period of one year. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The firm of Michael J. Arnold and Associates has successfully represented the City of Long Beach in Sacramento before the State Legislature and various state agencies since 1983. Michael J. Arnold and Associates provides invaluable advice, technical legislative assistance, historical perspective, and strong advocacy on City issues, as well as maintains excellent relationships with Legislators and staff in Sacramento.
The purchase order between the City and Michael J. Arnold and Associates for Fiscal Year 2006 (FY 06) expired on September 30, 2006. Based on the firm's unique knowledge and extensive understanding of the City of Long Beach and local government issues, as well as the reputation of the firm's partners in Sacramento, the approval of an annual contract is recommended.
Summary of Last Year's Advocacy Efforts
The past fiscal year was a tremendously active year for the City on the state level.
Attachment A includes examples of a few of the high-priority issues the City faced and which Michael J. Arnold and Associates was intricately involved. Attachment B provides further information on the qualifications of Michael J. Arnold and Associates.
Contract Amount
It is recommended that the City Council approve a one-year contract with Michael J.
Arnold and Associates and grant a 3.2 percent Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase over last year's amount to cover anticipated cost increases. This recommendation would result in a monthly payment of $8,049 (previously $7,799). The total proposed contract would include $96,583 for the annual retainer and up to $5,700 for approved expenses, for a total contract amount not to exceed $102,283.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on October 3, 2006 to en...
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