DATE: June 18, 2024
TO: City Council
FROM: City Manager
SUBJECT
Title
Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute a Professional Services Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for State Legislative Advocacy Services for Fiscal Year 2025
RECOMMENDATION
That the Council adopt the attached resolution (Attachment II) authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a professional services agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for a period of one year, renewable for up to an additional five years, in an amount not to exceed $72,000 in its initial contract period
SUMMARY
Since 2009, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“Townsend”), has acted as the City’s primary state legislative advocate. Townsend’s work for the City includes legislative advocacy, seeking funding through grants and budget earmarks, and relationship-building with state legislators and agencies. Over the past three fiscal years, Townsend has secured $12.7 million in state budget earmarks, including funds for the Hayward Evaluation and Response Teams (HEART), the Stack Youth and Family Center Phase II, and the St. Rose Hospital Sub-Acute Facility, all in FY 2024. In January 2024, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for both federal and state legislative advocacy services. Townsend submitted the only responsive bid to the RFP and was selected by staff to continue state legislative advocacy services. The Townsend contract will total $72,000 and be renewable on a yearly basis through FY 2029, with a proposed increase of $500 per month, or $6,000 per year, at each contract renewal. Townsend’s monthly fee will be shared between the General Fund and the City’s Enterprise Funds. Contract increases in future years will be included in the annual budget request for the City Manager’s Office.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
Attachment II Resolution