Agenda Item Wording:
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Approve annual service agreement with Nielsen, Merksamer, Parrinello, Gross & Leoni (NMPGL) for state legislative advocacy services, effective Dec. 1, 2021 through Nov. 30, 2022, for a monthly fee of $7,000, with up to four additional one year extension options.
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Deadline for Action: 11/15/2021
Submitting Department: Administration
Contact Name and Phone Number: Devon Jones, 4190
Department Recommendation:
Authorize City Manager to approve an annual Professional Services Agreement with NMPGL (with up to four additional one-year extension options) for state legislative advocacy services, effective Dec. 1, 2021 through Nov. 30, 2022, for a monthly fee of $7,000 plus an average monthly expense of $200 specifically for assistance with lobbyist activity reporting required by the state, which has been broken out separately as the service itself is not a lobbying service. Additionally, any travel related expenses associated with approved trips to the City of Visalia would be reimbursed.
Background Discussion:
Recently staff issued a Response for Proposals (RFP) for state lobbyist services as
the existing contract for services expires this month. Three firms responded to the RFP, and after proposal review by review committee members, Nielsen, Merksamer, Parrinello, Gross & Leoni LLP (NMPGL) was recommended as the firm to submit to Council for authority to execute an annual agreement. NMPGL is the current service provider. The agreement may be extended for up to four additional one-year terms, pending Council approval each year. The lead lobbyist that will continue to work with city staff is John Moffatt, a Partner in the firm, as well as Senior Counsel Michelle Rubalcava and Manager of Research for Legislation and Public Policy, Andrew Langley. In the previous 5 years that the firm has represented the City in state legislative issues, Mr. Moffatt and his support staff have been consistently responsive to City issues, up to...
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