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SR-100-002-01 (6) Council Meeting: July 12, 2005 Santa Monica, CA TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: City Staff SUBJECT: Professional Services Contract with The Ferguson Group, LLC for Washington Representative/Lobbying Services Introduction This report recommends that the City Council authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a contract with The Ferguson Group to continue representing the City’s interest in Washington, D.C. Background The Ferguson Group has worked extensively for the City’s federal objectives since 1994. They monitor federal executive proposals, legislation, administrative regulation, Congressional appropriation opportunities and other developments, advising the City when City policy or program objectives may be affected. Responsibilities include providing detailed information on federal initiatives, maintaining liaison with members of Congress and the Administration, assisting City officials with appearances before Congressional committees and administrative agencies, and advising on City proposals pending before federal regulatory or funding agencies. The Ferguson Group has represented the City’s interest on issues including: MtBE/water contamination; housing (CDBG, Home, Section 8, Section 202, Shelter Plus 1 Care renewals); homelessness; community and economic development (415 PCH); transit/transportation including the Exposition Right of Way and boulevard improvements; infrastructure improvements such as Palisades Bluffs stabilization and seismic reliability of water facilities; and regulatory and administration action by the FAA, FCC and FEMA. Discussion The Ferguson Group has effectively advocated on behalf of the City. Services will be provided to Santa Monica for an amount not to exceed $67,600, including expenses not to exceed $4,000. While the base contract amount has not changed in the last three years, expenses not to exceed $4,000 are now included. Budget/Financial Impact Funds of $67,600 are available in account number 01202.555060. Recommendation Staff recommends that the City Council authorize the City manager to negotiate and execute a professional services contract with The Ferguson Company in an amount not to exceed $67,600, including expenses not to exceed $4,000. Prepared by: Kathryn Vernez, Assistant to the City Manager for Government Relations Reference Contract No. 8493 (CCS) 2