SR-101-001-03
December 13, 2005 Santa Monica, CA
To: Mayor and City Council
From: City Staff
Subject: Agreement for Services of a Representative on Homeless Issues
Introduction
This report requests that the City Council authorize the City Manager to negotiate and
execute an agreement in the amount of $200,000 with Edmund D. Edelman for services
as the City’s representative on homeless issues. This report also recommends that City
Council appropriate funds for this project.
Background
In support of the City’s efforts to reduce the impact of homelessness on residents of
Santa Monica and to stimulate regional action on the issue of homelessness, on April
26, 2005, the City Council authorized the engagement of services for that purpose. A
budget of $200,000 was allocated for the first year of the engagement. City staff issued
a Request for Qualifications seeking qualified independent contractors and has carefully
considered the responses.
Discussion
For several reasons this is a pivotal moment in which an effective regional approach to
the issue of homelessness will be achieved or missed. The blue ribbon Bring LA Home
panel will consider a ten-year plan to end homelessness in the region early in 2006.
The City and County of Los Angeles are reconsidering governance of homeless
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initiatives. The flow of Proposition 63 mental health funds to Los Angeles County will
commence, bringing new resources to bear on the dually diagnosed homeless, among
other beneficiaries.
One respondent possessed the background and influence sought in the RFQ and
essential to realizing the promise of 2006. Edmund D. Edelman, formerly a Los
Angeles County Supervisor, brings strong credentials in mental health and law
enforcement issues and knowledge of the judiciary to the engagement. Mr. Edelman is
prepared to commence work upon Council authorization and execution of an agreement
for services. The City Manager will oversee the engagement which may be extended
on mutual agreement for an additional six months.
Budget/Financial Impact
Funds in the amount of $200,000 are available for appropriation from the General Fund
to account 01202.555060 for this agreement.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council:
1) Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement in the amount of $200,000
with Edmund D. Edelman for representation on homeless issues.
2) Appropriate funds in the amount of $200,000 as described in the
Budget/Financial Impact section.
Prepared by: Gordon Anderson, Acting City Manager
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Reference Contract No. 8541 (CCS)
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