COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: Charlie Cassens, City Manager
SUBJECT:Title
Approve Amendment No. 3 to the Arizona Government Relations Consultant/Lobbyist Contract with Willetta Partners
Body
FUNDING SOURCE:
General Fund
PURPOSE:
To extend the contract for an additional twelve month period, effective July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018.
BACKGROUND:
On June 24, 2014, Council awarded the Arizona Government Relations Consultant/Lobbyist contract to Willetta Partners. The original contract states that the contract may be renewed at the expiration of its term for a maximum of four additional twelve month periods by mutual agreement of both parties. This is the third renewal of the contract and will run from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018. The maximum payment under this Contract, including expenses is $60,000 annually.
Brian Tassinari, Lobbyist for Willetta Partners, has worked closely with Lake Havasu City for 16 years, managing the government relations account. Mr. Tassinari has provided weekly reports outlining all relevant bills and where they were in the process during the legislative session, and often met with Mayor and key staff in person or over the phone on numerous occasions. Willetta Partners is very familiar with the history and goals of Lake Havasu City as well as the goals of the Tri-City Council and has the experience and the relationships to continue delivering outstanding results for the citizens of Lake Havasu City. Staff is very satisfied with the performance of Willetta Partners and Brian Tassinari.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
The Government Relations/Lobbyist represents Lake Havasu City on matters before the state legislature and keeps staff informed when proposed legislation may positively or negatively impact the City and its citizens. The Government Relations/Lobbyist also monitors potential sources for grants or other revenue enhancements and works closely with the League of Arizona Cities and Towns.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Sufficient funds are budgeted for Lobbyist services in the General Fund in Acct # 110-1810-401-31.06 for FY 2017-18.
ATTACHMENTS:
Amendment No. 3-AZ Government Relations Consultant/Lobbyist Contract with Willetta Partners
SUGGESTED MOTION:Recommended Action
I move to approve Amendment No. 3 to the Arizona Government Relations Consultant/Lobbyist Contract with Willetta Partners renewing the contract effective July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018.