ACTION REQUESTED:
Title
Communication from the City Manager with a Request to Extend the City’s CONTRACT with MCANARNEY CONSULTING to Serve as the City’s Lobbyist in the State of Illinois and to Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Necessary Documents.
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BACKGROUND: On November 13, 2012, the City Council approved a contract with McAnarney Consulting to serve as the City’s lobbyist for state government. The contract was for one year with three (3) option years at the City’s discretion. In December 2013, the City Council approved the first option year. In January 2015, the Council approved the second option year. The third and final option year would extend from November 2015 through October 2015.
The City administration continues to be pleased with the work done by this firm and requests the City Council approve the final option year. Given the significant issues facing the State and the potentially significant impact on municipal government, having a professional liaisons in Springfield is important. Council has been provided with monthly reports from the lobbyist (compiled and attached) and has had opportunities to meet with him in Peoria and Springfield. Recognizing the fiscal situation of the City, Mr. McAnarney has agreed to lower the cost of this third extension by 10% to $3,600 per month.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The original contract with Mr. McAnarney cost the City $4,000 per month. This extension lowers the price by 10% to $3,600 per month. These funds are budgeted in the operating budget of the City Manager’s Office. The cost is reasonable in comparison to the costs of lobbying services in other similar communities. Rockford pays its lobbyist $10,000 per month. Aurora pays $7,040 per month.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: Not applicable.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: The contract option will be executed and McAnarney Consulting will continue to serve as the City’s lobbyist in Springfield. At the conclusion of this final extension, the service will be put back out to bid.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The option will not be signed and the City will cease having a state lobbyist.
ALTERNATIVES: Issue an RFP for this service.
EEO CERTIFICATION NUMBER: 03170-160331
WHICH OF THE GOALS IDENTIFIED IN THE COUNCIL’S 2014 - 2029 STRATEGIC PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION ADVANCE?
1. Financially Sound City Government, Effective City Organization
WHICH CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S) FROM THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION IMPLEMENT?
1. Have an efficient government.
DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office