ACTION REQUESTED:
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Communication from the City Manager with a Request to APPROVE a 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: The City issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking a firm to represent the City of Peoria in the State capitol. A state lobbyist helps City staff and elected officials craft and advance legislation and identifies potential funding opportunities that could benefit Peoria. The RFP outlined the key duties of the selected firm: assist in crafting the annual legislative agenda; build relationships with key elected officials from other communities; collaborate with appointed and career department staff; and inform the City of important issues that might impact Peoria.
The RFP was sent to six firms and placed on the City’s website. Two firms submitted proposals, but one withdrew its proposal prior to the scheduled interview process. The remaining proposer, McAnarney Consulting, is the City’s current registered lobbyist. Mr. McAnarney has served in this capacity since November 2012 and has been an excellent advocate and voice for Peoria in Springfield. Mr. McAnarney has been a registered lobbyist since 1988 and has extensive relationships with both elected and appointed officials throughout state government. The attached contract is for one year with three option years.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: McAnarney Consulting charges the City $3600 per month, inclusive of any travel or incidental expenses.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: Not applicable.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: The City will have McAnarney Consulting continue to serve as its state lobbyist.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The contract will not be signed and the City will not have a state lobbyist.
ALTERNATIVES: None.
EEO CERTIFICATION NUMBER: 03170-171231
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. Invest in our infrastructure and transportation.
2. Have an efficient government.
DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office