07-05-2022 CC RPT 14 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Professional Consultant Services Agreement -Federal Advocacy Services2 DISCUSSION: On January 26, 2022, Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 2151 was released for professional consultant services - Federal Advocacy Services. The RFP was posted on the C Electronic Bidding System, PlanetBids Vendor Portal, and distributed to federal advocacy and public relations firms. There were 30 prospective bidders. Responses to the RFP were received from the following seven (7) firms: Alcalde &Fay, Carpi & Clay, Kadesh & Associates LLC, Kiley & Associates LLC, Porter Group LLC, Thorn Run Partners (TRP), and Townsend Public Affairs. A technical evaluation committee consisting of evaluators from various City departments including the Department, and Riverside Public Utilities, evaluated the proposals based on criteria in the RFP. The top three firms, TRP, Alcalde & Fay, and Carpi & Clay advanced to round two evaluations. After a thorough review, TRP received the highest score, has satisfactory references, and significant experience. Thorn Run Partners (TRP) is a full-service government affairs firm that provides representation with federal agencies, departments, and associations, while incorporating traditional lobbying, policy depth, and strategic communications to ensure the legislative agenda is advanced. TRP represents over 40 local governments from across the country, including several in California. TRP is well-versed in nearly all federal matters impacting local governments, including appropriations and grants, transportation, water, and sustainability. In coordination with the , TRP will assist the City in implementing an effective federal advocacy strategy to influence federal laws and policies and increase funding opportunities as they relate to City priorities, programs, and operations. The Purchasing Manager concurs that the recommendations to approve the agreement is in compliance with Purchasing Resolution No. 23812. STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT: This item supports Strategic Priority 5 High Performing Government and goals: 5.3. Enhance communication and collaboration with community members to improve transparency, build public trust, and encourage shared decision-making. 5.4. Achieve and maintain financial health by addressing gaps between revenues and expenditures and aligning resources with strategic priorities to yield the greatest impact. 5.5. Foster a culture of safety, well-being, resilience, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion across the city organization. This item aligns with each of the five Cross-Cutting Threads as follows: 1. Community Trust The federal advocacy firm will help to ensure the C community priorities are understood and promoted at the national level. 2. Equity The federal advocacy firm will work to gain an equitable distribution of federal resources to the City.