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Approve a 3 year contract with Paragon Government Relations for federal advocacy services from October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2023 in an amount not to exceed $522,947; and Delegate authority to the County Administrator to sign the contract
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Approve a contract with Paragon Government Relations for federal advocacy services from October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2023 in an amount not to exceed $522,947 which includes reasonable travel and incidental expenses in an amount not to exceed $6,000 per year; and
2. Delegate authority to the County Administrator to sign the contract.
SUMMARY:
The County retained the services of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer and Field, LLP (AGSHF) until the contract expired on October 1, 2009. AGSHF was succeeded by Waterman & Associates through a Request for Qualifications process and has served commendably as the County's federal advocacy team since October 7, 2009. The current contract with Paragon Government Relations (formerly Waterman & Associates name changed on January 1, 2018) is set to expire on September 30, 2020. Staff recommends maintaining continuity with Paragon Government Relations as the federal advocacy team based on their exemplary performance, high level of expertise, and their proven access to congressional staffers and elected officials.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The County has retained the services of a federal advocate since 2003. The initial contract with AGSHF was for $13,125 per month or $157,500 annually. Waterman and Associates (now Paragon Government Relations) assumed the contract in October 2009 at a rate of $120,000 annually. Currently their contract is approximately $159,613 annually. In addition, their contract includes reasonable travel and incidental expenses reimbursable per the current I.R.S. rates in an amount not t...
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