Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Robert Camareno, City Manager
Contact Info
(830) 221-4280 - rcamareno@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an Agreement with Richard J. Leidl, P.C. for federal legislative services on behalf of the City of New Braunfels.
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BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
City Council’s Strategic Priorities identified the City’s legislative priorities, which include the pursuit of federal funding for priority projects. As the City continues to pursue alternative funding sources, advancing key legislative or project initiatives and various city objectives, professional support is key to the City’s success.
During the past ten years Richard J. Leidl has provided federal legislative services for the City of New Braunfels. Mr. Leidl has assisted in obtaining federal funding for a number of projects by working with the City’s congressional delegation on legislation to provide funding and by working with federal agencies to secure funding directly through specific programs. A few of Mr. Leidl’s activities over the past year include:
• Working with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Federal Contract Tower Program, to continue the approximately $350,000 in funding for the control tower at the Airport. In 2017, his efforts were focused on requesting support and working with the City’s congressional delegation and the U.S. Contract Tower Association to ensure funding for FY 17 and FY 18. Mr. Leidl tracked and advised the City of developments throughout the process. In 2018, Mr. Leidl will continue to support the City for funding in FY 2019.
• Assisting the Airport in its efforts to obtain FAA approval to use Airport property for non-aviation purposes for an Aquifer Storage Recovery Project.
• Assisting the City in its efforts to obtain Federal grant funding and providing valuable information on the availability of funding under various programs, including the Assistance to Firefighters grants and Economic Development Administration grants. In 2018, Mr. Leidl will continue to assist the City with grant opportunities.
• Arranging and participating in meetings with the Economic Development Administration in Washington.
• Continuing assisting the City in obtaining support for its Flood Mitigation program through Federal agencies and the Congressional delegation.
• Assisting the City in its efforts to obtain high-speed internet service for the community. Mr. Leidl arranged for meetings with the National Telecommunications and information Office (NTIA) to support the project. In 2018, Mr. Leidl will support the City by reviewing the RFP, obtaining additional support from the NTIA, and exploring opportunities for Federal funding for improved internet service in New Braunfels.
• Monitoring Federal Legislative and Regulatory Issues in 2018, advising of developments and representing the City’s interests.
• Assisting the City in it’s efforts to annually visit Washington to participate in meetings with members and staff of the Congressional delegation, NTIA officials, Economic Administration officials and telecommunications counsel on Federal issues. Arranging meetings with City officials and Congressional members and staff to visit New Braunfels and tour City projects. Leidl will continue to assist the City on these efforts in FY 2018.
Mr. Leidl’s guidance, support and expertise in areas such as transportation, FAA, FEMA, and the Departments of Justice, Commerce, and Energy will continue to be important and beneficial to the interests of the City.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
Yes - Council Priority - Strategic Priorities:
Objective 2 - Use a variety of funding sources for operational and capital needs.
Objective 2b - Pursue opportunities for state and federal grants and legislative funding for priority projects.
FISCAL IMPACT:
$54,000 annual retainer plus expenses budgeted from the general fund for the calendar year January 1 - December 31, 2018. This would be an increase from the $48,000 annual retainer which has been in place for the past seven years. Funds are included in the 2017-18 budget for this expense.
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Manager be authorized to enter into an agreement with Richard J. Leidl, P.C. for federal legislative services for the City of New Braunfels.