ITEM:		CONSENT CALENDAR
2.	CONSIDER EXPENDITURE OF BUDGETED FUNDS FOR ANNUAL CONTRACT WITH THOMAS BRAND CONSULTING, LLC
Meeting Date:			July 22, 2013	Budgeted:	Yes
From:			David J. Stoldt,	Program/	Public Outreach
			General Manager	Line Item No.:	9-7811.50
Prepared By:			Stephanie Pintar	Cost Estimate:	$36,000
General Counsel Review: N/A
Committee Recommendation: The Administrative Committee reviewed this item on July 8, 2013 and recommended approval. The Public Outreach Committee reviewed this item on July 9, 2013 and recommended approval.

SUMMARY: Staff is seeking to renew the contract for public outreach services with Thomas Brand Consulting at a not-to-exceed cost of $36,000 annually.  Thomas Brand Consulting was hired in April 2013 to assist with outreach tasks formerly done by a permanent position at the District. Staff has been working with the consultant since April and has been pleased with their services. A comprehensive Scope of Work for the coming year is attached as Exhibit 2-A.

Thomas Brand Consulting will assist District staff with activities and actions related to community relations, marketing communications, and media relations. The consultant will primarily assist with high level communication and coordination, particularly regarding water supply project development and coordination with other agencies such as the Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority, the Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control District, California American Water and others. Thomas Brand Consulting will also be used to assist with the release of accurate information on a timely basis when public activities warrant it, including development of press releases, advertising and outreach regarding District programs that are designed to reach target audiences. Assistance with other outreach programs, including implementation of a speaker’s bureau, maintaining current social media, and assistance with website development and upkeep may also be assigned to Thomas Brand Consulting.

RECOMMENDATION:  Staff recommends the Board authorize the General Manager to enter into a contractual retainer for public outreach services for 12 months at $3,000 per month ($36,000 per year) starting July 1, 2013.

EXHIBIT

2-A Proposed Scope of Work from Thomas Brand Consulting, LLC

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