Title
Authorizing the City to enter into professional services agreements with Lockridge Grindel Nauen, PLLP for lobbying activities.
Body
WHEREAS, Saint Paul Administrative Code §45.03 requires that all contracts for lobbying activities be first authorized by resolution of the city council; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor's Office wishes to contract with Lockridge Grindal Nauen, PLLP, to provide federal legislative lobbying services in 2015, including but not limited to:
· Advocate for continued CDBG, HOME, Emergency Shelter Grant, and Promise Neighborhood funding for city programs:
· Monitor, analyze, and advocate for grant funding for the Kellogg/3rd Street Bridge reconstruction project;
· Monitor and analyze grant funding opportunities related to parks, including dredging, trails, and the City's Great River Passage plan, among others;
· Monitor and analyze activities related to the federal budget and congressional appropriations process and the impact to Saint Paul;
· Advocate for inclusion of high speed rail alignment coming from Chicago to Saint Paul's Union Depot in any federal transportation authorization or appropriation bills;
· Advocate for funding for Violence Against Women Act grants;
· Assistance where needed in connection with Mayor's leadership position with the National League of Cities; and
· Other legislative priorities as needed.
RESOLVED, that the city council authorizes the appropriate city officials to enter into the attached professional services agreements with Lockridge Grindal Nauen, PLLP.