ITEM:		CONSENT CALENDAR
11.	CONSIDER EXPENDITURE OF BUDGETED FUNDS TO CONTRACT WITH JEA & ASSOCIATES FOR GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS SERVICES
Meeting Date:			June 21, 2010	Budgeted:	Yes
From:			Darby Fuerst,	Program/	Services & Supplies
			General Manager	Line Item No.:	Professional Fees
Staff Contact:			Darby Fuerst	Cost Estimate:	$35,000
General Counsel Review: N/A
Committee Recommendation: The Administrative Committee reviewed this item on June 15, 2010 and recommended approval.
CEQA Compliance: N/A

SUMMARY: John Arriaga of JEA & Associates has worked with the Legislative Advocacy Committee since May 2008 in implementing its directives concerning the Cease and Desist Order (CDO) against California American Water (CAW) and to assist the District in obtaining funds for water conservation and/or water supply measures required in response to the CDO. As proposed, JEA & Associates would continue to undertake legislative and administrative activities to support the District’s priorities during Fiscal Year 2010-2011.

RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Board authorize the General Manager to expend budgeted funds to renew its contract with JEA & Associates for a not-to-exceed amount of $35,000 for the period July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011.

BACKGROUND: JEA & Associates is a Sacramento-based firm that provides governmental services to Monterey County, the Transportation Agency of Monterey County (TAMC), and other entities. As proposed, JEA & Associates will schedule, coordinate, and participate in meetings with the Governor’s Office, California Legislature, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), SWRCB, and others in addressing key issues and concerns regarding the CDO. In addition, JEA & Associates will assist District staff with project applications for grant funding for water supply and environmental mitigation projects. As proposed, JEA & Associates would receive a $2,500 monthly retainer fee plus chargeable expenses. It is anticipated that JEA & Associates’ level of activity will not exceed 25 hours per month on a regular basis.

IMPACT TO DISTRICT RESOURCES: The total cost for JEA & Associates to provide governmental services for Fiscal Year 2010-2011 is $33,500. This estimate includes $30,000 in monthly retainer fees and $5,000 for chargeable expenses. Funds for this expenditure are included in the FY 2010-11 budget under Services and Supplies, Professional Fees.

EXHIBITS

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