ITEM:		CONSENT CALENDAR
2.	AUTHORIZE EXPENDITURE OF BUDGETED FUNDS TO CONTRACT FOR STRATEGIC PLANNING FACILITATION SERVICES BY SNIDER AND ASSOCIATES
Meeting Date:			March 19, 2007	Budgeted:	Yes
From:			David A. Berger, General Manager	Program/ Line Item No.:	Acct. 99-7740 (Professional Fees)
Prepared By:			Arlene Tavani	Cost Estimate	$4,300
General Counsel Approval: N/A
Committee Recommendation: The Administrative Committee reviewed this item on March 13, 2007 and recommended approval.
CEQA Compliance: N/A

SUMMARY: The purpose of this action is to authorize the expenditure of budgeted funds for professional meeting facilitation services by Marilyn Snider of Snider and Associates in connection with the proposed annual District Strategic Planning Retreat scheduled as a special meeting of the Board on April 19, 2007

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RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Board authorize 1) the expenditure of budgeted funds, not to exceed $4,300, to cover the cost of professional facilitation services for the April 19, 2007 Strategic Planning Retreat; and 2) the General Manager to execute a District professional services agreement with Snider and Associates to perform this facilitation service.

BACKGROUND: The Board conducted a Strategic Planning Retreat on September 25, 2006 that was facilitated by Ms. Snider. At that retreat, the Board agreed that they would conduct a follow-up meeting in April 2007.

IMPACT TO STAFF/RESOURCES: The General Manager’s Office section of the District’s amended 2006-2007 budget, contains an $8,600 professional fees line item for strategic planning facilitation services. The unspent balance in this account of $4,440 will cover the cost of Ms. Snider’s professional facilitation fee, as well as the attendance of a skilled and experienced recorder. Lodging for Ms. Snider and the recorder for one night, and mileage to and from the retreat are also included in the facilitation fee.

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