Title
Adopt a Resolution to Approve and Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Consulting Services Agreement with Strategic Economics for Production of the Economic Development Strategy for $120,000 and to Negotiate and Approve Cumulative Contract Amendments up to 25% of the Contract Amount for a Total Not to Exceed Amount of $150,000
Staffreport
COUNCIL PRIORITY
* Community & Business Development
* COVID Recovery (ARPA Spending Plan)
* Fiscal Sustainability and Transparency
* Community Engagement and Outreach
SUMMARY
Staff is moving forward with a new Economic Development Strategy that will:
* Articulate a clear vision and pathway for economic development in line with Council policies;
* Organize the City's economic development resources and efforts in the most efficient and effective way possible;
* Update the most recent policy document (from 2016) to respond to recent market changes, post-COVID trends, demographic shifts, and other factors; and
* Expand the City's status and visibility in the Bay Area development community.
After going through an extensive Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, staff recommends Strategic Economics as the most qualified consultant for the project. Staff recommends that City Council approve a Consulting Services Agreement with Strategic Economics.
If approved by Council, Strategic Economics will begin work immediately on the Economic Development Strategy, including: performing community outreach and gathering stakeholder input, and completing technical analysis of existing conditions, real estate opportunities, industry trends, workforce development issues, financial feasibility, infrastructure, and other issues. The final document is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Staff recommends the City Council adopt a Resolution approving and authorizing the City Manager to enter into a Consulting Services Agreement with Strategic Economics for production of the Economic ...
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