09/08/2014 AgreementAMY NEAVILIN, CPA
CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT 8 COMPTROLLER
NNR0ECNW9RA1U
DATE: October 1, 2014
TO: Bob Shillinger,
County Attorney
ATTN.- Kathy Peters
FROM Lindsey Ballard, D. CJV
At the September 8, 2014, Board of County Commissioner's meeting the Board granted approval
and authorized execution of Item B 1 Professional Services Agreements with Van Scoyoc Associates,
Inc. and Becker and Poliakoff, P.A. for federal lobbying services.
Enclosed are is a duplicate original of the above -mentioned for your handling. Should you have
any questions, please feel free to contact my office.
cc: County Attorney
Finance
File,/
500 Whitehead Street Suite 101, PO Box 1980, Key West FL 33040 Phone: 305-295-3130 Fax. 305-295-3663
3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 Phone: 305-289-6027 Fax 305-289-6025
88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070 Phone: 852-7145 Fax: 305-852-7146
N
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this F(th day of September 2014, by and
between Monroe COUNTY (hereinafter referred to as "COUNTY"), a political subdivision of the
State of Florida, through the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners ("BOCC"), whose
address is 1100 Simonton Street, Key West, Florida 33040, and Becker and Poliakoff, P.A.
(hereinafter referred to as "LOBBYIST"), a corporation authorized to do business in the State of
Florida, whose address is 1275 K Street, NW, Suite 850, Washington DC 20005;
WHEREAS, the COUNTY desires to employ the professional services of LOBBYIST,
Becker and Poliakoff, P.A. for federal legislative and lobbying services assigned by the County
Administrator and Legislative Affairs Director and agreed to by LOBBYIST; and
WHEREAS, LOBBYIST has agreed to provide professional services for federal legislative
and lobbying services as assigned by the County Administrator and agreed to by LOBBYIST; and
NOW, THEREFORE in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants of this
Agreement, the parties agree as follows:
1. TERM OF AGREEMENT
This Agreement shall begin on October 1, 2014 and shall end on September 30, 2015,
with two (2) one-year contract renewals at the sole discretion of the COUNTY.
2. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The LOBBYIST's responsibility under this contract is to provide federal lobbying
services to the COUNTY in accordance with Exhibit A, Scope of Services, attached
hereto and incorporated herein, and Exhibit B, Becker and Poliakoff's proposal dated
May 1, 2014, also attached hereto and incorporated herein, with the following exceptions
to that proposal: Mr. Omar Franco shall act the LOBBYIST's lead, project manager, and
primary contact; and Mr. Jose Fuentes shall act as the LOBBYIST's local liaison should
the LOBBYIST choose to assign one. The LOBBYIST shall not assign a different lead,
project manager or primary contact, or local liaison except with prior written approval of
the COUNTY Administrator.
The COUNTY's representatives during the performance of this Contract shall be Roman
Gastesi, County Administrator (305) 292-4441 and Lisa Tennyson, Director, Legislative
Affairs, (305) 292-4444.
The LOBBYIST's representative during the performance of this Contract shall be Omar
Franco (202) 621-7122.
3. THE CONTRACT SUM
The COUNTY shall pay to the LOBBYIST, pursuant to the Florida Prompt Payment Act,
upon receiving a proper invoice from the LOBBYIST for the faithful performance of said
service on an arrears basis. Invoicing shall be submitted in twelve monthly installments.
Documentation in support of said invoice shall describe the services rendered during the
month covered by the invoice. The total Contract price shall not exceed $40,000 and is
subject to annual appropriation by the Board of County Commissioners. The cost of any
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travel must be authorized in writing in advance by the County Administrator and shall be
reimbursed pursuant to rules and regulations governing travel reimbursement and shall be
in addition to the Contract price.
4. ASSIGNMENT/SUBCONTRACT
The LOBBYIST shall not assign or subcontract its obligations under this agreement
except in writing and with the prior written approval of the Board of County
Commissioners for Monroe County and LOBBYIST, which approval shall be subject to
such conditions and provisions as the Board may deem necessary. This paragraph shall be
incorporated by reference into any assignment or subcontract and any assignee or
subcontractors shall comply with all of the provisions of this agreement. Unless
expressly provided for therein, such approval shall in no manner or event be deemed to
impose any obligation upon the Board in addition to the total agreed -upon price of the
services/goods of the LOBBYIST.
5. HOLD HARMLESS
The LOBBYIST covenants and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Monroe
County Board of County Commissioners from any and all claims for bodily injury
(including death), personal injury, and property damage (including property owned by
Monroe County) and any other losses, damages, and expenses (including attorney's fees)
which arise out of, in connection with, or by reason of services provided by LOBBYIST
or any of its Subcontractor(s) in any tier, occasioned by the negligence, errors, or other
wrongful act of omission of the LOBBYIST or its Subcontractors in any tier, their
employees, or agents.
In the event the completion of the project (to include the work of others) is delayed or
suspended as a result of the LOBBYIST's failure to purchase or maintain the required
insurance, the LOBBYIST shall indemnify the COUNTY from any and all increased
expenses resulting from such delay.
The first ten dollars ($10.00) of remuneration paid to the LOBBYIST is for the
indemnification provided for above.
The extent of liability is in no way limited to, reduced, or lessened by the insurance
requirements contained elsewhere within this agreement.
6. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
At all times and for all purposes under this agreement the LOBBYIST is an independent
contractor and not an employee of the Board of County Commissioners for Monroe
COUNTY. No statement contained in this agreement shall be construed so as to find the
LOBBYIST or any of his/her employees, contractors, servants, or agents to be employees
of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County.
7. ASSURANCE AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree that there will be no discrimination against any
persons, and it is expressly understood that upon a determination by a court of competent
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A
jurisdiction that discrimination has occurred, this Agreement automatically terminates
without any further action on the part of any party, effective the date of the court order.
COUNTY or LOBBYIST agree to comply with all Federal and Florida Statutes, and all
local ordinances, as applicable, relating to nondiscrimination. These include but are not
limited to: 1) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (PL 88-352) which prohibits
discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin; 2) Title IX of the Education
Amendment of 1972, as amended (20 USC ss. 1681-1683, and 1685-1686), which
prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex; 3) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973, as amended (20 USC s. 794), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of
handicaps; 4) The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended (42 USC ss. 6101-6107)
which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age; 5) The Drug Abuse Office and
Treatment Act of 1972 (PL 92-255), as amended, relating to nondiscrimination on the
basis of drug abuse; 6) The Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention,
Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 (PL 91-616), as amended, relating to
nondiscrimination on the basis of alcohol abuse or alcoholism; 7) The Public health
Service Act of 1912, ss. 523 and 527 (42 USC s. et seq. ), as amended, relating to
nondiscrimination in the sale, rental or financing of housing; 9) The Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC s. 1201 Note), as may be amended from time to time,
relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability; 10) Monroe COUNTY Code Ch.
13, Art. VI, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, disability,
national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status
or age; and 11) any other nondiscrimination provisions in any Federal or State statutes
which may apply to the parties to, or the subject matter of, this Agreement.
8. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW
In providing all services/ goods pursuant to this agreement, the LOBBYIST shall abide
by all statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining to, or regulating the
provisions of such services, including those now in effect and hereinafter adopted. Any
violation of said statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations shall constitute a material
breach of this agreement and shall entitle the Board to terminate this contract
immediately upon delivery of written note of termination to the LOBBYIST. The
LOBBYIST shall possess proper licenses to perform work in accordance with these
specifications throughout the term of this contract.
9. INSURANCE
LOBBYIST shall provide documentation of insurance coverage required for those
individuals or firms that perform work for or on behalf of the COUNTY, as specified in
the Monroe County Risk Management Policy and Procedures Manual as follows:
A) General Liability Insurance. Coverage shall be maintained throughout the life of
the contract and include, as a minimum:
• Premises Operations
• Products and Completed Operations
• Blanket Contractual Liability
• Personal Injury Liability
• Expanded Definition of Property Damage
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The minimum limits acceptable shall be:
• $300,000 Combined Single Limit (CSL)
If split limits are provided, the minimum limits acceptable shall be:
• $100,000 per Person
• $300,000 per Occurrence
• $ 50,000 Property Damage
An Occurrence Form policy is preferred. If coverage is provided on a Claims
Made policy, its provision should include coverage for claims filed on or after the
effective date of this contract. In addition, the period for which claims may be
reported should extend for a minimum of twelve (12) months following the
acceptance of work by the COUNTY.
The Monroe COUNTY Board of COUNTY Commissioners shall be named as
Additional Insured on all policies issued to satisfy the above requirements.
(B) Recognizing that the work governed by this contract requires the use of vehicles,
the LOBBYIST, prior to the commencement of work shall obtain Vehicle
Liability Insurance. Coverage shall be maintained throughout the life of the
contract and include, as a minimum, liability coverage for:
• Owned, Non -Owned and Hired Vehicles
The minimum limits acceptable shall be:
• $100,000 Combined Single Limit (CSL)
If split limits are provided, the minimum limits acceptable shall be:
• $ 50,000 per Person
• $100,000 per Occurrence
• $ 25,000 Property Damage
The Monroe COUNTY Board of COUNTY Commissioners shall be named as
additional Insured on all policies issued to satisfy the above requirements.
(C) Prior to the commencement of work governed by this contract, the LOBBYIST
shall obtain Workers' Compensation Insurance with limits sufficient to respond to
Florida Statute 440.
In addition, the LOBBYIST shall obtain Employers' Liability Insurance with
limits of not less than:
• $100,000 Bodily Injury by Accident
• $500,000 Bodily Injury by Disease, each employee
Coverage shall be maintained throughout the entire term of the contract.
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Coverage shall be provided by a company or companies authorized to transact
business in the State of Florida.
If the LOBBYIST has been approved by the Florida Department of Labor, as an
authorized self -insurer, the COUNTY shall recognize and honor the
LOBBYIST's status. The LOBBYIST may be required to submit a Letter of
Authorization issued by the Department of Labor and a Certificate of Insurance,
providing details on the LOBBYIST's Excess Insurance Program.
If the LOBBYIST participates in a self-insurance fund, a Certificate of Insurance
will be required. In addition, the LOBBYIST may be required to submit updated
financial statements from the fund upon request from the COUNTY.
10. FUNDING AVAILABILITY
In the event that funds are partially reduced or cannot be continued at a level sufficient to
allow for the provision of the services/goods specified herein, this agreement may then be
terminated immediately at the option of the Board of County Commissioners by written
notice of termination delivered in person or by mail to the LOBBYIST. The Board shall
not be obligated to pay for any services provided by the LOBBYIST after the
LOBBYIST has received written notice of termination. Monroe County's performance
and obligation to pay under this contract, is contingent upon an annual appropriation by
the BOCC.
11. PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
The LOBBYIST warrants that it is authorized by law to engage in the performance of the
activities encompassed by the project herein described, subject to the terms and
conditions set forth in these contract documents. The LOBBYIST shall at all times
exercise independent, professional judgment and shall assume professional responsibility
for the services to be provided.
12. NOTICE REQUIREMENT
Any notice required or permitted under this agreement shall be in writing and hand
delivered or mailed, postage prepaid, to the other party by certified mail, return receipt
requested, to the following:
FOR COUNTY:
COUNTY Administrator And COUNTY Attorney
1100 Simonton Street I I 1112`' Street, Suite 408
Key West, Florida 33040 Key West, Florida 33040
FOR LOBBYIST:
Omar Franco, Becker and Poliakoff
1275 K Street NW, Suite 850
Washington, DC 20005
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13. EARLY TERMINATION
A) In the event that the LOBBYIST shall be found to be negligent in any aspect of
completion of the Scope of Work, the COUNTY shall have the right to terminate
this Agreement after five days written notification to the LOBBYIST.
B) Either of the parties hereto may cancel this agreement without cause by giving the
other party thirty days written notice of its intention to do so.
14, GOVERNMENT LAWS/VENUE
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
State of Florida applicable to contracts made and to be performed entirely in the State.
In the event that any cause of action or administrative proceeding is instituted for the
enforcement or interpretation of the Agreement, the COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree
that venue will lie in the appropriate Court or before the appropriate administrative body
in Monroe COUNTY, Florida.
The COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree that, in the event of conflicting interpretations of
the terms or a term of this Agreement by or between any of them, the issue shall be
submitted to mediation prior to the institution of any other administrative or legal
proceeding.
15. RECORDKEEPING
LOBBYIST shall maintain all books, records, and documents directly pertinent to
performance under this Agreement in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles consistently applied. Each part to this Agreement or their authorized
representatives shall have reasonable and timely access to such records of each other
party to this Agreement for public records purposes during the term of the Agreement and
for four years following the termination of this Agreement. If an auditor employed by the
COUNTY or Clerk determines that monies paid to LOBBYIST pursuant to this
Agreement were spent for purposes not authorized by this Agreement, the LOBBYIST
shall repay the monies together with interest calculated pursuant to Sec. 55.03, F.S.
running from the date the monies were paid to LOBBYIST.
16. SEVERABILITY
If any term, covenant, condition or provision of this Agreement (or the application
thereof to any circumstance or person) shall be declared invalid or unenforceable to any
extent by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining terms, covenants, conditions
and provisions of this Agreement, shall not be affected thereby; and each remaining term,
covenant, condition and provision of this Agreement shall be valid and shall be
enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law unless the enforcement of the remaining
terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of this Agreement would prevent the
accomplishment of the original intent of this Agreement. The COUNTY and LOBBYIST
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agree to reform the Agreement to replace any stricken provision with a valid provision
that comes as close as possible to the intent of the stricken provision.
17. ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS
The COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree that in the event any cause of action or
administrative proceeding is initiated or defended by any party relative to the
enforcement or interpretation of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, investigative and out-of-pocket expenses, as an
award against the non -prevailing party, and shall include attorney's fees, court costs,
investigative and out-of-pocket expenses in appellate proceedings. Mediation
proceedings initiated and conducted pursuant to this Agreement shall be in accordance
with the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure and usual and customary procedures required
by the Circuit Court of Monroe County.
18. BINDING EFFECT
The terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall bind and inure to
the benefit of the COUNTY and LOBBYIST and their respective legal representatives,
successors and assigns.
19. AUTHORITY
Each parry represents and warrants to the other that the execution, delivery and
performance of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary COUNTY
and corporate action, as required by law.
20. CLAIMS FOR FEDERAL OR STATE AID
LOBBYIST and COUNTY agree that each shall be, and is empowered to apply for, seek,
and obtain Federal and State funds to further the purpose of this Agreement provided that
all applications, requests, grant proposals, and funding solicitations shall be approved by
each party prior to submission.
21. ADJUDICATION OF DISPUTES OR DISAGREEMENTS
COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree that all disputes and disagreements shall be attempted
to be resolved by meet and confer sessions between representatives of each of the parties.
If no resolution can be agreed upon within 30 days after the first meet and confer session,
the issue or issues shall be discussed at a public meeting of the Board of County
Commissioners. If the issue or issues are still not resolved to the satisfaction of the
parties, then any party shall have the right to seek such relief or remedy as may be
provided by this Agreement or by Florida law.
22. COOPERATION
In the event any administrative or legal proceeding is instituted against either parry
relating to the formation, execution, performance, or breach of this Agreement,
COUNTY and LOBBYIST agree to participate, to the extent required by the other party,
in all proceedings, hearings, processes, meetings and other activities related to the
substance of this Agreement or provision of the services under this Agreement.
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COUNTY and LOBBYIST specifically agree that no party to this Agreement shall be
required to enter into any arbitration proceedings related to this Agreement.
23. COVENANT OF NO INTEREST
COUNTY and LOBBYIST covenant that neither presently has any interest, and shall not
acquire any interest, which would conflict in any manner or degree with its performance
under this Agreement, and that the only interest of each is to perform and receive benefits
as recited in this Agreement.
24. CODE OF ETHICS
COUNTY agrees that officers and employees of the COUNTY recognize and will be
required to comply with the standards of conduct for public officers and employees as
delineated in Section 112.313, Florida Statutes, regarding, but not limited to, solicitation
or acceptance of gifts; doing business with one's agency; unauthorized compensation;
misuse of public position, conflicting employment or contractual relationship; and
disclosure or use of certain information.
25. NO SOLICITATION/PAYMENT
The COUNTY and LOBBYIST warrant that, in respect to itself, it has neither employed
nor retained any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for
it, to solicit or secure this Agreement and that it has not paid or agreed to pay any person,
company, corporation, individual, or firm, other than a bona fide employee working
solely for it, any fee, commission, percentage, gift or other consideration contingent upon
or resulting from the award or making of this Agreement. For the breach or violation of
the provision, the LOBBYIST agrees that the COUNTY shall have the right to terminate
this Agreement without liability, and, at its discretion, to offset from monies owed, or
otherwise recover, the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift or
consideration.
26. PUBLIC ACCESS
The COUNTY and LOBBYIST shall allow and permit reasonable access to, and
inspection of, all documents, papers, letters or other materials in its possession or under
its control subject to the provisions of Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, and made or
received by the COUNTY and LOBBYIST in conjunction with this Agreement and the
COUNTY shall have the right to unilaterally cancel this Agreement upon violation of this
provision by LOBBYIST. With respect to documents that are public records, the
CONTRACTOR agrees to comply with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, and agrees to
specifically to do the following:
(A) Keep and maintain public records that ordinarily and necessarily would be required by
the public agency in order to perform the service.
(B) Provide the public with access to public records on the same terms and conditions that the
public agency would provide the records and at a cost that does not exceed the cost
provided in this chapter or as otherwise provided by law.
(C) Ensure that public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public
records disclosure requirements are not disclosed except as authorized by law.
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(D) Meet all requirements for retaining public records and transfer, at no cost, to the public
agency all public records in possession of the contractor upon termination of the contract
and destroy any duplicate public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from
public records disclosure requirements. All records stored electronically must be
provided to the public agency in a format that is compatible with the information
technology systems of the public agency.
27. NON-WIAVER OF IMMUNITY
Notwithstanding the provision of Sec. 768.28, Florida Statutes, the participation of the
COUNTY and the LOBBYIST in this Agreement and the acquisition of any commercial
liability insurance coverage, self-insurance coverage, or local government liability
insurance pool coverage shall not be deemed a waiver of immunity to the extent of
liability coverage, nor shall any contract entered into by the COUNTY be required to
contain any provision for waiver.
28. PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIES
All of the privileges and immunities from liability, exemptions from laws, ordinances,
and rules and pensions and relief, disability, workers' compensation and other benefits
which apply to the activity of officers, agents or employees of any public agents or
employees of the COUNTY, when performing their respective functions under this
Agreement within the territorial limits of the COUNTY shall apply to the same degree
and extent to the performance of such functions and duties of such officers, agents,
volunteers, or employees outside the territorial limits of the COUNTY.
29. LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This Agreement is not intended to, nor shall it be construed as, relieving any participating
entity from any obligation or responsibility imposed upon the entity by law except to the
extent of actual and timely performance thereof by a participating entity, in which case
the performance may be offered in satisfaction of the obligation or responsibility. Further,
this Agreement is not intended to, nor shall it be construed as, authorizing the delegation
of the constitutional or statutory duties of the COUNTY, except to the extent permitted
by the Florida Constitution, State Statutes, and case law.
30. NON -RELIANCE BY NON-PARTIES
No person or entity shall be entitled to rely upon the terms, or any of them, of this
Agreement to enforce or attempt to enforce any third -party claim or entitlement to or
benefit of any service or program contemplated hereunder, and the COUNTY and the
LOBBYIST agree that neither the COUNTY nor the LOBBYIST or any agent, officer, or
employee of either shall have the authority to inform, counsel or otherwise indicate that
any particular individual or group of individuals, entity or entities, have entitlements or
benefits under this Agreement separate and apart, inferior to, or superior to the
community in general or for the purposes contemplated in this Agreement.
31. ATTESTATIONS
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LOBBYIST agrees to execute such documents as the COUNTY may reasonably require,
to include a Public Entity Crime Statement, an Ethics Statement, and a Drug -Free
Workplace Statement.
32. NO PERSONAL LIABILITY
No covenant or agreement contained herein shall be deemed to be a covenant or
agreement of any member, officer, agent or employee of Monroe COUNTY in his or her
individual capacity, and no member, officer, agent or employee of Monroe COUNTY
shall be liable personally on this Agreement or be subject to any personal liability or
accountability by reason of the execution of this Agreement.
33. EXECUTION ON COUNTERPARTS
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be
regarded as an original, all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same
instrument and any of the parties hereto may execute this Agreement by signing any such
counterpart.
34. SECTION HEADINGS
Section headings have been inserted in this Agreement as a matter of convenience of
reference only, and it is agreed that such section headings are not a part of this
Agreement and will not be used in the interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day
and date first written above at four (4) counterparts, each of which shall, without proof or
accounting for the other counterpart, be deemed an original contract.
WITNESSES: BE(
By:
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Print Name
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` BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AMY HEAVILIN, CLERK OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
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By: �4
Clerk ell M yor/Chairman
MONROE C ORirEY
Page 10 of 13 APPRR O F
Becker and Poliakoff Contract JR.
BOCC Sept 2014 RO9ERT B.
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EXHIBIT A
SCOPE OF SERVICES
(FROM FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICES RFQ DATED MARCH 2O14)
PART 7: Scope of Services
The successful firm will provide legislative and lobbying services at the federal level to assist
Monroe COUNTY in developing and implementing a Federal Legislative Program; will have a
keen understanding of Monroe COUNTY's priorities, policy objectives, and project funding
needs; shall pro -actively identify and seek legislative and administrative remedies and/or
appropriations to advance the COUNTY's priorities, policy objective and project funding needs.
The successful firm will be expected to handle a range of activities including, but not limited to:
A. Meet with COUNTY staff (COUNTY Administrator, COUNTY Attorney, Legislative
Director, and other relevant staff as needed) and the Board of COUNTY Commission to
develop a detailed Federal Legislative Program. Work closely with COUNTY staff to
identify the COUNTY's goals, priorities and specific projects, and which of these can be
addressed at the federal level, and assist in developing written material on each priority
and project in the COUNTY's Federal Legislative Program to provide to congressional
staff and federal agency staff.
B. Monitor current federal legislation, federal budget process, federal agency actions
legislative committee meetings, executive branch activity, agency hearings and meetings
prior to and during the regular session, and pro -actively report to the COUNTY, both
verbally and in writing, any new information or legislative events that may directly or
indirectly impact the COUNTY; and in the event that action is needs, advise the
COUNTY.
C. Propose and implement lobbying strategies to help support the COUNTY's federal
agenda.
D. Develop and evaluate strategy for the support, opposition, or amendment of pending
legislation that enhances the COUNTY's federal legislative program.
E. Identify key Congressional and federal agency contacts relating to specific COUNTY
issues; draft appropriate correspondence; and schedule briefings and meetings between
COUNTY officials and Congressional leaders, executive branch representatives, and
agency representatives.
F. Coordinate with COUNTY's Congressional delegation in gaining support for the
COUNTY's federal agenda.
G. Advocate with Congressional members, congressional committees, executive branch, and
federal agencies in support of the COUNTY's goals, priorities, and projects.
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BOCC Sept 2014
H. Represent the COUNTY and the Board before Congress and federal agencies.
I. Work closely with COUNTY staff in researching current issues and providing
background information.
J. Provide technical assistance and guidance to staff on correspondence and reports.
K. Review the legislative policy statements adopted by the Florida Association of Counties
and the National Association of Counties and other local governments and lobbying
groups for the purpose of identifying issues which may either positively or negatively
affect the COUNTY.
L. Provide written monthly activity reports and periodic updates on advocacy activity,
pending legislation, briefings/meetings, and on issues of interest or concern to the
COUNTY. Reports must contain, when possible, specific legislation, names of contacts
made, and the COUNTY's legislative priority it relates to, as well as any foreseeable
legislation or rulings that may affect the COUNTY.
M. Provide a written report that summarizes the status of the COUNTY's federal legislative
program within one week of the closing of the session, and a more detailed final written
report on specific legislation and new requirements affecting the COUNTY within 30
days from close of session.
N. Secure funding for programs and projects which have been identified by the COUNTY as
priorities; research and provide information on existing and new appropriations activities,
availability of funding, distribution of funding, year-end rollover funding, techniques to
be used by COUNTY to capitalize on opportunities, and examples of successful local
government applications; identify agencies or local governments which may be
competing for specific grants or appropriations, and help align support for the
COUNTY's position.
O. Be available for regular calls, meetings with COUNTY staff in Washington, DC as
needed, and an annual presentation to the Board in Monroe COUNTY, Florida.
P. Provide office space for COUNTY staff to use when they are in Washington, DC.
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r
EXHIBIT B
BECKER AND POLIAKOFF PROPOSAL DATED MAY 1, 2014
Becker and Poliakoff Contract Page 13 of 13
BOCC Sept 2014
BECKE[ �'x6
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May 1, 2014
Monroe County Purchasing Office
1100 Simonton Street, Room 213
Key West, FL 33040
Re: Proposal for LEGISLATIVE AND LOBBYING SERVICES FOR MONROE
COUNTY'S FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
Dear Members of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, Mr. Gastesi and Ms.
Tennyson:
Becker & Poliakoff, P.A. ("the Firm") is pleased to submit this proposal to provide
legislative and lobbying services for Monroe County's ('`the County") Federal legislative
program.
Becker & Poliakoff is based in South Florida and has represented clients in Monroe
County for many years. This local knowledge, along with our experienced team of federal
lobbyists in Washington, DC, allow us to understand the County's needs and find creative
opportunities to advance the County's federal lobbying goals. Our knowledge of the County's
budget, legislative priorities and other county issues, coupled with our ability to meet regularly
with County officials and attend County meetings, will help us translate Monroe County's needs
into federal dollars. For example, we understand Monroe County's interest in securing federal
support for water quality infrastructure projects, flood protection, and habitat conservation as
well as the County's concerns regarding the Naval Air Station in Key West, to name just a few.
We are also familiar with the County's environmental, transportation, health care and other
priorities and have outlined several interesting funding opportunities in the attached Tab C.
By way of background, Becker& Poliakoff was founded in Miami Dade County in 1973
and has maintained a fully staffed in Miami Dade since that time. Our lawyers and staff have
worked with Monroe County officials on various state and local efforts for many years. Also, our
firm represents dozens of condominium and homeowner associations throughout Monroe
County. We regularly host educational classes and seminars for residents to keep them up to date
on new laws and trends in shared ownership living.
Our Washington, DC lobbying team includes experienced lobbyists who have: 1)
represented other Florida counties on Capitol Hill and; 2) worked in both the US House of
Representatives and US Senate for Florida members on both sides of the aisle. In short, our team
knows Florida issues, Florida members,and key Congressional leaders and staff.
BE KEI
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4-4
Monroe County Purchasing Office
May 1, 2014
Page 2
It is proposed that Amanda Wood, who served as former Florida Senator Bob Graham's
Legislative Director, will lead our federal lobbying team along with firm lobbyists Omar Franco,
Clarem an Ha mi . It is tt Bmd and Jose Fuentes w
serve nce as theWillia locals liaisonsd forelen MonroeRarez County and beproposed theha"eyesJose ander ears u "ez on the ground for ourill
Federal lobbying team if we are fortunate enough to be selected to lobby on behalf of Monroe
County. Each of the "Jose's" has long time experience working locally in Monroe on priority
County issues. Jose Fuentes worked for the South Florida Water Management District; Jose
Bermudez served as Governor Rick Scott's Special Assistant for South Florida. Upon selection,
Amanda and the Jose's will meet with the Commission and appropriate staff to prioritize overall
goals and specific projects.
Our initial plan of action will include, but not be limited to:
✓ Develop an overall legislative strategy to ensure key issues are addressed;
✓ Identify opportunities and pursue legislative appropriations;
✓ Identify and pursue federal grants;
✓ Assist in developing pertinent public policy;
I Formulate strategy,testify, lobby and provide overall coordination on federal issues;
✓ Establish and maintain liaisons with federal agencies, officers, elected officials and staff
on the County's behalf;
✓ Organize and coordinate meetings between Monroe County officials and federal officials;
I Report regularly to the County.
Becker & Poliakoff is ready to begin working immediately for Monroe County. With our
local insights, kno •ge and contacts, combined with our federal presence and experience,
there is little o o le rning curve needed to start vigorously advocating for Monroe County in
Washington •C. W would consider it a privilege to do so.
Respec lly you
. 'osen
Pre '.ent& IV . .ging Shareholder
Becker& Poliakoff, P.A.
For the Firm
Attachments
Detail by Entity Name Page I of 3
Detail by Entity Name .
BECKER & POLIAKOFF, P.A.
F lin information
ilDocument Number 490721
FEI/EIN Number 591540708
Date Filed 12/22/1975
I State FL
Status ACTIVE
IlLast Event AMENDMENT
;Event Date Flied 09/15/2010
,Event Effective Date NONE
Princi;o 1 Ac';:iir6St
One East Broyiard Eou!evardl
Suite 1800
11FOR T LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
,Changed: 01/27/2014
Asa]aiiinj Address:
` ;One East Broward Boulevard
Suite 1800
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
I
Changed: 01/27/2014
edistered Agent Name & Address
ESSER, STEVEN B.
ne East Broward Boulevard
cite 1800
T LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
Jame Changed: 05/11/2001
iti,
ddress Changed: 01/28/2014
Officer/Director cer/Director Detail
L
Detail by Entity Name
Name & Address
Title TD
LEVINE, ALLEN M
One East Broward Boulevard
Suite 1800
FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
Title PD
ROSEN, GARY C
One East Broward Boulevard
Suite 1800
FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
itle SD
LESSER, STEVEN B
Dine East Broward Boulevard
Suite 1800
=ORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33301
4nnual Reports
Report Year Filed Date
2013 01 /24/2013
2014 01 /27/2014
2014 01 /28/2014
01/28/2014 -- AMENDED ANNUAL REPORT I View image in PDF format
01/27/2014
- ANNUAL REPORT
L View image in PDF format
01/24/2013 _
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
02/16/2012 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
01/07/2011 --ANNUAL.
REPORT
view image in PDF format
09/15/2010
- Amendment
View image in PDF format
02/03/2010 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
04/21/2009 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
05/16/2008
- ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
02/25/2008 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
04/09/2007 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
04/17/2006 --
ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
Page 2 of 3
IDetail by Entity Name
I HII
HII
€1
H
03/25/2005 ANNUAL _REPORT I View image in PDF for
01/28/2004 r_ ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/10/2003 -_ ANNUAL. REPORT View image in PDF format
05/13/2002 - ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
Home on ac£ Us "--F--F inn serviaas pq
05111/2001 -- ANNUAL REPORT'
01/27/2000 ANNUAL REPORT
02/20/1999 ANNUAL REPORT
01/29/1998 -- ANNUAL REPORT
View image in PDF format
View image in PDF format
View image in PDF format
View image in PDF format
01/28/1997, ANNUAL REPOR T View image in PDF format
01131/1996 TANNUAL REPOR I View image in PDFformat
01/" 1/ 199 " NNU 1L, hi=_i-�_OR 1 I View image in PDF format
4`�2`i�lq�4 --1 dn(i ?i!yac _2iICrj
5id?2 ui P!Cr•Cd. GB:Jd%[in3��C Oi _7 i'
Page 3) of)'
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TAB A COVER PAGE
TAB B QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE
PAST PERFORMANCE
TAB C APPROACH TO IMPLEMENTATION OF MONROE COUNTY'S
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
TAB D REFERENCES
TAB E RATE
TAB F REQUIRED FORMS
TAB G REQUIRED FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND LITIGATION
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TAB A: COVER PAGE
Proposal for
LEGISLATIVE AND LOBBYING SERVICES FOR
MONROE COUNTY'S
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
May 1 2014
Submitted by
Becker & Poliakoff
Jose A. Bermudez & Jose K. Fuentes
121 Alhambra Plaza, 10th Floor
Miami, Florida 33134
305.262.4433
jbermudez@bplegal.com
jfuentes@bplegal.com
Amanda L. Wo
od
1275 K Street, NW, Suite 850
Washington, DC 20005
202.621 .7122
awood cLbplegal.com
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TAB B: QUALIFICATIONS,EXPERIENCE
1. Becker& Poliakoff is a South Florida based law firm that has assisted clients in Monroe
County since its founding forty plus years ago. Today, Becker & Poliakoff is a diverse
commercial law firm with 170 lawyers, lobbyists and patent professionals working in
offices throughout Florida (Fort Lauderdale, Miramar, Miami, West Palm Beach, St.
Augustine, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Fort Walton Beach, Tampa Bay, Fort Myers,
Stuart and Naples) as well as Washington, DC, New York, New Jersey and Northern
Virginia.
The Federal lobbying work will be performed primarily in the Washington, DC and the
Miami, FL offices.
Founded in 1973, the Firm recently celebrated its 40th anniversary of serving clients.
Becker & Poliakoff provides its clients with services in seven primary practice groups:
government law& lobbying(which includes customs& international trade law), business
litigation, construction law, real estate law, homeowner and community association
law; corporate law; and intellectual property and emerging technologies. The firm's
future plans include increased growth in its core practice areas.
Government law and lobbying is and has always been a core practice for Becker &
Poliakoff. Several members of the Becker & Poliakoff team currently serve or have
served in government positions (local, state and federal), giving our team first-hand
working knowledge of government practices and procedures. In addition, the firm has
been active in Florida's civic, business, charitable and legal community for over 40 years.
We have had the pleasure of working with several current Members of Congress,
including Representative Joe Garcia, Representative Ileana Ros Lehtinen, Representative
Mario Diaz-Balart, Senator Bill Nelson, and Senator Marco Rubio for many years. Each
of them and several other Members have been good friends to the firm. In fact, Senator
Marco Rubio is a former Becker & Poliakoff attorney who has remained close to our
firm's leadership.
Members of the Becker& Poliakoff team include:
• Washington DC-based lobbyist Amanda Wood served as Legislative Director for former
Senator Bob Graham. She served as his chief advisor on all appropriations matters with a
focus on local government funding. Since leaving Capitol Hill, she has represented
Florida counties, cities, non profits and private companies;
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• Managing Director of the DC Office, Omar Franco, served as Chief of Staff for current
•
Congressman and Appropriations committee member, Mario Diaz-Balart;
• Senior Consultant, Clarence Williams, was a Chief of Staff to Congressman Kendrick B.
Meek, Ret., and a former senior policy aide to the Minority Leader of the Florida Senate;
• Jose Fuentes worked for the South Florida Water Management District;
• Jose Bermudez served as Governor Rick Scott's South Florida representative working
with all local governments and intergovernmental agencies;
• George Burgess is the firm's Chief Operating Officer and co-chair of the firm's Public
Private Partnerships Practice (PPP) team. He spent eight years as Miami Dade County's
Manager and another twenty years working for the County in various capacities;
• Founding Partner Alan Becker served in the Florida Legislature in the 1970's with
Senator Bill Nelson and has maintained a strong network of contacts at the highest levels
of government and business. He is on the Executive Committee of Enterprise Florida and
works closely with Governor Scott on job creation initiatives. In fact, Governor Scott
awarded Alan a"Florida Ambassador" for his efforts;
• Shareholder Bernie Friedman served as Chief of Staff to a South Florida Congressman;
• Shareholder Yolanda Cash Jackson has worked very closely with key Members of the
Congressional Black Caucus including Representatives Jim Clybum, Bennie Thompson,
Donna Christensen, Marcia Fudge and of course Floridians Corrine Brown, Alcee
Hastings and Frederica Wilson. As such, our team has many years of experience working
with Members of the Florida Congressional delegation on a wide variety of issues.
Becker & Poliakoff has one of the strongest relationships with the Florida Congressional
Delegation of any government affairs firm in Washington, D.C. Our team members left Capitol
Hill from senior positions with the Florida Delegation; they continue to enjoy strong
relationships with a large and diverse group of Members and staff from both sides of the aisle
from Florida and elsewhere around the country. As former Chiefs of Staff, both Omar Franco
and Clarence Williams participate in the Chiefs of Staff alumni group which affords them
opportunities to develop relationships with Members and senior staff from all 50 states.
Over the past five years, Becker & Poliakoff has averaged 375 employees. We currently have
425 employees. The firm is lead by a seven member management committee made up of firm
shareholders. Gary C. Rosen serves as President and Managing Shareholder. George Burgess
serves as the Firm's Chief Operating Officer overseeing the administration along with
administrative department heads in Accounting, Human Resources, IT, Professional
Development and Marketing. A list of the Firm's equity shareholders is provided in the
confidential submission in TAB G.
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2. Provide a list of current clients,with a brief description for each.
FEDERAL LOBBYING CLIENTS
Algenol Biofuels Bethune-Cookman University
Contract dollar value: $36,000 Contract dollar value: $36,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 7/26/2011 Duration of the Relationship: Since 3/25/2005
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Successfully helped pass legislation Results: Developed and implemented
giving algae tax parity along with cellulosic institutional advancement strategy
biofuel.
Dr. Hakim Lucas,Vice President of
Quang Ha,General Counsel Advancement
16121 Lee Road, Suite 110 640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd.
Ft. Myers, FL 33912 Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3099
(239)498-2000 (386)481-2983
City of Delray Beach City of Hialeah
Contract dollar value: $36,000 Contract dollar value: $60,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 9/1/2013 Duration of the Relationship: Since 5/6/2009
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Currently working on seeking federal Results: $750,000 for sidewalk improvements
guidance on sober home rules. and police equipment upgrades
Terrill Pyburn,Assistant City Attorney Fredrick Marinelli,Grants Administrator
200 NW 1st Avenue 501 Palm Ave.
Delray Beach, FL 33444 Hialeah, FL 33010
(561) 243-7090 (305) 883-5839
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City of Hialeah Gardens City of Miami Gardens
Contract dollar value: 0 Contract dollar value: $24,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 8/27/2010 Duration of the Relationship: Since 3/30/2005
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Identified numerous grant Results: Secured $1.250 in Law Enforcement
opportunities. funding
William Rodriguez, Assistant to the Mayor Mr. Cedric Benson,City Manager
10001 NW 87th Avenue 1515 NW 167 Street
Hialeah Gardens, FL 33016 Miami Gardens, FL 33169
(305) 558-4114 (305)622-8000
City of North Bay Village City of Opa-Locka
Contract dollar value: $30,000 Contract dollar value: $30,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 2/26/2008 Duration of the Relationship: Since 2/16/1999
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: $5.125 million for a force main Results: Secured $2.1 m in infrastructure
pipeline rehabilitation and a bus facility. funding.
Robert Pushkin,Assistant City Manager Mr. Kelvin Baker, City Manager
1700 Kennedy Causeway, #132 780 Fisherman Street, 4th Floor
North Bay Village, FL 33141 Opa-Locka, FL 33054
(305) 756-7171 (305) 953-2821
Deval LLC Florida Crystals
Contract dollar value: $60,000 Contract dollar value: $60,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 3/8/2013 Duration of the Relationship: Since 6/28/2013
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Successfully advocated for prolonging Results: Successfully advocated for inclusion
their national loan servicing contract. of Everglades Restoration projects in the Water
Resources Development Act re-authorization.
Deborah Garcia-Gratacos, President
8230 Leesburg Pike, Suite 708 Gaston Cantens,Vice President
Tysons Corner, VA 22182 1 N. Clematis St., Suite 200, West Palm Beach,
Phone: 703.962.1879 FL 33401; (561)366-5128
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Intuit Signal Above
Contract dollar value: $90,000 Contract dollar value: $36,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 12/1/2010 Duration of the Relationship: Since 10/2013
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Successfully inserted report language Results: Currently working on report language
in the Financial Services Appropriation bill regarding low power television broadcasters
regarding Return Free program. and the spectrum auction.
Anthony Bedell,Corporate Affairs Mike Gravino
7535 Torrey Santa Fe Road 8280 Greensboro Drive, 7th Floor
San Diego,CA 92129 McLean, VA 22102
Phone:202.484.1494 Phone: 703-761-5000
Palm Beach County Palantir Technologies
Contract dollar value: $36,000 Contract dollar value: $75,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 7/19/2011 Duration of the Relationship: Since 5/4/2011
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Successfully advocated for the delay in Results: Obtained Congressional Member
the implementation of the FEMA flood maps support to remove contracting obstacle.
for the flood insurance program.
Todd Bonlarron, Public Affairs Director Lori Baylor,Contract Administrator
301 N. Olive Avenue 100 Hamilton Avenue, Suite 300
West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Palo Alto, CA 94301
(561) 355-3451 Phone:650.473.9158
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Secure Wrap of Miami, Inc. Hi-G-Tek
Contract dollar value: $12,000 Contract dollar value: $7,500
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 2/27/2004 Duration of the Relationship: Since June 2012
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Successfully inserted legislative Results: Introduced capabilities to
language in the TSA re-authorization bill Congressional members and staff.
dealing with vendor security enhancements.
Elio Oliva
Enrique Ramos,CEO 1445 Research Blvd., Suite 150
4050 NW 29th Street Rockville, MD 20850
Miami, FL 33142 Phone: 301-917-2946
Phone: 305.582.3150
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Town of Davie STS International
Contract dollar value: $40,000 Contract dollar value: $84,000
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Duration of the Relationship: Since 5/1/2013 Duration of the Relationship: Since 3/1/2012
Services Provided: Lobbying Services Provided: Lobbying
Results: Currently working on a FEMA appeal Results: Secured$25m in DOD procurement
regarding Hurricane Wilma reimbursements. authorization.
Richard Lemack,Town Administrator
6591 Orange Drive Ted Morgan,CEO& President
Davie, FL 33314 204 Sand Mine Road, PO Box 10
(954) 797-1030 Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 301.320.3798
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The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Florida Yacht Brokers Association
Violence Contract dollar value: $30,000
Contract dollar value: $48,000 Dates for term of contract: Ongoing
Dates for term of contract: Ongoing Duration of the Relationship: Since January
Duration of the Relationship: Since November 2014
2013 Services Provided: Lobbying
Services Provided: Lobbying Results: Currently working on establishing a
Results: Secured $1.5 million for public health new central listing bond for foreign vessels.
and safety campaigns
Bob Zarchen
Daniel Gross 1550 SE 15th Ave
840 First Street, NE, Suite 400 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Washington, DC 20002 (954) 522-9270
202-289-5786
i
3. Names, titles, qualifications of all key personnel.
Resumes of Key Personnel
rAmanda Wood, Senior, Government Affairs Consultant
Lead Federal Lobbyist for Monroe County
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Experience:
Amanda Wood is registered as a federal lobbyist representing municipal,
corporate and nonprofit clients on matters related to transportation,
J economic development, natural resources, law enforcement, and social
services in Washington, DC. She joined Becker & Poliakoff in 2013 and began her lobbying
career in 2005.
She previously served as Legislative Director to Senator Bob Graham, where she was
responsible for developing and implementing the Senator's legislative agenda and strategy.
While serving as the Senator's chief advisor on federal appropriations, Ms. Wood worked closely
with representatives from Florida cities, counties, educational institutions, nonprofit
organizations, and state agencies to advocate for federal funding for projects ranging from
transportation infrastructure improvements to water quality and flood protection, tourism,
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economic development and cultural projects. Amanda also worked as a legislative assistant for
the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.
As a Senior Government Relations Consultant at Becker& Poliakoff, Amanda's primary focus is
assisting clients with federal funding needs. Her experience as senior legislative staff on Capitol
Hill provides the skills to represent clients on matters ranging from post-hurricane FEMA policy
changes to Everglades preservation. The percentage of time spent for each client varies
depending on the legislative schedule and priorities of each client.
Significant Client Accomplishments:
• U.S. Highway 331 and the Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge are the only routes in Walton
County for residents from the southern portion of Walton County to travel to the northern
portion. Amanda Wood assisted them in securing $332,500 in federal transportation
funding to support additional design, right of way and construction to provide
enhancements to this route in order to allow for additional capacity for evacuation
purposes and regional economic development. This represented the first federal
investment in this project and has since resulted in a re-prioritization of this project by
Florida DOT and an expedited construction timetable.
• Since the explosion and fire on BP's Deepwater Horizon in the summer of 2010, Amanda
Wood has been working on behalf of Collier County and Gulf County to support
legislation to compensate impacted counties and restore habitat. The RESTORE Act
became law in the summer of 2012 and holds the parties responsible for the Gulf oil
disaster accountable for restoring the Gulf. By investing fines owed by BP and the other
parties responsible for the Gulf oil spill into the Gulf region, the RESTORE Act will
provide significant financial resources to both Counties. Precise funding levels will not
be determined until fines are levied against BP under the Clean Water Act, which is
expected to occur very soon.
• Over a period of three fiscal years, Amanda Wood assisted Collier County in securing
$2.1 million in federal funding for transportation infrastructure to support improvements
to two key interchanges on I-75 at Everglades Boulevard and Collier Boulevard/SR 84.
These improvements were critically needed to provide access to a route for safe
evacuations from storms and fires as significant growth continues in Collier County.
In addition, for private sector clients, Amanda trains their sales teams to communicate effectively
with their local government clients and helps them identify and pursue funds for local
government acquisition needs. She provides strategic advice to sales teams and guides clients
and prospects through the funding process, including review of grant applications. She achieves
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success through direct communication with sales targets and research regarding community-
specific federal funding opportunities.
Amanda is a longtime board member and former President of the Florida State Society, an
organization that brings together Floridians who live and work in Washington, D.C., and served
as Co-chair of the 2013 Florida Inaugural Ball Committee. She also serves as a Member of the
Board of Directors of the Latin American Youth Center in Washington, DC.
Jose A. Bermudez, Senior Government Relations Consultant
Local Co-Liaison with Monroe County and Federal Team
Miami Dade Community College
- p Experience:
Jose A. Bermudez is a local government relations professional in the firm's
- Government Law & Lobbying team. He joined the firm in 2014 when he
began his lobbying career. He is a Senior Government Relations Consultant in
our Coral Gables office. Jose most recently served as Special Assistant to
Governor Rick Scott for the South Florida region. Jose served as liaison of the Governor's office
to state agencies, and the Governor in all local governments and intergovernmental agencies
Prior to joining the office of the Governor, Jose served as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Miami
Beach, where he oversaw one of the most ambitious capital improvement programs in the City's
history. This program of "Planned Progress" rebuilt streets, upgraded infrastructure such as
drainage systems and water lines, renovated and rebuilt many City assets and built new facilities
for parks and entertainment venues. Jose has also had the pleasure to serve in the White House
Advance office under President George W. Bush and oversaw several international missions.
Jose K. Fuentes, Senior Government Relations Consultant
Local Co-Liaison with Monroe County and Federal Team
St. Thomas University
ik --I( Experience:
`• .44'`' Jose Fuentes is a native Floridian with a strongnetwork of contacts and over
o
4 25 years of experience working in the government and political arenas. He
4 is a local government relations professional who represents local
- municipalities, other public bodies and private sector clients in
environmental, infrastructure and water resources primarily at the state and
local levels. He joined Becker& Poliakoff in 2013 and began his lobbying career in 1991.
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He previously served as Managing Partner of The Fuentes & Rodriguez Consulting Group. He is
well-known in political circles as a leading provider of strategic lobbying, and business
development solutions in Florida. In the past, Mr. Fuentes served as Regional Director of
Miami-Dade County's South Florida Water Management District, Director of Hispanic Affairs
for the Cuban American Legislators from Miami-Dade County, Legislative Aide for Rep. Rudy
Garcia, Director of the Office of the Speaker of the Florida House, Assistant to U.S. Senator
Connie Mack, Government Liaison to the Board of County Commissioners.
Mr. Fuentes is committed to public service as proven through his community, civic and volunteer
work. Most recently, he was appointed by Governor Rick Scott to the Board of Trustees of
Miami-Dade College, the largest and most diverse college in the nation. He was also asked to
serve as Chairman of the Governmental Affairs Committee of the Greater Miami Chamber of
Commerce where he has played a key role in engaging the Chamber to support the High Speed
Rail construction program. Currently, Mr. Fuentes is a board member of the City of Miami
Waterfront Advisory Board, City Year Miami and St. Thomas University. He is a member of the
Mayor's International Council and serves on the Executive Committee of the Miami-Dade
County Republican Party. Mr. Fuentes is past Chairman of both United Home Care Services and
the Miami-Dade County Asian American Advisory Board.
Mr. Fuentes has been honored by the Diabetes Association with the "Valor Award" for
community service, and the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with the "Annual
Sunshine Award" as Public Official of the Year. He is included in Who's Who of Asian
Americans and has been featured in numerous occasions in The Miami Herald for his devotion to
community service and for his pride in his Cuban/Japanese Heritage. He was a finalist for the
Price Waterhouse Up & Corners Award
Omar Franco Senior Government Relations Consultant
Member, Monroe County Federal Lobbying Team
Florida State University
Experience:
Mr. Franco is registered as a federal lobbyist representing municipal,
corporate and nonprofit clients on matters related to transportation,
economic development, natural resources, technology, and social services
in Washington, DC. He joined Becker & Poliakoff in 2011 and began his
lobbying career in 1999. He is the Managing Director of the Washington
D.C. office. He was named one of the nation's most powerful Hispanic lobbyists by Latino
magazine. He serves on the Board of Directors for the American League of Lobbyists (ALL)
where he completed the ALL's Lobbying Certificate Program (LCP). Omar's client base includes
Florida Yacht Brokers Association, Hi-G-Tek, Intuit, Florida Crystals, Algenol Biofuels, Secure
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Wrap, Signal Above, Deval LLC, Hi-G-Tek, Palm Beach County, FL, and the municipalities of
Davie, Delray Beach, Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens, and North Bay Village, FL, among others. The
percentage of time spent for each client varies depending on the legislative calendar and
priorities of each client.
Mr. Franco began federal lobbying in 1999 when he became Director of Governmental Relations
for the University of Miami's School of Medicine. In 2001, University of Miami President
Donna Shalala promoted him to Assistant Vice President of Governmental Relations where he
represented the university at both the federal and state levels of government and primarily
worked on appropriations and health care issues. In 2003, he was named Chief of Staff for
Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL). Omar held this position for over four years, managing
the Congressman's Washington D.C. and district operations and closely counseling the
Congressman in his areas of expertise which include federal appropriations, health care,
transportation, higher education and issues dealing with Hispanics and the state of Florida.
During his tenure, Omar assisted in founding the Congressional Hispanic Conference and the
Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute.
Active in Hispanic political organizations, he serves as the President of the Hispanic Lobbyist
Association (HLA) after having served on the Board of Directors for five years. Omar also
serves on the Corporate Advisory Board of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute
(CHLI). He is a member of the Republican National Hispanic Association and the Latino
Executive Advisory Panel for the Hispanic Leadership Network. In addition, he is the federal
lobbyist for the Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino. He was awarded a U.S.
Speaker and Specialist grant by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International
Information Programs to participate in a program on the 2012 U.S. Presidential Elections and the
U.S. Electoral Process in Chile and Paraguay.
Clarence Williams Government Relations Consultant
Member, Monroe County Federal Lobbying Team
Florida State University
Experience:
Mr. Williams is registered as a federal lobbyist representing municipal,
corporate and nonprofit clients on matters related to education, defense, health
care, technology, and social services in Washington, DC. He joined Becker&
Poliakoff in 2011 and began his lobbying career in 2008. He is a former Chief of Staff for
Congressman Kendrick B. Meek of Florida; he served as the Congressman's chief policy advisor
and strategist on all issues before the U.S. House of Representatives. He directly managed the
Congressman's portfolio of issues relating to the Committees on Ways and Means, Armed
Services, Homeland Security, and Budget.
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Since leaving Capitol Hill, Mr. Williams advocates on behalf of a broad range of clients and
topics, including Palm Beach County, the Cities of Opa Locka and Miami Gardens, the Town of
Davie, Florida Memorial University, Bethune-Cookman University, Palantir Technologies, STS
International Inc., Intuit, Hi G Tek, DEVAL Inc., and Meridian Partners, among others. The
percentage of time spent for each client varies depending on the legislative calendar and
priorities of each client.
Among several accomplishments on his clients' behalf, he was able to:
• Aid Florida Memorial in obtaining $12 million in capital funds from the Department of
Education;
■ Orchestrate the release of over $1 million in sequestered grant funds for a capital project
in Opa Locka while simultaneously negotiating funds from the State Revolving Fund
totaling just under$1 million for a related project in Opa Locka;
• Work with the Department of Transportation's FAA to maintain the operation of the
Executive Airport in Opa Locka in the face of widespread contract tower closing. Opa
Locka was one of only 24 airports to remain open of the original 177 slated for closing;
• Secure a $25 million authorization in the National Defense Authorization Act for client,
STS International Inc.
On Capitol Hill, he specialized in issues involving health care, armed services, taxation,
alternative energy, local government issues, and domestic and international trade. He is uniquely
qualified in issues relating to health care reform, having logged well over 100 hours in briefings,
consultation, and collaboration on legislative language with Ways and Means and House
leadership staff on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Additionally, he was actively
involved in the passage of several pieces of tax policy, including a delay of a 3%tax withholding
requirement for most procurement by local governments.
As primary liaison for Mr. Meek to appropriations staff, Clarence shepherded nearly $53 million
directly to South Florida local governments, nearly $20 million to educational entities, and over
$13 million to South Florida hospitals and community centers. As well, he negotiated with Heath
and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to advance payments totaling $12
million to Jackson Health Systems to help avoid shut down of this important institution.
Activities and Memberships
■ American League of Lobbyists
• Congressional Chiefs of Staff Alumni Association
• Department of Defense Top Secret Security Clearance
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• Florida State University, B.A.
Helena Ramirez Government Relations Consultant
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Member, Monroe County Federal Lobbying Team
i :,n ..; Florida International University
Experience:
Ms. Ramirez is a Government Relations Consultant with Becker & Poliakoff's
Government Law and Lobbying Team in the Washington, D.C. office. Helena
works closely with firm clients to advance their interests at the Federal level
and monitors legislative and regulatory issues that impact their various industries. Prior to
Becker & Poliakoff, Helena worked for the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute in
Washington, D.C. where her focus was to help the organization reach the multitude for the
1 advancement of the Hispanic community. She managed programs directed at leadership
development, congressional outreach, and international outreach.
Helena helped with the 2012 Republican National Convention, assisting with first ever Hispanic
digital outreach strategy with Digital Communications and Specialty Media teams. She is fluent
in Spanish.
Helena sits on the Cabinet of College Leadership Florida, a highly selective program through
Leadership Florida that helps Florida's most talented collegiate leaders prepare for careers in the
public and private sectors using their knowledge, leadership skills, and newly created statewide
connections to benefit Florida. Helena served as a University Trustee for Florida International
University, representing over 42,000 students at the nation's largest Hispanic serving institution
of higher learning. She played an important role in allocating a $12.3 million budget for student
services.
4 4. Unique Characteristics of Becker& Poliakoff s Federal Lobbying Team
Like many Washington DC lobbying teams, we have:
1) Excellent relationships with key congressional members and staff,
as well as federal agency officials who are in positions to guide
funding levels and program decisions.
2) A proven track record of success on behalf of many clients in
Washington, DC.
3) Many long term lobbying clients who have renewed our contract
multiple times despite changes in leadership in the City or County
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and difficult budget years including moratoriums on federal
funding and earmarks.
However, what truly sets our lobbying team apart is our local/federal lobbying model which
provides these unique characteristics:
1) A local presence in South Florida and an intimate knowledge of Monroe County
priority issues;
2) An ability to participate year-round in Monroe County meetings and site visits;
1 3) An experienced team of Floridians who are Federal lobbyists with hyper focus on
South Florida issues based on their history of working for Florida Members on many of
Monroe County's highest priority issues.
Our local liaisons, Jose Fuentes and Jose Bermudez will participate in Monroe County meetings
and activities to provide guidance to our Federal Lobbying team year round. In addition, our
Federal lobbying team members visit Florida regularly and will be available to tour key sites and
participate in meetings as requested.
TAB B PAST PERFORMANCE
5. Describe the firm's success in representing county/local government issues at the
federal level.
Name of Client: Walton County, Florida
Nature of Issue: Evacuation Route Funding
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Funding Success
Key Professionals: Amanda Wood, managed and implemented
U.S. Highway 331 and the Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge are the only routes in Walton County for
residents from the southern portion of Walton County to travel to the northern portion. Amanda
Wood assisted them in securing $332,500 in federal transportation funding to support additional
1design, right of way and construction to provide enhancements to this route in order to allow for
additional capacity for evacuation purposes and regional economic development. This
represented the first federal investment in this project and has since resulted in a re-prioritization
of this project by Florida DOT and an expedited construction timetable.
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Name of Client:Nature of Issue: Gulf County, Florida
Oil Spill Impact Funding
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Legislative/Funding Success
Key Professionals: Amanda Wood, managed and implemented
Since the explosion and fire on BP's Deepwater Horizon in the summer of 2010, Amanda Wood
worked on behalf of Collier County and Gulf County to support legislation to compensate
impacted counties and restore habitat. The RESTORE Act became law in the summer of 2012
and holds the parties responsible for the Gulf oil disaster accountable for restoring the Gulf. By
investing fines owed by BP and the other parties responsible for the Gulf oil spill into the Gulf
region, the RESTORE Act will provide significant financial resources to both Counties. Precise
funding levels will not be determined until fines are levied against BP under the Clean Water
Act, which is expected to occur very soon.
Name of Client: Collier County, Florida
Nature of Issue: Transportation Infrastructure Funding
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Funding Success
Key Professionals: Amanda Wood, managed and implemented
Over a period of three fiscal years, Amanda Wood assisted Collier County in securing $2.1
million in federal funding for transportation infrastructure to support improvements to two key
interchanges on I-75 at Everglades Boulevard and Collier Boulevard/SR 84. These
improvements were critically needed to provide access to a route for safe evacuations from
storms and fires as significant growth continues in Collier County.
Name of Client: Palm Beach County, Florida
Nature of Issue: Policy Clarification
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Ongoing Engagement with Congress and HUD
Key Professionals: Omar Franco, managed and implemented
We have been asked to seek clarification from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) concerning their interpretation of the Fair Housing Amendments Act
regarding sober houses. While there has been a joint statement put out but both the Department
of Justice and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the County feels there is an
urgent need to clarify the Fair Housing Amendments Act by the HUD Department and its
application to sober homes. Since the County feels that the courts have applied the Act
inconsistently, a great burden has been placed on local governments because of an over-
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concentration of sober homes in single-family residential communities. As a result of this
inconsistent application,there is confusion regarding the rights and abilities of local governments
to apply their local regulations to these homes. With a lack of oversight of sober homes, there
has been increasing abuse and exploitation of the residents. Therefore, a clarification from HUD
regarding what actions may be taken to protect the safety of the residents of these homes. Palm
Beach County is also suggesting that HUD clarify its interpretation of the Act as it applies to
Single Family Zoning Districts. One such clarification would be for HUD to provide a better
definition of "currently using drugs or alcohol". Another clarification of the Act could be to
provide that sober homes may be somewhat limited in single family zoning districts everywhere
due to the more frequent turnover of a sober house dwelling unit as a result of the sober house
resident's ability to quickly change status. HUD could also clarify the Act to provide for
limitations of sober houses within single family zoning districts by providing an allotted
percentage of sober houses to non-sober houses within each single family zoning district or by
limiting them by location (no closer than 500 feet from one another) in order to avoid
overconcentration of sober houses. Finally, HUD could provide clarification that sober houses
must comply with the local zoning regulations pertaining to the number of unrelated persons
allowed per dwelling unit and/or the number of allowed turnovers in occupancy of a dwelling
unit without requiring that a reasonable accommodation must be granted for single family zoning
districts only. This would allow someone with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy
a dwelling without fundamentally altering the zoning scheme of a single family zoning district.
Name of Client: North Bay Village, FL
Nature of Issue: Funding
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Funding Success
Key Professionals: Omar Franco, managed and implemented
For forty-two years, wastewater from North Bay Village was pumped through the same pipe
travelling more than two miles to Miami Beach to be processed. This force main pipeline rested
on the floor of Biscayne Bay and was exposed to hazards such as impacts from boats. Damage to
the pipe was accelerated by corrosion and age. This pipeline had caused six spill accidents and
was causing continued environmental damage and health risks to North Bay Village and all the
surrounding communities. Team members began working with North Bay Village to see if
federal funding would be available to begin work on this project. Working closely with Senator
Bill Nelson and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz's office, we resubmitted the
appropriations request. After several years of work, North Bay Village received notification that
they had been awarded $4,655,012 to completely rehabilitate the existing 12,000 feet of 12-inch
force main that crosses the Biscayne Bay.
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Name of Client: City of Opa Locka, Florida
Nature of Issue: STAG Award Sequestration
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Funding Success
Key Professionals: Clarence Williams, managed and implemented
The City of Opa Locka applied for and received a STAG grant award from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency for the overhaul of two sanitary lift stations. The award,
however, was contingent upon approvals from four different agencies. During the process, the
federal government shut down, causing all grants in the process to be either postponed or
canceled outright. Unfortunately, the two lift stations completely failed, which required
immediate action. Working with a Member of Congress and Federal and regional EPA
representatives, we were able to have the approval requirements waived for the City. The next
hurdle involved acquisition of the funds - approximately$1.2 million - during a period where all
awards were put on "hold" while Congress and White House dueled over funding issues. Mr.
Williams arranged meetings with the State Revolving Fund officials in coordination with EPA
officials to provide the City with SRF funds while they awaited the release of the federal award.
In working through this coordinated effort, the City of Opa Locka not only received over
$900,000 from the SRF, but was allowed to keep and use the funds regardless of whether they
received the federal funds. We further succeeded in moving the release of their STAG grant. In
all, the City received approximately$2.1 million for the infrastructure projects.
Name of Client: City of Opa Locka, Florida
Nature of Issue: Opa Locka Executive Airport Tower Closing
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Executive Action Success
Key Professionals: Clarence Williams, managed and implemented
In March of 2013, the FAA announced it would close 165 control towers run by FAA contractors
because of mandatory budget cuts known as the sequester. The towers, at mostly small airports
with fewer than 150,000 takeoffs and landings a year, included Opa Locka Executive Airport.
The airport is responsible for nearly $100 million in direct economic impact and over 2,400 jobs
in the area. We were able to use connections at the FAA to immediately make the City's case -
regarding the economic impact, air safety, and disaster response implications of closing this
airport- that its tower should remain open. Coordinating support from the entire South Florida
delegation, we were successful in Opa Locka Airport being one of only 24 regional airports of
the original 165 to remain open and operational.
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Name of Client: City of Miami Gardens, Florida
Nature of Issue: COPS Grant
Outcome of the
Lobbying Efforts: Funding Success
Key Professionals: Clarence Williams, managed and implemented
1 The City of Miami Gardens applied to the U.S. Department of Justice for a Community Police
Hiring Program grant to hire new officers. Prior to the application being made, we arranged a
series of high-level meetings with officials at DOJ and within Congress to support the City's
need for more police officers. Despite the Agency's desire that the 2013 round be dedicated to
putting more law enforcement personnel in schools after the devastating Sandy Hook tragedy, we
were able to convince them of the dire need for a greater law enforcement presence on the streets
in Miami Gardens. The City was subsequently awarded $1,250,000 to hire ten new police
officers.
6. Describe firm's success at the federal level related to specific areas/issues of
relevance to Monroe:
1 A. Environment and Natural Resources
Monroe County has been recognized as a community that strives to be responsible stewards of
your resources and you have taken many steps in the areas of energy use reduction, water
conservation, and resource recovery. As home to 32 federally threatened and endangered species
and 9 nationally protected areas, including the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the
Everglades, we know that your natural resources are a great source of pride. As the County
works to expand upon these efforts, we will seek partnerships with federal agencies to secure
federal investment in county projects that have the ability to conserve natural resources while
creating sustainable, responsible long-term economic development.
We understand that the County has an interest in acquiring vacant, privately owned land
containing suitable habitat for and known populations of federally-designated wildlife species as
well as acquiring conservation lands that also serve as military buffer zones. Through her work
as federal representative for the National Recreation and Park Association, Amanda Wood has
advocated for increased federal investments in land acquisition and stewardship, including full
funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the largest federal funding vehicle
for land acquisition. Having identified such varied funding stream examples such as LWCF,
NOAA's Coastal and Estuarine Lands Program, and the CDC's Community Transformation
Grant, we are eager to advocate for the federal resources necessary to advance these projects for
the County.
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Since the explosion and fire on BP's Deepwater Horizon in the summer of 2010, Amanda Wood
worked on behalf of Collier County and Gulf County, Florida to support passage of the
RESTORE Act, which aims to compensate impacted counties and restore habitat and achieved
passage in the summer of 2012. By investing fines owed by BP and the other parties responsible
for the Gulf oil spill into the Gulf region, the RESTORE Act will provide resources to Monroe
County.
The 15 non-disproportionately impacted counties like Monroe will receive funding based on a
formula that considers the weighted average of the population of the county, the weighted
average of the county per capita sales tax collections estimated for fiscal year 2012, and the
weighted average distance from the Deepwater Horizon oil rig to each of the nearest and farthest
points of the shoreline. As you know, precise funding levels will not be determined until fines
are levied against BP under the Clean Water Act, which is expected to occur very soon.
We are eager to work with Monroe County staff to position the County for success in securing a
portion of the 30 percent (up to $6.3 billion) to be distributed by a Federal-State Ecosystem
Restoration council comprised of six federal members and five state members and the 30 percent
(up to $6.3 billion) to pay for state proposals for environmental restoration and economic
recovery work. We are prepared to work with County staff to identify all opportunities, develop
criteria and processes for project selection and assist with the draw down of these funds.
As the Treasury Department moves toward publication of final implementing rules for the
legislation, we will work with you to ensure that Congressional intent is preserved related to the
formula by which non-disproportionately impacted counties like Monroe will receive their funds
and will engage the delegation to ensure that there is proper oversight of the process.
B. Water Quality
The team at Becker & Poliakoff works regularly with Congress, federal water agencies, and our
municipal clients to improve existing policies and enact new legislation to broaden access to
federal funding grants and create new financing sources to help deal with the complex water
challenges of today and tomorrow.
Note that this team will be led by Amanda Wood, the former Legislative Director for Senator
Bob Graham of Florida. Amanda served on Senator Graham's staff until his retirement in 2005
and worked cooperatively with staff throughout the delegation to advance and achieve passage of
the Florida Keys Water Quality Improvement Act (PL 106-554) to improve the quality of near
shore waters within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary by creating a dedicated funding
source the implementation and construction of wastewater and storm water master plans in the
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Keys. To date, this legislation has resulted in over $35,000,000 in federal investments in sewer
infrastructure and we would like to assist you in drawing down additional funding based on this
authorization. Additionally, we understand that the County is interested in inclusion of
unincorporated Monroe County's water quality infrastructure projects in the authorization after
the completion of funding for the current authorization, and we are prepared to assist with that as
well.
We have also worked on behalf of several Florida counties on similar projects, including
authorizations through the Water Resources Development Act, funding in a post-earmark era by
working with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Corps Headquarters and
Jacksonville offices, and facilitating Project Cooperation Agreements. We have secured and
expanded federal authorizations and funding throughout the State of Florida for projects to
improve water quality, including in Collier and Charlotte County.
Recently, through established relationships at both the federal and state Clean Water offices of
the EPA and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), we have shown success in
garnering funds for local water projects outside of the sometimes stagnant legislative process.
For client, the City of Opa Locka, we worked with the Bureau Chief for the State Revolving
Fund program at EPA in tandem with the State Revolving Loan Fund Director for Florida DEP
to coordinate the reprioritization of SRF funds during the initial round of sequestration. In so
doing, we obtained the support of the EPA to get just over$1 million from DEP for a wastewater
project the City was stalled on while awaiting a grant from the federal government. The EPA
further allowed that the federal grant Opa Locka needed could be used for a second infrastructure
project when the money was finally released to them, netting an additional $1.2 million for our
client.
It is also important to note that we are advocating for a provision currently pending in the Water
Resources Development Act providing for a Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation
Authority (WIFIA), which would allow access to low-cost, long-term financing for a variety of
water resource-related projects by cities. The WIFIA proposals currently being considered in
both the House and Senate would help substantially reduce the cost of financing water
infrastructure projects, creating a benefit for many municipalities that will approach the
equivalent of a grant equal to 20 percent of the total cost of a project. WIFIA has gained support
because it would allow lawmakers to leverage a relatively modest investment into significant
new water infrastructure improvements. Every dollar appropriated would provide project
sponsors with access to $15 in low-cost, long-term financing, all largely without scoring in the
annual budget process. Specifically, $100 million appropriated for a WIFIA program would
support the construction of $1.5 billion or more in water infrastructure projects. In the federal
budget process, an appropriation of$100 million to a WIFIA program would likely result in only
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a $4 and $7 million charge against federal outlays, making it a cost-effective way for the federal
Ngovernment to provide much needed water infrastructure assistance to counties like Monroe.
C. Transportation
A review of your long range transportation and economic development plans has provided us
with a good sense of your commitment to improving the mobility of residents and visitors while
supporting critical economic development in the County. Through highway and interchange
infrastructure and enhanced transit, all of these goals can be met. One successful strategy that
we have employed for other similar clients is to make sure that Monroe County is viewed by the
federal agencies as a resource for information on which federal programs are working well and
how changes in federal policies will affect them.
As we work to develop federal partnerships to support Monroe County's transportation and
transit infrastructure needs, we will also look for opportunities to apply for and succeed in
1 drawing down federal grants. In the most recent round, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony
Foxx announced that 52 transportation projects in 37 states will receive a total of approximately
$474 million from USDOT's Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery
(TIGER) 2013 discretionary grant program. If submitted with the appropriate project, this
program may be able to provide opportunities for federal partnerships in the County.
Additionally, we can assist in the use of the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation
Act (TIFIA) credit assistance program to advance local projects. The program received a vast
increase in funding in the MAP-21 law from $122 million annually to $750 million in FY13.
Because of the complexity of this program, we have developed relationships with key US DOT
officials who can assist us as we consider the use of TIFIA for your projects.
In Southwest Florida, over the course of four fiscal years Amanda Wood assisted Charlotte
County. Florida in securing more than $5,000,000 in federal funding for key local transportation
corridors including the Englewood Interstate Connector, Burnt Store Road, and US 41
Enhancements. Additionally, she worked with Collier County to secure $2.1 million in federal
funding for transportation infrastructure to support improvements to two key interchanges on I-
75 at Everglades Boulevard and Collier Boulevard/SR 84. These improvements were critically
needed to provide access to a route for safe evacuations from storms and fires as significant
growth continues in Collier County.
Should needs exceed available public resources, the County will also have access to our Public
Private Partnership practice team with attorneys and other professionals that have experience
developing public private partnerships in order to assist government entities fill the void created
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when public demands exceed public available funds but can be met with private investment.
Such partnerships are being developed all over Florida to meet a variety of public purposes.
4 D. Health and Human Services
A primary goal of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) is to significantly
reduce the number of uninsured by providing a continuum of affordable coverage options
through Medicaid and new Health Insurance Exchanges. In so doing, net savings can be achieved
at the state and local levels, especially in states like Florida, where the state requires counties to
share in its match portion. While Florida Health Choices, the Florida Legislature's substitute for
ACA in the wake of opting out of Medicaid expansion and its attendant $51 billion in funding, is
up and running,the program has only one vendor as no major insurers have signed on.
At the same time, the state had hoped that more Medicaid funding from the federal government
might mute the impact of"tiering"as implemented in Florida law. In its November application to
renew the Medicaid managed care program, Florida also requested an expansion of its $1 billion
"Low Income Pool" (LIP) program. Under that proposal, the money that helps provide health
services to poor and uninsured Floridians would be combined with other Medicaid funding
programs and increased to $4.5 billion annually.
Unfortunately, the federal government told Florida on April 11 to that the status quo would remain
in place for another year. The letter from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services'
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services outlined a one-year extension of the LIP fund and
two other supplemental programs that together total about$2.2 billion.
Florida, and by extension Monroe County, could achieve additional savings falling into three
main categories: increased federal matching rates for current-law beneficiaries other than those
covered through 1115 waivers or limited benefit programs; reduced state spending on non-
Medicaid health care previously furnished to uninsured residents with incomes below 138% of
the federal poverty line; and additional revenue, including general revenue increases caused by
the boost to state economic activity that would result from increased federal Medicaid dollars
being spent within the state. Our goal would be to continue working with Congress to realize
these savings either through a reversal of the state's position on Medicaid expansion or through
an increase in funds related to the state's renewal of its managed care program. Any savings
realized would likely benefit Monroe County in the form of reduced matching requirements.
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E. Federal agencies such as FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, and EPA
We understand that the County water resource and flood protection needs that will require
coordination with the US Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA). Be assured that we have experience negotiating with federal agencies to find
common ground and ensure that the County has the best possible outcome both with regards to
the substantive debate and perception battle in the press and public.
We have worked on behalf of several Florida counties projects with these agencies, including
authorizations through the Water Resources Development Act, funding in a post-earmark era by
working with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Corps Headquarters and
Jacksonville offices,and facilitating Project Cooperation Agreements.
In the unfortunate event that Monroe County experiences a windstorm event, our team has
experience with first and second appeals of FEMA public works determinations including on
behalf of Florida counties post-Gustav and post—Charlie and we are currently representing the
Town of Davie on a first appeal with FEMA Region IV. Unfortunately, FEMA often denies
g legitimate funding for public works reimbursements and experience. A solid strategy and
tenacity are essential to success, along with engaging the delegation in support. As is necessary,
we have significant experience partnering with the Florida Department of Emergency
Management to advance these projects.
Another example is our experience on military issues. Monroe County is asking the Navy to
evaluate the baseline condition for existing operations at Naval Air Station in Key West.
Specifically, the impacts associated with the FA-18E/F Super Hornet were included in the FEIS
baseline notwithstanding the fact that this aircraft was not properly evaluated in past
environmental documentation. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon situation with regard to
the Hornet and Super Hornet with similar complaints litigated in places like Coupeville, WA and
Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA among a host of other locations. While the Navy is moving
forward with new regiment of evaluations on the Super Hornet in particular, necessary pressure
must be maintained to avoid a"wait out the clock" on the F/A 18 variants. These models are due
to be replaced by 2018 with the F-35, which has a thrust ratio comparable with the Super Hornet.
With our relationships to the Department of Defense through former service on the House Armed
Services Committee, we can work with the Department of the Navy to find resolution on noise
abatement features including training schedules, route and runway usage alterations and sound
attenuation applications.
It is important to note that if Congress authorizes another round of Base Realignment and
Closure (BRAC) in 2017, which is the request of the administration in the March 4th release of
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the President's budget, a certain amount of balancing must be accomplished to avoid mission
realignment that could cost Monroe County jobs. Of course, the Department also requested new
BRAC rounds in 2013 and 2015, neither of which were acted upon by the Congress. Reaction
in Congress in March from key federal legislators is that they are no more receptive to a BRAC
2017, and it probably will not be enacted this year, however, as recently as the second week of
April, the Department is still working the Halls of Congress to persuade them otherwise.
Other examples of current work with federal agencies include:
• Federal Aviation Authority to seek a waiver for the closing of the Opa-Locka Executive
Airport Tower.
• Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) to seek a waiver for the new
Executive Director for the Hialeah Housing Authority;
• Department of Housing & Urban Development(HUD)to seek the rebid of a national loan
servicing contract;
• Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) regarding clarification of their
interpretation of the Fair Housing Amendments Act regarding sober houses;
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regarding the EB-5 Immigrant
Investor Program;
• Food& Drug Administration regarding the time frame for holding an imported product;
• Department of Education changed to their gainful employment rules for private for-profit
colleges and universities;
• Internal Revenue Service and the implementation of the Free File program;
• Department of Interior process for transferring private property into trust;
• The Department of Defense on issues concerning logistics, IED technology and securing
their fuel fleet.
• FAA for the City of Opa-Locka; we represented the city in its fight to save the Opa
Locka Executive Airport from an FAA decision to close its control tower along with 177
other airports around the nation. We were successful in mounting a case and strategy that
made Opa Locka one of only 24 airports to be spared from tower closure.
F. Policy Initiatives
While not specifically requested in the RFP, we have reviewed the County's federal agenda and
included a section below on key policy issues for which we have a great deal of experience and
creative ideas. We regularly advocate for policy positions on these topics and others:
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Municipal Bonds
Position: Protect Tax Exempt Status of Municipal Bonds
Background: Municipal bond interest is—and always has been—exempt from federal tax,just as
federal bonds are exempt from state and local taxes. However, in an effort to close the federal
budget gap, some in Washington are targeting the tax exempt status of municipal bonds, which
would increase the costs of borrowing for local governments, likely preventing many
infrastructure projects from moving forward. According to the Congressional Joint Committee
on Taxation, the exemption would cost the federal government $177.6 billion over five years;
however repealing the status completely would have cost local governments $495 billion in
interest expenses over the past decade.
EMPG Program
Position: Support increased in funding for the Emergency Management Performance Grants
Background: This program provides funding for State and local jurisdictions to engage in
comprehensive national and regional planning processes that seek to enhance emergency
management and catastrophic capabilities through strengthened national and regional
relationships and the allocation of resources toward all-hazards planning, including maintaining
current hazard mitigation plans. Florida is a traditionally a major beneficiary of these funds.
Stafford Act/Debris Removal
Position: Ensure clarity regarding the eligibility for reimbursement of local government
expenditures for removal of debris from private property, including roadways in private or gated
communities.
Background: Generally, debris removal from private property following a disaster is the
responsibility of the property owner. However, large-scale disasters may deposit enormous
quantities of debris on private property over a large area resulting in widespread immediate
threats to the public-at-large. In these cases, the State or local government may need to enter
private property to remove debris to: eliminate immediate threats to life, public health, and
safety; eliminate immediate threats of significant damage to improved property; or ensure
economic recovery of the affected community to the benefit of the community-at-large. We seek
to clarify the regulations and ensure reimbursement to local governments.
Transportation Donor State
Position: Support efforts in the upcoming highway bill reauthorization to increase Florida's
share of federal highway spending.
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1 Background: Florida currently rates poorly in the US based upon the rate of return for federal
highway funding, getting back only 92¢ on every dollar sent to Washington, DC and currently
ranks second of those considered "historical donor states". Florida has "donated" $2,570,000,000
to improve roads in other states since 1956. For every percent increase in Florida's rate of return,
the next 6-year highway bill would provide an additional $199,439,450 to improve Florida's
roads, bridges and highway safety
Property Assessed Clean Energy(PACE)
Position: Support legislation that would require that federal regulators and mortgage lenders treat
PACE assessments like others and underwrite mortgages with PACE assessments allow property
owners to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for their homes and
commercial buildings.
Background: Through PACE financing, interested property owners' opt-in to receive financing
for improvements that is repaid through an assessment on their property taxes for up to 20 years.
PACE financing spreads the cost of energy improvements such as weather sealing, insulation,
energy efficient boilers and cooling systems, new windows, and solar installations over the
expected life of the measures and allows for the repayment obligation to transfer automatically to
the next property owner if the property is sold.
Online Travel and Tourism Taxation
Position: Prevent passage of legislation that would exempt online tourism bookers from paying
appropriate sales taxes to state and local governments.
Background: Currently, online travel companies such as Travelocity and Expedia pay state and
local occupancy taxes on guestrooms based on the wholesale rate they pay for the room, not on
the retail rate the guest pays for the room. Because hotels pay these same taxes based on the
higher retail rate the guest pays, state and local municipalities collect less tax on a room booked
through an OTC than they collect on a room booked through a hotel directly.
National Infrastructure Loan Bank
Position: Support legislative initiatives that would increase local government access to
government-backed low interest loans and private capital for priorities including transportation
and water infrastructure.
Background: Several Members of Congress have proposed the creation of an "infrastructure
bank," which would be run by the government but would pool tax dollars with private
investment. This may be considered in the context of the upcoming transportation
reauthorization bill.
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7. Describe the firm's success, particularly within the past 5 years, in obtaining
funding for county/local government clients. Highlight the key professionals within
the firm that were responsible.
• Over a period of three fiscal years, Amanda Wood assisted Collier County in securing
$2.1 million in federal funding for transportation infrastructure to support improvements
to two key interchanges on I-75 at Everglades Boulevard and Collier Boulevard/SR 84.
These improvements were critically needed to provide access to a route for safe
evacuations from storms and fires as significant growth continues in Collier County.
• For the City of Opa Locka, Clarence Williams helped orchestrate the release of over $1
million in sequestered grant funds for a capital water infrastructure project in Opa Locka
while simultaneously negotiating funds from the State Revolving Fund totaling just under
$1 million for a related project in Opa Locka. We also worked with the Department of
Transportation's FAA to maintain the operation of the Executive Airport in Opa Locka in
the face of widespread contract tower closing. Opa Locka was one of only 24 airports to
remain open of the original 177 slated for closing.
• U.S. Highway 331 and the Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge are the only routes in Walton
County for residents from the southern portion of Walton County to travel to the northern
portion. Amanda Wood assisted them in securing $332,500 in federal transportation
funding to support additional design, right of way and construction to provide
enhancements to this route in order to allow for additional capacity for evacuation
purposes and regional economic development. This represented the first federal
investment in this project and has since resulted in a re-prioritization of this project by
Florida DOT and an expedited construction timetable.
• Amanda Wood worked on behalf of Collier County and Gulf County to support
legislation to compensate impacted counties and restore habitat. The RESTORE Act
became law in the summer of 2012 and holds the parties responsible for the Gulf oil
disaster accountable for restoring the Gulf. By investing fines owed by BP and the other
parties responsible for the Gulf oil spill into the Gulf region, the RESTORE Act will
provide significant financial resources to both Counties. Precise funding levels will not
be determined until fines are levied against BP under the Clean Water Act, which is
expected to occur very soon.
• Omar Franco began working with North Bay Village to see if federal funding would be
available to begin work on a project to upgrade the wastewater system and ultimately,
North Bay Village received notification that they had been awarded $4,655,012 to
completely rehabilitate the existing 12,000 feet of 12-inch force main that crosses the
Biscayne Bay. Additionally, we secured $475,000 in for a bus facility project within the
new Municipal Public Safety Complex in North Bay Village.
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• On behalf of the City of Miami Lakes, Omar Franco secured $570,000 in Transportation-
HUD bill for vehicle procurement of two hybrid electric vehicles to provide this
trolleybus service. The Town was seeking to enhance its existing transportation program,
specifically, the general circulator trolleybus service routes.
• For the Miccosukee Tribe, Omar Franco secured $760,000 for improvements to address
significant safety concerns associated with Snake Road. Additionally, we helped the
Tribe to draw down $1,750,000 in federal funding for Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) safety
improvements.
• For the City of Hialeah, Omar Franco secured $500,000 for street and sidewalk
improvements and $250,000 for the police equipment upgrades.
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8. Describe the firm's plan for accomplishing the work and services to be provided to
Monroe County. The firm should indicate a clear understanding of Monroe
County's federal issues and scope of work, including a detailed project plan for this
project,outlining major tasks and responsibilities, time frames and staff assigned.
Having represented counties throughout Florida as a Federal lobbyist for the past nine years,
Amanda Wood will act as the project manager on behalf of the Becker & Poliakoff team. As
such, Amanda will work with you to develop an agenda of federal priorities and engage with
your Congressional member offices and committee staff as well as executive branch agencies.
Omar Franco and Clarence Williams will also assist with project development and strategy as
well as Congressional and executive branch outreach. Jose Bermudez and Jose Fuentes will be
available locally to attend hearings and meetings, and to consult with County personnel.
The entire Becker & Poliakoff team will be engaged on a daily basis in support of or in
opposition to various statutory or regulatory policy proposals of critical interest to Monroe
County. Based on our collective Capitol Hill experience and representation of many clients at
the federal level, we have established direct relationships with key federal agency officials who
are in positions to guide funding levels, program decisions, advisory board appointments, and
competitive awards.
While we deal directly with federal officials on a daily basis, we also leverage many of our
efforts by working through Congressional offices. We will not only work with Senators Nelson
and Rubio and Representative Garcia, but also with member offices that have jurisdiction and
oversight over the federal agencies that will be key to our efforts on your behalf.
In order to assist the County in setting short and long term federal priorities, we look forward to
meeting with County Commissioners and department heads and touring the County to see first-
hand and fully discuss your projects. This will provide us with an opportunity to build upon the
knowledge we already have as a firm with a long time Monroe County presence. We will explore
all aspects of these priorities and may identify additional projects that you may not have realized
have a federal nexus. Based on this information, we will develop a strategy and federal agenda
that once approved by your staff and elected leadership, will serve as our work plan for the
coming year.
The Chart below provides a simple graphical representation of the proposed schedule/timeline of
Becker & Poliakoff's approach to creating opportunities for the County and the accompanying
proposed activities. The boxes representing "Action Needed", "Results" and "Next Steps" will
be filled in as appropriate following the development of your federal agenda
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Goals & Tasks in first 90 Days and Action Next
Ongoing Representation Timeline Needed _1 Results Steps
GOAL I. Assessment of
Opportunities Within first 90 days
Meet with County to analyze the
current federal appropriations requests,
and conduct strategic long-term
analysis for future requests
Meet with Florida Delegation and staff
to evaluate opportunities and obstacles
Identify and meet with Executive
Branch officials to look for funding
opportunities in Exec. Branch
Goal 2. Develop Federal Agenda and
Strategy Within first 90 days
Ongoing meetings with County
officials
Attend Congressional hearings and
markups on appropriations in the U.S.
House and U.S. Senate
Finalize priorities
Goal 3. Prepare briefing and other
materials in support of County's
Federal Agenda Within first 90 days
Work with County officials and staff to
research, prepare and finalize materials
GOAL 4. Initial Outreach to Monroe
County and entire Florida
Congressional Delegation. Within first 90 days
Meet with the Congressional offices to
introduce the 2014 legislative agenda.
Coordinate meetings between County
representatives and the leadership in the
U.S. House and U.S. Senate
Appropriations Committee members.
Goal S. Prepare for Upcoming Within first 90 days
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Funding Opportunities
Present the revised agenda to the
Congressional Delegation and as
appropriate, advance components of the
agenda with members of the U.S.
House and the U.S. Senate with
legislative jurisdiction over targeted
issues. Within first 90 days
Ongoing Representation
Grant Review and Preparation ongoing
Enhance Monroe County's
Relationships in DC through regular
communication, meetings, site visits
with key influencers ongoing
Work to identify public policy issues of
importance to County and develop
specific position papers on each issue
area, working with the government
relations team and leadership at the
County. These issue papers will be
updated on a regular, and as warranted,
basis. ongoing
Coordinate site visits by Congressional
members and staff to high priority
venues, specifically the local
Congressional Delegation ongoing
Identify opportunities for the County
leadership to testify before Congress ongoing
Identify specific actions to be
appropriately advanced that will
enhance the County's relationships with
the Congressional Delegation members
and their staff. ongoing
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Assist with the management of
visits/fly-ins of County representatives
to Washington, D.C. for the purpose of
meeting with members of Congress and
their appropriations staff ongoing
Coordinate and accompany site visits
by Appropriations members and staff to
the County ongoing
Monitor and impact legislation and
regulations affecting County ongoing
Establish and maintain liaison services,
establish regular interaction, and assist
the County in establishing long-term
relationships with the Executive Branch
agencies ongoing
Set up and coordinate meetings on
behalf of the County with the
1 Administration ongoing
Establish and maintain liaison services,
establish regular interaction, and assist
the County in establishing long-term
relationships with National
Associations ongoing
Liaison to the National Association of
Counties and other local government
associations and work with County
I officials when they attend such
functions. ongoing
Regular Reporting ongoing
Communicate regularly with County to
update them on progress of the federal
legislative agenda ongoing i
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9. Identify the process and tools that will be used to monitor critical issues. Identify
progress reports that will be made during process and key decisions points. Clearly
distinguish the firm's duties and responsibilities and those of the County's. (Absence
of this distinction shall mean the firm is assuming responsibility for all tasks)
With a developed and approved federal scope and strategy, we will take federal advocacy actions
on your behalf, using tools including:
• Our collective Hill and Executive Branch experience and relationships
• Coalition advocacy in collaboration with associations such as the National Association of
Counties and Florida Association of Counties
• Daily review of the Federal Register and action on Capitol Hill and by the Administration
• Regular meetings with relevant Congressional Delegation and Committee members and
staff, as well as federal agency staff
• Federally-focused reports and publications to which we subscribe
We will provide regular status reports and updates on your priorities and to highlight new,
1opportunities,which may include:
• Presentations to your Commission
• Regularly scheduled conference calls and/or written status reports
• Our weekly legislative update
• Memos specific to pending federal items, which may request your feedback
From the Commission and your staff, we will seek the following information and guidance:
• Data related to County priorities, including basic budgets, engineering specification and
project abstracts
• Examples of local impacts of proposed federal policies, which we will identify and
request
• Collaboration in the drafting of federal grant applications
• Availability to participate in phone calls and face to face meetings with federal program
staff and elected officials as needed
• Responsiveness to requests for letters to be sent to federal officials. drafts of which will
be provided by our team
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Based on this information and guidance, we will perform the following tasks:
• Prepare effective briefing materials, designed to thoroughly make your case while
remaining concise
• Arrange meetings for you with your Congressional Delegation,members of Congress and
their staff from relevant appropriations and authorizing committees, and key federal
agency officials to advocate for the County's goals and objectives and prepare talking
points and briefing materials for same
• Identify specific federal grants that have your priorities as an allowable use and prepare a
full report of funding options and a recommended action plan
• Guide you in positioning the application for success by putting you face-to-face with
program officers and decision makers within funding agencies in advance of the of
1 funding solicitations,allowing us to gain insight into program priorities
• Review grant applications and provide strategic advice and recommend changes based on
the weaknesses and strengths of the application and our internal knowledge of the
agency's priorities
• Actively engage political support for pending funding applications
• Identify opportunities to provide testimony before Congressional committees
• Prepare responses to federal register notices related to new and amended proposed
regulations
• Engage the delegation in support for or in opposition to proposed legislation that will
impact the County.
10. Show the organizational chart as it relate to service identifying the key personnel
who will be responsible for the provision of this service. (It should be understood
that it is the intent of Monroe County to insist that those indicated as the consultant
team in this RFP response actually execute the program.)
Monroe County
Legislative & Lobbying Services
Organizational Chart
Becker & Poliakoff
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Federal
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Assistant
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Williams
Co-Local Co-Local
Federal Lobbyist Federal Lobbyist Liaison Liaison
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11. Describe the method the firm uses to communicate the client on its project and issues,
and provide an example of such communication with a comparable local government client
on an issue before Congress, Executive Branch, and/or federal agency.
Our team will provide frequent status reports and updates on both your identified federal agenda
priorities as outlined in the Federal Legislative Agenda as well as and new opportunities that
I arise. We are eager to participate in regularly scheduled conference calls, provide written status
reports and timely information on relevant grants, legislation, regulations that may impact
Monroe County, as well as congressional committee meetings, hearings and conferences. You
can also expect to receive our weekly legislative update, which is prepared and distributed to our
clients on every Monday that Congress is in session which provides general information about
Congressional schedules and issues being addressed by Congressional leadership.
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Like the schedule/timeline started for Monroe County preliminarily in TAB C, the following is
an example of a client status report provided to a municipal client:
ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS & TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
GOAL 1. Effectively develop
funding initiatives, inclusive of
annual appropriations requests
and agency specific grant
1 opportunities
et
Revise current
federal agenda
Teleconference for 2014 to
with City include
Meet with City to analyze the administrators: Brownfields and
current federal appropriations 1/l i, 2/6, 5/10 Economic
requests, and conduct strategic Attended City Grant agenda and Development
long-term analysis for future Council meeting legislative agenda Assistance
requests _ 2/6 established Grants
Coordinated Coordinating
Congressional conference calls
letters of support with FEMA to
Assist in development, drafting for: AFG Grant seek guidance for
and submission of appropriation Application, AFG and SAFER re-submission for
requests and all the supporting SAFER Grant grant were not
documentation Application _awarded in 2013 grantsAFGand SAFER
City's issues have Continue meeting
g
Met with Rep. been highly with
Meet with the Congressional Wasserman prioritized by Congressional
offices to introduce the 2013 Schultz's office Congressional offices on an as
legislative agenda. 1/19, 9/24 offices needed basis
Attend Congressional hearings and
markups on appropriations in the
U.S. House and U.S. Senate. No action No results No further action
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
Schedule City
I Coordinate meetings between City visit for Rep.
representatives and the leadership Debbie
in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate Wasserman
Appropriations Committee Schultz or district
members. No action No results staff
Coordinate call
with AFG
program analyst:
11-15-13. Solicit
Identify and meet with Executive advice from
Branch officials to discuss AFG and FEMA officials
alternative funding opportunities SAFER 2013 submissions to better compete
through the Executive Branch submissions were not awarded in 2014
Develop and execute a strategy to Concentrate on
grant
f ensure that City projects are opportunities,
included in the preliminary bills in No especially new
both the U.S. House and U.S. appropriations potential projects
Senate. bills this year No results list in Sheet 2
ACTIONS ACTIONS
TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
GOAL 2: Establish and
maintain liaison services,
establish regular interaction,
and assist the City with
Congress and the Florida
Congressional Delegation. I ,
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
Continue to push
for passage of
these bills and
the continuation
Through the on the Muni
Florida League of Bond tax
Work to identify public policy Cities: exemption.
issues of importance to City and Marketplace Passage of these
develop specific position papers Fairness Act, Tax The bills would have
on each issue area, working with Exemption of Congressional a positive effect
the government relations team and Municipal Bonds, delegation has co- on the City with
leadership at the City. These issue Delay sponsored most of the exception of
papers will be updated on a Implementation these bills and co- the Muni Bond
regular,and as warranted, basis. of FEMA maps signed letters issue
Present the revised agenda to the
Congressional Delegation and as Worked on Follow up with
appropriate, advance components FEMA Appeal State of Florida FEMA for a
of the agenda with members of the and sent the First expedited and
U.S. House and the U.S. Senate Documentation Appeal Letter to positive
with legislative jurisdiction over and Follow-up FEMA on resolution of City
targeted issues. letter on 08-08-13 10/17/2013 Appeal
Coordinate an
Coordinate site visits by official City visit
Congressional members and staff, by Rep.
specifically the local Wasserman
Congressional Delegation No action No results Schultz
Identify opportunities for the City Continue to seek
leadership to testify before relevant
Congress No action , No results opportunities
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
Participated in FL
League of Cities •
Fly-in and met Continue to
with participate in DC
Identify specific actions to be DC Fly-in's and Congressional Fly-ins and have
appropriately advanced that will regular meetings staff on a regular City Council
enhance the City's relationships with basis to update members visit
with the Congressional Delegation Congressional them on City with Members
members and their staff. staff priorities and staff
n
Weekly memo's
sent detailing City is currently
broad exploring new Continue to seek
Congressional funding new
1 actions. Grant opportunities opportunities and
Communicate regularly with City opportunities sent based on follow-up with
to update them on progress of the to City when communications agencies on the
federal legislative agenda available. with the City 2014 submissions
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Scheduled and Met with the all
coordinated the Members of
meeting with the South Florida Continue to
Assist with the management of Council Member Congressional participate in DC
visits/fly-ins of City with the Florida delegation, Fly-ins and have
representatives to Washington, League of Cities including City Council
l D.C. for the purpose of meeting Fly-in in Senators,to members visit
f with members of Congress and February and discuss legislative with Members
their appropriations staff September 2013 priorities and staff
Coordinate a
Coordinate and accompany site district staff visit
visits by Appropriations members for a legislative
and staff to the City No action No results update
IACTIONS RESULTS ACTIONS
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
TAKEN NEEDED
... GOAL 3: Establish and
maintain liaison services,
establish regular interaction,
and assist the City in
establishing long-term
relationships with the Executive
Branch agencies
Meet with
agencies to
understand why
the grants were
not funded and
receive technical
guidance for the
2014
The City's grant submissions.
applications were Schedule
already meetings and
submitted,so we visits with
worked through appropriate
Set up and coordinate meetings on Congress to show agencies before
behalf of the City with the support for the The grants were submitting 2014
Administration City projects not awarded applications
Advance relationships in these
key departments/agencies
including:
Department of Commerce, Coordinate site
Economic Development visit for technical
Administration No action No results grant assistance
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
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Regular Contact Solicit letter from Continue to work
with FEMA the State of with
regarding Appeal Florida to FEMA. Congressional
of Disallowed State letter in offices to receive
Department of Homeland Security, Labor and support of City an expedited and
Federal Emergency Management Equipment appeal was sent positive response
Administration(FEMA) Reimbursable 10-17-13 to City appeal
Set up meetings
Active contact and call with
with FEMA FEMA program
regarding City officers to
Department of Homeland Security, appeal and the improve the
Federal Emergency Management AFG and SAFER Grants were not City's 2014
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Select target
grants for
equipment and
School Security.
Conduct calls
with DoJ
program officer
in advance of
Department of Justice No action No results grant solicitation
Examine
1 Department of Justice, Community feasibility of a
Oriented Policing Services 2014 grant
(COPS) No action No results submission
Advocate for
keeping CDBG
Department of Housing and Urban grant funding at
IDevelopment(HUD) No action No results current levels
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS &TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
Identified grant
for Park and
Recreation
Development.
Examine
feasibility and
assist in grant
submission.
Communicate
with DOI to
Department of Interior (DOI) No action No results solicit guidance.
Identified grants
for Brownfield
Redevelopment,
Stormwater GIS
Mapping, and
Abandoned Gas
Stations.
Examine
feasibility and
assist in grant
submission.
Communicate
Environmental Protection Agency with EPA to
(EPA) No action No results solicit guidance.
ACTIONS ACTIONS
TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
Goal 4: Establish and maintain
liaison services, establish regular
interaction, and assist the City in
establishing long-term
relationships with National
Associations
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ACTIONS ACTIONS
GOALS & TASKS TAKEN RESULTS NEEDED
I
Delay of the
Implementation of
Scheduled and the FEMA flood Continue to
attended maps has been co- participate in DC
Liaison to the National League of meetings with the sponsored by Fly-ins and have
Cities and the U.S. Conference of Florida League of majority of City Council
Mayors and work with City Cities Fly-in: Florida members visit
I Council members when they 2/26 & 2/27, 9/10 Congressional
& 9/l 1 delegation with Members
attend such functions. and staff
12. Describe how the firm plans to establish, maintain, and enhance working
relationships between County officials and staff and key members of Congress,
committee staff, Executive Branch and federal agencies.
Our team has strong relationships with members of Congress; key congressional committee
chairmen and staff; Administration officials within the Executive Office of the President; and
key appointed officials and staff within the federal agencies. We also will utilize our existing
relationships with various stakeholder groups such as the National Association of Counties, the
National League of Cities, the U.S. Conference of Mayors and issue specific associations and
coalitions. Through these contacts, we remain actively involved in the development of legislation
and regulations, as well as the preparation and adoption of the federal budget, annual
appropriations bills and competitive grant applications. By leveraging our contacts, we will
enhance the County's relationships. In addition, by maintaining continuous contact with the
County's congressional delegation, we will keep them abreast of the priorities on your Federal
Legislative Strategy and your positions on new issues that appear throughout the legislative year.
Because we currently represent many local government clients at the federal level, we have
established direct relationships with key federal agency officials who are in positions to guide
funding levels, program decisions, advisory board appointments, and awards. Many of these
efforts have ultimately resulted in significant savings, operational adjustments, or increased
protections for both clients and the consumers involved.
While we deal with many federal agencies in a daily basis, w.e leverage most of our work by
working through Congressional offices. Because of our relationships, we either work with the
constituent's Congressman and/or Senator but in many cases we also work with member offices
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that have jurisdiction and oversight over the federal agencies. In this manner, we are better
situated to successfully implement the changes that our clients are seeking. Also, by approaching
the agencies in this manner, they would have the assurance that Congressional intent would be
followed in the changing or promulgation of any new rules
13. Describe how the firm will enhance the County's financial position with respect to
obtaining congressional appropriations, federal grants, incentives, etc. and avoiding
federal unfunded mandates that map impact the County. Provide specific examples
of successful appropriations grants, etc obtained for comparable local government
clients.
The moratorium on earmarks has made the already difficult quest for federal funds even more
challenging. With that reality in place, however, the team has used their experience and knows
how to find innovative ways to help clients obtain federal funds and resources. In one such
instance for the City of Opa Locka, team members helped orchestrate the release of over $1
million in sequestered grant funds for a capital project in Opa Locka while simultaneously
negotiating funds from the State Revolving Fund totaling just under $1 million for a related
project in Opa Locka.
In another example, our team worked with program officials within the Department of Education
and Congressional committee staff to provide the Department with authority to modify eligibility
requirements for an existing program that had remaining funds from the previous budget year. In
advocating for and obtaining the modification the Department wanted and our client needed, our
team was then able to assist clients, Florida Memorial University, Bethune-Cookman University
and Edward Waters College in receiving $12 million in capital funding from the program's
remaining money.
14. Provide an example of legislation (bill, amendment, report language, etc) the firm
prepared/drafted on behalf of a comparable local government client for
introduction in Congress.
In order to permanently restore federal flood insurance and disaster assistance eligibility,
Amanda Wood worked with Gulf County, Florida to achieve the removal of Cape San Blas and
Indian Peninsula from the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS). Only Congress has the
authority to modify boundaries of the CBRS and they must do this through legislation, which
was researched and prepared by Amanda Wood and now been introduced by Representative
Southerland:
H.R. 945 — 113th Congress (2013-2014)
ky
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To remove from the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System the areas included in
Indian Peninsula Unit FL-92 and Cape San Blas Unit P-30 in Florida.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 4, 2013
Mr. Southerland introduced the following bill; which was referred to
the Committee on Natural Resources
A BILL
To remove from the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System the
areas included in Indian Peninsula Unit FL-92 and Cape San Blas Unit P-
30 in Florida.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. REMOVAL FROM JOHN H. CHAFEE COASTAL BARRIER RESOURCES
SYSTEM
OF AREAS COMPRISING INDIAN PENINSULA UNIT FL-92 AND CAPE
SAN BLAS UNIT P-30, FLORIDA.
The areas comprising John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources
System Indian Peninsula Unit FL-92 and Cape San Blas Unit P-30 in
Florida immediately before the enactment of this Act are not part of
such system, and maps relating to such units are hereby removed from
the maps referred to in section 4(a)of the Coastal Barrier Resources
Act(16 U.S.C. 3503(a)).
3
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POLIA►I<OFF v. v°.becker-poliakoff.com
.c.ci.3t and Sus+ness Strategists bp@becker-poliakoff.com
15. Prepare an example of written documentation prepared for a presentation before a
legislative committee and/or federal agency.
4'!.t N.\\
Gulf County,Florida
Appeal of FEMA Hurricane Gustav Determination
Request
Gulf County requests FEMA approval of the State of Florida's 2"d appeal of FEMA's de-obligation of
eligible beach reconstruction costs totaling $15,113,160 for Project Worksheet 14 from the Hurricane
Gustav event.
Background
In August 2009 Hurricane Gustav made landfall, causing extensive damage to approximately 4 miles of
shoreline within the County-maintained portion of St. Joseph Peninsula Beach in Gulf County. This
event caused erosion that removed an estimated 23 cubic yards of sand per linear feet, damage to sand
fencing, and impacted approximately 300,000 sea oat plants. While FEMA's initial determination was
that this project is not inconsistent with the CBRA program (see correspondence), because this area is
located within the Coastal Barrier Resources Systems (CBRS), FEMA consulted with the US Fish and
Wildlife Service and received an initial recommendation that did not support federal funding of the
project because they believed that this expenditure would be inconsistent with the Coastal Barrier
Resources Act(CBRA).
Status
The Florida Division of Emergency Management has submitted a second appeal of FEMA's
determination on the basis that this project is consistent with the intent of CBRA and is awaiting
FEMA's response. As part of the appeal process, Gulf County Commissioners and staff have met with
both FEMA and FWS (headquarters and Panama City field office) and have provided both with
additional engineering reports to support our case.
Despite indications that FWS will once again find this project inconsistent with CBRA, FEMA
has the authority to set aside the negative consultation by FWS and fund the entire project should
FEMA determine that the assistance sought by the grantee is consistent with the purposes of
CBRA.
Basis for Second Appeal
Sensitive habitat has not been adversely impacted by the project.
The erosion of the beaches caused by Gustav undoubtedly caused native life to find a more suitable
place to live. This natural occurrence, therefore, would have the same effect as the restoration of the
beach through reconstruction of sand dunes, which might cause the same native life to seek more
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suitable places to live. Project monitoring reports also demonstrate that the completed renourishment
has slowed erosion rates, thereby maintaining habitat.
Also note that the scope of this work is completely consistent with the State and County-funded
renourishment that was in process at the time of this storm event, the permitting for which was granted
by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (see "St. Joseph Peninsula Erosion Control Project, SAJ-2006-
4471 (IP-DEB), Gulf County, Florida, dated May 17, 2007,")
The Project has not led to increased development.
It has been nearly three years since the damages to Gulf County's beaches from the Gustav event have
been reconstructed, yet development rates have still not yet returned to even the muted pre-Gustav
levels. The current development rate is approximately 1%, which does not approach the pre-Gustav rate
of between 3% and 5% of eligible parcels. Additionally, due to the existence of restrictive land-use
regulations in the subject area, no amount of federal expenditure could legitimately be expected to
increase development within the CBRA zone, as the pre-existing land-use regulations (which allow
only 2 to 3 structures per acre in the area, resulting in approximately 95% of existing parcels within the
Peninsula being already built out)have effectively choked off such development ahead of time.
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T:1B D: REFERENCES
Becker & Poliakoff is pleased to provide references for similarly successful projects from five
current comparable clients.
Palm Beach County
Todd Bonlarron
Public Affairs Director
Tbonlarr@co.palm-beach.fl.us
561-355-3451
City of Opa-Locka
Kelvin Baker
City Manager
city_manager@opalockafl.gov
305-953-2868
Town of Davie
Richard Lemack
Town Administrator
richard lemackdavie-fl.gov
954-797-1190
City of Delray Beach
Terrill Pyburn
Assistant City Attorney
pvburn(a,mydelravbeach.com
561-243-7090
City of Hialeah
Fredrick Marinelli
Grants Administrator
fmarinelli(a7hialeahfl.gov
305-883-5839
BECKER
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1}OI��IkO` (;() 31
TAB E: Rate
Becker & Poliakoff is pleased to propose an annual lump sum fee payable monthly over the
course of the year of$72,000. This proposed fee is a maximum not to exceed amount and does
not include or contemplate travel or related expenses chargeable to the County.
BEC l<ER °
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TAB F: Required Forms
The required forms are attached.
1. Response Form
2. Lobbying and Conflict of Interest Clause
3. Drug Free Workplace Certification
4. Non-Collusion Statement Form
5. Insurance and Indemnification Statement
V
TAB F: Required Form
RESPONSE FORM
RESPOND TO: MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
c/o Lisa Tennyson, Director of Legislative Affairs
GATO BUILDING, ROOM 2.213
1100 SIMONTON STREET
KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040
1 acknowledge receipt of Addenda No.(s) 1
x 1 have included:
o The Submission Response Form x
o Lobbying and Conflict of Interest Clause x
o Non -Collusion Afflda4it x
o Drug Free Workplace Form x
o Respondent's Insurance and Indemnification Statement x
o Insurance Agent's Statement x
In addition, I have included a current copy of the following professional and occupational
licenses:
t"I
(Check mark Items above, as a reminder that they are includ0d.)
Mailing Address: Alhambra Plaza, loth FlTelephone:305.262.4433
Cor Gables, FL 33134 Fax: 305.442.2232
Date: Ap r i 1 2 5, 2 014
Signed: Witness: &Z6 � ra l D Q cD
(Seal)
C:Avc� C. �bSe.YI
(N�me)
(Title)
151Page
TAB F: Required Form
LOBBYING AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST CLAUSE
a
SWORN STATEMENT UNDER ORDINANCE NO.010.1990
MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
ETHICS CLAUSE
Becker & Poliakoff
(Company)
warrants that he/it has not employed, retained or otherwise had act on his/its behalf any former
County officer or employee In violation of Section 2 of Ordinance No. 010-1990 or any County officer or
employee in violation of Section 3 of Ordinance No. 010-1990. For breach or violation of this provision
the County may, in Its discretion, terminate this Agreement without liability and may also, in its discretion,
deduct from the Agreement or purchase price, or otherwise recover, a full amount of any fee,
commission, percentage, gift, or consideration paid to the former County cer or employee".
d X
1l,
STATE OF:
(Signature)
iq
COUNTY OF:
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on W o 1 a- Ci , .l u,q
(date) by (name of affiant). He/She is personally
known to me or has produced as
identification. (type of identification)
NOTARY PUBLIC
E
My commission expires:
COLLEEN LAPLANT
.R_ Commission # EE 880483 --
.
f Expires June 16, 2017
$l,, °, �. S.M d Th. Ty Feh heuerca A00.3B IN 161 P :i a e
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E
TAB F: Required Form
DRUG -FREE WORKPLACE FORM
The undersigned vendor in acco5a?ce VthtF orida Statute 2$7.087 hereby certifies that
Bec er & o is o
(Name of Business)
1. Publish a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the workplace and
specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for vlolations of such prohibition.
2, Inform employees about the dangers of drug abuse in the workplace, the business's policy of
maintaining a drug -free workplace, any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee
assistance programs, and the penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse
violations.
3, Give each employee engaged in providing the commodities or contractual services that are
under bid a copy of the statement specified in subsection (1).
4. In the statement specified in subsection (1), notify the employees that, as a condition of
working on the commodities or contractual services that are under bid, the employee will abide
by the terms of the statement and will notify the employer of any conviction of, or plea of guilty
or nolo contendere to, any violation of Chapter 893 (Florida Statutes) or of any controlled
substance law of the United States or any state, for a violation occurring in the workplace no
later than five (5) days after such conviction.
5. Impose a sanction on, or require the satisfactory participation in a drug abuse assistance or
rehabilitation program if such Is available in the employee's community, or any employee who is
so convicted.
6. Make a good f ' effort to ontinue to maintain a drug -free workplace through
implementation of t ' section.
As the perso'authorized to si the statement, I certify that this firm complies fully with the
rbments.
above requi
412-1.14
Date
NOTARY PUBLIC
r--
My Commission Expires:
�;;;".�,,,, COLLEEN IAPIANi
'� ;: Commission # E 2080483
�r ,f.'Expires June 16,
r �;JP xi; r1S�s5 Banned iMu RoY FaN mmrros �es7019
181Page
s
TAB F: Required Form
NON -COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT
I, Gary C. Rosen of the city of Boca Raton, FL
according to law on my oath, and under penalty of perjury, depose and say that:
1. I am
Gary C. Rosen
of the firm of Becker & Pol iakof f
the bidder making the Proposal for the project described in the Request for
Qualifications for.
Legislative and Lobbying Services for County's Federal Program
and that I executed the said proposal with full authority to do so:
2. the prices in this bid have been arrived at independently without collusion,
consultation, communication or agreement for the purpose of restricting competition,
as to any matter relating to such prices with any other bidder or with any competitor;
3. unless otherwise required by law, the prices which have been quoted in this bid have
not been knowingly disclosed by the bidder and will not knowingly be disclosed by
the bidder prior to bid opening, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder or to any
competitor; and
4. no attempt has be ode r will be made b the bidder to induce any other person,
partnership rporatlo to submit, or not to submit, a bid for the purpose of
restrictin oetition;
mp
5. the s ements con ed in this affidavit are true and correct, and made with full
Hit
4 edge thatZaird-bwtontrac
e County relies upon the truth of the statements contained in
affidavit in Ja rote .
gnatur espondent)
STATE OF: or � ct a---
COUNTY OF: t cVJC k
<])1q))±_
( Date)
PERSONALLY APPEARED BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, Gar 4 C . 12a5e r
who, after first being sworn by me, (name of individual signing) affixed his/her signature in the
space provided above on this act _ day of 20_1±.
NOTARY PUBL
COLLEEN LAPLANT
w = Commission # E 880483
Expires June 16, 2017 My Commission Expires:
84. �` 8.0WRM TroyF&InW80038S7019
171 Page
. V
TAB F: Required Form
RESPONDENT'S INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION STATEMENT
Insurance Regulromerrt Reouired Limits
s Worker's Compensation Statutory Limits
Employer's Liability $1001000/$5000,000/$1,0001000
Fr
General Liability $300,000 per Person, $500,000 per
Occurrence, $200,000 Property Damage
or
$500,000 Combined Single Limit
Vehicle Liability $200,000 per Person, $300,000 Per
occurrence, $200,000 Property Damage
or $300,000 Combined Single Limit
Professional Uability $500,000 per occurrence
$1,000,000 aggregate
IDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS FOR CONSULTANTS AND
SUBCONSULTANTS
The CONSULTANT covenants and agrees to Indemnify and hold harmless COUNTY/Monroe
County and Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, its officers and employees from
liabilities, damages, losses and costs, including but not limited to, reasonable attorneys' fees,
to the extent caused by the negligence, recklessness, or Intentional wrongful conduct of the
CONSULTANT, subcontractors) and other persons employed or utilized by the
CONSULTANT in the performance of the contracL
In the event that the completion of the project (to include the work of others) is delayed or
suspended as a result of the CONSULTANTS failure to purchase or maintain the required
Insurance, the CONSULTANT shell Indemnify the County from any and all increased
expenses resulting from such delay. Should any claims be asserted against the COUNTY by
virtue of any deficiency or ambiguity In the plans and speciflcatlons provided by the
CONSULTANT, the CONSULTANT agrees and warrants that CONSULTANT shah hold the
County harmless and shall Indemnify it from all losses occurring thereby and shall further
defend any claim or action on the County's behalf.
The -first ten dollars ($10.00) of remuneration paid to the CONSULTANT Is consideration for
the Indemnification provided for above.
The extent of liability is in no way limited to, reduced, or lessened by the insurance
requirements contained elsewhere within this agreement.
191PaSr
This indemnification shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of the Agreement.
I understand the insurance that will be mandatory If arded the ntract and will comply in
full with all the requirements.
Gary C. Rosen
Respondent S
CE AGENT*
I have reviewed the above requirements with the bidder named below. The following
deductibles apply to the corresponding policy.
POLICY DEDUCTIBLES
Liability policies are -Occurrence
UyVxWMV()-V1V,
Insurance Agency P4 00 S
IF(W- 1000 - CAI
Claims Made
44 �- A!!!�e
Signature
Print Name:
201Page