City Council
MEETING DATE: 8/24/2016
TITLE:
Title
Educational Campaign Regarding the Proposed City Charter - Measure HH
End
FROM:
Charlie McClendon, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
This item is presented for information, discussion and direction only.
Body
BACKGROUND:
Mayor Pro Tem Pettis asked staff to prepare a discussion item for the agenda so Council can consider using a professional firm to assist with an educational campaign regarding Measure HH - the proposed City Charter.
DISCUSSION:
The City has used a professional firm to provide an educational campaign on some previous ballot questions. The City cannot use public money to advocate for or against a City ballot measure, however educational materials can be provided regarding a Measure so that voters can make an informed decision.
In anticipation of this discussion staff sent requests for information to two firms to get an idea of what a campaign might include and a cost estimate. At the time this report was prepared staff has received information from one firm and it appears a contract would cost from $47,000 to $58,000 depending on the exact services included. The last time the City used professional services for a voter education campaign the cost was $27,000 for professional services, $35,000 for four direct mail pieces and $2,500 for out of pocket expenses.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are no funds budgeted for an educational campaign. A budget amendment transferring funds from reserves will be required if a contract is awarded.
ATTACHMENTS:
None