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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Alex Voigt, Deputy Chief of Staff
DATE: December 5, 2023
SUBJECT:
A resolution approving an extension of an agreement with Vision M.A.I. (Bukola Bello) for Lobbying Services on behalf of the City of Aurora.
BACKGROUND:
Vision M.A.I., Bukola Bello, has been representing the City of Aurora mid-2020. Initially our goal with growing our lobby team was to expand our outreach efforts in Springfield and grow our relationships with the various Caucus'. The circumstances of 2020 upended our initial plan, and Bukola began to work with us on several legislative issues and was a key player in navigating the changing landscape in Springfield during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2023 session was fruitful for the City of Aurora. Thanks to the efforts of our State Lobby Team (Vision M.A.I. and Roger C. Marquardt & Co.), we passed four (4) pieces of staff-initiated legislation. Additionally, Bukola and her team continue to provide timely and vital support to the city through lobbying efforts, facilitating meetings with key stakeholders and attending meetings and hearings on our behalf.
A brief summary of accomplishments are listed below:
* Drones as First Responders Act
* Police Training -- Out-of-State Waivers
* Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Limestone Material
* Department of Public Health - Plumber Agreements
* Scheduled and attended meetings with State Agencies
* Represented the city during hearings as needed
* Connected various staff members to Legislators
* Represented the city during negotiations related to bills listed above
DISCUSSION:
Staff is requesting a 3.5% increase for the 2024 calendar year, at a rate of $6,365.25 per month. Funds are budgeted out of account #101-1002-413-32.20.
Aside from the rate increase, there are no other significant changes to the 2024 agreement. The 2024 agreement is attached as Exhibit A.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
This extension, if approved will have a positive impact on ...
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