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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Alex Voigt, Deputy Chief of Staff
DATE: November 25, 2024
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.
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this item is to request the City Council's approval to renew the agreement for the governmental affairs services of Vision M.A.I., Bukola Bello for the 2025 year.
BACKGROUND:
Vision M.A.I., Bukola Bello, has been representing the City of Aurora mid-2020. Thanks to the efforts of our combined lobby team (Marquardt & Humes and Vision M.A.I.), the City of Aurora has increased our presence in Springfield and our communication with our State officials. The volume of work regarding State Legislative Affairs continues to increase, and maintaining a strong presence remains a priority. 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.
Below are some highlights of accomplishments and benefits over the past year.
* Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Limestone Material (ongoing)
* Coordinated City Council members visits with State Legislators while in Springfield
* Scheduled and attended meetings with State Agencies
* Represented the city during hearings as needed
* Connected various staff members to Legislators
* Coordinated meetings with stakeholders on bills of concern or priority to Aurora
DISCUSSION:
The agreement before the committee today proposes a 3% percent increase to $6,556.21 per month. Aside from the proposed rate increase, the agreement does not have any other changes. The proposed agreement is attached as Exhibit A.
Funds have been budgeted in account #101-1002-413-32.20.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
This Resolution, if approved will have a positive impact on the City of Aurora.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff respectfully reques...
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