![Page 1: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
Meeting Agenda Thursday, December 7, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Meeting Host and Location:
Kern Council of Governments 1401 19th Street, Suite 300 Bakersfield, CA 93301
Teleconference Number: 1-‐515-‐739-‐1015
Participant Code: 432-‐600-‐639 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Enclosure
1. November 2, 2017 Directors’ Meeting T. Boren þ
DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS:
2. RTP/Sustainable Communities Strategies/Air Quality R. Niblock Update and Discussion
3. Valley Legislative Affairs Committee S. Dabbs þ Discuss Valley Voice Sacramento, March 7, 2018, including Selection of Lobbyist
4. California Transportation Funding – SB 1 Implementation Strategy Updates:
§ Trade Corridor Enhancements (SJCOG & MCAG) § Solutions for Congested Corridors (Fresno COG) § ITIP (TCAG & StanCOG)
5. State Route 99 Project Prioritization T. Smalley/ Discuss Preliminary Framework for Criteria and Evaluation A. Chesley
![Page 2: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Enclosure 6. Additional Discussion Items: a. Agenda for December 15 Regional Policy Council Meeting To be provided at meeting b. Directors’ Workshop, January 2018 c. Spring 2018 Policy Conference
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS þ The following items are for informational purposes and require no action or vote. Written summaries of Informational Items are included in the agenda packet. 7. Caltrans Directors’ Report S. Ehlert/D. Agar 8. San Joaquin JPA for Passenger Rail D. Leavitt 9. California High Speed Rail D. Gomez 10. Goods Movement Planning M. Sigala 11. Rural Transit Alternatives Study/UC Davis M. Sigala 12. California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley I. Herrera OTHER ITEMS 13. Director Items 14. Public Presentations for Items Not on Agenda. This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to address the Committee on items within its jurisdiction but NOT on this agenda. Unscheduled comments may be limited to three minutes. The public may
comment on listed agenda items as they are considered. ADJOURN MEETING. Directors Only Closed Session will be held.
Next Directors’ Meeting: Thursday, January 4, 2018 (Fresno). Date is Tentative.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations The meeting room and restrooms are ADA accessible. Representatives or individuals with disabilities should contact the SJV Regional Planning Agencies at (559) 266-‐6222, at least three days in advance, to request auxiliary aids and/or translation services necessary to participate in the meeting.
![Page 3: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
Meeting Minutes Thursday, November 2, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Meeting Location: Merced County Association of Governments
369 W. 18th Street Merced, CA 95340
Directors MPOs Robert Phipps for Tony Boren Fresno Council of Governments Patrick Pittenger Merced County Association of Governments Ted Smalley Tulare County Association of Governments Ahron Hakimi Kern Council of Governments Terri King Kings County Association of Governments Patricia Taylor Madera County Transportation Commission Andrew Chesley San Joaquin Council of Governments Rosa Park Stanislaus Council of Governments
Please see Appendix A for a list of other attendees APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. October 5, 2017 Directors’ Meeting T. Boren
There was a motion to approve the October 5, 2017 Directors Committee Minutes.
First Motion: Mr. Ahron Hakimi Second Motion: Ms. Rosa Park No Nays Motion Carried
![Page 4: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
2
DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS:
2. RTP/Sustainable Communities Strategies/Air Quality R. Niblock a. Update and Discussion Mr. Ryan Niblock announced an upcoming call with ARB and the Air District to discuss budget setting and the adoption schedule for the next PM10 maintenance plan. He reviewed PM2.5 deadlines. In regard to SB 375, Mr. Niblock reported that ARB will be moving forward with their target setting recommendation from June at their upcoming November 16, 2017 meeting. Further discussion on target setting ensued. b. Discuss and Consider Approving Sierra Research Contract Extension, and Allocation of AQ Contingency Budget A new one-‐year contract with Sierra Research to provide Valleywide air quality planning support was initiated on January 1, 2017. The contract includes a $25,000 contingency; however, access to funds can only be granted through a formal request to Directors.
There was a motion to approve extending the contract with Sierra Research for another year (thru December 31, 2018).
First Motion: Mr. Ted Smalley Second Motion: Mr. Ahron Hakimi No Nays Motion Carried
There was a motion to approve the allocation of air quality contingency budget for this contract year. First Motion: Mr. Ahron Hakimi Second Motion: Ms. Terri King No Nays Motion Carried
3. Valley Legislative Affairs Committee S. Dabbs a. Discuss Valley Voice Sacramento, March 7, 2018 (tentative), and Support for any Pending Legislation Ms. Stacie Dabbs requested input from Directors regarding the Valley Voice Sacramento date, lobbyist contract, brochure of issues, and development schedule. She noted that a poll was circulated and Wednesday, March 7, 2018 was indicated as the preferred date for the trip. Additionally, Ms. Dabbs followed up on previous discussions pertaining to a lobbyist contract with Mr. Gus Khouri. She reviewed Item 3A in the agenda packet, which led to a discussion on updating and refining issues previously presented. Directors’ provided input on issues to be discussed. Lastly, Ms. Dabbs highlighted important dates in the development schedule. VLAC’s goal is to have the final platform presented to Directors on February 1, 2018.
There was a motion to approve March 7, 2018 date for Valley Voice Sacramento.
First Motion: Mr. Ahron Hakimi Second Motion: Ms. Andrew Chesley No Nays Motion Carried
![Page 5: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
3
4. California Transportation Funding—SB 1 Implementation Strategy Updates:
• Trade Corridor Enhancements (SJCOG & MCAG) The Trade Corridor Enhancement Program guidelines were approved. Applications are due January 30, 2018 and require 30% match.
• Solutions for Congested Corridors (Fresno COG)
Mr. Andrew Chesley noted the multi-‐modal corridor plan requirement.
• ITIP (TCAG & StanCOG) Mr. Ted Smalley thanked District 6 staff for their efforts in getting the SR 99 projects in the ITIP.
5. State Route 99 Project Prioritization M. Sigala Review Existing Conditions and Current Planned Projects, and Preliminarily Discuss Framework for
Criteria and Evaluation Mr. Michael Sigala provided a Powerpoint overview of existing conditions on SR 99. The information was derived from the recent goods movement studies. Discussion ensued. Mr. Smalley and Mr. Chesley will work on developing criteria for further project prioritization discussions.
6. Additional Discussion Items: a. Directors Workshop, January 2018
Mr. Michael Sigala requested input from Directors regarding a workshop date, facilitator and location. Agenda topics will be discussed during Directors’ December meeting.
b. Spring 2018 Policy Conference Mrs. Rosa Park announced the conference dates, May 9 thru 11, 2018 in Modesto.
INFORMATIONAL ITIEMS 7. Caltrans Directors’ Report S. Ehlert/D. Agar Caltrans will be organizing an SB 1 partnership forum.
8. San Joaquin JPA for Passenger Rail D. Leavitt
• Currently working on TRCP application to increase service to Sacramento. • Beginning the process of drafting 2018 SJJPA business plan update.
9. California High Speed Rail D. Gomez
10. Goods Movement Planning M. Sigala Hard copy of final report will be circulated at next Directors’ meeting.
11. Rural Transit Alternatives Study/UC Davis M. Sigala
Final report has been uploaded to website. TAC meetings will resume in November. 12. California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley I. Herrera
A letter listing deliverables for MPO contributions was circulated and discussed.
![Page 6: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
4
OTHER ITIEMS
13. Director Items – Activities covered under the Valleywide Coordinator contract (Sigala) will be discussed
under closed session at the December meeting. 14. Public Presentations for Items not on Agenda There were no public presentations.
Meeting Adjourned at Approximately 12:00 P.M
Next Directors’ Meeting: Thursday, December 7, 2017 in Bakersfield
Appendix A – Additional Meeting Attendees
In Attendance: Individual(s) Organization(s) Ben Kimball Tulare County Association of Governments Stacie Dabbs Merced County Association of Governments Matt Fell Merced County Association of Governments Michael Sigala Valleywide Coordinator, Sigala Inc Ryan Niblock San Joaquin Council of Governments Daniel Krauss SJJPA Ishmael Herrera San Joaquin Partnership Trai Her (ph) Fresno Council of Governments Sharri Elert (ph) Caltrans Gail Miller (ph) Caltrans Tom Dumas (ph) Caltrans Alex Maricucui (ph) Sierra Research Robert Ball (ph) Kern Council of Governments Scott Carson (ph) Federal Highway Administration
![Page 7: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
925 L Street, Suite 220, Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 446-‐‑5508<Fax: (916) 446-‐‑14099
November 29, 2017 Andrew T. Chesley, Executive Director San Joaquin Council of Governments 555 E Weber Avenue Stockton, CA 95202-2804 RE: Proposal for Counsultant Services: Coordination of the San Joaquin Valley Regional Policy Council’s Valley Voice Annual Advocacy Trip Dear Andy, The consulting and advocacy firm of Smith, Watts & Hartmann is pleased to submit a proposal to you for consulting for the coordination activities related to the 2018 advocacy visit to the Capital under the auspices of the San Joaquin Valley Regional Policy council. It is our understanding that this advocacy trip is scheduled for March 7, 2018, and involves a wide range of meetings with the relevant county legislative delegations, other key legislative leaders and administration officials. In addition to coordinating these sessions, the work effort would necessitate regular contact with the related San Joaquin leadership organizations and assistance in the development of the advocacy platform and associated strategies on presentation and materials. As I had indicated in previous emails, I would propose a fee of $3000 to undertake this effort. Our firm has the experience and the necessary available time to devote to establishing a quality advocacy visit on your behalf. I will be the contact person for this proposal: Mark Watts, Principal Smith, Watts & Hartmann 925 L Street, Suite 220 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 446-5508 Fax: (916) 446-1499 Email: [email protected] On behalf of our firm, we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to work with you and the other San Joaguin Valley leaders and look forward, if selected, to developing a successful.program. Sincerely,
Mark Watts,
![Page 8: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
925 L Street, Suite 220, Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 446-‐‑5508<Fax: (916) 446-‐‑14099
Principal Cc: Audra Hartmann, Principal, Smith, Watts & Hartmann Attachment: Scope of Work
Scope of Work Consultant Services
Coordinate of a one-‐‑day legislative advocacy trip to Sacramento for the San Joaquin Valley Regional Policy Council’s Valley Voice
program
• Organize an itinerary for a one-‐‑day advocacy trip to Sacramento (March 7, 2018) to include meetings with the following and others as identified by the RPC and staff:
o Members and staff for the eight-‐‑county legislative delegation o Policy Committee Chairs and Consultants (Senate and Assembly) o California State Transportation Authority o California Transportation Commission o Department of Transportation o Key staff from the Governor’s “Horseshoe” (cabinet level staff) o Others as needed based on the adopted legislative platform
• Participate in up to five calls with the Valley Legislative Affairs Committee (VLAC), Valley Directors’ Committee, and/or Regional Policy Council to provide Sacramento insight throughout the development of the legislative platform and to provide strategy on messaging and talking points.
• Secure a room in the State Capitol for the day of meetings. • Secure a lunch venue and speaker. • Develop brief talking points and key messages for each topic. • Provide biography and legislative priorities for each individual/agency the group
will meet with. • Provide a podium continuity document for the Policy Council Chair to ensure a
smooth transition from meeting to meeting.
![Page 9: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
Proposal for Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 1
ABOUT TPA
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day
November 8, 2017
WWW.TOWNSENDPA.COM
SACRAMENTO • WASHINGTON, DC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA • CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
![Page 10: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 2
November 8, 2017 Stacie Dabbs, Deputy Executive Director Merced County Association of Governments San Joaquin Valley Policy Council 369 W. 18th Street Merced, CA 95340 Dear Ms. Dabbs: Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to coordinate the annual Valley Voice Advocacy Day in Sacramento on behalf of the San Joaquin Valley Policy Council (“Council”). Since its inception in 1998, TPA has earned the reputation of providing the experience, resources, and relationships expected from a premier advocacy and grant writing firm while also giving clients the unique brand of customer service they deserve: personal attention, accessibility, and passion for their mission. TPA uses a strategic and comprehensive approach for managing advocacy and grant funding that is tailored to leverage our expertise and vast political network to help achieve legislative results and grant awards for our clients. We have shepherded dozens of legislative and regulatory proposals into law, and secured over $1 billion in competitive grants from federal, state, regional, and local government agencies, as well as nonprofit and private sources. Our success is the result of the breadth and depth of our experience as dedicated federal and state advocates and grant writers. Thank you again for your interest in our firm and your consideration of our proposal. Please contact us if you have any questions or need additional information. We would be honored to serve the San Joaquin Valley Policy Council. Yours truly,
Christopher Townsend President
![Page 11: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
Proposal for Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 3
ABOUT TPA
TPA is a legislative advocacy and grant writing firm that provides federal, state, regional, and local advocacy and funding services to our clientele of public agencies and nonprofit organizations throughout California.
Founder/Owner/President: Christopher Townsend
Advocacy Success: Shepherded dozens of client-sponsored legislative proposals into law
Funding Success: Over $1 billion in federal, state, regional, and local government grants as well as nonprofit and private grants.
Longevity: 19 years (founded in 1998)
Number of Employees: 15
Number of Registered State and Federal Lobbyists and Grant Writers: 12
Number of Offices: Five o TPA Federal Office, Washington, DC o TPA State Capitol Office, Sacramento o TPA Northern California Office, Oakland o TPA Central California Office, Fresno o TPA Southern California Office, Newport Beach
Client Base: 88 Clients
o City Governments o County Governments o Water and Sanitation Districts o Transportation Districts o K-12 School Districts o Community College Districts o Parks and Recreation Districts o Museums, Science Centers, and Cultural Facilities
Areas of Specialization:
o Local Governance (Cities, Counties, Special Districts) o Water and Sanitation Policy and Infrastructure o Transportation Policy and Infrastructure o Education Policy and Infrastructure o Parks and Community Facilities (Recreational, Cultural, Historical) o Natural Resources and Energy o Housing and Economic Development o Public Safety o Budget and Finance
Ranking by Revenue Reported to the California Secretary of State:
o 10th of 436 Firms Registered for 2015-16 Legislative Session o 98th Percentile
![Page 12: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 4
SCOPE OF SERVICES
TPA proposes the following services to coordinate the annual Valley Voice Advocacy Day in Sacramento on behalf of the Council:
Organize an Itinerary: TPA will organize an itinerary for a 1-day trip to Sacramento (March 7, 2018) to include meetings with the following and others as identified by Council staff:
o Members and staff for the 8-county legislative delegation o Policy Committee Chairs and Consultants (Senate and Assembly) o California State Transportation Agency o California Transportation Commission o Department of Transportation o Key staff from the Governor’s Office o Others, as needed, based on the adopted legislative platform
Provide Strategy on Messaging and Talking Points: TPA will participate in up to five calls
with the Valley Legislative Affairs Committee (VLAC), Valley Directors’ Committee, and/or Regional Policy Council to provide strategy on messaging and talking points.
Develop Talking Points: TPA will work to develop brief talking points and key messages for
each topic addressed.
Provide a Biography and Legislative Priorities: TPA will provide a biography and list of legislative priorities for each individual/agency that the group will meet with throughout the day.
Provide a Podium Continuity Document: TPA will provide a podium continuity document
for the Policy Council Chair to ensure smooth transition from meeting to meeting.
Secure a Lunch Venue and Speaker: TPA will secure a venue and guest speaker for the lunch hour.
Secure a Room in the State Capitol: TPA will secure a room in the State Capitol to host
meetings for the day.
![Page 13: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
Proposal for Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 5
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Christopher Townsend, President: Christopher founded TPA in 1998 and has over 35 years of experience in public affairs, legislative advocacy, and grant writing. Christopher and TPA have represented 294 clients, including 226 local public agencies, such as cities, counties, transportation agencies, water and sanitation districts, school districts, community college districts, park and recreation districts, and other special districts, as well as nonprofit organizations.
Christopher provides leadership to a team of 15 professionals and manages the development and implementation of strategies for client agendas. Some achievements include:
Under Christopher’s leadership, TPA has shepherded dozens of legislative and regulatory
proposals into law over a wide range of policy areas, including local governance, water and sanitation, transportation, education, housing and economic development, parks and natural resources, historical and cultural resources, and public safety. The bipartisan capabilities of the firm are demonstrated by legislative successes over the tenure of several administrations, including Governors Pete Wilson, Gray Davis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jerry Brown.
Christopher and his team have secured over $1 billion in local, regional, state, and federal government grants as well as nonprofit and private grants for a multitude of legacy projects in the policy sectors of water and sanitation, transportation, education, housing and economic development, parks and natural resources, historical and cultural resources, and public safety.
Christopher and TPA have participated in the development and implementation of several California bond propositions for the statewide ballot to provide capital funding for major infrastructure projects, including water and sanitation, transportation, education, housing and economic development, parks and natural resources, and historical and cultural resources, including Propositions 1, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 12, 13, 14, 40, 47, 50, 55, and 84. Christopher worked closely with the legislature over the last two years on the drafting of SB 5 (De Leon), the $4 billion park bond legislation that has been signed by the Governor to be placed on the June 2018 statewide ballot.
In 2002, Christopher was personally requested by Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown to help him secure funding for three of his priority projects for the City of Oakland: the establishment of the Oakland Military Institute (OMI), the creation of a permanent facility for the Oakland School of the Arts (OSA), and the renovation and restoration of the historic Fox Theater. Under Christopher’s leadership, TPA secured over $24.5 million for all three projects.
![Page 14: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
Proposal for Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 6
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Prior to TPA, Christopher served as a Senior Director of Government and Community Affairs for PepsiCo, Inc. and Vice President of Public Affairs for Stein-Brief Group, Inc., a major land developer in Southern California. Christopher’s academic achievements include:
Master of Public Administration, JFK School of Government, Harvard University Bachelor of Arts, Claremont McKenna College Coro Fellow Harry S Truman Scholar
![Page 15: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 7
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Richard Harmon, Senior Director: Richard brings 18 years of legislative and public policy experience to TPA, ten of which have been focused on public agencies across California. Richard has special expertise in transportation planning and infrastructure (including State Transportation Agency, California Transportation Commission, and Caltrans). His experience also extends to the policy sectors of public safety, parks and recreation, local governance, and water resources.
At TPA, Richard serves a broad range of public agency clients throughout California. He advocates at the state, regional, and local level for client projects and programs including state grants programs and other funding opportunities. Richard’s network of relationships in both the State Capitol and at Caltrans (combined with his reviewer’s perspective on grant funding proposals) contributes to his success, with accomplishments that include:
Richard worked with the City of Tulare to secure $7.5 million for their State Route 99 Cartmill Avenue Interchange Project from Proposition 1B. Leveraging close relationships at the California Natural Resources Agency and California Transportation Commission, Richard worked with the City of Tulare on the successful development and submittal of an Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program application to complement the City’s interchange project in the amount of $458,260.
Richard worked with the City of Hesperia to secure a $14.6 million loan from the State Water Resources Control Board’s State Revolving Fund to develop a reclaimed water pipeline distribution system. The project conveys tertiary-treated water from its wastewater treatment facility to various locations in the City, with plans to reach other areas in the future. Richard prepared the City’s SRF application, and coordinated all advocacy efforts with the California Legislature and the State Water Resources Control Board.
Richard secured a legislative extension to protect a $460,000 grant that the City of Hayward received from the 2011 Building Equity and Growth in Neighborhoods Program. The funds will be utilized to build a 10-unit homeownership development in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Richard also secured legislation that would authorize the City of El Monte to retain more than $2 million in Traffic Congestion Relief Funds previously received from the State, allowing for critical investment in the City’s streets and roads.
Richard secured $789,000 in state and federal grants for Safe Routes to School (SR2S) sidewalk and safety improvements for the County of Mariposa. Richard then worked closely with Caltrans Headquarters and District 10 staff as they “closed out” SR2S to prepare for its replacement by the Active Transportation Program (ATP). Richard convinced Caltrans to distribute the balance of unspent SR2S funds rather than let them revert to the federal government at the end of their fiscal year. Richard provided justification and cost estimates for additional funding to be allocated to County projects, which resulted in a supplemental SR2S grant of $302,770 to the County for the completion of their safety projects.
![Page 16: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 8
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Prior to joining TPA, Richard was appointed Richard was appointed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to serve as the Legislative and Local Government Affairs Deputy for Caltrans. Richard also served as Chief of Staff in the State Capitol Office for a Member of the California Assembly.
![Page 17: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 9
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Sharon Gonsalves, Senior Associate: Sharon brings over a decade of experience working in legislative advocacy and public policy to TPA. She specializes in the legislative process, reviewing, tracking, and analyzing bills, and monitoring agency regulations with strong relationships from the Capitol, Administration, and key agencies. Sharon has expertise in the policy sectors of housing, local governance, water resources, environment, energy, and agriculture.
Throughout her tenure at TPA, Sharon has worked with local public agency clients, especially those from severely disadvantaged regions of California, to secure millions of dollars for critical infrastructure and public safety improvements. Some of her recent accomplishments include:
Leveraging relationships with the State Legislature, Sharon secured earmarks in the FY17 State Budget in the amounts of $4 million, $1.2 million, and $950,000 to build, rehabilitate, and relocate the police stations in the Cities of Huron, Firebaugh, and Mendota, respectively. Their existing police stations are uninhabitable and unsafe; these funding earmarks will enable these cities to better serve and protect their residents.
Sharon worked with the City of Orange Cove and the Orange Cove Fire Protection District to secure a $568,700 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant. The grant funded the complete cost of a Type 1 interface engine fire truck, replacing a worn and outdated vehicle vital to the operation of the District. The grant also included funds for the complete outfitting of the vehicle with almost $70,000 worth of equipment.
Sharon helped the City of Huron secure a $420,518 grant from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program, administered by the Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG). Sharon participated in the development and submittal of the application, working in coordination with FCOG, the California Department of Transportation, and the US Department of Transportation. The proceeds from this grant will pave multiple roads within the City.
Prior to joining TPA, Sharon spent a decade working in the Legislature for two Assembly Members and most recently, State Senator Anthony Cannella. While Sharon developed, and maintained an extensive bi-partisan network of relationships with Members of the State Legislature, her assignments allowed her to place particular emphasis on the County of Orange, the Central Valley, Coachella Valley, and Imperial Valley.
![Page 18: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 10
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Casey Elliott, State Capitol Director: Casey brings 16 years of legislative and public policy experience to TPA. Casey develops and implements legislative strategies for local public agency clients throughout California. Casey maintains relationships with key members and staff of the State Legislature, the Administration, and select state agencies. Casey has expertise in the policy sectors of municipal finance, budget, redevelopment, education, local governance, water resources, parks and recreation, and cultural resources.
As State Capitol Director, Casey oversees a team of 11 TPA lobbyists registered with the California Secretary of State. Casey has been responsible for developing and implementing the advocacy strategies that transformed dozens of client-sponsored bills into law. He also provides timely expert analysis of the numerous legislative proposals (including State Budget language) introduced each legislative session for their potential effect on TPA clients. Some of Casey’s accomplishments include:
Casey helped the City of Oakland sponsor SB 67 (Perata). The bill cracked down on “sideshow” reckless driving and provided local law enforcement with additional tools to deal with these activities. TPA secured bi-partisan support for the legislation and it was signed into law.
Casey coordinated the efforts of TPA clients that were members of the “Big Ten Mayors” to work with the Office of the Governor to create a program to address gang problems throughout California. Casey’s efforts with the coalition led to the development and funding of the Governor’s California Gang Reduction, Intervention, and Prevention (CalGRIP) initiative. Furthermore, Casey helped TPA clients secure over $4.2 million in CalGRIP funding since the inception of the program.
Casey designed the legislative strategy for the City of Santa Ana to secure an authorization in the State Budget in the amount of $2 million to repair and expand the drinking water infrastructure within the City. Casey work with the Governor and the legislative leadership to ensure funding was provided to the City of Santa Ana to take over the under-funded and under-performing Diamond Park Mutual Water Company.
Through his work with the Department of Finance, the Legislature, and the Office of the Governor, Casey has been able to lessen the impact of RDA dissolution on TPA clients. Specific outcomes include: having over $30 million in projects in Santa Ana, Brea, and Hayward recognized as enforceable obligations; facilitating accelerated transfer of former RDA assets in Buena Park to allow for new development; and the passage of legislation to allow expenditure of certain development agency bond proceeds.
![Page 19: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 11
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Prior to joining TPA, Casey worked in the State Capitol for several years and served as a Senior Legislative Assistant to the Office of the Governor as well as a Legislative Analyst to the Secretary of State. Casey was responsible for bill analysis and provided recommendations for bill positions relating to RDA, local governance, workers’ compensation, and education.
![Page 20: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 12
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Niccolo De Luca Senior Director
Policy Expertise Public Safety Cannabis Policy Parks & Recreation Natural Resources Local Governance Cultural Resources
Grant Writing
Cori Williams Director
Policy Expertise Water Resources Local Governance Transportation Parks & Recreation Economic Development
Grant Writing
Chelsea Vongehr Senior Associate
Policy Expertise
K-12 Education Higher Education Cultural Resources Transit Local Governance
Grant Writing
Alex Gibbs Senior Associate
Policy Expertise Parks & Recreation Local Governance Public Safety Transportation Cap & Trade Labor Relations Grant Writing
Eric O’Donnell Associate
Policy Expertise Water Resources Natural Resources Local Governance Parks & Recreation Transportation
Grant Writing
Laura Kroeger Associate
Policy Expertise Education Water Resources Environmental Hazards Agriculture Healthcare Foreign Affairs Veterans Resources Grant Writing
![Page 21: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 13
CLIENT SERVICE TEAM
Johannus Reijnders Associate
Policy Expertise Education Transportation Local Governance Parks and Recreation Grant Writing
JP Hanna Associate
Policy Expertise Local Governance Transportation Parks and Recreation Grant Writing
![Page 22: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
Proposal to Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day | San Joaquin Valley Policy Council Page 14
FEE SCHEDULE
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES ONE-TIME FEE
Coordinate Valley Voice Advocacy Day
$9,000*
Organize an Itinerary Included
Provide Strategy on Messaging and Talking Points Included
Develop Talking Points Included
Provide a Biography and Legislative Priorities Included
Provide a Podium Continuity Document Included
Secure a Lunch Venue and Speaker Included
Secure a Room in the State Capitol Included
*This one-time fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses
![Page 23: Meeting’Agenda’’ Thursday,’December’7,2017’ …...2017/12/07 · Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (“TPA”) to submit our proposal to](https://reader034.vdocuments.us/reader034/viewer/2022042221/5ec7c66dfd1a1f71356f5a14/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
SA
N J
OA
QU
IN V
AL
LEY REGIONAL PLA
NN
ING
AG
EN
CIE
S’
DIR
ECTORS’ COMMITT
EE
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS – December 7, 2017
7. Caltrans Directors’ Report S. Ehlert/D. Agar Sharri Ehlert (District 6 Director) and Dennis T. Agar (District 10 Director), or their representatives, may be in attendance to provide an update and answer any questions. 8. San Joaquin JPA for Passenger Rail D. Leavitt Dan Leavitt, Manager of Regional Initiatives, or his representative may be in attendance to provide an update and answer any questions. 9. California High Speed Rail D. Gomez Diana Gomez, Central Valley Regional Director, or her representative may be in attendance to provide an update and answer any questions. 10. San Joaquin Valley Goods Movement Planning M. Sigala
• All work for the I-‐5/SR 99 Goods Movement Corridor Study, and San Joaquin Valley Goods Movement Sustainable Implementation Plan has been completed.
• Major deliverables including the final reports, and other information for both studies, are posted on
the sjvcog’s website: http://sjvcogs.org/valleywide_activities/good-‐movement/ 11. Rural Transit Alternatives Study/UC Davis ITS M. Sigala The final draft report of the Opportunities for Shared-‐Use Mobility Services in Rural Disadvantaged Communities in the California’s San Joaquin Valley: Existing Conditions and Conceptual Program Development was submitted to the Technical Advisory Committee in October for review. Here is the link to the report: http://sjvcogs.org/wp-‐content/uploads/2017/09/Final-‐Report-‐Transit-‐Alternatives.pdf The technical advisory committee had a meeting in November to discuss continued implementation of the Conceptual Programs. The ARB grant for shared mobility options will commence in 2018 and coincide with the ongoing implementation efforts. 12. California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley I. Herrera Ismael Herrera, Lead Executive, may be in attendance to provide an update and answer any questions.