HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-09-08 Special Called Meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors
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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CALLED REGULAR MEETING OF THE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
June 9, 2008
1. Call to order
President Pat Muston called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Members Present: Love, Muston, Clausen, Engelken, Matuszak, and Moser
Members/Officers Absent: Wise
Staff Present: City Manager Ron Bottoms, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins,
Economic Development Coordinator Gretchen Larson, Planning Director Tim Tietjens, Main Street Coordinator
Debra Dye, and Assistant City Manger John Joerns.
Others Present: Mr. and Mrs. Ray Key, Pat Clark, Kathryn Aguilar, Ted Powell, Phillip Hoot, Dottie Kaminski,
David Janda, Vicky Campise, Bobby Schlenk, Mark Follis, and Garson Silvers.
2. Consider approval of minutes of the Special Called Meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation Board of
Directors, held on May 5,2008.
A motion was made by Board Member Matuszak to approve the Minutes of May 5, 2008 of the Special Called
Regular Meeting of La Porte Development Corporation Board. The motion was seconded by Board Member
Love. The motion carried.
Ayes: Love, Muston, Clausen, Engelken, Matuszak, and Moser.
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Wise
#5 This item was taken out of order.
Consider approval or other action of a budget adjustment to the La Porte Development Corporation FY 2008
Budget in the amount of $40,000.00 for the City of La Porte website refurbishment.
Economic Development Coordinator Gretchen Larson made the presentation and recommendation to the Board
and answered questions.
A motion was made by Board Member Matuszak to approve a budget adjustment to the La Porte Development
Corporation FY 2008 Budget in the amount of $40,000.00 for the City of La Porte website refurbishment as
presented by Ms. Larson. A second by Board member Engelken. The motion carried.
Ayes: Love, Muston, Clausen, Engelken, Matuszak, and Moser
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
3. A Public Hearing was called at 5:10 p.m. to discuss the Town Square as a Project of the Corporation, with
locations to be discussed at the intersections of S. Broadway, San Jacinto and Main Street.
La Porte Economic Development Corporation Coordinator Gretchen Larson made a presentation and
recommendation to City Council. In addition, Ms. Larson answered Council's questions.
Public Comments:
Page 2 6/9/08 4b Development Corporation Minutes
Bobby Schlenk, 620 S. 4th Street, was in opposition of the Town Square Project. He mentioned that no relief
was offered before when he and other property owners were trying to clean up Main Street in the past. He also
said that until the infrastructure is fixed on Main Street, this will only contribute to the poor traffic that already
exists.
Ted Powell, 1700 Roscoe, requests back up information to be made available for public on the website. He is
opposed to the City being involved to with this project. He noted concerns about the City having financial liability
if the developer pulled out of the project. He further suggested that the Economic Development Board should
be working on things that would bring private investment to the community. Mr. Powell noted he was in
agreement with Mr. Schlenk regarding improvements to the infrastructure of the Main Street area.
Vicky Campise, 1902 S. Roscoe, noted concerns with a development of this size skewing property values of
existing buildings and expressed concerns on traffic and parking. She asked if the Economic Development staff
have any hope of bringing retail to Main St. and asked why the City purchased a Main Street building and left it
without improvements for over a year. Another question raised was has the City checked whether or not the
height of some of the buildings in the proposed drawings will hinder the flight path to the La Porte Municipal
Airport. She expressed her concerns for existing property owners on Main Street and their lack of support from
the City.
Kathryn Aguilar, 3119 Fondren, is encouraged by the proposed development, but thinks the city is going about it
in the wrong way. The City should be more involved in rebuilding infrastructure and determining what types of
businesses are needed along Main Street. She noted that the city should be encouraging all types of
businesses instead of dictating what types of businesses should be brought into Main Street. She suggested
specialized retail such as a bike and/or skateboard shop.
Pat Clark, 3810 Ashwyne Circle, agrees with Ms. Aguilar and Ms. Campise. She discouraged the City from
allowing mega buildings to be built. She would rather see the City pursue quaint shops and other businesses
that provide citizens with something to do and activities for citizens to attend in the Main Street area.
The Public Hearing was closed at 5.47 p.m.
4. A Public Hearing was called at 5.48 p.m. to discuss the proposed Gateway Enhancements located at 912 West
Main.
La Porte Economic Development Corporation Coordinator Gretchen Larson presented a summary and
recommendation to City Council and answered questions.
Public Comments:
Mark Follis, 831 S. 7th, suggested turning this location into a City Museum.
Ted Powell, 1800 Roscoe, agreed with a Museum or visitor's center. He suggested fixing drainage issues and
correcting infrastructure.
Pat Clark, 3817 Ashwyne agrees with a Museum, something highlighting La Porte.
Vickie Campise, 1902 Roscoe, said that by anchoring another restaurant on Main Street will impact the other
restaurants that have been struggling to survive.
Bob Schlenk, 620 South 4th, agrees with the possibility of a Museum and charging an entrance fee of $5.00.
Kathryn Aguilar, 3119 Fondren, noted concerns with a museum and noted that the City should be gearing
towards a younger age group.
The Public Hearing was closed at 6:00 p.m.
5. This item was taken out of order on Agenda, after #2 of this Agenda.
Page 3 69/08 4b Development Corporation Minutes
6. Executive Session- pursuant to provision of the Open Meetings Law. Chapter 551, Texas Government Code,
Sections 551-071 through 551.076, 551.087 (consultation with attorney, deliberation regarding real property,
deliberation regarding prospective gift or donation, personnel matters, deliberation regarding security devices,
or excluding a witness during examination of another witness in an investigation, deliberation regarding
economic development negotiations).
A. Section 551.087 (Economic Development Negotiations)
Meet with City Manager and
Economic Development
Coordinator to discuss Town
Square Project, the Gateway
Enhancement Project and the RFP
for the City-Wide Economic
Development Strategic Plan
The Board adjourned to Executive Session at 6:00 p.m.
The Board reconvened the regular meeting at 6:30.p.m.
There was no action taken in Executive Session.
7. Announcements/Administrative Reports
City Manager Ron Bottoms and Economic Development Coordinator Gretchen Larson presented
updates on current Projects Listing.
8. Board Comments
There were no comments from the Board Members.
9. Adjournment
The meeting was duly adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Yl;tildtt~
Martha Gillett,
City Secretary TRMC, CMC
La Porte Development Corporation Secretary
Passed and approved on this 1 day of Z 2008.
pat.....~ \usto. n~.,.. pre~sident . ..~
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REQUEST FOR LPEDC BOARD AGENDA ITEM
Bud2et
Requested By:
Source of Funds:
EDC
Department:
Account Number: Fund 038
Report: X Resolution:
Amount Budgeted:
$0
Exhibits: Previous Council Actions and SB Project Cost
Estimates
Amount Requested:
$600.000
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
As you know the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Beach Renourishment Project was
approved as project in the original TIRZ Project Plan. However, it will be many years before
any funds would be available from the TIRZ for payment of their portion of the funds.
Because the funds have to be available during the FY 2009 Budget cycle, the LPEDC Board
was asked in February of this year whether or not they would consider providing the
necessary funding. At the meeting of February 25, 2008 the Board conducted a public
hearing and accepted the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Beach Renourishment
Project as a Project of the Board. At that meeting staff indicated that this item would be
returned to the Board after April 28. As you can see from the attached information the Parks
Department now has much better cost estimate for the Project. Rather than needing an
estimated $800,000 you now need to consider allocating an amount not to exceed $600,000
in support of the Project. Although we are very confident of the numbers provided we would
ask that you keep in mind that these figures are nonetheless costs estimates. If necessary,
we would return to the Board to ask that you consider any necessary adjustments at a future
meeting.
In addition to this request for funding, the Board must also determine whether or not the
funding will be required to be reimbursed to the Corporation from the TIRZ as funds are
available. The Executive Director of the TIRZ, David Hawes, has indicated that he will draft a
repayment agreement between the TIRZ and the Corporation for consideration and approval
at an upcoming LPRAlTRIZ meeting if necessary. He also reaffirmed that the Project was a
part of the original 1999 TIRZ Project Plan and that the Board had already approved their
participation in the proposed Project in 2004.
the recommended budget adjustment for the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and
enourishment Project in an amount not to exceed $600,000 and determine if
nt of the funds will be required from the LPRAlTIRZ Board.
U~/b;
Da e
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEl\1
Agenda Date Requested: Jun
Appropriation
Requested By:
Source of Funds:
Fund 038
Department:
Acc't Number:
Report: _Resolution: _Ordinance: X
Amount Budgeted:
Exhibits:
Amended Project Cooperation Agreement Amount Requested:
308,161
Exhibits:
Bud eted Item:
YES
NO X
SU~1ARY & RECOM.l\1ENDATION
Earlier in the year City Council approved a Project Cooperation Agreement with the Texas General
Land Office (TGLO) to partially fund the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Beach Nowishment
Project through the Coastal Erosion Planning and Response Act (CEPRA). The engineering firm that
designed and is administering the project for the state has submitted an estimated cost of construction of $3.2
million to fund the project. That estimate exceeds the proposed budget of $2.5 million that is currently
allocated for the project under the current agreement. In order for the state to approve the project for letting,
sufficient funding nmst be in p lace to meet the estimated cost.
The Texas General Land Office has proposed an amendment to the Agreement that V\-ill increase the
project funding to $3,583,333 which will be sufficient to allow for bidding, plus some surplus funding for
contingency, if needed. With this amendment to the agreement, TGLO has added $750,000 of state money to
the project, and increased their share to 60% which reduces our share for the local match from 45% to 40%
from $1,125,172, to $1,433,333, or an additional $308,161 for the project.
Harris County has executed their agreement to pay up to $600,000 as their match for the project.
The additional funding required to make the project happen is $270,747. This is available through the La
Porte Economic Development Board funds, and the board has agreed to participate in the project. Please
note that all the funding discussed at this point are estimates. Weare committing funds for 40% of the actual
project costs, not the estimates; so we won't know how much the beach restoration and shoreline protection
wI11 actually cost until after the project is let, and bids are received This amendment guarantees up to
$750,000 additional funds from the Texas General Land Office, and our additional $308,161, if needed
Staff reconnnends approval of the amendment to the Project Cooperation Agreement to protect the
Sylvan Beach Park shoreline from future deterioration and to restore the historic beach to Sylvan Beach. This
project will have a tremendous positive recreational as well as economic impact on our city.
Action ReQuired bv Council:
Consider approval of: AN ORDINA.,~CE APPROVING ANTI AUTHORIZING A.,~ AME"NTIMENT TO THE
PROJECT COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND THE TEXAS GENERAL
LAND OFFICE TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION MONITORING, AND ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES FOR THE Sl"L V A,~ BEACH SHORELThi'E PROTECTION A1"'D BEACH NOtJRISHMENT PROJECT
ACCORDING TO THE TERMS OF THE AMENDMENT PROVIDED.
Aooroved for Otv Council A2:enda
Date
Ron Bottoms, City Manager
ORDINANCE NO. 2008-
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING AN AMENDED PROJECT
COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND THE TEXAS
GENERAL LAND OFFICE TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES, AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES FOR THE SYLVAN BEACH
SHORELINE PROTECTION AND BEACH NOURISHMENT PROJECT ACCORDING TO
THE TERMS OF THE AGREEMENT PROVIDED; APPROPRIATING ADDITIONAL
FUNDING OF $308,161.00 FOR A TOTAL OF $1,433,333.00 TO FUND SAID
AGREEMENT; MAKING VARIOUS FINDINGS AND PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE
SUBJECT; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby approves and authorizes the contract, agreement, or
other undertaking described in the title of this ordinance, a copy of which is on file in the office of
the City Secretary. The City Manager is hereby authorized to execute such document and all related
documents on behalf of the City of La Porte. The City Secretary is hereby authorized to attest to all
such signatures and to affix the seal of the City to all such documents. The City Council appropriates
additional funding in the sum not to exceed $308,161.00 for the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection
and Beach Nourishment from the 038 Fund, to fund the City's share of said Agreement, but said
appropriation shall be contingent upon La Porte Development Corporation Board approval for
expenditures for said project, and subsequent City Council approval of the La Porte Development
Corporation Board's decision. In the case that either the La Porte Development Corporation or the
City Council denies approval for expenditures for said project, the subject contract shall be declared
null and void.
Section 2. The City Council officially finds, determines, recites, and declares that a
sufficient written notice ofthe date, hour, place, and subject of this meeting ofthe City Council was
posted at a place convenient to the public at the City Hall of the City for the time required by law
Page 1 of2
preceding this meeting, as required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; and that this meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all times during which
this ordinance and the subject matter thereof has been discussed, considered and formally acted
upon. The City Council further ratifies, approves, and confirms such written notice and the contents
and posting thereof.
Section 3. This Ordinance shall be effective from and after its passage and approval, and it is
so ordered.
PASSED AND APPROVED, this 23 RD day of JUNE 2008.
CITY OF LA PORTE
By:
Alton E. Porter,
Mayor
ATTEST:
Martha Gillett,
City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Clark T. Askins,
Assistant City Attorney
Page 2 of2
PROJECT COOPERATION AGREEMENT
FOR FINAL DESIGN, BIDDING AND CONSTRUCTION FUNDING
FOR
SYLVAN BEACH SHORELINE PROTECTION AND BEACH NOURISHMENT
GLO CONTRACT No. 08-090-000
CEPRA PROJECT NO. 1404
AMENDMENT No.1
The GENERAL LAND OFFICE (GLO) and the CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS (Qualified
Project Partner), parties to that certain Project Cooperation Agreement (Agreement) effective
February 1, 2008, and denominated GLO Contract No. 08-090-000, now desire to amend the
Agreement.
WHEREAS, additional funding is required for successful completion of the construction
phase of the project; and
WHEREAS, the parties desire to increase the Budget of the Agreement to allow for
successful completion of the Project;
NOW THEREFORE, the GLO and Qualified Project Partner hereby agree to amend and
modify the Agreement as follows:
1. Section 1.03. of the Agreement, PROJECT BUDGET, is hereby amended and
modified by replacing the existing Budget with the Revised Budget attached hereto
and incorporated herein for all purposes as Attachment C-l, in an amount not to
exceed the sum of THREE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED EIGHTY-THREE THOUSAND
THREE HUNDRED TmRTY-THREE DOLLARS ($3,583,333.00). The amount payable
from the Account under this Agreement shall not exceed Two MILLION ONE
HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($2,150,000.00). In the event the parties agree
that additional tasks and/or funds are required for the completion of the Project, an
amendment to this Agreement shall be executed.
2. Section 3.01 P ARTNER MATCH of the Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced by
the following language:
3.01. PARTNER MATCH. a. The Qualified Project Partner shall be responsible
for at least forty percent (40%) of the shared project costs as set forth in this
Agreement (partner Match) and may be subject to a Partner Match exceeding this
minimum amount. The Qualified Project Partner acknowledges that costs
incurred by the Qualified Project Partner before entering into this Agreement
GLO Contract No. 08-090-000
Amendment No.1
Page 1 of 2
and expenditures not in accordance with the Project Budget in Attachment C-l
may not be used to offset the Partner Match.
b. In-kind goods or services provided by the Qualified Project Partner after
entering into this Agreement may be used to offset the Qualified Project Partner's
shared costs for the project provided the Qualified Project Partner presents the GLO
with reasonable basis for estimating the monetary value of those goods or services.
For an in-kind Partner Match, valuing and accounting determinations should be
provided to the GLO within thirty (30) days of construction bid posting with Texas
Marketplace, and include a description of the Partner Match, how it is to be provided,
and a timeline for providing it over the course of the Agreement. All in-kind Partner
Match determinations are subject to the review and approval of the GLO. The
decision to allow any in-kind goods or services to offset cost-sharing requirements is
in the sole discretion of the GLO. All in-kind Partner Match requirements must be
accounted for before the expiration of this Agreement.
c. For the cash Partner Match, a sum equal to forty percent (40%) of the prior
month's Project expenses shall be due each month. This match contribution should
be submitted to:
Texas General Land Office
Coastal Erosion Planning and Response Act (CEPRA)-MATCH
Mail Code 151
P.O. Box 12873
Austin, TX 78711-2873
Attn: Dianna Gordon
3. Except as amended and modified by this Amendment No.1, all terms and conditions of
the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
GENERAL LAND OFFICE
CITY OF LA PORTE
~
L L. Laine, Chief Clerk!
Deputy Land COmrrrissiOZ
Date of execution: c; ~ I t e
I
M,.!;.. s A:~' ~r
r' ').. 'vc:r~
~)v/(Lf.G.o'
G.c.
Name:
Title:
Date of execution:
GLO Contract No. 08-090-000
Amendment No.1
Page 2 of2
ATTACHMENT C-l
GLO CONTRACT No. 08-090-000
AMENDMENT No.1
REVISED BUDGET
AMENDED BUDGET
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Beach Nourishment Project
CEPRA Project NO. 1404
Attachment Lr i /,
Contract No. osr-(')~()j 1:4-
Page --L of ,
ORIGINAL ADDED AMENDED
CONTRACTUAL BUDGET FUNDS BUDGET
Task 1. Engineering Design Update, Bidding Services, Project
Construction and Construction Management $2,525,172.00 $1,058,161.00 $3,583,333.00
TOTAL PROJECT COST NOT TO EXCEED $2,525,172.00 $1,058,161.00 $3,583,333.00
PROJECT COSTS
QUALIFIED PROJECT PARTNER (QPP): 40% of total project costs
QPP Cash Commitment (City of LaPorte, Harris County) $1,125,172.00 $308,161.00 $1,433,333.00
QPP In-kind Commitment $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
OPP's TOTAL CONTRlBUTlON* $1,125,172.00 $308,161.00 $1,433,333.00
CEPRA: 60% oftotal project costs
CEPRA's TOTAL CONTRIBUTION $1,400,000.00 $750,000.00 $2,150,000.00
TOTAL PROJECT CONTRIBUTIONS $2,525,172.00 $1,058,161.00 $3,583,333.00
COSTS~NGS~Y
. Please specify when using historically undemtilized business as required by state law.
1404 peA Budget Page Amendment 1.xls
5/22/20082:23 PM
1
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection
And Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of
Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
URS PROJECT: 25009779
DATE: MAY 23, 2008
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
Table of Contents
SECTION
PAGE
1.0 INTRODUCTION ... ....... ........ ................ ..... .......................... ............................ 1-1
2.0 SA THYMETRIC SURVEy.... ................ ..... ........ ............. ........ ........ ................. 2-1
3.0 COST ESTIMATE UPDATE ............................................................................3-1
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
List of Tables
TABLE
Table 1 - Price Level Changes in Estimate
Table 2 - Armor Stone Manufacturers
Table 3 - Quantity Changes Based on Updated Survey
Table 4 - Cost Estimate Additional Items
Table 5 - Estimate of Probable Cost
ii
Last Revised:05/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
List of Figures
FIGURES
Figure 1 - Tide Reference Chart
iii
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
List of Appendices
APPENDICES
Appendix A - Hydrographic Survey
iv
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Historic Sylvan Beach Park is located within the City of La Porte, Texas on property owned by
Harris County. In 2003, an initial design and cost estimate was completed based on surveys
performed shortly before that time period. A more recent survey was performed to confirm
existing site conditions and ensure accurate quantity take-ofts and construction bid estimates.
The hydrographic survey was performed by Landtech Consultants in April of 2008. The
updated survey information was used to update project construction costs. The cost estimate
will also be revised based on minor changes in design and to reflect 2008 price levels.
1-1
Last Revised:05/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
2.0 SA THYMETRIC SURVEY
A hydrographic and shoreline survey was conducted on April 15, 2008 by Landtech Consultants
to supplement the existing bathymetric survey performed in 2003. The purpose of this activity
was to obtain a better understanding of the shoreline and adjacent bay bottom. The scope of
work included:
· Hydrographic survey of approximately 1,700 feet of shoreline; and
· Collect survey transect data at every 100 feet along the project shoreline which equates
to approximately 17 transects. Each transect extends 50 feet landward of the shoreline
to 450 feet from the shoreline.
Bathymetric data was collected using a single-beam dual-frequency echosounder. The US
Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) standards for "Hydrographic Surveying" were followed
when applicable. The survey meets "Other General Surveys & Studies (Coastal Engineering
Surveys)" specifications according to USACE Manual No. 1110-2-1003, dated April 1, 2004.
Quality control and quality assurance procedures as presented in the USACE Manual were
followed where applicable.
North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) 88, State Plane Texas South Central (FIPS 4204) Zone,
and North American Datum (NAD) 83, in US feet were used for this survey. Survey control was
recovered, set and checked with existing control in the area. Sea level datum were referenced
to the nearest tidal gauge located at Morgans Point (see Figure 1 below). Static GPS
processing techniques were used to check the horizontal and vertical coordinates at the GPS-
RTK base location.
Overall, the survey data showed a slight increase in depth throughout the project location when
compared to the previous survey. The survey deliverables have been included as Appendix A
to this report.
Figure 1: Tide Reference Chart
Morgans Point 87706131
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0
~ .,;
.,;
;~
Naiarnith Marin. Sarvioes l'
e_ FJoor eurveyll'l1iJ
2-1
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
3.0 COST ESTIMATE UPDATE
The update to the cost estimate involved three major modifications as it relates to the project.
The modifications are as listed below:
· Price level adjustments as it relates to the rise in costs based on inflation between
2003 and 2008.
· Changes to quantities related to the updated survey information; and
· Additions/Changes to the estimate that were previously not included.
Price Level Adiustments
Items within the cost estimate were revised based on adjustments in price levels from 2003 to
2008. The main adjustments occurred to the following items located in Table 1 below:
Table 1: Price Level Adjustments in Estimate
Item
Armor Stone
Crushed Concrete Fill
Sand
Aluminum Bleacher Seat
2003 Cost
$ 50.00
$ 20.00
$ 15.00
$ 300.00
2008 Cost
$ 68.00
$ 29.00
$ 22.00
$ 350.00*
*Price may increase if a more architectural appealing option is selected.
Costs for armor Stone varied based on the contractor and the type of stone. Two different types
of armor Stone were priced out based on required specifications and aesthetic quality. The
vendors, stone type, delivery methods, and total costs are shown in Table 2 below:
Table 2: Armor Stone Suppliers
SUDDlier
Gulf Coast Limestone
Avila Stone
Luhr Brothers
Stone
~
Limestone
Granite
Limestone
Deliverv
Method
Truck
Barge
Barge
Total Cost Ranae
Delivered and
Installed lDer ton)
$67.00 - $77.00
$52.00 - $72.00
$65.00 - $75.00
*Range varies due to fuel costs
3-1
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
Chanaes to Quantities based on Uodated SUNev Information
The recent survey performed by Landtech Consultants showed a slight increase in depth at the
eastern region of the groins. The increase in depth resulted in slight changes in stone and
barge access channel dredging quantities. The changes in quantities are located in Table 3
below:
Table 3: Quantity Changes Based on Updated Survey
Item
Armor Stone
Barge Access Dredging*
2003
Quantitv
10,600 tons
4,800 CY
2008
Quantitv
10,840 tons
3,900 CY
*Quantity in Cost Estimate is shown as Lump Sum
AdditionslChanaes to the Cost Estimate
Additional items in the estimate that have been added include lighting plan and a fee for
engineering oversight services during construction and bond fees. The additional items are
included in Table 4 below:
Table 4: Cost Estimate Additional Items
Item
Engineering of Lighting Plan
Themed Lighting Structure
Conduit for Lighting
Ground Boxes for Lighting
Engineering Oversight
Performance Bond (2% of Total Cost)
Payment Bond (2% of Total Cost)
Unit
L.S.
Each
L.F.
Each
L.S.
L.S.
L.S.
Quantitv
1
10
2300
30
1
1
1
Unit Price
$15,000.00
$2,700.00
$7.00
$75.00
$107,000.00
$54,311.00
$54,311.00
Extended Price
$15,000.00
$27,000.00
$16,100.00
$2,250.00
$107,000.00
$54,311.00
$54,311.00
The Estimated Probable Cost for the project is located on Table 5 on the next page.
3-2
Last Revised: OS/23/08
Table 5: Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Beach Nourishment Project Date: 5/23/08
Estimate of Probable Cost
Base Bid: Revetment South of Fishing Pier
Item Description Unit Quantity Unn Price Extended Price Item Subtotals
1 Mob/Demob LS 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $50,000.00
2 Barge Access Channel Dredging LS 1 $7,000.00 $7,000.00 $7,000.00
3 RemovaVDisposal of Bulkhead LF 925 $20.00 $18,500.00 $18,500.00
4 Recycle Existing Rubble, Remove Unsunable LS 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $10,000.00
5 South Area Revetment Construction
a Provide and Place Crushed Concrete Fill Tons 1445 $29.00 $41,905.00
b Provide and Place Armor Stone Tons 3015 $68.00 $205,020.00
c Provide and Place Toe Protection Stone Tons 205 $30.00 $6,150.00
d Provide and Place Open Cell CCM SY 1390 $85.00 $118,150.00
e Provide and Place Concrete Walkway LF 940 $165.00 $155,100.00
f Provide and Place Stainless Steel Railing at ADA Ramp LF 88 $75.00 $6,600.00
g Provide and Place Concrete Bollard and Rope Barrier Railing LF 365 $15.00 $5,475.00
h Provide and Place Aluminum Bleacher Seat/Railing Each 56 $350.00 $19,600.00
Provide and Place Geotextile SY 5740 $4.50 $25,830.00
j Provide and Place Stormwater Outfalls Each 4 $5,000.00 $20,000.00
k Remove and Replace Cyclone Fence at Pier LS 1 $500.00 $500.00
I Excavation, Fill, and Grading LS 1 $20,000.00 $20,000.00 $624,330.00
6 Hydro-mulch Seeding LS 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
7 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00 $2,000.00
Base Bid Subtotal $712,830
Bid Additive 1 - Groins South of Fishing Pier
1 MoblDemob LS 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $10,000.00
2 Barge Access Channel Dredging LS 1 $6,000.00 $6,000.00 $6,000.00
3 Provide and Place Armor Stone Tons 2580 $68.00 $175,440.00 $175,440.00
4 Provide and Place Core Stone Tons 795 $30.00 $23,850.00 $23,850.00
5 Provide and Place Toe Protection Stone Tons 225 $30.00 $6,750.00 $6,750.00
6 Provide and Place Geotextile SY 2000 $4.50 $9,000.00 $9,000.00
7 Provide and Place Signs and Markers LS 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00 $2,000.00
8 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00
Bid Additive 1 Subtotal $233,540
Bid Additive 2 - Small Beach Fill South of Fishing Pier
1 Mob/Demob LS 1 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
2 Provide and Place Sand Fill Tons 5200 $22.00 $114,400.00 $114,400.00
3 Provide and Place Swim Line System Each 1 $3,000.00 $3,000.00 $3,000.00
4 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00
Bid Additive 2 Subtotal $117 ,900
Bid Additive 3 - Large Beach Fill South of Fishing Pier
1 Provide and Place Sand Fill Tons 16700 $22.00 $367,400.00 $367,400.00
Bid Additive 3 Subtotal $367,400
TOTAL SOUTH END ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST $1,431,670
Bid Additive 4 - Revetment North of Fishing Pier
Item Description Unn Quantity Unn Price Extended Price
1 Mob/Demob LS 1 $0.00 $0.00
2 Barge Access Channel Dredging LS 1 $7,000.00 $7,000.00
3 RemovaVDisposal of Bulkhead LF 800 $20.00 $16,000.00
4 Recycle Existing Rubble, Remove Unsunable LS 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00
5 South Area Revetment Construction
a Provide and Place Crushed Concrete Fill Tons 1275 $29.00 $36,975.00
b Provide and Place Armor Stone Tons 2665 $68.00 $181,220.00
c Provide and Place Toe Protection Stone Tons 185 $30.00 $5,550.00
d Provide and Place Open Cell CCM SY 1200 $85.00 $102,000.00
e Provide and Place Concrete Walkway LF 825 $165.00 $136,125.00
f Provide and Place Stainless Steel Railing at ADA Ramp LF 88 $75.00 $6,600.00
g Provide and Place Concrete Bollard and Rope Barrier Railing LF 245 $15.00 $3,675.00
h Provide and Place Aluminum Bleacher Seat/Railing Each 56 $350.00 $19,600.00
Provide and Place Geotextile SY 5070 $4.50 $22,815.00
j Provide and Place Stonnwater Outfalls Each 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00
k Remove and Replace Cyclone Fence at Pier LS 1 $500.00 $500.00
I Excavation, Fill, and Grading LS 1 $15,000.00 $15,000.00
6 Hydro-mulch Seeding LS 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
7 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00
Bid Additive 5 - Groins North of Fishing Pier
1 MoblDemob LS 1 $0.00 $0.00
2 Barge Access Channel Dredging LS 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00
3 Provide and Place Armor Stone Tons 2580 $68.00 $175,440.00
4 Provide and Place Core Stone Tons 795 $30.00 $23,850.00
5 Provide and Place Toe Protection Stone Tons 225 $30.00 $6,750.00
6 Provide and Place Geotextile SY 2000 $4.50 $9,000.00
7 Provide and Place Signs and Markers LS 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00
8 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $500.00 $500.00
Bid Additive 6 - Small Beach Fill North of Fishing Pier
1 Mob/Demob LS 1 $0.00 $0.00
2 Provide and Place Sand Fill Tons 5200 $22.00 $114,400.00
3 Provide and Place Swim Line System Each 1 $3,000.00 $3,000.00
4 Pre and Post Construction Surveying LS 1 $500.00 $500.00
Bid Additive 7 - Large Beach Fill North of Fishing Pier
1 Provide and Place Sand Fill Tons 16700 $22.00 $367,400.00
Item Subtotals
$0.00
$7,000.00
$16,000.00
$10,000.00
$535,060.00
$1,000.00
$2,000.00
Bid Additive 4 Subtotal
$0.00
$10,000.00
$175,440.00
$23,850.00
$6,750.00
$9,000.00
$2,000.00
$500.00
Bid Additive 5 Subtotal
$0.00
$114,400.00
$3,000.00
$500.00
Bid Additive 6 Subtotal
Engineering During Construction
TOTAL NORTH END ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST
$367,400.00
Bid Additive 7 Subtotal
Performance Bond (2%)
Payment Bond (2%)
TOTAL PROJECT ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST
Contingency (10%)
TOTAL PROJECT ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST WITH CONTINGENCY
Bid Additive 8 - Themed Lighting
1 Themed Lighting
a
b
c
Structure Each
Condun LF
Ground Box Each
10
2300
30
$2,700.00
$7.00
$75.00
$27,000.00
$16,100.00
$2,250.00
Engineering of Lighting Plan
$45,350.00
Bid Additive 8 Subtotal
TOTAL PROJECT ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST WITH LIGHTING AND CONTINGENCY
$571,060
$227,540
$117,900
$367,400
$1,283,900
$107,000
$54,311
$54,311
$2,931,193
$282,419
$3,213,612
$45,350
$15,000
$3,273,962
Sylvan Beach Shoreline Protection and Nourishment Project
Technical Memorandum of Survey Update and Cost Estimate Summary
APPENDIX A
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Larson, Gretchen
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Barr, Stephen
Wednesday, May 28, 2008 10:27 AM
Bottoms, Ron; Joerns, John
Larson, Gretchen
FW: Sylvan Beach - Final Cost Estimate
Attachments:
Survey and Cost Memo_Complete.pdf
-m
Survey and Cost
Memo_Complete....
Stephen
-----Original Message-----
From: Dennis Rocha [mailto:Dennis.Rocha@GLO.STATE.TX.US]
Sent: Wednesday, May 28, 2008 10:19 AM
To: Barr, Stephen
Subject: Sylvan Beach - Final Cost Estimate
Stephen,
Here is URS's final cost estimate based on the results of the recent bathymetric survey
done in April and refined costs for stone and sand. Represents an increase of about
$200K overall.
Total cost hovers around $3.2M. With the PCA amendment corning, we are in good shape,
since we'll be operating with a $3.5M budget.
- Dennis
1
9
REQUEST FOR LPEDC BOARD AGENDA ITEM
Bude:et
Requested By:
Source of Funds:
EDC
Department:
Account Number: 038603056550.07
Report:
Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Budgeted:
$0
Exhibits:
Amount Requested:
$125.000
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
The City Manager and staff have completed the review of the RFP submittals for the City-
Wide Economic Development Strategic Plan. We have attached a summary sheet of the
firms along with the prices submitted and the original criteria (RFP) requested along with the
top three overall respondents as recommended by the Selection Committee. The Selection
Committee consisted of the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Economic Development
Coordinator, Planning Director, and Finance Director. We also asked that the Economic
Alliance provide us with their thoughts on the firms as they will be in charge of the preliminary
meetings as part of their deliverables to the City.
The firm ranking from the Committee was in order of overall preference as a group was:
Avalanche Consulting, TEEX, Stedman and Associates, Urban Initiatives, and SPPRE. In
making their determination the Committee emphasized, knowledge of the area, similar
studies completed, and overall understanding of what we were seeking as the most important
factors in their recommendation. Price, while important, was not the deciding factor and the
prices from all the firms, except SPPRE, were very close to the industry average for similar
plans and/or scopes of work.
The Committee has recommended that we interview the top firm, Avalanche Consulting and
determine if they are indeed the right fit for us. We can also have the firm make a
presentation to the Board if you would like them to do so. In either event, so that we can
move forward, with either Avalanche or another selection from the submittals, we'd like to ask
that the Board approve the budget adjustment. The budget adjustment would not to exceed
$125,000 for the hiring of a firm and for any additional expenses related to the meetings that
will be necessary throughout the next 9 to 12 months along with any other materials and
supplies.
Action Reauired bv the Board:
Approve the recommended budget adjustment for the hiring of a firm for the completion of a
City-Wide Economic Development Plan in an amount not to exceed $125,000 for fees and for
any costs associated with necessary meetings, materials and supplies.
oved for LPEDC A enda
~ /1 I/o
Date
RFP # 08510 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN BID TABULATION
DESCRIPTION Stedman & TEEX SPPRE Avalanche Urban
Assoc. Consulting Initiatives
Fees and Professional Services $85,000.00 $98,728.00 $215,000.00 $119,500.00 $92,300.00
Information reflects pricing which is only 30% of overall evaluation criteria
Confidential until Firm Selected
CITY OF LA PORTE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
604 W. Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, TX 77571
www.LaPorteTx.aov
www.LarsonG@.LaPorteTx.aov
Phone: (281) 471-5013/ Fax (281) 842-1259
RFP for City Wide Economic Development Plan
Introduction
The City of La Porte is strategically located south of the Houston Ship Channel with
its eastern border on Galveston Bay. The city is at the end of a corridor defined by the
Houston Ship Channel, Battleground Industrial District, and the Bayport Industrial
District. It is bounded on the west side by the Cities of Deer Park and Pasadena. The
City of La Porte has prepared this request for proposal for a city-wide economic
development plan to assist the city in determining the best economic mix for the long-
term and outlining a strategy for attracting that mix. The City understands that because
of our location between two Port of Houston terminals we could fill all remaining land
areas with port related business and be done. However, because we desire to diversify
our tax base and to provide our citizens with shopping and leisure activities, in the
summer of 2006 we commissioned the Buxton Community ID@ Study. It was determined
that from this study we could work to develop a "Retail Attraction Strategy". Additionally
in 2005 the City was officially accepted into the Texas Main Street Program and any
proposed plan developed must review and incorporate the tenants of this Program.
I. Objectives
The overall objective will be to define an economic development strategy for the City
of La Porte. Specific objectives within this context that must be achieved are as
follows:
1. Determine the best economic mix for the City of La Porte in the future; attracting,
creating & retaining jobs; improving workforce & education; and capturing
emerging opportunities.
2. Develop a strategy to achieve the desired economic mix.
3. Determine the adequacy of the current development policies and regulations of
the city.
4. Define the budget and organizational responsibilities for implementation of the
strategy.
II. Scope of Work
While the study approach should be defined by the consultant, there are
several factors that must be covered in the scope of the project. These are:
1
1. Identify Stakeholders/Community Input - Input from both the public and
private sectors of the City of La Porte is required as part of the building
blocks of the economic development plan. It is anticipated that such input
will be required from the public sector at the city, county, and school
district levels. Input will come from the City Council, Economic
Development Corporation, Planning and Zoning Commission, the
Redevelopment AuthoritylTax Increment Refinance Zone, Zoning Board of
Adjustment and the Main Street Advisory Boards. Input must also include
our Citizens, the Chamber of Commerce, the LPISD, the Bay Area
Houston Convention and Visitor's Bureau, and Bay Area Houston
Economic Partnership and the private sector business leaders from
industry, manufacturing, services and the retail sectors. During this phase,
the consultant will work closely with the Economic Alliance Houston Port
Region (a regional economic development non-profit entity) to ensure this
input phase is streamlined and effective.
2. Review of Master/Comprehensive Plan - the City of La Porte has a
detailed Master/Comprehensive Plan for the city that was based upon the
growth potential for the area when the Plan was developed. In view of the
recent changes in the economic situation in the Houston Metropolitan
area, this data should be reviewed carefully to determine if the direction of
the future growth has changed significantly. If there has been a change,
then an analysis of the impact on the Master/Comprehensive Plan should
be conducted.
3. Review of the Development Policies - A thorough review of all
development policies and regulations of the City of La Porte should be
undertaken. The review should contrast La Porte's policies with that of
other cities that have been successful in attracting development. Also,
input from the Planning and Zoning Commission, developers, and
businesses within La Porte should be used to evaluate these policies and
regulations.
2
4. Develop a strategy to enhance the City's Main Street Business District and
examine the potential for redevelopment of Main Street District to include
possibly South Broadway from Main Street along to its intersection with
Fairmont Parkway.
The consultant shall review external forces, existing strengths and
weaknesses and develop objectives and implementation strategies with
clearly defined budgetary and organizational responsibilities needed to
accomplish the objective.
The consultant should also review the current Main Street Program and
provide recommendations to strengthen and enhance current program
and evaluate effectiveness and community support.
The study should also:
a. Consider the historical preservation element setting out plans and
programs for those structures in the City having historical, architectural,
scenic or similar significance. Examine potential for participating in
regional heritage tourism programs in the area as well as public art
venues.
b. Examine the potential for retail shopping, specialty shopping, restaurant
and entertainment opportunities. Examine the potential for festival
shopping and promotion of pedestrian traffic in the City. Review of the
Park Master Plan is required.
c. Examine existing zoning district regulations and policies affecting
development/redevelopment of the City. Prepare recommendations for
revisions where necessary to provide regulations that are most suited to a
targeted area such as Main Street.
d. Examine the potential of development of the properties along Galveston
Bay as a way to reconnect our community with the Bay.
3
e. Examine the potential of the general aviation airport.
f. Examine potential for attracting professional support services for
operations at Barbour's Cut and Bayport facilities as well as the New
Cruise Terminal.
g. Examine potential funding sources, grant opportunities, in kind services,
etc. How can & should the city compete to attract & retain firms in the
target areas? Examine the potential for promoting assistance through Tax
Policies and the preliminary economic development incentives policy
which can include:
Property and Sales Tax Incentives
Tax Abatements and Tax Increment Financing
Public Improvement Districts
Freeport Exemptions
Foreign Trade Zones
380 Agreements
Enterprise/Empowerment Zones
5. Assessment of the regional Houston MSA economy - movement in regional
Houston economy in the last 5 years, the current situation and future direction of
the Houston economy should be included as part of the overall effort. Also, an
assessment as to how the changes in the Houston economy are likely to affect
the southeast portion of the Gulf Coast and the City of La Porte and its plans
should also be undertaken.
6. Identification of Alternative Strategies - The consultant should develop several
alternative strategies for achieving the type of economic development that is
desired by the City of La Porte. The positives and negatives of each strategy
should be outlined carefully and a recommended strategy provided by the
consultant to the city.
Contents of the Proposal
The proposal should contain the following major sections.
4
1. Statement as to the objectives of the study that will demonstrate that the
consultant understands the needs of the City of La Porte in regards to this
particular project.
2. Study Approach - This section should outline in detail the proposed
approach to preparing the economic development plan. Specific steps
should be called out in detail along with a schedule for each of the tasks
and a proposed set of checkpoint meetings during the course of the study.
3. Project Management - The senior people involved in the development of
the plan should be identified and their role spelled out by task. The
qualifications of each of the senior consultants should also be spelled out
in this section and resumes for those people included in an Appendix.
Also, the consultant should define a proposed method for working with the
city management and reporting progress.
4. Qualifications - This section should contain a historical overview of the
consulting firm described and describe other similar projects that have
been undertaken. It should also identify any additional resources within
the firm that are available should they be needed during the course of the
project.
a. Proposed Budgets - The proposed budget should be broken out by
each major task within the study approach. The cost should be
further broken into professional fees and expenses associated with
each task.
b. References - The consultant should include at a minimum three (3)
references for similar type of work that has been undertaken within
the last five (5) years. The name and telephone number of each
reference should be provided in proposal.
5
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. valanche
1601 0 West 6th Street
Austin. TX 78703
OFFICE: 512.472.1555
FAX: 512.933.2937
May 27, 2008
City of La Porte
2963 North 23rd Street
LaPorte, Texas 77571
Dear City of La Porte Leaders,
Avalanche Consulting, Inc. is very pleased to submit this proposal for strategic planning services to
the City of La Porte. We have assembled a highly experienced team with a lon,g history of success
in economic analysis, urban design, strategic planning, marketing, and public policy consulting. We
believe we are the best suited team in the nation for addressing the City's unique combination of
opportunities and emphasis on quality of place.
During this six-month process, we will develop a 5-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan for
the City of La Porte. It will contain an economic assessment, community surveJj target audience
profiles, SWOT analysis, community development and marketing action plans, master plan review
and recommendations, development policy reyjewand recommendations, a Main Street Business
District action plan, and an implementation guide:. -~-
The following proposal describes our project understanding, scope of services, and qualifications.
We thank you for your consideration, and look forWard to answering any questions you might have
about our team or our approach.
f
~
Amy Holloway, President and CEO
Avalanche Consulting, Inc.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE city OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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valanche
PROJECT UNDERSTANDING
The City of La Porte vj.ews economic
development in a broader context than
traditional industry recruitment. The City's
stated objectives reflect its commitment to
'quality of place' - a longer-ranging and more
comprehensive approach to development. At
the core of this commitment is smart planning
that will have long-lasting effects on the City's
ability to recruit and retain talent. It requires
development policies that ensure growth is of a
high quality and aligns with the City's long-term
vision.
What is 'Quality of place'?
High quality places:
Offer natural, r~creational, a~d lifestyle amenities
Allow citizens to balance work and leisure
Provide a w,ide diversity of career opportunities
. . Radiate d sensi3 .of place' and authenticity
· 'Accommodate active lifestyles ...
';.. . .':'."
Have dccessible arts; shopping; .Clnd entertainment
· Care ~bout the quality of natural resources
F.ost~r d diverse~nd pro,~ressive population
. Support creativityqnd innovCltion
. . . . . , ..
It is proven that communities whose emphasis.
is on quality of place generate substantially
greater job growth) business investment) and tax generation aver the lang-term horizon. Talented people
and businesses are naturally drawn to these communities. These places buzz with energ}j have thriving local
businesses) and inspire their residents and visitors alike. Concentrating on quality .of place is among the best
approaches to economic development) though it comes with a caveat. Cities adopting this approach must
also be patient. It sometimes takes decades before the full return is realized.
HOW THIS PROJECT IS DIFFERENT
A traditional economic development strategy contains the following components: economic analysis)
public input) target industry identification) SWOT analysis) and an action plan that covers community
development) marketing/and implementation.
The approach we recommend for La Po.1ile goes beyond a traditional development strategy. The
Strategic Plan we envision for La Porte will contain an economic development strategy plus three
additional sections:
(1) Recommendations for adapting the City's Master Plan to account for future economic conditions
(2) Recommendations for updating the City's development policies to create an even more liveable city
(3) Recommendations for enhancing the City's Main Street Business District to generate an energetic
downtown environment
We have customized our team based on the unique needs of this project to include the nation's top experts
on issue~ that matter most to the City.
3
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
valanche
PROJECT UNDERSTANDING, continued
Avalanche Co~sulting, Inc. will serve as your project leader and has a wealth of national
and international strategic planning and community marketing experience. Avalanche knows the
Houston region well. Within the region, the firm has developed strategies and studies for the:
Greater Houston Partnership, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, Downtown Houston
Management District, CenterPoint Energy; City ofBaytown, Fort Bend County, Sugar Land,
Missouri City, and numerous studies for the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region.
TXP is a national expert in solving complex economic and public policy problems. TXP is
heavily involved in place-making strategies, particularly projects focused on talent
recruitment, arts, and culture. Clients include the cities of San Francisco, Charleston, New
Orleans, and numerous Texas towns to name a few:
Gateway Planning is a community planning firm that melds the discipJines of town planning,
urban design, architecture, economic development and public-private partnerships to elevate quality .
of life in its client communities. Gateway has crafted plans and policies for some of the nation's
progressive cities, including McKinney, Charlotte, and Austin.
WHYIDRE US?
/ /
The Strategic Plan we will develop for the City of La Porte will be original, targeted, and based on national
best practices. Our team's experience and approach is unique and well-suited for La Porte:
. We know the Houston port region: Wehave managed strategic plans and consulted numerous
" communities in the Greater Houston area. We understand local and regional economic trends, the
petrochemical industry, and quality of life issues affecting communities in the Houston port region.
. We are skilled economic development strategists: Our individual team members each have 15+ years
of experience specifically managing and )Vriting economic development strategies for communities across
the u.s. We will not use junior staff people to manage or write La Porte's strategy. .
. We are urban design and policy experts: We have developed master plans for downtowns, urban cores,
neighborhoods, universities and fast-growing suburban growth corridors. We bring those master plans
to life with form-based urban codes and CC&Rs that both elevate quality of life and, at the same time,
harness the market's ability to deliver profitable and sustainable communities.
. We're nice folks: The strategic planning process requires a client and a consultant to spend a lot of time
together. It may sound silly to say, but there's no ego standing between us and our clients. You can trust us
to work in an upbeat, respectful, and collaborative manner with your local residents and businesses.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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,f
valanche
STUDY APPROACH
Avalanche Consulting's economic development planning model is a dynamic process that incorporates
information and inputs from a variety of sources. There are no preconceived ideas or predefined answers.
Avalanche uses a series of key questions to guide the overall process:
How is La Porte's economic and demographic position unique?
What are the key drivers of the local and regional economies?
What vision do local officials, businesses, and residents have for economic development?
What is La Porte's ideal development mix and who are the City's target audiences?
What community and policy changes will make La Porte a better place for its audiences?
How can La Porte's historic downtown become a vibrant community core?
What specific steps should La Porte take to build target audience presence in the City?
How much should the City budget for economic development in the next five years?
How can the City track and measure its progress?
The strategy that we create for La Porte will ~ddress the questions above and offer recommendations for
addressing the community's development challenges. The planning process will consist of a project set-up
phase and five steps.
PRO jEeT SET UP
At the start of the project, Avalanche will establish the systems needed to efficiently manage and maintain
momentum throughout the project. In our extensive strategic plamiing experience, we have found that
efficient project management and open communication greatly contributes to a project's success.
Avalanche's proven account management system involves a mix of in-person meetings, conference calls, and
Web applications to efficiently facilitate communication. Our proven system allows us to keep projects on
track, on time, and on budget.
)'
To begin, we will work with'the City and the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region (EAHPR) to
identify the types of individuals and organizations that should comprise a 10-15 member Project Steering
Committee. The Steering Committee will serve as Avalanche's sounding board, meeting with our team
during visits to the region, reviewing Avalanche's deliverables, and sharing ideas. Avalanche will provide
the City and EAHPR with a Steering Committee invitation letter that can be e-mailed to prospective.
participants. The letter will specify the responsibilities of the. Steering Committee and its members.
We also ask the City to assign one staff member to be its internal project manager and our team's primary
point of contact. Avalanche's president, Amy Holloway, will serve as the project manager and point person
througho:ut the entire project.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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STU DY APPROACH, continued
Next) we will work with ,the City to establish a project milestones calendar. The calendar will specify .
the dates of all trips and meetings) delivery of findings, and delivery of draft and final reports.
We will establish a system and schedule for communicating on a regular basis. We will set up a project
management web site utilizing the online application Basecamp (www:basecamphq.com). The
Basecamp service offers password protected access to participants) such as Steering Committee
members. It supplies a live chat board function) message posting) and storage for online file sharing. It
will allow Avalanche to communicate with the City, EAHPR, and Steering Committee between visits to
the region.
We will schedule bi-monthly conference calls with the City's project manager and other key players.
During the calls) we will provide updates, discuss upcoming action items) and answer questions. In
addition) we will provide the City with written status reports on a monthly basis.
During the project) we will utilize an online survey tool, such as QuestionPro) to develop and distribute
the community questionnaire. Electronic surveys are much faster to administer and offer on-the-spot
analysis) which makes the process of public input significantly easier.
STEP 1. CONDUCT SITUATIONAL ASSESSMENT
Step 1.1: Information Review
Avalanche Consulting will request that the City of La Porte provide us with copies of previous strategic
plans and studies) including the City's Master Plan. We will review these studies as well as marketing
materials and web sites related to economic and community development in the city. The City will receive
a Data Request that outlirles the information that will be helpful in our process) such as:
Copies of past economic developmen~ planning) and marketing strategie~
The City's Master Plan
Planning and zoning policies
Historic district programs
Main Street requirements
Information about Barbour's Cut and Bayport facilities as well as the new cruise terminal
Information about the general aviation airport
Information about the City's branding initiative and preliminary findings
pata on the city's economJj major employers) and industry trends
Copies of recent news articles related to development in the city
The City's economic development budget for the past 3 years
Alist of the City's major economic and community development activities
Helpful reports) studies) and strategies produced by other organizations in the region
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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STUDY APPROACH, continued
Step 1.2: EconomicAssessment
Combined with the public input we receive in Step 1.3) research conducted during this phase of the
project will influence La Porte's economic mix) SWOT Analysis) and the Strategic Plan.
1he economic assessment will present economic data for both the City of La Porte and the
Houston MSA. This snapshot will provide an insightful and necessary baseline against which future
economic development performance can be based. We will cover economic trends related to population)
workforce, education, industry composition, land use, infrastructure, public policyj and quality of life.
We will examine trends affecting the Houston MSA's economy, and reveal how those trends could affect
the southeast portion of the Gulf Coast and the city of La Porte.
In addition, we will ask the Steering Committee to help us identify three benchmark cities that are
included in this assessment. Benchmarking La Porte's economic performance against other communities
will further clarify the city's strengths and challenges.
Avalanche will utilize a variety of state and national databases to perform its assessment. We will deliver
whatever data is necessary and available to support recommendations in the Strategic Plan.
Step 1.3: Community Input
We don't believe in closed-doors and instead prefer to integrate the community as much as possible in
the planning process. The greater the level of community involvement, the more likely the Strategic Plan
is implemented and produces results. Avalanche's ability to facilitate positive community dialogue is
second to none.
Within a few weeks of the contract starting date, our team will travel to La Porte to lead the first Steering
Committee meeting and interview local stakeholders. Using an interview guide) Avalanche will seek
input from a variety of perspectives including individual business owners) public officials,. and other
local organizations concerned with economic development. In addition to the ~embers of the Steering
Committee) we anticipate interviewing and conducting small focus groups with IS..20 local stakeholders
during this initial trip, including representatives from:
City and County Government
La Porte City Council
La Porte fudependent School District
San Jacinto Community College
La Porte City Council
La Porte Economic Development Corporation
La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission
Li Porte Redevelopment Authority / Tax Increment Refinance Zone
La Porte Zoning Board of Adjustment
La Porte Main Street Advisory Boards
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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STUDY APPROACH, continued
La Porte - Bays~ore Chamber of Commerce
Private business leaders
La Porte retailers
La Porte real estate development firms
Interview and focus group topics will be customized for each audience. For example, interviews with
. LPISD and San Jacinto College will concentrate on workforce development. Interviews with Planning
and Zoning Commission members and local real estate developers will focus on the effectiveness of
current development policies.
After the initial round of interviews and focus groups, we will revisit specific individuals on an as-needed
basis to gather additional informatipn in their particular areas of expertise. Additional interviews may
occur during future trips to the region or via telephone.
We have a strong methodology for soliciting input and
assisting a client with collecting responses. The survey
will be made available in both print and electronic
format using QuestionPro software. Steerip.g Committee
members and the EAHPR will be given tools - including
flyers} a survey web site, and press releases - to proIl].ote the survey within the commlUlity. Two versions
of the survey will be made available - one for businesses and one fouesidents. The survey will be
live for 2-3 weeks. The meying process requires around 6 weeks to complete, beginning with survey
formation and promotion, implementation, and concluding with analysis and reporting of results.
Avalanche Consulting will extend our qualitative
assessment of La Porte by launching a public survey of
La Porte citizens and businesses. The questionnaire will
contain no Illore than 20 questions. Instead of using
a predefined set of questions} we will customize the
survey based on issues that arise during our first round
of interviews and focus groups, as well as the economic
and demographic assessment. We will ask the City
and Steering Committee to review the survey_prior .to
launching it.
,.i',' . ",', "', I". ,
.'Aval(J11che's Survey Success
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We will work closely with the EAHPR to schedule all community input activities.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE.. RFP- #08510
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STUDY APPROACH, continued
Step 1 Deliverables:
Summary of public input, including interviews, focus groups, and the community survey
Economic snapshot of the City, examining demographic trends, economic growth and major
employers
. Comparison of the City's performance and current economic conditions against Houston MSA and
state trends
The Economic Snapshot and summary of public input will comprise two chapters of the Economic
Development Strategic Plan.
STEP 2: DETERMINE ECONOMIC MIX
As stated in the RFP, one of the City's objectives for this project is to determine the best economic mix
for the City of La Porte. Most economic development strategies contain a list of ' target industries' -
specific business sectors on which to focus community improvement and marketing initiatives.
While the Strategic Plan we develop for La Porte could include target industries, they will be only one
portion of the City's total economic mix. The City has a broader view of economic development - one
that recognizes that quality of place, tourism, small business growth, and retail are just as significant to a
community's success as industrial recruitment. .
Avalanche's team members share La Porte's view of economic development. We emphasize community
development - downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, place-making, workforce development - as a
foundation for sustainable long-term economic growth. A higher quality city will ultimately generate
a more diverse tax base for the City; which will in turn afford future community improvements.
In this step of the project, we will examine all of La Porte's potential audiences and recommend the best
mix of opportunities for accomplishing thi City's goals. Based on the RFP, we understand that these
audiences may include industry and manufacturing, but could also include professional support
firms, retailers, tourists, entertainment venues; festivals, young professionals, entrepreneurs, real
estate devel()pers, and municipal airport users.
Among La Porte's largest opportunities is the business and tourism activity that will be sparked by
Barbour's Cut and the new cruise terminal. We will devote a special section to solely examine target
audiences related to these facilities.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEYELOPMENTSTRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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STU DY APPROACH, continued
Step 2 Deliverables:
Descnption of La Porte's ideal economic mi.x;, listing specific audiences
. Written profiles of La Porte's prime target audiences, their preferences, and La Porte's top selling
points for each
These elements will comprise one chapter of the Economic Development Strategic Plan
STEP 3: CONDUCT SWOT ANALYSIS
Target audience selection will take into consideration the City's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats. Strengths become the City's selling points and weaknesses the areas to improve upon
through community development activities. Opportunities reveal which audiences and strategic
advantages that the City may not be currently pursuing. Threats are external fotces that could impede the
City's economic development efforts and need to be protected against.
Performing this type of SWOT analysis is a standard component of any economic development
planning exercise. While these assessments do provide valuable information about past trends, they
are most useful when contrasted against the needs of the City's target audiences. The SWOT Analysis
and Economic Mix portions of this project go hand-in-hand, and we will work on the two steps
simultaneously. The SWOT will help us identify and eliminate potential target audiences. Once the
ideal economic mix is established, we will revisit the SWO'T1 fine tuning inn relation to the specific needs
of each audience. Target audiences and the SWOT will drive the recb.Itin1endatibhs contained in the
Strategic Plan.
Step 3 Deliverables:
Inventory of the City's current assets and challenges based on both qualitative and quantitative
research J'
· SWOT graphic and written des.cription of each strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat
The SWOT Analysis will be one chapter within the Economic Development Strategic Plan
STEP 4: WRITE ACTION PLAN
Avalanche will write an Action Plan that details the activities of the City of La Porte and other .
community leaders over the next five years. The Action Plan is the portion of the overall Economic
Development Strategic Plan that contains recommendations. It will include the following:
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVElOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORT!:. RFP #08510
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STUDY APPROACH, continued
Step 4.1 Community Development and Marketing Action Plan
The Strategic Plan will next contain recommendations aimed at moving the City forward through 2013.
Recommendations will be described in detail and given start dates along a 5-year calendar. The Action
Plan will contain the following components:
Vision and Mission - Avalanche will review the City's current economic development vision and
mission statement) and recommend revisions based on the input we receive during the project.
Goals - Together with the City and Steering Committee) Avalanche will recommend goals for
5-year campaign. The recommendations and action items contained in the Strategic Plan will tie
back to these goals.
Community Development Action Items - "Community development" refers to activities that
improve the City of La Porte's "product:' They make La Porte a better city in which to live and do
business. In general) improvements are needed to bridge the gap between target al,1dience needs
and the community's assets. 1his section of the Strategic Plan will enumerate the City's top local
development issues and specify the City's and other local organizations' roles in addressing those
needs. Action items may cover topics such as:
· Workforce and Education. Working with LPISD) San Jacinto College) and local employers)
we will identify issues in workforce development and offer recommendations for better aligning _/
programs with the needs of La Porte's target audiences.
Infrastructure. Infrastructure recommendations address changes to transportation)
telecommunicatioI}) physical land I buildings) and utility infrastructure needed to support La
Porte's target audiences. This section will include tactics related to the general aviation airport.
Business Climate. Business di~ite recommendations include adjustments to regulations)
development processes) business costs) taxes) incentives) and inducements for the purpose of
making La Porte a friendlier place for its target audiences to do business.
QJtality of Place. Quality of place recommendations relate to improvements in quality of life
assets (arts) culture) entertainment) recreation) urban design) that will make La Porte a better
environment for living and working.
Note: 1hree quality of place and business climate topics - the City's Master Plan) development
policies) and the Main Street Business District - will be pulled from this section of the Strategic Plan
and addressed in greater detail within their own separate sections (see Steps 4.2) 4.3) and 4.4).
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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STU DY APPROACH, continued
· Internal Marketing,Activities - "Internal marketing" refers to communications initiatives that the
City and other local organizations should undertake to improve overall collaboration among local
leaders. Successful economic development campaigns have a foundation of local support from business
executives} residents} educators} public officials, and even local media. This section of the Plan will
set forth a 5-year calendar of activities aimed at enhancing the ability of the community to work
together to promote economic development. It will also include tactics aimed at retaining and growing
local businesses.
External Marketing Activities - "External marketing" refers to all activities aimed at communicating
La Porte's value to target audiences located outside of the city. External marketing results in the
attraction and creation of jobs, which is a stated goal of the City of La Porte. This section of the
Strategic Plan provides tactics for attracting La Porte's desired target audience mix into the City.
We will recommend practical applications of La Porte's newbrand identity ill the marketing process. The
exact activities will depend on the City's goals} target audiences} strengths, weaknesses, staff and budget
resources.
Step 4.2: Master / Comprehensive Plan Review and Recommendations
We will conduct an in-depth review of the City's Master Plan and offer recommendations for adapting it to
changes in goals, target audience :rntK, and local and regional economic forces.
Step 4.3: Development Policies Review and Recommendations
We will review current City development policies and regulations. In this revieWj we will determine
how well they align with La Porte's desired economic: mix. We will recommend changes to policies and
regulations to foster an environment in which La Porte's target audiences will thrive.
We will examine existing zoning district regulations and policies affecting development and redevelopment
of the City. We will recommend revisions as necessary to support La Porte's target audience mix.
Finally; we will consider how historical preservation policies can be improved to further enhance quality of
life in La Porte. We will determine how City leaders and other local organizations can leverage participation
in regional heritage tourism programs and public art venues.
Step 4.4: Main Street Business District Action Plan
We will examine the possibility of redeveloping the Main Street District to include South Broadway from
Main Street along to its intersection with Fairmont Parkway. We will offer recommendations on whether this
extension should take place, and what steps need to be taken to do so. In addition, we will review the current
Main Street Program and provide tactics aimed at strengthening the program. We will gauge community
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #085] 0
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STU DY APPROACH, contineud
support for the Progr<1IIl: in the community survey (Step I)} and use this input to guide our advice.
The tenants of the Texas Main Street Program will be reviewed and incorporated as needed into the
recommendations in this section of the Strategic Plan.
While this section will contain recommendations for making directional decisions about the Main Street
Business District} it will not provide illustrative or architectural renderings of what the future Main Street
will look like.
Step 4.5: Implementation Guide
This final section of the Strategic Plan will gJ1ide the City and local organizations in implementing actions
described in Steps 4.1 - 4.4. It will include:
. Performance Metrics -The implementation guidelines will include a system for monitoring
progress over the 3-year campaign. Metrics will tie back to the goals that we set in the beginning
of the Plan - increased prospect activity, improvements to local infrastructure} or improved business
retention} for example.
. Task Assignments -The implementation guidelines will assign primary and secondary
responsibility for each action item to the City and other local organizations involved in economic
development.
. Resources and Funding -The implementation guidelines will conclude with a list of the resources
and budget needed to implement the 3-year campaign: We will examine potential for promotion
assistance through tax policies and economic develrpment incentives. We will recommend the
best tools for funding' development. This tool kit could include: property and sales tax incentives}
tax abatements and TIPs} Public hnprovement Districts} Freeport Exemptions} Foreign Trade Zones}
380 ~greements} Enterprise / Empowjrment Zones
In addition} this section will list which marketing tools will be required to effectively implement
the Strategic Plan and a budget for e~ch.
Step 4 Deliverables:
. A complete Action Plan containing: Community Development and Marketing Action Plan (4.1)}
Master Plan Review and Action Plan (4.2)} Development Policy Review and Action Plan (4.3) Main
Street District Action Plan (4.4)} and Implementation Guidelines (4.5).
. 'Ihe complete Economic Development Strategic Plan} which bundles the Action Plan with
deliverables completed in earlier steps of the project: Economic Assessment (1.2) J Economic
Mix Analysis (2.0)} SWOT Analysis (3.0)} and smmnary of public input (1.3).
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Avalanche customiz~s our project team based on the needs of
our clients. We serve as a client's single point of contact and
communication for every step of the process. Our partners} TXP and
Gateway Planning Group, are high quality, senior consultants in the
fields of community planning} economic analysis, strategic planning}
and public policy.
The project team we have assembled for the City of La Porte is highly
specialized in economic development} marketing} public policy, and
place making. We offer a powerful team of experts who promise
to provide the City with a level of personal attention difficult to
find in large companies. Our expertise spans beyond the services
of a traditional economic development consultancy. Our rich
experience in these areas means that the course of action we
recommend to the City of La Porte willaetually work - our tactics
are realistic, tested, and can be successfully implemented.
Avalanche, TXP, and Gateway Planning have a long history of
working together. Our most recent team project (2007) was to write
an Economic Development Strategy for Kerr County and the City of
Kerrville} Texas. Much of the strategy focused on the redevelopment
and revitalization ofKerrville's historic downtown. In addition to the
Strategy, the team introduced the clientto areal estate developer who
has now acquired the Kerrville's historic Shriner Hospital and plans to
restore the building as a mixed use residential complex.
Project Team:
Roles and Areas of Expertise
Amy Holloway
Project Management
Community Input
Marketing Communications
Strategic Planning
Jon Hockenyos
Economic Mix / Targeting
Development Policy
Strategy Development
Funding Sources
Travis James
Economic Analysis
Community Input
Economic Mix / Targeting
Strategy Development
Scott Polikov
Master Plan Review
Development Policy
Main street District
Strategy Development
Jayashree Narayana
Urban Design
Comprehensive Planning
Zoning
Code-Based Form Development
We guarantee that the City of La Porte will be working with highly
experienced professionals every step of the way. Each team member
we have assembled for this project has a minimum of 15 years of
experience in their fields. Our senior dam will be on-the-ground for
every trip, personally conducting all public input, analysis} reviews} and writing the Strategic Plan.
Avalanche Consulting will serve as the project's single point of contact, and its president, Amy
Holloway, will serve as the project manager. The table on this page lists the project team members
and the areas of expertise that they contribute to this project. Biographical information for each
person is provided on the following pages.
No personnel substitutions will occur without prior approval from the Business Council.
14
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT, continued
MANAGEMENT AND REPORTING
Details about Avalanche Consulting's project management process are provided in the "Project Set Up"
description on page 5. To review:
. We will utilize a mix of personal, telephone, and Internet systems for ensuring open
communication and efficient project management from beginning to end. Our system is tried and
true.
At the beginning of the project; we will establish a Project Steering Co-riunittee that is responsible
for providing input and reviewing deliverables. We will meet with the Steering Committee during
each of our trips to La Porte.
We will ask the City to assign a staff member or associate to serve as our primary point of contact
throughout the project.
A project milestones calendar will be developed at the beginning of the project to establish travel
dates, draft, and final report deadlines.
We will schedule bi-monthly conference calls with City / project leaders in which we provide
project updates, discuss upcoming action items, and answer questions.
We will provide the City with written progress reports on a monthly basis.
We will establish a project mamigementwebsite utilizing Basecamp software. Each project team
member will be provided with a user name and password to the website. The Basecamp service
. offers password protected access to participants, such as Steering Committee members. It supplies a
live chat board function, message posting, and storage for online file sharing. .
. We will present draft reports to the City and Steering Committee, and allow up to two rounds of
revisions, prior to finalizing each report.
QUALIFICATIONS OF SENIOR CONSULTANTS
Amy Holloway, President, Avalanche Consulting
Roles: Client Point of Contact, Team Manager, Public Input, Strategy Development
amy@avalancheconsulting.net
Amy Holl~way is the President and CEO of Avalanche Consulting, a strategic planning firm
headquartered in Austin, Texas. She founded the :firm in 2005. The firm's clients have included the
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
15
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT, continued
Greater Houston Partn~rship, Team Texas, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, Southeast
Coahuila, and the Metro Orlando ED C to name a few.
Ms. Holloway has nearly 15 years of experience in economic development planning and marketing.
During her consulting career, she has led focus groups and interviews with thousands of people.
From 1996-2005, Ms. Holloway served as Senior Project Manager and then Vice President of
AngelouEconomics. While there, Hollowaywrote dozens of economic development and marketing
strategies, including plans for: Charleston; Santa Fe; Metro Orlando; BaytoWll; Greater Binghamton;
Northwest North Carolina; Cleveland; the State of Texas; and the Texas Workforce Commission..
Between 2000 and 2002, she managed AngelouEconomics' European office in Germany, where her
clients included the promotion agencies of the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Carinthia, Austria.
Before joining AngelouEconomics, Ms. Hollowaywas an economist for Nobel.Prize nominated Dr. M.
Ray Perryman at The Perryman Group. In 2005, she was a business development manager for industrial
design-build firm Gray Construction.
Ms. Holloway resides in Austin, Texas, where she serves on the boards of the Austin State Hospital and
Catalyst 8 / The Long Center for the Performing Arts. She is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Austin's
Emerge program. Her B.B.A. and M.S. degrees in economics are from Baylor University.
Jon Hockenyos, Managing Director, TXP
Roles: Policy Revievv, Strategy Development] Funding Advice
jon@txp.com
Jon Hockenyos has had a life-long interest in economics and public policy. Following stints as an aide to
a member of the British Parliament and work on a Senatorial campaign in his home state oflllinois, Mr.
Hockenyos founded TXP while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at
Austin in 1987. Since then, TXP has successfully completed hundreds of projects for a wide variety of
clients, with a strong record of on-time, on-budget delivery.
Along with serving as Managing Director of the firm, Mr. Hockenyos makes numerous public
presentations and speeches, has served as a resource witness on a variety of issues for a large number of
city councils, state legislatures, and the U.S. Congress, and is widely quoted by both print and electronic
media.
Mr. Hockenyos received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University oflllinoisand Masters of
Public Affairs from the LBJ School of Public Affairs, where he has taught as an Adjunct Professor. He also
served on the interim Board of Directors for Capital Metro (the Austin area transit authority), and is the
current President of the Board of Directors of Hyde Park Theatre in Austin.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT, continued
Travis James) Economj.st) Director, TXP
Roles: Economic Assessment) Economic Mix and Audience Selection) Strategy Development
travisjames@txp.com
Travis James has worked with TXP sinc~ 2001. Currentl}'j Mr. James leads the firm's efforts in economic
impact and cost-benefit analysis) community development planning, and special projects. While at TXP)
Mr. James has conducted dozens of economic and fiscal impact studies. As part of this work, Mr. James
has assessed the economic and fiscal impact of a number of high profile companies including BASF)
ConocoPhillips) Dow Chemical, Home Depot, Texas Instruments, and Toyota Motor Corporation. Mr.
James also has experience analyzing tourism-related projects in California, Connecticut, Florida) and
Texas.
Prior to joining TXE Mr. James worked at ExxonMobil in the global informati(;m systems technology
division in Washington, D.C. His duties required lengthy international travel to South America, Europe,
and Asia in order to develop and support large-scale global systems solutions. Mr. James also spent five
years as a project manager at AngelouEconomics) where he worked on numerous economic development
studies in Arlington, Texasj Orlando, Floridaj Jefferson Parish (New Orleans), Louisianaj and EI Paso,
Texas.
Mr. James holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin. He also
received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Texas State University. MrJames has attended
economic impact modeling training sessions conducted by u.s. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Mr. James
received an M.B.A. degree from St. Edward's University in 2007.
Scott Polikov, Principal, Gateway Planning Group
Roles: Master Plan RevieW; Policy Review; Main Street Tactics, Strategy Development
scott@gatewayplanning.com
)'
Mr. Polikov provides town-planning services to both public and private sector clients, working with
communities, local governments, state agencies, universities and developers to facilitate growth in rnixed-
use pedestrian-friendly patterns. Through his firm) Gateway Planning) he has developed master plans for
downtowns) urban cores) neighborhoods, universities and fast-growing suburban growth corridors. He
brings, those master plans to life With form-based urban codes that both elevate quality of life and) at the
same time, harness the market's ability to deliver profitable and sustainable neighborhoods.
Mr. Polikov has served on the respective governing boards of Austin's regional transit authorit}'j Capital
Metro, and the region's metro,politan planning organization) "CAMPO," as well as continuing his long-
standing work on regionalism and rail transit with the Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council. Nationally,
he is active in the Congress for the New Urbanism and serves as an associate member of the Citistates
Group) founded by Neal Peirce. Internationally, he serves on the advisory board for the Prague Institute
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT, continued
for Global Urban Dev~lopment. His firm's work has received multiple awards} including the North
Central Texas Council of Government's Excellence in Development Award for Sustainable. Design and
the national Form-Based Codes Institute Inaugural Driehaus Award for Best Form-Based Code} and has
been featured in Urban Land} the magazine of the American Planning Association} and Planning} the
magazine of the American Planning Association.
Mr. Polikov received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas} a Juris Doctor
from the University of Texas School of Law; and a Master of Science in Community and Regional
Planning from the University of Texas School of Architecture.
Jayashree Narayana, Project Manager, Gateway Planning Group
Roles: Urban Design} Comprehensive Planning} Zoning and Form-Based Code Development
jay@gatewayplanning.com
Ms. Narayana joined the Gateway Planning team in the fall of2007 to provide planning and urban design
support to the town planning work undertaken by the firm. Her current work at Gateway Planning
includes preparing physical master plans and developing new market-based form-based and mixed use
zoning districts for Downtowns} Greenfield) and infill sites.
Prior to joining the Gateway Planning team, Ms. Narayana worked at various local governments in the
States of Texas, Kentucky, and North Carolina. During her 6 years of employment with the City of
Southlake) Texas, she was instrumental in the creation of the. Downtown Zoning District regulations and
associated design guidelines to facilitate the development ofSouthlake Town Square as the community's
downtown with a mix of retail) office} entertainment, and residential uses. In addition} she was the lead
planner working on Southlake 2025 Plan, the city's 2005 comprehensive plan update and associated
ordinance amendments ii1cluding creation of new mixed-use and conservation subdivision zoning
districts to implement the Plan. Many of the projects led by Ms. Narayana have been recipients of State
and Local planning awards including Texas AP A Current Planning and Comprehe.nsivctPlanning Awards
and Midwest Texas APA awards. '
Prior to moving to Texas, Ms. Narayana was employed by the Louisville Development Authority
(LDA)} City of Louisville, Kentucky. At LDA, Ms. Narayana worked on various projects involving
neighborhood) corridor, and doWntown planning including urban design and zoning recommendations
including the creation of the city's first traditional neighborhood zoning district.
Ms. Narayana has a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture from the University of Ban galore, India, a
Master's Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Vuginia Tech, and a Master's Degree in Business
Administration from University of Texas at Arlington. Ms. Narayana is a member of the American
Planning Association (APA), American Institute of Certified Planners (AlCP)) and the Congress for
the New Urbanism ( CND). She currently serves as the President of the Midwest Section of the Texas
Chapter of AP A.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510 18
valanche
QUALIFICATIONS
This section provides a J:ristorical overview of the three firms that form the project team. For each firm}
we provide a written overview and a list of clients. The section begins with Avalanche Consulting} and is
followed by TXP and Gateway Planning Group in that order.
ABOUT AVALANCHE CONSULTING
Avalanche Consulting} Inc. is an economic development consulting:firm that was established in 2005.
We develop targeted economic development strategies for communities and plan and manage marketing
campaigns. Our products are tools rather than lengthy written reports} offered either a la carte or as a
complete package and tailored to the client's needs. The firm has a remarkable record of repeat business
and long-term relationships. We attribute this to our dedication to customer service and quality work.
Avalanche and its partners are experts in their fields helping economic develop~rs answer their most
pressing questions: What are my community's competitive advantages? Which audiences should
we target? What specifically should we do to attract them to our COID.1Ilunity? What's the right mix
of development to ensure that our residents and businesses are well-served in the long run? What
can we do to create a sense of place and provide a high quality of life for our residents? We not only
provide strategies that address these issues} but we also provide the tools needed to implement our
recommendations.
Avalanche's President and CEO} Amy Holloway, is a national expert on the topic of esonornic
development strategic planning. She hasl1early 15 years of experience managiIlK ec()noII1is deyeloprne;nt
, planning processes and ~Writing strategic plans. Amy has worked with dozens of communities across the
U.S. and Europe) for both large and small) urban and rural communities. She has a friendly, approachable
personality that shines in projects that involve high levels of public participation.
Avalanche is located at:
1601 D West 6th Street
Austin) Texas 78703
(512) 47~1555 phone
(512) 233-2937 fax
www.avalancheconsulting.net
Avalanche's Clients
Since it was established in 200S} Avalanche Consulting) Inc. has provided strategic plallning and
marketing assistance for the following clients:
Bay Area Houston Partnership, 2005 - Aerospace industry sales strategy
, Brazos County Exposition Complex, 2008 - Marketing strategy and impact analysis
CenterPoint Energy, 2006 - Economic development workshops for Houston area communitiesi
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
19
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QUALIFICATIONS, continued
CenterPoint Energy} 2007 - Website planning seminar for the Economic Development Dept.
City of TayIor, Texas, 2007 - Annual Strategic Plan
City of Taylor, Texas, 2008 - Annual Strategic Plan
City of Taylor, Texas, 2007 - Economic Impact Assessment of East Williamson County Park
Development Advisors Inc., 2007-present - Marketing strategy and campaign management
forsftesekGtionconsuUancy
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, 2006 -Impact analysis of Project Stars
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, 2007 - Petrochemical industry quality of life survey
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region,2008 - Petrochemical industry hiring n,eeds survey and forecast
Greater Houston Partnership / Development Counsellors International, 2006 - Marketing
strategy and internal communications plan
Harris County, Texas, 2006 - RFP development for hiring an economic development strategy
Houston Downtown Management District, 2006 - Sales strategy
Kerr County / Kerrville Economic Development Foundation / TXP, 2007 - Marketing and
economic development strategy
Lubbock Economic Development Alliance / AngelouEconomics,2006 - Website copywriting
Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, 2006 - Web analytics
Research Valley Partnership, 2006-2007 - Website storyboard and copywriting
Southeast Coahuila, Mexico, 2007-2008 - Regional asset evaluation and marketing mission
organization, prospecting ./
Taylor Economic Development Corporation, 2006 - Website copywriting and trade show
exhibit
Taylor Marketing Team, 2007-2008 - Marketing workshops and campaign management
Team Texas, 2006-2007 - Marketing campaign management and event
Temple Economic Development Corporation, 2006-2007 - 5-year Marketing Strategy
Tri-Cities, Washington / AngelouEconomics, 2005 - Marketing Strategy
Upstate. South Carolina Alliance (Greenville-Spartanburg), 2008 - Marketing Review and Strategy
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC ~LAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
20
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QUALIFICATIONS, continued
As a consultant (:lnd executive with AngelouEconomics from 1996-200S) Amy Holloway served as lead
project manager and architect of economic development and marketing strategies for communities like:
Charleston, South Carolina Regional Development Alliance, 2004 - Comprehensive economic
development strategy
City of Baytown} Texas, 2004 - Comprehensive economic development strategy
City of Missouri City, Texas, 2003 - Site evaluation and targeted economic development plan
City of Santa Fe, New Mexico, 2004 - Comprehensive economic development strategy
City of Sugar Land, Texas, 2003 - Site evaluation and economic development plan
CzechInvest, 2002 - Site evaluation and semiconductor recruitment plan
Dell, Compaq, and Intel, 1997 - Business climate analysis of Texas and 13 other U.S. States.
Fort Bend Coun,ty, Texas, 2003-2004 - Site evaluation
Greater Binghamton, New York, 2002 - Comprehensive economic development strategy
Greater Cleveland Partnership, 2003 - Workforce development coordination strategy
ICEP, Portugal's Trade and Tourism Office, 2000-:2001 - Site evaluation and semiconductor
recruitment
Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, 1999 - Economic development strategy and
technology recruitment plan
Northwest Piedmont Council of Governments (North Carolina), 2003 - Comprehensive economic
development strategies for an 8-courlty region
State of Texas, Office of the Governor, 1998 - Economic development strategy
Texas Workforce Commission, 1998" 1999 - Marketing strategy
Technologieland Karnten (State of Carinthia, Austria), 1998 - 2000 - Semiconductor recruitment
plan and campaign management
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP#0851 0
21
'valanche
QUALIFICATIONS, continued
ABOUTTXP
TXP is an economic analysis and public policy consulting firm founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas. Since
then, TXP has grown into a team of professionals whose diverse backgrounds allow us to craft customized
solutions to client problems. Our clients have discovered that TXP is the firm to hire when there is not an
immediate, obvious, or simple solution to their economic or public policy challenge. Our reputation for
having the right people to analyze issues from a variety of perspectives has made TXP the firm to call first
for professionals in the public sector and business arenas. In addition to drawing on the expertise of our firm
members, we regularly partner with urban planning, engineering, and public policy firms - as well as Ph.D.s
in varying disciplines - to put together teams uniquely suited to our clients' needs.
TXP has worked with a wide range of not -for-profits and private sector clients to provide illumination
through analytical support, always with a strategic view of the big picture. Me~bers ofTXP are involved in
the community and understand the I;.':hallenges faced by an increasingly complex world, as heightened media
attention and an ever more diverse set of stakeholders shine a brighter spotlight on public decision-making
and public policy.
TXP~ Clients
Over the past 20 years, various public and private sector organizations have retained TXP to analyze a wide
variety of economic and community development trends. A representative list of recent consulting projects
related to this proposal follows.
The Mayor's Taskforce on the Economy
City of Austin, Texas
TXP served as project conSultant to Austin's efforts to set economic development policy related to traditional
industry recruitment, small business development, and cultural vitality. TXP continues to advise the city on
economic development issues, especially those related to revenue forecasting and incentives policy.
The Connection between Economic Development and Planning
City of Charlotte, NC
TXP and associates are assisting the City of Charlotte with demonstrating and defining the relationship
between planning (including tranSportation, infrastructure, and land use policy) and the growth and
development of the local economy.
Value-Capture Impacts of Transit-Oriented Development
City of Leander, Texas
As part of a larger, multi-disciplinary team, TXP estimated the potential land use and tax base impacts
of developing approximately 2,000 acres in close proximity to potential new toll road and commuter rail
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE crTY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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QUALIFICATIONS, continued
capacity under two sct;narios: traditional suburban and mixed-use urban village that entails both greater
density and a larger amount of green space and civic use. In addition, TXP helped create an incentive
program to foster the development of the project.
Economic Development Strategic Planning Services
City of Grapevine, Texas
The Grapevine City Council hired TXP to identify and analyze the most important economic
development trends shaping the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Based on these findings, TXP worked with
Grapevine's City Council to create a series of public policy strategies and recommendations to guide the
city's economic and community development efforts.
The Role of the Cultural Sector in the Austin Economy
The City of Austin, Texas
There is a growing understanding of the connection between the arts.and the econom}'j although
there have been relatively few attempts to fully capture the connection between culture) creativit}'j and
economic activity. TXP addressed portions of this phenomenon in previous work, including measuring
the economic impact of music in 200 I, not-for-profit arts groups in 2003, film in 2004, and gaming/
digital media earlier this year. TXP was retained by the City of Austin to more fully define the influence
of the cultural sector (defined to include music, film/visual media, not -for-profit arts) visual arts, and
tourism related to the arts) on the local economy, ~s well as further extend the analysis to better capture
the local connection between the arts and tourism.
City of Roanoke Downtown Plan (Oak Street Corridor)
City of Roanoke
Gateway Planning Group team (including TXP) was retained by the City of Roanoke in order to assist
the city in preserving Original Town Roanoke (downtown)) in the midst of accelerated growth along
SH 377. Phase I of the initiatjye entailed assessing the existing conditions, identifying the strengths of
the district specifically and 'the community generally. lhis assessment supported appropriate strategies
to address the challenges of allowing the downtown to continue to grow as a vibrant and sustainable
place of destination which) while attracting increased tourist and business activity to the area) would
also enhance and preserve the essence of Original Town. The initial phase also identified the economic
viability of the market for Original Town Roanoke. This analysis was critically important for the
successful implementation of the plan. Phase II of the project, inclu~ed the development and adoption of
a new regulating plan, a form-based zoning district, design guidelines and a streetscape plan.
A Cost/Benefit Model for San Antonio Economic Development Projects
City of San Antonio) Texas
TXP creat~d a model and analytical structure for the City of San Antonio to better measure the relative
merits of tax abatements and other economic development incentives that quantifies the total effect of
new development in terms of both costs and benefits. The model could be used to both understand total
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
23
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valanche
QUALIFICATIONS, continued
impacts and to help structure the range and scope of potential incentives to be offered.
A Strategic Economic Adjustment Plan for EI Paso
City ofEI Paso, Texas (federally-funded grant)
Under the auspices of an Economic Development Agency grant, TXP created a ten-year strategic plan
to cope with the impact of structural change in the region's economy. Major tasks included an analysis
of the economic, demographic, labor} and industrial base of the community and formal solicitation of
community and stakeholder input.
Economic Impact Studies for Texas School District Clients (2002-present)
Since 2002, TXP has conducted 24 economic impact studies for TeXas school district clients considering
granting tax abatements for manufacturing and R&D projects. The economic ~d fiscal impact studies
have analyzed a number of high profile companies including BASF, ConocoPhillips} ExxonMobil, Home
Depot, Samsung, Texas Instruments} and Toyota Moto'r Corporation. The findings support the view that
the TeXas Economic Development Act has had a significant economic impact and accomplished its goals.
These findings for the 24 projects are as follows:
$9.6 billion in new capital investment
Creation of 4,484 direct new jobs} with an annual payroll of $333.2 million
A total economic impact of $22.3 billion over the life of th~ projects
,A total of21}236 jobs (direct and indirect .employment) based on these investment levels
Downtown Redevelopment in McAllen, Texas
City of McAllen, Texas
As part of a larger planning 'effort, TXP was engaged to assist the City of McAllen, Texas with the
economic development aspects of downtown revitalization. Specifically, TXP was tasked with answering
the following questions: How does downtjlwn development relate to the city's broader economic
development agenda? Should economic development or traditional land use planning drive the
redevelopment effort? Do local governments have the necessary resources required for infrastructure
improvements? What types of business should be targeted for recruitment?
Economic Development Implications of Conimuter Rail in Central Texas
Austin-San Antonio Intermunidpal Commuter Rail District
Tasked with evaluating the economic development implications of implementing commuter rail between
Austin and San Antonio, TXP built a custom econometric model that determined whether or not this
region could support this type of transit system. Specifically, the Austin-San Antonio Corridor was
compared.to other u.s. regions to determine the likelihood that a rail project would have positive long-
term economic impacts on the region.
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN fOR THE CITY Of LA PORTE. RfP #08510
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QUALIFICATIONS, continued
Other TXP clients have included:
ACCION Texas
Annie E. Casey Foundation
Association of Electric Companies of Texas
Austin Fine Arts Alliance
Austin-San Antonio Rail District
Bexar Countyj Texas
. Black Hills Power and Light ( South Dakota)
City of Austin, Texas
City of Charlotte, North Carolina
City of Dallas, Texas
City ofEl Paso, Texas
City of Fort Worth} Texas
City of Grapevine} Texas
City of Leander} Texas
City of New Braunfe1s} Texas
City ofPflugerville, Texas
City of Piano, Texas
. ABOUT GATEWAY PLANNING GROUP
~
City of Roanoke, Texas
City of San Antonio} Texas
City ofUvalde} Texas
Dallas Area Rapid Transit
Dallas County Hospital District
Edwards Aquifer Authority
Frost Bank of San Antonio
McAllen} Texas Chamber of Commerce
Memphis Tomorrow (Memphis, Tennessee)
Mental Health Association in Texas
Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority
San Antonio Spurs
San Francisco Public Utilities Commission
SBC Company
Scott & White Hospital
SETON Healthcare Network
Star ofTctas Fair and Rodeo
State of Texas
Gateway Planning Group i; a firm that meshes the disciplines of town planning, design, architecture,
economic development, public-private finance and community facilitation, focusing first and foremost
on implementation. Accordingly, Gateway1>lanning pursues oilly those projects that are a mutual fit for
our collaborative and our clients.
Gateway Planning provides town-planning services to both public and private sector clients. The firm
works with communities, local governments, state agencies, universities and developers to facilitate
growth in mixed-use pedestrian-friendly patterns. Gatewayfocuses on the basics: a mix of housing types,
neighborhood retail, pocket parks, community schools, great civic spaces and transportation choice, as
well as streets designed for both cars and people.
Gateway Planning uses place-making as a core economic development strategy. 1he proper combination
of infrastructure, civic spaces, housing mix and pedestrian-friendly retail results in higher investment
returns and a robust tax base.
25
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
valanche
QUALIFICATIONS, continued
The firm has developed'master plans for downtowns, urban cores, neighborhoods, universities and fast-
growing suburban growth corridors. Gateway brings those master plans to life with form-based urban codes
and CC&Rs that both elevate quality oflife and, at the same time, harness the market's ability to deliver
profitable and sustainable neighborhoods.
Scott Polikov and our other principals believe that the key to implementation is integrating urban design
back into the planning and land development process,in addition to utilizing performance-based approaches
to unleash the genius of the market.
Gateway Planning's Sample Clients
Verano Development (South Side of San Antonio) - Master Plan, SmartCode Entitlement
McKinney, Texas - Downtown Plan, East Downtown Neighborhood Plan, Historic Downtown
Neighborhood Plan, Transportation Oriented Development (TaD } Plan, Regional Employment Center and
Craig Ranch Plan,
City of Charlotte, North Carolina - Charlotte / Mecklenburg Region and New Urban Development Task
Based Development
City of Leander, Texas - TOn I UDC Plan
. Texas State University - First Building Design, Round Rock campus
City of Austin, Texas - Tex;as "Big Box" Retail Study, Waller Creek Development Design,
Roanoke, Virginia - Downtown Plan and Codes
/
Lancaster, Texas - Mills Branch Plan and Code
San Marcos, Texas - Downtown Planning Charette
Burleson, Texas - TaD Plan and Code Ordinance
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP#08510
26
valanche
PROPOSED BUDGET AND TIMELlNE
The cost of the proposeq scope of services is $119,500 plus expenses.
Project Set-Up
Step 1: Background
Step 1.1: Review Prior Studies and Research
Step 1.2: EconomicAssessment
Step 1.3: Develop, Launch, Analyze Survey
Step 2: Economic Mix / Target Audiences
Step 3: SWOT Analysis
Step 4: Action Plan
Step 4.1 Community Development / Marketing Action Plan
Step 4.2: Master Plan Review and Recommendations
Step 4.3: Development Policy Review and Recommendations,
Step 4.4: Main Street Business District Action Plan
Step 4.5: Implementation Guide
TOTAL
$ 3,000
$ 4,500
$ 15,000
$ 10,000
$10,000
$ 6,500
$35,500 .
$ 9,000
$ 9,000
$12,500
$ 5.000
$119,500
Our pricing is based on a blended hourly rate of $125. Expenses may include: airfare, hotel
accommodations, and meals for the Consulting Team during its trips to La Porte, as well as printing and
production .costs. The cost of communication, survey, and other project management tools is included in
this . estimate, .as well as data collection through Avalanche aild its team members' existing subscriptions
to research sites.
The project is estimated to require 6 months to complete with a schedule as follows:
Month 1
Month 1
Months 1-3
Months 2-3
Month 3
Months 2-3
Month 3-4
Month 4
Month 4
Months 4-6
Month 5
Month 6
Month 6 or 7
Consulting engagement begins
P:c.oject Set Up and Trip 1 (Interviews, Focus Groups)
Economic Assessment
Community Survey
Trip 2 (Present Economic Assessment and survey results)
Review Development Policies and MasterPlan
Economic Mix / Target Audience
SWOT Analysis
Trip 3 (Deliver SWOT Analysis and Economic Mix)
Develop Economic Development Strategy
Trip 4 (Present preliminary recommendations)
Deliver Final Economic Development Strategy
Trip 5 (Present final Strategy)
27
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE cnYoF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
...
i:volonche
REFERENCES
Avalanche References
Dudley VanNess} Manager} National Sales
CenterPoint Energy
P.O. Box 1700} Rep-25
Houston} TX 77251
phone: (713) 207-3441
e-mail: dudley.vanness@centerpointenergy.com
Jonathan Scott} Marketing Director
Temple Economic Development Corporation
1 South 1st Street
Temple} TX 76501
phone: (254) 773-8332
e-mail: lpeterson@choosetemple.com
Frank Salvato} City Manager
City of Taylor} Texas
400 Porter Street 76574
Taylor} Texas
phone: (512) 352-5448
frank.salvato@d.taylor.tx.us
Jan Lawler} President / CEO
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region
908 West Main Street
LaPorte} Texas 77571
phone: (281) 867-1112
jlawler@allianceportregion.com
J'
TXP References
Marc Ott} City Manager
Sue Edwards} Director - Economic Growth &
Redevelopment Services
City of Austin - City Hall
301 West 2nd Street} Suite 2030
Austin} Texas 78701
phone: (512) 974-7820 (Sue Edwards)
e-mail: sue.edwards@ci.austin.tx.us
Nelson Wo~ CountyJudge
Bexar County
Bexar County Courthouse
100 Dolorosa} Suite 1.20
San Antonio} Texas 78205
phone: (210) 335-2626
e-mail: nwolff@>co.bexar.tx.us
Guy Overby, President
Kerr Economic Development Foundation
1700 Sidney Baker
Suite 200 #4
Kerrville} Texas 78028
phone: (830) 896-1157
e-mail: information@kerredf.org
28
PROPOSAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE. RFP #08510
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~(Q)~V
SEALED RFP #08510 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRA TEGIC PLAN
CITY OF LA PORTE
NOTICE TO OFFERORS
All sealed proposals shall be submitted including one (1) marked original and four (4) duplicate on the original
forms and clearly marked with RFP number and description. Proposals will be received at the Purchasing
Office, 2963 N. 23rd Street, La Porte, TX 77571 until 2:00 p.m. Tuesdav. Mav 27. 2008.
Proposals will be opened and names publicly read in the Public Works upstairs training room immediately after the
closing hour for the proposals on said date. An elevator is not available. Please contact Purchasing at 281-470-5126
if accommodations are needed.
NO LATE PROPOSALS WILL BE CONSIDERED
Forms furnished by the City of La Porte may be obtained without deposit from:
City of La Porte
Purchasing Division
2963 N 23rd Street
La Porte, TX 77571
(281) 470-5126
Proposals will be opened so as to avoid disclosure of contents to competing offerors and kept secret during the
process of negotiation. All proposals shall be open for public inspection after contract award. Trade secrets and
confidential or proprietary information, so noted in proposal, shall not be open for public inspection.
The City of La Porte hereby notifies all offerors that in regard to any agreement entered into pursuant to this
advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded equal opportunities to submit proposals in response to
this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, age, religion or national origin in
consideration for an award.
The City reserves the right to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive any and all technicalities and to accept any
proposal or part thereof, which in the opinion of the City Council, is most advantageous to the City. In case of
ambiguity or lack of clearness in stating the prices in the bid, the City reserves the right to consider the most
advantageous bid thereof or to reject the bid.
Published:
April 20. 2008
April 27. 2008
1
CITY OF LA PORTE PURCHASING OFFICE
2963 N. 23RD STREET
LA PORTE, TX 77571
To drop off proposals and/or attend opening, follow these directions:
);> From Spencer Hwy., turn North on N. 23rd Street
);> The Public Works facility is on the right, past the mini-storage buildings
);> Turn right into parking lot and drive through the entrance gate, turn left immediately and park in
the last aisle on the right.
);> The Purchasing Office is located on the southwest side of the parking area. Look for the
signage.
2
CITY OF LA PORTE
The foregoing prices shall include all labor, materials, equipment, removal, overhead, profit, freight,
insurance, etc., to cover the finished work specified in this proposal.
All items proposed and installed under this procurement must be new and unused and in undamaged
condition.
The City of La Porte is tax exempt and no taxes shall be included in the pricing of this proposal.
Respondent understands that the Owner reserves the right to reject any or all offers and to waive any
informalities in the proposal.
The respondent agrees that this proposal shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of ninety
(90) calendar days after the scheduled closing time for receiving proposals.
The undersigned affirms they are duly authorized to represent this firm, that this proposal has not been
prepared in collusion with any other firm, and that the contents contained herein have not been
communicated to any other firm prior to the official opening.
Respectfully submitted:
Texas Engineering Extension Service John
Business
301 Tarrow Drive
Address
College Station, TX
City, State, Zip Code
77840
Bill.May@teexm il.tamu.edu
E-mail
979-458-6838
Fax Number
979-458-6796
Office Phone
3
CITY OF LA PORTE
CERTIFICATION BY RESPONDENT
City of La Porte Ordinance #98-2217 prohibits any expenditure for goods or services by the City of La
Porte from any person, firm, or corporation owing any delinquent indebtedness to the City. The
undersigned respondent further certifies that it is in compliance with the requirements of said
ordinance. A copy of the ordinance may be obtained by contacting the City of La Porte Purchasing
Division at 281-470-5126.
If undersigned is not in compliance with Ordinance 98-2217, it hereby assigns to the City of La Porte,
the amount of its delinquent indebtedness to the City of La Porte, to be deducted by the City of La
Porte from the amounts due the undersigned.
Failure to remit this certification with the proposal or non-compliance with said ordinance shall be just
cause for rejection or disqualification of proposal.
_ The undersigned hereby certifies that it is in compliance with Ordinance 98-2217.
or
The undersigned assigns to the City of La Porte, the amount of its delinquent indebtedness, to
be deducted by the City of La Porte from the amounts due the undersigned.
(Initial one of the above)
Business Name:
Texas Engineering Extension Service
Address:
301 Tarrow Drive
College Station, TX
77840
Printed Name:
Authorized Signature:
4
CITY OF LA PORTE
GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
1. RECEIPT AND OPENING OF PROPOSALS
The City of La Porte, (hereinafter called the "Owner"), invites proposals on the form attached
hereto. Sealed proposals shall be submitted including one (1) marked original and three (3) duplicate
on the original forms and clearly marked with RFP number and description. Owner will receive
proposals at the Purchasing Office, 2963 N. 23fd Street, La Porte, TX 77571. Proposals will be
publicly opened immediately after the closing hour of said date. Vendor name only will be read
aloud so as to avoid disclosure of contents.
Any proposal received after the time and date specified shall not be considered.
The Owner may not consider any proposal not prepared and submitted in accordance with the
provisions hereof and may waive any informalities or reject any and all proposals. Any proposal
may be withdrawn prior to the scheduled time for the opening of proposals or authorized
postponement thereof.
2. PROPOSAL MODIFICATIONS
Any offeror may modify their proposal by written communication at any time prior to the
scheduled receipt of proposals, provided such communication is received by the Owner prior to
c10sina time. The communication should not reveal the proposal price, but should provide the
addition or subtraction or other modification so that the Owner will not know the final prices or
terms until the sealed proposal is opened.
Owner shall not provide interpretation of the meaning of the plans, specifications or other pre-
proposal documents to any responder orally. Such communication must be in writing.
Every re~uest for such interpretation should be in writing addressed to the Purchasing Manager,
2963 23f Street, La Porte, TX 77571 or e-mailed to purchasinq@laportetx.qov. All requests shall
be received at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled time for receipt of proposals. Any and all
such interpretations and any supplemental instructions, will be in the form of written addenda to
the specifications which, if issued, will be submitted to all prospective offerors not later than three
(3) working days prior to the scheduled time for receipt of proposals. Failure of any respondent to
receive any such addendum or interpretation shall not relieve offeror from any obligation of
submitted proposal. All addenda issued shall become part of the contract documents and must
be acknowledged as received on submitted document.
3. METHOD OF AWARD
Evaluation will be based on the criteria stated in the RFP. The best proposal submitted by a
responsible offeror will be negotiated with the City of La Porte. If proposal amounts exceed the
available funds to finance the contract, the Owner may reject all proposals or may award the
contract on a negotiated proposal with
5
General Terms & Conditions
Continued
Page 2 of 3
3. METHOD OF AWARD (continued)
deductible alternates applied in numerical order in which they are listed on the Form of
Proposal, as produces a net amount, which is within the available funds.
The City of La Porte reserves the right to waive any informalities or technical errors, that in its
judgment will best serve the interests of the City.
4. FUNDING OUT CLAUSE
The City of La Porte warrants that funds are available to pay for this contract until the end of its
current fiscal year and warrants funds will be requested to make payment in each
appropriation period from now until the end of the last renewable option year. However, if
funds are not made available after such request, then the City of La Porte may terminate this
agreement with thirty (30) days written notice.
5. QUALIFICATIONS OF OFFEROR
At the time of the opening of proposals, each offeror will be presumed to be thoroughly familiar
with the plans and contract documents (including all addenda). The failure or omission of any
offeror to examine any form, instrument, or document shall in no way relieve any offeror from any
obligation in respect of his proposal.
The Owner may make such investigations as he deems necessary to determine the ability of the
offeror to perform the work, and the offeror shall furnish to the Owner all such information and
data for this purpose as the Owner may request. The Owner reserves the right to reject any
proposal if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such offeror fails to satisfy the Owner
that such offeror is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the contract and to complete
the work contemplated therein. Conditional proposals will not be accepted.
6. CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Effective January 1, 2006, Chapter 176 of the Texas Local Government Code (House Bill 914)
requires that any person, who seeks to contract for the sale or purchase of property, goods or
services with a local government entity, shall file a completed conflict of interest questionnaire
with the City Secretary within 7 business days after initial contact. The Conflict of Interest
Questionnaire (Form CIQ) is available from the City of La Porte website at www.laportetx.Qov
or from the Texas Ethics Commission at www.ethics.state.us. Completed conflict of interest
forms may bemailedordeliveredtotheofficeofCitySecretary,604W. FairmontPkwy., La
Porte, TX 77571. Please consult your own legal advisor if you have questions regarding the
statute of this form.
6
General Terms & Conditions
Continued
Page 3 of 3
7. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
A. All prices to be F.O.B., Destination, City of La Porte, La Porte, TX 77571.
B. The City of La Porte is exempt from all taxes in the State of Texas, including sales tax. A
tax-exempt form will be provided upon request.
C. Use of brand names in specifications is descriptive and not restrictive, and any product
of equal quality will be considered, unless noted.
D. All exceptions to the specifications and/or brand names must be so stated on the
proposal.
E. It is requested that vendors electing not to offer a proposal, submit a "NO OFFER"
response in order to remain on the vendor list.
7
CITY OF LA PORTE
INDEMNITY HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Contractor, its successors, assigns and guarantors, shall pay,
defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of La Porte, its agents, representatives, officers,
directors, officials and employees from and against all allegations, demands, proceedings, suits,
actions, claims, including claims of patent or copyright infringement, damages, losses, expenses,
including but not limited to, attorney's fees, court costs, and the cost of appellate proceedings, and all
claim adjusting and handling expenses, related to, arising from or out of or resulting from any actions,
acts, errors, mistakes or omissions caused in whole or part by Contractor relating to work, services
and/or products provided in the performance of this Contract, including but not limited to, any
Subcontractor or anyone directly or indirectly employed by or working as an independent contractor
for Contractor or said Subcontractors or anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable and any
injury or damages claimed by any of Contractor's and Subcontractor's employees or independent
contractors.
The Contractor expressly understands and agrees that any insurance policies required by this
contract, or otherwise provided by the Contractor, shall in no way limit the responsibility to indemnify,
keep and save harmless and defend the City of La Porte, its Council members, officers, agents and
employees and herein provided.
Texas Engineering Extension Service
Contractor
May 23, 2008
Date
John W. May Jr.
Printed Name
8
CITY OF LA PORTE
SPECIFICA TIONS
RFP #08510 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN
Introduction
The City of La Porte is strategically located south of the Houston Ship Channel with its eastern
border on Galveston Bay. The city is at the end of a corridor defined by the Houston Ship Channel,
Battleground Industrial District, and the Bayport Industrial District. It is bounded on the west side by
the Cities of Deer Park and Pasadena. The City of La Porte has put together this request for proposal
to prepare an economic development plan to assist the city in determining the best economic mix for
the long-term and outlining a strategy for attracting that mix. The City understands that because of
our location between two Port of Houston terminals we could fill all remaining land areas with port
related business and be done. However, because we desire to diversify our tax base and to provide
our citizens with shopping and leisure activities, in the summer of 2006 we commissioned the Buxton
Community ID@ Study. It was determined that from this study we could work to develop a "Retail
Attraction Strategy". Additionally in 2005 the City was officially accepted into the Texas Main Street
Program and any proposed plan developed must review and incorporate the tenants of this Program.
I. OBJECTIVES
The overall objective will be to define an economic development strategy for the City of La Porte.
Specific objectives within this context that must be achieved are as follows:
1. Determine the best economic mix for the City of La Porte in the future; attracting, creating &
retaining jobs; improving workforce & education; and capturing emerging opportunities.
2. Develop a strategy to achieve the desired economic mix.
3. Determine the adequacy of the current development policies and regulations of the city.
4. Define the budget and organizational responsibilities for implementation of the strategy.
II. SCOPE OF WORK
While the study approach should be defined by the consultant, there are several factors that
must be covered in the scope of the project. These are:
9
1. Identify Stakeholders/Community Input - Input from both the public and private sectors of the
City of La Porte is required as part of the building blocks of the economic development plan. It
is anticipated that such input will be required from the public sector at the city, county, and
school district levels. Input from the City Council, Economic Development Corporation,
Planning and Zoning Commission, the Redevelopment Authority/Tax Increment Refinance
Zone, Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Main Street Advisory Boards along with the
Chamber of Commerce and LPISD, Citizen Input and the private sector business leaders from
industry, manufacturing, services and the retail sectors is required. During this phase, the
consultant will work closely with the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region (a regional
economic development non-profit entity) to ensure this input phase is streamlined and
effective.
2. Review of Master/Comprehensive Plan - the City of La Porte has a detailed
Master/Comprehensive Plan for the city that was based upon the growth potential for the area
when the Plan was developed. In view of the recent changes in the economic situation in the
Houston Metropolitan area, this data should be reviewed carefully to determine if the direction
of the future growth has changed significantly. If there has been a change, then an analysis of
the impact on the Master/Comprehensive Plan should be conducted.
3. Review of the Development Policies - A thorough review of all development policies and
regulations of the City of La Porte should be undertaken. The review should contrast La
Porte's policies with that of other cities that have been successful in attracting development.
Also, input from the Planning and Zoning Commission, developers, and businesses within La
Porte should be used to evaluate these policies and regulations.
4. Develop a strategy to enhance the City's Main Street Business District and
examine the potential for redevelopment of Main Street District to include possibly South
Broadway from Main Street along to its intersection with Fairmont Parkway.
The consultant shall review external forces, existing strengths and weaknesses and develop
objectives and implementation strategies with clearly defined budgetary and organizational
responsibilities needed to accomplish the objective.
10
The consultant should also review the current Main Street Program and provide
recommendations to strengthen and enhance current program and evaluate effectiveness and
community support.
The study should also:
a. Consider the historical preservation element setting out plans and programs for those
structures in the area having historical, architectural, scenic or similar significance.
Examine potential for participating in regional heritage tourism programs in the area as
well as public art venues.
b. Examine the potential for retail shopping, specialty shopping, restaurant and
entertainment opportunities. Examine the potential for festival shopping and promotion
of pedestrian traffic to the area.
c. Examine existing zoning district regulations and policies affecting
development/redevelopment of the area. Prepare recommendations for revisions where
necessary to provide regulations that are most suited to the targeted area.
d. Examine the potential of the general aviation airport.
e. Examine potential for attracting professional support services for operations at
Barbour's Cut and Bayport facilities as well as the New Cruise Terminal.
f. Examine potential funding sources, grant opportunities, in kind services, etc. How can &
should the city compete to attract & retain firms in the target areas? Examine the
potential for promoting assistance through Tax Policies and the preliminary economic
development incentives policy which can include:
Property and Sales Tax Incentives
- Tax Abatements and Tax Increment Financing
Public Improvement Districts
Freeport Exemptions
Foreign Trade Zones
380 Agreements
Enterprise/Empowerment Zones
11
5. Assessment of the regional Houston MSA economy - movement in regional Houston economy
in the last 5 years, the current situation and future drrection of the Houston economy should
be included as part of the overall effort. Also, an assessment as to how the changes in the
Houston economy are likely to affect the southeast portion of the Gulf Coast and the City of La
Porte and its plans should also be undertaken.
6. Identification of Alternative Strategies - The consultant should develop several alternative
strategies for achieving the type of economic development that is desired by the City of La
Porte. The positives and negatives of each strategy should be outlined carefully and a
recommended strategy provided by the consultant to the city.
III. CONTENTS OF THE PROPOSAL
The proposal should contain the following major sections.
1. Statement as to the objectives of the study that will demonstrate that the consultant
understands the needs of the City of La Porte in regards to this particular project.
2. Study Approach - This section should outline in detail the proposed approach to preparing the
economic development plan. Specific steps should be called out in detail along with a schedule
for each of the tasks and a proposed set of checkpoint meetings during the course of the
study.
3. Project Management - The senior people involved in the development of the plan should be
identified and their role spelled out by task. The qualifications of each of the senior consultants
should also be spelled out in this section and resumes for those people included in an
Appendix. Also, the consultant should define a proposed method for working with the city
management and reporting progress.
4. Qualifications - This section should contain a historical overview of the consulting firm
described and describe other similar projects that have been undertaken. It should also identify
any additional resources within the firm that are available should they be needed during the
course of the project.
12
a. Proposed Budgets - The proposed budget should be broken out by each major task
within the study approach. The cost should be further broken into professional fees and
expenses associated with each task.
b. References - The consultant should include at a minimum three (3) references for
similar type of work that has been undertaken within the last five (5) years. The name
and telephone number of each reference should be provided in proposal.
IV. EVALUATION CRITERIA
City staff will use the following criteria to evaluate the proposals and make a selection: ,
~ 35% Experience - Based on years of experience and number of studies of like kind
conducted for municipalities
~ 35% Qualifications - Studies conducted in areas similar to the City of La Porte, including, but
not limited to, size, number of citizens, coastal region, and close proximity to metroplex
the size of Houston; affiliation with professional organizations
~ 30% Fee - Cost of proposal
City staff will meet with the top rated responders. Any additional information requested shall be
considered as part of the proposal and evaluated as such. The City reserves the right to negotiate a
best and final offer with the selected vendor.
13
RFP# 08510 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN
PROPOSAL
TO: CITY OF LA PORTE
2963 N. 23RD STREET
LA PORTE, TX 77571
Texas Engineering Extension Service
FROM: COMPANY
ADDRESS 301 Tarrow Drive
CITY Colleqe Station
STATE/ZIP Texas 77840
PHONE 979-458-6796
Cost of services per attached specifications
$98,728.00
I, THE UNDERSIGNED OFFICIAL OF THE BELOW IDENTIFIED COMPANY, CERTIFY THAT I
HAVE EXAMINED ALL OF THE MATERIALS CONTAINED IN THIS RFP AND THAT I HAVE MET
ALL REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS, EXCEPT AS CLEARLY NOTED IN MY ATTACHED
DOCUMENTS. I FURTHER CERTIFY THAT ALL COSTS HAVE BEEN SHOWN AND I AGREE TO
BEAR THE BURDEN OF ANY AND ALL UNDISCLOSED COSTS.
Texas Engineering Extension Service
FIRM NAME
May 23, 2008
DATE
14
CITY OF LA PORTE
TARGET DATES:
SEALED RFP #08510
To Department for Review 04/17/08
Department Return 04/18/08
Send-Out RFPs 04/21/08
Advertising 04/20/08 & 04/27/08
Opening OS/27/08
Evaluation Period/Meetings OS/28/08 - 05/31/08
Agenda Deadline 06/02/08
Council & 48 Award 06/09/08
Award Notification 06/10/08
15
OFFEROR OBLIGATION
CHECK LIST
D Authorized Signature
~ Duplicate Copies
D Pre-Proposal Meeting Noted, if Applicable
D Bonds, Cashier's Checks Enclosed, if Applicable
D Amendment Acknowledged and Enclosed, if Applicable
D Returned in Marked, Sealed Envelope by Due Date
Failure to meet these obligations may cause your
proposal to be considered non-responsive
16
CITY OF LA PORTE
STATEMENT OF "NO OFFER"
RFP # 08510
In order to assist the Purchasing Division of The City of La Porte in evaluating and improving our
solicitation process, we are asking that you complete this form and return by mail or fax. By submitting
this form, you will assist us in evaluating all response, improve our .bid solicitation process, and to
maintain a positive relationship with you. Failure to respond may result in removal of your firm from our
current vendor file.
Please return to:
The City of La Porte
2963 N. 23rd Street
La Porte, TX 77571
Fax: 281-470-5127
pu rchasinQ(CQlaportetx.Qov
We, the undersigned have declined to bid for the following reason:
Specification too "tight," or geared toward one brand or manufacturer only (explain below)
We do not offer this type of product or service
Unable to meet specifications (explain below)
Opening date does not allow sufficient time to complete
Unable to meet Bond requirements
Other (explain below)
Please remove us from your Vendor list
REMARKS:
Company Name:
Address:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Signature:
E-mail:
17
TRAIN. SERVE' RESPOND
PROPOSAL TO CITY OF LA PORTE -
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN
RFP #08510
May 27, 2008
PREPARED FOR:
Purchasing Office - City of La Porte
2963 N 23rd Street
La Porte, TX 77571
Contact:
Purchasing Division
POINT OF CONTACT:
Chad Burke, Project Manager
Chad.Burke@teexmail.tamu.edu
(979)862-2784
CoNTENTS
-....;...-----~-----------~----.__.,._--_._._-~-"---------'_.~'---'''-----_._,-~~~._.._-_._--'----_._-_.__._-----
'-'.4'""","_"'~"*,,,""""_"""_"""""'''''''''~''''~~~-''~'''''''''''''''--~-=-~-'''''
PRoPOSAL
1
STUDY OBJECTIVES ............................... .......... .................................................................................................. ........ 1
Design an Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of La Porte. ....___................................................. 1
SCOPE OF WORK................... ........... ....... ........... .............; .... ......... ............. ........ .... ..... .................... .... ... .... .................. 1
Identify Stakeholders I Community Input ............................................................................................................ I
Review Master I Comprehensive Plan................................................................................................... ............... 2
Review Development Policies.............................. ....... .................................. ................................ ....................... 2
Strategy to Enhance Main Street Business District ..............................................................................................2
STUDY APPROACH I METHODOLOGy.................. ....... ....... ..... .......... .......... ..... ..... ..... ................ ....... ............... ........... 2
Literature Review.......... ... ............ .......... .................... ................ ................................ ....................... ............ ....... 2
Facilities Planning W orkshop(s ).. ....... ........ ..... ..... ....... ...................... ....... ...... ... .............. ................ ...... ............... 2
Asset Inventory ............ .......... ............ ........... ........................................ ............................... ................... .............. 3
Funding Opportunities.. .... ...... ..... ......... ...... ...... ......... ... .... ...... ............... .......... ............ ............. ................... ...... ... 3
PROJECT MANAGEMENT..... ................. ...... .... ........... ..... .... ................ .... ....... ........... .................... ...... .......... ..... ...... .,. 3
QUALIFICATIONS ........................................................ ................... ....,............... ..... ..................................... ........... ...4
SiIIlilar Projects .... ...... ...... ............00............................... ..... .................. ........... .................... ... ... ..... .......... ............ 5
PROPOSED BUDGET . .... .................... ... .... ........ .......... ................ ........................................ ......... .............................. .. 7
REFERENCES ........ ... .... .., ....... .... ..... .... ..... ...... ........ ....... .................. ........... ................. ... .... ....... .......... ..... ..... ..... ......... 8
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE I. PROPOSED BUDGET BY TASK...................................................................................00.....................................7
TABLE 2. PROJECT TIMELINE ..... .... ......... ...... .......... ................ ....... .............. ...... ............ ........ ...................... ....... ........... 8
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
PROPOSAL
'"'" - "'. ,.~
--_._-_._---_.__.~_._---------~-~-------------_.__._-~---_._---.-~
The Technology and Economic Development Division (TEDD) of the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX)
is pleased to submit the fonowing proposal to the City of La Porte to develop the Economic Development Strategic
Plan for the City. In response to RFP # 08510, TEDD proposes an 8-month project to accomplish the stated
objectives of the City to attract retail businesses that provide the best economic mix for the long-term and to develop
a strategy for attracting that mix while at the same time incorporating the tenants of the Texas Main Street Program.
STUDY OBJECTIVES
Design an Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of La Porte.
Within the overall objective to design an economic development strategy for the city, TEEX will work with the City
to achieve specific objectives within this context. They include the following:
1. Determine the best economic mix for the City by attracting, creating and retaining jobs; by improving
workforce and education; and by capturing emerging opportunities.
2. Develop a strategy to achieve the desired economic mix.
3. Determine the adequacy of current development policies and regulations of the City.
4. Define the budget and organizational responsibilities for implementation of the strategy.
The study objectives will fully inform the work that TEEX will undertake in the City of La Porte to design the
strategic economic development plan for the City. The Scope of Work descnoed below will result in a robust
strategic plan fot economic development that will achieve the collective desires of citizens, leaders, and others in the
City.
SCOPE OF WORK
An integrated strategic plan depends on the understanding of citizens and leaders of the community that cooperation
and collaboration are essential attnoutes ofa successful implementation of the strategy. It is necessary for everyone
to "be on the same page" as the community moves toward achieving a mutually beneficial future. Therefore, one of
the first items is to identify stakeholders who can provide input to the strategic plan.
Identify Stakeholders / Community Input
Stakeholders in a community represent a broad base of knowledge and wisdom from throughout the community.
TEEX will facilitate a series of workshops designed to express the vision of the community stakeholders for their
community. Governmental and quasi-governmental entities are important constituents of the community and
include (but are not limited to) the following: County Judge; County Commissioners; Economic Development
Corporation; City Council; Planning and Zoning Commission; the Redevelopment Authorityrrax Increment
Refinance Zone; Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Main Street Advisory Boards; Chamber of Commerce and La
Porte ISD. TEEX will seek input from the City of La Porte to assure that other representative constituencies (e.g.,
citizens, private sector business leaders) from throughout the community are brought into the strategic planning
process as needed, thereby allowing tbe voices of those stakeholders to be heard. TEEX will also include the
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region during the process.
The emphasis of this effort is to bring together a group of informed stakeholders who can provide a vision for the
future of La Porte's economic development efforts. The quality oftheir input is important, not necessarily the
number of people at the table.
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
1
Review Master / Comprehensive Plan
The Master I Comprehensive Plan for the City of La Porte has been posted on the City of La Porte web site;
although the document is undated, it includes data from the previous census. Thus, it is reasonable to expect there
have been economic changes that should be addressed; an analysis of the impact on the Master/Comprehensive Plan
will be conducted and recommendations will be made to help maintain currency of the plan for the City of La Porte.
Review Development Policies
TEEX will undertake a review of development policies and regulations of the City of La Porte. Development
policies and regulations of the City will be compared and contrasted to those of other cities that have been successful
in attJacting development and that are similar to the City of La Porte. This benchmarking process will enable the
City to evaluate their planning and zoning policies.
Strategy to Enhance Main Street Business District
An important stakeholder in La Porte is the Main Street Business District Designated as a Texas Main Street
Program in 2005, this historic district is home to numerous activities throughout the year, including Christmas on .
Main Street; Porte of Call- Music & Art; Downtown Sylvan Beach - Center for the Arts; and Fall Back Fest, a
celebration of the rich 1920s history of La Porte. The proposed project to design an economic development strategic
plan will heed the Eight Principles of Main Street as a means to enhance the City's Main Street Business District;
we also will examine redevelopment potential and opportunities ofthe area and will include South Broadway from
Main Street to its intersection with Fairmont Parkway.
STUDY ApPROACH / METHODOLOGY
TEEX will use a modified SWOT (StrengthlWeaknesslOpportunitieslTbreats) analysis to assess where the
community is currently situated in its economic development environment TEEX will employ a multi-phase
approach to achieve the desired result of an integrated strategic plan for the City's economic development.
The COJ1lIDunity development workshop is designed to document the COJ1lIDunity's perceived strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats to prosperity. Through the workshop, we capture dreams, aspirations, fears, and concerns
of community representatives, using the voice of residents and leaders alike to describe a vision for community
development and economic prosperity. During the workshop, we facilitate community representatives' identification
and prioritization of projects, functions and tasks that must be completed to realize the vision.
The Community Development Workshop is an ideal tool for creating consensus among entities with divergent views
and values and establishing a direction for economic development activities. Participants are educated abo1l1 relevant
trends in community and economic development, and are guided through the process of identifYing and prioritizing
strategies and projects that will maximize opportunities for development success. The workshop provides a venue
for voicing of issues and aspirations and empowers the community to establish their own vision for and definition of
prosperity. Following the workshop, the community will receive a report with a recommended community
development strategy including a prioritized ranking of projects to be performed and estimated budget. The
Community Development Workshop and resulting report are generally completed within 45 to 60 days.
Following is an outline of proposed project activities:
Literature Review
. Review existing City economic development reports/documents
. Research cmrent industry literatme
. Identify emerging markets and industry trends
. Benchmark City of La Porte with similar communities; focus on successful business attraction initiatives
Facilities Planning Workshop(s)
. Identify potential workshop participants
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
2
. Workshop preparation and logistics
. Workshop presentation development
. Conduct workshop(s)
. Process and document feedback
Asset Inventory
. Examine historical preservation opportunities for structures having historical, architectural, scenic or other
significance. Identity potential for participating in regional heritage tourism programs as well as public art
opportunities.
. Consider potential for retail shopping, specialty shopping, restaurant and entertainment opportunities as
well as potential for festival shopping and promotion of pedestrian traffic in the area.
. Examine existing zoning district regulations and policies affecting development and redevelopment.
. Examine the potential of the general aviation airport.
. Examine potential for attracting professional support services for operations at Barbour's Cut and Bayport
facilities as well as the New Cruise Terminal.
Funding Opportunities
. Identify potential funding sources, including grant opportunities, in-kind services, etc. that will help the
City of La Porte compete to attract and retain firms in target areas of the City. The following are examples
of possible sources: Property/Sales Tax Incentives; Tax AbatementslTIF/ Public Improvement Districts/
Freeport Exemptions; Foreign Trade Zones; 380 Agreements; EnterpriselEmpowerment Zones, etc.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Chad Burke - Project Manager
Chad bas a B.S. in Economics from Texas A&M University. Thirteen years experience in project management,
economic analysis, risk management and business development. PreviQUs to TEEX was employed with a private
riSk management consulting firm, and prior to that with a Fortune 500 energy firm. Experience includes feasibility
study research projects, economic analysis, and project management He has prepared and delivered presentations
on multiple reports. He also has extensive experience in technical report editing and document control.
Joan (Tatge) Quintana - Program Manager
Joan Quintana manages the Economic Development Program within TEEX's Technology and Economic
Development Division. In this capacity, she provides technical assistance to c<m1J))unities and economic
development entities throughout Texas. Her areas of expertise include community development planning, marketing
and business development, branding, technology commercialization and small business development and project
management. Before joining rEEK, Joan was a principal with AdventGX CorporatioIl, a tourism and economic
development consulting firm serving small communities throughout Texas and Mexico. She has managed large
federal research programs, including the US Army Medical Research and Materiel Command's Disaster Relief and
Emergency Medical Services (DREAMS) program, a joint research and development program of Texas A&M
University, the Texas Engineering Extension Service and the UT Health SCience Center. She also managed the
Advanced Law Enforcement and Response Technology (ALERT) project of the Texas Transportation Institute. She
is the fortner Director of Communications for the Association of Fonner Students of Texas A&M University and
former editor of Texas Aggie magazine.
Michael West ~ Industry Research and Development
Michael West is the former Business Research Manager in the Economic Development & Tourism division of the
Office of the Governor of Texas, where he oversaw decision-support research for the agency's mission to market
Texas as a business location and tourism destination. In 2005-2006, Mr. West conducted the employer and
stakeholder survey research in support of an industry cluster study for the ten county Rural Capital Area Workforce
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
3
Development Board. He previously served as the primary participant for the Governor's Economic Development &
Tourism office in the planning and development of the Texas Industry Cluster Initiative and for planning activities
for the state's new Emerging Technology Fund Program.
As manager of the Business Research program, Mr. West provided economic impact analyses and research for
decision support for each of the projects considered for $295 million Texas Enterprise Fund during its first two
years. Mr. West has worked with the state's economic development agencies since 1989, serving previously as the
director of strategic planning, as a liaison to the governor's office and legislative budget board for budget and
performance issues and as director of the Market Texas Business and Economic Information Clearinghouse.
Mr. West is a member of Texas Economic Development Council and former member of the Board of the COtIncil
for Community and Economic Research. He is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute at the University
of Oklahoma, winning the award for the most outstanding thesis for his essay "Matching Principles and Policies in
Economic Development Programs."
Deborah Webb - Economie Development Coordinator
In this capacity, she is responsible for working with communities and economic development agencies in Texas to
perform strategic analyses, particularly as they pertain to economic and community development. She also performs
market and technical research on behalf of communities, federal laboratories and private companies. Prior to the
position of economic development coordinator, she was the senior research manager for the Mid-Continent
Technology Transfer Center, a NASA-funded program of TED, and was responsible for management of research
activities of the Division. This involved conducting or supervising online database searthes, document retrieval and
related activities.
Lesa Hill- Subject Matter Expert
Lesa Hill is the Division Director for TEEX's Technology & Economic Development Division. She has led the
Economic Development Program since 2006 and established www.ED-Centra1.com to reach out to rural
underserved communities across Texas. The economic development program has launched two major programs with
great success during this time: the Rural Economic and Tourism Development Seminar series and the Technical
Assistance for Regional Growth in Economic Development (TARGET).
Hill established the Knowledge Engineering Center (KEe) at TEEX in 1998 and has served as the director since that
time. KEC offers instructional design, online training, custom software application development, IT tools and
services to clients. Hill bas also led the electronics and semiconductor training program since 2003. Prior to these
positions, she served as Strategic Business Development Manager for one year and Marketing Manager of the
division and its programs for five years.
Elizabetb Ylitalo
Elizabeth graduated from Texas A&M University with a journalism degree. As Coordinator of Marketing & Special
Events at The Association of Former Students she initiated and implemented special events for Texas A&M
Administrators, students, former students, distinguished alumni and industry partners. For almost fOUT years,
Elizabeth participated in and led strategic planning, facility enhancement research, marketing research for print,
website, events and various campus and former student programs. She left'The Association as Marketing Manager
and direct sllpervisor fOT the graphic design and event planning teams in order to pursue a full~time consultant career
in marketing, communications and event planning. Elizabeth currently serves as an adjunct instructor for TEEX,
occasionally partnering with research and creative firms.
TEEX proposes to work closely with the City of La Porte to identify key programs and personnel who can provide the
necessary liaison between the parties throughout the project. Regular reports will be submitted to the primary Point of
Contact (POC) on an established basis; possibly bi~weekly or monthly.
QUALIFICATIONS
For more than 80 years, the goals of Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) have included developing Texas
businesses and the economy, protecting people and the environment, and building a safe, modem infrastructure. The
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
4
agency's ongoing efforts have resuhed in cleaner drinking water, better roads and infrastructure, improved
workplace safety and enhanced public safety. The agency has contrIbuted to the expansion of the state's
semiconductor, electronics, telecommunications and information technology sectors.
TEEX's Technolot!V and Economic Development Division encourages the economic growth and prosperity of
communities by helping them to establish good practices and techniques through training and technical assistance,
including strategic planning; program. development support; market research; feasibility/economic impact studies;
community branding and fundraising support. Our technical assistance provides an objective view of the requested
arealindustry and community as a whole to determine the best path to economic growth and success.
World renowned for its hands-on, customized training, TEEX offers a wide range oftecbnical training programs to
enhance the skills of employed workers and to prepare workers entering the labor force. In addition, TEEX helps
Texas manufacturers adopt new technologies that improve productivity and profits and helps Texas communities
recruit new industries.
TEEX is a member of The Texas A&.M University System, one of the largest systems ofhigber education in the
United States. Through a statewide network of nine Wliversity campuses, seven state agencies, and a comprehensive
Health Science Center, the A&M System educates mOTe than 101,000 students, conducts more than $500 million in
externally funded research, and reaches another 11 million people through service each year. Through this
relationship with the A&M System, TEEX has access to subject matter expertise from various disciplines including
engineering, marketing, economics, agriculture and transportation.
Similar Projects
~~~~arQh_\lall~y ~aJtD~r~LQ Integr;:;!Nc! StICltegiQl'Jao
RVP exists to promote Brazos County, the cities of Bryan and Coll~e Station, the State of Texas and Texas A&M
Their efforts are focused on creating new jobs and investment. They also work with other organizations to make The
Research Valley the best it can be for business by investing in innovation infrastructure, coordinating new workforce
training programs, developing business sites, and implementing smart policy. In performing the Integrated Strategic
Plan for the RVP, TEEX performed the following tasks:
. Conducted a kickoff meeting to review the proposed project plan, discussed quality assurance, reviewed
existing information and documents necessary to accomplish objectives
. Attended the fOUT focus group meetings facilitated by Mays School of Business;
. Delivered the benchmarking report of three agreed upon cities with similarities to Bryan/College Station;
. Using the information provided by R VP, the four focus group reports and results of TEEXIR VP meetings,
TEEX drafted the strategic plan for R VP;
I3LQZQri~:tCQJJJJty_ Falrgro!JnQ~ E~asl!;>illty.study
In 2007, TEEX contracted with Brazoria County for a market study and plan to enhance their current Fairgrounds
fucJlities. TEEX was asked to identify the potential markets and facility improvements/additions necessary to fulfill
the counties vision of a multi-use fairgrounds and expo center. The project consisted of the following activities:
. Identify potential markets and facilities needs for the Brazoria County Fairgrounds and the proposed
convention and expo center
. Document com]~lUnity needs and values related to fairgrounds enhancements
. Provide a basis for further promotion, development and fimdraising for Fairgrounds redevelopment at the
Angleton location.
Description of Study Activities: Using primary and secondary market research, TEEX acquired intelligence on the
types of events that would be interested in using the conceived Brazoria County Convention and Expo Center.
TEEX identified possible customers of the new venue through benchmarking of similar facilities, interviews and/or
surveys with local citizens and users ofthe existing facilities and through a review of literature and documentation
of market trends.
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
5
TEEX also investigated and acquired intelligence on the plans of other communities in the region that were
considering a similar initiative. This helped Brazoria County to determine their competitive position in the
marketplace and establish a plan for promotion and development of the new facility program. In addition, TEEX
interviewed industry representatives to acquire perceptions and market interest in the fairgrounds and expo center.
As a result, TEEX developed a requirements document of the attributes the community and the fairgrounds needed
to possess to be attractive to potential users of the new venue.
)Lemoo_=. CQmmuDjtYilmLEcQ[lQmic_l2~v...e\Qpm(:mt lo.iiiati\'e
In 2007, TEEX contracted with the City ofVemon Texas for a Baseline Conditions Report and Community
Development Initiative and Strategic Plan. The Baseline Conditions Report provided a community snapshot,
showing a Vemon its economic standing through distinct components, including demographics, income statistics,
industrial profile and an audit of infrastructure, financial vitality and other characteristics. The baseline also
provided a foundation from which to build an economic development plan and industrial recruitment strategy for the
future.
The community development workshop documented the community's perceived strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats to prosperity. Through the workshop, TEEX captured dreams, aspirations, fears, and
concerns of community representatives, using the voice of residents and leaders alike to describe a vision for
community development and economic prosperity. During the workshops, we faeilitated community representatives'
identification and prioritization of projects, functions and tasks that must be completed to realize the vision. The
project consisted of the following objectives:
. Identify Vernon's best developmental opportunities for economic, community and tourism prosperity.
. Educate Vernon's elected leadership about emerging trends and opportunities in economic and tourism
development and rally the leadership around a united vision for enhancing prosperity in Vernon.
B.g$trQQ_CQDYentj.QDlCjyjc_. C~nrer_EQQnomjQ..lmRgGtgllitMgLkSl.ti [l~St!Jgy
In 2007, TEEX conducted an Economic Impact and Marketing Study for the Bastrop Economic Development
Corporation. TEEX was asked to identify the economic impact a new facility would have on Bastrop and its Main
Street District as well as identify the potential markets and marketing strategies necessary to maximize the impact
and utility of the proposed facility. The project consisted of the following activities:
. Identify the industry performance and utilization standards for similar facilities in similar Texas markets
. Create five year usage projections based on the local and regional demand for the facility
. Identify and detail the elements of a robust and successful marketing plan for similar facilities in similar
Texas markets, and
. Develop the expected economic impact the facility will have on the Bastrop economy, particularly on the
development of and investment and business activity in the Bastrop Main Street Project area.
HeQwe AirportStl1QY
From March 2006 - February 2007, TEEX conducted a preliminary market study for the Hearne Municipal Airport.
TEEX was asked to identify possible uses of the Hearne Municipal Airport that would support economic
development efforts of the community of Hearne, Texas. The project consisted of the following activities:
. Acquiring intelligence on the types of markets that might be interested in using the Hearne Municipal
Airport
. Investigating and acquiring intelligence on the plans of other communities in the region pertaining to their
airports in order to provide information that would help the City of Hearne determine their competitive
position in the marketplace
. Interviewing knowledgeable industry representatives and area businesses to determine perceptions and
market interest in the Hearne Municipal Airport
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
6
"
. Developing a requirements document containing the attributes the City of Hearne and the Hearne
Municipal Airport will need to possess in order to be attractive to potential customers and developers
PROPOSED BUDGEf
The following tables illustrate the proposed budget by major tasks and the proposed timeline for completion of the
project.
Table 1. Proposed Budget by Task
Tasks Costs
Identify Stakeholders Input - 3 Community Development
Workshops $21,280
Preoaration $2,000
Facilitation $16,000
Consolidation of data $3,280
Review of Master/Comprehensive Plan $7,700
Plan Review $3,500
Imooct Analvsis $4,200
Review of Development Policies $3,500
PoIicvlReoulation Review $1,500
Benchmarking $2,000
Main Street Business District Strateav $24,500
SWOT Analvsis $6,800
Asset Inventory $6,700
Identifv Ememing Markets and Trends $6,200
Identify Funding Opportunities $4,800
Assessment of the Reaional Houston MSA Economy $15,500
Literature Review $3,800
Interviews with Economic Development Officials $4,200
Economic Impact Assessment on La Porte $7,500
Identification of Alternative Strategies $13,400
Identification of Appropriate Economic Development StrateClies $8,200
Analvsis of Pros and Cons $5,200
Consolidation of Strategic Plan $5,400
Travel Expenses $7,447
Total $98,727
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
-
7
REFERENCES
~~mPJL= COITlJDynityalJctEmoQJ])jcJ2eyeJof;lmeotJnitiati'v'e
Sean Stockard - Business Development Corporation of Vemon
President, 940-552-6502
a[azQriaCQ!mty_Ealrg[mmd~ _90d flq:mMarL\etStudy
Debbie Pennington - The Economic Alliance for Brazoria County
Vice President for Operations, 979-848-0560
Mary Ruth Rhodenbaugh - County Commissioner, Brazoria County
979-798-2158
ArthUT Velasquez - Brazoria County
Chief Administrator to County Judge Joe King, 979-864-1200
Bq~t[QPCQ[JV_entiQn/Ciyic. CenteI:J\!'1arket Malysjs
Joe Newman - Bastrop Economic Development Corporation
President and CEO, 512-303-9700
Re~ean;;h Y.aJJey_ Partnership
Todd McDaniel- President and CEO
979-260-1755
Proposal to the City of La Porte
Economic Development Strategic Plan
8
Economic Development
Strategic Plan
RFP #08510
Submitted
May 26, 2008
by
David A. Stedman
Stedman & Associates
9502 Sundance Drive
Houston, Texas 77584
(281) 744-9886
Table of Contents
Section
Page
I. Goals & Objectives......................................................... 4
A. Defining Economic Development Strategies
1. Business Retention
2. Business Recruitment
3. New Business Creation
4. Quality of Place
5. Workforce vs. Knowledgeforce
6. Infrastructure
B. Determining Optimum Economic Mix
C. Evaluating The Status Quo
D. Creating A Climate for Growth
E. Return On Investment
II. ~J)J)r()Clc;t1................................................................................. 4r
A. Prior Plans & Studies
B. Methodology
C. Scheduling
2
Section
Page
III. Project Management.................................................... 9
A. Team Members and Assignments
B. Stakeholder Input & Interface
C. Reporting Process
IV. Qual ifications. . . ... . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . ... . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. . 12
A. Track Record
B. Similar Studies
C. Resources
V. Budget..................................................................... 15
VI. References. . . .. . . ... . . . . . .. . . . .. Ii . ... . .. . . . ... . .. . . . . . . . .. . .. .. . . .. . . . 15
VII. Required Forms........................... ....................... .... 16
3
I. Goals & Objectives
Hope is not a strategy. And repeating the same actions, while expecting a different result, is the
definition of insanity. Yet when it comes to "strategic planning' for economic development, most of the
established think: tanks and planning gurus offer exactly that. After spending tens of thousands of
dollars, communities are generally left with a voluminous report chocked full of graphs, charts and
tables that tell them what they already knew. Much of their "input" meetings are designed to placate
their various constituencies and absorb information that is reprocessed and regurgitated back along with
cookie cutter recommendations. There is little insight, and even less practical advice. This response to
the City of La Porte's Request for Proposal (RFP) is different.
A. Defining Economic Development Strategies
Stedman & Associates will begin by evaluating the evolution of the global marketplace and the effect
that:will have on the Houston gulf coast region as one of the hubs of the emerging North American
trading block. The City of La Porte will be carefully evaluated within this context to define bold
strategies that will enhance the quality of life, increase economic opportunity and deliver your taxpayers
a positive return on investment (ROI). Isn't that, in essence, the only role of economic development? If
you don't get a return on your investment, then you've wasted your money. So, when hired, Stedman &
Associates will bring together a hand-picked team of researchers, economists, analysts and marketers to
give you unique insights and practical strategies that will deliver a superior rate of return.
1. Business Retention & Expansion
For the average community, 83% of the job growth generally comes from existing business. And
if you fail to retain existing jobs, you have to replace them just to break even. Stedman &
Associates will interface with La Porte's economic development team, as well as with the
Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region to analyze and
prioritize La Porte's existing business and industries in terms of long term viability, economic
impact and quality of life. Those businesses that rank highest on this matrix deserve your
greatest level of support. Incentives for the expansion of these existing industries should be just
as aggressive as anything you would offer a newcomer that has never paid taxes in La Porte.
2. Business Recruitment
There are three target audiences that matter when it comes to targeting business recruitment.
They are owners, c-Ievel managers and real estate site consultants in targeted industry clusters
that are viable and advantageous to the area. Among the sector to be evaluated we must include
and emphasize professional support services for the Port of Houston's (PoR) Barbour's Cut,
Bayport and the new Cruise Terminal. Stedman & Associates will work with your City
Management and Economic Development team to help defme a comprehensive strategy to
evaluate and rank your target industry clusters in terms of viability, job creation, economic
impact and quality of life. Those clusters that rank highest will be selected and the key decision
makers and real estate site consultants identified and targeted for a strategic, multi-media direct
response marketing and sales campaign.
3. New Business Creation
Growing new business in important industry clusters is a slower and less certain path to job
growth but one great success story can transform a community. Working with the Small
Business Association and with area colleges and universities, Stedman & Associates will
4
identify and rank potential start-ups in terms of their long-term viability, market cap, job
creation and economic impact. For those that rank highest, we will recommend strategies and
incentives to nurture them in La Porte.
4. Quality of Place
A community that nurtures and sustains a high quality of place will be better able to attract and
retain business, foster innovation and creativity. If La Porte were a consumer product, this would
constitute product improvement and packaging. Conversely, any growth strategy that sacrifices
quality of life for short-term growth is doomed to long-term failure as people will shun and
businesses flee the area. Stedman & Associates will work with La Porte's public and private
sector organizations on issues like airport expansion, historical preservation, recreation,
beautification, main street revitalization, environmental stewardship, conservation, Bay Forest
Golf Course, Sylvan Beach, specialty shopping, entertainment, festivals, social events, cultural
and civic programs to create an integrated strategic plan for enhancing La Porte's perception as
a desirable place to live, work and play. The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region's
historical tour is an initiative that shows great promise.
Recommendations to encourage retail and residential development, office and manufacturing
space must also be part of our comprehensive strategic plan. The La Porte Airport, Sylvan
Beach, La Porte Town Square and the Bay Forrest Golf Course are all vitally important
strategic assets that must be leveraged to attract quality development.
5. Workforce V5. Knowledgeforce
Although education is a quality of place issue, it deserves special mention because it is so very
crucial in any strategic plan for economic development. In the world we live in today, and in the
future that our children will inherit, businesses will need more than just an educated workforce.
We need a knowledgeforce, equipped with the skills to compete in fields like information
technology, biotech, nanotechnology... as well as in the increasingly automated world of
manufacturing, chemical production and energy. Even service sector jobs like retail sales and
auto mechanics now require computer skills. Stedman & Associates pledges to work with
LPISD, San Jacinto College, College of The Mainland, The University of Houston at Clear
Creek and other area colleges as well as with the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region to
help defme a comprehensive strategy for the future.
6. Infrastructure
Roads and rails are the circulatory system of economic growth, and any economic development
strategy that ignores them is doomed to strangle. Stedman & Associates would begin with the
Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) 2007-2011Strategic Plan and the Houston-
Galveston Area Council's (H-GAC) 2035 Plan and review them with La Porte's City Manager
and Engineer to compare them with the City's Thoroughfare, Corridor and Gateway Plans and
the transportation component of the City Master Plan. We would then identify strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) on short-term, interim and long-term mobility
projects essential to La Porte's future. In addition, the La Porte Airport, Bay Forest Golf
Course, parks, groundwater conservation, flood control and drainage are key infrastructure
components of economic development and must be evaluated and addressed in our plan. We
would also review the City's Land Use Plan as well as the Parks, Trails and Open Space
Master Plan.
5
We will identify key infrastructure projects and recommend financing strategies that may
include State, Federal and County participation, public private partnerships, pass through
financing, managed lanes, tolling and municipal bond elections.
B. Determining Optimum Economic Mix
It is clear that each of the factors above are interrelated when it comes to crafting a strategic plan for the
economic development of La Porte. Stedman & Associates proposes to conduct a SWOT analysis and a
community "visioning" workshop to solicit input from all stakeholders. In ranking these factors we will
take into consideration current and past studies, secondary research and commission new primary
economic impact studies. Based upon this information, we will determine the recommended economic
mix by ranking our objectives in terms of immediate need, long-term viability, economic impact, job
creation and quality of place.
C. Evaluating The Status Quo
Robert Burns wrote, "Oh, what a gift that God. could give us, to see ourselves as others see us." We will
evaluate the realities of the changing dynamics of the marketplace, the economic climate and the
evolution of the region in the context of the global economy. Finally, we will address the image of La
Porte within the area, the region and the State. Using this information, we will be in a position to
recommend honest and candid strategies for the City of La Porte that will create transformational
breakthroughs.
D. Creating A Climate for Growth
The "Envisioning Workshops" that Stedman & Associates will conduct will do more than solicit input
from the public and private sectors. These interactive sessions will bring the community together to
create "Buy-In" and a common spirit of commitment and dedication to the future. The marketing
recommendations will not just focus on external audiences, but on the community as welL.. to instill
new energy, pride and confidence. A comprehensive marketing plan will include a positioning strategy,
media plan, public relations recommendations, creative platform, website, electronic and print
newsletters, advertising in key strategic business-to-business publications and direct response
recommendations.
In addition, we need to constantly review P &Z policies and regulations as well as staff interpretation and
implementation. We need a practical balance that is business friendly and affords fast track permitting
and compliance on the one hand, while protecting La Porte's Quality of Place and the public interest on
the other hand.
E. Return On Investment
By creating a ranking matrix for the various components in the mix and using Statistical and Data
(StataCorp) and Regional Impact Modeling Software (RIMS) to conduct economic impact analysis,
Stedman & Associates will be able to show quantifiable projections and visuals that will make it easy to
see and measure the projected return on investment in the [mal La Porte Strategic Economic
Development Plan. By creating a task list and tracking matrix, you will be able to monitor progress
and measure results. When you select Stedman & Associates, you get a clear, measurable returnon
your investment in economic development.
6
II. Approach
A. Prior Plans & Studies
Beginning with the City of La Porte's existing Master/ Comprehensive Plan, the Planning and Zoning
Commissions (P&Z) regulations, the PKF market study for the hotel on Sylvan Beach, the Tax
Increment Reinvestment Zone, Parks, Trails and Open Space Master Plan and the Main Street
Business District and Town Square projects, Stedman & Associates will objectively evaluate all
current plans and studies versus the City of Houston's 2005-2015 Strategic Plan, H-GAC's 2035
Strategic Plan, the recommendations of Dr. Stephen Klineberg at Rice and Dr. Barton Smith at the
University of Houston.
B. Methodology
Upon selection, Stedman & Associates will meet with Ron Bottoms, Gretchen Black, Bay Area
Houston Economic Partnership and Economic Alliance Houston Port Region for a comprehensive
briefmg and a review of the Scope of Work (SOW). As discussed, we will review existing plans and
data prior to setting meetings with Mayor Porter, key staff and members of Council. A series of
"Envisioning Workshops" would involve public sector managers as well as groups of citizens in SWOT
analysis and interactive planning exercises designed to solicit input as well as create a positive climate
for progressive change. After identifying top industry classifications (clusters) we will commission
economic impact analysis studies employing StadaCorp and RIMS software to quantify areas of
greatest benefit. We will also create ranking matrices to determine areas of greatest feasibility, viability
and need. Based upon this data we will set action steps that are time framed and goal oriented. That will
in turn lead to a task analysis and timetable for implementation. Among these tasks will be the creation
of a comprehensive marketing plan. A tracking program will be implemented to monitor progress and
evaluate results versus projections to quantify return on investment.
C. Scheduling
Stedman & Associates recommends the following general timeline for conducting the research and
planning with the goal of touching all internal and external constituencies and having the new
comprehensive plan ready to roll out by the beginning of the next calendar year.
June 10-16 Award notification. Begin review of current and past plans and policies.
June 16-18 Meetings with City Manager & economic development staff.
June 18-20 Meetings with regional economic development partners.
June 20-26 Focus groups on business retention, expansion, infrastructure and quality of place.
June 26-30 Meetings on infrastructure needs, project fmance options and P&Z policies.
July 1-11 Meetings and research on Sylvan Beach, airport, PoR and Bay Forrest Golf Course.
7
July 15 Checkpoint meetings with City management & staff.
July 16-31 Envisioning workshops with public and private sector groups.
Aug 1-31 Economic impact studies conducted.
Aug 15-31 Review infrastructure and quality of place recommendations
Sept 1-12 Checkpoint meetings to review results and conduct rankings.
Sept 15-30 Ranking matrix and targeted clusters profiled.
Oct 1- 10 Marketing plan commissioned.
Oct 15-17 Preliminary marketing plan presented for review and feedback.
Oct 20-24 Revise and adjust
Oct 27-31 Preliminary Strategic Plan presentation.
Nov 3-9 Receive feedback and adjust.
Nov 16-21 Present finished strategic plan.
Nov 21-28 Action steps, task analysis & assignments.
Dec 1-5 Tracking matrix implemented.
Dec 8-15 ROI matrix and measurement index presented.
Jan 2 Roll out full implementation of new economic development strategy.
8
III. Project Management
A. Executive Team
Stedman & Associates offers the City of La Porte the same high level of expertise as larger fInns, but
with less overhead, greater creativity, and much more personalized attention. David Stedman has had
the opportunity to review the credentials of the best fIrms and consultants in economic development in
Texas and has personally worked with each ofthese associates. The City, therefore, has the benefit of a
uniquely gifted and experienced team that is experienced in working together. More importantly, they
offer La Porte fresh ideas and analysis as opposed to the off- the- shelf, 'cookie-cutter' plans that are
hastily customized and thrown together by the more "established" firms in the industry. If you are
looking for a "big name" to over-hype, overcharge and under-deliver, you may pass us by. But, if you
are looking for true insight and superior results, you'll trust...
David A. Stedman
Team leader. facilitator and stratecist.
David Stedman is an astute business strategist with over twenty years experience generating
breakthrough creative strategies in economic development, business development, advertising,
marketing and c-Ievel sales. A talented public speaker and motivator, he is also skilled as a
director of strategic planning, project management, conjoint analysis, quantitative and
qualitative research. The former CEO of the Economic Development Alliance for. Brazoria
County, David revitalized a floundering agency for this county covering 22 cities and 1,407
square miles. David led The Alliance to a new strategic plan that resulted in a 34% increase in
membership and over 2,000 new jobs: David lead recruitment efforts that brought Dish Network
and over 900 new jobs to Brazoria County and retention and expansion programs that spawned
new plants by Dow, BASF and ShinTech. He is successfully secured a grant of $750,000 from
the Texas Enterprise Fund, $950,000 from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund and $1.2
million in skills grants from the Texas Workforce Commission. He lead the fIght for a $50
million bond election that passed by a 67.4% margin, which was leveraged to create over $400
million of road projects. He currently serves on the Board of Pearland Economic Development
Corporation, was Vice Chair of the Gulf Coast Regional Spaceport, TexasOne, the Texas
Economic Development Council, Team Texas, the Branding Task Force for the Greater
Houston Partnership (GHP), the Houston Image Group, and the GHP marketing committee.
Prior to the Alliance, David was Executive Vice President of Hood Marketing Solutions where
he directed efforts on behalf of the Georgia W orId Congress Center and was Chief Operating
Officer of an incubator for emerging technology companies. He also worked for large
advertising agencies like Ogilvy & Mather and was Vice President of Marketing for Gemcraft
Homes. David won Mayoral commendations for the 'Memphis In May' Festival, The Houston
International Business Expo, World Trade Week, The Houston Festival and The Woodlands
'Bottom of The Lake' Festival.
9
Amy Holloway
Facilitator. analyst and marketine: specialist.
Amy Holloway is an energetic, personable and dynamic facilitator and creative marketing talent
with a track record of 12 years experience in generating insight and creating superior results
through research, economic development and marketing strategies. During her consulting career,
she has led focus groups and interviews with thousands of people in client communities across
Texas and around the country. Amy gained her considerable expertise working for Angeles
Angelou and Dr. Tom Perryman (the two most prestigious economic development 'gurus' in
Texas) as Vice President of Economic Development for AngelouEconomics and as an
economic consultant for The Perryman Group. She also was business development manager for
industrial design-build fIrm Gray Construction. Amy literally wrote the book on economic
development marketing. In 2004, she helped the International Economic Development Council
draft a marketing course manual used to train all CEcD candidates. She is a frequent speaker at
economic development events across the country. Amy wrote dozens of economic development
and marketing strategies, including plans for The Greater Houston Partnership, Charleston;
Santa Fe; Metro Orlando; Sugar Land; Northwest North Carolina; Cleveland; Portugal; the
Czech Republic; and the State of Texas.
Ron Cox
Development policy. incentives and {undine: option analyst.
Ron Cox provides over 35 years of expertise and insight on strategic planning, development
policy, economic development incentives andfunding options. Since May 2006, Ron has been
actively consulting with cities in a variety of areas, including strategic planning at the Council
and staff levels, and he particularly excels at working with small to mid-size cities. Current and
former clients include the Cities of Manvel, Brazoria, Bryan, Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson,
Huntsville, Iowa Colony, League City, Montgomery, Richwood and Rosenberg. A former City
Manager of Friendswood, Kilgore and Rusk, Texas, Ron was awarded the Texas City
Management Association (TCMA) Lifetime Achievement Award, an exceptional honor. And,
in 2006, he was given Life Member status in TCMA. He has also worked with the Brazos
Valley Development Council in Bryan and the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG)
in Kilgore. In 1990, Ron was appointed by Governor Bill Clements to the Board of Trustees of
the Texas Municipal Retirement System and served on the Board until 1993. He was appointed
to the TMRS Advisory Board in 2006. He was chosen to serve on the Board of Trustees of the
Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool in 1986 and has served on the Executive
Committee. Ron is a charter member of the Texas Coalition of Cities on Franchised Utility
Issues (TCCFUI). Ron is active in many governmental organizations including the
International City Management Association, Texas Municipal League, and Ron served as
president of TCMA Regions V and VI. He served on the Board of Directors of TCMA from
1995-1997 and served as TCMA's president in 1997-98. He continues to actively participate in
the TCMA Mentoring Program.
10
Miriam Birdwell
Primary research and economic impact analyst.
Miriam Birdwell is a gifted analyst offering truly unique insights that others often miss. She also
has a talent for presenting information in graphic form with charts and visuals that make the
information understandable and compelling. Miriam hold a Masters in Land/Area Development
and Management at Texas State and she has diversified experience with the City of San
Antonio and the Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council ranging from econometrics to economic
and business development. Her core competencies include econometric applications, statistical
analysis (StataCorp and REM!), GIS software (ArcView), quantitative and innovative analytic
methods. Miriam has applied these disciplines with great creativity to issues like transportation,
market demand, demographic, and policy analysis, job creation, real estate and water demand
issues in conjunction with economic development strategies. Accomplishments include creating
San Antonio's economic indicators, an economic impact analysis of Department of Defense
(DOD) spending on the San Antonio economy, a study for the National Homebuilders'
Association that was adopted as a template for a nation-wide review, a 2004 Economic
Development Survey disseminated among 500+ participating agencies nati()llwide, a cost-benefit
analysis of retirees on Southeast states, demographic analysis of Massachusetts schools, market
studies of prototype "destination communities", demand analysis for recreational development,
proprietary research for quantitative decision support tools, and marketing support of services
and products. Miriam has also contributed tax revenue elasticity models, water use analysis for
the Gila River Indian Project, databases of the wireless industry in Texas, commuter rail
feasibility project, transportation ridership profile and viability studies and analyzed voting
patterns through customized surveys and SPSS software. Texas Insider wrote of Miriam's
analysis, "This study truly puts the 000 impact in San Antonio into perspective," and her work
has been cited in numerous San Antonio business publications, the Austin-American Statesman,
Arizona Capitol Times, and Business Journal of Phoenix.
Jerry Walker
Primary research and economic impact analyst.
Jerry Walker, specializes in economic and fIScal impact analysis and cost-benefit analysis and
has conducted over 1,000 analyses of firms, new subdivisions and other projects in Texas, New
Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Indiana, Georgia, California, Florida, and Ohio. Jerry holds
Bachelor and Master of Business Administration degrees in accounting and economics and he
has enjoyed a twelve-year career in economic development consulting for clients that include
many Texas and New Mexico cities, Texas utilities, the Greater Indianapolis Builders
Association, the Indiana Builders Association, the League of Kansas Municipalities and the New
Mexico Economic Development Department. Prior to his economic development career, he was
a supervisory auditor for the US Department of Education and the US Department of Health and
Human Services performing fmancial and operational audits of state and local agencies and other
organizations administering federal programs.
11
B. Stakeholder Input & Interface
It is very important to receive the full input from all stakeholders, including staff, Council, economic
development partners, regional allies and the metropolitan planning authority. As the schedule would
indicate, we intend to solicit this input in face-to-face meetings, as well in our "Envisioning
Workshops". These interactive sessions create a collaborative environment that do more than solicit
input. They serve to bring the community together to create a common spirit of commitment and
dedication to the future.
C. Reporting Process
While the schedule clearly calls for monthly presentations and feedback sessions at every major
juncture, it is anticipated that there will be other meetings and a constant, ongoing dialogue throughout
the process. We will create a tracking calendar that schedules tasks and their completion will be tracked
on an Excel spreadsheet with color tracking of the completion of each phase of the project. This will be
forwarded to all key participants in the planning process. Any deviation from the schedule will be
documented with reasons noted along with a strategy to keep the overall project on schedule.
IV. Qualifications
A. Track Record
As the Stedman & Associates bios would indicate, our team of economic development professionals
offers La Porte over eighty (80) years of combined experience in economic development, strategic
planning, research and marketing that encapsulates everything in the SOW. While this team has been
assembled for this project, it has worked well in Brazoria County and can work well for you. Their
individual accomplishment, integrity and impeccable references clearly demonstrate that they have
worked with cities the size of La Porte and larger, having produced studies of like kind for counties,
regional councils, large cities, same sized cities and that the team members are well acquainted with the
region, the logistics.
David A. Stedman
David Stedman is the former CEO of the Economic Development Alliancefor Brazoria County,
David led The Alliance to a new strategic plan that resulted in a 34% increase in membership
and over 2,000 new jobs. David lead recruitment efforts that brought Dish Network and over 900
new jobs to Brazoria County and retention and expansion programs that spawned new plants by
Dow, BASF and ShinTech. He is successfully secured a grant of $750,000 from the Texas
Enterprise Fund, $950,000 from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund and $1.2 million in
skills grants from the Texas Workforce Commission. He lead the fight for a $50 million bond
election that passed by a 67.4% margin, which was leveraged to create over $400 million of
road projects. Homes. David won Mayoral commendations for the 'Memphis In May' Festival,
The Houston International Business Expo, World Trade Week, The Houston Festival and The
Woodlands ~Bottom of The Lake' Festival.
12
Amy Holloway
During her consulting career, she has led focus groups and interviews with thousands of people
in client communities across Texas and around the country. Amy gained her considerable
expertise working for Angeles Angelou and Dr. Tom Perryman (the two most prestigious
economic development 'gurus' in Texas) as Vice President of Economic Development for
AngelouEconomics and as an economic consultant for The Perryman Group. Amy literally
wrote the book on economic development marketing. In 2004, she helped the International
Economic Development Council draft a marketing course manual used to train all CEcD
candidates. She wrote dozens of economic development and marketing strategies, including
plans for The Greater Houston Partnership, Charleston; Santa Fe; Metro Orlando; Sugar
Land; Northwest North Carolina; Cleveland; Portugal; the Czech Republic; and the State of
Texas .
Ron Cox
Ron Cox provides over 35 years of expertise and insight on strategic planning, development
policy, economic development incentives and funding options. Current and former clients
include the Cities of Manvel, Brazoria, Bryan, Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, Huntsville, Iowa
Colony, League City, Montgomery, Richwood and Rosenberg. A former City Manager of
Friendswood, Kilgore and Rusk, Texas, Ron was awarded the Texas City Management
Association (TCMA) Lifetime Achievement Award.
Miriam Birdwell
Primarv research and economic impact analyst.
Miriam Birdwell has diversified experience with the City of San Antonio and the Austin-San
Antonio Corridor Council ranging from econometrics studies to economic and business
development. Accomplishments include creating San Antonio's economic indicators, an
economic impact analysis of Department of Defense (DOD) spending on the San Antonio
economy, a study for the National Homebuilders' Association that was adopted as a template for
a nation-wide review, a 2004 Economic Development Survey disseminated among 500+
participating agencies nationwide, a cost-benefit analysis of retirees on Southeast states,
demographic analysis of Massachusetts schools, market studies of prototype "destination
communities", demand analysis for recreational development, proprietary research for
quantitative decision support tools, and marketing support of services and products. Miriam has
also contributed tax revenue elasticity models, water use analysis for the Gila River Indian
Project, databases of the wireless industry in Texas, commuter rail feasibility project,
transportation ridership profile and viability studies. Texas Insider wrote of Miriam's analysis,
'This study truly puts the 000 impact in San Antonio into perspective," and her work has been
cited in numerous San Antonio business publications, the Austin-American Statesman, Arizona
Capitol Times, and Business Journal of Phoenix.
13
Jerry Walker
Jerry Walker, specializes in economic andflScal impact analysis and cost-benefit analysis and
has conducted over 1,000 analyses of firms, new subdivisions and other projects in Texas, New
Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Indiana, Georgia, California, Florida, and Ohio. Clients that include
many Texas and New Mexico cities, Texas utilities, the Greater Indianapolis Builders
Association, the Indiana Builders Association, the League of Kansas Municipalities and the New
Mexico Economic Development Department.
B. Similar Studies
The Economic
Development Alliance Cleveland Iowa Colony
for Brazoria County
TeamTexas League City
The Greater Houston
Partnership Manvel Richwood
Charleston Brazoria Rosenberg
Santa Fe Bryan Friendswood
Orlando Clear Lake Shores Kilgore
Sugar Land Dickinson San Antonio
North Carolina Huntsville
C. Resources
The resources needed to complete this project include all the expertise, software and research acumen
needed to perform the SOW. We also have excellent knowledge of the area, the regional players and a
good number of the prior studies that have been done.
14
V. Budget
Stedman & Associates proposes that the entire Scope of Work (SOW) proposed herein would be
performed within an overall budget of. . .
Fees & Professional Services
$75,000
Expenses * *
$10,000
Total
$85,000
**Expenses are estimated to include purchased databases, hotel and meeting facilities, presentation
expenses, graphic design, travel and meals.
VI. References
John Willy Former Brazoria County Judge 979-849-4655
Gerald Roberts Brazoria County Engineer 979-864-1269 979-236-0062
Tom Reid Mayor of Pearl and, Texas 281-652-1654 281-485-3560
Delores Martin Mayor of Manvel 281-489-0630 281-489-3203
Fred Welch Pearland Economic Development 281-654-1629 713-775-4068
3
VII. Required Forms
4
CITY OF LA PORTE
The foregoing prices shall include all labor, materials, equipment, removal, overhead, profit, freight,
insurance, etc., to cover the finished work specified in this proposal.
All items proposed and installed under this procurement must be new and unused and in undamaged
condition.
The City of La Porte is tax exempt and no taxes shall be included in the pricing of this proposal.
Respondent understands that the Owner reserves the right to reject any or all offers and to waive any
informalities in the proposal.
The respondent agrees that this proposal shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of
ninety (90) calendar days after the scheduled closing time for receiving proposals.
The undersigned affirms they are duly authorized to represent this firm, that this proposal has not
been prepared in collusion with any other firm, and that the contents contained herein have not been
communicated to any other firm prior to the official opening.
Respectfully submitted:
Houston. Texas 77584
City, State, Zip Code
David A. Stedman
~I'-
Ignature
davidastedman@yahoo.com
E-mail
Stedman & Associates
Business
9502 Sundance Drive
Address
(281) 744-9886
. Office Phone
Fax Number
1
CITY OF LA PORTE
CERTIFICATION BY RESPONDENT
City of La Porte Ordinance #98-2217 prohibits any expenditure for goods or services by the City of La
Porte from any person, firm, or corporation owing any delinquent indebtedness to the City. The
undersigned respondent further certifies that it is in compliance with the requirements of said
ordinance. A copy of the ordinance may be obtained by contacting the City of La Porte Purchasing
Division at 281-470-5126.
If undersigned is not in compliance with Ordinance 98-2217, it hereby assigns to the City of La Porte,
the amount of its delinquent indebtedness to the City of La Porte, to be deducted by the City of La
Porte from the amounts due the undersigned.
Failure to remit this certification with the proposal or non-compliance with said ordinance shall be just
cause for rejection or disqualification of proposal.
~ The undersigned hereby certifies that it is in compliance with Ordinance 98-2217.
or
_ The undersigned assigns to the City of La Porte, the amount of its delinquent indebtedness, to
be deducted by the City of La Porte from the amounts due the undersigned.
(Initial one of the above)
Business Name:
Stedman & Associates
Address:
9502 Sundance Drive
Houston. TX 77584
Printed Name:
Authorized Signature:
2
CITY OF LA PORTE
INDEMNITY HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Contractor, its successors, assigns and guarantors, shall pay,
defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of La Porte, its agents, representatives, officers,
directors, officials and employees from and against all allegations, demands, proceedings, suits,
actions, claims, including claims of patent or copyright infringement, damages, losses, expenses,
including but not limited to, attorney's fees, court costs, and the cost of appellate proceedings, and all
claim adjusting and handling expenses, related to, arising from or out of or resulting from any actions,
acts, errors, mistakes or omissions caused in whole or part by Contractor relating to work, services
and/or products provided in the performance of this Contract, including but not limited to, any
Subcontractor or anyone directly or indirectly employed by or working as an independent contractor
for Contractor or said Subcontractors or anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable and any
injury or damages claimed by any of Contractor's and Subcontractor's employees or independent
contractors.
The Contractor expressly understands and agrees that any insurance policies required by this
contract, or otherwise provided by the Contractor, shall in no way limit the responsibility to indemnify,
keep and save harmless and defend the City of La Porte, its Council members, officers, agents and
employees and herein provided.
Stedman & Associates
Contractor
Mav 26, 2008
Date
David A. Stedman
Printed Name
~~L
Ignature
3
RFP# 08510 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN
PROPOSAL
TO: CITY OF LA PORTE
2963 N. 23rd STREET
LA PORTE, TX 77571
FROM: COMPANY Stedman & Associates
ADDRESS 9502 Sundance Drive
CITY Houston
STATE/ZIP TX 77584
PHONE (281) 744-9886
Cost of services per attached specifications
---.J85,000
I, THE UNDERSIGNED OFFICIAL OF THE BELOW IDENTIFIED COMPANY, CERTIFY THAT I
HAVE EXAMINED ALL OF THE MATERIALS CONTAINED IN THIS RFP AND THAT I HAVE MET
ALL REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS, EXCEPT AS CLEARLY NOTED IN MY ATTACHED
DOCUMENTS. I FURTHER CERTIFY THAT ALL COSTS HAVE BEEN SHOWN AND I AGREE TO
BEAR THE BURDEN OF ANY AND ALL UNDISCLOSED COSTS.
OFFICER (Printed name) David A. Stedman
FIRM NAME Stedman & Associates
DATE May 26, 2008
4
10
-
City of La Porte
La Porte Development Corporation (038) Fund Summary
(Section 4B Sales Tax)
Beginning Fund Balance 9/30/07
4,435,668
Plus Estimated 07 -08 Revenues
Less 07-08 Expenditures and Commitments
Debt Payments
Economic Development
Capital Projects/Transfers
Total Expenditures
837,248
304,764
1,050,000
Estimated Fund Balance 9/30/08
Plus 08-09 Revenues:
1/2 Cent Sales Tax
Interest Income
Total Revenues
1,542,506
71 ,748
Equals Total Resources
Less 08-09 Expenditures:
Operations
Debt Service Transfer *
Mainstreet Revitalization Program
Capital Projects
287,405
766,932
200,000
2,700,000
Total Expenditures
Ending Fund Balance 9/30/09
1,942,057
2,192,012
4,185,713
1,614,254
5,799,967
3,954,337
1,845,630
Revenues
Expenditures & Commitments
Revenues over Expenditures
Estimated
2007 -08
1,942,057
2,192,012
(249,955)
Projected
2008-09
1,614,254
3,954,337
(2,340,083)
* Debt Service Payments for Library, Bay Area Boulevard & Canada Road and Ballfields.
PROGRAM HTEPGM/GM601U
PREPARED 7/02/08, 8,43,34
WORK-SHEET,
DESCRIPTION,
FISCAL YEAR,
FROM ACCOUNT,
TO ACCOUNT,
SELECTION,
TRANSACTION TYPE,
USER,
SECURITY,
OMIT DESCRIPTION,
HORIZONTAL SHIFT,
SUMMARY TOTALS,
ACCOUNT SUPPRESSION,
FUND SORT PRIORITY,
DEPT SORT PRIORITY,
DEPT CAT PRIORITY,
DIV SORT PRIORITY,
STAB SORT PRIORITY,
STAS SORT PRIORITY,
ELM SORT PRIORITY,
OBJ SORT PRIORITY,
CAT SORT PRIORITY,
REV/EXP PRIORITY,
ACCOUNT NUMBER,
FIELD USAGE,
B Base GMA2YR 1 9
B Base GMLYA 2 9
C Level 08AB 3 9
C Level 08ES 4 9
C Level 09CM 5 9
SPECIAL OPTIONS,
ELEMENT RANGE, 1
BEFORE HEAD TYPE, BN
HEADER ON MI LINE,
BLANK LINE AFTER MI,
FORCE NEG REVENUE,
BUDGET LEVEL ALLOC,
HEADER ON EVERY PAGE, Y
RECORDS SELECTED,
SUMMARY RECORDS,
WORKSHEET INFORMATION
B-1 BOOK
DIVISIONAL DETAIL - FOR PROPOSED BUDGET
2008
38-5050-000-00-00
38-9999-999-99-99
RANGE
EXPENDITURES
FI SHELLEY
Y
YES
SORT/BREAK/P
1 1
2 1
o
3
o
o
o
o
o
o
STANDARD
BREAK
1
1
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
BUDGET
ESTIMATE
CITY MANAGER
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2007-08
REVIEW
28
4
PAGE
J
J
J
J
J
1
PREPARED 07/02/08, 08,43,34 BUDGET PREPARATION WORKSHEET PAGE 1
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009
ACTUAL ACTUAL BUDGET ESTIMATE CITY MANAGER
ACCOUNT NUMBER ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2007-08 REVIEW
FUND 038 SECTION 4B SALES TAX
DEPT 60 ADMINISTRATION
DIV 30 SECTION 4B SALES TAX
038-6030-565.10-10 REGULAR EARNINGS 0 26,770 61,287 69,302 71,999
038-6030-565.10-20 OVERTIME 0 0 0 0 2,000
038-6030-565.10-35 LONGEVITY 0 0 0 72
038-6030-565.10-60 FICA 1,979 4,688 5,096 5,513
038-6030-565.10-65 RETIREMENT 0 3,504 8,430 9,382 10,406
038-6030-565.10-80 INSURANCE - MEDICAL 0 6,000 7,793 7,793 6,357
038-6030-565.10-81 INSURANCE - LIFE 18 58 53 46
038-6030-565.20-01 OFFICE 0 435 1,000 500 500
038-6030-565.20-02 POSTAGE 0 178 3,000 500 500
038-6030-565.20-15 OTHER SUPPLIES 1,582 1,500 1,500 1,000
038-6030-565.30-01 MEMBERS & SUBSCRIPTIONS 0 1,320 1,500 1,500 21,850
038-6030-565.30-20 TRAINING/SEMINARS 0 2,502 5,500 8,000 6,000
038-6030-565.40-11 BUILDING 0 0 500 10,000
038-6030-565.40-60 COMPUTER LEASE FEES 0 0 770 770 628
038-6030-565.40-65 COMPUTER MAINTENANCE FEES 0 3,168 3,168 2,334
038-6030-565.50-03 LEGAL 261 5,000 3,500 5,000
038-6030-565.50-07 OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVIC 0 74,959 15,000 162,000 50,000
038-6030-565.60-05 ADVERTISING 3,500 9,000 12,000
038-6030-565.60-10 JANITORIAL SERVICES 0 0 500
038-6030-565.70-01 ELECTRICAL 0 0 0 6,300 13,000
038-6030-565.70-02 NATURAL GAS 300 1,500
038-6030-565.70-04 WATER 0 0 0 300 600
038-6030-565.70-05 MISC UTILITIES 0 300 600
PREPARED 07/02/08, 08,43,34
ACCOUNT NUMBER
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
FUND 038 SECTION 4B SALES TAX
DEPT 60 ADMINISTRATION
DIV 30 SECTION 4B SALES TAX
038-6030-565.90-50 CONTINGENCY
038-6030-565.99-97 REQ FOR SPECIAL PROGRAMS
038-6030-680.90-04 ADMN TRANS TO FUND 004
038-6030-680.90-15 ADMN TRANS TO FUND 015
038-6030-680.90-33 TRANSFER
TO ST MAINT FUND
SECTION 4B SALES TAX
ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 4B SALES TAX
BUDGET PREPARATION WORKSHEET
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009
ACTUAL
2005-06
ESTIMATE
2007-08
CITY MANAGER
REVIEW
ACTUAL
2006-07
BUDGET
2007-08
0 156
4,000 5,000
0 50,000
0 10,000
10,000 215,000
740,060
732,180 837,248
837,248 766,932
0 0
0 2,700,000
0 250,000
0 0
740,060 1,101,844
973,442 1,142,012
3,954,337
740,060 1,101,844
973,442 1,142,012
740,060 1,101,844 3,954,337
973,442 1,142,012
3,954,337
740,060 1,101,844
973,442 1,142,012
3,954,337
.\ I. () 5 Q/()CO
2-) Iq2--) 0 12- k
4, to oq o1J\)
\ 216, lJtJO
] 2-6, L{;O_
$ \ / c6'b, ODD
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