HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 2025 1015 CC REG ITEM 09BCITY OF MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA
City Council Meeting
of October 15, 2025
ACTION APPROVED STAFF
RECOMMENDATION, INCLUDING
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 2025-
4355. (ROLL CALL VOTE UNANIMOUS)
BY A. Hurtado.
B. Consider Agreement with SCI Consulting Group for Park Maintenance
Assessment District Revenue Enhancement Measures; and Consider Resolution
Amending the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget by Appropriating $170,951 from the
General Fund. Staff Recommendation: 1) Approve Agreement with SCI Consulting
Group in the amount of $170,951 for Park Maintenance Assessment District
Revenue Enhancement Measures and authorize the City Manager to sign the
agreement, subject to final language approval by the City Manager; and 2) Adopt
Resolution No. 2025-4355 amending the Fiscal Year 2025/26 budget to
appropriate $170,951 from the General Fund. (Staff: Jeremy Laurentowski,
Parks & Recreation Director) (ROLL CALL VOTE REQUIRED)
Item: 9.B.
MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA REPORT
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Jeremy Laurentowski, Parks and Recreation Director
DATE: 10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
SUBJECT: Consider Agreement with SCI Consulting Group for Park Maintenance
Assessment District Revenue Enhancement Measures; and Consider
Resolution Amending Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget by Appropriating
$170,951 from the General Fund
BACKGROUND
In 1999, an assessment ballot proceeding was conducted and the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 1999-1625 approving the Assessment Engineer’s Report, the formation
of the Parks and Recreation Maintenance and Improvement District (Parks Maintenance
District), and the levy of an annual assessment to support park maintenance operations.
Per the Engineer’s Report, 25% of the benefits conferred by the improvements
(maintenance and improvement of City parks and recreation facilities) are considered
General Benefit and the remaining 75% of the benefits are considered Special Benefits
which specifically benefit the assessed properties. Due to this analysis, 25% of the district
expenses must be covered by revenue from non-assessment funds, such as the General
Fund. The initial assessment was established at $39.00 per single-family equivalent
(SFE) and included an annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase, not to exceed 3%
per year. However, the initial assessment only covered 52% of total cost, with the
remaining 48% funded by the General Fund or other available revenue sources.
Since then, park maintenance expenses have significantly outpaced assessment
revenue. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2024/25 Engineer’s Report established an assessment
rate of $72.88 per SFE and estimates that the proposed assessment will generate
approximately $1,007,619 in revenue allocated to the park maintenance operations. At
the approved rate, assessment revenue will cover approximately 39% of the operating
budget or 15% of the total budget, which includes Operating costs and Capital
Improvement costs.
On June 5, 2024, the City Council requested a future agenda item to consider options to
increase the assessment revenue associated with the current Parks Maintenance District,
including the process to initiate a Proposition 218 Assessment Mail Ballot Proceeding.
Item: 9.B.
8
Honorable City Council
10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
Page 2
On January 15, 2025, staff presented an agenda report to the City Council summarizing
the two most common options the City could consider to increase revenue for park
maintenance operations: a Proposition 218 Assessment Mail Ballot Proceeding (Mail
Ballot Proceeding) and a Citywide Special Parcel Tax (Special Tax). Both options would
require a vote and if passed, both are collected by the County with property taxes.
Additionally, during the Special City Council meeting of August 8, 2025, staff presented
an agenda report regarding the status of the City’s General Fund and review of the City’s
10-Year Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP), as well as considerations for possible revenue
enhancement measures and financing options.
The LTFP was first introduced in May 2024 and subsequently updated during the Budget
Study Session on May 28, 2025. The updated LTFP projected that the City’s General
Fund will face a structural deficit beginning in FY 2029/30.
To avoid a projected structural deficit, it was discussed that the City will require additional
long-term General Fund revenue to address the following needs:
• Rising Public Safety costs that consistently outpace CPI and the growth in GF
revenues.
• Ongoing investment to sustain the City’s Pavement Management Plan.
• A decline in interest earnings as reserves are drawn down to support major capital
improvement projects.
• Increased GF subsidies for Assessment District operations and Park
Maintenance Fund.
• Continued subsidies for the Community Development Fund and the Engineering
Fund, which are not fully self-supporting.
9
Honorable City Council
10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
Page 3
As shown in the table below, over the last several years the General Fund has subsidized
park maintenance operations between 51% and 67%. Even though the City has made a
considerable effort to reduce maintenance costs, the General Fund is still contributing a
significant portion of the operating costs. It is likely that the City has reached the point
where expenditures have stabilized and will most likely increase in future years, as labor,
materials, and utility costs continue to rise.
To reduce the General Fund transfer to 25% as outlined in the Engineer’s Report, an
additional $570,000 in assessment revenue will be needed. This equates to an estimated
increase of $41 per SFE.
Currently, the Equipment Replacement Fund (ERF) is funded with General Fund savings.
The ERF funds the replacement of Capital Assets, such as picnic tables, playground
equipment, gazebos and shade structures, and requires an additional $396,000 per year
to fully fund the ERF. With this addition, the total operating expenses rises to $2,492,472.
The current assessment revenue combined with a 25% General Fund contribution covers
$1,631,272, leaving $861,200 shortfall to fully fund park maintenance operations. To
address this gap, additional assessment revenue of $861,200 would be necessary, which
represents a total increase of $61 per SFE.
DISCUSSION
As mentioned previously, on January 15, 2025, staff provided the City Council with a
summary of the two most common options the City can consider to increase revenue
specifically for park maintenance operations, i.e. a Mail Ballot Proceeding and a Special
Tax. Both options require a vote, and if passed, revenue is collected with property taxes.
Fiscal Year
Assessment
Levy
Other
Revenue
Operating
Expense Shortage GF Transfer In GF %
FY 2016-17 782,342$ 8,837$ (2,126,845)$ (1,335,666)$ 1,335,666$ 63%
FY 2017-18 818,161$ 22,207$ (2,525,989)$ (1,685,621)$ 1,685,621$ 67%
FY 2018-19 820,207$ 31,277$ (2,347,122)$ (1,495,638)$ 1,495,638$ 64%
FY 2019-20 861,477$ 26,959$ (2,228,866)$ (1,340,430)$ 1,340,430$ 60%
FY 2020-21 873,677$ 11,310$ (2,039,608)$ (1,154,621)$ 1,154,621$ 57%
FY 2021-22 945,486$ 21,490$ (2,163,002)$ (1,196,027)$ 1,196,027$ 55%
FY 2022-23 955,993$ 62,134$ (2,078,694)$ (1,060,566)$ 1,060,566$ 51%
FY 2023-24 993,069$ 19,032$ (2,096,472)$ (1,084,371)$ 1,084,371$ 52%
Fiscal Year
Assessment
Levy
Other
Revenue
Operating
Expense Shortage GF Transfer In GF %
FY 2023-24 993,069$ 19,032$ (2,096,472)$ (1,084,371)$ 1,084,371$ 52%
Additional Levy 570,000$ 570,000$ (570,000)$
Total 1,563,069$ 19,032$ (2,096,472)$ (514,371)$ 514,371$ 25%
Fiscal Year
Assessment
Le vy
Other
Revenue
Operating
Expense
Operating
Surplus/(Deficit)GF Transfer In Shortage GF %
FY 2023-24 993,069$ 19,032$ (2,096,472)$ (1,084,371)$ 1,084,371$ -$ 52%
Equip Repl Fund (396,000)$
GF 25% Model 993,069$ 19,032$ (2,492,472)$ (1,480,371)$ 619,171$ (861,200)$ 25%
10
Honorable City Council
10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
Page 4
Ultimately, the City Council determined that an analysis of both options would be
appropriate and directed staff to issue a Request for Qualifications and Proposals
(RFP/Q) to engage a consultant to assist the City with this effort.
On March 12, 2025, staff issued an RFP/Q for Consulting Services for Parks Maintenance
Assessment District Revenue Enhancement Measures. The RFP/Q highlighted the
following primary objectives:
• Prepare a preliminary feasibility analysis of the potential revenue enhancement
measures to increase revenue for the installation, maintenance, servicing and
administration of park and recreation facilities: 1) a Mail Ballot Proceeding in
connection with the existing District; and/or 2) a City-wide Special Tax.
• Recommend a revenue enhancement measure to the City Council based on the
feasibility analysis.
• With respect to the selected revenue enhancement measure, prepare and conduct
a Public Opinion Survey of property owners (Mail Ballot Proceeding) or registered
voters (Special Tax), as applicable.
• Analyze and summarize Public Opinion Survey results.
• Make a recommendation to the City Council based on the analysis of the Public
Opinion Survey results.
• If authorized by the City Council, assist the City to implement the selected revenue
enhancement measure.
On April 2, 2025, the City received RFP/Q submissions from two consulting firms, SCI
Consulting Group (SCI) and NBS Consultants, and conducted interviews with both firms
to evaluate their qualifications. Although both companies demonstrated substantial
experience in revenue enhancement measures, staff recommends entering into an
agreement with SCI based on the City’s positive prior experiences with the firm, as well
as a more cost-effective proposal. Originally founded as Shilts Consultants, Inc. the City
has contracted with SCI since 1998 for a variety of Assessment Engineering Services
and currently contracts with SCI for the annual administration of the City’s Landscape
Maintenance Assessment Districts and the Parks Maintenance District. SCI was also the
consultant that the City hired in 1998 to establish the current Park Maintenance District
and conduct the successful Mail Ballot Proceeding in 1999.
SCI has included EMC Research (EMC) as part of their project team. EMC is a national
full-service opinion research firm with over 30-years’ experience working with public
agencies to measure polling, including Prop 218 measures. EMC is proposing a hybrid
approach to the Public Opinion Survey, using a mix of telephone, text messaging, and
email. EMC recommends a sample size of 400 respondents which would result in a
margin of error of around 4.9 percent points and a 95% confidence interval.
SCI’s approach follows the two-phase structure outlined in the RFQ/P. Phase 1 will
include a comprehensive feasibility analysis of both a Mail Ballot Proceeding and a
Special Tax. The analysis will be grounded with technical data and community context
and will be followed by a public opinion survey to test support levels and guide the
11
Honorable City Council
10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
Page 5
City Council. Phase 2 will include either the preparation of the Engineer’s Report and
coordination of a Mail Ballot if the assessment option is selected, or Special Tax election
proceedings if the Special Tax option is selected, and delivery of related public
information services that align with the City’s direction.
SCI will draw from the preliminary findings developed in the first phase to help the City
determine a sound and supportable path forward, whether that involves pursuing an
increase to the existing assessment or pursuing a Special Tax. Should the City Council
choose to proceed with a measure, SCI will finalize the tax or assessment structure,
prepare all necessary documentation, and coordinate with the City Attorney, and the
County and City Clerk to ensure a legally compliant and timely process. Although there
are many procedural and substantive requirements related to both a Mail Ballot
Proceeding and Special Tax, a Mail Ballot could essentially move forward at any time
since it will be managed directly by the City. Even though the timeline is flexible, it would
likely need to conclude by November 2026 to be included on the FY 2027/28 tax roll.
However, a Special Tax measure will need to be coordinated with the County Elections
Division and an election consolidation request, including a request for a measure, would
need to be completed no later than June 26, 2026, in order to get it on the November
2026 ballot.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as it does
not constitute a project, as defined by Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines.
Therefore, no further environmental review is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
Based on the City Council’s prior direction, the Cost Proposal itemized certain tasks and
milestones so that the work could be phased and/or stopped should a Public Opinion
Survey provide unfavorable results. The primary tasks outlined in the RFP/Q are as
follows:
Phase I:
• Task 1.1: Initial Planning and Preliminary Assessment/Tax $9,800
• Task 1.2: Presentation – Summary of Findings and Recommendation $2,600
• Task 1.3: Public Opinion Survey (POS) $41,910
• Task 1.4: Presentation – Results of POS and Recommendation $2,600
Sub-Total Phase I $56,910
Phase II:
• Task 2.1: (Option 1) Assessment Engineering and Engineer’s Report $29,200
• Task 2.2: (Option 1) Proposition 218 Mail Ballot Proceeding Services $45,200
• Task 2.3: (Option 2) Special Tax Election Services $25,000
• Task 2.4: (Option 1 & 2) Non-advocacy Informational Outreach Services $20,600
Sub-Total Phase II (Option 1) $95,000
Sub-Total Phase II (Option 2) $45,600
12
Honorable City Council
10/15/2025 Regular Meeting
Page 6
The total cost for this effort is $170,951, which includes the Phase I costs, the Phase II
Option 1 costs since this is the higher of the two options, $3,500 for incidentals and a
10% contingency in the amount of $15,541. However, the total cost will depend on
whether the City pursues an assessment Mail Ballot Proceeding or a Special Tax
measure, as each option carries distinct requirements and associated costs.
Additionally, should the City choose to move forward with a Special Tax measure, some
additional funding will be needed to cover County election expenses. Based on recent
information obtained from the City of Santa Paula related to a 2024 election held for
Measure R, the City of Moorpark could expect to spend as much as $20,000 for election
services. However, this amount is dependent on several factors, such as when the
election is held, how many other measures are on the ballot to spread the costs, or if it’s
a special all-mail election. These cost factors will be further evaluated as this process
moves forward.
COUNCIL GOAL COMPLIANCE
This action is consistent with City Council Strategic Priority: Goal 3: “Excellent City
Governance”, Objective 3.2: “Consider Parks and Recreation Maintenance Improvement
District Revenue Enhancement Measures.”
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (ROLL CALL VOTE REQUIRED)
1. Approve Agreement with SCI Consulting Group in the amount of $170,951 for Park
Maintenance Assessment District Revenue Enhancement Measures and
authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement, subject to final language
approval by the City Manager; and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-____ amending the Fiscal Year 2025/26 budget to
appropriate $170,951 from the General Fund.
Attachment 1: Agreement with SCI Consulting Group
Attachment 2: Draft Resolution No. 2025-____
13
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF MOORPARK
AND
SCI CONSULTING GROUP, FOR PARKS MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
REVENUE ENHANCEMENT MEASURES
THIS AGREEMENT, executed as of _________________________, is between
the City of Moorpark, a municipal corporation (“City”) and SCI Consulting Group, a
corporation (“Consultant”). In consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions set
forth herein, the parties agree as follows:
WHEREAS, City has the need for parks maintenance assessment district revenue
enhancement services; and
WHEREAS, Consultant specializes in providing such services and has the proper
work experience, certifications, and background to carry out the duties involved; and
WHEREAS, Consultant has submitted to City a Proposal dated 09/22/2025, which
is attached hereto as Exhibit C.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, benefits, and
premises herein stated, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1.TERM
The term of this Agreement shall be from the date of execution to completion,
unless this Agreement is terminated or suspended pursuant to this Agreement.
2.SCOPE OF SERVICES
City does hereby retain Consultant, as an independent contractor, in a contractual
capacity to provide parks maintenance assessment district revenue enhancement
services, as set forth in Exhibit C. In the event there is a conflict between the provisions
of Exhibit C and this Agreement, the language contained in this Agreement shall take
precedence.
Consultant shall perform the tasks described and set forth in Exhibit C Consultant
shall complete the tasks according to the schedule of performance which is also set forth
in Exhibit C.
Compensation for the services to be performed by Consultant shall be in
accordance with Exhibit C. Compensation shall not exceed the rates or total contract
value of one hundred seventy thousand nine hundred fifty-one dollars ($170,951.00),
which includes a contingency of fifteen thousand five hundred forty-one dollars
($15,541.00), without a written Amendment to the Agreement executed by both parties.
Payment by City to Consultant shall be in accordance with the provisions of this
Agreement.
ATTACHMENT 1
14
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 2 of 16
3. PERFORMANCE
Consultant shall at all times faithfully, competently and to the best of their ability,
experience, standard of care, and talent, perform all tasks described herein. Consultant
shall employ, at a minimum, generally accepted standards and practices utilized by
persons engaged in providing similar services as are required of Consultant hereunder in
meeting its obligations under this Agreement.
4. MANAGEMENT
The individual directly responsible for Consultant’s overall performance of the
Agreement provisions herein above set forth and to serve as principal liaison between
City and Consultant shall be John Bliss, and no other individual may be substituted
without the prior written approval of the City Manager.
The City’s contact person in charge of administration of this Agreement, and to
serve as principal liaison between Consultant and City, shall be the City Manager or the
City Manager’s designee.
5. PAYMENT
Taxpayer ID or Social Security numbers must be provided by Consultant on an
IRS W-9 form before payments may be made by City to Consultant.
The City agrees to pay Consultant monthly, in accordance with the payment rates
and terms and the schedule of payment as set forth in Exhibit C, based upon actual time
spent on the above tasks. This amount shall not exceed one hundred seventy thousand
nine hundred fifty-one dollars ($170,951.00), which includes a contingency of fifteen
thousand five hundred forty-one dollars ($15,541.00), for the total term of the Agreement
unless additional payment is approved as provided in this Agreement.
Consultant shall not be compensated for any services rendered in connection with
its performance of this Agreement, which are in addition to those set forth herein, unless
such additional services and compensation are authorized, in advance, in a written
amendment to this Agreement executed by both parties.
Consultant shall submit invoices monthly for actual services performed. Invoices
shall be submitted on or about the first business day of each month, or as soon thereafter
as practical, for services provided in the previous month. Payment shall be made within
thirty (30) days of receipt of each invoice as to all non-disputed fees. Any expense or
reimbursable cost appearing on any invoice shall be accompanied by a receipt or other
documentation subject to approval of the City Manager or the City Manager’s designee.
If the City disputes any of Consultant’s fees or expenses, City shall give written notice to
Consultant within thirty (30) days of receipt of any disputed fees set forth on the invoice.
15
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 3 of 16
6. TERMINATION OR SUSPENSION WITHOUT CAUSE
The City may at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, suspend, or
terminate this Agreement, or any portion hereof, by serving upon the Consultant at least
ten (10) days prior written notice. Upon receipt of said notice, the Consultant shall
immediately cease all work under this Agreement, unless the notice provides otherwise.
If the City suspends or terminates a portion of this Agreement, such suspension or
termination shall not make void or invalidate the remainder of this Agreement.
The Consultant may terminate this Agreement only by providing City with written
notice no less than thirty (30) days in advance of such termination.
In the event this Agreement is terminated or suspended pursuant to this Section,
the City shall pay to Consultant the actual value of the work performed up to the time of
termination or suspension, provided that the work performed is of value to the City. Upon
termination or suspension of the Agreement pursuant to this Section, the Consultant will
submit an invoice to the City pursuant to this Agreement.
7. DEFAULT OF CONSULTANT
The Consultant’s failure to comply with the provisions of this Agreement shall
constitute a default. In the event that Consultant is in default for cause under the terms of
this Agreement, City shall have no obligation or duty to continue compensating Consultant
for any work performed after the date of default and can terminate or suspend this
Agreement immediately by written notice to the Consultant. If such failure by the
Consultant to make progress in the performance of work hereunder arises out of causes
beyond the Consultant’s control, and without fault or negligence of the Consultant, it shall
not be considered a default.
If the City Manager or his/her designee determines that the Consultant is in default
in the performance of any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement, he/she shall cause
to be served upon the Consultant a written notice of the default. The Consultant shall
have thirty (30) days after service upon it of said notice in which to cure the default by
rendering a satisfactory performance. In the event that the Consultant fails to cure its
default within such period of time, the City shall have the right, notwithstanding any other
provision of this Agreement, to terminate this Agreement without further notice and
without prejudice to any other remedy to which it may be entitled at law, in equity or under
this Agreement.
8. LIQUIDATED DAMAGES
There are no liquidated damages under this Agreement.
9. OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS
Consultant shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to sales,
costs, expenses, receipts, and other such information required by City that relate to the
performance of services under this Agreement. Consultant shall maintain adequate
16
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 4 of 16
records of services provided in sufficient detail to permit an evaluation of services. All
such records shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles and shall be clearly identified and readily accessible. Consultant shall provide
free access to the representatives of City or the City’s designees at reasonable times to
such books and records; shall give the City the right to examine and audit said books and
records; shall permit City to make transcripts therefrom as necessary; and shall allow
inspection of all work, data, documents, proceedings, and activities related to this
Agreement. Notification of audit shall be provided at least thirty (30) days before any such
audit is conducted. Such records, together with supporting documents, shall be
maintained for a period of three (3) years after receipt of final payment.
Upon completion of, or in the event of termination or suspension without cause of
this Agreement, all original documents, designs, drawings, maps, models, computer files,
surveys, notes, and other documents prepared in the course of providing the services to
be performed pursuant to this Agreement shall become the sole property of the City and
may be used, reused, or otherwise disposed of by the City without the permission of the
Consultant. With respect to computer files, Consultant shall make available to the City,
at the Consultant’s office and upon reasonable written request by the City, the necessary
computer software and hardware for purposes of accessing, compiling, transferring, and
printing computer files.
10. INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS
Indemnity for professional liability: When the law establishes a professional
standard of care for Consultant’s Services, to the fullest extent permitted by law,
Consultant shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless City and any and all of its
officials, employees, and agents (“Indemnified Parties”) from and against any and all
losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses, including legal counsel’s fees and costs
to the extent same are caused in whole or in part by any negligent or wrongful act, error
or omission of Consultant, its officers, agents, employees and/or subconsultants (or any
agency or individual that Consultant shall bear the legal liability thereof) in the
performance of professional services under this Agreement.
Indemnity for other than professional liability: Other than in the performance of
professional services and to the full extent permitted by law, Consultant shall indemnify,
protect, defend and hold harmless City, and any and all of its officials, employees, and
agents from and against any liability (including liability for claims, suits, actions, arbitration
proceedings, administrative proceedings, regulatory proceedings, losses, expenses or
costs of any kind, whether actual, alleged or threatened, including legal counsels’ fees
and costs, court costs, interest, defense costs, and expert witness fees), where the same
arise out of, are a consequence of, or are in any way attributable to, in whole or in part,
the performance of this Agreement by Consultant or by any individual or agency for which
Consultant is legally liable, including but not limited to officers, agents, employees or
subconsultants of Consultant.
Consultant agrees to obtain executed indemnity agreements with provisions
identical to those set forth here in this Section from each and every subconsultant, or any
other person or entity involved by, for, with, or on behalf of Consultant in the performance
17
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 5 of 16
of this Agreement. In the event Consultant fails to obtain such indemnity obligations from
others as required here, Consultant agrees to be fully responsible according to the terms
of this Section. Failure of City to monitor compliance with these requirements imposes no
additional obligations on City and will in no way act as a waiver of any rights hereunder.
This obligation to indemnify and defend City as set forth here is binding on the successors,
assigns, or heirs of Consultant and shall survive the termination of this Agreement or this
Section.
City does not and shall not waive any rights that it may have against Consultant by
reason of this Section, because of the acceptance by City, or the deposit with City, of any
insurance policy or certificate required pursuant to this Agreement. The hold harmless
and indemnification provisions shall apply regardless of whether or not said insurance
policies are determined to be applicable to any losses, liabilities, damages, costs, and
expenses described in this Section.
11. INSURANCE
Consultant shall maintain prior to the beginning of and for the duration of this
Agreement insurance coverage as specified in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated
herein by this reference as though set forth in full.
12. INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT
Consultant is and shall at all times remain as to the City a wholly independent
Contractor. The personnel performing the services under this Agreement on behalf of
Consultant shall at all times be under Consultant’s exclusive direction and control. Neither
City nor any of its officers, employees, or volunteers shall have control over the conduct
of Consultant or any of Consultant’s officers, employees, or agents, except as set forth in
this Agreement. Consultant shall not at any time or in any manner represent that it or any
of its officers, employees, or agents are in any manner officers or employees, volunteers
or agents of the City except as set forth in this Agreement. Consultant shall not incur or
have the power to incur any debt, obligation, or liability against City, or bind City in any
manner.
No employee benefits shall be available to Consultant in connection with the
performance of this Agreement. Except for the fees paid to Consultant as provided in the
Agreement, City shall not pay salaries, wages, or other compensation to Consultant for
performing services hereunder for City. City shall not be liable for compensation or
indemnification to Consultant for injury or sickness arising out of performing services
hereunder.
13. LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES
The Consultant shall keep itself informed of local, state, and federal laws and
regulations which in any manner affect those employed by it or in any way affect the
performance of its service pursuant to this Agreement. The Consultant shall at all times
observe and comply with all such laws and regulations, including but not limited to the
Americans with Disabilities Act and Occupational Safety and Health Administration laws
18
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 6 of 16
and regulations. The Consultant shall comply with and sign Exhibit B, the Scope of Work
Requirement for Professional Services Agreements Compliance with California
Government Code Section 7550, when applicable. The City, and its officers and
employees, shall not be liable at law or in equity occasioned by failure of the Consultant
to comply with this Section.
Should the Scope of Services include work that is considered a public work to
which prevailing wages apply, the public work project is subject to compliance monitoring
and enforcement by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). Consultant
agrees to comply with and be bound by all applicable terms, rules and regulations
described in (a) Division 2, Part 7, Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 1720) of the
California Labor Code, including without limitation Labor Code Section 1771 and (b) the
rules and regulations established by the DIR implementing such statutes, as though set
forth in full herein, including any applicable amendments made thereto during the term of
this Agreement. For every subcontractor who will perform work on this project, Consultant
shall be responsible for subcontractor’s compliance with (a) and (b), and Consultant shall
take all necessary actions to ensure subcontractor’s compliance. Labor Code Section
1725.5 requires all contractors and subcontractors to annually register with the DIR before
bidding or performing on any public work contract.
14. ANTI DISCRIMINATION
Neither the Consultant, nor any subconsultant and/or subcontractor under the
Consultant, shall discriminate in employment of persons upon the work because of race,
religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability,
medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity,
gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status; or any other
basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, except as provided in Section
12940 of the Government Code. Consultant shall have responsibility for compliance with
this Section.
15. UNDUE INFLUENCE
Consultant declares and warrants that no undue influence or pressure is used
against or in concert with any officer or employee of the City in connection with the award,
terms, or implementation of this Agreement, including any method of coercion,
confidential financial arrangement, or financial inducement. No officer or employee of the
City will receive compensation, directly or indirectly from Consultant, or any officer,
employee, or agent of Consultant, in connection with the award of this Agreement or any
work to be conducted as a result of this Agreement. Violation of this Section shall be a
material breach of this Agreement entitling the City to any and all remedies at law or in
equity.
16. NO BENEFIT TO ARISE TO LOCAL EMPLOYEES
No member, officer, or employee of the City, or their designees or agents, and no
public official who exercises authority over or responsibilities with respect to the Services
during his/her tenure or for one (1) year thereafter, shall have any interest, direct or
19
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 7 of 16
indirect, in any agreement or sub-agreement, or the proceeds thereof, for work to be
performed in connection with the Services performed under this Agreement.
17. CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Consultant covenants that neither they nor any officer or principal of their firm have
any interests, nor shall they acquire any interest, directly or indirectly, which will conflict
in any manner or degree with the performance of their services hereunder. Consultant
further covenants that in the performance of this Agreement, they shall employ no person
having such interest as an officer, employee, agent, subconsultant, or subcontractor.
Consultant further covenants that Consultant has not contracted with nor is performing
any services directly or indirectly, with the developer(s) and/or property owner(s) and/or
firm(s) and/or partnership(s) and/or public agency(ies) owning property and/or processing
an entitlement application for property in the City or its Area of Interest, now or within the
past one (1) year, and further covenants and agrees that Consultant and/or its
subconsultants shall provide no service or enter into any contract with any developer(s)
and/or property owner(s) and/or firm(s) and/or partnership(s) and/or public agency(ies)
owning property and/or processing an entitlement application for property in the City or
its Area of Interest, while under contract with the City and for a one (1) year time period
following termination of this Agreement.
18. NOTICE
Any notice to be given pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing, and all such
notices and any other document to be delivered shall be delivered by personal service or
by deposit in the United States mail, certified or registered, return receipt requested, with
postage prepaid, and addressed to the party for whom intended as follows:
To: City Manager
City of Moorpark
323 Science Drive
Moorpark, CA 93021
To: John W. Bliss, President
SCI Consulting Group
4745 Mangels Blvd.
Fairfield, CA 94534
Either party may, from time to time, by written notice to the other, designate a
different address or contact person, which shall be substituted for the one above
specified. Notices, payments and other documents shall be deemed delivered upon
receipt by personal service or as of the third (3rd) day after deposit in the United States
mail.
20
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 8 of 16
19. CHANGE IN NAME
Should a change be contemplated in the name or nature of the Consultant's legal
entity, the Consultant shall first notify the City in order that proper steps may be taken to
have the change reflected in the Agreement documents.
20. ASSIGNMENT
Consultant shall not assign this Agreement or any of the rights, duties, or
obligations hereunder. It is understood and acknowledged by the parties that Consultant
is uniquely qualified to perform the services provided for in this Agreement.
21. LICENSES
At all times during the term of this Agreement, Consultant shall have in full force
and effect, all licenses required of it by law for the performance of the services in this
Agreement.
22. VENUE AND GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement is made, entered into, and executed in Ventura County, California,
and any action filed in any court or for arbitration for the interpretation, enforcement or
other action of the terms, conditions, or covenants referred to herein shall be filed in the
applicable court in Ventura County, California. The City and Consultant understand and
agree that the laws of the state of California shall govern the rights, obligations, duties,
and liabilities of the parties to this Agreement and also govern the interpretation of this
Agreement.
23. COST RECOVERY
In the event any action, suit or proceeding is brought for the enforcement of, or the
declaration of any right or obligation pursuant to this Agreement or as a result of any
alleged breach of any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
recover its costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees, from the losing party, and any
judgment or decree rendered in such a proceeding shall include an award thereof.
24. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement and the Exhibits attached hereto contain the entire understanding
between the parties relating to the obligations of the parties described in this Agreement.
All prior or contemporaneous agreements, understandings, representations, and
statements, oral or written, are merged into this Agreement and shall be of no further
force or effect. Each party is entering into this Agreement based solely upon the
representations set forth herein and upon each party’s own independent investigation of
any and all facts such party deems material.
21
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 9 of 16
25. CAPTIONS OR HEADINGS
The captions and headings of the various Articles, Paragraphs, and Exhibits of this
Agreement are for convenience and identification only and shall not be deemed to limit
or define the content of the respective Articles, Paragraphs, and Exhibits hereof.
26. AMENDMENTS
Any amendment, modification, or variation from the terms of this Agreement shall
be in writing and shall be effective only upon approval by both parties to this Agreement.
27. PRECEDENCE
In the event of conflict, the requirements of the City’s Request for Proposal, if any,
and this Agreement shall take precedence over those contained in the Consultant’s
Proposal.
28. INTERPRETATION OF AGREEMENT
Should interpretation of this Agreement, or any portion thereof, be necessary, it is
deemed that this Agreement was prepared by the parties jointly and equally, and shall
not be interpreted against either party on the ground that the party prepared the
Agreement or caused it to be prepared.
29. WAIVER
No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed, or shall constitute,
a waiver of any other provision, whether or not similar, nor shall any such waiver constitute
a continuing or subsequent waiver of the same provision. No waiver shall be binding
unless executed in writing by the party making the waiver.
30. AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE
The person or persons executing this Agreement on behalf of the Consultant
warrants and represents that he/she has the authority to execute this Agreement on
behalf of the Consultant and has the authority to bind Consultant to the performance of
obligations hereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed the day and year first above written.
CITY OF MOORPARK SCI Consulting Group
__________________________________ __________________________________
PJ Gagajena, City Manager John W. Bliss, President
22
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 10 of 16
Attest:
__________________________________
Ky Spangler, City Clerk
23
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 11 of 16
Exhibit A
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Prior to the beginning of and throughout the duration of Work, Consultant will maintain
insurance in conformance with the requirements set forth below. Consultant will use
existing coverage to comply with these requirements. If that existing coverage does not
meet requirements set forth here, Consultant agrees to amend, supplement, or endorse
the existing coverage to do so. Consultant acknowledges that the insurance coverage
and policy limits set forth in this section constitute the minimum amount of coverage
required. Any insurance proceeds available to the City in excess of the limits and
coverage required in this Agreement and which is applicable to a given loss, will be
available to the City.
Consultant shall provide the following types and amounts of insurance:
Type of Insurance Limits
Commercial General Liability $1,000,000 / $2,000,000 Aggregate
Business Automobile Liability $1,000,000
Workers’ Compensation Statutory Requirements
Professional Liability $1,000,000
Insurance Rating. Insurance procured pursuant to these requirements shall be written by
insurers that are authorized carriers in the State of California and with an A.M. Best rating
of A- or better and a minimum financial size category class VII.
Commercial General Liability Insurance using Insurance Services Office (ISO)
“Commercial General Liability” policy form CG 00 01 or the exact equivalent. Defense
costs must be paid in addition to limits. There shall be no cross liability exclusion for claims
or suits by one insured against another. Limits are subject to review but in no event less
than $1,000,000 per occurrence for all covered losses and no less than $2,000,000
general aggregate, for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage.
Business Automobile Insurance coverage on ISO Business Auto Coverage form CA
00 01 including symbol 1 (Any Auto) or the exact equivalent. Limits are subject to review,
but in no event to be less than $1,000,000 combined single limit per accident. If
Consultant owns no vehicles, this requirement may be satisfied by a non-owned auto
endorsement to the general liability policy described above. If Consultant or Consultant’s
employees will use personal autos in any way on this project, Consultant shall provide
evidence of personal auto liability for each such person.
Workers’ Compensation on a state-approved policy form providing statutory benefits as
required by law with employer’s liability limits no less than $1,000,000 per accident or
disease. Consultant shall submit to Agency, along with the certificate of insurance, a
24
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 12 of 16
Waiver of Subrogation endorsement in favor of Agency, its officers, agents,
employees, and volunteers.
Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions) Insurance as appropriate shall be
written on a policy form coverage specifically designed to protect against acts, errors or
omissions of the Consultant and “Covered Professional Services” as designated in the
policy must specifically include work performed under this Agreement. The policy limit
shall be no less than $1,000,000 per claim and in the aggregate. The policy must “pay on
behalf of” the insured and must include a provision establishing the insurer’s duty to
defend. The policy retroactive date shall be on or before the effective date of this
Agreement.
Excess or Umbrella Liability Insurance (Over Primary) if used to meet limit
requirements, shall provide coverage at least as broad as specified for the underlying
coverages. Coverage shall be provided on a “pay on behalf” basis, with defense costs
payable in addition to policy limits. Policy shall contain a provision obligating insurer at
the time insured’s liability is determined, not requiring actual payment by the insured first.
There shall be no cross liability exclusion precluding coverage for claims or suits by one
insured against another. Coverage shall be applicable to the City for injury to employees
of Consultant, subconsultants, or others involved in the Work. The scope of coverage
provided is subject to approval by the City following receipt of proof of insurance as
required herein. Limits are subject to review but in no event less than $2,000,000
aggregate.
General conditions pertaining to provision of insurance coverage by Consultant.
Consultant and the City agree to the following with respect to insurance provided by
Consultant:
1. Consultant agrees to have its insurer endorse the third party general liability
coverage required herein to include as additional insureds the City, its officials,
employees, and volunteers, using standard ISO endorsement CG 2010 and CG
2037, or equivalent, with edition acceptable to the City. Consultant also agrees to
require all subconsultants and/or subcontractors to do likewise.
2. All insurance coverage maintained or procured pursuant to this agreement shall
be endorsed to waive subrogation against the City, its elected or appointed
officers, agents, officials, employees, and volunteers or shall specifically allow
subconsultants and/or Contractors or others providing insurance evidence in
compliance with these specifications to waive their right of recovery prior to a loss.
Contractor hereby waives its own right of recovery against the City and shall
require similar written express waivers and insurance clauses from each of its
subconsultants and/or subcontractors. Consultant shall submit to City, along with
the certificate of insurance, a waiver of subrogation endorsement in favor of
City, its officers, agents, employees, and volunteers.
3. All insurance coverage and limits provided by Consultant and available or
applicable to this Agreement are intended to apply to the full extent of the policies.
25
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 13 of 16
Nothing contained in this Agreement or any other agreement relating to the City or
its operation limits the application of such insurance coverage.
4. None of the coverages required herein will be in compliance with these
requirements if they include limiting endorsement of any kind that has not been
first submitted to the City and approved in writing.
5. No liability policy shall contain any provision or definition that would serve to
eliminate so-called “third party action over” claims, including any exclusion for
bodily injury to an employee of the insured or of any subconsultant and/or
subcontractor.
6. All coverage types and limits required are subject to approval, modification, and
additional requirements by the City, as the need arises. Consultant shall not make
any reductions in scope of coverage (e.g., elimination of contractual liability or
reduction of discovery period) that may affect the City’s protection without the
City’s prior written consent.
7. Proof of compliance with these insurance requirements, consisting of certificates
of insurance evidencing all of the coverages required and an additional insured
endorsement to Consultant’s general liability policy, shall be delivered to city at or
prior to the execution of this Agreement. In the event such proof of any insurance
is not delivered as required, or in the event such insurance is canceled or reduced
at any time and no replacement coverage is provided, the City has the right, but
not the duty, to obtain any insurance it deems necessary to protect its interests
under this or any other Agreement and to pay the premium. Any premium so paid
by the City shall be charged to and promptly paid by Consultant or deducted from
sums due Consultant, at the City’s option.
8. Certificate(s) are to reflect that the insurer will provide thirty (30) days notice to the
City of any cancellation or reduction of coverage. Consultant agrees to require its
insurer to modify such certificates to delete any exculpatory wording stating that
failure of the insurer to mail written notice of cancellation or reduction of coverage
imposes no obligation, or that any party will “endeavor” (as opposed to being
required) to comply with the requirements of the certificate.
9. Coverage provided by Consultant shall be primary and non-contributory and
any insurance of self-insurance procured or maintained by the City shall not be
required to contribute with it. The limits of insurance required herein may be
satisfied by a combination of primary and umbrella or excess insurance. Any
umbrella or excess insurance shall contain or be endorsed to contain a provision
that such coverage shall also apply on a primary and non-contributory basis for
the benefit of City before the City’s own insurance or self- insurance shall be called
upon to protect it as a named insured. Consultant shall submit to City, along with
the certificate of insurance, a primary and non-contributory endorsement in
favor of City, its officers, agents, employees, and volunteers.
26
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 14 of 16
10. Consultant agrees to ensure that subconsultants and/or subcontractors, and any
other party involved with the Work who is brought onto or involved in the Work by
Consultant, provide the same minimum insurance required of Consultant.
Consultant agrees to monitor and review all such coverage and assumes all
responsibility for ensuring that such coverage is provided in conformity with the
requirements of this section. Consultant agrees that upon request, all agreements
with subconsultants and/or subcontractors and others engaged in the Work will be
submitted to the City for review.
11. Consultant agrees not to self-insure or to use any self-insured retentions or
deductibles on any portion of the insurance required herein and further agrees that
it will not allow any subconsultant, subcontractor, Architect, Engineer, or other
entity or person in any way involved in the performance of Work contemplated by
this Agreement to self-insure its obligations to the City. If Consultant’s existing
coverage includes a deductible or self-insured retention, the deductible or self-
insured retention must be declared to the City. At that time, the City shall review
options with the Consultant, which may include reduction or elimination of the
deductible or self-insured retention, substitution of other coverage, or other
solutions.
12. The City reserves the right at any time during the term of the Agreement to change
the amounts and types of insurance required by giving the Consultant thirty (30)
days advance written notice of such change. If such change results in substantial
additional cost to the Consultant, the City will negotiate additional compensation
proportional to the increased benefit to the City.
13. For purposes of applying insurance coverage only, this Agreement will be deemed
to have been executed immediately upon any party hereto taking any steps that
can be deemed to be in furtherance of or towards performance of this Agreement.
14. Consultant acknowledges and agrees that any actual or alleged failure on the part
of the City to inform Consultant of non-compliance with an insurance requirement
in no way imposes any additional obligations to the City nor does it waive any rights
hereunder in this or any other regard.
15. Consultant will renew the required coverage annually as long as the City, or its
employees or agents face an exposure from operations of any type pursuant to
this Agreement. This obligation applies whether or not the Agreement is canceled
or terminated for any reason. Termination of this obligation is not effective until the
City executes a written statement to that effect.
16. Consultant shall provide proof that policies of insurance required herein expiring
during the term of this Agreement have been renewed or replaced with other
policies providing at least the same coverage. Proof that such coverage has been
ordered shall be submitted prior to expiration. A coverage binder or letter from
Consultant’s insurance agent to this effect is acceptable. A certificate of insurance
and/or additional insured endorsement as required in these specifications
27
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 15 of 16
applicable to the renewing or new coverage must be provided to the City within
five days of the expiration of coverage.
17. The provisions of any Workers’ Compensation or similar act will not limit the
obligations of Consultant under this Agreement. Consultant expressly agrees not
to use any statutory immunity defenses under such laws with respect to the City,
its employees, officials and volunteers.
18. Requirements of specific coverage features or limits contained in this section are
not intended as limitations on coverage, limits, or other requirements nor as a
waiver of any coverage normally provided by any given policy. Specific reference
to a given coverage feature is for purposes of clarification only as it pertains to a
given issue, and is not intended by any party or insured to be limiting or all-
inclusive.
19. These insurance requirements are intended to be separate and distinct from any
other provision in this Agreement and are intended by the parties here to be
interpreted as such.
20. The requirements in this section supersede all other sections and provisions of this
Agreement to the extent that any other section or provision conflicts or impairs the
provisions of this section.
21. Consultant agrees to be responsible for ensuring that no contract used by any
party involved in any way with the Work reserves the right to charge the City or
Consultant for the cost of additional insurance coverage required by this
Agreement. Any such provisions are to be deleted with reference to the City. It is
not the intent of the City to reimburse any third party for the cost of complying with
these requirements. There shall be no recourse against the City for payment of
premiums or other amounts with respect thereto.
22. Consultant agrees to provide immediate notice to City of any claim or loss against
Consultant arising out of the work performed under this Agreement. The City
assumes no obligation or liability by such notice, but has the right (but not the duty)
to monitor the handling of any such claim or claims if they are likely to involve the
City.
28
Rev. 03/10/2025 Page 16 of 16
Exhibit B
CITY OF MOORPARK
Scope of Work Requirement for Professional Services Agreements
Compliance with California Government Code § 7550
Consultant shall sign and include this page in any document or written reports prepared by
Consultant for the City of Moorpark (City) to which California Government Code § 7550
(Government Code § 7550) applies. Government Code §7550 reads:
“(a) Any document or written report prepared for or under the direction of a state
or local agency, that is prepared in whole or in part by nonemployees of the
agency, shall contain the numbers and dollar amounts of all contracts and
subcontracts relating to the preparation of the document or written report; if the
total cost for the work performed by nonemployees of the agency exceeds five
thousand dollars ($5,000). The contract and subcontract numbers and dollar
amounts shall be contained in a separate section of the document or written report.
(b) When multiple documents or written reports are the subject or product of the
contract, the disclosure section may also contain a statement indicating that the
total contract amount represents compensation for multiple documents or written
reports.”
For all Professional Services Agreement with a total dollar value in excess of $5,000, a signed
and completed copy of this form must be attached to all documents or completed reports
submitted to the City pursuant to the Scope of Work.
Does the dollar value of this Professional Services Agreement exceed $5,000?
X Yes No
If yes, then the following information must be provided in compliance with
Government Code § 7550:
1. Dollar amount of Agreement/Contract: $ 170,951
2. Dollar amount of Subcontract: $
3. Does the total contract amount represent compensation for multiple
documents or written reports? Yes No
I have read the foregoing Code section and will comply with Government Code §7550.
__________________________________
______________________
Signature, Title Date
29
September 22, 2025
Submitted to:
City of Moorpark
John Bliss, President
SCI Consulting Group
9/22/2025
Proposal for Park Maintenance
Revenue Enhancement Measure
EXHIBIT C
30
Monday, September 22, 2025
Submitted via Email
jsandifer@moorparkca.gov
Jessica Sandifer, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director
City of Moorpark
323 Science Drive
Moorpark, CA 93021
Re: Proposal for Consulting Services for Parks Maintenance Assessment District Revenue
Enhancement Measures
Dear Ms. Sandifer,
SCIConsultingGroup (“SCI”) is pleased to submit this proposal to assist the City of Moorpark
(“City”) with the evaluation, planning, and potential implementation of a revenue enhancement
measure to support the City’s Parks & Recreation Maintenance & Improvement District. We
understand the City is seeking a qualified and experienced consulting firm to provide assessment
engineering, public opinion research, and comprehensive ballot measure support services to
evaluate options for increasing revenues—either through an increased assessment within the
existing District or a new citywide special tax.
SCI has extensive experience delivering Proposition 218-compliant
assessment engineering and special tax election services for
municipalities across California. We have successfully completed
numerous similar projects for park maintenance funding and are
well-versed in the procedural, legal, and technical requirements
associated with revenue enhancement measures. Our team is
prepared to provide the City with the objective analysis, strategic guidance, and technical execution
needed to move forward with a transparent and defensible local funding process.
Our approach follows the two-phase structure outlined in the RFQ/P. Phase 1 will include a
comprehensive feasibility analysis of both assessment and special tax options, grounded in
technical data and community context, followed by a public opinion survey to test support levels
and guide Council decision-making. Phase 2 will include the preparation of the Engineer’s Report,
coordination of Proposition 218 or special tax election proceedings, and delivery of related public
information services aligned with the City’s direction following the survey.
SCI will draw from the preliminary findings developed in the first task to help the City determine a
sound and supportable path forward, whether that involves increasing the existing assessment or
pursuing a special tax. Should the City Council choose to proceed, we will finalize the tax or
assessment structure, prepare all necessary documentation, and coordinate with the County and
City Clerk to ensure a legally compliant and timely process.
31
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup
We have reviewed the City’s RFQ/P in detail and confirm that our scope of services and fee structure
are aligned with the requirements provided. We look forward to the opportunity to support the City
on this important initiative and are available to begin work immediately upon notice to proceed.
We look forward to the opportunity to assist the City with this important project and stand ready to
proceed. Please get in touch with me if you would like to discuss any aspect of our proposal. I can
be reached at (707) 430-4300 or john.bliss@sci-cg.com.
Sincerely,
cc: Jeremy Laurentowski, City of Moorpark
Jeanette Hynson, SCI Consulting Group
Blair Aas, SCI Consulting Group
32
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup
TABLE OF CONTENTS
B. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS .................................................................................................... 1
C. KEY STAFF ................................................................................................................................. 4
D. PROJECT SPECIFIC APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ....................................................... 5
TASK 1.1: INITIAL RESEARCH, PLANNING, AND FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS .................................................................. 5
TASK 1.2: CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION OF THE RECOMMENDED REVENUE ENHANCEMENT MEASURE . 5
TASK 1.3: PUBLIC OPINION RESEARCH AND MAILED SURVEY ............................................................................... 5
TASK 1.4: CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION OF THE RESULTS OF THE PUBLIC OPINION RESEARCH AND
SURVEY ............................................................................................................................................................................. 6
TASK 2.1: ASSESSMENT ENGINEERING AND ENGINEER’S REPORT ........................................................................ 6
TASK 2.2: PROPOSITION 218 ASSESSMENT BALLOTING SERVICES ........................................................................ 7
TASK 2.3: SPECIAL TAX ELECTION SERVICES .............................................................................................................. 8
TASK 2.4 NON-ADVOCACY INFORMATIONAL OUTREACH SERVICES ...................................................................... 9
E. REFERENCE ............................................................................................................................... 9
F. COST AND FEE STRUCTURE .................................................................................................... 10
APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................. 10
APPENDIX A – KEY STAFF RESUMES .......................................................................................................................... 11
APPENDIX B – REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................................... 15
APPENDIX C – SAMPLE WORK PRODUCT ................................................................................................................. 17
33
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 1
Established in 1985, SCIConsultingGroup (“SCI”) is a widely recognized public finance
consulting firm with leading expertise in assisting public agencies in California to fund new
services and improvements. SCI has an impressive success rate of about 90% for local funding
measures, having facilitated over 200 successful initiatives across entire cities, counties, and
special districts. Remarkably, SCI has formed more successful agency-wide post-Proposition
218 benefit assessments than all other assessment engineering firms in California combined.
Our firm also excels in navigating the legal and procedural requirements for forming Community
Facilities Districts, Benefit Assessment Districts, and other local financing mechanisms. We
annually administer over 1,000 special taxes, assessments, and fees for over 200 public agencies
statewide. This extensive expertise ensures that we meet your goals collaboratively, on schedule,
and within budget.
Furthermore, SCI possesses industry-leading knowledge of legal and procedural issues related to
benefit assessments, special taxes, and fees. Our principals are recognized experts in these areas
and contributed to the cleanup legislation for Proposition 218. Additionally, SCI frequently presents
and writes on assessment ballot proceedings for various California associations, sharing our
insights and expertise with many public agency professionals.
Our typical scope of services includes the following:
Local Funding Measure Feasibility Analysis: In this initial phase, SCI conducts planning,
preliminary financial analysis, and consults with their clients to assess the viability and feasibility of
a proposed local funding measure. We present various local funding solutions, outlining each
option’s financial, legal, and political opportunities and challenges. This phase helps public
agencies make informed decisions about whether to proceed with a public opinion survey to gauge
community support for the proposed special tax measure by identifying potential hurdles, risks, and
opportunities.
Public Opinion Research and Survey. SCI conducts unbiased and statistically accurate surveys to
measure community support for a proposed local funding measure. Our team analyzes survey data
to provide valuable insights and recommendations for decision-making, which is then used to design
an effective roadmap for a successful local funding measure.
Election-Related Services. Throughout the election process, SCI offers comprehensive support,
including ballot measure preparation and acting as a liaison with the election department. In the
case of benefit assessments, SCI manages the preparation of the Proposition 218 notice and ballot,
assisting in the ballot proceeding and ensuring compliance with all legal and procedural
requirements governing elections.
Formation Proceedings. In situations requiring the formation of financing districts, SCI guides
public agencies through the complex process of establishing Community Facilities Districts (CFDs),
Benefit Assessment Districts, and other local financing mechanisms. We assist in preparing
necessary documents, resolutions, and ordinances for the formation proceedings, ensuring a
smooth and legally compliant process.
B. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
34
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup
Non-Advocacy Information Outreach Services. Recognizing the importance of an informed vote,
SCI can help public agencies with information about proposed initiatives through information
outreach. We develop and assist in implementing non-advocacy materials, such as presentations,
handouts, and Q&A documents, to foster transparency and inform decision-making among voters.
Annual Levy Administration. Following the approval of a new special tax, assessment, or property-
related fee, SCI provides ongoing administration of the annual levies, taxes, and fees for public
agencies. Our team ensures compliance and accuracy in levy collection and distribution, offering
continued support throughout the administration process.
PARK AND RECREATION AGENCY CLIENTS (PARTIAL LIST) *
Arbuckle RPD
Arcade Creek RPD
Arden Park RPD
Auburn RPD
Bear River RPD
Cameron Park CSD
Carmichael RPD
City of Amador City
City of Angels
City of Belmont
City of Benicia
City of Colusa
City of Diamond Bar
City of Dixon
City of Folsom
City of Ione
City of Jackson
City of Lompoc
City of Los Alamitos
City of Menlo Park
City of Moorpark
City of Palmdale
City of Placentia
City of Placerville
City of Pleasant Hill
City of Plymouth
City of San Diego
City of Sutter Creek
City of Temple City
City of Vacaville
City of Watsonville
Chico Area RPD
Conejo RPD
Cordova RPD
Cosumnes CSD
County of Amador
County of Contra Costa
County of El Dorado
County of Placer
County of Sacramento
County of San Joaquin
County of Solano
County of Ventura
Durham RPD
Easton CSD
El Dorado Hills CSD
Fair Oaks RPD
Feather River RPD
Fulton-El Camino RPD
Garden Valley Ranch CSD
Georgetown Divide RD
Mission Oaks RPD
Monterey Peninsula Regional PD
Mtn. Rec. Conservation Auth.
North Highlands RPD
Orangevale RPD
Paradise RPD
Pleasant Hill RPD
Pleasant Valley RPD
Rancho Simi RPD
Rio Linda Elverta RPD
Santa Clara Valley OSA
Sunrise RPD
Truckee-Donner RPD
Twain Harte CSD
35
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 3
Since 1989, EMC Research (“EMC”) has been a national leader in opinion research, providing
custom solutions though genuine partnership. They give voice to communities and empower their
clients – public and private alike – with accurate data and insightful analysis. Their team of sought-
after experts is dedicated to delivering excellence and driven by a passion for impactful research.
EMC will conduct the survey for this project.
36
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 4
Subconsultant
Principle-In-Charge
SCI will use a “team approach” for this project and work closely and collaboratively with the City.
Such a collaborative, team-based approach helps ensure the City’s objectives are well understood
and accomplished, and all technical and procedural requirements are met.
If selected for this project, Edric Kwan, Senior Vice President, will serve as the engineer of record and
will prepare the Engineer’s Report with special and general benefit findings. Jeanette Hynson, Senior
Consultant, will be the project manager and the day-to-day contact. John Bliss, President, will serve
as Principal-in-charge and will assist with numerous aspects of the project. EMC Research
subconsultant to SCI, will handle the public opinion research and survey phase. Admail West
subconsultant to SCI, will handle the printing and mailing of the ballots.
The key staff are indicated in the organizational charge below, followed by brief professional
biographies in Appendix A.
C. KEY STAFF
37
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 5
Task 1.2: City Council Presentation of the Recommended Revenue
Enhancement Measure
Task 1.1: Initial Research, Planning, and Feasibility Analysis
Phase 1 services will begin with analyzing the
desired improvements and services, property
ownership, tax base, and demographic and
political profiles in the City. SCI performs these
services by collecting data from the City, the
County Assessor, and other information
sources. After this data has been compiled, SCI
will analyze it in context with the City’s goals and
other community factors. This detailed research
and analysis will provide SCI with a solid
understanding of the factors that will be used as
the foundation for designing and evaluating the proposed park assessment measure.
SCI will assist City staff with preparing the City
Council agenda report and presentation,
summarizing the findings of Task 1.1, and
providing a recommendation on which revenue
enhancement measure to pursue and other
details.
Task 1.3: Public Opinion Research and Survey
Recommended Research Approach. The recommended approach would be a phone survey. Under
this approach, a random sample of eligible participants (property owners and/or registered voters)
would be contacted using a mix of telephone, text message, and email and asked to complete the survey
in either English or Spanish. The mode of contact used for each selected participant would depend on
the contact information available, which could include email address, landline telephone, and/or cellular
telephone. Reminders to participate would be issued as needed to non-responsive properties by email,
text message, and telephone call. Any telephone calls to cellular telephones would be dialed by hand, in
accordance with applicable law prohibiting calling cellular phones with predictive dialers.
Sample Size. For this research project, EMC recommends a sample size of 400 respondents,
which would result in a margin of error of around 4.9 percentage points at the 95% confidence
interval.
D. PROJECT SPECIFIC APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
Draft agenda report (MS Word)
38
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 6
Task 1.4: City Council Presentation of the Results of the Public Opinion
Research and Survey
Once the survey responses are obtained, EMC will process them and prepare the data for analysis.
After the analysis, we will prepare a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation summarizing findings
from the opinion research and make recommendations regarding respondents’ priorities and the
feasibility of moving forward with a ballot measure to fund park maintenance.
The presentation will also include additional
value-added elements, such as an outline of the
recommended action plan for proceeding with a
local funding measure, including profiles of
likely supporters and opponents for a ballot
measure, priorities, funding support by type of
project, and key messaging elements and
strategies. In addition, the scope of services
includes a formal presentation of the survey
results, findings, and recommendations to the
City Council.
SCI will assist City staff in preparing the City
Council agenda report and presentation
summarizing the findings from Task 1.3. SCI will
also support staff during the Council meeting,
including presenting and responding to
questions as needed.
Task 2.1: Assessment Engineering and Engineer’s Report
If the Council decides to proceed with an assessment measure, SCI will begin work on developing
multi-year revenue and expense proformas in coordination with the City, which will serve as a
foundational component of the budgets and cost estimates included in the Engineer’s Report.
Building on the preliminary assessment work and findings from Task 1.1, SCI will conduct
Draft agenda report (MS Word)
39
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 7
comprehensive assessment engineering, including the development of a proportional assessment
rate methodology and the identification and quantification of special and general benefits
associated with the proposed improvements and services. SCI will use its industry-leading benefit
assessment engineering expertise to develop a benefit assessment methodology that fully complies
with the legal and procedural requirements for a new, post-Proposition 218 benefit assessment,
including the court’s direction in Silicon Valley Taxpayers Association v. Santa Clara County Open
Space Authority, Dahms v. City of Pomona, Greene v. Marin County Flood Control and Water
Conservation District and Robert Beutz v. County of Riverside and other Proposition 218 decisions.
In a review session, SCI will present these fiscal plans, their data review and analysis, and the
proposed assessment methodology, levies, and budgets to the City. Issues uncovered by the review
will be highlighted, and remedies suggested. After the City and the City’s legal counsel have reviewed
the data and information, SCI will prepare an Engineer’s Report that fully meets the requirements of
Articles XIIIC and XIIID of the California Constitution (“Proposition 218”), the Government Code and
other relevant code sections.
The Engineer’s Report will be prepared by Edric Kwan, P.E., and overseen by John Bliss, P.E., both
with extensive assessment engineering experience. The Engineer’s Report will include a detailed
description of the assessment plans for the improvements and services, future capital and facility
improvement needs, a detailed cost estimate, an analysis of special and general benefits, the
rationale used for the assessment apportionment, the method of assessment apportionment,
calculation of the specific proposed assessment amount for each parcel, an assessment diagram,
and other elements.
After the Engineer’s Report has been prepared, it will be reviewed with City staff and, if necessary,
should be revised to reflect any relevant comments or issues identified. SCI shall also finalize the
assessment levies, roll, diagram, and other
information for preliminary City approval. SCI will
also prepare draft resolutions, notices, and other
materials and documents required or
recommended for the proposed assessment.
Such documents shall be finalized in conjunction
with the City’s legal counsel. At the culmination of
these services, SCI shall present the findings,
proposed assessment levies, and Engineer’s
Report to the City staff and the City Council.
Task 2.2: Proposition 218 Assessment Balloting Services
Services under this Task would include designing, printing, addressing, and mailing the official
assessment notice and ballots to all property owners, which are the proposed boundaries of the
Assessment District. The official notice and assessment ballot design and supporting informational
items and mailers are essential to a successful ballot outcome. SCI will utilize its unmatched
expertise and track record to design a notice, ballot, and informational item that clearly and
concisely explains the reason for the park and trail services and improvements and meets all legal
requirements.
After the draft notice and ballot are prepared, they will be provided to City staff and the City Counsel
for review and comment. Feedback and comments will be incorporated before the documents are
Project Meeting (Virtual)
40
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 8
finalized. Once the official notice and ballot are finalized, SCI will oversee the printing and
addressing of the ballots. Admail West, a printing and mailing firm with industry-leading experience
with assessment ballot proceedings, will perform this work as a subconsultant to SCI. After the
notices and ballots are printed and addressed, they will be mailed to all property owners in the
proposed assessment district with a proposed assessment pursuant to the California Constitution
and the Government Code.
SCI will also field and respond to property owner inquiries throughout the balloting, research and
confirm new owners not reflected on the official county property ownership records, and issue
replacement ballots as necessary. SCI will also
prepare resolutions, documents, and
information for the public hearing and assist City
staff and legal counsel in responding to property
owner testimony at the public hearing.
The City Clerk would be the official tabulator,
with the legally required condition to perform the
tabulation publicly. SCI will provide tabulation
software, scanners, and procedures to support
the tabulation. SCI will employ its well-proven
barcoded ballot identification system on this
balloting, facilitating efficient and effective
tabulation.
Task 2.3: Special Tax Election Services
If the City Council decides to proceed with a special tax measure, SCI will build upon the preliminary
tax rate structure developed in Task 1.1 to finalize the tax structure. Working closely with City staff
and other stakeholders, SCI will prepare the Resolution of Consolidation ordering the election,
including the 75-word ballot question and the full text of the measure. This resolution will be
reviewed with City staff and legal counsel, with revisions incorporated as necessary. Once finalized,
SCI will forward the signed Resolution of Consolidation to the County and coordinate with the
County Registrar of Voters regarding the election timeline and ballot materials.
Should the measure be approved by voters, SCI will prepare the resolution accepting the election
results and order the levy of the special tax for
the first fiscal year. SCI will also assist City staff
and legal counsel in responding to voter
questions and comments at public meetings, as
needed.
The County Registrar of Voters provides
essential election services, including signature
verification and ballot tabulation. These
services are not included in SCI’s scope or fee
proposal; the City will need to coordinate
directly with the County regarding associated
costs.
Voter inquiry support
41
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 9
E. REFERENCE
Task 2.4 Non-Advocacy Informational Outreach Services
Effective informational outreach is essential for a successful ballot outcome. When voters are
properly informed about the purpose of a local funding measure, they are more likely to be
supportive. Misinformed or mistrusting voters tend to vote no, while well-informed voters tend to be
more supportive if they are adequately informed about a measure’s purpose.
Under California law, the City can engage in informational activities to educate the public about City-
related issues, including ballot measures. However, these activities must be strictly informational
and cannot be used for advocacy or to promote a particular outcome. This means that the
information provided must be factual and objective, presenting the funding measure’s pros and cons
without attempting to sway public opinion in a particular direction.
These services would begin with initial planning and developing a non-advocacy information
outreach strategy for the proposed park and trail assessment measure. The strategy would involve
defining informational needs and the target audience, developing an outreach plan and timeline, and
identifying key messaging and communication objectives. SCI would draft informational materials,
including presentations, handouts, and FAQ documents.
Additionally, SCI will utilize Local Input and other traditional media to inform property owners about
the details and purpose of the expanded assessment measure.
Local Input is
an SCI
platform that
facilitates
community engagement and fosters
collaboration between local government,
voters, and key stakeholders. Through this
customizable online platform, Local Input
enhances transparency, community
participation, and decision-making processes
at the local level. This enables voters to become
more informed, voice their opinions, contribute
ideas, and share feedback regarding the
proposed ballot measure.
A list of references for SCI are provided in Appendix B.
42
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 10
APPENDICES
The cost and SCI’s fee structure have been provided as a separate PDF document in accordance
with the RFP.
Appendix A – Key Staff Resumes
Appendix B – References
Appendix C – Sample Work Product
F. COST AND FEE STRUCTURE
43
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 11
Appendix A – Key Staff Resumes
Jeanette Hynson, Senior Consultant
Jeanette Hynson contributes over 25 years of experience in levy administration,
Proposition 218 Assessment District formation, and consulting services to the SCI
team. She specializes in impact fee justification studies, the creation and
administration of benefit assessments and community facilities districts, and public
opinion research projects. She is currently responsible for ensuring annual
assessment revenues of more than $78 million for prominent public agencies in California. In
addition, Jeanette is especially skilled in working with very large and complex data sets.
She also makes a significant contribution to SCI’s work with her expertise and extensive experience
in relational database management system maintenance and design. Jeanette has the ability to
“bridge the gap” between technical and non-technical people. Jeanette is a problem solver who
sees the big picture, pulls the right team together, and gets things done. She is known for finding
solutions that are faster, better, and more efficient.
John Bliss, P.E., Principal-in-Charge, President, License No. C52091
John Bliss, a professional engineer and President of SCI, specializes in fee and
assessment engineering, special and general benefit analysis, crafting legally
compliant, robust Engineer’s Reports, assessment administration, cost estimating and
budgeting, database design and implementation, regulatory compliance, and revenue
measure formations. He has 22 years of experience in this field of expertise. Moreover, John is a
recognized expert assessment engineer and Proposition 218 compliance specialist who has served
as an expert witness and technical City. He has also worked with most of the leading Proposition
218 specialized attorneys in the State, further expanding his professional and technical expertise.
During his tenure at SCI, John has served as the responsible Assessment Engineer on over 300 Fee
Studies and Engineer’s Reports for new or increased fees and assessments, comprising more post-
Proposition 218 new assessment engineering than any other assessment engineer in the State.
John graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and holds a
master’s degree in civil engineering from The University of California, Berkeley, where he was a
Regent’s Scholar. He is a licensed professional civil engineer in California and a LEED-accredited
professional.
Sara LaBatt, Senior Principal, EMC Research
Working out of the EMC Oakland office since 2002, Sara brings her can-do attitude to managing a wide
variety of EMC’s projects and client relationships. Sara is especially skilled at making difficult research
challenges seem easy. She tackles short timelines, complicated sampling plans and complex analysis
with ease, always maintaining a friendly, approachable customer-focused attitude.
44
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 12
Well-versed in a number of topic areas, Sara manages research for some of EMC’s largest ongoing
clients. Her expertise includes corporate brand studies, healthcare consumer research, social marketing,
transportation, and destination research.
Sara will be the lead account manager for this project and will oversee all phases of research and
methodology design, manage the internal team through the data collection process, and will be
available for meetings and presentations as needed to share her strategic insights with the project team.
Contact information
2001 Broadway, Suite 110, Oakland, CA 94612 | (510) 550-8924 | Sara@EMCresearch.com
Education
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science | 1997 | University of California, Berkeley
Relevant Experience
• Alameda County Flood Control District Prop 218 Feasibility Surveys
• Humboldt Number 1 Fire Protection District Prop 218 Feasibility Survey
• City of Mill Valley Revenue Measure Feasibility Surveys
• Pajaro Regional Flood Management Agency Prop 218 Feasibility Surveys
• City of Sacramento Parks and Recreation Community Priorities Survey
• City of San Ramon Revenue Measure Feasibility Surveys
• City of Scottsdale Parks and Recreation Community Priorities Survey
• City of Walnut Creek Revenue Measure Feasibility Surveys
• Various other revenue measure feasibility studies across the Bay Area and California
EMC Research, Subconsultant
EMC Research is a national full-service opinion research firm serving an extensive and diverse range
of public and private sector clients since 1989. We are known for crafting insightful research tools,
collecting highly accurate data and providing analysis that answers the key strategic questions and
challenges our clients face. EMC is proud be a certified women-owned business.
EMC Research combines years of practical experience with an in-depth academic understanding of
the science of research. We’ve learned that every step of the research process is important because
each step builds on the last. We start each project by working with you to clearly and completely
define your overall goals and how those goals can best be served by research.
45
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 13
EMC Research has over 30 years of experience conducting research on behalf of public agencies and
governments throughout California. Our dedicated Public Policy & Social Marketing strategy group is
comprised of a dedicated team of researchers whose primary expertise lies in public agency work.
We frequently design and execute research for local and statewide government agencies seeking to
improve, promote or expand services; behavior-focused studies supporting public awareness
campaigns for shifting the public’s attitudes and behaviors on various topics; community surveys for
agencies tracking customer satisfaction and priorities; and voter research to understand prevailing
opinions about government agencies, their services, and prospective funding options, including
Proposition 218 balloting efforts.
Working with local government agencies as they assess the feasibility of revenue enhancement
efforts is one of the mainstays of EMC Research’s work, and we have worked with a long list of
California cities, counties, school districts, parks and recreation departments, and other jurisdictions
in doing just this. We understand the challenges of public financing in California, as well as the
public’s often-conflicted views about tax and assessment increases and their potential benefits. We
also understand that public agencies need to communicate with their constituents on a wide array
of topics, and our research is often used to inform communications content and strategies.
Our work for public agencies focused around revenue generation and investigation of feasibility
includes many types of revenue efforts, including sales and parcel taxes, bond measures, utility user
taxes, transient occupancy taxes, and Proposition 218 benefit assessments. We know how to craft
research that can gain our clients insight into their community’s priorities, concerns, and openness
to supporting revenue efforts, helping our clients make data-informed decisions on whether and
how to proceed.
Our research has been critical for a number of California jurisdictions in bringing millions of dollars
of revenue for essential services like public safety, roads and transportation systems, public schools,
parks and open space, recreation programs, libraries, and other local services. Our research has also
been pivotal in shifting the public’s attitudes and behaviors with regard to topics ranging from waste
disposal, speeding, and bicycle riding to vaccination and water conservation; and supporting public
agencies as they seek to improve their constituents’ satisfaction with their services. Our experience
also includes navigating public contracting processes, presenting politically sensitive opinion
research in a public setting, dealing with media inquiries, and meeting open records requirements.
Many of our local and state government clients continue to return to EMC Research year after year
to help them keep in touch with the needs and priorities of their residents or customers.
When you hire EMC Research, you are bringing on a collaborative partner that will be committed to
helping you achieve your goals. We provide a unique combination of decades of experience paired
with the innovation required to solve the challenges that have faced the industry over time. By
embracing new tools and technologies as they develop, we have evolved with the industry's
demands, allowing us to thrive in our fourth decade of business.
Admail West, Subconsultant
SCI intends to print and mail the notices and assessment ballots through our
trusted supplier, Admail West, renowned for its extensive experience in
handling such tasks. Admail West has successfully managed the printing and
mailing over 7,000,000 assessment ballots for SCI, demonstrating their
reliability and expertise. Additionally, they oversee official election mail for multiple County
Elections departments. Amber Cox-Espejo will serve as the project manager for Admail West. For
46
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 14
further details about Admail West, please visit their website at: https://www.admailwest.com/.
47
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 15
Appendix B – References
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
21810 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
(909) 839-7044
Contact: Hal Ghafari, PE; Public Works Manager/Assistant City Engineer
Email: HGhafari@DiamondBarCA.Gov
In 2021, the City of Diamond Bar retained SCI to establish a new annual special assessment for
landscaping services in District 39. The City needed to increase revenue due to a 36-year-old
assessment rate of $236 that no longer met service demands. SCI provided assessment engineering
and Proposition 218 mailed balloting services, resulting in new assessment rates for three zones,
ranging from $466 to $504 per single-family residential unit. The balloting was successful, garnering
52.03% property owner support, and the new assessment now generates over $612,713 annually.
Additionally, SCI currently administers levy services for the City’s landscaping projects in Districts
38, 39, and 41.
CITY OF BERKELEY
City of Berkeley, Public Works Department
2180 Milvia Street, 3rd Floor
Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 981-6306
Contact: Sean O’Shea, Administrative & Fiscal Manager, Public Works Department
Email: soshea@cityofberkeley.info
The City of Berkeley formed a citywide street light assessment district in 1982 to fund the
maintenance and operation of streetlights. Due to static assessment rates and rising costs, the fund
required a subsidy from the City’s General Fund. To ensure financial sustainability, the SCI assisted
the City with assessment engineering and Proposition 218 ballot proceeding to establish a new
Street Lighting Assessment District. The measure was successful, and the new assessments were
added to the property tax roll starting in fiscal year 2019.
CITY OF WATSONVILLE
231 Union Street
Watsonville, CA 95076
(831) 768-3240
Contact: Nick Calubaquib, Parks and Community Services Director
Email: nick.calubaquib@cityofwatsonville.org
SCI is currently engaged with the City to provide assessment engineering, a Proposition 218-
compliant Engineer’s Report, and a Proposition 218 Ballot Proceeding to increase the current annual
assessment for their existing Vista Montaña Landscape and Lighting Maintenance Assessment
District. Assessment ballot results are pending.
48
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 16
Local References
Conejo Recreation and Park District
403 W. Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 9136
805-495-6471
Contact: James Friedl <jfriedl@crpd.org>
Contact: Andrew Mooney <amooney@crpd.org>
Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District
1605 E. Burnley Street
Camarillo, CA 93010
(805) 482-1996
Contact: Mary Otten <motten@pvrpd.org>
Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA)
570 West Avenue Twenty-Six, Suite 100
Los Angeles, CA 90065
(323) 221-9944
Contact: Dash Stolarz <dash.stolarz@mrca.ca.gov>
49
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 17
Appendix C – Sample Work Product
50
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 18
51
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept. 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 19
52
Park Maintenance Revenue Enhancement Measure Proposal, Sept 22, 2025 SCIConsultingGroup | 20
(This Page Intentionally Left Blank)
53
Monday, September 22, 2025
Submitted via Email
jsandifer@moorparkca.gov
Jessica Sandifer, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director
City of Moorpark
323 Science Drive
Moorpark, CA 93021
Re: Fee Proposal for Consulting Services for Parks Maintenance Assessment District Revenue
Enhancement Measures RFP
Dear Jessica:
In response to the City’s RFP, our fee proposal for Consulting Services for Parks Maintenance
Assessment District Revenue Enhancement Measures is provided herein. Our professional fees are
based on our understanding of the City’s needs and the level of effort we expect is necessary to
complete the Work Plan successfully.
Please let me know if you have any questions or require additional information regarding this fee
proposal.
Sincerely,
John W. Bliss, P.E., President
SCI Consulting Group
cc: Jeremy Laurentowski, City of Moorpark
Jeanette Hynson, SCI Consulting Group
Edric Kwan, SCI Consulting Group
Blair Aas, SCI Consulting Group
54
City of Moorpark
September 22, 2025
Page 2
F. COST AND FEE STRUCTURE
In consideration of the work accomplished, as outlined in the Work Plan, SCI shall be compensated as
detailed below. Our professional fees are based on our understanding of the District’s needs and the level
of effort we expect is necessary to complete the Work Plan successfully.
TASKS 1, 3 FEE
Task 1.1: Initial Planning and Preliminary Assessment/Tax Engineering $9,800 Fixed
Task 1.2: Council Presentation $2,600 Fixed
Task 1.3: Option 2: Public Opinion Research and Phone/Online Survey $41,910 Fixed
Task 1.4: Council Presentation $2,600 Fixed
Task 2.1: Assessment Engineering and Engineer’s Report $29,200 Fixed
Task 2.2: Proposition 218 Ballot Proceeding Services 5 $45,200 Fixed
Task 2.3: Special Tax Election Services $25,000 Fixed
Task 2.4: Non-Advocacy Informational Outreach Services $20,600 Fixed
Incidental Costs 2 $3,500 NTE
SUBTOTAL: FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS AND PHONE SURVEY $56,910
SUBTOTAL: OPTION 1 - PROPOSITION 218 ASSESSMENT MEASURE $95,000
SUBTOTAL: OPTION 2 - SPECIAL TAX MEASURE 4 $45,600
1 The Work Plan includes up to one in-person meeting each for Tasks 1.1, 1.4, 2.1, and 2.3, up to two
meetings for Task 2.2, and up to four meetings for Task 2.4. As necessary and at the discretion of
the City, SCI will attend additional in-person meetings at the in-person meeting rate of $2,600 per
consultant per meeting for the duration of the Work Plan. All other project meetings, stakeholder
outreach meetings, and presentations will be conducted remotely via video or voice conference.
Video and voice conferences are not considered in-person meetings in the Work Plan.
2 Customary incidental expenses, including travel, lodging, printing, postage, data, or other out‐of‐
pocket costs, shall be billed at actual cost plus 10% not to exceed $3,500 without prior authorization
from the City. Mileage expenses shall be billed at the IRS‐approved rate.
3 After completing each task, SCI shall submit an invoice for the work performed. Payments shall be
due and payable upon submitting an invoice for each completed task.
4 The estimate does not include fees that would be charged by the County Election Department for
the special tax election.
5 Fees include all direct costs associated printing, addressing, mailing, and postage for the mailed
survey and ballot proceeding.
55
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE FISCAL
YEAR 2025/26 BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $170,951.00
FROM THE GENERAL FUND (1000) FOR ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT REVENUE ENHANCEMENT CONSULTANT
SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the Operating and Capital Improvement
Budget for Fiscal Year 2025/26 on June 18, 2025; and
WHEREAS, a staff report has been presented to City Council requesting approval
of an agreement with SCI Consulting Group for Park Maintenance Assessment District
revenue enhancement measure consulting services; and
WHEREAS, a budget amendment is requested to fully fund the Assessment
District Revenue Enhancement Consulting Services in the amount of $170,951.00, from
the General Fund (1000); and
WHEREAS, Exhibit A hereof describes said budget amendment and its resultant
impact to the budget line items.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MOORPARK DOES
HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. A budget amendment in the amount of $170,951.00 from the General
Fund (1000), as more particularly described in Exhibit A, is hereby approved.
SECTION 2. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and shall
cause a certified resolution to be filed in the book of original resolutions.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of October, 2025.
________________________________
Chris R. Enegren, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Ky Spangler, City Clerk
Attachment: Exhibit A – Budget Amendment
ATTACHMENT 2
56
Resolution No. 2025-____
Page 2
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT REVENUE ENHANCEMENT
CONSULTING SERVICES
GENERAL FUND
FY 2025/26
FUND BALANCE
ALLOCATION:
Fund Title Fund-Account Number Amount
General Fund 1000-000-00000-33990 $ 170,951.00
Total $ 170,951.00
EXPENDITURE APPROPRIATION:
Account Number Current Budget Revision Amended Budget
1000.541.XXXXX.51000 $ - $ 170,951.00 $ 170,951.00
$ - $ - $ -
Total $ - $ 170,951.00 $ 170,951.00
57