Townsend Public Affairs'yjAAOq I 6q 2 M 0 1
Proposal for
Federal Legislation Lobbyist
Services
January 27, 2023
Tableof Contents.......................................................................................................................................1
1. Cover Letter............................................................................................................................ 2
Firm Background, Qualifications, and Experience............................................................3
2. References of Local Government Agencies............................................................................8
3. Complete Pricing List..............................................................................................................9
4. List of Complementary Services...........................................................................................10
5. Staffing and Project Organization.........................................................................................12
6. Subcontracting Services.......................................................................................................21
7. Disclosures............................................................................................................................22
8. Acknowledgement of Insurance Requirements.....................................................................23
9. Non -Collusion Affidavit..........................................................................................................24
10. Acknowledgement of Addenda.............................................................................................25
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 1
TIED
P U B L I C A F F A I R S
Es, TPA -911
January 27, 2023
Jeremy Griffin, Management Specialist
City of La Quinta
78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Dear Mr. Griffin:
Thank you for the opportunity for Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. ("TPA") to submit our proposal for
Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services to the City of La Quinta ("City").
Since its inception in 1998, TPA has earned the reputation as Champions for Better
Communities by providing the experience, resources, and relationships expected from a premier
legislative advocacy and grant writing firm while also giving clients the unique brand of customer
service they deserve: personal attention, maximum accessibility, and passion for their mission.
Our strategic approach to advocacy and funding is tailored to meet the individual needs of each
client by leveraging the breadth and depth of our team as well as our vast network of relationships
with key stakeholders and decision makers.
Utilizing this method on behalf of our clients, TPA has shepherded over 100 legislative and
regulatory proposals into law, and secured over $2.6 billion in grants from state, federal,
and local government agencies as well as nonprofit foundations and private companies.
Thank you again for your interest in our firm and your consideration of this proposal. TPA
acknowledges that all information and pricing provided within this proposal is valid for at least
ninety (90) days and affirms that all members of TPA who will perform work for the City are free
of any conflict of interest. Please contact Olivia Raymond, Business Development Associate, at
ORaymond@TownsendPA.com, (949) 399-9050 or 1401 Dove St., Ste 330, Newport Beach, CA
92660 if you have any questions or need additional information. We would be honored to serve
the City of La Quinta.
Yours truly,
04;7�-,
Christopher Townsend (Authorized to Bind the Firm)
President
600 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Suite 207
Washington, DC 20003 (Primary Office for the Proposed Project)
N.J Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services ICit of La Quinta Page 2
TPA is a federal legislative advocacy and grant writing firm that provides lobbying and funding
services to public agencies and nonprofit organizations throughout California. Founded by
Christopher Townsend in 1998, TPA has helped shepherd over 100 client -sponsored legislative
proposals into law and has secured over $2.6 billion in state, federal, and local government
funding for TPA clients. With 15 registered federal lobbyists and grant writers, TPA has the firm
capacity, policy expertise, and legislative experience to secure significant success for the City.
(a) Number of Years in Business: 24 Years (Founded in 1998)
(b) Taxpayer Identification Number: 91-1929265
(c) Number of Years Performing Federal Lobbyist Services: 15 Years
(d) Resumes: Resumes of the Project Manager and key personnel who will be responsible
for performance of the work outlined in the RFP can be found under the "Staffing and
Project Organization" section of this proposal beginning on page 12.
(e) Firm Ownership: Christopher Townsend, President & Founder
Type of Firm: California Corporation (Incorporated in 1998)
(f) TPA is NOT a subsidiary of a parent company.
(g) Statement of Qualifications:
TPA has raised the bar amongst federal advocacy firms with a California focus. More California
public agencies have retained TPA to represent them in Washington, DC than any other advocacy
firm, a testament to our expertise and extensive success in the federal arena. In addition to our
office in Washington, DC, TPA has four offices strategically located across the state. Our active
presence in Washington, DC and Sacramento positions TPA perfectly to achieve results which
other firms simply cannot.
Through years of hard work and a focus on customer service, TPA has built a strong reputation
in Washington, DC, and in Sacramento as effective legislative advocates on behalf of local public
agencies and nonprofit organizations. TPA works hand-in-hand with clients to develop and
promote new legislative proposals that advance priorities and solve issues facing clients. TPA will
monitor, analyze, and prioritize legislation, as well as develop a legislative strategy that is
specifically tailored to the City and its members. TPA has been successful with shepherding
dozens of client -sponsored pieces of legislation into law under different administrations including:
Presidents Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden, as well as with the Gubernatorial
Administrations including Gray, Schwarzenegger, Brown, and Newsom. Additionally, TPA
protects clients against harmful legislation by working to defeat bills or crafting solutions to fix
errant proposals.
Since our founding, TPA has secured over $2.6 billion in public funding for client projects in the
areas of transportation, water and wastewater, housing and development, parks and recreation,
public safety, education, and cultural resources. TPA works with its clients through every step of
the funding process, starting as early as the creation of relevant funding opportunities through
legislative, budget and bond proposals. TPA then works to influence any legislative and regulatory
processes in place to distribute and award funds. In partnership with clients, TPA assists with the
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 3
development of grant applications and shepherds them through the agency review process,
advocating aggressively to get applications funded.
(h) Project Understanding and Approach
TPA brings a customized and focused customer service from senior project managers based in
Washington, DC, led by dedicated federal advocates located just steps away from the nation's
Capital building, and active participation by the Founder and President of TPA to develop strategy,
engage top-level relationships, and ensure high-quality customer service. TPA advocates are
adept at executing client visions at the federal level. TPA understands that the City's economic
development, housing, environment, transportation and infrastructure, public safety, and
healthcare goals are paramount to its community and therefore, require the implementation of
innovative, effective, and consistent advocacy strategies to achieve. TPA will utilize the following
strategies to provide the highest quality of federal advocacy to the City and maximize success to
create legacy projects.
On -the -ground advocacy in Washington, DC: This takes the form of daily outreach to
contacts on Capitol Hill and the Administration, as well as advocacy visits to relevant
policymakers in Washington, DC. The project team for this engagement has extensive
relationships throughout Congress, the Biden Administration, and federal agencies that will be
leveraged to best position the City for success. The proximity of the TPA Federal Office will
offer the City unparalleled access to key decision makers in the federal government.
Additionally, this proximity enables TPA advocates to consistently promote City priorities, as
well as quickly respond to relevant legislative changes and funding opportunities to the City.
As an extension of your staff, TPA will organize advocacy trips to Washington, DC to engage
first-hand on priority issues. These efforts, combined with tactical and consistent follow-up,
would undoubtedly lead to notable achievements for the City.
Federal Appropriations Requests: TPA understands how to collaborate with clients to
identify competitive projects for consideration by federal elected leaders. TPA advocates will
develop and submit earmark applications on the City's behalf and will work to gather supportive
documents from relevant stakeholders to ensure applications stand out among the rest. TPA
will leverage its relationships with key members of federal agencies, including the Department
of Transportation, Department of Energy, Department of Parks and Recreation, and
Department of Education, to ensure the City's priorities are being actively considered and that
the City's projects have the highest likelihood of success. This process is crucial to securing
the funds the City needs to improve and protect its community.
Law Navigation: Recently enacted federal spending measures contain complicated spending
programs that may be of use to the City's strategic legislative and funding priorities. TPA
federal advocates have extensive experience navigating widespread federal legislation and
are policy experts in the field. As a result, the TPA team has provided strategic guidance to
local government clients on measures such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Build Back
Better Act, the American Rescue Plan Act, and more. TPA's active presence in the federal
government ensures that the City will receive the most up-to-date information regarding
legislation that may have an impact and will be able to respond quickly to relevant bills.
• Consistent Communication: More often than not, legislation and funding opportunities are
introduced with little notice and have the potential to greatly impact local governments. Due to
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 4
the proactive engagement and communication of the TPA team, the City will be made acutely
aware of any and all relevant changes and opportunities at the federal level. TPA will confer
regularly with the City and will provide detailed weekly and monthly updates on federal
activities relevant to the City's policy priorities. Additionally, members of the team will be
available to visit the City, speak at City meetings, and will work diligently to help elevate the
City's profile both in California and Washington, DC through legislative and funding success.
(i) Scope of Work
TPA will utilize the following strategic and comprehensive approach to provide legislative
advocacy services to the City:
• Conduct Detailed Orientation: TPA utilizes a comprehensive onboarding process that
includes extensive meetings with various relevant members of City leadership and key City
departments to help develop a strategic plan that is carefully tailored to satisfy the needs of
the City, as well as designed for maximum success in the current political climate and funding
environment.
• Develop Legislative Strategy: Utilizing the information gathered during the onboarding
process, TPA will coordinate with the City to develop an official legislative platform and
strategy that represents the City's priorities in Washington, DC. This blueprint will be shared
with key stakeholders in Congress and the Biden Administration.
Implement the Legislative Strategy: TPA will advocate for the City's legislative agenda
utilizing the following methods:
o Build and Strengthen Relevant Relationships: TPA has cultivated a network of
valuable relationships that will be leveraged to promote the City's legislative agenda.
TPA will also advise the City on Federal Legislation webinars, training events,
advocacy meetings, and conferences that would further bolster these relationships
and benefit the City's interests through participation.
o Leverage Relationships for Strategic Advocacy Plan: TPA will engage various
techniques to leverage our network of key relationships on behalf of the City:
■ Schedule meetings for the City to discuss relevant legislation
■ Prepare all briefing materials and talking points for the City
■ Brief legislative offices and stakeholders on the City's legislative agenda
■ Follow-up on meetings to ensure commitments and deliverables are being met
o Coordinate Advocacy Trips: TPA will work with the City to coordinate advocacy trips
to Washington, DC to meet with the City's legislative delegation, as well as legislators
that serve on committees relevant to the City's agenda. Furthermore, whenever
possible, TPA will also schedule site visits by legislators to the City.
o Track Legislation: TPA will identify, analyze, and monitor all bill introductions and
amendments relevant to the City's legislative platform and assess their potential
impact on the City.
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 5
o Craft Testimony and Position Letters: TPA will prepare and submit written and
verbal testimony regarding legislation relevant to the City. TPA will also draft and
deliver position letters to legislators and key officials on specific bill language.
o Draft Bill Language: TPA will draft language and amendments for relevant legislation,
as required to protect and promote the City's agenda.
o Federal Earmark Opportunities: In an effort to maximize federal funding, TPA will
work with the City to identify projects and other funding priorities that may be suitable
for funding through the Federal Earmark process. TPA will coordinate with the City to
develop supporting materials for the earmark request. TPA will also work with
members of the City's federal legislative delegation to gain support for the inclusion of
the City's project.
Provide Progress Reports: TPA will confer regularly with the City on our activities. TPA will
provide timely electronic reports on the status of all legislative activity, such as bill language,
amendments, and committee analyses. In addition to written reports, TPA will be available to
the City for conference calls, in-person briefings, and meetings. TPA will also provide the City
with quarterly reports on legislative activity, as well as an annual calendar on Federal
Legislative activities and important milestones/deadlines.
• Prepare and File Lobbying Disclosure Reports: TPA will prepare and file, on behalf of the
City, all applicable federal lobbying disclosure reports.
0) Implementation Plan
Detailed onboarding process involving extensive meetings with local elected officials,
relevant members of the City's leadership team, and key departments to help us better
understand how to tailor a legislative strategy that achieves results in the current political
and funding environment. Identify funding strategies and opportunities for City priorities,
including key transportation and water infrastructure projects. Identify funding and
ilegislative opportunities through the Department of Transportation, Department of
Energy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency, and
additional relevant agencies identified through onboarding meetings.
The Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Program application opens.
In May the US Army Corps of Engineers submission period opens for water projects to
be considered for funding through the Corps Environmental Infrastructure authority. TPA
will identify legislation to advance the City's legislative priorities, as well as engage with
federal agency staff in order to advocate for funding opportunities for the City. With
unprecedented funding opportunities available to municipalities for infrastructure
programs, TPA will work throughout the year to identify and inform the City of relevant
funding opportunities, including new funding opportunities through Department of
Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transportation — including the
FRA, FAA, and FWHA.
The Transit -Oriented Development Pilot Program application opens.
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 6
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 7
to continue to conduct advocacy efforts in Washington D.C. to prepare for the City's
FY25 Community Project funding requests, priority Legislative Issues, and
JunelTPA
Appropriations requests.
2023
The Reconnecting Communities Program and Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant
1
Program applications administered by the Department of Transportation are estimated
to open.
Appropriations bills will be considered in the House, providing an opportunity to engage
July
directly with the City's federal delegation to promote funding for City projects.
2023
The Bridge Investment Program grant application opens.
Congress's traditional August recess provides an opportunity to build relationships
Augul
among staff and federal agencies and prepare for the busy fall legislative session.
202
Railroad Crossing Elimination Program application opens.
The end of the fiscal year brings a flurry of legislating in the U.S. Capitol with ample
- • - • -
opportunity for TPA to work on behalf of the City. Federal funding will materialize and
TPA will engage with members of the Appropriations Committees and their staffs to
promote and advocate for City priorities.
TPA will continue to advocate for the City's end of the year legislative and project
-
priorities in Washington, DC, while also looking ahead to identify potential opportunities
for the City.
Identify legislative priorities for the next year. TPA to begin conducting internal
• -
discussions with City staff regarding upcoming priorities. Lay the initial groundwork for
next year's Federal advocacy trips. Conduct a review of previous trips to explore best
practices, learn from past trips, and improve the experience for future years.
TPA to work with the City to finalize the list of pipeline projects and to finalize a Fiscal
- - • -
Year 2025 Federal Appropriations funding request ask. Ask may include a specific
request for the City, as well as a statewide request for additional funding in key
programs.
The President's budget is released, kicking off the FY25 appropriations process. TPA is
poised to build on the successes of FY22 and FY23, taking best practices and applying
-
them to the City's funding priorities. TPA will work with City staff to identify key
community projects to be submitted to the City's Congressional delegation through the
FY25 Community Project Funding process.
TPA to continue conversations with the City's Congressional Delegation about a Federal
- •
funding request for Community Project Funding. TPA to draft the Federal funding ask
and prepare project(s) for consideration for the Community Project Funding process.
Work with City staff to plan delegation advocacy trip.
Appropriations submissions are due. Building on the work of the previous months, TPA
crafts and submits earmark applications on behalf of the City to the City's federal
representatives for FY25
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 7
1. CITY OF MURRIETA
(a) Client Project Manager: Kristen Crane, Assistant City Manager
Phone Number: 951-461-6014
Email Address: kcrane@murrietaca.gov
(b) Project Description: TPA provides federal legislative advocacy and
grant writing services to the City.
(c) Project Start & End Date: 2021 - Present
(d) Staff Assigned to Each Project: Ben Goldeen, Anastasia Heaton
(e) Summary of Final Outcome: TPA has advocated on behalf of the City and has
helped secure over $7.5 million for its priority
projects.
2. CITY OF ONTARIO
(a) Client Project Manager: Tricia Almiron, Legislative Analyst
Phone Number: 909-395-2280
Email Address: talmiron@ontarioca.gov
(b) Project Description: TPA provides federal legislative advocacy services
to the City.
(c) Project Start & End Date: 2021 - Present
(d) Staff Assigned to Each Project: Ben Goldeen, Joseph Melo, Sammi Maciel
(e) Summary of Final Outcome: TPA has advocated on behalf of the City and has
helped secure significant funding for its priority
projects, including the authorization of $40 million
through the 2022 Water Resources Development
Act.
3. CITY OF BREA
(a) Client Project Manager: Bill Gallardo, City Manager
Phone Number: 714-990-7710
Email Address: billga@ci.brea.ca.us
(b) Project Description: TPA provides state and federal legislative advocacy
and grant writing services to the City.
(c) Project Start & End Date: 2006 - Present
(d) Staff Assigned to Each Project: Ben Goldeen, Sammi Maciel
(e) Summary of Final Outcome: TPA has advocated on behalf of the City and has
helped secure over $16.2 million for its priority
projects.
N.J Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta
Page 8
ALL-INCLUSIVE RETAINER:
HOURLY RATES FOR KEY PERSONNEL:
NAME & TITLE lvw�
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES
MONTHLY
Christopher Townsend, President
Federal Legislative Advocacy Services
$5,000*
•
Conduct Detailed Orientation
Included
•
Develop Legislative Strategy
Included
•
Implement the Legislative Strategy
Included
•
Build and Strengthen Relevant Relationships
Included
•
Leverage Relationships for Strategic Advocacy Plan
Included
•
Coordinate Advocacy Trips
Included
•
Track Legislation
Included
•
Craft Testimony and Position Letters
Included
•
Draft Bill Language
Included
•
Federal Earmark Opportunities
Included
•
Provide Progress Reports
Included
•
Prepare and File Lobbying Disclosure Reports
Included
*The monthly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses
HOURLY RATES FOR KEY PERSONNEL:
NAME & TITLE lvw�
HOURLY FEE
Christopher Townsend, President
$350*
Ben Goldeen, Federal Advocacy Manager
$275*
Joseph Melo, Senior Associate
$250*
Sammi Maciel, Associate
$225*
*The hourly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 9
In addition to federal legislative advocacy services, TPA offers state legislative advocacy and
grant funding services. As one of the top firms continuously recognized by the California Secretary
of State, TPA believes there are numerous benefits to combining legislative advocacy and grant
funding services within a single team, including increased efficiency and effectiveness,
streamlined communication, and improved collaboration amongst various policy, legislative, and
funding experts. The TPA team's collaborative and comprehensive approach to legislative and
funding advocacy ensures that the City will have all 15 TPA advocates at its disposal to pursue
any and all legislative and funding opportunities, which will ultimately maximize and ensure
success. The following chart details the pricing breakdown of state legislative advocacy and grant
funding, as well as a bundled service structure of all three services.
DESCRIPTIONOF
FEE
• OF
FEE
• OF
FEE
• OF
FEE
Bundled State and Federal
State Legislative Advocacy
Federal Legislative Advocacy
Grant Funding Services
Advocacy and Grant Funding
Services
Services
$5,000 Per Month
Services
$5,000 Per Month
$5,000 Per Month
$8,000 Per Month
•
Conduct Detailed Orientation
•
Conduct Detailed Orientation
Conduct Detailed Orientation
e
Conduct Detailed Orientation
•
Develop Legislative Strategy
•
Develop Legislative Strategy
•
Craft Strategic Funding Plan
•
Develop Legislative Strategy
•
Implement the Legislative
•
Implement the Legislative
•
Identify, Research, and
Monitor Grant Funding
.
Implement the Legislative
Strategy
Strategy
Opportunities
Strategy
•
Build and Strengthen
•
Build and Strengthen
•
Grant Application
•
Build and Strengthen
Relevant Relationships
Relevant Relationships
Development and Submittal
Relevant Relationships
•
Leverage Relationships for
•
Leverage Relationships for
•
Establishment of Clear
•
Leverage Relationships for
Strategic Advocacy Plan
Strategic Advocacy Plan
Accountabilities
Strategic Advocacy Plan
•
Coordinate Advocacy Trips
•
Coordinate Advocacy Trips
•
Provide Overview of Full
Applications Requirements
•
Coordinate Advocacy Trips
•
Track Legislation
Track Legislation
•
Assemble Project
Background and Details
•
Track Legislation
•
Craft Testimony and Position
•
Craft Testimony and Position
•
Coordinate Technical Project
•
Craft Testimony and Position
Letters
Letters
Details
Letters
•
Draft Bill Language
0
Draft Bill Language
•
Draft Written Proposal
•
Draft Bill Language
•
State Budget Funding
0
Federal Earmark
0
Incorporate Feedback to
•
State Budget Funding
Opportunities
Opportunities
Finalize Proposal
Opportunities
•
Provide Progress Reports
0
Provide Progress Reports
•
Submit Completed
Application
•
Federal Earmark
Opportunities
•
Prepare and File Lobbying
•
Prepare and File Lobbying
•
Funding Advocacy
0
Provide Progress Reports
Disclosure Reports
Disclosure Reports
•
Post -Grant Submittal
0
Prepare and File Lobbying
Advocacy
Disclosure Reports
•
Post -Award Grant
•
Identify, Research, and
Administration and
Monitor Grant Funding
Compliance
Opportunities
•
Comprehensive Follow -Up on
•
Grant Application
Unsuccessful Applications
Development and Submittal
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 10
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 11
• Establishment of Clear
Accountabilities
• Provide Overview of Full
Applications Requirements
• Assemble Project
Background and Details
• Coordinate Technical Project
Details
• Draft Written Proposal
• Incorporate Feedback to
Finalize Proposal
• Submit Completed
Application
• Funding Advocacy
• Post -Grant Submittal
Advocacy
• Post -Award Grant
Administration and
Compliance
• Comprehensive Follow -Up on
Unsuccessful Applications
*The monthly fee includes all reasonable business and travel expenses
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 11
TPA uses a strategic and comprehensive approach to federal legislative advocacy that will be
tailored to meet the specific needs of the City. In order to maximize legislative and funding success
for the City, TPA's dedicated team of 15 advocates will utilize a collaborative and strategic
approach and leverage an expansive collection of relationships in Congress, the Biden
Administration, and various federal agencies.
The project manager, TPA Federal Advocacy Manger Ben Goldeen, will oversee the proposed
team to ensure the work for City is completed and the City's legislative priorities and goals have
the highest likelihood of success. TPA Senior Associate Joseph Melo and TPA Associate Sammi
Maciel will provide support to Ben and work directly on the City's federal legislative platform and
priority projects. This team will work in collaboration with the rest of TPA to leverage relationships,
identify key legislative opportunities, and ensure all funding opportunities are identified.
The proposed team will also be supported by an additional ten TPA advocates. TPA President
Christopher Townsend will personally engage in the City's advocacy plan to adjust internal
workloads in order to ensure quality control of all deliverables. This comprehensive approach will
maximize success for the City while minimizing burden on City staff. TPA is prepared to draft all
legislative and funding materials. TPA will rely on City staff to provide technical project
information, budget details, and project timeline information as appropriate. TPA proposes a team
of four people to perform federal legislative advocacy services for the City.
Christopher Townsend
7 President
Role: Managing Principal/Senior Strategic Advisor
Ben Goldeen
Federal Advocacy Manager
Role: Project Manager/Federal Advocate
n Joseph Melo
u Senior Associate
Role: Federal Advocate
.0 Sammi Maciel
Associate
Role: Federal Advocate
Resumes for each member of the proposed project team can be found on the following pages.
N.J Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta
Page 12
Christopher Townsend, President: Christopher founded TPA in 1998 and
has 40 years of experience in public affairs, legislative advocacy, and grant
writing. Christopher and TPA have represented over 315 clients, including
250 local public agencies, such as cities, counties, transportation agencies,
water and sanitation districts, elementary and secondary school districts,
community college districts, park and recreation districts, and other special
districts, as well as nonprofit organizations.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
President
1998 -Present
Christopher provides leadership to a team of 15 advocates and grant writers while managing the
development and implementation of strategies for the agendas of each client. His achievements
include:
• Under Christopher's leadership, TPA has become one of the most successful advocacy
firms in California (and is continually recognized as a "top ten" firm registered with the
California Secretary of State) while still providing the personalized attention and focus of
a small boutique firm.
Under Christopher's leadership, TPA has shepherded over 100 legislative and regulatory
proposals into law over a wide range of policy areas, including local governance, water
and sanitation, transportation, housing and economic development, parks and natural
resources, historical and cultural resources, elementary and secondary education, higher
education, and public safety. The bipartisan capabilities of the firm are evidenced by
legislative and funding successes over the tenure of several federal and state
administrations, including: President Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald
Trump, and Governors Pete Wilson, Gray Davis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jerry Brown,
and Gavin Newsom.
• Christopher and his team have secured over $2.6 billion in local, regional, state, and
federal government grants as well as private and nonprofit grants for a multitude of legacy
projects in the policy sectors of water and sanitation, transportation, education, housing
and economic development, parks and natural resources, historical and cultural
resources, and public safety.
• Maintains close bi-partisan relationships with several members of the California
Congressional delegation, including Senators Feinstein and Padilla, and Representatives
Torres, Lowenthal, Porter, Levin, Correa, Lee, Swalwell, Napolitano, Garamendi,
Carbajal, DeSaulnier, Sanchez, Lieu, Harder, Calvert, Garcia, Steel, and Kim.
Christopher and TPA have participated in the development and implementation of several
California bond propositions for the statewide ballot to provide capital funding for major
infrastructure projects, including water and sanitation, transportation, education, housing
and economic development, parks and natural resources, and historical and cultural
resources, including Propositions 1, 1 B, 1 C, 1 D, 1 E, 12, 13, 14, 40, 47, 50, 55, 68 and 84.
Most recently, Christopher worked closely with the State Legislature and the Governor's
office on the drafting of SB 5 (De Leon), which authorized a $4 billion park bond that was
approved on the November 2018 statewide ballot as Proposition 68.
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 13
In 1999, Christopher was appointed by Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa to serve
on the Speaker's Commission on State and Local Government Finance.
In 1997, Christopher was appointed by Assembly Speaker Cruz Bustamante to serve on
the California Film Commission.
PepsiCo/Taco Bell Corp., Irvine, CA
Senior Director, Government & Community Affairs
1992-1998
Christopher managed and directed government and media relations, crisis management, internal
communications, and marketing publicity. Christopher also managed the political action
committee for state and federal political races. Additionally, Christopher managed community
relations initiatives, corporate philanthropy, and the Taco Bell Foundation.
Stein -Brief Group, Inc., Dana Point, CA
Vice President, Public Affairs
1982-1992
Christopher directed government, community, and media relations at the level, state, and federal
levels, including the management of all political, civic, charitable, and cultural activities.
Christopher provided land -use planning and entitlement process analysis for domestic and
international projects. Christopher also managed activities with numerous state and federal
agencies to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations governing land use.
Finally, Christopher created and directed a political action committee that supported various local,
state, and federal candidates and ballot initiatives.
JFK School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Master of Public Administration 1991
Claremont McKenna College, Claremont, CA
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Magna cum Laude, Political Science Honors Prize 1982
Coro Fellow
Southern California 1981
Harry S Truman Scholar
California 1980
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 14
Ben Goldeen, Federal Advocacy Manager: Ben brings 12 years of federal
legislative, funding, and public policy experience. Ben has experience
managing legislative activity, including bill analysis, research, and drafting
particularly for federal funding opportunities. Ben has expertise in several
policy sectors including water resources, healthcare, housing,
environmental hazards, agriculture, foreign affairs, and resources for
veterans.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Federal Advocacy Manager
2021 -Present
Since joining TPA, Ben keeps clients informed of significant actions and pertinent developments
in the federal government and strategizes on ways in which to influence and enact changes in
Washington, DC that have concrete results for clients. Some of Ben's accomplishments include:
• Through the FY 2023 federal appropriations process, Ben worked with the City of
Palmdale to secure two federal earmarks totaling $3.5 million for the City's transportation
and infrastructure priorities. Ben helped develop and submit a compelling request and
utilized strategic advocacy to ensure the City's funding success.
• Ben helped secure $439,094 in FY 2023 federal community project funding for the City of
Ontario's Active Seniors On the Go Program. The program will provide seniors access to
recreational activities that foster health and well-being.
• Ben's nearly seven years working for members of California's Congressional Delegation
has led to an extensive network of relationships both on Capitol Hill and within federal
agencies. His understanding of the regional and political dynamics of the California
Congressional delegation and their interactions with other members of the House and
Senate are important to successfully advocating for California-based clients.
• Ben has first-hand knowledge of the current federal appropriations process, including
community project funding requests. This process differs from the pre -2011 earmark
process and an understanding of the need to balance transparency and politics to submit
a competitive request is key. Ben has utilized his experience to successfully assist clients
secure millions of dollars' worth of earmarks.
• Ben has identified new and previously -underutilized federal grants for the benefit of TPA
clients. He has leveraged his relationships with key grant officials at various federal
agencies to ascertain their specific priorities and buzz words required for successful grant
applications. Ben then leverages that information to help TPA federal clients develop and
submit more competitive federal grant applications and then provide more effective
tailored advocacy to secure funding awards.
• Ben leveraged his extensive policy knowledge and utilized key relationships in the
President's Administration and Congress to authorize over $40 million for TPA clients
through the 2022 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The funding will help TPA
clients invest in water resources and build more resilient communities.
• Ben helped secure the authorization of $30 million for California Maritime Centers of
Excellence through the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 15
US House of Representatives, Office of Rep. Jim Costa (CA -16)
Legislative Director, Senior Policy Advisor, Legislative Assistant 2016-2021
As Legislative Director Ben developed and implemented a diverse legislative strategy ranging
from transportation projects to health care, water resources, agriculture, nutrition and more. Ben
updated and advised the Congressman on the latest happenings in Congress and the
Administration in order to successfully advance priorities. Ben directly managed a portfolio of
water resources, agriculture, trade, federal budgeting, and appropriations while overseeing the
entire legislative program. Prior to serving as Legislative Director Ben served as Senior Policy
Advisor and Legislative Assistant, demonstrating expertise in housing, veterans' affairs, financial
services, health care, foreign affairs, intelligence, defense, and labor issues.
Maryland State Senate, Prince George's County Senate Delegation
Legislative Director 2016
Ben managed the legislative priorities of the County's Senate delegation, successfully steering to
passage dozens of bills related to local matters.
US House of Representatives, Office of Rep. Dennis Cardoza (CA -18)
Legislative and Press Assistant, Legislative Correspondent, Staff Assistant 2010-2013
Ben advised the Congressman on a diverse range of legislative issues. In addition Ben
composed, documented, and tracked office correspondence, drafted memoranda, reports, and
other informational documents for Representative Cardoza and senior staff that informed
legislative positions. Ben coordinated with California government, local governments, community
leaders, and industry experts to address constituent problems. Ben also received and
documented messages, queries, and complaints from constituents, and categorized and
assigned responses to constituent mail.
Boston College
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Latin American Studies 2010
University of Pennsylvania
Certificate in Community Development and Growth
2015
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 16
Joseph Melo, Senior Associate: Joseph brings eight years of federal
legislative, funding, and public policy experience. Joseph has extensive
experience managing legislative and funding activity, including bill analysis,
research, and drafting, particularly for federal funding opportunities. Joseph
has expertise in several policy areas including energy and commerce,
technology, education, housing, foreign affairs, and local government
governance.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Senior Associate 2023 -Present
As a Senior Associate, Joseph is skilled in leveraging his extensive policy knowledge and
relationships at both the state and federal levels to advocate for TPA clients and ensure legislative
and funding success. Some of Joseph's experience includes:
• Joseph's six years of experience working for two California Congressional
Representatives has led to an extensive network of relationships both on Capitol Hill and
within federal agencies. His understanding of the regional and political dynamics of the
California Congressional delegation and their interactions with other members of the
Senate and House are important to successfully advocating for California-based clients.
• Joseph has extensive knowledge and understanding of the current federal appropriations
process and has experience in successfully securing millions of dollars' worth of earmarks
for California projects. While serving as Policy Advisor to Congressman McNerney,
Joseph assisted in securing $27 million in community project funding for 15 community
projects in Contra Costa and San Joaquin counties, greatly benefiting local California
communities.
Office of Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA -09)
Policy Advisor, Legislative Assistant, Legislative Correspondent, Intern 2019-2023
As Policy Advisor, Joseph led the Congressman's legislative portfolio on issues under the
jurisdiction of the Energy & Commerce Committee (Subcommittees on Energy, Communications
& Technology, and Consumer Protection & Commerce) and the Science, Space & Technology
Committee (Subcommittee on Energy). Additionally, he assisted in staffing, advising, and
preparing the Congressman's questions and talking points for committee hearings and markups.
Joseph co -led the Congressman's appropriations process and initially helped to secure more than
$27 million for fifteen community projects located in California's Contra Costa County and San
Joaquin County, as well as managed the Congressman's caucus work as co-chair of the Artificial
Intelligence Caucus and Wi-Fi Caucus. Prior to serving as the Congressman's Policy Advisor,
Joseph served as Legislative Assistant, Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant, and Intern,
demonstrating expertise in a wide range of policy areas, including energy and commerce,
technology, education, housing, foreign affairs, and local governance.
Save the Children Action Network
Public Policy and Advocacy Intern 2018
Joseph supported bipartisan federal, state, and local government relations efforts through
research on elected officials, congressional candidates, and legislation. Wrote memorandum on
education programs and policies. Additionally, he drafted policy documents advocating for specific
legislation and institutions relating to early childhood education.
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 17
Oracle Corporation
Enterprise Account Manager
2015-2017
While at Oracle, Joseph progressed from Business Development Consultant into Account
Manager role in under two years. As Enterprise Account Manager, Joseph supported Fortune 100
companies and associated subsidiaries in initiating, developing, and closing sales cycles with
Oracle's cloud portfolio, as well as led meetings and managed relationships with Executive
leadership.
Office of Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (CA -12)
District Intern
2014
Joseph assisted in casework and advocated for constituents by calling, emailing, and helping draft
letters to federal agencies. Additionally, he worked alongside congressional aides to research and
complete policy -focused projects.
University of California, Berkeley
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science 2015
The Wilson Center
Foreign Policy Fellowship Program Certificate 2022
N.J Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Pae 18
Sammi Maciel, Associate: Sammi brings four years of federal legislative,
funding, and public policy experience. Sammi has experience managing
legislative activity, including bill analysis, research, and drafting particularly
for federal funding opportunities. Sammi has expertise in several policy
sectors including local governance, transportation, broadband, energy, and
cultural resources.
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Associate
2021 -Present
Since joining TPA, Sammi keeps clients informed of significant actions and pertinent
developments in the federal government and strategizes ways in which to influence and enact
changes in Washington, DC that have concrete results for clients. Some of Sammi's experience
include:
• In FY 2023, Sammi worked with the City of Half Moon Bay to secure a $2 million earmark
for the City's Highway 1 -Frenchman Creek Intersection and Bike/Pedestrian Improvement
project. Sammi assisted in developing and submitting the project for consideration, as well
as leveraged her extensive federal relationships to ensure success.
• Sammi's four years of experience working for two California Senators has led to an
extensive network of relationships both on Capitol Hill and within federal agencies. Her
understanding of the regional and political dynamics of the California Congressional
delegation and their interactions with other members of the Senate and House are
important to successfully advocating for California-based clients.
• Sammi has first-hand knowledge of the current federal appropriations process, including
community project funding requests. This process differs from the pre -2011 earmark
process and an understanding of the need to balance transparency and politics to submit
a competitive request is key. Sammi has utilized her experience to successfully assist
clients secure millions of dollars' worth of earmarks.
• Sammi has identified new and previously -underutilized federal grants for the benefit of
TPA clients. She has leveraged her relationships with key grant officials at various federal
agencies to ascertain their specific priorities and buzz words required for successful grant
applications. Sammi then leverages that information to help TPA federal clients develop
and submit more competitive federal grant applications and then provide more effective
tailored advocacy to secure funding awards.
US Senate, Office of Senator Kamala Harris (CA)
Field Representative
2019-2021
Sammi represented a 30 -county region on behalf of Senator Harris, attending events, hosting
meetings, and facilitating outreach to constituents. She tracked key issues, facilitated rapid
response, and built an extensive network of relationships with local elected officials and advocacy
groups within her 30 -county region. Additionally, Sammi drafted letters of support on behalf of her
30 -county region addressed to numerous federal agencies, requesting funding for key projects in
the region.
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 19
US Senate, Office of Senator Dianne Feinstein (CA)
Legislative Intern Summer of 2017
As a legislative intern with Senator Dianne Feinstein's office, Sammi researched and drafted
memos for state field representatives regarding state legislature bills in the policy areas of
transportation and water infrastructure, cannabis, and sanctuary cities.
Dominican University of California
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
2017
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 20
TPA does NOT propose using subcontracting services to achieve the scope of work outlined in
the RFP.
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services ICit of La Quinta Page 21
TPA affirms that it has no negative history. TPA has no disclosures of alleged significant prior or
ongoing agreement failure, any civil or criminal litigation or investigation pending, which involved
the firm or in which the firm has been judged guilty or liable within the last five years.
0 Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta Page 22
ATTACHMENT 2
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Must be execrated by proposer and submitted with the proposal
IF CHRISTOPHER TOWNSEND
confirm that TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC
(Name) hereby acknowledge and
(Company) has reviewed the
City's Indemnlficatlon and minirnurn Insurance requirements as listed in Exhibits E and F
of the City's Agreement for Contract Services (Attachment 1); and declare that insurance
certificates and endorsements verifying compliance will be provided if an agreement Is
awarded.
I aaM PRESIDENT pf TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC
(Title) (Company)
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Commercial General Liability (at least as broad as ISO CG 0001)
$1,000,000 (per occurrence); $2,000,000 (general aggregate)
Mint Include the following endorsements:
General Liability Ad&tiopil insured
General Liability Primary and Noncontributory
Commercial Auto Liability (at least as broad as ISS} CA 0001)
$1,000,000 (per accident)
Personal Acta Declaration Page if applicable
Errors and Omissians 1-jabifty $1,000,000 (per claim and aggregate)
Worker's Compensation (per statutory requirements)
Must Include the following endorsements:
Worker's Compensation Waver of Subrogation
Worker's Compensation Declaration of Sole Proprietor if applicable
Cyber Liability/Technology Errors and Omissions Liability $1,000,000
(per occu rrenW loss
Page 11 of 14
Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta
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-ti111•�Nti 1.1 -
ATTACHMENT 3
NON -COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT FORM
Mist be executed by proposer and submitted with the proposal
If CHRISTOPHER TOVVNSEND
I am PRESIDENT
(Title)
(Name) hereby declare as follows:
of TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC
(Company)
the party making the foregoing proposal, that the proposal Is not made In the Interest of,
or on behalf of, any undisclosed person, partnership, company, association, organizatlon,
or corporation; that the proposal is genuine and not collusive or sham; that the proposer
has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other proposer to put in a false or
sham proposal, and has not direetJy or indirectly colluded, conspired, connived, or agreed
with any proposer or anyone else to put In a sham proposal, or that anyone shall refrain
from proposing; that the proposer has not In any manner, directly or Indirectly, sought by
agreement, communication, or conference with anyone to fix the proposal price of the
proposer or any other proposer, or to fix any overhead, profit, or cost element of the
proposal price, or of that of any other proposer, or to secure any advantage against the
public body awarding the agreement of anyone interested in the proposed agreement;
that all statements contained in the proposal are true; and, further, that the proposer has
not, directly or indirectly, submitted his or her proposal price or any breakdown thereof,
or the contents thereof, or divulged informatlon or data relative hereto, or paid, and will
not pay, any fee to any corporation, partnership, company, association, organizatlon,
proposal depositary, or to any member or agent thereof to effectuate a collusive or sham
proposal.
I declare under penalty of penury under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing Is true and correct,
proposer Signature:
Proposer Name: CHRISTOPHER TOWNSEND
Proposer Title:
Company Name:
Address:
PRESIDENT
TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC
1401 DOVE ST, ST 330, NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92WO
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Proposal for Federal Legislation Lobbyist Services I City of La Quinta
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CAIJKIMIA
ATTACH ME IST 4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF ADDENDA
Must be executed by proposer and submitted with the proposal;
If no addenda has been issued, mark "NIA "ur?der Addendum No. indicating
Not Appficabie and sign
ADDENDUM NO.
NIA
SIGNATURE INDICATING RECEIPT
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