Approve Letter of Engagement with HBEC Group, Inc. for Professional Services Related to School Board Government Relations.

Since August 2007, Hillsborough County Public Schools has maintained a professional services agreement for government relations with the HBEC Group, Inc. The services provided include assistance to the government relations program by participating in and reporting on committee meetings, special legislative sessions, regular legislative sessions, estimating conferences and various commission, state, and agency meetings. In addition, the firm provides individual updates and one-on-one assistance as requested to staff and Board membership.

It is recommended that HBEC Group, Inc. again be engaged to provide service to Hillsborough County Public Schools. The firm has agreed to a two-year agreement at a 7.8% reduction in the previously agreed upon amount of $65,000 annually. The compensation level would be reduced from $65,000 per year to $60,000 per year.

Services from the firm would begin July 1, 2009. This will allow for continuation of work on budget preparation and revenue estimating as we move into the 2010 Legislative session. Revenue estimating conferences will occur over the summer and legislative committee meetings are slated to begin in September.

The firm will continue to provide on-site support in Tallahassee, at its expense.

For services rendered by HBEC Group, Inc., Hillsborough County Public Schools will be billed a total of $60,000 per fiscal year for two years; payable in monthly installments of $5,000 per month for a total of up to 24 months. Services will begin July 1, 2009 and continue through June 30, 2011. The contract may be cancelled by either party with a 30-day written notice. HBEC Group, Inc. will assume all responsibility for housing, meals and travel costs associated with the services provided. This item is budgeted from non-recurring funds.