Business Services Action Item

DATE:	Tuesday, March 10, 2020
TO:	School Board Members
FROM:	Jeff Eakins, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Contract with Akerman LLP for School Board Attorney Services (Business Services Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The School Board Attorney Services provided by Akerman LLP will include a three tier payment structure. Tier one is a flat monthly fee of $13,750, to cover representation of the School Board including advice, counseling, and attendance at all School Board meetings, workshops, and any other meetings deemed appropriate. Tier two is a flat monthly fee of $1,000 for drafting and updating School Board policies, to include any legislative policy updates. Tier three is an hourly fee for any litigation matters to include coverage of federal, state, and local judicial and administrative proceedings and appeals brought by or against the School Board. The initial term of this agreement shall be for two years, with two 2-year renewals.  There is a 30-day termination for convenience clause included in this contract.  This contract may be renewed by the Superintendent, per the terms of the specifications. In accordance with the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) Purchasing Policy 6A-1.012,(11)(a), the requirement for requesting competitive solicitations for commodities or contractual services from three or more sources is hereby waived as authorized by Section 1010.04(4)(a), F.S. for the purchase by district school boards of professional services which shall include, without limitation, legal services, including attorney, paralegal, expert witness, court reporting, appraisal or mediator services.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Establish a strong foundation of financial stewardship
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds in the amount $550,000 will be available in Project 9999. This is an estimation of cost due to the cost of potential litigation.
EVALUATION
There will be an evaluation of performance every two years.
SUBMITTED BY:

		Gretchen Saunders
		Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270
		C 6.08
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20200310_980 (Board Meeting) * Section C Item# 6.08