RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt an Ordinance approving and authorizing a contract between the City of Houston and Stout Risius Ross, LLC, for professional consulting services for the Legal Department and authorize a maximum contract amount of $60,000.00.
SPECIFIC EXPLANATION:
The Legal Department recommends that City Council adopt an ordinance approving an agreement for professional consulting services with Stout Risius Ross, LLC (“Firm”) in an amount not to exceed $60,000.00 for expert witness services in connection with the pending lawsuit styled DM Arbor Court, Ltd. V. the City of Houston, Civil Action No. 4:18-cv-01884, in the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, Houston Division. On September 18, 2019, the Court issued a final judgment granting the City’s motion to dismiss without prejudice, however the judgment is subject to appeal. Arbor Court has sent a notice reserving its rights to continue the dispute with the City. The scope of services requires the Firm to evaluate and provide written opinions, review plaintiff’s claims and damages as described in the petition or any amended petitions, review and analyze documents produced discovery, prepare summary reports, and possibly provide testimony in deposition and trial and assist in trial preparation.
M/WBE Participation
M/WBE Zero Percentage Goal document approved by the Office of Business of Opportunity.
Hire Houston First:
This procurement is exempt from the City's Hire Houston First Ordinance. Bids/proposals were not solicited because the department is utilizing Professional Services Agreement.
Fiscal Note:
Funding for this item is included in the FY20 Adopted Budget. Therefore, no Fiscal Note is required as stated in the Financial Policies.
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Ronald C. Lewis
City Attorney