Professional Services for H31128 – Approve an ordinance authorizing an agreement between the City of Houston and Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) in the maximum contract amount of $94,500.00 for professional services for the Office of Economic Development.
Specific Explanation:
The Chief Officer of Economic Development and the Chief Procurement Officer recommend that City Council approve an ordinance awarding a three (3) year contract between the City of Houston and Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership in the maximum contract amount of $94,500.00 for professional services for the Office of Economic Development.
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) is a non-profit organization founded in 1983. BAHEP has been under contract with the City since 1999 to provide services to enhance Houston’s tourism and economic development. Funding under the proposed contract is to be provided by the City of Houston utilizing hotel occupancy tax proceeds retained by the City as part of its creation of the Houston First Corporation.
In collaboration with the City’s economic development team, BAHEP will continue to advocate for funding and policies that support the aerospace and aviation industries, support and expand the Bay Tech incubator and business development program, support business attraction and retention in the industrial districts and at Ellington Airport and continue targeted efforts to coordinate and assist projects such as the Bay Area Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau, development of new visitor attractions and international marketing of the City of Houston. BAHEP will also identify and promote programs aimed at developing Houston’s workforce through strategic partnerships with regional economic development agencies, educational institutions, and industry groups.
BAHEP will pursue the City’s targeted industry recruitment strategy, focusing on healthcare and educational facilities, technology companies, program integration, specialty chemical and high-end manufacturing business that are good targets for future expansion. BAHEP will work with the Houston Airport System to maximize development opportunities to promote and bring new, viable growth to Ellington Airport and will assist with preserving current activities on Ellington, including military and other business activities.
BAHEP will nurture a technology outreach program by which a network of engineers, scientists and the business community create new business opportunities in the region. The Administration recommends approval of this three-year contract with BAHEP as described.
This recommendation is made pursuant to subsection 252.022(a)(4) of the Texas Local Government Code, which provides that " a procurement for personal, professional, or planning services" is exempt from the competitive requirements for purchases.
MWBE Participation:
This Procurement is exempt from the MWBE, subcontracting goal participation as the total project expenditures does not exceeds the City’s $100,000.00 threshold.
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 a professional services contractor for this purchase.
Fiscal Note:
Funding for this item is included in the FY22 Adopted Budget. Therefore, no Fiscal Note is required as stated in the Financial Policies.
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Jerry Adams, Chief Procurement Officer Department Approval
Finance/Strategic Procurement Division
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Estimated Spending Authority:
FY22 Out-Years Total
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Office of Economic Development
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$21,000.00
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$73,500.00
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$94,500.00
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