Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Elections Communications topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves $98,000 contract with Gap Strategies for bond election outreach and communications
Summary
The council approved a contract for bond-election outreach services with Gap Strategies to support messaging, direct mail, digital outreach, events and rapid response; council members debated costs, local capacity and legal guardrails around election communications.
Beaumont City Council approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into an agreement with Gap Strategies for bond election services, approving a contract not to exceed approximately $98,000 to support outreach and communications related to the November bond election.
Council and staff described the proposed scope of work as including messaging kickoff and coordination, production and mailing of two direct-mail pieces, website and digital communications, open houses and pop-up events, speakers bureau support, rapid response and media relations, plus associated project expenses for printing and travel. Communications Director Tracy (first name used in meeting) said the consultant has been involved with the Bond Advisory Committee, provided graphics and web content and can advise on legal guardrails and best practices for bond-related communications.
Council members raised questions about cost, local capacity and the necessity of hiring an outside firm. Councilman Hilliard and others asked whether the communications department could perform the work; Tracy said the city's communications team is staffed by three people and that the project would require substantial additional time and specialized expertise, including understanding legal limits for election-related messaging. Councilman Crenshaw suggested seeking a local firm to reduce travel and lodging expenses; others urged that a third party could provide an objective, legally compliant framing and avoid staff being accused of advocacy.
Councilwoman Sherwood and other members suggested narrowing the scope or setting a lower not-to-exceed amount; staff said they had already negotiated the proposal down from a higher initial figure. Council discussed that fees for the consultant could be reimbursed from bond proceeds if the bonds are sold. After discussion, the council voted to approve the contract.
Staff said the consultant would support an open house schedule, virtual town hall, ward meetings and festival pop-ups and provide materials such as printed boards and social media support. Council members emphasized the need for accurate, factual, legally compliant outreach and asked that staff coordinate closely with the consultant.
