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Commission authorizes negotiation with Williams & Jensen for federal grant assistance for Verbena Exit property
Summary
At a Chilton County Commission work session, Jordan Mills of Williams & Jensen outlined the firm’s grant-identification and management services and the commission gave verbal permission to negotiate a retainer agreement to pursue federal funding for water and sewer to the Verbena Exit (200 Exit) property.
Jordan Mills, principal of Williams & Jensen, told the Chilton County Commission that his firm identifies and helps secure federal and state funding for municipal infrastructure and said the firm also provides project management and agency liaison services. "We work with all agencies, US, the EDA, DOT, USDA, Department of Labor, EPA, HUD, etcetera," Mills said, adding the firm can help with compliance and agency contacts to move funding to local projects.
County officials said they have a prospect for the 200 Exit property at the Verbena Exit but need water and sewer to make the site viable for development; Commissioner (unnamed) said Williams & Jensen could help pursue funds for water infrastructure that would serve the property and the south end of the county. Mills said the firm is typically paid by retainer and does not take performance-based bonuses; he also said every contract the firm proposes includes a 30-day termination clause if the county is not satisfied.
A commissioner requested permission to negotiate terms with Williams & Jensen and return to the full commission at the next meeting for a formal vote. The commission verbally agreed to allow negotiation; no formal contract was executed at the work session. "If we could tonight, I'd like to get permission from the commission to discuss terms with Jordan and Williams and Jensen and come back to commission our next meeting," the requesting commissioner said. The chair responded in the affirmative and directed staff to proceed with negotiations and report back.
Mills and other firm representatives said they have previously worked with municipalities and congressional offices to secure appropriations and grants, and that timing depends on federal budgeting and legislation. Commissioners emphasized the need for water and a sewer system for the Verbena Exit site; staff noted further negotiation will include scope, retainer amount, and deliverables before the commission considers any contract or appropriation.
