Council approves on-call relocation consultant contract to support real estate transactions and shelter conversions

The Fresno City Council approved a contract to secure on-demand real estate acquisition and relocation services to support planning, grant-related acquisitions and conversion of shelter sites.

Phil Sky, assistant director of planning and development, said the planning department and public works have historically used relocation consultants for projects that require compliance with federal relocation requirements, and that the city is procuring Hamner Jewell and Associates to provide those services on an as-needed basis. Sky said expected uses include transactions tied to grant awards and converting existing Homekey motel acquisitions, and noted the council previously adopted a resolution to dispose of one site to the Cesar Chavez Foundation.

Council members asked whether the city has used relocation consultants previously and whether the chosen consultant has experience with Fresno projects. Staff said the consultant has supported the city’s senior activity center project and the planning department has relied on public works’ consultants in the past. Sky said public works’ relocation consultant work was previously made available to planning when needed, and that this contract formalizes on-demand access for planning and capital projects.

A council member said relocation will be key when transitioning shelter occupants and emphasized the need for experienced consultants to avoid placing people back on the street. Staff responded the consultant has prior work with the city and the contract will be used only as needed.

A motion to approve the contract carried 5 to 0.