Council advances three‑year crisis communications plan contract to second reading

Council sent an ordinance to second reading that would authorize the city manager and city clerk to enter an agreement with a selected firm to develop a three‑year crisis communications plan.

Staff described a multi‑year scope that starts with an internal communications audit in year one, adds external‑messaging tools and a listening strategy in year two, and culminates with integrated exercises and final deliverables in year three. The procurement team received eight proposals, interviewed three firms within the budgeted range and recommended the top‑scoring firm for the contract. The presentation noted deliverables are tied to payment milestones and that the final product will be tested on‑site and presented to the council.

Council members asked about project management and long‑term maintenance; staff said project oversight will be led internally with broad departmental engagement. Council voted to move the ordinance to second reading by title only; the item will return for final adoption at a later meeting.

Quotes are taken from council discussion and staff presentation recorded in the transcript.