Memorandum

City of Lawrence

TO:	Mayor and City Commissioners
FROM:	David L. Corliss,  Interim City Manager
CC:	Ed Mullins, Director of Finance Debbie Van Saun, Assistant City Manager Casey Liebst, Budget Manager
Date:	March 22, 2006
RE:	Request for Proposals – Financial Advisor Consultant Services

I am requesting that the City solicit proposals from qualified financial advisor consultant services to assist staff and the Commission in a number of key financial decisions and policies.  The assistance of financial advisor services has been used by the City in the past (Springsted in 2002 on debt issuances) and is frequently used by peer communities to advise on process, trends, best practices, and options in both operating and capital budget issues.

The City has a number of pending capital projects which will require innovation, critical-thinking, and “big picture” planning to ensure confidence in both the decision-making process and the outcome.   Additionally, the City’s annual operating budget should be examined and challenged for strengths and weaknesses.  The additional assistance of a financial advisor will assist staff and the Commission in these important decisions in allocating our resources.  The attached scope of services was developed by Ed Mullins and will be used in the solicitation of proposals.  A final scope of services, including phases reflecting immediate concerns and longer term study areas, will be prepared with the successfully selected consultant for final Commission approval with a contract.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.