CONTRACT 5900 Professional Services AgreementAgreement No. 5900
Agreement No. _[City Clerk assigns]—
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE CITY OF EL SEGUNDO AND
UTILITY COST MANAGEMENT, LLC
This AGREEMENT is made and entered into this 61h day of April, 2020, by and
between the CITY OF EL SEGUNDO, a municipal corporation and general law city
("CITY") and UTILITY COST MANAGEMENT LLC ("UCM"), a California Limited
Liability Company ("CONSULTANT"). The parties agree as follows:
A. As partial consideration, CONSULTANT agrees to perform the work listed
in the SCOPE OF SERVICES, below;
B. As additional consideration, CONSULTANT and CITY agree to abide by
the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement;
C. As additional consideration, CITY agrees to pay CONSULTANT as
specified in Exhibit A.
2. SCOPE OF SERVICES.
A, CONSULTANT will perform services listed in the attached Exhibit "A,"
which is incorporated by reference.
B. CONSULTANT will, in a professional manner, furnish all of the labor,
technical, administrative, professional and other personnel, all supplies
and materials, equipment, printing, vehicles, transportation, office space
and facilities, and all tests, testing and analyses, calculation, and all other
means whatsoever, except as herein otherwise expressly specified to be
furnished by CITY, necessary or proper to perform and complete the work
and provide the professional services required of CONSULTANT by this
Agreement.
3. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, While performing this Agreement, CONSULTANT
will use the appropriate generally accepted professional standards of practice existing at
the time of performance utilized by persons engaged in providing similar services. CITY
will continuously monitor CONSULTANT's services. CITY will notify CONSULTANT of
any deficiencies and CONSULTANT will have fifteen (15) days after such notification to
cure any shortcomings to CITY's satisfaction. Costs associated with curing the
deficiencies will be borne by CONSULTANT.
4. PAYMENTS. For CITY to pay CONSULTANT as specified in Exhibit "A".
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5. NON -APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS. Payments due and payable to CONSULTANT
for current services are within the current budget and within an available, unexhausted
and unencumbered appropriation of the CITY. In the event the CITY has not
appropriated sufficient funds for payment of CONSULTANT services beyond the current
fiscal year, this Agreement will cover only those costs incurred up to the conclusion of
the current fiscal year.
6. FAMILIARITY WITH WORK.
A. By executing this Agreement, CONSULTANT agrees that it has:
Carefully investigated and considered the scope of services to be
performed;
ii. Carefully considered how the services should be performed, and
iii. Understands the facilities, difficulties, and restrictions attending
performance of the services under this Agreement.
B. If services involve work upon any site, CONSULTANT agrees that
CONSULTANT has or will investigate the site and is or will be fully
acquainted with the conditions there existing, before commencing the
services hereunder. Should CONSULTANT discover any latent or
unknown conditions that may materially affect the performance of the
services, CONSULTANT will immediately inform CITY of such fact and will
not proceed except at CONSULTANT's own risk until written instructions
are received from CITY.
7. TERM. The term of this Agreement will be for four (4) years: April 20, 2020, to April
19, 2024. Unless otherwise determined by written amendment between the parties, this
Agreement will terminate in the following instances:
A. Completion of the work specified in Exhibit "A";
B. Termination as stated in Section 15.
A. CONSULTANT will not perform any work under this Agreement until:
CONSULTANT furnishes proof of insurance as required under
Section 22 of this Agreement; and
CITY gives CONSULTANT a written notice to proceed.
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B. Should CONSULTANT begin work on any phase in advance of receiving
written authorization to proceed, any such professional services are at
CONSULTANT's own risk.
9, TIME EXTENSIONS. Should CONSULTANT be delayed by causes beyond
CONSULTANT's control, CITY may grant a time extension for the completion of the
contracted services. If delay occurs, CONSULTANT must notify the Manager within
forty-eight (48) hours, in writing, of the cause and the extent of the delay and how such
delay interferes with the Agreement's schedule. The Manager will extend the
completion time, when appropriate, for the completion of the contracted services.
10. CONSISTENCY. In interpreting this Agreement and resolving any ambiguities, the
main body of this Agreement takes precedence over the attached Exhibits; this
Agreement supersedes any conflicting provisions. Any inconsistency between the
Exhibits will be resolved in the order in which the Exhibits appear below:
A. Exhibit: A: Scope of Work.
B. Exhibit., B. Proposal for Services
11. CHANGES. CITY may order changes in the services within the general scope of
this Agreement, consisting of additions, deletions, or other revisions, and the contract
sum and the contract time will be adjusted accordingly. All such changes must be
authorized in writing, executed by CONSULTANT and CITY, The cost or credit to CITY
resulting from changes, in the services will be determined in accordance with written
agreement between the parties.
12, TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER. CONSULTANT will provide CITY with a
Taxpayer Identification Number.
13. PERMITS AND LICENSES. CONSULTANT, at its sole expense, will obtain and
maintain during the term of this Agreement, all necessary permits, licenses, and
certificates that may be required in connection with the performance of services under
this Agreement.
14.WAIVER. CITY's review or acceptance of, or payment for, work product prepared
by CONSULTANT under this Agreement will not be construed to operate as a waiver of
any rights CITY may have under this Agreement or of any cause of action arising from
CONSULTANT's performance. A waiver by CITY of any breach of any term, covenant,
or condition contained in this Agreement will not be deemed to be a waiver of any
subsequent breach of the same or any other term, covenant, or condition contained in
this Agreement, whether of the same or different character.
15JERMINATION.
A. Except as otherwise provided, CITY may terminate this Agreement at any
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time with or without cause.
B. CONSULTANT may terminate this Agreement at any time with CITY's
mutual consent. Notice will be in writing at least thirty (30) days before the
effective termination date.
C. Upon receiving a termination notice, CONSULTANT will immediately
cease performance under this Agreement unless otherwise provided in the
termination notice. Except as otherwise provided in the termination notice,
any additional work performed by CONSULTANT after receiving a
termination notice will be performed at CONSULTANT's own cost; CITY
will not be obligated to compensate CONSULTANT for such work,
D. Should termination occur, all finished or unfinished documents, data,
studies, surveys, drawings, maps, reports and other materials prepared by
CONSULTANT will, at CITY's option, become CITY's property, and
CONSULTANT will receive just and equitable compensation for any work
satisfactorily completed up to the effective date of notice of termination,
not to exceed the total costs under Section 1(C).
E. Should the Agreement be terminated pursuant to this Section, CITY may
procure on its own terms services similar to those terminated.
F. By executing this document, CONSULTANT waives any and all claims for
damages that might otherwise arise from CITY's termination under this
Section.
G. If termination occurs after UCM has sent its Findings Letter to Client, then
Client will remain obligated to pay UCM, pursuant to this Agreement, for
any refunds, credits or Future Savings that were identified in the Findings
Letter and that are thereafter obtained by Client. UCM may continue to
obtain and review Client's utility billing and other information following
termination in order to periodically verify whether Client has obtained a
refund, credit or Future Savings that was identified in the Findings Letter.
16.OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS. All documents, data, studies, drawings, maps,
models, photographs and reports prepared by CONSULTANT under this Agreement are
CITY's property, CONSULTANT may retain copies of said documents and materials as
desired but will deliver all original materials to CITY upon CITY's written notice. CITY
agrees that use of CONSULTANT's completed work product, for purposes other than
identified in this Agreement, or use of incomplete work product, is at CITY's own risk.
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17. PUBLICATION OF DOCUMENTS. Except as necessary for performance of service
under this Agreement, no copies, sketches, or graphs of materials, including graphic art
work, prepared pursuant to this Agreement, will be released by CONSULTANT to any
other person or public CITY without CITY's prior written approval. All press releases,
including graphic display information to be published in newspapers or magazines, will
be approved and distributed solely by CITY, unless otherwise provided by written
agreement between the parties.
18. INDEMNIFICATION.
A. CONSULTANT agrees to the following:
Indemnification for Professional Services. CONSULTANT will
save harmless and indemnify and at CITY's request reimburse
defense costs for CITY and all its officers, volunteers,
employees and representatives from and against any and all
suits, actions, or claims, of any character whatever, brought
for, or on account of, any injuries or damages sustained by
any person or property resulting or arising from any negligent
or wrongful act, error or omission by CONSULTANT or any of
CONSULTANT's officers, agents, employees, or
representatives, in the performance of this Agreement, except
for such loss or damage arising from CITY's sole negligence
or willful misconduct,
it. Indemnification for other Damages. CONSULTANT indemnifies
and holds CITY harmless from and against any claim, action,
damages, costs (including, without limitation, attorney's fees),
injuries, or liability, arising out of this Agreement, or its
performance, except for such loss or damage arising from
CITY's sole negligence or willful misconduct. Should CITY be
named in any suit, or should any claim be brought against it
by suit or otherwise, whether the same be groundless or not,
arising out of this Agreement, or its performance,
CONSULTANT will defend CITY (at CITY's request and with
counsel satisfactory to CITY) and will indemnify CITY for any
judgment rendered against it or any sums paid out in
settlement or otherwise.
B. For purposes of this section "CITY" includes CITY's officers, officials,
employees, agents, representatives, and certified volunteers.
C. It is expressly understood and agreed that the foregoing provisions will
survive termination of this Agreement for claims and lawsuits filed within
two years following the expiration of this Agreement.
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D. The requirements as to the types and limits of insurance coverage to be
maintained by CONSULTANT as required by Section 22, and any
approval of said insurance by CITY, are not intended to and will not in any
manner limit or qualify the liabilities and obligations otherwise assumed by
CONSULTANT pursuant to this Agreement, including, without limitation, to
the provisions concerning indemnification.
19,ASSIGNABILITY. This Agreement is for CONSULTANT's professional services.
CONSULTANT's attempts to assign the benefits or burdens of this Agreement without
CITY's written approval are prohibited and will be null and void.
20.INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. CITY and CONSULTANT agree that
CONSULTANT will act as an independent contractor and will have control of all work
and the manner in which it is performed. CONSULTANT will be free to contract for
similar service to be performed for other employers while under contract with CITY.
CONSULTANT is not an agent or employee of CITY and is not entitled to participate in
any pension plan, insurance, bonus or similar benefits CITY provides for its employees.
Any provision in this Agreement that may appear to give CITY the right to direct
CONSULTANT as to the details of doing the work or to exercise a measure of control
over the work means that CONSULTANT will follow the direction of the CITY as to end
results of the work only.
21.AUDIT OF RECORDS. CONSULTANT will maintain full and accurate records with
respect to all services and matters covered under this Agreement. CITY will have free
access at all reasonable times to such records, and the right to examine and audit the
same and to make transcript therefrom, and to inspect all program data, documents,
proceedings and activities. CONSULTANT will retain such financial and program
service records for at least three (3) years after termination or final payment under this
Agreement.
22. INSURANCE.
A. Before commencing performance under this Agreement, and at all other
times this Agreement is effective, CONSULTANT will procure and
maintain the following types of insurance with coverage limits complying,
at a minimum, with the limits set forth below:
Tvi)e of Insurance Limits
Commercial general liability: $2,000,000 (aggregate)
Professional Liability $1,000,000
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Business automobile liability $1,000,000 (hired and non -
owned)
Workers compensation Statutory requirement
B. Commercial general liability insurance will meet or exceed the
requirements of the most recent ISO -CGL Form. The amount of
insurance set forth above will be a combined single limit per occurrence
for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage for the policy
coverage. Liability policies will be endorsed to name CITY, its officials,
and employees as "additional insureds" under said insurance coverage
and to state that such insurance will be deemed "primary" such that any
other insurance that may be carried by CITY will be excess thereto. Such
endorsement must be reflected on ISO Form No. CG 20 10 11 85 or 88, or
equivalent. Such insurance will be on an "occurrence," not a "claims
made," basis and will not be cancelable or subject to reduction except
upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to CITY.
C. Professional liability coverage will be on an "occurrence basis" if such
coverage is available, or on a "claims made" basis if not available. When
coverage is provided on a "claims made basis," CONSULTANT will
continue to renew the insurance for a period of three (3) years after this
Agreement expires or is terminated. Such insurance will have the same
coverage and limits as the policy that was in effect during the term of this
Agreement and will cover CONSULTANT for all claims made by CITY
arising out of any errors or omissions of CONSULTANT, or its officers,
employees or agents during the time this Agreement was in effect.
D. Automobile coverage will be written on ISO Business Auto Coverage Form
CA 00 01 06 92, including symbol 1 (Any Auto).
E. CONSULTANT will furnish to CITY duly authenticated Certificates of
Insurance evidencing maintenance of the insurance required under this
Agreement and such other evidence of insurance or copies of policies as
may be reasonably required by CITY from time to time. Insurance must
be placed with insurers with a current A.M. Best Company Rating
equivalent to at least a Rating of "AMI."
F. Should CONSULTANT, for any reason, fail to obtain and maintain the
insurance required by this Agreement, CITY may obtain such coverage at
CONSULTANT's expense and deduct the cost of such insurance from
payments due to CONSULTANT under this Agreement or terminate
pursuant to Section 15,
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23. USE OF SUBCONTRACTORS. CONSULTANT must obtain CITY's prior written
approval to use any consultants while performing any portion of this Agreement. Such
approval must approve of the proposed consultant and the terms of compensation.
24. INCIDENTAL TASKS. CONSULTANT will meet with CITY monthly to provide the
status on the project, which will include a schedule update and a short narrative
description of progress during the past month for each major task, a description of the
work remaining and a description of the work to be done before the next schedule
update.
25. NOTICES. All communications to either party by the other party will be deemed
made when received by such party at its respective name and address as follows:
If to CONSULTANT:
Utility Cost Management LLC
1100 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 126
Fresno, CA 93711
Attention: Chris Wiehl
Phone: 559-261-9237
Email: c kvdW,,uti i it %,cost manaaeme nt. con,
If to CITY.
City of El Segundo
350 Main Street
El Segundo, CA
Attention: Joe Lillio, Director
Phone: (310) 524-2315
Email: illllio@elsegundo.org
Any such written communications by mail will be conclusively deemed to have been
received by the addressee upon deposit thereof in the United States Mail, postage
prepaid and properly addressed as noted above. In all other instances, notices will be
deemed given at the time of actual delivery. Changes may be made in the names or
addresses of persons to whom notices are to be given by giving notice in the manner
prescribed in this paragraph.
26. CONFLICT OF INTEREST, CONSULTANT will comply with all conflict of interest
laws and regulations including, without limitation, CITY's conflict of interest regulations.
27. SOLICITATION. CONSULTANT maintains and warrants that it has not employed
nor retained any company or person, other than CONSULTANT'S bona fide employee,
to solicit or secure this Agreement. Further, CONSULTANT warrants that it has not
paid nor has it agreed to pay any company or person, other than CONSULTANT's bona
fide employee, any fee, commission, percentage, brokerage fee, gift or other
consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award or making of this Agreement.
Should CONSULTANT breach or violate this warranty, CITY may rescind this
Agreement without liability.
28.THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. This Agreement and every provision herein is
generally for the exclusive benefit of CONSULTANT and CITY and not for the benefit of
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any other party. There will be no incidental or other beneficiaries of any of
CONSULTANT's or CITY's obligations under this Agreement.
29. INTERPRETATION, This Agreement was drafted in and will be construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of California, and exclusive venue for any action
involving this agreement will be in Los Angeles County,
30. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. CONSULTANT agrees to comply with all federal, state,
and local laws applicable to this Agreement.
31. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement, and its Exhibit(s), sets forth the entire
understanding of the parties. There are no other understandings, terms or other
agreements expressed or implied, oral or written. This Agreement will bind and inure to
the benefit of the parties to this Agreement and any subsequent successors and
assigns.
32. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION. Each Party had the opportunity to independently
review this Agreement with legal counsel, Accordingly, this Agreement will be
construed simply, as a whole, and in accordance with its fair meaning; it will not be
interpreted strictly for or against either Party.
31SEVERABILITY. If any portion of this Agreement is declared by a court of
competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable, then such portion will be deemed
modified to the extent necessary in the opinion of the court to render such portion
enforceable and, as so modified, such portion and the balance of this Agreement will
continue in full force and effect.
34.AUTHORITY/MODIFICATION. The Parties represent and warrant that all necessary
action has been taken by the Parties to authorize the undersigned to execute this
Agreement and to engage in the actions described herein. This Agreement may be
modified by written amendment,
35.ACCEPTANCE OF ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES. The Parties agree that this
Agreement, agreements ancillary to this Agreement, and related documents to be
entered into in connection with this Agreement will be considered signed when the
signature of a party is delivered by electronic (.pdo or facsimile transmission. Such
electronic or facsimile signature will be treated in all respects as having the same effect
as an original signature.
36. CAPTIONS. The captions of the paragraphs of this Agreement are for convenience
of reference only and will not affect the interpretation of this Agreement.
37. TIME IS OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence for each and every provision of this
Agreement.
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38. FORCE MAJEURE. Should performance of this Agreement be prevented due to fire,
flood, explosion, acts of terrorism, war, embargo, government action, civil or military
authority, the natural elements, or other similar causes beyond the Parties' reasonable
control, then the Agreement will immediately terminate without obligation of either party
to the other.
39.STATEMENT OF EXPERIENCE. By executing this Agreement, CONSULTANT
represents that it has demonstrated trustworthiness and possesses the quality, fitness
and capacity to perform the Agreement in a manner satisfactory to CITY.
CONSULTANT represents that its financial resources, surety and insurance experience,
service experience, completion ability, personnel, current workload, experience in
dealing with private consultants, and experience in dealing with public agencies all
suggest that CONSULTANT is capable of performing the proposed contract and has a
demonstrated capacity to deal fairly and effectively with and to satisfy a public CITY.
[Signatures on next page]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have executed this Agreement the
day and year first hereinabove written,
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO
001
Joe Lill'
Finance Director
ATTEST: t 4
Tracy Weaver,
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
for
Mark D. Hensley,
City Attorney JL
4/17/2020
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UTILIT ST MAN LLC
Chris i hl
VP of Marketing & Sales & Field Analyst
Agreement No. 5900
EXHIBIT A - AGREEMENT
This agreement is made by and between Utility Cost Management LLC ("UCM") and the entity signing below ("Client") as
follows:
1. Applicable to Client's Utility Accounts. Unless otherwise stated in an addendum initialed by both parties, this
Agreement will apply to all water, sewer, garbage, gas and electricity accounts (and any related utility user taxes, other
taxes, assessments, surcharges or fees) with respect to which Client:
(a) is receiving utility service as of the Effective Date (as defined below),
(b) has received utility service within three years prior to the Effective Date,
(c) receives utility service within one year after the Effective Date, or
(d) has permitted or authorized UCM to obtain a copy of the utility bill.
The water, sewer, garbage, gas and electric accounts described in this paragraph are hereinafter referred to as "Utility
Accounts". The "Effective Date", as that term is used above, is the first day of the calendar month after both UCM and
Client have signed this Agreement.
2. Client to Provide Utility Bills. Oil or promptly after Client's execution of this Agreement, Client will provide UCM
with a copy of at least one month's utility bills for all of Client's Utility Accounts.
3. UCM Authorized to Obtain Information on Utility Accounts. UCM is hereby authorized to obtain information
relating to the Utility Accounts directly from utility provider personnel and utility provider web sites. If site visits are
necessary, UCM will first obtain proper authorization.
4. UCM's Findings Letter. UCM will use its best efforts to identify the basis for any refunds, credits or Future Savings (as
defined below) on Client's Utility Accounts. UCM will send one or more a "Findings Letters" to Client that generally
sets forth the basis for any refunds, credits or Future Savings identified by UCM. UCM may, from time to time,
supplement or amend the Findings Letter.
5. Steps to Obtain Refunds or Savings. UCM is authorized by Client to take steps to obtain the refunds, credits or Future
Savings identified in the Findings Letter. Such steps may include, but are not limited to, communicating, negotiating and
dealing with utility providers (or, in the case of utility user taxes or other governmental charges, the appropriate
government entity), and seeking relief from the California Public Utilities Commission in a complaint proceeding or other
proceeding.
6. Cooperation By Client. Client will cooperate with UCM, as reasonable, in UCM's efforts to carry out the purposes and
intent of this Agreement. Such cooperation will include, but not be limited to, providing information upon request by
UCM concerning Client's utility expenditures, utility service and operations.
7. UCM's Compensation.
Client will pay UCM after Client has received refunds, credits, and Future Savings pursuant to the terms set forth in both
(a) and (b) below.
(a) Refunds or Credits. If Client receives a refund or credit that was identified in the Findings Letter, then Client will
pay to UCM 30% of the amount refunded or credited. The amount of the refund or credit for this purpose will
include all amounts refunded or credited (including any portion attributable to interest) for any overcharges that were
incurred by Client prior to the date that the overcharges no longer appeared on the Client's utility bill. Payment of
UCM's 30% compensation is due within 30 days of the date Client has received verified refunds & credits.
(b) Future Savings. If Client obtains Future Savings that were identified in the Findings Letter, then Client will pay
UCM 30% of such Future Savings that accrue during a Four -Year Savings Period. "Future Savings" is the amount
by which Client's charges on its Utility Accounts are reduced as a result of a change in the billing rate, calculation,
method or procedure. Future Savings will be calculated as the difference between the amount Client was billed on
its Utility Accounts during the Four -Year Savings Period, and the amount that it would have been billed on its Utility
Accounts during the Four -Year Savings Period if there had been no change in its billing rate, calculation, method or
procedure. The Four -Year Savings Period begins on the date that the change in the billing rate, calculation, method
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or procedure is first reflected on Client's utility bill, and ends four years thereafter. UCM will submit invoices
periodically to Client for payment based on the Future Savings as they accrue. The invoices will verify (a) that
Future Savings have actually been realized by Client, and (b) the amount of such Future Savings. The compensation
under this subparagraph will not include compensation for Future Savings that are: (a) the result of a reduction in the
amount of utility usage by Client, or (b) the result of Client's utilization of a different utility supplier that provides
lower cost utility service. Payment of UCM's 30% compensation is due within 30 days of the date Client has
received verified Future Savings.
(c) Client's Prior Knowledge of Basis For Refund, Credit, or Future Savings. Client is not obligated to pay UCM
pursuant to this paragraph for any refund, credit or Future Savings received by Client for which Client had submitted
to the utility provider a written claim prior to the date of UCM's Findings Letter, However, Client is obligated to
pay UCM pursuant to this paragraph whether or not Client knew of the basis for the refund, credit or Future Savings
prior to the date of UCM's Findings Letter, and whether or not Client's receipt of the refund, credit or Future
Savings was the result of steps taken by UCM or others, including attorneys.
8. Term; Effect. The term of this Agreement is four (4) years from the date of execution by the Client, or 7 days after
either party provides written notice of termination to the other party, whichever is earlier. Upon termination, UCM will
cease all work on behalf of Client. However, if termination occurs after UCM has sent its Findings Letter to Client, then
Client will remain obligated to pay UCM, pursuant to this Agreement, for any refunds, credits or Future Savings that
were identified in the Findings Letter and that are thereafter obtained by Client. UCM may continue to obtain and review
Client's utility billing and other information following termination in order to periodically verify whether Client has
obtained a refund, credit or Future Savings that was identified in the Findings Letter.
9. If Client Is Not Utility Customer. By providing a copy of any utility bill to UCM, Client is thereby agreeing that the
Utility Account represented by such bill will be governed by this Agreement, regardless of whether or not Client is the
Utility Customer with respect to such Utility Account. For purposes of this Agreement, the Utility Customer is the entity
that (i) is named on the Utility Account as reflected by the utility bill, (ii) receives the utility service on the Utility
Account, (iii) pays for or is liable for the charges on the Utility Account, or (iv) is the owner of the property at which the
utility service is provided on the Utility Account. If Client is not the Utility Customer for a Utility Account then, with
respect to that Utility Account, Client represents that it is signing this Agreement in its capacity as agent for the Utility
Customer, and as such is authorized to legally bind the Utility Customer to the terms of this Agreement. Client further
agrees that the terms of this Agreement will be equally binding on both Client and Customer, that all references in this
Agreement to "Client" will also be deemed to be references to the Utility Customer, and that Client and the Utility
Customer will be jointly and severally liable for payment of UCM's compensation under this Agreement.
10. No Legal Services. Client acknowledges and understands that: (1) Only an attorney can Provide legal services or advice,
(2) UCM is not an attorney or law firm, and does not and will not provide legal services or advice, (3) UCM does not and
will not act as an attorney for Client or any other person, (4) Nothing in this Agreement, and no act, omission or
statement by UCM, or its owners or employees, will be construed to create an attorney-client relationship between UCM
and Client or any other person, (5) UCM is not subject to the California Rules of Professional Conduct, which govern the
conduct of attorneys, and (6) Client should consult an attorney if it wishes to receive legal services or advice.
11. Disclosure of Information. UCM may obtain information that pertains to Client's business, operations, or affairs,
including but not limited to its utility charges and utility usage. Client expressly authorizes UCM to use and disclose
such information to others as necessary or convenient to carry out the services contemplated by this Agreement.
12. Release of Claims Against UCM. Client acknowledges and agrees that UCM has made no express or implied
representation or warranty that it will be successful in identifying or obtaining any refunds, credits, or Future Savings on
Client's Utility Accounts. Client hereby covenants not to bring any action for damages against UCM that is based upon or
relates to any failure by UCM to identify or obtain refunds, credits, or Future Savings to which Client was or is entitled.
13. Representations Made By Client. It may become necessary for Client to make certain representations to the utility
provider or other entity in order obtain refunds, credits or Future Savings identified by UCM in its Findings Letter.
Client hereby warrants that any such representations made by Client will be true and correct in all respects.
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14. Late Payment Penalty. If payment of any invoice is not received in accordance with Section 7, then interest on the
amount owing will accrue at the rate of 1% per month (prorated on a daily basis). Interest will continue to accrue at 1%
per month (prorated on a daily basis) on the entire amount due until paid in full.
15. Applicable Law. This Agreement is executed in and intended to be performed in the State of California, and the laws of
that state will govern its interpretation and effect.
16. Venue. Venue in any legal action arising from or related to this agreement will be Fresno County, California.
17. Paragraph References. A reference to a "paragraph" of this Agreement includes both the numbered paragraph, as well
the subparagraphs, if any, that are part of such paragraph. Subparagraphs are designated by lower case letters (e.g., "(a)",
"(b)", 4'(c) 11).
18. Severability. If any term, provision, covenant, or condition of this Agreement is held by a court of competent
jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the rest of the agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall
in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated.
19. Interpretation. In construing this Agreement, no consideration shall be given to the fact or presumption that any party
had a greater or lesser hand in drafting of this Agreement.
20. Entire Agreement. This instrument contains the entire Agreement of the parties relating to the rights granted and
obligations assumed in this instrument. Any oral representations or modifications concerning this instrument shall be of
no force or effect unless contained in a subsequent written modification signed by the party to be charged
21. Signor Authorized to Bind Client. The individual signing this agreement on behalf of Client hereby represents and
war -rants that he/she is authorized to sign on behalf of the Client and to legally bind Client to the terms of this Agreement.
UTILITY COST MANAGEMENT LLC
Print Client Name
By: By:
Signature Signature
Print Name Print Name
Title Title
Date Date
Initials: Initials:
Agreement No. 5900
EXHIBIT B
Proposal for
SCE Electricity Bill Audit
for
City of El Segundo
by
Utility Cost Management LLC
Agreement No. 5900
A. Scope of Work
When UCM opened for business in 1991, it started by reviewing bills for a variety of small retail
establishments. In the early 1990's, the business grew gradually, working with mid-sized
commercial customers, such as shopping centers, real estate companies, office buildings, and
multifamily housing providers.
By 1995, the firm began attracting the attention of school districts, colleges, and universities.
UCM eventually analyzed the bills for hundreds of educational sites that serve more than one
million California students, including the University of California, Berkeley.
UCM's work for public educational institutions lead to its involvement in the State of California's
Utility Bill Auditing Program in 1997. In a statewide search for capable utility auditing firms
conducted by the California Department of General Services, UCM received the highest point
total of any bidder. This project proved to be a milestone in UCM's development for two
reasons. First, the sheer size of the project established UCM as capable of handling even the
largest, most geographically diverse clients. Second, the project enhanced a long relationship
with public entities that continues to this day. In 2008, the California Special Districts
Association (CSDA) selected UCM for its Bill Auditing project for its members. 12 years later,
UCM is still working on this project for CSDA members.
Since 1997, UCM's public entity clients have included approximately 90 cities including the Citv
of El Segundo back in 2008 (see attached letter of recommendation), 30 community service
districts, 40 water districts and agencies, 12 recreation and park districts, two counties, five
departments of the State of California (Department of Corrections, Department of Consumer
Affairs, Military Department, Department of General Services, State Lottery Commission), and
25 school and college districts.
The scope of services provided by UCM for all of these past public entity clients is described
further below.
1. Objective
UCM's objective on this project will be to identify and obtain all refunds and ongoing savings
opportunities on the City's Southern California Edison (SCE) electricity bill and to measure and
verify those savings over the life of the contract. Furthermore, we aim to accomplish this
objective without imposing significant demands on City staff.
2. Tasks, approach, and brief description
Fact-finding: UCM gathers and organizes historical billing information on the SCE accounts
serving City facilities.
The simplest and most effective way to complete the fact-finding stage begins with the City
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Agreement No. 5900
providing one copv of all SCE electricity bills. From there, UCM utilizes a "Customer
Information Release Form" authorizing SCE to release historical billing data directly to UCM.
This form is required by the utilities in accordance with CPUC directives. By utilizing this
Customer Information Release Form, we avoid the need for significant involvement by City
personnel in performing most of our fact-finding work.
If the City cannot provide one copy of each utility bill, it is possible for UCM to rely solely on
the release form to complete its fact-finding efforts. However, if we adopt this approach, we
require a list of the utility SCE account numbers serving each facility.
Another option, if we are given access to files containing past utility bills, is for UCM to gather
necessary information directly from the City's files. No City personnel are needed to assist with
this effort. In this situation, the release form mentioned above is used to supplement information
gathered.
Site Reviews: If necessary, UCM visits City locations to gather additional information. These
site visits are sometimes helpful in verifying billing practices, metering configurations, or areas
served by different accounts. Other than authorizing and providing physical access to the site
under review, there is typically no involvement required from City staff on site reviews.
Utility Bill Analysis: UCM analyzes the data accumulated in light of applicable tariffs, statutes,
and CPUC decisions. All City SCE accounts are reviewed to determine whether they are being
billed appropriately, and whether they have been billed appropriately in the past. UCM's analysis
includes, but is not limited to, the investigation of billing calculations, inapplicable rate
schedules, proper metering of services, optional rates, applicability of taxes and surcharges,
baseline and lifeline allowance calculations, meter multipliers, and the applicability of all rules
and regulations affecting billing.
UCM uses a proprietary software program that we developed to compare the financial impact of
the myriad rate choices under various scenarios of future usage characteristics. Historical billing
data is normally the starting point for estimating expected future usage characteristics. However,
we believe that obtaining an understanding of how and why a customer uses electricity, at any
particular facility gives us additional insight into potential future usage scenarios, which in turn
may affect our rate recommendations.
We believe that UCM's analysis of SCE rates and tariffs is unique in that we do more than just
compare potential rate options. Instead, we review the rates and tariffs in-depth, looking for
areas where the utilities may be misapplying them. During the course of an audit we may come
across a tariff provision that is new, different or unusual. This might lead us to conduct research
into the background, purpose and intent behind the tariff provision to aid in our understanding of
how it was meant to be applied in practice. This research may entail investigating the legislative
history, enabling statutes, CPUC decisions and resolutions, utility advice letters, and other
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Agreement No. 5900
documentation related to the tariff provision. Furthermore, customers are often surprised to learn
that tariffs are not always clear and unambiguous. In fact, over the years we have found that
ambiguities often exist in the tariff language. SCE often apply these ambiguities in their own
favor, even though CPUC decisions clearly state that tariff ambiguities should be interpreted in
favor of the crrstoiner. We make a point of spotting these tariff ambiguities and ensuring that
they are applied in favor of our clients.
During the analysis phase, questions about specific accounts sometimes arise. The most
common questions concern what facilities are served by a particular account and whether the
City has any reason to expect future usage characteristics on the account to vary dramatically
from past usage characteristics. Questions and responses are normally handled via email, and
require an insignificant amount of time from the City.
Utility Bill Report Submission: UCM submits a Findings Report summarizing the findings of
its review. The report contains an explanation of the grounds for all refund and savings
opportunities identified for each SCE account, including calculations of the estimated savings
and refunds expected to be achieved. When necessary, UCM prepares all forms required to
initiate changes to utility accounts. If unresolved issues remain after the initial report
submission, UCM keeps the City apprised of new developments
Utility Bill Implementation of Changes/Recovery of Refunds: UCM takes all necessary steps
to implement recommended changes and collect refunds for past overcharges. This work
includes preparing documentation supporting UCM's requests and meeting with SCE personnel
to discuss each request. UCM also negotiates with SCE authorities to ensure that refund
calculations are acceptable and are paid to the City in a timely manner. Once a rate change or a
refund has been approved, we notify the City of this development. If UCM believes a utility
provider has unfairly denied any request on behalf of a City, we may, with the City's permission,
appeal the utility's decision to the CPUC.
No involvement from City staff is required for the implementation of rate changes and refund
requests, except that the City must authorize UCM to make the rate changes or refund requests
that are described in the Findings Report.
The scope of UCM's work for its clients (including all of its past public entity clients) has always
included not just requesting rate changes or refunds for the client, but also actually obtaining
them. In other words, we submit requests for rate changes as well as any refund requests; we
work closely and collegially with SCE personnel to obtain the requested rate change or refund
from SCE voluntarily; and if SCE denies the rate change or refund request, then we may, with
the City's permission, pursue the requests at the CPUC.
Ongoing Consultation, Measurement & Verification, and Invoicing: Because utility rates
and regulations are constantly changing, UCM continues to advise its clients of new savings
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Agreement No. 5900
opportunities that arise after our initial review, for as long as we share in the savings under the
terms of the agreement. Similarly, clients' utility usage characteristics often change over time.
We continue to monitor City utility usage characteristics during the contract term and may
recommend new savings opportunities that arise from these changes.
During the period of shared savings, UCM sends invoices every three months that set forth
UCM's measurement and verification of the client's savings. This measurement and verification
uses the City's actual billing inputs during the period covered by the invoice. Based on these
actual billing inputs, we calculate the amount the City would have paid if they had remained on
their old rate schedule. We then subtract from this the amount the City actually paid on their
newly -assigned rate. The difference is the amount saved by the City during the three-month
invoice period.
Since UCM obtains billing input data directly from the utility provider, very little involvement
from City staff is required for invoicing and measurement and verification of savings.
3. Work Product
The written work product from the above tasks will be as follows.
Findings Report: The Findings Report states the expected amount of any refunds and ongoing
savings identified. For identified refunds, the Findings Report describes the justification for the
refunds by making reference to supporting tariffs, statutes or CPUC decisions. For identified
ongoing savings, the Findings Report recommends the specific rate schedule or rate option the
City should switch to, the tariff justification for making the switch, and the estimated ongoing
savings that will result from the switch.
Invoices: Since our fee is calculated based on the savings achieved, we believe it is critical to
verify that savings have actually been achieved and to provide the City with detailed support for
how we calculated those savings. This support is contained in the invoices we send to the City
every three months. We calculate savings as the difference between the amount the client
actually paid on the newly -assigned rate schedule during the invoice period (three months) and
the amount they would have paid on the old rate schedule during the same period. Determining
what the client "would have paid" on the old rate schedule requires that we apply the City's
actual billing inputs (including usage, demand, time -of -use shares, connected load, taxes,
surcharges etc.) during the invoice period to the old rate schedule. UCM's proprietary invoicing
software makes this calculation simple and accurate, and allows for a very detailed, but easy -to -
read, presentation of these calculations on the invoice itself.
4. Meetings
We are more than happy to meet with City personnel, at the City's request, at any time and for
any reason. However, such meetings are typically not required for UCM to perform its services.
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Agreement No. 5900
Therefore, we do not anticipate the need for meetings in the course of providing our services to
the City unless the City wants them. We would, of course, provide regular email and/or phone
updates to City personnel to keep them apprised of our progress on the project and to address any
specific issues as they arise.
5. Sole Source Justification
While there are many small vendors providing utility bill auditing services throughout the United
States, these vendors generally focus on their local service areas because electricity rates and
regulations are set on a state -by -state basis. In California, no other vendors have significant
experience with public agencies, and none have been active in challenging utility regulations at
the CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission) — two essential aspects of the proposed work
for the City.
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Agreement No. 5900
B. Firm Qualifications and Experience
The UCM staff assigned to this project will be Michael Kerkorian, Dara Kerkorian, Chris Wiehl,
and Beth Rogers.
Michael Kerkorian
Specific tasks assigned: Overall project management, analysis of SCE and CPUC data,
organizing and drafting of written report, negotiations with SCE, creation of computer financial
model, presentation of findings, coordination with CPUC.
Job classification: Managing Member of UCM
Academic decrees and professional registrations: Bachelor of Science, (Stanford University
1988); Member of Association of Energy Engineers; Certified Energy Auditor (CEA)
Number of vears of utilitv audit experience: 29 years
In 1991, Michael Kerkorian founded Utility Cost Management LLC (UCM). Today, Michael
serves as UCM's Managing Member and is responsible for the firm's efforts to reduce clients'
costs through the informed application of utility rates and regulations. While he has continued to
work in all facets of UCM's business, he has developed a special expertise in electricity rate and
tariff issues.
Michael has analyzed utility charges for more than one thousand California utility customers.
He has successfully resolved numerous rate and tariff issues on behalf of clients, through
negotiations with utilities and through CPUC intervention. He has directly supervised the
payment of more than $50 million dollars in utility refunds to UCM clients, and has been
responsible for initiating rate changes to utility accounts that have reduced clients' ongoing costs
by more than $100 million.
Michael has testified before the CPUC more than a dozen times, and has also testified on utility -
related issues in California Superior Court. He has represented various parties in the CPUC's
GRC process, requiring him to analyze utility company costs to evaluate requested utility rate
increases. Through this work, Michael has developed an in-depth understanding of utility cost
accounting methods. Michael also led a team that was selected by the CPUC to investigate, and
report on, the billing practices of an electric service provider with 100,000 customers.
Michael has initiated and been involved in many CPUC proceedings that have resulted in
important changes to rates and policies affecting California's agricultural, multifamily, low-
income, governmental, and commercial customers. These changes frequently have had far-
reaching impacts benefitting thousands of utility customers. He has authored articles and given
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Agreement No. 5900
presentations on utility rate reductions for various organizations, including the Institute of Real
Estate Managers, the Association of Housing Management Agents, the Western Growers
Association, the California Special Districts Association, and the California Municipal Revenue
& Tax Association. In May 2014, Michael was the featured speaker at the California Street
Light Association's annual conference for Southern California, and gave a presentation on street
light purchase opportunities with SCE.
Before founding Utility Cost Management, Michael served as a Senior Consultant in the San
Francisco office of Peterson Consulting, where he worked primarily in the area of forensic
accounting in a litigation support role. His assignments included financial analysis of CPUC
filings of the firm's largest client, Pacific Gas & Electric Company.
Dara Kerkorian
Specific tasks assigned: Regulatory research, analysis of SCE and CPUC data, statistical
analyses
Job classification: Analyst
Academic degrees and professional registrations: Bachelor of Arts (Stanford University 1984);
M.S. in Social Welfare (Columbia University 1992); Ph.D. in Social Welfare (Columbia
University 2003)
Number of vears of utilitv audit experience: 14 years
Dara joined UCM in 2006 and has played a key role in all facets of the organization: auditing,
tariff analysis and regulatory research, and advocacy before the CPUC. As lead auditor, she has
performed and overseen the completion of hundreds of utility audits for UCM clients served by
SCE.
While her knowledge of the tariffs of California's four major utilities (i.e. PG&E, SCE, SCG,
and SDG&E) is extensive, she is also has undertaken numerous research projects involving
regulatory cases and CPUC decisions related to policy and rate structure of California electric,
gas, and water utilities. Her tariff analysis and research has resulted in her playing a key role in
UCM's advocacy work before the CPUC. This work resulted in the clarification of tariff
language and/or changes in the structure and application of specific rate schedules. One of these
cases, taken to the CPUC on behalf of the Pleasant Valley Park and Recreation District,
succeeded in modifying eligibility criteria for one of SCE's rates and saving the park district
thousands of dollars.
E3
Agreement No. 5900
Chris Wiehl
Specific tasks assigned: Field surveys
Job classification: V.P. of Marketing & Sales & Field Analyst
Academic decrees and professional registrations: Bachelor of Arts (University of California,
Los Angeles 1989); Certified PG&E Energy Efficiency Specialist
Number of vears of utilitv audit experience: 22 years
Chris joined UCM in 1998, just after the firm was selected by the State to provide utility bill
auditing services to public entities throughout California. Chris' first assignment with UCM was
to lead the marketing and administrative efforts under the state project. Under his guidance,
UCM eventually worked with more than 100 public entities, and the state extended the project
for an additional three years. Over the years, Chris has continued to play an important role in
UCM's marketing and customer service efforts.
In recent years, Chris has taken a lead role in working with UCM clients who are considering
purchasing or upgrading their street light systems. As a result, Chris has developed an in-depth
understanding of street light issues and how California's major utilities implement street light
rates and regulations. In May 2014, Chris was the featured speaker at the Northern California
annual conference of the California Street Light Association, where he presented information on
new policies and regulations affecting street lights.
Prior to joining UCM, Chris was a manager with Richard Heath & Associates, a firm that
administers programs for California's public utilities, among others. One of his main
assignments with RHA was to manage PG&E's "Energy Partners" program.
Beth Rogers
Specific tasks assigned: Invoicing, measurement and verification of savings, collection of billing
data, implementation of rate changes and refund requests
Job classification: Accounts Receivable, Administrative Support
Beth joined UCM in 2000. Initially, her primary tasks involved supporting UCM's efforts in
CPUC proceedings, and performing various administrative and research tasks. For the past 18
years, she has been in charge three areas that are critical to a well-conducted audit: (1) collection
and organization of billing data, (2) implementation of rate changes and refund requests to utility
providers, and (3) invoicing and measurement and verification. Over the years, Beth has
developed sound working relationships with her counterparts at the utility providers, which helps
her in deftly navigating the utility organizations to quickly and efficiently procure billing data
p]
Agreement No. 5900
and obtain utilities' approval of requested rate changes and refunds.
C. Public Entities Audited: Since 1997, UCM's public entity clients have included
approximately 90 cities, 30 community service districts, 40 water districts and agencies, 12
recreation and park districts, two counties, five departments of the State of California
(Department of Corrections, Department of Consumer Affairs, Military Department, Department
of General Services, State Lottery Commission), and more than 20 school and college districts.
The following is a partial list of some of UCM's public entity clients.
Arrowbear County Water
District
California Military Dept. /
National Guard
Central Contra Costa Sanitary
District
City of Apple Valley
City of Bell Gardens
City of Canyon Lake
City of Cudahy
City of Duarte
City of Exeter
City of Gardena
City of Imperial Beach
City of Laguna Hills
City of Lynwood
City of Monterey Park
City of Oceanside
City of Paso Robles
City of Rialto
City of San Marcos
City of Santee
City of Stanton
City of Tulare
City of Yorba Linda
County of San Luis Obispo
Hayward Unified School
District
Lamont Public Utilities
District
Metropolitan Water District of
Southern California
Pajaro Valley Water
Berkeley Unified School
District
California Public Utilities
Commission
Chico Area Recreation & Park
District
City of Baldwin Park
City of Buena Park
City of Chula Vista
City of Culver City
City of El Segundo
City of Fountain Valley
City of Hercules
City of Inglewood
City of Lake Elsinore
City of McFarland
City of Moreno Valley
City of Orange
City of Port Hueneme
City of Ridgecrest
City of Santa Clarita
City of South El Monte
City of Susanville
City of Upland
Contra Costa Community
College District
Fallbrook Public Utilities
District
Hi -Desert Water District
Laton Community Services
District
Nipomo Community Services
District
Pebble Beach Community
10
California Lottery
Commission
Castaic Lake Water Agency
City of Adelanto
City of Barstow
City of California City
City of Claremont
City of Downey
City of Encinitas
City of Garden Grove
City of Highland
City of Long Beach
City of Lakewood
City of Montclair
City of Newport Beach
City of Paramount
City of Rancho Mirage
City of San Gabriel
City of Santa Barbara
City of South Gate
City of Tehachapi
City of Visalia
Costa Mesa Sanitary District
Goleta Sanitary District
Kern Community College
District
Livermore Area Rec. & Park
District
Olivehain Municipal Water
District
Peralta Community College
Management Agency
Pleasant Valley Rec & Park
District
San Mateo County Harbor
District
South San Luis Obispo
County Sanitation District
State of California, Dept. of
General Services
University of California,
Berkeley
Western Municipal Water
District
Services District
Ross Valley Sanitary District
Santa Margarita Water District
State of California, Dept.
Consumer Affairs
State of California, Dept.
Health Services
Valley -Wide Rec. & Park
District
Agreement No. 5900
District
Rubidoux Community
Services District
South Coast Water District
of State of California, Dept. of
Corrections
of Stockton East Water District
West County Wastewater
District
As noted above, since 2008, UCM has been an "Endorsed Affiliate" of the California Special
Districts Association (CSDA). UCM and CSDA continue to work together to bring quality
utility bill auditing services to many CSDA members. CSDA selected UCM as its exclusive
utility bill auditing vendor after a thorough search for qualified vendors. For more information
on UCM's work with CSDA, please see their attached letter of recommendation.
For your review, we have also included a California Cities & Special District client lists.
D. Exhibit A — Agreement — see attached.
11
We estimate the following timeline for Utility Bill Auditing project.
Time from contract signing...
1 week
2 weeks
4 weeks
6 weeks
8 weeks
9 weeks
12 weeks
16 weeks
30 weeks
173weeks
Chris Wiehl
Vice President of Marketing & Sales
Utilitv Cost Management LLC (UCM)
12
Agreement No. 5900
Task to be completed...
1.UCM obtains copies of one month's utility
bills.
2.UCM conducts initial analysis of all bills.
3.UCM obtains historical billing records from
utility provider for those accounts that
require historical analysis.
4.Site visits, if any, are completed.
5.UCM sends Findings Report to City.
6.UCM obtains City's approval to pursue
recommend rate changes or refund requests.
TUCM obtains utility provider's approval of
rate changes or refunds identified in the
Findings Report.
8.Utility rate changes are implemented and
rgflecled on Otv'S wility bills.
9.UCM sends first invoice to City covering
prior three months of savings. Under the fee
proposal submitted herein, invoices would
continue to be sent every three months for
three years.
10. Final invoice sent to City. UCM's
ongoing monitoring of rates ceases.