Approve a Consultant Service Agreement with Commune Communication Corp. for Marketing Support Services at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH) through July 31, 2029, with the option of two (2) one-year extensions for an amount not to exceed $600,000 (Bid File 12500351) (Council District 4)

REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM: MARK THORPE, Director of Aviation Airports Department BY: JOSHUA CASTELLANO-GONZALEZ, Assistant Director of Finance and Administration Airports Department SUBJECT ..Title Approve a Consultant Service Agreement with Commune Communication Corp. for Marketing Support Services at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH) through July 31, 2029, with the option of two (2) one-year extensions for an amount not to exceed $600,000 (Bid File 12500351) (Council District 4) ..Body RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends Council approve the award of a Consultant Service Agreement with Commune Communication Corp. for Marketing Support Services at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH) through July 31, 2029, with the option of two (2) one-year extensions for an amount not to exceed $600,000, and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute the agreement and all related documents on behalf of the City of Fresno. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Fresno, Airports Department (Airports Department), solicited proposals through the Request for Proposals (RFP) Bid File 12500351, competitive bid process for Marketing Support Services. The purpose of this multi-year agreement for consultant services is to support and increase continued marketing efforts heavily focused on generating awareness of FAT’s air service options and its strategic position as the commercial air service airport of choice and air gateway for the Central Valley region of California. Additional efforts will focus on extending reach for potential audiences further in FAT’s catchment area to the north and south (Modesto to Bakersfield). Expanded marketing campaigns may include digital media, radio, print advertising, and website content support. Marketing support will also include efforts to stimulate and increase local and regional use of Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH) through various marketing initiatives. With this support, the Airports Department will be able to expand its marketing, advertising, media relations, and community outreach efforts using several platforms to promote new airline routes, air service options, airport events and programs, and general airport support services. BACKGROUND On September 3, 2024, the Airports Department issued Request for Proposals (RFP) for Marketing Support Services at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH). The Airports Department received twelve (12) RFPs from prospective proposers by the 3:00 PM October 8, 2024, deadline. Ten (10) proposals were deemed responsive. The RFPs were evaluated by a committee using the eight criteria listed in the RFP. Virtual interviews of the top three (3) ranked proposals were scheduled. The RFP committee included: City Communications Director Airports Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator Airports Community Coordinator Manager, Marketing | Customer Experience, San Diego International Airport Virtual interviews with the top three (3) ranked firms were conducted May 20, 2025 – June 12, 2025 After completing all three interviews, the committee deliberated on the performance of each of the proposers during the interview phase, and it was agreed that Communication Corp should be selected to provide the scope of services required in the RFP. As a department of the City of Fresno, we consistently strive to partner with local firms whenever possible. However, in this instance, this Request for Proposals (RFP) represents the Airports Department’s solicitation for Marketing and Advertising services to support the development of its first marketing and advertising strategic plan, and significant media buy in years. Because of this, the review committee prioritized firms with demonstrated expertise in aviation-focused marketing strategies and concepts experience within the U.S. airport industry, to maximize the impact of the budget. Among the proposing firms that submitted qualified bids, Commune has provided extensive marketing and advertising advisory services to medium-hub Long Beach Airport (LGB) and large-hub San Antonio International Airport (SAT). This background and industry knowledge distinguished Commune among the three finalist firms as a highly qualified candidate for this engagement. Staff recommends that the City Council approve the agreement with Commune Communication Corp. for a term through July 31, 2029, and total compensation not to exceed $600,000. The City Attorney has approved the Services Agreement as to form, and Risk Management has approved all insurance requirements. ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS This is not a project for the purpose of CEQA pursuant CEQA Guidelines Section 15378. LOCAL PREFERENCE Local preference is not applicable because this amendment is federally funded. FISCAL IMPACT Funding through July 31, 2029, and is not to exceed $600,000. Funding for year one is included in the Airports Department FY27 budget. Funding for subsequent years will be budgeted in future fiscal year budgets. There is no impact to the General Fund on this action. Attachments: Consultant Services Agreement Committee Report