HomeMy WebLinkAboutTripepi Smith BidON-CALL CON SULTING FOR
MARKETING, PUBLIC RELATIONS,
VIDEOGRAPHY, OR PHOTOGRAPHY
SERVICES
City of San Luis Obispo
April 7, 2025
By: Ryder Todd Smith
Co-founder & Principal
Tripepi Smith & Associates
Single Source Communications
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Table of Contents
LETTER OF INTEREST ..................................................................... 3
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE ................................................................ 8
FEE STRUCTURE ........................................................................... 16
CLIENT REFERENCES ................................................................... 20
APPENDIX A: RESUMES ............................................................... 22
APPENDIX B: REQUIRED FORMS & STATEMENTS ................... 25
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LETTER OF INTEREST
Thank you for the opportunity to continue Tripepi Smith’s partnership with the City of San Luis Obispo
for on-call communication services. This proposal offers all requested information, including Tripepi
Smith’s understanding of your needs, our approach to addressing them, our cost proposal and more.
Tripepi Smith has a deep understanding of the City of San Luis Obispo, having supported the City in
various communication efforts since 2020. We are intimately familiar with the City’s brand, voice and
preferred workflows — giving Tripepi Smith the ability to efficiently hit the ground running on all tasks
assigned. We are confident our familiarity, dedication and bandwidth of resources make us the right
partner for the on-call services desired by the City.
Distinguishing/Key Features
No other communications firm has the public agency client depth and diversity that Tripepi Smith offers.
We gain insights from the breadth of our work with our 200+ public agency clients, which yields key
advantages:
Certifications in Industry-Standard Platforms: Our team possesses a deep understanding of
social media and digital platforms, evidenced by our certifications from industry leaders like Meta,
YouTube, X and Meltwater.
Breadth of Expertise: The breadth of Tripepi Smith’s team — from policy to videography to graphic
design — is rare. The result: we have an ability to tell a complete story across all mediums, all within
our one team.
A Deep Understanding of Local Issues: Tripepi Smith’s work with over 200 public agencies and
municipal partners benefits each client as we translate practical field experience into outreach
strategies tailored to their unique circumstances. Moreover, we are known for our mastery of the art
of local government communications.
Integrated Offerings: Tripepi Smith owns two local government publications, PublicCEO and Civic
Business Journal, in which we can promote city news. Together, they boast a subscriber base of over
17,500 city managers, county administrators, public executives and public employees.
Long History of Partnership & Support: We have partnered with the City and supported your
communications over 5 years. We know the players, have built solid relationships and have
experience working with you on key issues. Our continued and enhanced partnership will help
expand the City’s communications practices and achieve key communication goals.
Robust Quality Assurance Practices: With thousands of successful projects delivered, Tripepi
Smith has integrated a robust system of tools and workflows. Whether managing deliverables within
our own team or subcontractors, our iterative review procedures ensure clients receive high-quality,
high-impact work products.
24/7 Access: Tripepi Smith is available to our clients 24 hours per day. There is no “bad time” to call
or email us, and our response will be immediate and engaged on the issue at hand.
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Tripepi Smith’s Areas of Interest in Support of SLO
Tripepi Smith has experience in all facets of San Luis Obispo’s requests as outlined within the RFP. We
affirm our ability to continue supporting your needs in the following areas:
General Communications Support
An array of communication support services may include, but is not limited to:
Press Release & News Article Creation
Our team is seasoned in crafting compelling press releases and news articles, typically up to 500 words,
that will amplify San Luis Obispo's story and establish thought leadership. We tailor our work to your
desired tone and direction, ensuring consistent execution. Collaboration with your staff might be
necessary to ensure subject matter expertise and obtain quote approvals. You can lean on us to
manage the entire content creation cycle, from crafting key messages and conducting interviews to
drafting content and distributing it to your platforms or the media.
Proofreading and Editing
Tripepi Smith staff will be available to proofread and copyedit staff content, whether press releases,
website news articles or external-facing emails as needed. Copyediting will review spelling and
grammar, as well as ensure consistency with San Luis Obispo’s Style Guide parameters.
Social Media Management
Content Creation: Social media content creation involves: planning, fact-checking, sourcing
graphics, grammar checking and scheduling the post. Our team has experience producing
content across Meta (Facebook and Instagram), Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Nextdoor and others.
Additionally, Tripepi Smith has extensive experience in the City’s current social media
management tool, Social Assurance.
Monitoring: Tripepi Smith can monitor the City’s social media site inboxes seven days a week
for customer service opportunities, mainly responding to questions. When we identify an
opportunity to respond, we will aim to do so within 24 hours of the comment post time or
message receipt time. We will occasionally require fact-checking and guidance from the City for
more nuanced responses.
Additional: Our work also includes optimizing social media accounts to enhance performance
and/or take advantage of useful features. "Boosted Posts" and other targeted advertisements
are also helpful in disseminating information to community members. Tripepi Smith is fully
capable of running and tracking these paid campaigns (fees to be agreed upon and paid by the
City).
Monthly Metrics & Analytics Reports
Each month, Tripepi Smith can provide a summary report of the Key Performance Indicators or KPIs
reach, posts, engagement, etc.) related to your controlled social media sites and other key metrics if
available, such as website visits, media mentions and email open/click rates. This will help us evaluate
the success of our efforts, as well as serve as an ongoing feedback mechanism for gathering valuable
insights that can help inform ongoing communication strategy.
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Graphic Design Support
Our diverse design team, from seasoned creative directors to detail-oriented technicians, illustrators,
color experts and data visualization specialists, ensures we can tackle projects of every scale.
Moreover, we’ve honed an expertise in inspiring action among residents through daily collaboration with
a wide range of public agencies. This translates to impactful visuals that grab attention and effectively
communicate your message in a clear and engaging way. As public agency engagement specialists,
accessibility is a cornerstone of every project that we undertake.
Our graphic design work spans:
Logos, sub-logos, branding, campaigns
Brochures, guides, newsletters, reports
Animated visuals for social media, video
and web
PDF, accessibility, ADA compliance
PPT, presentations, meeting materials
Stationery, business cards, templates
Social media, web banners, email
Infographics, financials, instructions
Posters, banners, signage
Conference materials, booths, swag
Website Support
Tripepi Smith can supplement staff efforts by deploying a website content expert dedicated to improving
your website. Our team has decades of combined experience managing websites for public agencies.
Our team handles all website needs, from content strategy, creation and maintenance to technical
support and full-fledged website redesigns. No matter the case, we prioritize user experience, staff
education, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act
ADA). Our team is fluent in a bevy of website service providers, including Granicus (govAccess and
OpenCities), CivicPlus, Revize, WordPress and Civica–plus analytics software, such as Google
Analytics and Piwik. In fact, we combine data on how constituents interact with your website with our
technical knowhow and storytelling skills to inform our work on websites: website redesigns, project
management for website redesigns and cloud webmaster services.
Photography and Videography Support
Our team includes nearly 10 full-time videographers, with diverse expertise in various domains,
including large and small-scale video production, drone videography, photography and event filming.
This depth of experience enables us to match the right expert to your needs, whether you are seeking
high-quality imagery for a large public event or short-form content designed to engage audiences on
social media platforms.
We offer a comprehensive range of video and photo services, including full video production, post-
production, aerial drone footage, livestreaming and photography. Our team is highly skilled in every
aspect of video production, from planning and shooting to editing and final delivery.
Whether it's a quick promotional video, an attention-grabbing highlight reel or a creative state of the city
event video, our team can produce compelling visuals optimized for platforms such as Instagram,
Facebook, X, YouTube and more. These pieces are crafted to capture your audience’s attention and
drive engagement in a concise and visually impactful way.
Photography and Videography sessions would be broken down into the following general three phases:
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1. Pre-Production: identifying key messages, goals, shot list, define interviews, questions and other
important details.
2. Production: this is where we execute our work onsite at the locations identified in pre-production,
capture any necessary audio, obtain interviews, capture b-roll and more.
3. Post-Production: this is where our work consists of editing photography or video footage, editing
photos captured, clean up audio, balance color correction. We send a review file where you can
provide feedback and edits.
We provide photography and videography services for:
Portraiture (Studio and
environmental)
Architecture
Behind-the-Scenes
Events (Ribbon cuttings, tree
lightings, summer activities,
concerts and more)
Conferences & Networking Events
Fine Arts Shows/Gatherings
Graduation Events
Groundbreaking Ceremonies
Promotional
Keynote/Presentation Speakers
Stock Imagery (Including drone)
Strategic Public Outreach, Information and Engagement Planning
Tripepi Smith will work closely with you throughout the contract term to provide advice on stakeholder
outreach, communication strategies, cohesive brand awareness and public engagement initiatives. Our
work includes developing key talking points to ensure there is a consistent message throughout the
outreach process and strategy. We can monitor community groups for specific initiative sentiments,
measure key performance indicators across your controlled media sites and other key metrics. Our
team can facilitate in-person and virtual community meetings, focus groups with stakeholders and more.
We take a collaborative approach to tailor a solution that perfectly fits your outreach and engagement
needs.
Crisis Communications
There may be instances when a serious, emergency issue arises, warranting collaboration among the
proposed project team throughout the crisis management period. This includes responding to
emergencies through coordinated communications efforts with key external stakeholders. Tripepi Smith
will remain available 24/7 to support you through such instances, typically kicking discussions off in a
virtual meeting, collaborating in a living workspace and emailing, texting or calling with updates as
progress happens.
Special Event and Infrastructure Strategy
Tripepi Smith can help you understand your audience and gauge interest on special events and
infrastructure strategy. Engagement with key stakeholders, such as residents, business owners,
community representatives and other agencies could include community pop-up events, in-person
community meetings, virtual meetings, informational videos, press releases, google form surveys and
more. We can align our communication cadence with the community’s interest levels and can further
detail the most appropriate action steps for outreach depending upon the City’s need.
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Concluding
Engaging constituents and telling your agency’s story is not a simple matter. It takes work, consistency,
innovation and creativity to make an impact. We are confident that our dedication and proven track
record make us the right partner for San Luis Obispo. Thank you for considering us as your continued
partner in communications. We eagerly anticipate the chance to discuss our proposal in more detail.
Authorization
I affirm that I have the legal authorization to bind Tripepi Smith into agreements with the City of San Luis
Obispo and to make the statements below on behalf of the firm. I also affirm having received all
addenda associated with your Request for Qualifications for On-Call Marketing, Public Relations,
Videography, or Photography Services. This proposal is valid for 90 days from the date of submission.
Regards,
Ryder Todd Smith
Co-Founder & President, Tripepi Smith & Associates, Inc.
Ryder@TripepiSmith.com • (626) 536-2173 • PO Box 52152, Irvine, CA 92619
RFP@TripepiSmith.com is our preferred point of contact throughout the evaluation process.
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RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Key Personnel Experience
Depending on the scope of work San Luis Obispo selects, the rest of the Tripepi Smith project team
may vary. The Account Manager (bio below) will closely monitor the quality of work product before
Tripepi Smith delivers it to you for review/approval. Should any key personnel become unavailable
during our engagement, Tripepi Smith will quickly substitute with other Tripepi Smith resources who
have commensurate experience, knowledge and/or skillsets.
Please see the Appendix for full resumes of key personnel. You can learn more about our individual
backgrounds and qualifications at www.TripepiSmith.com/Our-Team.
The core project team will have dedicated availability to support the engagement, including
capacity to provide support under urgent notice and/or time constraints. Tripepi Smith is a
collaborative firm with many skillsets available. Any Tripepi Smith staff member may be
brought onto the engagement to help with our efforts.
Sydni Overly
Director
Location: Seattle, WA | Role: Strategic Advisor & Account Manager
Sydni Overly is a strong project manager with a background in public policy and local government. After
studying sociology at Boston University, she went on to receive her Master of Public Administration
from California State University, Long Beach. Sydni further developed her leadership skills at the City of
Gardena, where she supported several municipal departments and gained extensive experience in
intergovernmental relations, emergency management, community outreach and content creation. As a
Director for Tripepi Smith, Sydni manages a wide range of projects and provides crisis communications
support and strategic direction for staff to execute. In addition to her client work, Sydni is the firm’s
Sprout Social expert and helps optimize social media management practices. She also recently led the
creation of Local Information Network of Knowledge (LINK), a software solution to help public agencies
share and document best practices and knowledge on a range of subjects.
Sydni’s client work included the City of Atascadero, City of Covina, City of Glendale, City of Grover
Beach, City of La Verne, City of Malibu, City of Pismo Beach, City of Renton, City of Rohnert Park, City
of Santa Paula, City of San Luis Obispo, County of San Luis Obispo, HSITAG and Upper Salinas-Las
Tablas Resource Conservation District.
Sydni is a certified Hootsuite Social Marketing Professional. She also specializes in crisis
communications and completed FEMA’s Professional Development Series and Public Relations
Society of America (PRSA) Crisis Communication Certificate Program.
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Valerie Nevarez
Business Analyst
Location: Redlands, CA | Role: Project Manager
Valerie Nevarez is a strategic and detail-oriented individual with a background in public relations and
social media management. She graduated from California Baptist University with a Bachelor of Arts in
Public Relations in 2019 and a Master in Business Administration in 2020. Valerie developed and
strengthened her skills during her time at Loma Linda University Health. She was charged with content
development, writing and project management.
Valerie holds a certificate in principles of public relations and is Hootsuite Social Media Marketing.
Mia Valenzuela
Junior Business Analyst
Location: San Francisco, CA | Role: Project Support
Mia Valenzuela is a community-oriented writer with a background in the arts supported by strong
organizational and communication skills. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English with a
concentration in Creative Writing and a minor in Philosophy from Scripps College. Mia is enthusiastic
about serving the public through informative storytelling and is proud to do so with Tripepi Smith.
Mia is certified in Sprout Social. Her clients include Renne Public Law Group, City of Menlo Park, City
of Hercules, City of San Luis Obispo and City of Rohnert Park.
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Firm Experience
Similar/Related Projects
City of Atascadero (2024 to Present)
Beginning in May 2024, the City of Atascadero tapped Tripepi Smith to assist with outreach and communications for ballot
measures L-24 and M-24, as well as manage communications for the El Camino Real Downtown Infrastructure Project. For
Measures L-24 (Sales Tax) and M-24 (Treasurer Position), Tripepi Smith developed FAQs, talking points, website content,
press releases and an animated video to educate voters about the measures.
For the El Camino Real Downtown Infrastructure Project, Tripepi Smith developed and maintained website content and
created outreach materials, including construction updates, traffic impact alerts, alternate route information and project
milestone announcements. Tripepi Smith also produced business highlight videos to support affected merchants and planned
community meetings and outreach events.
Contact:
Lara Christensen, Deputy City Manager 805-470-3400, LChristensen@Atascadero.org
City of Grover Beach (2020 to Present)
Tripepi Smith has been working with the City of Grover Beach since 2020 on a variety of communication and outreach efforts.
The ongoing baseline engagement includes writing press releases, managing social media, redesigning and creating the
monthly City Manager e-newsletter, hosting quarterly strategy meetings with department heads to identify key topics and
messages and delivering monthly metric reports. In addition to our ongoing work, Tripepi Smith has also provided tax
measure communication and community engagement services and district formation outreach services for the City, as well as
website modernization services, recruitment brochures and quarterly recreation activity mailers.
Contact:
Matthew Bronson, City Manager 805-473-4567, MBronson@GroverBeach.org
City of Duarte (2014 to Present)
In the City of Duarte, Tripepi Smith works with the city manager’s office in a broad and consistent engagement to advance
communications and augment the work of staff. The baseline engagement includes writing press releases and articles,
updating the City website, managing social media, redesigning and creating the quarterly City newsletter, developing a style
guide, hosting quarterly strategy meetings with department heads, delivering monthly metric reports, advising staff on the
City’s upcoming website redesign and auditing City communications in an express assessment report. Duarte previously
engaged Tripepi Smith for its first communications assessment as well as for videography, photography, drone, graphic
design and email marketing services. After a 2.5-year engagement, the City just signed on for another 3 years with an
expanded scope covering the management of its PEG channel.
Contact:
Andres Rangel, Assistant to the City Manager/PIO 626-357-7931, ARangel@AccessDuarte.com
We encourage you to see all the work we have done for clients through our online
portfolio at www.TripepiSmith.com/Work
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General Firm Information
Tripepi Smith: A Public Affairs Firm that Understands Local
Government
Tripepi Smith excels in public affairs and marketing. Founded in 2000 and incorporated as a California
corporation in 2002, the company is headquartered in Orange County, California, with staff throughout
the western United States. We work in a complex environment where successful communications go
hand-in-hand with marketing and technical expertise. As a full-service marketing and creative services
firm, Tripepi Smith offers the right professionals for the job while being small enough to be nimble and
responsive. Our team offers a broad spectrum of experience and skills that allows us to apply the
appropriate resource to the appropriate tasks; this allows us to execute work faster and reduce
engagement costs.
Tripepi Smith's team comprises over 65 full-time professionals experienced in local government. Our
staff includes former municipal employees with backgrounds in creative services, public information and
city management, as well as seasoned directors, analysts and practice area specialists. Accredited
public relations (APR) professionals guide effective messaging while policy wonks provide counsel on
public affairs. TS Creatives fashion compelling branding, websites, print and digital design, social media,
photography and videography. We employ multiple FAA-certified drone pilots and operate a full-scale
video production studio with extensive event and broadcast experience.
The Result: We can tell a complete story across mediums, all within our one team.
Firm Structure and Financial Matters
Tripepi Smith was founded in 2000 and incorporated in 2002 as a California S Corporation. The firm has
two corporate officers, who are also the co-founders with equal ownership of the business:
Co-Founder & President Ryder Todd Smith
Chief Financial Officer Nicole Smith
Ryder and Nicole have signing authority to bind Tripepi Smith into agreements with clients. Tripepi
Smith has generated a profit every year it has been in operation. We have never had a legal claim filed
against us and have never failed to fulfill a contract commitment.
In addition to the President/CEO and CFO, multiple principals and directors oversee the day-to-day
operations of a team of analysts, graphic designers, photographers and videographers. Please refer to
our Org Chart for full details.
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Grounded in Civic Affairs
CFO Nicole Tripepi Smith is a second-generation civic-affairs professional (her father was a city
manager for 28 years). President Ryder Todd Smith brings over 20 years of public agency marketing
and communications experience to the table.
Office Locations
Since early 2017, Tripepi Smith has operated in a completely virtual office environment. Being virtual
enhances operational resilience and grants us access to a flexible and diverse workforce. The team —
composed of policy wonks, creative message developers, broadcast specialists, videography experts,
technology gurus and graphic artists — resides throughout Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, New
Mexico, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, with a majority based in California.
Contact Information
Email: RFP@TripepiSmith.com
Phone: (626) 536-2173
Mail: PO Box 52152, Irvine, CA 92619
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Our Services
Tripepi Smith operates at the intersection of marketing, technology and public affairs. We excel in each
of these areas, but the true power lies in our ability to seamlessly integrate them. This holistic approach
allows us to craft impactful solutions for our clients.
Strategy, Marketing,
Communications Creative Services
Strategic development, research,
surveys, messaging
Social media management
Web and social media strategy,
optimization (SEO), metrics
Web hosting and support
Email campaigns
Relations
media, stakeholders, public, government)
Support and training for events,
presentations and virtual gatherings
Digital, print, radio,
out-of-home advertising
Staff training
media, social media, photo, brand implementation)
Full-service graphic design
for digital, print and outdoor
Brand and logo development
Content creation
writing, editorial, thought leadership)
Output services
digital distribution, print management, mail management)
Illustration and information graphics
Photography
Videography, broadcasting,
podcasting, drone
Event production, technical support
Animation and motion graphics
Web design and implementation
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Partial Client Roster
We have a network of 200+ satisfied clients in the local government space. We are happy to connect
you with contacts at our client agencies who can share their experience working with Tripepi Smith.
California City Management
Foundation
City of Aliso Viejo
City of American Canyon
City of Atascadero
City of Azusa
City of Baldwin Park
City of Bellflower
City of Benicia
City of Burlingame
City of Claremont
City of Coronado
City of Cotati
City of) Culver City
City of Cupertino
City of) Daly City
City of Danville
City of Duarte
City of El Cerrito
City of Encinitas
City of Fountain Valley
City of Foster City
City of Fullerton
City of Gilroy
City of Grover Beach
City of Hawaiian Gardens
City of Hayward
City of Healdsburg
City of Hercules
City of Huntington Beach
City of Indian Wells
City of Irvine
City of La Cañada Flintridge
City of La Palma
City of La Puente
City of La Verne
City of Laguna Hills
City of Laguna Niguel
City of Lake Forest
City of Lakeport
City of Lancaster
City of Livermore
City of Lomita
City of Lynwood
City of Malibu
City of Manhattan Beach
City of Manteca
City of Martinez
City of Menifee
City of Millbrae
City of Morgan Hill
City of Murrieta
City of Napa
City of Orange
City of Orinda
City of Pacifica
City of Palm Desert
City of Palmdale
City of Paramount
City of Pico Rivera
City of Pismo Beach
City of Placentia
City of Pomona
City of Rancho Mirage
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
City of Riverbank
City of Rohnert Park
City of Rolling Hills Estates
City of San Clemente
City of San Leandro
City of Santa Ana
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Paula
City of Saratoga
City of Stanton
City of South Gate
City of South Pasadena
City of Tracy
City of Vallejo
Costa Mesa Sanitary District
Del Paso Manor Water District
West County Wastewater District
Independent Cities Association
Independent Cities Finance Authority
Institute for Local Government
League of California Cities
Municipal Management Association
of Northern California
Municipal Management Association
of Southern California
Orange County City Manager
Association
San Gabriel Valley City Managers’
Association
Claremont McKenna College
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Tripepi Smith Organizational Chart
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FEE STRUCTURE
The City of San Luis Obispo values community engagement and wishes to expand its impact through
as-needed communications support. We recommend the following scope of services following a Time &
Materials (T&M) model that allows you the flexibility to “ramp up” or “ramp down” efforts according to
budget and priorities. Below are approximate costs for potential services the City may request
throughout this engagement. We only begin work with your written consent.
Time & Materials Estimates
Service/Deliverable Scope Cost
Strategic Planning/ Crisis
Communications/Strategy
Sessions
Includes 1 hour strategy meeting with a Principal or Director and the
project team followed by a detailed action item list for both the City and
Tripepi Smith
880
Graphic Design Design services for (1) one Flyer, (1) one Poster and (1) one Banner ~$3,975
Web Content Content support includes 1-hour of Web Developer, 1-hour of Junior
Web Developer, 1-hours of Junior Business Analyst for scanning, calls to
action and updates to website content
645
Social Media Content and
Production
Draft, design and publish 3 social media posts each month for 12
months. Includes weekly monitoring and responding
2,720
Event Video Production Junior Videographer onsite for 2-hour event. Includes set up/clean up,
full video editing, draft for City approval, equipment and travel fees.
Delivered video in .MP4 format or other suitable format for platforms
2,630
Event Photography Production Junior Photographer onsite for 2-hour event. Includes Shoot list, delivery
of images in native RAW and JPEG/JPG format. Travel fees included. All
photo rights released to you
2,610
News Release Draft one article per month up to 500 words. Includes research, drafting
and distributing.
720
Metric Reporting Delivery of a monthly, multi-page report capturing key performance
indicators across City social media sites and other applicable digital
platforms
875
Should San Luis Obispo determine Tripepi Smith is the most qualified and responsive
vendor, but has a budget number that it must hit, then Tripepi Smith remains open to
collaborating to narrow the scope engagement or refine our understanding of the scope
needs and will modify our pricing accordingly.
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As-Needed Services
Tripepi Smith will apply the following standard hourly rates and related fees for any authorized as-
needed (Time & Materials) work. Such work must be clearly authorized in writing before proceeding.
2025-26 Hourly Rates Standard Reduced Retainer
Principal $380 $315
Director $265 $225
Art/Creative Director $265 $225
Senior Business Analyst $205 $180
Business Analyst $150 $125
Junior Business Analyst $115 $100
Senior Videographer/Animator $205 $175
Senior Photographer $175 $150
Videographer/Photographer $140 $120
Junior Videographer/Photographer $115 $100
Senior Graphic Designer $195 $165
Graphic Designer $140 $120
Junior Graphic Designer $115 $100
Web Developer $210 $185
Junior Web Developer $115 $100
Drone Operator $205 $180
Council Chamber A/V Operator $115 $100
Invoicing & Payment Terms
At Tripepi Smith, we bill on either a Retainer, Fixed Fee or Time & Materials basis, with each billing type
following its own payment schedule. Regardless, terms are Net 30 days.
Fixed Fee work is billed upon defined milestones.
Time & Materials work is billed in 15-minute increments (i.e. 4.0, 1.25, 6.5 or 0.75 hours) at the
end of the month in which work is done.
Retainer work is billed on the 15th of each month.
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Other Cost Information
Tripepi Smith has related service fees that may come up during our engagement that we want to tell you
about.
Annual Increase
Tripepi Smith will increase the hourly rates and retainer fees for all resources by 5% or the national CPI
index–whichever is higher–each year on the anniversary of the contract, starting on the first anniversary
of any contract when the contract duration is longer than one year. Otherwise, new rates will be
negotiated with each new contract.
Retainer Discount
When a client’s retainer exceeds $7,500 per month, they gain access to our reduced retainer rates.
Travel Costs
Travel costs must be pre-authorized and then will be reimbursed by the client for any requested travel to
complete a requested scope of work. Travel costs may include airfare, lodging, car rentals and gas.
Additionally, when client work requires that we be onsite, we will invoice for a resource’s travel time at
50% of the resource’s hourly rate.
Equipment Costs
Tripepi Smith offers some services that require equipment, such as drone operations and video
production. As such, in those cases, the following rates apply:
Half Day (Under 4 Hours) Full Day (4+ Hours)
Video $450 $650
Drone $550 – Flat Fee
Please note that A/V equipment fees are based on the amount and type of equipment required, with
pricing tailored to the specifics of each event.
Music and Video Licensing
Sometimes, the client will want Tripepi Smith to apply music or use stock imagery/video while producing
video. In these cases, we will need to apply licensing fees of approximately $100 per song and $200 if
we use stock video imagery. This will provide a license for the use of the music and video footage to
Tripepi Smith and its clients.
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Service Fees
Tripepi Smith prefers that clients pay service providers directly to avoid unnecessary administrative
costs. You should also know, however, that we have no economic interest in service providers, unless
otherwise specified in this proposal.
If a client asks Tripepi Smith to pay for a service provider bill, we will apply a 10% agency fee to the
reimbursement expense. Typical service fees include, but are not limited to: print, mailing, digital
advertising, media placements, voiceovers, translations and closed captions.
Exclusive Access
Tripepi Smith has access to entities that may be relevant to our engagement. These partnerships allow
Tripepi Smith to offer clients extra media reach or additional services at partner pricing.
Local Information Network of Knowledge (LINK): www.LocalInfoNetwork.com – A community forum for local
government professionals in California to discover and share resources, policies, sample work products, best
practices and more.
PublicCEO: www.PublicCEO.com – Digital news about public affairs, reaching over 17,500 California
government executives through a daily podcast, job board, video podcast and more.
Civic Business Journal: www.CivicBusinessJournal.com – Digital interest stories on the people,
companies and solutions that make local government in California more effective.
FlashVote: www.FlashVote.com – Statistically valid surveying that helps leaders make decisions.
Disclaimer: Tripepi Smith President Ryder Todd Smith is an investor in FlashVote.
Tripepi Smith Talent Solutions: www.TSTalentSolutions.com – A multifaceted recruitment consultancy
service, combining local government access with communications to advance talent quests and build culture
warriors.
Meltwater: www.TripepiSmith.com/Media-Intelligence – An enterprise-class, comprehensive media
monitoring solution that is best combined with Tripepi Smith’s analytics team.
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CLIENT REFERENCES
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APPENDIX A: RESUMES
SYDNI OVERLY
TRIPEPI SMITH – DIRECTOR 04/25 – PRESENT
Manage various project strategies and budgets
Serve as project management lead for several clients and provide direction for staff to execute on
deliverables
Facilitate public meetings and workshops for clients
Develop communication and outreach strategies that align with client initiatives
Lead and support crisis communication strategies, including leadership harassment accusations and storm-
related incidents
TRIPEPI SMITH – SENIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 12/22 – 03/25
TRIPEPI SMITH – BUSINESS ANALYST 05/21 – 11/22
CITY OF GARDENA – ADMINISTRATIVE AIDE –
EMERGENCY SERVICES COORDINATOR 04/19 – 05/21
Managed the Emergency Management Program and served as the Emergency Operations Center
Coordinator and Public Information Officer for COVID-19 and civil unrest
Supported the Economic Development Manager in policy research and presentations, including cannabis
regulations
Wrote and edited public press releases, speeches and resolutions on behalf of the City Manager and
elected officials
CITY OF GARDENA – RECREATION COORDINATOR 11/18 – 04/19
Organized and managed City fundraisers and events for the Human Services Division
Designed and implemented an internship program for the Human Services Division
Donation management, community outreach and case management for the Emergency Food and Resource
Program
CITY OF GARDENA – RECREATION LEADER II 06/18 – 11/18
Operational analysis of recreation programs to modernize processes
Planned and facilitated Citywide events
EDUCATION
BOSTON UNIVERSITY – BOSTON, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LONG BEACH – LONG BEACH, CA
Master of Public Administration
CERTIFICATIONS
Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
Crisis Communication Certificate Program ............................................ 10/23
Hootsuite Social Marketing .................................................................... 05/21
Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing ....................................................... 08/20
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Professional Development Series (PDS) ............................................... 09/19
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VALERIE NEVAREZ
TRIPEPI SMITH – BUSINESS ANALYST 03/24 – PRESENT
Provide project management for communications and marketing initiatives
Create and manage social media posts
Write stories and press releases for the firm’s website and city clients
LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY HEALTH – SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST 10/21 – 03/24
Provided strategy for the organization’s social media presence across all platforms
Content creation and management for all 12 social media flagship accounts
Developed brand strategy for social media campaigns throughout the year
CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY – ADJUNCT PROFESSOR 8/22 – PRESENT
Developed a pragmatic social media strategies class for 13-18 students every semester
Led and aided students in the public relations and journalism program
CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY – EVENT INTERN 08/18 – 10/19
Developed and implemented strategies for event management
Provided hands-on assistance in hosting events
Developed and built relationships with vendors across the Inland Empire
FREELANCE DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS 08/19 – 02/24
Provided small businesses and non-profits with assistance in social media management
Managed existing brand partnerships, implemented activation plans and tracked ROI
Developed creative content to promote both the music festivals and sponsors
EDUCATION
CAL BAPTIST UNIVERSITY – RIVERSIDE, CA
Master of Business Administration
Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
CERTIFICATIONS
Hootsuite Social Marketing .................................................................... 06/23
Sprout Social .......................................................................................... 06/23
SOFTWARE
Adobe Creative Suite
Canva
Mailchimp
Microsoft Office Suite
Salesforce
Sprout Social
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MIA VALENZUELA
TRIPEPI SMITH – JUNIOR BUSINESS ANALYST 06/23 – PRESENT
Support project management of client accounts Create social media content and graphic design
Manage and monitor social media and respond to public questions
Develop weekly and monthly e-newsletter content Translate written content and graphics from English to
Spanish Compile social media metrics reports
BARNES AND NOBLE BOOKSTORE – BOOKSELLER 06/21 – 01/23
Effectively multi-tasked and took initiative in fast-paced, client-facing role
Attended to customer needs with compassion and a commitment to company’s service values
Responded to telephone communications while balancing sales floor duties
Fulfilled customer orders and inquiries through Bookmaster software
NINTH STREET HOOLIGANS A CAPPELLA – PRESIDENT 12/21 – 12/22
Coordinated rehearsal and event schedules for 15 members
Efficiently communicated with team and external collaborates regarding event planning, performance
preparation and budget needs according to deadlines
Demonstrated follow-up and follow-through when facilitating group’s participation in performances such as
the SoCal A Cappella Music Festival to audience of 2500
Organized annual off-campus community retreat with outside venue within allocated budget
Created promotional content for Instagram using Canva and V photo and video editing services to advertise
new member recruitment and performance events
SCRIPPS EATING DISORDER ALLIANCE – COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER 08/20 – 08/21
Researched eating disorder education, size inclusivity, mental and physical health-related topics
Generated promotional and educational social media content for Instagram using Canva
EDUCATION
SCRIPPS COLLEGE – CLAREMONT, CA
Bachelor of Arts in English | Concentration in Creative Writing
CERTIFICATIONS
Sprout Social .......................................................................................... 07/23
Hootsuite Social Marketing .................................................................... 06/23
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Scripps College Emerging Professionals Programs – 2023 Cohort
SOFTWARE
Canva
Constant Contact
Google Suite
Microsoft Office Suite
PublicInput
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APPENDIX B: REQUIRED FORMS & STATEMENTS
Proposal Submittal Form
The undersigned declares that she or he:
Has carefully examined the RFQ for On-Call Consulting for Marketing, Public Relations,
Videography, or Photography and all addenda, which is hereby made a part of this proposal. Is
thoroughly familiar with its contents.
Is authorized to represent the proposing firm.
Agrees to perform the work as set forth in this proposal.
Certificate of insurance attached; insurance company’s A.M. Best rating.
Firm Name and Address:
Tripepi Smith and Associates, Inc.
PO Box 52152, Irvina, CA 92619
Contact: Ryder Todd Smith Phone 626-536-2173
Signature of Authorized Proposer Representative
April 3, 2025
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Proof Of Insurance
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Statement of Past Contract Disqualifications
No officers or employees who have a proprietary interest in Tripepi Smith, has ever been disqualified,
removed, or otherwise prevented from bidding on, or completing a federal, state, or local government project
because of the violation of law, a safety regulation, or for any other reason, including but not limited to
financial difficulties, project delays, or disputes regarding work or product quality.
Execute on April 3, 2025 at Irvine, California under penalty of perjury of the laws of the State of
California, that the foregoing is true and correct.
Signature of Authorized Proposer Representative