4-EXHIBIT B - Bond Counsel Contract 2025 Form.pdf
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- Attached to
- Bond and Disclosure Counsel Services
- Solicitation number
- BFZ26-00029361
- Issued by
- Dallas County, Texas
About this file
Professional Services Contract Summary: Bond Counsel Legal Services
This is a Professional Services Contract template between the City of Dallas, Texas, and two law firms designated as Bond Counsel and Co-Bond Counsel to provide legal services for municipal bond financing and related debt obligations. The contract encompasses services for the City's Water and Sewer System bonds, Commercial Paper Notes, bonds issued by the Consolidated Economic Development Board, Downtown Dallas Development Authority bonds, Tax Increment Financing bonds, Public Improvement District bonds, and other special district bonds, with potential expansion to additional city debt obligations as directed by the City Attorney. The scope of services includes providing legal opinions on bond validity and tax-exempt status, preparing bond-related documents such as resolutions and trust indentures, attending bid openings and closings, preparing bond transcripts for Texas Attorney General approval, assisting with official statement preparation and disclosure matters, and providing ongoing legal advice on compliance, disclosure requirements, and legislative developments. The contract is effective September 1, 2025, with a five-year term extending through August 31, 2030, with termination provisions allowing either firm to terminate with 30 days' written notice or the City to terminate for cause or convenience with 10 days' notice.
Compensation is structured as contingent fees payable upon bond sale and delivery, with fees based on hourly rates for partners, senior counsel, associates, and paralegals (amounts to be inserted), plus an additional bond opinion fee per stated increment of bonds sold. The contract emphasizes that no minimum work volume is guaranteed and that other law firms have been engaged for similar services. Firms must submit written estimates subject to City Attorney approval, notify the City when billing reaches 75 percent of the approved estimate, and submit final billing within 60 days of bond delivery. Reimbursable out-of-pocket expenses are limited to $5,000 per transaction with individual expenses exceeding $500 requiring preapproval. The Bond Counsel firm assumes no less than 51 percent of service responsibilities while Co-Bond Counsel handles no more than 49 percent, with each firm acting independently and bearing no liability for the other's performance. The contract requires compliance with professional conduct rules, non-discrimination provisions, conflict-of-interest disclosures, and various Texas Government Code requirements regarding boycotts of Israel, energy companies, and firearm entities. Professional liability insurance coverage is required as specified in Exhibit D, and all records must be retained for a minimum of three years following termination.
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EXHIBIT B
[INSERT firm one]/ [INSERT firm two] Professional Services Contract – Bond Counsel
Resolution No. _______________ Contract No. _________________
THE STATE OF TEXAS )
) PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT
COUNTY OF DALLAS ) BOND COUNSEL LEGAL SERVICES
THIS CONTRACT is made and entered into by and between the CITY OF DALLAS, a municipal corporation, of Dallas County, Texas (“CITY”), and the law firms of [INSERT firm one], a Texas [INSERT entity type] with registered offices located at [INSERT Address] (“Bond Counsel”) and [INSERT firm two name] a Texas [INSERT entity type] with registered offices located at [INSERT address] (“Co-Bond Counsel”) (collectively, Bond Counsel and Co-Bond Counsel are hereinafter referred as “Law Firm” or “Law Firms”).
ARTICLE I.
1.1 Law Firms are hereby retained to jointly provide legal services, as Bond Counsel and Co- Bond Counsel, to the City in connection with the authorization, sale, issuance and delivery of City’s Water and Sewer System bonds, Water and Sewer System Commercial Paper Notes, bonds issued by the Consolidated Economic Development Boards and certain other City conduit issuers such as the Downtown Dallas Development Authority, Tax Increment Financing bonds, Public Improvement District bonds and certain other special district bonds as directed by the City, (herein referred to as “City’s bonds”). In addition, the Law Firms may be requested to provide legal services in connection with such other city debt obligations as requested by the City Attorney during the term of this contract. Law Firms acknowledge and agree that other teams of law firms have been employed by the City to perform similar legal services and that no certain amount of work under this Contract is assured.
1.2 This Contract shall be administered on behalf of City by its City Attorney, or his designee.
1.3 The Law Firms shall perform all the legal services as set forth in this Contract.
1.4 A. The legal services are to be performed in a good and workmanlike manner and shall conform in every respect to the following:
(i) City's Request for Qualifications [INSERT RFQ No.] and City's Specifications for the Services (collectively, the “Specifications”), including all addenda thereto, attached as Exhibit A;
(iii) The bid from the law firms (collectively the “Bids”), attached as Exhibit B.
B. All of the documents referred to in Subsection A of this Section 1.4 are incorporated by reference and made a part of this Contract for all purposes as though each were written word for word in this Contract; provided, however, that in case of a conflict in the language of the Specifications, the Bid, and this Contract, the terms and conditions of this Contract shall control and are final and binding on both parties, and the Specifications shall control where they conflict with the Bid. Contractor and City further agree that should any dispute or questions arise respecting the true construction or meaning of any of these documents, the true meaning shall be decided by City and such decision shall be binding and conclusive upon Contractor.
ARTICLE II.
BOND COUNSEL
2.1 [INSERT Bond Counsel full name], hereby agrees to perform Bond Counsel services in connection with the City’s bonds, as set forth herein. As Bond Counsel, [INSERT Bond Counsel full name] shall be responsible for [no less than 51%] percent of the services necessary for the advice, development, authorization, sale, issuance and delivery of City’s bonds, unless otherwise directed by the City. Bond Counsel hereby agrees to work in cooperation with the designated co-bond counsel firm of [INSERT Co-Bond Counsel full name] in the provision of legal services for the benefit of the City, based on an [no less than 51%]/[no more than 49%] division of legal work and responsibility.
2.2 [INSERT Co-Bond Counsel full name] hereby agrees to perform Co-Bond Counsel services in connection with the City’s bonds, as set forth herein. As Co-Bond Counsel, [INSERT Co-Bond Counsel full name] shall be responsible for approximately [no more than 49%] of the services necessary for the advice, development, authorization, sale, issuance and delivery of City’s bonds, unless otherwise directed by the City. Co-Bond Counsel hereby agrees to work in cooperation with Bond Counsel in the provision of legal services for the benefit of the City, based on an approximate no less than 51%]/[no more than 49%] division of legal work and responsibility.
2.3 It is expressly understood and agreed that, while the two Law Firms shall divide the work to be performed for the City in connection with the City’s bonds, each Law Firm will act independently in performing the portions of such work assigned to or assumed by it.
Neither Law Firm will have or assume any responsibility for work performed by the other firm and neither firm will have any liability or responsibility whatsoever for errors, omissions, negligence, or other acts or omissions of the other firm in the performance of work undertaken or performed by such other firm; provided, however, that each firm will be responsible for undertaking any necessary review of the documents prepared or work performed by the other firm or by others to the extent necessary, reasonable or appropriate to enable such firm to render opinions, give advice, or otherwise perform the work assigned to or assumed by it in connection with the legal services to be performed hereunder.
2.4 After receipt of an assignment from the City Attorney within the scope of this
Agreement, Bond Counsel, shall present a written schedule of duties and activities deemed necessary and required to accomplish the assignment, demonstrating the division of work between the firms in accordance with this Article II. Schedules submitted are subject to review, revision and approval by the City Attorney, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld.
2.5 The arrangements and undertakings described in this Contract do not evidence, and shall not be construed as establishing, a partnership between the Law Firms.
2.6 Independent Contractors. In performing Services under this Contract, the relationship between City and Law Firms is that of independent contractor, and CITY and Law Firms by the execution of this Contract do not change the independent status of Law Firms.
Law Firms shall exercise independent judgment in performing work under this Contract and are solely responsible for setting working hours, scheduling or prioritizing the workflow and determining how the work is to be performed. No term or provision of this Contract or act of Law Firms in the performance of this Contract shall be construed as making Law Firms the agent, servant or employee of CITY, or making Law Firms or any of their employees eligible for the fringe benefits, such as retirement, insurance and workers compensation, which CITY provides its employees.
ARTICLE III.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
3.1 The scope of services to be provided by the two Law Firms will include, but not limited to, the following services:
A. Provide advice and assistance on the legal requirements of City bond financing structures, including providing written legal opinions as requested by the City Attorney.
B. Assist the City Attorney’s Office, City Manager, City financial staff and the City’s financial advisor in preparation of official statements and proper disclosure to prospective bidders. In addition, the Law Firms will undertake due diligence with respect to disclosure of matters contained in the City’s offering documents and provide opinions regarding the City’s bond offering documents, as requested by the City Attorney.
C. Prepare resolutions, ordinances, notices, trust indentures, escrow agreements, paying agent agreements, closing certificates and other legal documents in connection with the issuance of the City’s bonds.
D. Attend bid openings and assist City staff in related legal issues.
E. Prepare a bond transcript for presentation to the Texas Attorney General for his approval, and assist the City in obtaining approval of the Texas Attorney General, as necessary or required.
F. Attend and prepare documents, certificates and opinions, as are necessary or requested, for bond closings and provide instruction advice for closing.
G. Render written opinions covering the validity of the City bonds and their tax-exempt status under federal income tax laws. Render written opinions regarding whether the City’s bonds are exempt from registration or qualification under federal and state securities acts.
H. Provide four (4) copies of all transcripts to the City (two for the Office of Financial Services, one for the City Secretary’s Office, one for the City Attorney’s Office); and maintain copies of all transcripts in compliance with applicable local state and federal law.
I. Keep the City abreast of legal developments which might be applicable to the City’s financing program.
J. Provide legal advice to the City as needed. This may include assistance in compliance with continuing disclosure requirements, rendering opinions regarding the tax-exempt status of outstanding bonds, the development of alternative financing programs for potential capital projects, evaluating State and Federal legislation for the City, providing legal representation to the City during IRS audits or examinations related to financing transactions, and other tasks as required by the City.
K. Provide legal advice and assist in the preparation of documents, orders and other matters in connection with a city bond election.
L. In addition to the above Bond Counsel Services, the Law Firms shall be available to provide legal services at the same hourly rates outlined in Exhibit C as directed by the City Attorney that may include similar projects outside of the issuance of bonds such as training for City staff and City Council with respect to disclosure rules, regulations and responsibilities keeping the City abreast of legal developments which might be applicable to the City's financing program and disclosure obligations and such other matters listed in the Request for Qualifications [INSERT RFQ No.].
3.2 The Law Firms represent that all of their employees or associates who perform legal services under this contract will be fully qualified and competent to perform the services described above. All legal services rendered by the Law Firms hereunder shall be completed timely and in the highest professional manner.
ARTICLE IV.
FEES FOR SERVICE
4.1 Fees for bond counsel/co-bond counsel services rendered in connection with the issuance, sale and delivery of a proposed issuance of City bonds by Bond Counsel and Bond Counsel are set forth on Exhibit C and are contingent upon the sale and delivery of the bonds and shall become due and payable from Bond proceeds, concurrently with the delivery of bonds to the purchaser, after receipt and approval by the City Attorney of all documents and opinions to be provided by Law Firms hereunder, and approval by the City Attorney of final billings from both Law Firms. All services shall be performed to the satisfaction of the City Attorney and the City shall not be liable for any services which are unsatisfactory and which have not been approved by the City Attorney.
4.2 A. Prior to the performance of legal services in connection with a bond sale or other matter authorized pursuant to this Contract, each Law Firm shall submit, in writing, to the City Attorney an estimate of the total hourly fees, expenses and costs ("estimate") expected to be incurred by such law firm for each City bond sale or other authorized matter. Each estimate is subject to review and approval by the City Attorney.
B. The respective Law Firms shall monitor their hourly billings, expenses and costs, and shall notify the City Attorney, in writing, within five (5) business days after the aggregate of the hourly billable fees, expenses and costs reach 75% of the approved estimate, whether the total hourly fees, expenses and costs to be billed will be in accordance with the approved estimate amount. If, upon reaching 75% of the approved estimate, the respective law firm determines that, due to additional services requested by the CITY or unforeseen matters (such as, delays in the issuance of bonds or changes in the scope of the bond financing), the total hourly fees, expenses and costs will exceed the approved estimate, then the respective law firm shall submit, in writing, for the City Attorney's review and approval, a revised estimate of the total hourly fees, expenses and costs expected to be incurred. The CITY shall not be liable for payment of any amounts exceeding the approved estimate, unless such additional amounts have been authorized pursuant to a revised estimate approved by the City Attorney. Failure of the respective law firm to notify CITY, in writing, within five (5) business days of reaching 75% of the approved estimate amount as specified above, shall constitute a waiver of the respective CO-BOND COUNSEL law firm's right to compensation for any portion of the total hourly fees, expenses and costs that exceed the approved estimate amount.
4.3 Bond Counsel and Co-Bond Counsel shall submit, within sixty (60) days after the sale and delivery of the bonds, a final billing to the City on behalf of their respective law firms, detailing work performed by each attorney and other personnel, and date and elapsed time, and reimbursable expenses, disbursements and other charges incurred. The City shall issue separate checks to the Law Firms. Because a financing can require activities over several months, the firms agree to issue to the City billing statements of activity periodically, as requested by the City Attorney, so that the estimate of services can be monitored.
4.4 The Law Firms agree that billings to the City shall include invoices to support each reimbursable expense, disbursement or other charge for which payment is requested.
Allowable reimbursable expenses, disbursements and other charges include, but are not limited to, postage, long distance telephone charges, courier services, copying charges, Attorney General transcript review fees, and bond transcript costs. The Law Firms agree to coordinate with the City prior to undertaking excessive copying or reproduction of documents in order that a decision may be made about the most cost-effective manner of accomplishing this work for the City.
4.5 Approval of City Attorney of the legal services performed hereunder by the Law Firms shall not constitute or be deemed to be a release of the responsibility and liability of the Law Firms for the accuracy or competency of their services, nor shall such approval by the City Attorney be deemed to be the assumption of such responsibility by the City for any error or omission in the documents or work prepared by Law Firm.
4.6 In addition to the fees for services, the City agrees to reimburse the Law Firms for reasonable and actual out-of-pocket expenses, such as the cost of reproduction of documents, long-distance telephone, telecommunications, deliveries, filing fees and similar expenses paid for by the Law Firms on behalf of the City and incurred in connection with the performance of disclosure counsel services. The Law Firms agree that billings to the City shall include invoices to support each reimbursable expense, disbursement or other charge for which payment is requested. Individual expenses in excess of $500 shall be subject to preapproval by the City, and in no event shall total out-of-pocket expenses, in the aggregate, exceed $5,000 per transaction.
4.7 The Law Firms shall make reasonable efforts to minimize the cost of travel and to telecommute as much as possible. The Law Firms further agree to coordinate with the City prior to undertaking excessive copying or reproduction of documents in order that a decision may be made about the most cost-effective manner of accomplishing this work for the City.
4.8 The City may, at its option, offset any amounts due and payable under this Contract against any debt (including taxes) lawfully due to city from the respective Law Firm, regardless of whether the amount due arises pursuant to the terms of this Contract or otherwise and regardless of whether or not the debt due to the City has been reduced to judgment by a court.
ARTICLE V.
TERM AND TERMINATION
5.1 This Contract shall be effective as of September 1, 2025, and remain in effect for a period of five (5) years ending on August 31, 2030 (“Term”). This Contract may be terminated by either Law Firm (but only with respect to that particular Law Firm) by providing thirty
(30) days written notice of the intent to terminate to the City Attorney. The City, acting through the City Attorney, may terminate this Contract, in whole or in part, for cause or for convenience, on ten (10) days written notice to either, or both, Law Firms. In the event of termination, it is understood and agreed that the Law Firms will cease performing services under this Contract upon the date specified in such notice of termination and release to the City all pertinent City files, Law Firm’s work product related to this Contract and related bond data which may be requested by the City. Law Firms shall not be entitled to lost or anticipated profits should the City choose to exercise its option to terminate, whether for cause or convenience. Law Firms shall invoice City for all services provided and expenses, disbursements and other charges incurred prior to the effective date of termination, and Law Firms shall be compensated in accordance with this Contract; provided, however, in no event shall Law Firms be entitled to any contingent fees for services performed under this Contract, if: (1) the City terminates this Contract for cause; or (2) the sale and delivery of the City’s bonds to which the contingent fees relate does not occur within one year following the date of termination of this Contract. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the firms understand and agree that if the City exercises its termination rights hereunder, the City shall be immediately empowered to appoint replacement bond counsel or co-bond counsel, without liability or consultation with either of the Law Firms, and Law Firms agree to cooperate fully with the City and any replacement bond counsel or co-bond counsel.
ARTICLE VI.
MISCELLANEOUS
6.1 If any claim, demand, or other action is made or brought by any person, firm, corporation, or other entity against either of the Law Firms related to their services hereunder, the Law Firm shall give written notice thereof to the City no later than five (5) days after being notified of such claim, demand, suit, or action. Such notice shall state the date and hour of notification of any such claim, demand, suit or other action; the name and address of the person, firm, corporation or other entity making such claim or that instituted or threatened to institute any type of action or proceeding; and the name of any person against whom such claim is being made or threatened. Such written notice shall be delivered either personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested and shall be sent to the City Attorney’s Office, City of Dallas, Texas, 1500 Marilla, 7DN, Dallas, Texas 75201, Attention: City Attorney.
6.2 A. The City recognizes that the Law Firms may represent other clients, including other cities and political subdivisions, as bond counsel or in other capacities; except that the Law Firms shall be disqualified from representing any other client (i) in any matter which is substantially related to their representation of the City and (ii) with respect to any matter where there is a reasonable probability that confidential information furnished by the City to the Law Firms could be used to the City’s disadvantage. The Law Firms may not act as counsel to underwriters, trustees, or other third parties in connection with the issuance of the City Bonds or debt obligations of City conduit issuers. The Law Firms may represent, from time to time, a number of financial institutions, including institutions that act as financial advisors or underwriters in connection with obligations issued by entities other than the City. This will not in any way affect the diligence or vigor with which the Law Firms will represent the City’s interests in connection with the issuance of City Bonds.
B. Notwithstanding the preceding paragraph, the Law Firms shall comply with the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct in providing legal services pursuant to this Contract. The Law Firms acknowledge that they are not currently involved in any litigation in which they represent a party who is adverse to City and the Law Firms agree that they will not undertake any litigation adverse to City or a City employee or officer, in their official capacity, during the term of this Contract, without the prior written approval of the City Attorney. Law Firms may not undertake representation adverse to the City or a City employee or officer as a result of information obtained by virtue of this Contract. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Contract, the City Attorney may terminate this Contract with a Law Firm immediately, for cause, upon violation of this Sub-Section 5.3.
6.3 A. As part of their proposal, the Law Firms have furnished a copy of the DALLAS
BAR ASSOCIATION’S STATEMENT OF GOALS OF DALLAS LAW FIRMS AND
CORPORATE LEGAL DEPARTMENTS FOR INCREASING MINORITY HIRING,
RETENTION AND PROMOTION (“Statement”) to the City Attorney, which was signed by an agent authorized to commit Law Firms to the goals and intentions of the Statement.
The Law Firms agree to abide by the Statement throughout the term of this Contract.
B. The Law Firms covenant that they will take all necessary actions to ensure that, in connection with any work under this Contract, Law Firms will not discriminate in the treatment or employment of any individual or groups of individuals on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex or handicap unrelated to job performance, wither directly, indirectly or through contractual or other arrangements. Law Firms shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C.A. Sections 121091-12213, as amended.
C. Law Firms further agree to comply with the City’s M/WBE Good Faith Effort Plan in the performance of this Contract.
6.4 This Contract shall be binding upon the parties, their successors, and assignees; provided, however, that this Contract is for professional services and neither Law Firm shall assign this Contract, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the City.
6.5 All notices, communications, and reports required or permitted under this Contract shall be by personal delivery, by facsimile transmission, or by mail to the respective parties by depositing same in the United States mail, postage prepaid at the addresses shown below.
Mailed notices shall be deemed communicated as of five days after mailing.
For notice to the CITY:
City Attorney’s Office City of Dallas 1500 Marilla, 7DN Dallas, Texas 75201 Attn.: City Attorney Phone: (214) 670-3519
For Notice to Bond Counsel:
[INSERT]
Fax: (214) 670-0622
For Notice to Co-Bond Counsel:
[INSERT]
6.6 If any word, phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this Contract, or the application of same to any person or set of circumstances is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable, that finding shall only effect such word, phrase, clause, sentence or provision, and such finding shall not affect the remaining portions of this Contract, this being the intent of the parties in entering into this transaction; and all provisions of this Contract are declared to be severable for this purpose.
6.7 This Contract is made subject to the charter and ordinances of City, as amended, and all applicable state and federal laws.
6.8 This Contract is performable in Dallas County, Texas, and venue for any legal action under this Contract shall lie exclusively in Dallas County, Texas; and in construing this Contract, the laws and court decisions of the State of Texas shall control.
6.9 Law Firms agree to comply with the provisions of Attachment 1, attached hereto and made a part hereof, concerning conflict of interests and gifts to public servants.
6.10 A. Law Firms shall procure, pay for and maintain during the term of this Contract, the minimum insurance coverage required in Exhibit D. Each Law Firm agrees that no claim by the City for damages resulting from breach of either Law Firm’s duties to the City in connection with the representation shall be limited to the amount of malpractice insurance maintained by each Law Firm.
B. Approval, disapproval or failure to act by City regarding any insurance supplied by Contractor or its subcontractors shall not relieve Law Firms of full responsibility or liability for damages, errors, omissions or accidents as set forth in this Contract. The bankruptcy or insolvency of a Law Firm’s insurer or any denial of liability by a Law Firm’s insurer shall not exonerate Contractor from the liability or responsibility of Contractor set forth in this Contract.
6.11 Law Firms shall retain all records relating to this Contract for a minimum of 3 years following termination, during which time City reserves the right to audit such records at its election. Law Firms shall maintain strict confidentiality in the performance of this Contract and shall not disclose any information or documentation related to the subject matter of this Contract without the written approval of the City Attorney.
6.12 The City retains the right to inspect all City client files maintained by each Law Firm in connection with this Contract. The City also retains the right to audit the bills submitted by each Law Firm for a claim for fees, expenses, disbursements or other charges under this Contract. Any such audits shall be conducted at City expense in a manner that does not disrupt the business of such firm.
6.13 Failure by the City to insist in any one or more instances upon performance of any of the terms and conditions of this Contract shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment of the future performance of any terms and conditions, and the Law Firms’ obligation with respect to such performance shall continue in full force and effect.
6.14 This Contract (with all referenced Exhibits, attachments, and provisions incorporated by reference) embodies the entire agreement of both parties, superseding all oral or written previous and contemporary agreements between the parties relating to matters set forth in this Contract. Except as otherwise provided elsewhere in this Contract, this Contract cannot be modified without written supplemental agreement executed by both parties.
6.15 This Contract may be executed, including electronically, in one or more counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and constitute one and the same instrument. If this Contract is executed in counterparts, then it shall become fully executed only as of the execution of the last such counterpart called for by the terms of this Contract to be executed.
6.16 Pursuant to Section 2271.002, Texas Government Code, the Law Firms hereby (i) represent that they do not boycott Israel, and (ii) subject to or as otherwise required by applicable federal law, including without limitation 50 U.S.C. Section 4607, agrees they will not boycott Israel during the term of the Contract. As used in the immediately preceding sentence, “boycott Israel” shall have the meaning given such term in Section 2271.001, Texas Government Code.
6.17 Law Firms hereby represent that (i) they do not engage in business with Iran, Sudan or any foreign terrorist organization and (ii) are not listed by the Texas Comptroller under Section 2252.153, Texas Government Code, as an entity or company known to have contracts with or provide supplies or services to a foreign terrorist organization. As used in the immediately preceding sentence, “foreign terrorist organization” shall have the meaning given such term in Section 2252.151, Texas Government Code.
6.18 Pursuant to Section 2274.002, Texas Government Code, the Law Firms hereby represent that they (i) do not have a practice, policy, guidance, or directive that discriminates against a firearm entity or firearm trade association; and (ii) will not discriminate during the term of the contract against a firearm entity or firearm trade association. As used in the immediately preceding sentence, “firearm entity” and firearm trade association” shall have the meanings given such terms in Section 2274.001, Texas Government Code.
6.19 Pursuant to Section 2276.002, Texas Government Code, the Law Firms hereby represent that they (i) do not boycott energy companies; and (ii) will not boycott energy companies during the term of this Contract. As used in the preceding sentence, “boycott energy company” shall have the meanings given such terms in Section 2276.001, Texas Government Code.
6.20 Notwithstanding anything contained herein, the representations and covenants contained in Sections 6.16 – 6.20 shall survive termination of the agreement until the statute of limitations has run.
6.21 A. Law Firms shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, place of birth, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics, or disability unrelated to job performance. Law Firms shall take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during their employment without regard to their race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, place of birth, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics, or disability unrelated to job performance. This action shall include, but not be limited to, the following: employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection of training, including apprenticeship. Law Firms shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C.A. §§12101-12213, as amended. Law Firms agree to post in conspicuous places a notice, available to employees and applicants, setting forth the provisions of this non-discrimination clause.
B. Law Firms shall, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of Law Firms, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, place of birth, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics, or disability unrelated to job performance.
C. Law Firms shall furnish all information and reports required by the City Manager or their designee and shall permit the City Manager or their designee to investigate its payrolls and personnel records which pertain to current contracts with City for purposes of ascertaining compliance with this equal employment opportunity clause.
D. Law Firms shall file compliance reports with City as may be required by the City
Manager or their designee. Compliance reports must be filed within the time, must contain information as to the employment practices, policies, programs, and statistics of Law Firms, and must be in the form that the City Manager or their designee prescribes.
E. If Law Firms fails to comply with the equal employment opportunity provisions of this Contract, it is agreed that City at its option may do either or both of the following:
(1) Cancel, terminate or suspend this Contract in whole or in part;
(2) Declare Law Firms ineligible for further City contracts until it is determined to be in compliance.
6.22 Law Firm shall not sell, assign, transfer or convey its interest or rights in the Contract, or any claim or cause of action related thereto, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the City Manager. As an express condition of consent to any assignment, Law Firm shall remain liable for completion of the Contract work in the event of default by the successor contractor or assignee.
6.23 In case any one or more of the provisions contained in this Contract shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of this Contract, and this Contract shall be considered as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had never been contained in this Contract.
6.24 The captions to the various clauses of this Contract are for informational purposes only and shall not alter the substance of the terms and conditions of this Contract.
6.25 This Contract is entered into solely for the benefit of Law Firm and the City. No third-party will be deemed a beneficiary of this Contract, and no third-party will have any right to make any claim or assert any right under this Contract.
6.26 The person or persons signing and executing this Contract on behalf of Law Firm, or representing themselves as signing and executing this Contract on behalf of Law Firm, do hereby warrant and certify that he, she, or they have been duly authorized by Law Firm to execute this Contract on behalf of Law Firm and to validly and legally bind Law Firm to all terms, performances and provisions herein set forth.
[Remainder of this page left intentionally blank. Signatures appear on the following page.]
EXECUTED as of the ____ day of ___________, 2025, by City, signing by and through its City Manager, duly authorized to execute same by Resolution No. ____________, adopted by the City Council on _____________, 2025, and by Law Firms, acting through their respective duly authorized officials.
APPROVED AS TO FORM: CITY OF DALLAS:
TAMMY L. PALOMINO KIMBERLY BIZOR TOLBERT
City Attorney City Manager
BY BY
Assistant City Attorney Assistant City Manager
BOND COUNSEL: CO-BOND COUNSEL:
[INSERT] [INSERT]
By: By:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
Bond Counsel – Pricing Structure
EXHIBIT C
FEES
1.1. Contingent fees for Bond Counsel services for [Insert Bond Counsel Firm Full Name], in connection with a proposed issuance of City’s Bonds shall be: (1) payable at the hourly rates set forth below for Bond Counsel services rendered in connection with a bond issuance, plus
(2) an additional bond opinion fee of $[Insert] per $[Insert] of increment of bonds sold shall be payable for the Bond Opinion rendered by Bond Counsel regarding the validity of the bonds and federal tax exempt status of the interest on the City’s Bonds (which Bond Opinion shall be printed on the City’s Bonds) and such other opinions as may be requested by the City Attorney, City Manager, or City Council in connection with the issuance, sale and delivery of the City’s Bonds.
Bond Counsel Hourly Rate Partners $[Insert] Senior Counsel/Senior Associates $[Insert] Associates $[Insert] Paralegals $[Insert]
1.2. Contingent fees for Co-Bond Counsel services for [Insert Co-Bond Counsel Firm Full
Name] in connection with a proposed issuance of City’s Bonds shall be: (1) payable at the hourly rates set forth below for Bond Counsel services rendered in connection with a bond issuance, plus (2) an additional bond opinion fee of $[Insert] per $[Insert] of increment of bonds sold shall be payable for the Bond Opinion rendered by Co-Bond Counsel regarding the validity of the bonds and federal tax exempt status of the interest on the City’s Bonds (which Bond Opinion shall be printed on the City’s Bonds) and such other opinions as may be requested by the City Attorney, City Manager, or City Council in connection with the issuance, sale and delivery of the City’s Bonds.
Bond Counsel Hourly Rate Partners $[Insert] Senior Counsel/Senior Associates $[Insert] Associates $[Insert] Paralegals $[Insert]
Bond Counsel – Attachment I
ATTACHMENT I
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
A. Law Firm and its employees, agents or associates are required to make regular, timely, continual and full disclosures to the City Attorney of all significant outside interests and responsibilities that may give rise to a direct or indirect conflict of interest, including, but not limited to, any and all significant outside interests and responsibilities that could reasonably be expected to impair independence of judgment in Law Firm’s performance of all of the services under this Contract. Such disclosures must be made no later than ten (10) days following the event giving rise to the potential or actual conflict of interest for the duration of the Contract term. A potential or actual conflict of interest exists when commitments and obligations to the City or widely recognized professional norms are likely to be compromised in Law Firm’s performance of its duties under this Contract by the existence of Law Firm’s other professional relationships, contracts, obligations, or commitments. Failure to disclose such a conflict of interest may result in the City’s immediate termination of this Contract by the City Manager.
B. The following section of the Charter of the City of Dallas shall be one of the conditions, and a part of, the consideration of this Contract, to wit:
“CHAPTER XXII. Sec. 11. FINANCIAL INTEREST OF EMPLOYEE OR OFFICER
PROHIBITED -
(a) No city official or employee shall have any financial interest, direct or indirect, in any contract with the city, or be financially interested, directly or indirectly, in the sale to the city of any land, materials, supplies or services, except on behalf of the city as a city official or employee. Any violation of this section shall constitute malfeasance in office, and any city official or employee guilty thereof shall thereby forfeit the city official’s or employee’s office or position with the city. Any violation of this section, with knowledge, express or implied, of the person or corporation contracting with the city shall render the contract involved voidable by the city manager or the city council.
(b) The alleged violations of this section shall be matters to be determined either by the trial board in the case of employees who have the right to appeal to the trial board, and by the city council in the case of other employees.
(c) The prohibitions of this section shall not apply to the participation by city employees in federally funded housing programs, to the extent permitted by applicable federal or state law.
(d) This section does not apply to an ownership interest in a mutual or common investment fund that holds securities or other assets unless the person owns more than 10 percent of the value of the fund.
Bond Counsel – Attachment I
(e) This section does not apply to non-negotiated, form contracts for general city services or benefits if the city services or benefits are made available to the city official or employee on the same terms that they are made available to the general public.
(f) This section does not apply to a nominee or member of a city board or commission, including a city appointee to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Board. A nominee or member of a city board or commission, including a city appointee to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Board, must comply with any applicable conflict of interest or ethics provisions in the state law and the Dallas City Code.”
GIFT TO PUBLIC SERVANT
City may terminate this Contract immediately if Law Firm has offered, or agreed to confer any benefit upon a City employee or official that the City employee or official is prohibited by law from accepting.
For purposes of this paragraph, “benefit” means anything reasonably regarded as pecuniary gain or pecuniary advantage, including benefit to any other person in whose welfare the beneficiary has a direct or substantial interest, but does not include a contribution or expenditure made and reported in accordance with law.
Notwithstanding any other legal remedies, City may require Law Firm to remove any employee of Law Firm from work with this Contract who has violated the restrictions of this paragraph or any similar state or federal law, and obtain reimbursement for any expenditures made as a result of the improper offer, agreement to confer, or conferring of a benefit to a City employee or official.
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