$1.2 Million Boost Sought for Fire Recovery Consulting Contract

Pasadena finance officials will ask the City Council on Monday to increase a disaster recovery consulting contract by $1.2 million to help secure maximum reimbursement for January’s devastating windstorm and fire events.

The proposed amendment would boost Frame Group LLC’s contract from $250,000 to $1.45 million. A report by the Department of Finance said the consulting firm helps the city navigate complex federal reimbursement processes.

Frame Group has worked with the city since August. The firm coordinates Federal Emergency Management Agency claims, insurance recovery and grant applications.

City officials say the increased funding is needed because key recovery projects have grown more complex than expected. The Don Benito reservoir and Police Training Center require deeper technical analysis.

FEMA is advancing projects at an accelerated pace, creating increased demand for federal, state, county and city coordination, according to city documents.

The city expects to recover the consulting costs through multiple sources. Insurance claim preparation coverage provides up to $1 million. FEMA’s management cost reimbursement process is capped at 5% of accepted projects, currently estimated at $450,000.

Frame Group was selected in April after a competitive bidding process. Sixteen firms submitted proposals. The company demonstrated extensive experience with California disaster recovery operations.

The Finance Department initially issued an emergency procurement request in response to the January 2025 windstorm and critical fire events. These events caused significant damage throughout Pasadena.

Frame’s team includes expertise in FEMA Public Assistance programs and hazard mitigation. The firm has supported similar disaster recovery efforts for Los Angeles County and multiple California cities.

FEMA request deadlines are rapidly changing. Officials say rapid responses are required. Frame’s expertise has identified additional eligible expenses for reimbursement.

The $1.45 million will be appropriated from the General Fund’s unappropriated balance. Any future service costs will be included in subsequent fiscal year budgets.