HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution BPW 04-17-24-04/MAC/$92,000/Marketing & Branding Professional ServicesRESOLUTION NO. BPW 04-17-24-04
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CARMEL BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS AND SAFETY
ACKNOWLEDGING AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY AND VENDOR
WHEREAS, pursuant to Indiana Code 36-1-4-7, the City of Carmel, Indiana (“City”), is authorized to enter
into contracts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Indiana Code 36-4-5-3, the City’smayor may enter into contracts on behalf ofthe
City; and
WHEREAS, pursuant toher authority under Indiana law, the City’smayor, the Honorable Sue Finkam, has
caused tobe signed the Agreement attached hereto (the “Contract”); and
WHEREAS, Mayor Finkam now wishes to present the contract to the City’sBoard of Public Works and
Safety for it to be publicly acknowledged, filed in the Clerk’sOffice, and made available to the public for review.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety as
follows:
1. The foregoing Recitals are incorporated herein by this reference.
2. The receipt of the Contract is hereby acknowledged.
3. The Contract shall be promptly filed in the office of the Clerk and thereafter made available to the public
for review.
SO RESOLVED this day of , 2024.
CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA
By and through its Board of Public Works and Safety
BY:
Sue Finkam, Presiding Officer
Date:
Laura Campbell, Member
Date:
Alan Potasnik, Member
Date:
ATTEST:
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Date:
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
4/17/2024
4/17/2024
4/17/2024
April17
4/17/2024
CzBmmjtpoMzodi.NdHsbuibu2;46qn-Bqs21-3135
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
The Burdette Agency, Inc. d/b/a/ North Star Place Branding + Marketing
Marketing and Community Relations Department - 2024
Appropriation #1203 101 43-404.01 & 43-593.00 Fund; P.O. #s 111068 & 111084
Contract Not To Exceed $92,000.00
6. DISCLOSURE AND WARNINGS:
If requested by City, Vendor shall promptly furnish to City, in such form and detail as City may direct, a list of
all chemicals, materials, substances and items used in or during the provision of the Goods and Services
provided hereunder, including the quantity, quality and concentration thereof and any other information relating
thereto. At the time of the delivery of the Goods and Services provided hereunder, Vendor agrees to furnish to
City sufficient written warning and notice (including appropriate labels on containers and packing) of any
hazardous material utilized in or that is a part of the Goods and Services.
7. LIENS:
Vendor shall not cause or permit the filing of any lien on any of City’s property. In the event any such lien is
filed and Vendor fails to remove such lien within ten (10) days after the filing thereof, by payment or bonding,
City shall have the right to pay such lien or obtain such bond, all at Vendor’s sole cost and expense.
8. DEFAULT:
In the event Vendor: (a) repudiates, breaches or defaults under any of the terms or conditions of this
Agreement, including Vendor’s warranties; (b) fails to provide the Goods and Services as specified herein; (c)
fails to make progress so as to endanger timely and proper provision of the Goods and Services and does not
correct such failure or breach within five (5) business days (or such shorter period of time as is commercially
reasonable under the circumstances) after receipt of notice from City specifying such failure or breach; or (d)
becomes insolvent, is placed into receivership, makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors or
dissolves, each such event constituting an event of default hereunder, City shall have the right to (1) terminate
all or any parts of this Agreement, without liability to Vendor; and (2) exercise all other rights and remedies
available to City at law and/or in equity.
9. INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION:
Vendor shall procure and maintain in full force and effect during the term of this Agreement, with an insurer
licensed to do business in the State of Indiana, such insurance as is necessary for the protection of City and
Vendor from all claims for damages under any workers’ compensation, occupational disease and/or
unemployment compensation act; for bodily injuries including, but not limited to, personal injury, sickness,
disease or death of or to any of Vendor’s agents, officers, employees, contractors and subcontractors; and, for
any injury to or destruction of property, including, but not limited to, any loss of use resulting therefrom. The
coverage amounts shall be no less than those amounts set forth in attached Exhibit C. Vendor shall cause its
insurers to name City as an additional insured on all such insurance policies, shall promptly provide City, upon
request, with copies of all such policies, and shall provide that such insurance policies shall not be canceled
without thirty (30) days prior notice to City. Vendor shall indemnify and hold harmless City from and against
any and all liabilities, claims, demands or expenses (including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney fees) for
injury, death and/or damages to any person or property arising from or in connection with Vendor’s provision
of Goods and Services pursuant to or under this Agreement or Vendor’s use of City property.
Vendor further agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless City and its officers, officials, agents, and
employees from all claims and suites of whatever type made against them by a third party including but not
limited to, all court costs, attorney fees, and other expenses, caused by any act or omission of Vendor and/or
of any of Vendor’s agents, officers, employees, contractors or subcontractors in the performance that
constitutes a breach of this Agreement. However, Vendor shall have no obligation or duty to defend, indemnify,
or hold harmless to the extent any claims or suits are caused by the acts or omissions of the City, of any of the
indemnified parties, or of any third party. These indemnification obligations shall survive the termination of this
Agreement.
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DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
The Burdette Agency, Inc. d/b/a/ North Star Place Branding + Marketing
Marketing and Community Relations Department - 2024
Appropriation #1203 101 43-404.01 & 43-593.00 Fund; P.O. #s 111068 & 111084
Contract Not To Exceed $92,000.00
10. GOVERNMENT COMPLIANCE:
Vendor agrees to comply with all federal, state and local laws, executive orders, rules, regulations and codes
which may be applicable to Vendor’s performance of its obligations under this Agreement, and all relevant
provisions thereof are incorporated herein by this reference. Vendor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless
City from any loss, damage and/or liability resulting from any such violation of such laws, orders, rules,
regulations and codes. This indemnification obligation shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
11. NONDISCRIMINATION:
Vendor represents and warrants that it and all of its officers, employees, agents, contractors and
subcontractors shall comply with all laws of the United States, the State of Indiana and City prohibiting
discrimination against any employee, applicant for employment or other person in the provision of any Goods
and Services provided by this Agreement with respect to their hire, tenure, terms, conditions and privileges of
employment and any other matter related to their employment or subcontracting, because of race, religion,
color, sex, handicap, national origin, ancestry, age, disabled veteran status and/or Vietnam era veteran status.
12. E-VERIFY:
Pursuant to I.C. § 22-5-1.7 et seq., as the same may be amended from time to time, and as is incorporated
herein by this reference (the “Indiana E-Verify Law”), Vendor is required to enroll in and verify the work eligibility
status of its newly-hired employees using the E-Verify program, and to execute the Affidavit attached herein
as Exhibit D, affirming that it is enrolled and participating in the E-Verify program and does not knowingly
employ unauthorized aliens. In support of the Affidavit, Vendor shall provide the City with documentation
indicating that it has enrolled and is participating in the E-Verify program. Should Vendor subcontract
for the performance of any work under and pursuant to this Agreement, it shall fully comply with the Indiana E-
Verify Law as regards each such subcontractor. Should the Vendor or any subcontractor violate the Indiana
E-Verify law, the City may require a cure of such violation and thereafter, if no timely cure is performed,
terminate this Agreement in accordance with either the provisions hereof or those set forth in the Indiana E-
Verify Law. The requirements of this paragraph shall not apply should the E-Verify program cease to exist.
13. NO IMPLIED WAIVER:
The failure of either party to require performance by the other of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect
the right of such party to require such performance at any time thereafter, nor shall the waiver by any party of
a breach of any provision of this Agreement constitute a waiver of any succeeding breach of the same or any
other provision hereof.
14. NON-ASSIGNMENT:
Vendor shall not assign or pledge this Agreement, whether as collateral for a loan or otherwise, and shall not
delegate its obligations under this Agreement without City’s prior written consent.
15. RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES:
The relationship of the parties hereto shall be as provided for in this Agreement, and neither Vendor nor any
of its officers, employees, contractors, subcontractors and agents are employees of City. The contract price
set forth herein shall be the full and maximum compensation and monies required of City to be paid to Vendor
under or pursuant to this Agreement.
16. GOVERNING LAW; LAWSUITS:
This Agreement is to be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of Indiana, except
for its conflict of laws provisions. The parties agree that, in the event a lawsuit is filed hereunder, they waive
their right to a jury trial, agree to file any such lawsuit in an appropriate court in Hamilton County, Indiana only,
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DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
The Burdette Agency, Inc. d/b/a/ North Star Place Branding + Marketing
Marketing and Community Relations Department - 2024
Appropriation #1203 101 43-404.01 & 43-593.00 Fund; P.O. #s 111068 & 111084
Contract Not To Exceed $92,000.00
and agree that such court is the appropriate venue for and has jurisdiction over same.
17. SEVERABILITY:
If any term of this Agreement is invalid or unenforceable under any statute, regulation, ordinance, executive
order or other rule of law, such term shall be deemed reformed or deleted, but only to the extent necessary to
comply with same, and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
18. NOTICE:
Any notice provided for in this Agreement will be sufficient if itis in writing and is delivered by postage prepaid
U.S. certified mail, return receipt requested, to the party to be notified at the address specified herein:
If to City: City of Carmel AND City of Carmel
Marketing and Community Relations Office of Corporation Counsel
One Civic Square One Civic Square
Carmel, Indiana 46032 Carmel, Indiana 46032
If to Vendor: The Burdette Agency, Inc. d/b/a North Star Place Branding + Marketing
1023 Kings Ave.
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Notwithstanding the above, notice of termination under paragraph 19 hereinbelow shall be effective if given
orally, as long as written notice is then provided as set forth hereinabove within five (5) business days from the
date of such oral notice.
19. TERMINATION:
19.1 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, City may, upon notice to Vendor,
immediately terminate this Agreement for cause, in the event of a default hereunder by Vendor and/or
if sufficient funds are not appropriated or encumbered to pay for the Goods and Services to be provided
hereunder. In the event of such termination, Vendor shall be entitled to receive only payment for the
undisputed invoice amount representing conforming Goods and Services delivered as of the date of
termination, except that such payment amount shall not exceed the Estimate amount in effect at the
time of termination, unless the parties have previously agreed in writing to a greater amount.
19.2 City may terminate this Agreement at any time upon thirty (30) days prior notice to Vendor. In the
event of such termination, Vendor shall be entitled to receive only payment for the undisputed invoice
amount of conforming Goods and Services delivered as of the date of termination, except that such
payment amount shall not exceed the Estimate amount in effect at the time of termination, unless the
parties have previously agreed in writing to a greater amount.
19.3 The City may terminate this Agreement pursuant to Paragraph 11 hereof, as appropriate.
20. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
The parties represent and warrant that they are authorized to enter into this Agreement and that the persons
executing this Agreement have the authority to bind the party which they represent.
21. ADDITIONAL GOODS AND SERVICES
Vendor understands and agrees that City may, from time to time, request Vendor to provide additional goods
and services to City. When City desires additional goods and services from Vendor, the City shall notify Vendor
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DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
The Burdette Agency, Inc. d/b/a/ North Star Place Branding + Marketing
Marketing and Community Relations Department - 2024
Appropriation #1203 101 43-404.01 & 43-593.00 Fund; P.O. #s 111068 & 111084
Contract Not To Exceed $92,000.00
of such additional goods and services desired, as well as the time frame in which same are to be provided.
Only after City has approved Vendor’s time and cost estimate for the provision of such additional goods and
services, has encumbered sufficient monies to pay for same, and has authorized Vendor, in writing, to provide
such additional goods and services, shall such goods and services be provided by Vendor to City. A copy of
the City’s authorization documents for the purchase of additional goods and services shall be numbered and
attached hereto in the order in which they are approved by City.
22. TERM
Unless otherwise terminated in accordance with the termination provisions set forth in Paragraph 19
hereinabove, this Agreement shall be in effect from the Effective Date through December 31, 2024 and shall,
on the first day of each January thereafter, automatically renew for a period of one (1) calendar year, unless
otherwise agreed by the parties hereto.
23. HEADINGS
All heading and sections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and do not form a part of this
Agreement nor limit, expand or otherwise alter the meaning of any provision hereof.
24. BINDING EFFECT
The parties, and their respective officers, officials, agents, partners, successors, assigns and legal
representatives, are bound to the other with respect to all of the covenants, terms, warranties and obligations
set forth in Agreement.
25. NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES
This Agreement gives no rights or benefits to anyone other than City and Vendor.
26. DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION
26.1 The Vendor certifies by entering into this Agreement that neither it nor its principals nor any of its
subcontractors are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible or voluntarily
excluded from entering into this Agreement by any federal agency or by any department, agency or political
subdivision of the State of Indiana. The term “principal” for purposes of this Agreement means an officer,
director, owner, partner, key employee or other person with primary management or supervisory
responsibilities, or a person who has a critical influence on or substantive control over the operations of the
Vendor.
26.2 The Vendor certifies that it has verified the state and federal suspension and debarment status for all
subcontractors receiving funds under this Agreement and shall be solely responsible for any recoupment,
penalties or costs that might arise from use of a suspended or debarred subcontractor. The Vendor shall
immediately notify the City if any subcontractor becomes debarred or suspended, and shall, at the City’s
request, take all steps required by the City to terminate its contractual relationship with the subcontractor for
work to be performed under this Agreement.
27. IRAN CERTIFICATION
Pursuant to I.C. § 5-22-16.5, the Vendor shall certify that, in signing this Agreement, it does not engage in
investment activities within the Country of Iran.
28. ADVICE OF COUNSEL:
The parties warrant that they have read this Agreement and understand it, have had the opportunity to obtain
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NORTH STAR + CITY OF CARMEL, IN CONTRACT ADDITIONS
Contract Additions:
In the event of any direct or indirect conflicts between the terms and conditions
of these Contract Additions set forth below and the terms and conditions of
the Agreement for Purchase of Goods and Services to which these Contract Additions
are attached, and any other agreements, terms, conditions, or attachments, then
the Contract Additions set forth below shall govern, prevail, control and supersede.
Not to Exceed Fee Is Governed By Hours
A fee of $85,000 will be paid to North Star for third party research
expenditures and for professional time involved in the production of a
BrandPrint Report which is not to exceed four hundred and fifteen (415)
hours. The agreed upon maximum (415) hours to be dedicated to the
project will be the governing factor in the depth of the Document. North
Star expects to complete the scope of work within this allotment of hours
and will not exceed the maximum number of hours for the project or the
time period forecasted (32 weeks, which is the 28-week schedule outlined
plus a 4-week cushion for scheduling delays).
Fee Schedule
North Star will invoice the client 33% of the project fee, or $28,333, at
contracting. The second 33%, or $28,333, will be invoiced after the Research
Strategy presentation. The remaining 33% ($28,334) will be invoiced at the
delivery of the Final Report. Travel expenses are additional and will be
billed as incurred. A service charge of 1-1/2% (18% per annum) will be
charged on all sums not paid within a 30-day period after the date of
billing. The Client agrees to pay all costs of collection and a reasonable
attorney's fee incurred in the collection of past due accounts.
Obligation of City To Keep Project on Schedule
Consultant has provided a project schedule and will communicate feedback
and approval deadlines and City meeting requirements to the City at each
forthcoming milestone. City delays on scheduled approvals or setting
meetings essential to project progress will be tracked and communicated at
monthly intervals. If the delays and others caused by the City's decision to
deviate from North Star's recommended process are not made up for over
the life of the project and the project extends beyond the 32-week limit,
North Star reserves the right to bill the final installment at week 32, then
work at an hourly rate of $195 per hour thereafter or negotiate a lump sum
completion fee with the City based on the project’s current status.
Exhibit A
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Incremental Work, Hourly Rate
Any additional requests of North Star beyond the agreed upon Document
and designated hours will be billed at the blended rate of $195.00 per hour
or estimated at a project rate. Should additional work be requested, for
work beyond the scope of this Agreement, North Star will receive written
approval of the additional related cost prior to initiating work.
Mutual Termination Clause
Notwithstanding any other provisions hereof, North Star or the Client may
terminate this Agreement at any time upon thirty days written notice to
either parties. If termination of the Agreement is requested by the Client prior
to completion of the Document, the Client will remain responsible for payment
of all hours involved in the preparation of the Document prior to said
termination at a rate of $195.00 per hour. Client will be responsible for
payment of any outside cost incurred prior to the termination including costs
of materials ordered or delivered thereafter if North Star is unable to halt
such delivery. Under no circumstances will North Star be obligated to breach
any lawful contractual commitment to others.
Termination Responsibilities
Upon termination of this Agreement, North Star shall transfer, assign and
make available to the Client, or its representatives, all property and
materials in its possession or control belonging to the Client and paid for
by the Client. In the event that the material, which is the subject of this
Agreement, is copyrightable subject matter, North Star and Client agree
that for the purposes of this order the material shall be a work made for
hire and the property of the Client. In the event that the material which is
the subject of this Agreement is not copyrightable subject matter, or for
any reason is determined not to be a work made for hire, then and in
such event North Star hereby assigns all right, title and interest to said
material to Client for the fees specified herein. Concepts, logos and
straplines not selected by the Client remain the intellectual property of
North Star.
Confidentiality
The Client agrees to cooperate with North Star in the performance of the
Services, including meeting with North Star and providing North Star with
such non-confidential information that the Client may have that may be
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relevant and helpful to North Star's performance of the Services. It may be
necessary for the Client to share trade secrets and/or other confidential
and/or proprietary information or matter with North Star. The parties agree
that such information and the materials referenced in the contract, the
results and developments therefrom are confidential and/or proprietary
information belonging to the Client.
North Star agrees not to disclose to any third party any such trade secrets
and/or confidential or proprietary information for its own separate benefit.
North Star will be responsible for its employees or agents complying with
the provisions of this Agreement.
Obligation of City to Purchase Third Party Assets
Stock photography and typography used for the demonstration of creative
concepts is not to be reproduced or published in any way without the City
first negotiating and paying for usage rights with the appropriate stock
image or typography provider. Additionally, City is responsible for securing
rights to use locally oriented photos utilized in the educational website
and in the Final Presentation or Final Report.
Obligation of City to Secure IP Clearance or Trademark if Desired
To ensure that the recommended strapline (tagline) is available for use and
capable of being trademarked, North Star will conduct a trademark
registration search with the United States Patent and Trademark Office via
their web site: http://www.uspto.gov/main/trademarks.htm. North Star will
report any records found relating to the strapline but the Client should seek
legal counsel for further determination of conflicts and such determination
is ultimately the responsibility of the Client. If the Client wishes to pursue a
trademark registration, North Star can make introductions to intellectual
property attorneys and suggest steps to take. The pursuit of an official,
legally-binding trademark is the responsibility of the Client.
With regard to the logo selected by the Client, North Star will test it with a
basic online image search ahead of finalization to determine if there are
any known likenesses or conflicts. The art within the logo will be an original
creation and will become the property of the Client, but the online image
search is not an exhaustive search tool. North Star will alert the Client of
online search findings but, ultimately, seeking a trademark for the logo will
be the responsibility of the Client.
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Modification of Agreement
This Agreement may be modified only upon the written and mutual
consent of both parties. This Agreement and the documents referenced
herein embody the entire Agreement of the parties. This Agreement shall
supersede all previous communications, representations or agreements
either verbal or written, between the parties. This procurement is being
conducted on behalf of and may be used by other public bodies, agencies,
institutions and localities of the several states, territories of the United
States and the District of Columbia with the consent of the Contractor.
Indemnification
North Star would like to review the nature and depth of your
indemnification. While we hold ourselves to all professional standards,
there can be extraordinary circumstances unrelated to our work for which
we cannot accept responsibility. Often municipal indemnification clauses
can be too all-encompassing. We simply request a review and dialogue of
Carmel’s proposal.
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SCOPE OF WORK
Phase I: Market Research + Brand Strategy
Stakeholder Education
One of the most valuable skills North Star brings to the branding table is an understanding of
how to best navigate the political waters that surround a project. We know when projects can
derail, how to maneuver difficult political situations, and whom to include in the process. With
this in mind, we have developed strategies for sidestepping potential problems and keeping your
branding initiative on course.
Inclusiveness and early understanding are critical to the smooth implementation of a community
brand. Educating your residents, businesses, and stakeholders on the purpose, process, and
possibility of a brand early is the first step in achieving buy-in from these important audiences.
Specific attention must be given to your Steering Committee to ensure that the leaders of this
initiative share a vision for the purpose, desired outcomes, and accomplishments of this project.
North Star has created an array of educational tools designed to increase understanding of and
support for the Carmel branding initiative. To that end, we provide:
Educational Presentation: Live PowerPoint presentation (during the in-market trip) to your
Steering Committee and/or stakeholders groups (determined and assembled by you) for purposes
of educating and furthering buy-in of community branding. This is not a canned presentation. We
will collaborate with the City to determine who your audiences are and what you want to convey.
Then we will craft the presentation to meet those goals. This presentation can also be given in a
public ‘town hall’ forum to engage the community in the process and to gather initial feedback
from the public regarding opportunities to rebrand.
Community Engagement Website/Brand Story Site: This site serves as an online tool to direct
traffic of Carmel residents and stakeholders interested in learning more about the project, getting
involved in the research stage, or becoming a Brand Ambassador after the launch of the new
brand. This is a terrific tool to engage the Carmel community. Here is an example of a live
educational site for Johnson City, TN: brandjc.com
Research
North Star has identified the following research studies to help achieve Carmel ‘s branding and
marketing goals. This compiled body of data points us in the direction we need to go to craft
your story. You will notice both qualitative and quantitative studies included in this recommended
matrix. North Star strongly advocates a mixed method approach to research because it will tell
you not just “How, When, What, and Where” but also “Why.” Only through mixed methodology can
your community obtain a true picture of where your brand is now, why, where it should be, and
how your preferred identity can best be accomplished.
Situation Analysis: This establishes the current lay of the land from the perspective of your critical
partners and stakeholders. We administer an online questionnaire to each of your key internal
organizations. We then meet with each group during the in-market visit to more fully understand
your primary objectives, general history, political landscape, resources, competitors, etc.
Research, Planning, Communications, + Media Audit: We conduct a comprehensive review of
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https://w
ww.bran
djc.com/
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previous studies conducted by the City and planning documents. This includes community
outreach and planning meetings, surveys, intercept surveys, volunteer discussions, and market
research. In addition, we review and analyze marketing materials, branding, logos, social media,
and messaging from public and private sector partners as well as recent press related to Carmel.
Site Visit & Familiarization Tour: Members of the North Star team will spend the better part of a
week in Carmel conducting research. An important part of this trip is a FAM tour of Carmel’s
attractions, meeting facilities, hotels/motels, restaurants, commercial sites, local businesses,
retailers, restaurants, parks, natural areas, and historic sites. We determine the tour itinerary with
the help of Carmel project leadership.
Key Stakeholder Interviews + Focus Groups: Some of our most valuable pieces of insight for the
purpose of defining your DNA and crafting your creative work come from these intensive
one-on-one interviews and focus groups. With the assistance of the Carmel project leadership, we
want to identify and speak to key stakeholders about Carmel (including city staff, board members,
business community members, hoteliers, attraction owners, tour operators, nonprofit and civic
organizations, etc.). We also want to talk to articulate individuals who are passionate about the
City (artists, historians, teachers, coaches, ministers, matriarchs, patriarchs, activists, and more).
Mining of City of Carmel Community Survey for Resident Insights: While North Star originally
proposed a Community Survey and Brand Barometer, following its initial proposal North Star
learned of Carmel’s own community survey currently in the field. Rather than conduct another
community survey, North Star proposes to extract data from the City’s community survey in the
areas of demographics, top descriptors, assets, satisfaction, perceived municipal competencies and
NPS. For topics such as reputation, challenges, competitors and brand character, North Star will go
deeper in its qualitative efforts, derive these from external research and also pursue these insights
in the Creative Community Workshop. For those who cannot attend the Creative Community
Workshop we can send a simple brand character survey out to residents.
External Perception Study: North Star conducts qualitative, in-depth phone interviews with
professionals outside of Carmel to uncover contextual perspectives. In collaboration with the
Carmel project team, we compile a list of 20 identified potential interviewees from a target pool
of elected officials, third party site selectors, business executives in your preferred industries, tour
operators, regional and state level executives in economic development and tourism, and other
external influencers you identify.
Consumer Awareness + Perception Study (External Markets): For even more data-driven insights,
this survey is conducted using a statistically significant random sampling of consumers and
non-consumers in two outside markets using research panels. Data will be cross-tabulated in a
number of ways to reveal the most insightful patterns between consumer and non-consumer
groups. For instance, perceptions and attitudes for those who have visited Carmel will be
compared and contrasted to those who have not visited and are reporting perceptions purely on
reputation. This is key to identifying any brand recognition issues. This study measures:
Overall awareness and perceptions of Carmel
Overall awareness and perceptions of competitor cities
Measurements of Carmel’s delivery of quality of life indicators
Consumer experiences in Carmel
Attitudes regarding Carmel’s strengths and weaknesses
Consumer opinions regarding what needs to be added or taken away
Changes in consumer perceptions of Carmel after visiting
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Patterns of visitation activities associated with consumers’ primary purpose of visitation
Competitive Positioning Review : We provide a brand messaging and marketing strategy analysis
to evaluate Carmel’s position relative to the competition in the area. This review ranks each
competitor based on their brand strength, economic development focus, and tourism focus.
Insights + Strategy
Our insights come from asking a number of thought-provoking questions: What brand ‘‘story’’
does the research tell? What emotional attachments can the brand hold? What are Carmel’s core
values? How does the brand fit into the consumer’s lifestyle? How can the brand best be used to
elicit Carmel’s desired emotional/behavioral responses? How does Carmel stand apart from
competitors? These insight questions are compiled in a succinct storyline that leads directly to
the Carmel strategic brand platform (DNA Definition). This platform is the critical touch point for
all branded activity moving forward. For maximum brand impact, all efforts, thoughts,
communications, and actions should literally and symbolically support its essence.
Situation Brief + Insight Development: We get our sharpest minds together at one time to review
all of the research findings. Data on its face has limited value, but the connections between data
points open up understanding and opportunity. The entire North Star team weaves together these
connections into a compelling set of insights that start to tell Carmel’s story.
DNA Definition (Brand Positioning Statement): Based on those insights, a guiding statement for
the management and development of your brand is created. This definition should serve as the
touch point for all Carmel activity moving forward. It will help bring consistency across the brand.
Many of our communities reference their DNA Definition when making decisions about everything
from policy to infrastructure improvement to promotions. Included in your DNA Definition is:
Target audience: For whom Carmel has the most appeal
Frame of reference: Geographic context of Carmel
Point of difference: What makes Carmel special
Benefit: Why it should matter to the consumer
Here is an actual example of how this construct guided our client Sioux Falls, South Dakota and
led to their “Where Extra Is Ordinary” brand positioning:
Target audience: For givers and doers motivated to make an impact, scenic
Sioux Falls,
Frame of reference: the cultural center and economic engine for South Dakota and
the Northern Great Plains,
Point of difference: advances a legacy of investment (personal, cultural, civic,
professional)
Benefit: giving you a sense of belonging and outsized opportunities.
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Research and Strategy Presentation + Report: This represents a critical juncture in the project.
We prepare a comprehensive review of all relevant research, insights, and recommended DNA
Definition. We review the qualitative and quantitative analyses of Carmel’s current image and
positioning. A preview of this presentation is shared with key branding committee members for
editing and fine-tuning. The collaboratively perfected presentation is made in person at larger
stakeholder meetings, and the accompanying report is shared digitally. DNA Definition approval
is required before proceeding.
Phase II: Creative
Creativity
In this stage, the insights and strategy are transformed into tangible creative products that
embody Carmel . An in-depth Creative Brief and a Creative Workshop guide this process.
Straplines, logos, color, looks, and messaging (with brand standards) are created. Additional
deliverables will be developed to express the new brand identity in the context of its future use.
Creative Committee Workshop: A collaborative, interactive meeting between the North Star team
and the Carmel creative committee (a group of your choosing) will explore the roles of different
creative elements and identify creative preferences. Our goal is to most effectively hone in on
the type of work you want without limiting the creative thinking of our writers, graphic designers,
and art directors. This meeting is always a lot of fun for everyone involved.
Community Creative Workshop: In addition, we would like to hold a 1 ½ hour public workshop
session during our site visit or on a subsequent visit depending on scheduling. This workshop
usually held at an open, indoor public space or key partner space) allows interested citizens
of your city to hear about the process and provide their input. North Star will start the session
with the educational PowerPoint and then encourage attendees to provide their answers to
various city character question prompts.
Straplines + Rationale (5): A strapline (tagline) is not the be-all and end-all for your brand, but
it is the start of the story. Depending on how safe or edgy you want to be, Carmel straplines
can capture people’s attention immediately and pique their curiosity or they can serve as a
solid, hard-working tool that starts the job of positioning Carmel in the minds of consumers.
North Star will provide a minimum of five different straplines, along with rationale for the
strengths of each line. We will conduct trademark searches (via the United States Patent and
Trademark Office website) and Google searches to make sure there is basic clearance for each
line presented. Upon selection, your legal team is required to conduct a more thorough search
to ensure its availability, potentially securing a trademark if desired and avoiding any conflicts
once in the market.
Logos (5): We will present a minimum of five logo options for the City of Carmel that represent a
variety of concepts and provide a round of revisions to your selected logo. If departmental
versions are needed, North Star has a depth of experience in creating extensions of the master
logo. We would be glad to discuss this marginal increase to scope and cost if Carmel desires.
Color Palettes (2): Once your logo decision is made, we open up the possibilities visually by
allowing you to select between two distinct color palettes. This is a key decision in how your visual
brand identity will “feel” since color evokes emotion.
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Brand Narrative: Your DNA Definition articulates the core of what makes Carmel special. The
narrative takes that core and describes it in artistic and compelling language for connecting
emotionally with your different consumers. The narrative defines your personality and tone of
voice. It can be woven into ad copy, placed on websites, integrated into speeches, and distributed
to businesses to use in their own communications about the place they call home. The more it is
used, the more widely your brand is dispersed.
Looks (2): We craft two entirely different visual looks that allow you to choose how your brand
messaging will be conveyed in terms of headlines, photography style, special graphic elements,
detailing, and copy points. We will also provide a round of revisions for the look of your choice to
ensure it reflects your exacting standards. The Creative Committee will select one look, and it will
be applied to all subsequent deliverables.
Brand Standards Guide: This guide contains all the necessary information for using your logos,
color palette, typefaces, language, and other key elements to ensure consistency across all
mediums from any department or organization (print and electronic advertising, website design,
media placement, public relations, event, templates, etc.). We provide digital and printed versions
of this guide as well as InDesign files so you can edit the guide as necessary.
Custom Deliverables (8-10): To assist in the communication of the final brand concept, we will
work with you to identify a list of 8-10 custom deliverables that target your specific goals. This is
a powerful addition as it brings the logo and design to life through elements in the real world.
The production of associated materials remains outside of this scope—the deliverables are visual
examples. Options include, but are not limited to:
Social Media Graphics • Templates (Email Signature, Presentation, Newsletter, etc.)
Business Cards • Letterhead • Envelopes • Brochures • Building + Monument Signage • Vehicle Wraps
Print and Electronic Advertising Merchandise (Apparel, Accessories, etc.) • Built Environment Applications
Phase III: Action + Implementation
Implementation
Following your brand’s development, North Star has the ability to implement a strategic action
and communications plan to begin the work of repositioning Carmel in the marketplace. This plan
comprises the fundamental action steps that ensure the brand gains traction and maintains
momentum. Our goal, and yours, is to make sure that Carmel’s brand is the guiding principle for
your future, not just a logo and line on your letterhead. This plan will be developed at/around the
completion of the brand strategy and include estimated costs/budget and a suggested timeline
for implementation.
Community Communication + Rollout Guidance: The first and most important audience for your
brand and eventual campaign is your citizen base. To educate them on the process, the outcome,
and the opportunity the new brand creates, North Star will prescribe a community rollout plan
that details the brand and campaign to all interested stakeholders and citizens so that they can
see, understand, and embrace it before the wider marketplace launch. This will include engaging
those who sign up on the Community Engagement Website to be Brand Ambassadors.
Brand Action Ideas: These are both high-impact, custom ideas (up to 8) designed to raise the
profile of the new Carmel brand and bring it to life in your community and foundational brand
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launch/implementation ideas and activities. Many of these ideas involve setting up the
organization and cooperation that will propel your brand forward, while others serve as inspiration
for brand adoption in creative and unique ways. Many of these ideas may be accessible via a
best practices knowledge-sharing database that North Star developed. These ideas will address
brand touchpoints ranging from economic development activities, the arts, infrastructure, and
more.
Final Report + Presentation: At the completion of Phase III, we compile your brand into a final
presentation that summarizes the research and takes viewers through the foundational creative
development (line, logo, look, and color palette) as well as the steps of the action plan. Each step
is illustrated using the custom deliverable designs. We always leave time for discussion to ensure
understanding, buy-in, and a clean beginning to the ongoing implementation of your brand. Your
final report will show the research, strategy, creative work, and action plan in their entirety and
will be shared digitally along with raw data files, a logo suite, and JPEG image files of all
deliverables and your brand style guide.
Phase IV: Evaluation (Future/Optional)
Monitoring + Evaluation (Results Tracking)
Evaluation yields new information, which may lead to the beginning of a new planning cycle.
Information can be gathered from concept pre-testing, campaign impact in the marketplace, and
tracking studies to measure a brand’s performance over time.
Ideally, evaluation answers two basic questions: Have responses to the brand among target
audiences changed in the way the BrandPrint intended? And have these changes resulted in
action that will achieve the desired objectives of the brand?
The research studies in this plan are designed to produce benchmarks and results that can be
used for comparison with future studies. Additionally, over two decades of community branding
experience have shown us that true success can be seen in the spread of excitement,
inspiration, and innovation surrounding your brand among residents and stakeholders. Lastly, we
are always available to answer questions and help with later marketing riddles. We have
maintained an ongoing personal and business relationship with most of our clients, some for
more than a decade. These tracking studies are outside the proposed scope of work, but we
wanted Carmel to be aware of their future availability. The costs are reasonable.
We use the following tools to measure tactical effectiveness:
Social Media: We perform social listening audits for our clients and measure not only likes,
shares, and friends but also qualitative factors, such as sentiment.
12-Month Follow Up: We follow up after a year of your brand implementation to discuss the
successes you have enjoyed and hurdles that you are working to overcome. We provide
suggestions and direction for next steps in your continual brand integration.
Brand Barometer: Getting the talk right on the street is the most important thing a community
can do to bolster its development efforts. Word of mouth has always been important; in this
post-digital world, it is essential. With the benchmark included in your brand study, the Brand
Barometer becomes a simple and inexpensive way to periodically track your results and
validate your success in word of mouth advertising and resident advocacy..
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DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
PROJECT TIMELINE
Getting Started Call Week 1
Phase I
Market Research + Brand Strategy
Situation Analysis Weeks 1 - 2
Research + Planning Audit Weeks 1 - 2
Communication + Media Audit Weeks 1 - 2
Community Engagement Website Weeks 1 - 2
In-Market (Tour, Focus Groups, Interviews) Week 3 or 4
Mining City of Carmel Community Survey Weeks 4 - 6
External Perception Study Weeks 6 - 10
Consumer Awareness + Perception Survey Weeks 8 - 10
Competitive Positioning Review Weeks 8 - 10
Situation Brief + Insight Development Week 11
DNA Definition Development Weeks 11 - 13
Research + Strategy Presentation Week 14
Phase II
Creative
Creative Brief Development (Internal) Week 15
Creative Workshop/Community Workshop Week 15
Foundational Creative Development Weeks 16 - 21
Custom Deliverable Development Weeks 22 - 24
Phase III
Action + Implementation
Community Communication + Rollout Guidance Weeks 25 - 26
Brand Action Ideas Weeks 26 - 27
Final Report + Presentation Week 28
Proposed Timeline 28 Weeks
Timeline is dependent upon an efficient client approval process, which requires that data and feedback from the
client is received at key milestones. If the client approval and consensus process takes longer than 32 weeks, North
Star will invoice any remaining contracted amount at that time and reserves the right to propose project extension
fees at a blended hourly rate.
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DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
COST PROPOSAL
Partnering with the City of Carmel is not a responsibility we take lightly. If it becomes
necessary, we are interested in collaborating with Carmel project leaders and stakeholders to
create an even more custom scope of work for perfecting this important initiative.
Phase I. Research, Insights, + Strategy $30,000
Phase II. Creative $30,000
Phase III. Action + Implementation $25,000
Total $85,000
This cost proposal has been calculated with consideration to third party costs associated with the
research (we subscribe to a research tool) and North Star’s blended hourly rate of $195/hr. Travel &
miscellaneous are additional (pass-through basis), with pre-approval from the City on travel expenditures.
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EXHIBIT B
Invoice
Date:
Name of Company:
Address & Zip:
Telephone No.:
Fax No.:
Project Name:
Invoice No.
Purchase Order No:
Goods Services
Person Providing
Goods/Services
Date
Goods/
Service
Provided
Goods/Services Provided
Describe each good/service
separately and in detail)
Cost Per
Item
Hourly
Rate/
Hours
Worked
Total
GRAND TOTAL
Signature
Printed Name
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
EXHIBIT C
INSURANCE COVERAGES
Worker’s Compensation & Disability Statutory Limits
Employer’s Liability:
Bodily Injury by Accident/Disease: $100,000 each employee
Bodily Injury by Accident/Disease: $250,000 each accident
Bodily Injury by Accident/Disease: $500,000 policy limit
Property damage, contractual liability,
products-completed operations:
General Aggregate Limit (other than
Products/Completed Operations): $500,000
Products/Completed Operations: $500,000
Personal & Advertising Injury
Policy Limit: $500,000
Each Occurrence Limit: $250,000
Fire Damage (any one fire): $250,000
Medical Expense Limit (any one person): $ 50,000
Comprehensive Auto Liability (owned, hired and non-owned)
Bodily Single Limit: $500,000 each accident
Injury and property damage: $500,000 each accident
Policy Limit: $500,000
Umbrella Excess Liability
Each occurrence and aggregate: $500,000
Maximum deductible: $ 10,000
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
4/2/2024
NORTH STAR PLACE BRANDING
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 -
111068
1023 KINGS AVE
City of Carmel
ONE CIVIC SQUARE
CARMEL, INDIANA 46032-2584
FORM APPROVED BY STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS FOR CITY OF CARMEL - 1997
INDIANA RETAIL TAX EXEMPT
CERTIFICATE NO. 003120155 002 0
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX EXEMPT
35-6000972
PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER
THIS NUMBER MUST APPEAR ON INVOICES, A/P
VOUCHER, DELIVERY MEMO, PACKING SLIPS,
SHIPPING LABELS AND ANY CORRESPONDENCE
PURCHASE ORDER DATE DATE REQUIRED REQUISITION NO. VENDOR NO. DESCRIPTION
VENDOR SHIP
TO
PURCHASE ID BLANKET CONTRACT PAYMENT TERMS FREIGHT
EXTENSION
MARKETING & BRANDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
1 CIVIC SQ
Carmel, IN 46032-
377754
UNITPRICEDESCRIPTIONUNITOFMEASUREQUANTITY
Page 1 of 1
85698
1203Department:101Fund:General Fund
43-404.01Account:
MARKETING & BRANDING PROFESSIONALSERVICES1 $6,177.00 $6,177.00Each
6,177.00SubTotal
43-593.00Account:
MARKETING & BRANDING PROFESSIONALSERVICES1 $78,823.00 $78,823.00Each
78,823.00SubTotal
85,000.00
Send Invoice To:
PLEASE INVOICE IN DUPLICATE
DEPARTMENT ACCOUNT PROJECT PROJECT ACCOUNT AMOUNT
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
SHIP PREPAID.
C.O.D. SHIPMENT CANNOT BE ACCEPTED.
PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER MUST APPEAR ON ALL SHIPPING LABEL
AND ACTS AMENDATORY THEREOF AND SUPPLEMENT THERETO.
THIS ORDER ISSUED IN COMPLIANCE WITH CHAPTER 99, ACTS 1945
PAYMENT
A/P VOUCHER CANNOT BE APPROVED FOR PAYMENT UNLESS THE P.O. NUMBER IS MADE A
PART OF THE VOUCHER AND EVERY INVOICE AND VOUCHER HAS THE PROPER SWORN
AFFIDAVIT ATTACHED. I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THERE IS AN UNOBLIGATED BALANCE IN
THIS APPROPRIATION SUFFICIENT TO PAY FOR THE ABOVE ORDER.
CONTROL NO. 111068
ORDERED BY
TITLE
CONTROLLER
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
1 Civic Square
Carmel, IN 46032-
Rebecca Carl James Crider
Director Chief of Staff
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F
4/4/2024
NORTH STAR PLACE BRANDING
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 -
111084
1023 KINGS AVE
City of Carmel
ONE CIVIC SQUARE
CARMEL, INDIANA 46032-2584
FORM APPROVED BY STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS FOR CITY OF CARMEL - 1997
INDIANA RETAIL TAX EXEMPT
CERTIFICATE NO. 003120155 002 0
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX EXEMPT
35-6000972
PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER
THIS NUMBER MUST APPEAR ON INVOICES, A/P
VOUCHER, DELIVERY MEMO, PACKING SLIPS,
SHIPPING LABELS AND ANY CORRESPONDENCE
PURCHASE ORDER DATE DATE REQUIRED REQUISITION NO. VENDOR NO. DESCRIPTION
VENDOR SHIP
TO
PURCHASE ID BLANKET CONTRACT PAYMENT TERMS FREIGHT
EXTENSION
TRAVEL EXPENSES RELATING TO CONTRACT
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
1 CIVIC SQ
Carmel, IN 46032-
377754
UNITPRICEDESCRIPTIONUNITOFMEASUREQUANTITY
Page 1 of 1
86343
1203Department:101Fund:General Fund
43-404.01Account:
TRAVEL EXPENSES RELATING TOCONTRACT1 $7,000.00 $7,000.00Each
7,000.00SubTotal
7,000.00
Send Invoice To:
PLEASE INVOICE IN DUPLICATE
DEPARTMENT ACCOUNT PROJECT PROJECT ACCOUNT AMOUNT
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
SHIP PREPAID.
C.O.D. SHIPMENT CANNOT BE ACCEPTED.
PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER MUST APPEAR ON ALL SHIPPING LABEL
AND ACTS AMENDATORY THEREOF AND SUPPLEMENT THERETO.
THIS ORDER ISSUED IN COMPLIANCE WITH CHAPTER 99, ACTS 1945
PAYMENT
A/P VOUCHER CANNOT BE APPROVED FOR PAYMENT UNLESS THE P.O. NUMBER IS MADE A
PART OF THE VOUCHER AND EVERY INVOICE AND VOUCHER HAS THE PROPER SWORN
AFFIDAVIT ATTACHED. I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THERE IS AN UNOBLIGATED BALANCE IN
THIS APPROPRIATION SUFFICIENT TO PAY FOR THE ABOVE ORDER.
CONTROL NO. 111084
ORDERED BY
TITLE
CONTROLLER
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
1 Civic Square
Carmel, IN 46032-
Rebecca Carl James Crider
Director Chief of Staff
DocuSign Envelope ID: 6BDF4B1B-CD17-4BCC-BA9C-91F658DA575F