STAFF MEMO To: i-GATE Development Corporation Board of Directors From: Brandon Cardwell Date: July 26th, 2016 Subject: Authorization of Agreement with Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel and Appointment of Sblend Sblendorio to i-GATE Development Corporation Board of Directors
Summary At their meeting on February 4th, 2016, the i-GATE Development Corporation Board of Directors voted unanimously to amend the organization’s bylaws to require a minimum funding contribution of $5,000 per year in order to be eligible to serve on the board of directors. In addition, the board allowed itself the option to appoint up to three “at-large” board members whose seats would not be subject to the funding requirement; the expressed intent of these seats was to allow specific, high-value positions – investors, experienced entrepreneurs, etc. – to lend their expertise without having to fund the organization. Also discussed at the meeting was the possibility of prospective board members providing in-kind services equal to the $5,000 annual contribution. Specifically cited was past chairman Sblend Sblendorio, who suggested that he would consider providing in-kind legal services to i-GATE through his firm Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel (Hoge Fenton) in order to be eligible for a board seat under the new requirements. The board generally concurred that this would be worth exploring given Sblend’s knowledge of i-GATE, past service, and legal expertise. Recommendation Staff recommends the board authorize the executive director to enter into an agreement with Hoge Fenton to provide in-kind legal services in an amount equivalent to $5,000 per year, and to elect Sblend Sblendorio to the i-GATE Board of Directors.
Attachment 1: Agreement with Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel for In-Kind Legal Services