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DYNAMIC STORYTELLING STRATEGIC MESSAGING IMPACTFUL CREATIVITY PURPOSEFUL CONNECTIONS PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

243 Oberlin Ave., Claremont, CA 91711 (909) 445-1001 vmapr.com

FIRM PROFILE VMA is a full-service, multilingual, and multicultural communications firm that provides high-quality and creative communications that enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve. Since 1996, our award-winning, in-house team has partnered with public agencies across California to turn complex initiatives into clear, compelling stories that engage the public and elevate organizational visibility for clients such as LA Metro, Pasadena Unified School District, Whittier Union High School District, California High-Speed Rail, Delta Conveyance Authority, and many more.

Certified as DBE, SB (Micro), SBE, SMBE/SWBE, WBE, CBE, and LSBE.

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OUR TOOLS AND TACTICS

PUBLIC RELATIONS y Key Message Development y Social Media & Digital Advertising y Print & Digital Materials y Issue / Crisis Management

COMMUNITY OUTREACH & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS y Meeting Facilitation y Community Events & Open Houses y Surveys & Digital Engagement Tools y Government Relations

CREATIVE SERVICES y Websites & Microsites y Photography & Video Production y Drone Footage & Animation y Translation Services

MEDIA RELATIONS y Media Training y Media Outreach & Management y Press Events y Media Buys

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Modesto

Millbrae SFO San José

CASE STUDY

Merced Madera

Gilroy Fresno

Kings/Tulare

CALIFORNIA HIGH-SPEED RAIL STATEWIDE SYSTEM

Proposed Statewide Alignment

Sacramento

Bakersfie

Stockton

San Francisco

Modesto

Millbrae SFO San José

Merced Madera

Gilroy Fresno

Kings/Tulare

Burban

Los Ang

Bakersfield

Palmdale

LEGEND Phase 1 Phase 2 HSR Stations

Burbank Los Angeles Anaheim

LEGEND Phase 1 Phase 2 HSR Stations

VMA-LED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT San Diego

EFFECTIVE PUBLIC OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT

SUBJECT TO CHANGE – FEBRUARY 2021

CALIFORNIA HIGH-SPEED RAIL The California High-Speed Rail Authority is building an 800-mile system connecting California’s major population centers through one of the largest infrastructure projects in U.S. history. With a $65 billion budget and construction extending through agricultural, suburban, and urban communities, effective communication has been essential to maintaining public understanding and support.

workshops, and briefings to educate residents, engage local leaders, and resolve technical concerns. We directed outreach for the Bakersfieldto-Palmdale and Burbank-to-Los Angeles project sections, both of which achieved CEQA/ NEPA clearance in 2020 and 2021, marking the first Southern California segments to reach that milestone.

VMA Communications has led large-scale outreach and engagement efforts from Shafter to San Diego, spearheading CEQA/NEPA public involvement, Title VI compliance, political coordination, and government affairs strategy. Our team organized and facilitated hundreds of public meetings,

Earlier, VMA played a pivotal role in building statewide momentum for the system’s launch by managing political outreach and campaign communications that contributed to the passage of Proposition 1A, the $9.95 billion HSR bond initiative.

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CASE STUDY

STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE COMMUNITY AND LEGISLATURE

KARMA AUTOMOTIVE In 2023, Karma Automotive entered a new chapter focused on innovation, sustainability, and workforce development. To elevate its profile and connect with the community, Karma partnered with VMA Communications to highlight the company’s role in clean transportation and local economic growth.

VMA built partnerships with colleges, trade schools, and civic leaders, coordinating tours of the Karma Innovation and Customization Center in Moreno Valley and the Irvine Design Studio for educators and elected officials. The firm also produced

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VMA elevates client priorities with public officials through events like “Karma Day.”

branded videos, fact sheets, and collateral that showcased Karma’s advanced technology, job training initiatives, and regional impact.

In 2024, VMA organized Karma Day at the State Capitol, where the Karma Revero was displayed and policymakers, including Congressman Mark Takano, experienced the company’s commitment to innovation firsthand. These efforts expanded Karma’s visibility, strengthened local partnerships, and positioned the company as a leader in California’s evolving clean-energy economy.

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CASE STUDY

BRANDING, STRATEGIC OUTREACH, AND INFRASTRUCTURE STORYTELLING

METROLINK Metrolink’s $10-billion Southern California Optimized Rail Expansion (SCORE) program advances the agency’s vision of a zero-emissions future while improving reliability, safety, and access ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. To support this effort, Metrolink engaged VMA Communications to increase awareness, build community support, and strengthen brand consistency.

VMA developed a comprehensive branding strategy and messaging framework that unified SCORE materials such as fact sheets, flyers, and social media graphics across all communications. VMA

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SCAN TO WATCH:

STATE OF GOOD REPAIR

continues to provide strategic outreach and event support to reinforce Metrolink’s role as a trusted mobility provider.

In 2024, VMA produced Metrolink: State of Good Repair, a short documentary capturing behind-thescenes inspections, technology, and maintenance efforts that keep trains safe and sustainable.

Through compelling storytelling and visuals, the video helped riders and stakeholders better understand the agency’s commitment to reliability and environmental stewardship.

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CASE STUDY

TY FLOOD

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Credits

FOOTHILL BOULEVARD

e, Clean W, the Saf al, Measure vides loc Through gram pro increase Los , to Water Pro funding ter supply dedicated unty’s local wa e enhanc Co ality, and Angeles generates water qu improve ies. The program fund to r nit yea each commu urban 5 million up to $28 fit stormwater and ts jec multi-bene e projects. Pro ipal tur nic runoff cap achieving mu (MS4) in ed that assist rm sewer system ture Bas sto utilize Na separate pliance, efits permit com /or provide ben es are and niti ns, Solutio Commu to the antaged g adv din Dis fun e to to receiv prioritized le. sib extent fea

ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

perty le for pro is availab lifying program ent qua A credit o implem that result owners wh improvements ply ter water sup ent s, efit stormwa quality ben nity enhancem in water mu upcoming and com ns for the benefits, t at Applicatio December 31s benefits. each te. due bsi are tax year ter LA we Clean Wa the Safe,

Tax Calculation

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Appeals

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40%

50%

TY LA CO UN RO L CO NT FLOO D DISTR ICT

Funding Distribution

tion, informa er LA For more Flood Control District Program (10%) , Clean Wat rg, the Safe LA.o please visit SafeCleanWater unty.gov, at Municipal Program (40%) pw.laco website nWaterLA@Water hotline Clea n email Safe Safe, Clea 275-7297 Regional Program (50%) or call the -SCWP or 1(833) ASK at 1(833)

• District Program (10% of Total Revenue): LA County Flood Control District administers the program and oversees capacity building programs including public education programs, local workforce job training, and school education programs.

• Municipal Program (40% of Total Revenue): Cities receive direct funding proportional to the revenues generated within their boundaries to address local Stormwater and Urban Runoff challenges and opportunities.

Wednesday, February 23, 2022 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. via Zoom

• Regional Program (50% of Total Revenue): Nine Watershed Area Steering Committees develop annual Stormwater Investment Plans. Watershed Coordinators connect potential applicants with technical resources and build inclusion and meaningful engagement.

Zoom Link: https://bit.ly/foothill-blvd-atp2 Passcode: 174322

Los Angeles County Public Works is excited to announce a new planning initiative along Foothill Boulevard to better connect the Cities of Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, and the unincorporated community of La Crescenta-Montrose.

We want to hear from you as we explore active transportation improvements along the corridor, including new and upgraded bike lanes, safer pedestrian access, bus stop enhancements, and new street trees and landscaping.

Join us to learn more about the Plan and how you can get involved!

This meeting will be held in English. If you require translation or meeting materials in another language, please email us at slai@pw.lacounty.gov.

RSVP/Questions: Shirley Lai Project Manager slai@pw.lacounty.gov (626) 300-2619

The Safe, Clean Water special parcel tax is 2.5 cents per square foot of impermeable surface area on properties within the LA County Flood Control District. Impermeable surfaces are areas covered by hardscape-like materials such as buildings and other structures, asphalt, and concrete. Tax bills are mailed each October.

Exemptions and Reductions Low-income senior property owners may apply for an exemption from the special parcel tax. Very low-income and extremely low-income household property owners may apply for a reduction from the special parcel tax. Forms available at the Safe, Clean Water LA website are due May 1st for each upcoming tax year.

Parcels that are exempt from ad valorem property taxes are automatically exempt from this special parcel tax. This includes qualifying non-profit organizations and other exempt properties.

Curious how money is being spent?

Visit the Safe, Clean Water LA website.

Annual Regional Program Sequence

1 2

Regional Program Call for Projects opens

3

Steering Committees develop an recommend annual Stormwater Investment Plans (SIPs) based on Scoring Committee input, watershed needs, and alignment with Program Goals

4

Regional Oversight Committee reviews SIPs and provides recommendations to County Boa of Supervisors regarding final SIP approval

5

Upon approval of SIPs, project developers enter into fund Transf Agreements with District and receive funds

Proponents work with Watershed Coordinators and communities to develop and submit multi-benefi projects and studies by the annu deadline (typically July 31st)

• For the Regional Program, visit the Safe, Clean Water Program Portal to see details for all projects to date, progress reports, and customizable summaries of benefits provided • For the Municipal Program, view Annual Plans at the Municipalities page

Sign-Ups Open for Bear-Resistant Cart Program!

Bear-resistant carts can significantly reduce food waste access, thereby mitigating conflicts and enhancing the safety of both bears and humans.

¡Inscripciones abiertas para el programa de carritos de basura resistentes a los osos!

Los carros resistentes a los osos pueden reducir significativamente el acceso al desperdicio de alimentos, mitigando así los conflictos y mejorando la seguridad tanto de los osos como de los humanos.

Scan QR Code to sign-up or call UWS at (626) 677-3990 or (888) CleanLA Escanee el código QR para registrarse o llame a UWS al (626) 677-3990 o (888) CleanLA.

CREATIVE SERVICES AND TARGETED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

From e-waste to SB 1383 compliance, VMA helps communities get waste rules right.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS Since 2019, VMA Communications has served on the Los Angeles County Public Works Communications Bench, providing strategic outreach, design, and multimedia services across multiple divisions.

VMA has produced drone videography showcasing major construction programs in East Los Angeles, Calabasas, and Ladera Park; delivered highquality graphic design for fact sheets, brochures, and digital media; and supported community outreach for projects such as the Huntington Drive reconstruction.

For LA County Waterworks, VMA developed a refreshed brand identity and conservation

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messaging for bill inserts and social media, along with a fifth-grade curriculum to promote water stewardship.

The team also planned and executed the County’s Organic Waste Management Summit, crafting bilingual messaging and outreach materials to advance public understanding of Senate Bill 1383.

Through creativity, responsiveness, and technical expertise, VMA has become a trusted partner helping Public Works engage residents, visualize progress, and communicate complex infrastructure programs clearly and effectively.

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CASE STUDY

PROJECT AREA: Metro Bakersfield Moves will focus on transit investments in this area:

GET INVOLVED AND STAY CONNECTED! Public participation is critical to the development of the LRTP. Input opportunities include:

PUBLIC MEETINGS POP UP EVENTS

PROJECT WEBSITE ONLINE SURVEYS

Visit the project website to learn more:

BakersfieldMoves.com

Golden Empire Transit (GET) needs your input to develop a new Long-Range Transit Plan (LRTP) for the Metro Bakersfield area.

Metro Bakersfield Moves is a collaboration between GET and Kern Council of Governments. The first phase of the year-long planning effort involves analyzing existing transit service, demographics, and travel patterns.

Public participation is a vital component of the LRTP. Transit riders, community stakeholders, and regional partners will be engaged throughout the project. The completed LRTP will include detailed recommendations for transit service and capital investments over the next 20 years.

KEY ELEMENTS OF THE PLAN:

Identify local and regional transportation needs, challenges, and opportunities

Create a cohesive planning effort by listening to transit riders and community stakeholders

Prioritize short to long-term transit investments for Metropolitan Bakersfield

PROJECT TIMELINE: WINTER 2022 Kickoff project

PUBLIC MEETING FACILITATION AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

SPRING

FALL

WINTER 2023

Analyze existing conditions

Develop potential scenarios

Develop draft recommendations

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

SPRING

Finalize recommendations

The Metro Bakersfield LRTP will be a component of the Kern COG Regional Transportation Plan.

OVER

KERN COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS When the Kern Council of Governments (COG) initiated a study to identify new transit opportunities for rural communities in 2018, VMA Communications was selected to lead public engagement. The challenge was to reach dispersed populations across a large county and gather meaningful feedback on mobility needs.

VMA created a multilingual outreach plan that included stakeholder briefings, pop-up information tables, public open houses, and presentations at local events. Materials such as fact sheets,

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FAQs, comment cards, and display graphics were developed in both English and Spanish. The team coordinated ad placements in regional and community media outlets and collaborated with local organizations to share meeting notices.

This inclusive, accessible outreach model successfully increased participation and produced actionable community input, resulting in stronger engagement outcomes than previous efforts and ensuring that residents’ voices directly informed the study’s recommendations.

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CASE STUDY

MEETING FACILITATION

SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (AB 617) Since 2018, VMA Communications has supported the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (AQMD) AB 617 Community Steering Committees, grassroots groups that shape air-quality and healthimprovement plans for environmental justice communities across Southern California.

VMA has worked closely with communities in the Eastern Coachella Valley, Wilmington/Carson/West Long Beach, and East Los Angeles/Boyle Heights/ West Commerce, providing bilingual facilitation and outreach support tailored to each region’s needs. The firm has managed both in-person and virtual meetings, coordinated logistics, and ensured

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inclusive participation by residents, community leaders, and technical experts. VMA currently serves as the lead facilitator for the Eastern Coachella Valley, continuing to guide engagement efforts and strengthen community-driven collaboration.

Drawing on deep cultural and regional expertise, VMA helps translate complex air-quality information into accessible and actionable dialogue. The team’s facilitation and consensus-building skills have been instrumental in developing air-monitoring and emissions-reduction plans that reflect genuine community priorities and drive measurable environmental progress.

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VMA INSTANTLY ‘GOT US.’

Their insights, expertise, and strategic input in community outreach, special events management, government affairs, and public relations have been invaluable. Importantly, they worked with all our stakeholders, educating and encouraging residents and business leaders to participate in the process as well as strengthening relationships with local and state politicians.

— Tom Bakaly, Beach Cities Health District, Chief Executive Officer

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YOUR NEXT PROJECT STARTS HERE. CONNECT WITH US TODAY. PUBLIC AFFAIRS | COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT | MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

243 Oberlin Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711 | (909) 445-1001 | vmapr.com |