HomeMy WebLinkAbout16-Human Resources
CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO - REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
From:
Linn Livingston
Subject: MERCER BROKER AND
HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
SERVICES AGREEMENT.
Dept:
Human Resources
Date: May 26, 2011
MICC Meeting Date: June 6, 2011
Synopsis of Previous Council Action:
On August 16, 2010, Mayor and Common Council authorized the execution of an agreement
with Mercer Health and Benefits LLC to provide broker and administration services to the City's
employee Healthcare program.
On May 3,2010, Mayor and Common Council authorized the Director of Human Resources to
negotiate the terms of a contract with Mercer Health & Benefits for broker administration
servIces.
Recommended Motion:
/
Adopt Resolution.
Contact person:
Linn Livinoston
Phone:
384-5161
Supporting data attached:
Ward:
FUNDING REQillREMENTS: Amount: $282.500 FY 2011-12: $290.000 FY 2012-13
Source: (Acct. No.) 001-090-5502-0000-0053
(Acct. Description) Health & Life Insurance
Finance:
Council Notes:
Agenda Item No. I ( {J
6~-tX..e- :30 ( I
CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO - REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Staff Report
SUBJECT
Resolution of the Mayor and Common Council of the City of San Bernardino authorizing the
execution of an amended agreement with Mercer Health and Benefits LLC to provide broker and
administration services for the City's health care program.
BACKGROUND
On May 3, 2010, Mayor and Common Council authorized the Director of Human Resources to
negotiate the terms of the contract with Mercer Health & Benefits for broker and administration
services for the City's health care plans. On August 16, 2010, Mayor and Common Council
authorized the execution of an agreement with Mercer Health and Benefits LLC to provide
broker and administration services to the City's employee health care program pending updated
language in the services agreement.
The City Attorney's Office and Mercer's Legal Team collaborated to finalize language agreeable
to both parties. The Human Resources Department is requesting the services agreement be
approved with the updated language in the services agreement (see attached).
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The cost of these services is $282,500 for FY 2011-12 and $290,000 for FY 2012-13. Pricing is
a flat annual fee for services quoted. Funds for these services will be appropriated in the General
Govemment division in the FY 2011-12 and FY 2012-13 budgets.
The Water Department participates in the City's Health Care plans and services. The cost share
portion for FY 2011-12 to the Water Department (Master Services Agreement) is $48,500. This
will reduce the City contribution to $234,000 for FY 2011-12.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution.
Resolution No
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RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN
BERNARDINO AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AMENDED AGREEMENT
WITH MERCER HEALTH AND BENEFITS LLC TO PROVIDE BROKER AND
ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE CITY'S HEALTH CARE PROGRAM.
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WHEREAS, on August 16, 2010, Mayor and Common Council of the City of San
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Bernardino authorized the execution of an agreement with Mercer Health and Benefits LLC to
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provide broker and administration services to the City's employee healthcare program pending
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updated language in the services agreement (Resolution 2010-277); and
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WHEREAS, the City Attorney's Office and Mercer's legal team collaborated to finalize
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language agreeable to both parties; and
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WHEREAS, the original Agreement commenced on July 1,2010 and was for a period of
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one (1) year with an option of two (2), one (1) year extensions;
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BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
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SAN BERNARDINO AS FOLLOWS:
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SECTION 1: The City Manager of the City of San Bernardino is hereby authorized and
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directed to execute on behalf of said City an Amended Agreement with Mercer Health and
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Benefits LLC to provide health, broker, and administration services for a period of one (1) year
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with an option of a one (1) year extension, commencing on July I, 2011; authorize the
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Purchasing Manager to issue an annual purchase order as outlined in Exhibit "A" and
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incorporated herein by reference as fully as though set forth at length.
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SECTION 2: That the Director of Finance or his/her designee is hereby authorized to
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issue an annual Purchase Order to Mercer Health and Benefits LLC in an amount not to exceed
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$282,500 and an additional one (1) year extension, not to exceed $290,000 respectively.
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RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN
BERNARDINO AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AMENDED AGREEMENT
WITH MERCER HEALTH AND BENEFITS LLC TO PROVIDE BROKER AND
ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE CITY'S HEALTH CARE PROGRAM.
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SECTION 3: The authorization to execute the above mentioned agreement is rescinded
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if the parties to the agreement fail to sign it within sixty (60) days of the passage of this
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resolution.
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RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN
BERNARDINO AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AMENDED AGREEMENT
2 WITH MERCER HEALTH AND BENEFITS LLC TO PROVIDE BROKER AND
ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE CITY'S HEALTH CARE PROGRAM.
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4 I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Mayor and
5 the Common Council of the City of San Bernardino at a
meeting thereof,
, 20 II, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES
NA YES
ABSTAIN ABSENT
Rachel G. Clark, City Clerk
The foregoing resolution IS hereby approved this
day of
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, 20 II.
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PanickJ.Morris,Mayor
City of San Bernardino
Approved as to form:
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JAMES F. PENMAN,
City Attorney
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, ~L~-- ,
By: v .. 1-4 '21....... /"0><--xI
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SERVICES AGREEMENT
2 THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of this 1st day of July, 2010
3 ("Effective Date"), by and between the CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO, a charter city ("City" or
4 "Client"), and MERCER HEALTH & BENEFITS LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
5 ("CONSULTANT" or "Mercer").
6 WIT N E SSE T H:
7 WHEREAS, CITY proposes to have CONSULTANT perform the services described
8 herein below; and
9 WHEREAS, CONSULTANT represents that it has that degree of specialized expertise
10 contemplated within California Government Code, Section 37103, and holds all necessary
11 licenses to practice and perform the services herein contemplated; and
12 WHEREAS, CITY and CONSULTANT desire to contract for professional services as
13 described in the Scope of Services, attached hereto as Exhibit "A"; and
14 WHEREAS, no official or employee of CITY has a financial interest, within the
15 provisions of California Government Code, Sections 1090-1092, in the subject matter of this
16 Agreement.
17 NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions
18 contained herein, the parties hereby agree as follows:
19 1.0. SERVICES PROVIDED BY CONSULTANT
20 1.1. Scope of Services. For the remuneration stipulated, CONSULTANT
21 shall provide the professional services described in the Scope of Services
22 attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by this reference
23 ("Services"). If a conflict arises between the Scope of Services document
24 and this Professional Services Agreement (hereinafter "Agreement"), the
25 terms of the Scope of Services shall govern.
Exhibit "A"
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1.2. Professional Practices. All Services to be provided by CONSULTANT
pursuant to this Agreement shall be provided by skilled personnel and in
a manner consistent with the standards of care, diligence and skill
ordinarily exercised by professional consultants in similar fields and
circumstances in accordance with sound professional practices.
CONSULTANT also warrants that it is familiar with all laws that may
affect its performance of this Agreement and shall advise CITY of any
changes in any laws that may affect CONSULTANT's performance of
this Agreement if the CONSULTANT has actual knowledge of such
changes.
1.3. Warranty. CONSULTANT warrants that it shall perform the Services
required by this Agreement in compliance with all applicable Federal and
California employment laws including, but not limited to, those laws
related to minimum hours and wages; occupational health and safety; fair
employment and employment practices; workers' compensation insurance
and safety in employment; and all other Federal, State and local laws and
ordinances applicable to the services required under this Agreement.
CONSULTANT shall indemnify and hold harmless CITY from and
against all claims, demands, payments, suits, actions, proceedings, and
judgments of every nature and description including reasonable attorneys'
fees and costs, or recovered against CITY to the extent arising from
CONSULTANT's violation of any such applicable law.
1.4. Non-discrimination. In performing this Agreement, CONSULTANT
shall not engage in, nor permit its officers, employees or agents to engage
in, discrimination in employment of persons because of their race,
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religion, color, national ongm, ancestry, age, mental or physical
disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual gender or sexual
orientation, except as permitted pursuant to Section 12940 of the
Government Code. Violation of this provision may result in the
imposition of penalties referred to in Labor Code, Section 1735.
1.5 Non-Exclusive Agreement. CONSULTANT acknowledges that CITY
may enter into agreements with other consultants for services similar to
the Services that are subject to this Agreement or may have its own
employees perform services similar to those Services contemplated by
this Agreement.
1.6. Delegation and Assignment. This is a personal service contract, and the
duties set forth herein shall not be delegated or assigned to any person or
entity without the prior written consent of CITY, which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld or delayed. CONSULTANT may engage a
subcontractor(s) as permitted by law and may employ other personnel to
perform services contemplated by this Agreement at CONSULTANT's
sole cost and expense.
1.7 Conflicts of Interest. During the term of this Agreement,
CONSULTANT shall at all times maintain a duty of loyalty as to the
CITY and shall not accept payment from or employment with any person
or entity which will constitute a conflict of interest with the CITY.
1.8 CITY Business Certificate. CONSULTANT shall obtain and maintain
during the term of this Agreement, a valid CITY Business Registration
Certificate pursuant to Title 5 of the City of San Bernardino Municipal
Code and any and all other licenses, permits, qualifications, insurance
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and approvals of whatever nature that are legally required of
CONSULTANT to practice its profession, skill or business.
3 2.0. COMPENSATION AND BILLING
4 2.1. Compensation. Except as provided herein, CONSULTANT
5 compensation shall be as set forth in Exhibit A.
6 2.2. Additional Services. CONSULTANT shall not receive compensation for
7 any services provided outside the scope of services specified in the
8 Exhibit A unless the CITY, prior to CONSULTANT performing the
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additional services, approves such additional services in writing. It is
specifically understood that oral requests and/or approvals of such
additional services or additional compensation shall be barred and are
unenforceable.
2.3. Method of Billing. CONSULTANT may submit invoices to CITY for
approval. Said invoice shall be based on the total of all CONSULT ANT's
services which have been performed in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement during the period covered by such invoice. CITY shall pay
CONSULTANT's invoice within thirty (30) days from the date CITY
receives said invoice. The invoice shall describe in detail, the services
performed and the associated time for completion. Any additional
services approved and performed pursuant to this Agreement shall be
designated as "Additional Services" and shall identify the number of the
authorized change order, where applicable, on all invoices.
2.4. Performance Standard Guarantees. The CONSULTANT shall reduce
the total cost of service related fees to the project, up to a maximum of
10%, if their services are not satisfactory to the CITY as outlined in the
chart (Exhibit "B").]
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2.5
Records and Audits. Records of CONSULTANT's Services directly
relating to this Agreement shall be maintained in accordance with
generally recognized accounting principles and shall be made available to
CITY for inspection and/or audit at mutually convenient times for a
period of three (3) years from the Effective Date. Any such inspection
shall be conducted at the CITY's expense, during normal business hours
and upon reasonable prior written notice to CONSULTANT. Such audit
shall also be subject to the execution of a confidentiality agreement
reasonably satisfactory to CONSULT ANT.
10 3.0. TERM AND NOTIFICATION.
11 3.1. Term. This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and
12 continue until the third anniversary of the Effective Date unless the
13 Agreement is previously terminated as provided for herein.
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3.2
3.3
Termination. CITY or CONSULTANT may terminate the Services
provided under Section 1.1 of this Agreement upon thirty (30) days
written notice to the other party. In the event of termination,
CONSULTANT shall be paid the reasonable value of Services rendered
to the date oftermination.
Documents. In the event of an early termination of this Agreement, all
documents prepared by CONSULTANT in its performance of this
Agreement shall be delivered to the CITY within ten (10) days of
delivery of termination notice to CONSULTANT, at no cost to CITY.
Any use of uncompleted documents without specific written
authorization from CONSULTANT shall be at CITY's sole risk and
without liability or legal expense to CONSULTANT.
4.0. INSURANCE
2 4.1. Scope and Limits of Insurance. CONSULTANT shall obtain and
3 maintain during the term of this Agreement all of the following insurance
4 coverage:
5 (a) Commercial general liability, including premises-operations,
6 products/completed operations, broad form property damage,
7 blanket contractual liability, independent contractors, personal
8 injury with a policy limit of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00)
9 per occurrence and Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) general
10 aggregate.
11 (b) Automobile liability for owned vehicles, hired, and non-owned
12 vehicles, with a policy limit of One Million Dollars
13 ($1,000,000.00), combined single limits, per occurrence and
14 aggregate.
15 (c) Workers' compensation msurance as required by the State of
16 California.
17 4.2. Endorsements. The commercial general liability insurance policy shall
18 contain or be endorsed, using general policy endorsements, to contain the
19 following provisions:
20 (a) Additional insured: "The City of San Bernardino and its elected
21 and appointed boards, officers, and employees are additional
22 insured with respect to their vicarious liability arising out of
23 CONSULTANT'S performance of the Services hereunder."
24 (b) Other insurance: "Any other insurance maintained by the City of
25 San Bernardino shall be excess and not contributing with the
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insurance provided by this policy with respect to claims arising
solely and directly from CONSULTANT's provision of the
Services. "
4.3. Certificates of Insurance. CONSULTANT shall provide to CITY
certificates of insurance showing the insurance coverage and required
endorsements described above, prior to performing any services under
this Agreement.
4.4. Non-limiting. Nothing in this Section shall be construed as limiting in
any way, the indemnification provision contained in this Agreement, or
the extent to which CONSULTANT may be held responsible for
payments of damages to persons or property.
4.5 Notice of Cancellation. CONSULTANT shall provide the CITY thirty
(30) days prior written notice of cancellation of or a material change in
any ofthe required coverage.
15 5.0. GENERAL PROVISIONS
16 5.1. Entire Agreement. This Agreement together with the Appendices and/or
17 Exhibits attached hereby constitutes the entire Agreement between the
18 parties with respect to any matter referenced herein and supersedes any
19 and all other prior writings and oral negotiations. This Agreement may
20 be modified only in writing, and signed by the parties in interest at the
21 time of such modification. The terms of this Agreement shall prevail
22 over any inconsistent provision in any other contract document
23 appurtenant hereto.
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5.2. Notices. Any notices, documents, correspondence or other
communications concerning this Agreement or the work hereunder may
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be provided by personal delivery, facsimile or mail and shall be
addressed as set forth below. Such communication shall be deemed
served or delivered: a) at the time of delivery if such communication is
sent by personal delivery; b) at the time of transmission if such
communication is sent by facsimile; and c) 48 hours after deposit in the
U.S. Mail as reflected by the official U.S. postmark if such
communication is sent through regular United States mail.
IF TO CONSULTANT:
IF TO CITY:
CITY MANAGER
City of San Bernardino
300 North "D" Street
San Bernardino, CA 92418
Telephone: (909) 384-5122
Fax: (909) 384-5138
5.3. Attorneys' Fees: In the event that litigation is brought by any party in
connection with this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
recover from the opposing party all costs and expenses, including
reasonable attorney' fees, incurred by the prevailing party in the exercise
of any of its rights or remedies hereunder or the enforcement of any of
the terms, conditions or provisions hereof The costs, salary and
expenses of the City Attorney and member of his office in enforcing this
Agreement on behalf of the City shall be considered as "attorney's fees"
for the purposes of this paragraph.
5.4. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed
under the laws of the State of California without giving effect to that
Richard Hill, Principal
Mercer Health & Benefits
4695 MacArthur Court, Suite 600
Newport Beach, CA_92660
Telephone (949) 222-1300
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body of laws pertaining to conflict of laws. In the event of any legal
action to enforce this Agreement, the parties hereto agree that the sole
and exclusive venue shall be a court of competent jurisdiction located in
San Bernardino County, California.
5.5. Assignment. CONSULTANT shall not voluntarily or by operation oflaw
assign, transfer, sublet or encumber all or any part of CONSULTANT's
interest in this Agreement to an unrelated third party without CITY's
prior written consent which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed. Any attempted assignment, transfer, subletting or encumbrance
shall be void and shall constitute a breach of this Agreement and cause
for termination of this Agreement. Regardless of CITY's consent, no
subletting or assignment shall release CONSULTANT of
CONSULTANT's obligation to perform all other obligations to be
performed by CONSULTANT hereunder for the term of this Agreement.
5.6. Indemnification and Hold Harmless. CONSULTANT shall protect,
defend, indemnify and hold harmless CITY and its elected and appointed
officials, boards, commissions, officers and employees from any and all
claims, losses, demands, suits, administrative actions, penalties, liabilities
and expenses, including reasonable attorney fees, damage to property or
injuries to or death of any person or persons or damages of any nature
including, but not limited to, all civil claims or workers' compensation
claims to the extent directly arising from or in CONSULTANT's
negligent or wrongful acts or omissions in connection with the
performance under this Agreement, except to the extent caused by an
indemnified party's negligent or wrongful acts or omissions.
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Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in no event
should CONSULTANT be liable for any damages not directly or
proximately caused by CONSULTANT's negligent or wrongful acts or
omissions in connection with the Services or this Agreement for any
indirect, special, punitive, consequential or incidental damages.
5.7. Independent Contractor. CONSULTANT, at all times while performing
under this Agreement, is and shall be acting at all times as an independent
contractor and not as an agent or employee of CITY. CONSULTANT
shall secure, at his expense, and be responsible for any and all payment of
wages, benefits and taxes including, but not limited to, Income Tax,
Social Security, State Disability Insurance Compensation,
Unemployment Compensation, and other payroll deductions for
CONSULTANT and its officers, agents, and employees, and all business
licenses, if any are required, in connection with the Services to be
performed hereunder. Neither CONSULTANT nor its officers, agents
and employees shall be entitled to receive any benefits which employees
of CITY are entitled to receive and shall not be entitled to workers'
compensation insurance, unemployment compensation, medical
insurance, life insurance, paid vacations, paid holidays, pension, profit
sharing or social security on account of CONSULTANT and its officers',
agents' and employees' work for the CITY. This Agreement does not
create the relationship of agent, servant, employee partnership or joint
venture between the CITY and CONSULTANT.
5.8. Conflict of Interest Disclosure. CONSULTANT or its employee may be
subject to the provisions of the California Political Reform Act of 1974
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(the "Act"), which (1) requires such persons to disclose financial interests
that may be materially affected by the work performed under this
Agreement, and (2) prohibits such persons from making or participating
in making decisions that will have a foreseeable financial affect on such
interest.
CONSULTANT shall conform to all requirements of the Act.
Failure to do so constitutes a material breach and is grounds for
termination of the Agreement by CITY.
5.9. Responsibility for Errors. CONSULTANT shall be responsible for its
work and results under this Agreement. CONSULTANT, when
requested, shall furnish clarification and/or explanation as may be
required by the CITY's representative, regarding any services rendered
under this Agreement at no additional cost to CITY. In the event that an
error or omission attributable to CONSULTANT occurs, then
CONSULTANT shall, at no cost to CITY, provide all other
CONSULTANT professional services necessary to rectify and correct the
matter to the sole satisfaction of CITY and to participate in any meeting
required with regard to the correction. CONSULTANT will assume the
information supplied by the CITY, (or on its behalf by third parties) is
accurate and complete. CONSULTANT'S responsibilities (and
associated compensation) do not include independent verification of
required information. Problems with information quality and/or delays in
providing such information may result in a delay in the performance of
the Services or an increase in fees.
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5.10. Prohibited Employment. CONSULTANT shall not employ any current
employee of CITY to perform the work under this Agreement while this
Agreement is in effect.
5.11. Costs. Each party shall bear its own costs and fees incurred in the
preparation and negotiation of this Agreement and in the performance of
its obligations hereunder except as expressly provided herein.
5.12. No Third Party Beneficiary Rights. This Agreement is entered into for
the sole benefit of CITY and CONSULTANT and no other parties are
intended to be direct or incidental beneficiaries of this Agreement and no
third party shall have any right in, under or to this Agreement.
5.13. Headings. Paragraphs and subparagraph headings contained III this
Agreement are included solely for convenience and are not intended to
modify, explain or to be a full or accurate description of the content
thereof and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of
this Agreement.
5.14. Amendments. Only a writing executed by all of the parties hereto or their
respective successors and assigns may amend this Agreement.
5.15. Waiver. The delay or failure of either party at any time to reqUire
performance or compliance by the other of any of its obligations or
agreements shall in no way be deemed a waiver of those rights to require
such performance or compliance. No waiver of any provision of this
Agreement shall be effective unless in writing and signed by a duly
authorized representative of the party against whom enforcement of a
waiver is sought. The waiver of any right or remedy with respect to any
occurrence or event shall not be deemed a waiver of any right or remedy
"
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with respect to any other occurrence or event, nor shall any waiver
constitute a continuing waiver.
5.16. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court
of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason,
such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the
remaining terms and provisions hereof or of the offending provision in
any other circumstance, and the remaining provisions of this Agreement
shall remain in full force and effect.
5.17. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original. All counterparts
shall be construed together and shall constitute one agreement.
5.18. Corporate Authority. The persons executing this Agreement on behalf of
the parties hereto warrant that they are duly authorized to execute this
Agreement on behalf of said parties and that by doing so, the parties
hereto are formally bound to the provisions ofthis Agreement.
5.19. Disputes. Before commencing any action or proceeding with respect to
any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to any Services
that are the subject of this Agreement, the parties shall first attempt to
settle the dispute through consultation and negotiation in good faith and
in a spirit of mutual cooperation. If the dispute is not resolved within five
(5) business days, either party may elect to escalate the resolution of such
dispute by submitting the dispute to senior personnel from each party
who will promptly meet and confer in an effort to resolve the dispute. In
particular, each party will identify such senior person by notice to the
other Party, and each Party may change its senior person at any time
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thereafter by notice. Any mutually agreed upon written decisions of the
senior personnel will be final and binding on both parties, if approved by
the Mayor and Common Council of the City of San Bernardino. In the
event the senior executives are unable to resolve any dispute within thirty
(30) days after submission to them, either party may then refer such
dispute to mediation by a mutually acceptable mediator to be chosen by
both parties within forty-five (45) days after written notice by either party
demanding mediation. Neither party may unreasonably withhold, delay or
condition consent to the selection of a mediator. All communications and
discussions in furtherance of this paragraph shall be treated as
confidential settlement negotiations that are not subject to disclosure to
any third party. The costs of the mediator shall be shared equally, but
each party shall pay its own attorney's fees.
Any dispute that is not resolved within six (6) months of the date
of the initial demand for mediation by one of the parties may then be
submitted to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the
provisions of Section 5.4. Nothing in this Section 5.19 will prevent either
party from resorting to judicial proceedings at any time if interim
equitable relief from a court is necessary to prevent serious and
irreparable injury or damage to that party or to others.
3 ATTEST:
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6 Rachel Clark
City Clerk
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10 Approved as to form:
11 JAMES F. PENMAN
12 City Attorney
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14 By:
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
2 executed by and through their respective authorized officers, as of the date first above written.
CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
Municipal Corporation and
Charter City
Charles McNeely
City Manager
CONSULTANT:
By:
Richard L. Hill, Principal
SERVICES AGREEMENT
2 THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of this 1 sl day of July, 2010
3 ("Effective Date"), by and between the CITY OF SAN BERNARDlNO, a charter city ("City" or
4 "Client"), and MERCER HEALTH & BENEFITS LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
5 ("CONSULTANT" or "Mercer").
6 WIT N E SSE T H:
7 WHEREAS, CITY proposes to have CONSULTANT perform the services described
8 herein below; and
9 WHEREAS, CONSULTANT represents that it has that degree of specialized expertise
10 contemplated within California Government Code, Section 37103, and holds all necessary
11 licenses to practice and perform the services herein contemplated; and
12 WHEREAS, CITY and CONSULTANT desire to contract for professional services as
13 described in the Scope of Services, attached hereto as Exhibit "A"; and
14 WHEREAS, no official or employee of CITY has a financial interest, within the
15 provisions of California Government Code, Sections 1090-1092, in the subject matter of this
16 Agreement.
17 NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions
18 contained herein, the parties hereby agree as follows:
19 1.0. SERVICES PROVIDED BY CONSULTANT
20 1.1. Scope of Services. For the remuneration stipulated, CONSULTANT
21 shall provide the professional services described in the Scope of Services
22 attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by this reference
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("Services"). If a conflict arises between the Scope of Services docwnent
and this Professional Services Agreement (hereinafter" Agreement"), the
terms of the Scope of Services shall govern.
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1.2. Professional Practices. All Services to be provided by CONSULTANT
pursuant to this Agreement shall be provided by skilled personnel and in
a manner consistent with the standards of care, diligence and skill
ordinarily exercised by professional consultants in similar fields and
circumstances in accordance with sound professional practices.
CONSULTANT also warrants that it is familiar with all laws that may
affect its performance of this Agreement and shall advise CITY of any
changes in any laws that may affect CONSULTANT's performance of
this Agreement if the CONSULTANT has actual knowledge of such
changes.
1.3. Warranty. CONSULTANT warrants that it shall perform the Services
required by this Agreement in compliance with all applicable Federal and
California employment laws including, but not limited to, those laws
related to minimum hours and wages; occupational health and safety; fair
employment and employment practices; workers' compensation insurance
and safety in employment; and all other Federal, State and local laws and
ordinances applicable to the services required under this Agreement.
CONSULTANT shall indemnify and hold harmless CITY from and
against all claims, demands, payments, suits, actions, proceedings, and
judgments of every nature and description including reasonable attorneys'
fees and costs, or recovered against CITY to the extent arising from
CONSULTANT's violation of any such applicable law.
1.4. Non-discrimination. In performing this Agreement, CONSULTANT
shall not engage in, nor permit its officers, employees or agents to engage
in, discrimination in employment of persons because of their race,
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religion, color, national ongm, ancestry, age, mental or physical
disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual gender or sexual
orientation, except as permitted pursuant to Section 12940 of the
Government Code. Violation of this provision may result in the
imposition of penalties referred to in Labor Code, Section 1735.
1.5 Non-Exclusive Agreement. CONSULTANT acknowledges that CITY
may enter into agreements with other consultants for services similar to
the Services that are subject to this Agreement or may have its own
employees perform services similar to those Services contemplated by
this Agreement.
1.6. Delegation and Assignment. This is a personal service contract, and the
duties set forth herein shall not be delegated or assigned to any person or
entity without the prior written consent of CITY, which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld or delayed. CONSULTANT may engage a
subcontractor(s) as permitted by law and may employ other personnel to
perform services contemplated by this Agreement at CONSULTANT's
sole cost and expense.
1.7 Conflicts of Interest. During the term of this Agreement,
CONSULTANT shall at all times maintain a duty of loyalty as to the
CITY and shall not accept payment from or employment with any person
or entity which will constitute a conflict of interest with the CITY.
1.8 CITY Business Certificate. CONSULTANT shall obtain and maintain
during the term of this Agreement, a valid CITY Business Registration
Certificate pursuant to Title 5 of the City of San Bernardino Municipal
Code and any and all other licenses, permits, qualifications, insurance
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and approvals of whatever nature that are legally required of
CONSULTANT to practice its profession, skill or business.
3 2.0. COMPENSATION AND BILLING
4 2.1. Compensation. Except as provided herein, CONSULTANT
5 compensation shall be as set forth in Exhibit A.
6 2.2. Additional Services. CONSULTANT shall not receive compensation for
7 any services provided outside the scope of services specified in the
8 Exhibit A unless the CITY, prior to CONSULTANT performing the
9 additional services, approves such additional services in writing. It is
10 specifically understood that oral requests and/or approvals of such
11 additional services or additional compensation shall be barred and are
12 unenforceable.
13 2.3. Method of Billing. CONSULTANT may submit invoices to CITY for
14 approval. Said invoice shall be based on the total of all CONSULTANT's
15 services which have been performed in accordance with the terms of this
16 Agreement during the period covered by such invoice. CITY shall pay
17 CONSULTANT's invoice within thirty (30) days from the date CITY
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receives said invoice. The invoice shall describe in detail, the services
performed and the associated time for completion. Any additional
services approved and performed pursuant to this Agreement shall be
designated as "Additional Services" and shall identify the number of the
authorized change order, where applicable, on all invoices.
2.4. Performance Standard Guarantees. The CONSULTANT shall reduce
the total cost of service related fees to the project, up to a maximum of
10%, if their services are not satisfactory to the CITY as outlined in the
chart (Exhibit "B").]
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Records and Audits. Records of CONSULTANT's Services directly
relating to this Agreement shall be maintained in accordance with
generally recognized accounting principles and shall be made available to
CITY for inspection and/or audit at mutually convenient times for a
period of three (3) years from the Effective Date. Any such inspection
shall be conducted at the CITY's expense, during normal business hours
and upon reasonable prior written notice to CONSULTANT. Such audit
shall also be subject to the execution of a confidentiality agreement
reasonably satisfactory to CONSULTANT.
10 3.0. TERM AND NOTIFICATION.
11 3.1. Term. This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and
12 continue until the third anniversary of the Effective Date unless the
13 Agreement is previously terminated as provided for herein.
14 3.2 Termination. CITY or CONSULTANT may terminate the Services
15 provided under Section 1.1 of this Agreement upon thirty (30) days
16 written notice to the other party. In the event of termination,
17 CONSULTANT shall be paid the reasonable value of Services rendered
18 to the date of termination.
19 3.3 Documents. In the event of an early termination of this Agreement, all
20 documents prepared by CONSULTANT in its performance of this
21 Agreement shall be delivered to the CITY within ten (10) days of
22 delivery of termination notice to CONSULTANT, at no cost to CITY.
23 Any use of uncompleted documents without specific written
24 authorization from CONSULTANT shall be at CITY's sole risk and
25 without liability or legal expense to CONSULTANT.
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4.0. INSURANCE
2 4.1. Scope and Limits of Insurance. CONSULTANT shall obtain and
3 maintain during the term of this Agreement all of the following insurance
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coverage:
(a) Commercial general liability, including premises-operations,
products/completed operations, broad form property damage,
blanket contractual liability, independent contractors, personal
injury with a policy limit of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00)
per occurrence and Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) general
aggregate.
(b) Automobile liability for owned vehicles, hired, and non-owned
vehicles, with a policy limit of One Million Dollars
($1,000,000.00), combined single limits, per occurrence and
aggregate.
(c) Workers' compensation msurance as required by the State of
California.
4.2. Endorsements. The commercial general liability insurance policy shall
contain or be endorsed, using general policy endorsements, to contain the
following provisions:
(a) Additional insured: "The City of San Bernardino and its elected
and appointed boards, officers, and employees are additional
insured with respect to their vicarious liability arising out of
CONSULTANT'S performance of the Services hereunder."
(b) Other insurance: "Any other insurance maintained by the City of
San Bernardino shall be excess and not contributing with the
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insurance provided by this policy with respect to claims arising
solely and directly from CONSULTANT's provision of the
Services. "
4.3. Certificates of Insurance. CONSULTANT shall provide to CITY
certificates of insurance showing the insurance coverage and required
endorsements described above, prior to performing any services under
this Agreement.
4.4. Non-limiting. Nothing in this Section shall be construed as limiting in
any way, the indemnification provision contained in this Agreement, or
the extent to which CONSULTANT may be held responsible for
payments of damages to persons or property.
4.5 Notice of Cancellation. CONSULTANT shall provide the CITY thirty
(30) days prior written notice of cancellation of or a material change in
any ofthe required coverage.
15 5.0. GENERAL PROVISIONS
16 5.1. Entire Agreement. This Agreement together with the Appendices and/or
17 Exhibits attached hereby constitutes the entire Agreement between the
18 parties with respect to any matter referenced herein and supersedes any
19 and all other prior writings and oral negotiations. This Agreement may
20 be modified only in writing, and signed by the parties in interest at the
21 time of such modification. The terms of this Agreement shall prevail
22 over any inconsistent provision in any other contract document
23 appurtenant hereto.
24 5.2. Notices. Any notices, documents, correspondence or other
25 communications concerning this Agreement or the work hereunder may
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be provided by personal delivery, facsimile or mail and shall be
addressed as set forth below. Such communication shall be deemed
served or delivered: a) at the time of delivery if such communication is
sent by personal delivery; b) at the time of transmission if such
communication is sent by facsimile; and c) 48 hours after deposit in the
U.S. Mail as reflected by the official U.S. postmark if such
communication is sent through regular United States mail.
IF TO CITY:
CITY MANAGER
City of San Bernardino
300 North "D" Street
San Bernardino, CA 92418
Telephone: (909) 384-5122
Fax: (909) 384-5138
5.3. Attorneys' Fees: In the event that litigation is brought by any party in
connection with this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
recover from the opposing party all costs and expenses, including
reasonable attorney' fees, incurred by the prevailing party in the exercise
of any of its rights or remedies hereunder or the enforcement of any of
the terms, conditions or provisions hereof. The costs, salary and
expenses of the City Attorney and member of his office in enforcing this
Agreement on behalf of the City shall be considered as "attorney's fees"
for the purposes of this paragraph.
5.4. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed
under the laws of the State of California without giving effect to that
IF TO CONSULTANT:
Richard Hill, Principal
Mercer Health & Benefits
4695 MacArthur Court, Suite 600
Newport Beach, CA_92660
Telephone (949) 222-1300
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body of laws pertaining to conflict of laws. In the event of any legal
action to enforce this Agreement, the parties hereto agree that the sole
and exclusive venue shall be a court of competent jurisdiction located in
San Bernardino County, California.
5.5. Assignment. CONSULTANT shall not voluntarily or by operation oflaw
assign, transfer, sublet or encumber all or any part of CONSULTANT's
interest in this Agreement to an unrelated third party without CITY's
prior written consent which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed. Any attempted assignment, transfer, subletting or encumbrance
shall be void and shall constitute a breach of this Agreement and cause
for termination of this Agreement. Regardless of CITY's consent, no
subletting or assignment shall release CONSULTANT of
CONSULTANT's obligation to perform all other obligations to be
performed by CONSULTANT hereunder for the term ofthis Agreement.
5.6. Indemnification and Hold Harmless. CONSULTANT shall protect,
defend, indenmifY and hold harmless CITY and its elected and appointed
officials, boards, commissions, officers and employees from any and all
claims, losses, demands, suits, administrative actions, penalties, liabilities
and expenses, including reasonable attorney fees, damage to property or
injuries to or death of any person or persons or damages of any nature
including, but not limited to, all civil claims or workers' compensation
claims to the extent directly arising from or in CONSULTANT's
negligent or wrongful acts or omissions in connection with the
performance under this Agreement, except to the extent caused by an
indenmified party's negligent or wrongful acts or omissions.
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Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in no event
should CONSULTANT be liable for any damages not directly or
proximately caused by CONSULTANT's negligent or wrongful acts or
omissions in connection with the Services or this Agreement for any
indirect, special, punitive, consequential or incidental damages.
5.7. Independent Contractor. CONSULTANT, at all times while performing
under this Agreement, is and shall be acting at all times as an independent
contractor and not as an agent or employee of CITY. CONSULTANT
shall secure, at his expense, and be responsible for any and all payment of
wages, benefits and taxes including, but not limited to, Income Tax,
Social Security, State Disability Insurance Compensation,
Unemployment Compensation, and other payroll deductions for
CONSULTANT and its officers, agents, and employees, and all business
licenses, if any are required, in connection with the Services to be
performed hereunder. Neither CONSULTANT nor its officers, agents
and employees shall be entitled to receive any benefits which employees
of CITY are entitled to receive and shall not be entitled to workers'
compensation msurance, unemployment compensation, medical
insurance, life insurance, paid vacations, paid holidays, pension, profit
sharing or social security on account of CONSULTANT and its officers',
agents' and employees' work for the CITY. This Agreement does not
create the relationship of agent, servant, employee partnership or joint
venture between the CITY and CONSULTANT.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure. CONSULTANT or its employee may be
subject to the provisions of the California Political Reform Act of 1974
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5.8.
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(the "Act"), which (1) requires such persons to disclose financial interests
that may be materially affected by the work performed under this
Agreement, and (2) prohibits such persons from making or participating
in making decisions that will have a foreseeable financial affect on such
interest.
CONSULTANT shall conform to all requirements of the Act.
Failure to do so constitutes a material breach and is grounds for
termination of the Agreement by CITY.
5.9. Responsibility for Errors. CONSULTANT shall be responsible for its
work and results under this Agreement. CONSULTANT, when
requested, shall furnish clarification and/or explanation as may be
required by the CITY's representative, regarding any services rendered
under this Agreement at no additional cost to CITY. In the event that an
error or omission attributable to CONSULTANT occurs, then
CONSULTANT shall, at no cost to CITY, provide all other
CONSULTANT professional services necessary to rectify and correct the
matter to the sole satisfaction of CITY and to participate in any meeting
required with regard to the correction. CONSULTANT will assume the
information supplied by the CITY, (or on its behalf by third parties) is
accurate and complete. CONSULTANT'S responsibilities (and
associated compensation) do not include independent verification of
required information. Problems with information quality and/or delays in
providing such information may result in a delay in the performance of
the Services or an increase in fees.
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5.10. Prohibited Employment. CONSULTANT shall not employ any current
employee of CITY to perform the work under this Agreement while this
Agreement is in effect.
5.11. Costs. Each party shall bear its own costs and fees incurred in the
preparation and negotiation of this Agreement and in the performance of
its obligations hereunder except as expressly provided herein.
5.12. No Third Party Beneficiary Rights. This Agreement is entered into for
the sole benefit of CITY and CONSULTANT and no other parties are
intended to be direct or incidental beneficiaries of this Agreement and no
third party shall have any right in, under or to this Agreement.
5.13. Headings. Paragraphs and subparagraph headings contained In this
Agreement are included solely for convenience and are not intended to
modify, explain or to be a full or accurate description of the content
thereof and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of
this Agreement.
5.14. Amendments. Only a writing executed by all of the parties hereto or their
respective successors and assigns may amend this Agreement.
5.15. Waiver. The delay or failure of either party at any time to require
performance or compliance by the other of any of its obligations or
agreements shall in no way be deemed a waiver of those rights to require
such performance or compliance. No waiver of any provision of this
Agreement shall be effective unless in writing and signed by a duly
authorized representative of the party against whom enforcement of a
waiver is sought. The waiver of any right or remedy with respect to any
occurrence or event shall not be deemed a waiver of any right or remedy
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with respect to any other occurrence or event, nor shall any waiver
constitute a continuing waiver.
5.16. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court
of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason,
such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the
remaining terms and provisions hereof or of the offending provision in
any other circumstance, and the remaining provisions of this Agreement
shall remain in full force and effect.
5.17. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original. All counterparts
shall be construed together and shall constitute one agreement.
5.18. Corporate Authority. The persons executing this Agreement on behalf of
the parties hereto warrant that they are duly authorized to execute this
Agreement on behalf of said parties and that by doing so, the parties
hereto are formally bound to the provisions ofthis Agreement.
5.19. Disputes. Before commencing any action or proceeding with respect to
any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to any Services
that are the subject of this Agreement, the parties shall first attempt to
settle the dispute through consultation and negotiation in good faith and
in a spirit of mutual cooperation. If the dispute is not resolved within five
(5) business days, either party may elect to escalate the resolution of such
dispute by submitting the dispute to senior personnel from each party
who will promptly meet and confer in an effort to resolve the dispute. In
particular, each party will identify such senior person by notice to the
other Party, and each Party may change its senior person at any time
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thereafter by notice. Any mutually agreed upon written decisions of the
senior personnel will be final and binding on both parties, if approved by
the Mayor and Common Council of the City of San Bernardino. In the
event the senior executives are unable to resolve any dispute within thirty
(30) days after submission to them, either party may then refer such
dispute to mediation by a mutually acceptable mediator to be chosen by
both parties within forty-five (45) days after written notice by either party
demanding mediation. Neither party may unreasonably withhold, delay or
condition consent to the selection of a mediator. All communications and
discussions in furtherance of this paragraph shall be treated as
confidential settlement negotiations that are not subject to disclosure to
any third party. The costs of the mediator shall be shared equally, but
each party shall pay its own attorney's fees.
Any dispute that is not resolved within six (6) months of the date
of the initial demand for mediation by one of the parties may then be
submitted to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the
provisions of Section 5.4. Nothing in this Section 5.19 will prevent either
party from resorting to judicial proceedings at any time if interim
equitable relief from a court is necessary to prevent serious and
irreparable injury or damage to that party or to others.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
2 executed by and through their respective authorized officers, as of the date first above written.
3 ATTEST:
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6 Rachel Clark
City Clerk
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10 Approved as to form:
CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
Municipal Corporation and
Charter City
Charles McNeely
City Manager
CONSULTANT:
By:
Richard L. Hill, Principal
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JAMES F. PENMAN
City Attorney
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By: /yC L~ ~. ~ )(:L~~/
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1 S
Exhibit A
Health & Benefits Services Statement of Work ("SOW")
Mercer is engaged as the Client's exclusive employee benefits insurance broker/consultant and
shall perform the following services for the Client with respect to the lines of coverage listed
below. The objective of this Statement of Work ("SOW") is to confirm the scope of our work
and the compensation for this engagement. This SOW is subject to the terms and conditions
contained in our Service Agreement to which it is attached.
Mercer's ability to provide you the following services is conditioned upon Mercer's receipt of
accurate and timely information related to you and the plans and products subject to our
services. Mercer will not independently verify or authenticate information not originating from
Mercer. Client shall be solely responsible for the accuracy and completeness of such
information and other documentation furnished to Mercer. The Client understands that the
failure to provide all necessary information to an insurer, employee benefit provider and third
party vendor, whether intentional or by error, could result in the impairment or voiding of
coverage or service.
A. Core Broker I Consulting Services:
Mercer will:
. Conduct strategic planning sessions to review current performance of Client's
current employee benefits coverage and establish future objectives and strategies to
manage Client's employee benefit coverages to which this agreement applies.
. Meet with the Client's key people designated by the Client's Human Resources
Director, on at least an annual basis, to discuss strategy and open items.
. Develop a mutually agreeable renewal action plan and timeline that meets the
Client's stated objectives. Details provided in the renewal services plan developed
by Mercer and the Client.
. Keep the Client informed of significant changes and/or trends in the employee
benefits marketplace.
. Benchmark medical plan costs and employee contributions to industry, size and
regional standards on an annual basis.
. Analyze factors driving Client's plan costs if experience data is available. In
connection with such analysis, Mercer will review utilization reports to determine
possible causes of identified cost increases. Assist Client in managing risks and
costs of its employee benefits coverages.
. Establish comprehensive claims reports for identified coverages if available from
carrier: Carrier medical/prescription drug detailing paid claims (and reimbursements
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if applicable), premium/funding and enrollment summaries. Mercer will review these
reports with Client periodically and will identify and discuss trends and potential
problems.
. Provide cost projections and funding analysis (review of funding methodology
with emphasis on employer costs and the tier structure of the contribution.)
. When marketing your plans, prepare an analysis comparing current costs, plan
designs, administration costs, network discounts and network accessibility.
. With respect to the renewal process of Client's employee benefit program,
Mercer will conduct an annual review during the renewal process to include
negotiations, on Client's behalf, with current vendors/carriers, as per Client's
request.
. Upon the request of Client, Mercer will assist Client in the preparation of a RFP
for purposes of obtaining competitive quotes from the marketplace. Mercer will be
the primary point of contact during the bidding process.
. Upon request of Client, evaluate and assist in the management of voluntary
benefit products offered to Client's employees.
. Assist Client in the implementation of the benefit program by dealing with
vendor/carriers and performing contract and SPD review for purposes of determining
conformity to agreed-upon plan provisions and costs.
. Advise Client with respect to available technology platforms to support delivery
and administration of its employee benefit plans. Support implementation and
maintenance of the Mercer Administration suite of services purchased.
. Assist Client in the development of paper and/or web-based communication
strategies.
. Identify and negotiate on the Client's behalf with insurers and other benefit
program providers and keep the Client informed of significant developments.
Mercer shall be authorized for purposes of this Agreement to represent and assist
the Client in all discussions and transactions with all insurers/providers, provided that
Mercer shall not place any insurance or vendor programs on behalf of the Client
unless so authorized by the Client.
. Assist with documentation and other steps to obtain commitments for and
implement insurance policies and other services selected by the Client regarding its
employee benefits program upon the Client's instructions, it being understood that
Mercer will not independently verify or authenticate information not originating from
Mercer necessary to prepare proposals or underwriting submissions and other
documents relied upon by insurers/providers, and the Client shall be solely
responsible for the accuracy and completeness of such information and other
documents furnished to Mercer and/or insurers/providers and shall sign any
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S3nBcmard ino060S 1 0.<1<;('
application for coverage. The Client understands that the failure to provide all
necessary information to an insurer, employee benefit provider or third party vendor
whether intentional or by error, could result in the impairment or voiding of coverage
or service.
. Provide Client access to the national insurance marketplace and related services
marketplace and use Mercer's commercially reasonable efforts to place insurance
policies and other services selected by the Client regarding its employee benefit
program on behalf of the Client, if so instructed by the Client.
. Act as a liaison between the Client and insurers/ providers for the lines of
coverage and services that Mercer has placed or obtained on behalf of Client or for
which Mercer is named as the broker of record.
. Provide the Client with detailed invoices, except in the case of direct billing by
insurers or employee benefits providers.
. Mercer may utilize the services of other intermediaries to assist in the marketing
of the Client's program (including brokers in the London and other markets), when in
Mercer's professional judgment those services are necessary or appropriate. Such
intermediaries may be affiliates of Mercer or not related to Mercer. The
compensation of such intermediaries is not included in Mercer's compensation under
this Agreement and will be paid by insurers/providers out of paid premiums.
. Follow up with insurance carriers/providers for timely issuance of policies and
endorsements/contracts.
. Follow up with insurance carriers/providers with respect to the payment or return
premiums.
. Review policies, contracts and endorsements for accuracy and conformity to
specifications provided by Client and the related negotiated coverages.
. Assist the Client in connection with issues relating to interpretation of insurance
policies/contracts placed by Mercer.
. Provide information/coverage summaries for all new coverages and updates on
changes to existing coverages.
. Following any such placement, deliver confirmation of coverages as promptly as
practicable
. Provide Client access to Mercer Select - HB KnowHow self service site. Also,
provide access to topical Mercer publications, seminars, roundtables, executive
forums, and webcasts.
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. Other Services:
o Mercer will provide annual creative services through its Benefits Publishinq
Product. Communications Brochures development is included within the quoted
fees. Printing fees may be billed separately or alternatively the Client may use its
own printer for printing of the benefits brochures.
o Mercer will provide its annual series of wellness materials, called the Healthv
Habits Newsletter within the quoted fees. These newsletters will be provided in
PDF format only, but may be printed by the Client at its own expense
B. Employee Benefit Programs related to the Core Services:
. Group Life
. Group AD&D
. Long Term Disability
. Short Term Disability
. Medical Plans
. Prescription Drugs
. Dental Plans
. Vision Plan
. Flexible Benefits and FSA Accounts
C. Additional Terms:
1. Mercer does not act on behalf of any insurer or other service provider, is not bound to utilize
any particular insurer or service provider, and does not have the authority to make binding
commitments on behalf of any insurer or service provider. In addition, Mercer does not
guarantee or make any representation or warranty that coverage or service can be placed
on terms acceptable to Client. Mercer is not responsible for the solvency or ability to pay
claims of any insurance carrier or for the solvency or ability of any service provider to
provide service. Insurance carriers or service providers with which Client's other risk or
insurance coverage or other business is placed will be deemed acceptable to Client, in the
absence of contrary instructions from Client.
2. Client understands that the failure to provide, or cause to provide, complete, accurate, up-
to-date, and timely documentation and information to Mercer, an insurer, or other service
provider, whether intentional or by error, could result in impairment or voiding of coverage or
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\-'I(;[('er Service
San BcrnJrdmo060S1 OJloc:
service. Client agrees to review all policies, endorsements and program agreements
delivered to Client by Mercer and will advise Mercer of anything which Client believe is not
in accordance with the negotiated coverage and terms within thirty (30) days following
receipt.
3. Client expressly acknowledge that, with respect to the provision of the Services, Mercer is
not, nor are any of Mercer's affiliates or subcontractors, an "administrator" within the
meaning under applicable law, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of
1974, as amended ("ERISA"), nor, with respect to the provision of the Services, is Mercer or
any of Mercer's affiliates or subcontractors a "fiduciary" within the meaning under applicable
law or ERISA, unless provided otherwise herein or required by applicable law.
4. Tille V of the Gr;amm-Leach-Bliley Act and related state laws and regulations establish
limitations on the use and distribution of non-public information collected by financial
institutions from their customers and consumers. Mercer's insurance-related work qualifies
it as a financial institution under this Act. Mercer's Privacy Policy Notice is available at
www.mercer.com/transparency. At this web address Client will also find information
regarding Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries' equity interests in
certain insurers and contractual arrangements with certain insurers and wholesale brokers.
5. Client will inform Mercer at the commencement of its work under each SOW (and thereafter
in the event of any change) as to whether or not Client or any of Client's affiliates are
subject to any restrictions or obligations directly relevant to the Services as a result of or in
connection with having received any federal financial assistance in connection with any
federal law or program, including, but not limited to, the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009 and the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, including
the Troubled Assets Relief Program. In the event that Client or Client's affiliates are subject
to such restrictions or obligations, Client will also promptly describe such restrictions and
obligations to Mercer in writing in reasonable detail and make an expert (including internal
or external counsel) available to Mercer for additional clarification that Mercer reasonably
request regarding the analysis or interpretation of any such restrictions or obligations.
Client agrees that Mercer will be entitled to rely on, and have no liability for, the accuracy
and completeness of the information, analysis or interpretation that is provided to Mercer in
connection with the foregoing.
6. Limitation of Liability. The aggregate liability of CONSULTANT, its affiliates and any
officer, director or employee of CONSULTANT and its affiliates ("CONSULTANT Parties") to
the CITY, its elected and appointed officials, boards, commissions, officers, directors or
employees and any third party (including any benefit plan, its fiduciaries or any plan
sponsor) for any and all Losses arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall not exceed
five times the compensation for the Services. CONTRACTOR shall have no liability for the
acts or omissions of any third party (other than its subcontractors and affiliates).
In no event shall either party or its affiliates be liable in connection with this Agreement or
the Services for any loss of profit or incidental, consequential, indirect, or similar damages.
The provisions of this Section shall apply to the fullest extent permitted by law. Nothing in
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Mcr(c]^ ServIce Ag,fccrnem San lkrnardilJo060S 1 O.do(
this Section limiting the liability of a party shall apply to any liability for property damage or
personal injury or that has been finally determined by a court to be a breach of the
confidentiality provisions contained herein or have been caused by the fraud of such party.
For purposes of this Agreement "Loss" means damages, claims, liabilities, losses, awards,
judgments, penalties, interest, costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees,
whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, multiple claims
arising out of or based upon the same act, error or omission, or series of continuous,
interrelated or repeated acts, errors or omissions shall be considered a single Loss.
D. Period of time over which work will be performed: July 1, 2010 through June
30,2013. The contract may be extended for up to two (2) additional one (1) year terms at the
City's discretion.
E. Compensation and Fees:
Mercer will deliver the services as outlined in Exhibit A with respect to the stated coverages (the
"Fee Coverages") for annual broker / consulting fees in accordance with the schedule below,
.payable and to be invoiced as follows: Monthly Installments.
7/1/2010 - 6/30/2011 $114,301
7/1/2011 - 6/30/2012 $117,417
7/1/2012 - 6/30/2013 $120,536
Mercer will provide a suite of Administrative Services which are governed by a separate
agreement through its affiliate, Mercer Administration, and subcontractor(s). These services
are provided for a separate annual administration fee in accordance with the schedule below
and invoiced monthly as more fully described in that Agreement.
7/1/2010 - 6/30/2011 $160,699
7/1/2011 - 6/30/2012 $165,083
7/1/2012 - 6/30/2013 $169,464
Mercer will invoice these fees monthly on a consolidated billing to the City. Total annual fees
are:
7/1/2010 - 6/30/2011 $275,000
7/1/2011- 6/30/2012 $282,500
7/1/2012 - 6/30/2013 $290,000
7/1/2013 - 6/30/2014 Fees to increase no more than 3%
over prior year
15
Mercer SerVIce Agn:emcnt San Bernar,llllo060S 1 O.do\.'
7/1/2014 - 6/30/2015
Mercer will continue to instruct insurance carriers that all coverages be provided "net" of
commissions as directed by the City of San Bernardino. Such commissions do not include, and
Mercer shall be entitled to receive and retain, as to all lines of coverage, wholesale
commissions with respect to placements for the Client. Should commissions be received,
Mercer will disclose to the Client any commissions or wholesale commissions collected by
Mercer.
Method of Billinq.
Consultant may submit invoices to the City for approval. Said invoice shall be based on the
total of all consultants' services, both consulting and administrative, which have been performed
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement during the period covered by such invoice. City
shall pay Consultant's invoice within thirty (30) days from the date City receives said invoice.
The invoice shall describe the services performed and the associated time for completion. Any
additional services approved and performed pursuant to this Agreement shall be designated as
"Additional Services" and shall identify the number of the authorized change order, where
applicable, on all invoices.
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Mercer Service Agreement SanFkm~lr\i]no060S] O.d,)(
CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO (CITY)
PERFORMANCE STANDARD GUARANTEES
Health and Welfare Plans and Programs
MERCER HEALTH & BENEFITS LLC (MERCER)
EXHIBIT B
Performance Standard Performance Standard Methodology Financial
Description Amonnt at Risk
Timely response to verbal City to receive verbal response within two (2) City 2% of the cost of
mqumes business days of verbal inquiry the service
related to each
inquiry. Penalty
to be assessed at
the end of each
quarter.
Timely response to written City to receive written response within 2 City 2% of the cost of
inquiries business days of receipt of inquiry the service
related to each
inquiry. Penalty
to be assessed at
the end of each
quarter.
Projects completed by Mercer shall reduce the total cost of the service 2% of the cost of
predetermined deadline * related to the specific project or project phase (for the project or
multiple-phase projects) by two percent (2%) for each project phase (for
business day that the service is delinquent with a multiple-phase
maximum penalty not to exceed ten percent (10%) of projects) for each
the project cost City business day
that the service
If the service related to the project or project phase is related to a
delayed by the City, the number of days the project or proj ect or proj ect
project phase is delayed will be added to the original phase is delayed.
due date) Penalty to be
assessed at the
end of each
proiect.
Account management An account management satisfaction score of '3' or 2% of the total
satisfaction better on a "1-5" scoring system based on a survey cost of services
tool mutually agreed upon by the City and consultant. for the quarter
The survev tool will be completed on a quarterlv basis beinl! rated.
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