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The city of Port Arthur’s longtime relationship with a Houston company tasked with project and grant management was on the line during a recent city council workshop.

And while questions were raised on whether the services were needed, ultimately councilmembers opted to retain the company and renew its contract.

Ardurra Group LLC has been a partner with the city for a number of years, including 2017 when Hurricane Harvey saw estimated damages of more than $100 million that included about 80 projects.

Ardurra handled program management and administrative services, assured the city stayed in compliance with federal regulations and more.

A representative of Ardurra said they have not just been there for disaster recovery but maintain what they consider a goodwill partnership in terms of answering the call whenever needed to benefit the city.

Their services are obviously not free. An amount calculated by Ardurra shows every dollar spent on an Ardurra contract benefits the city by $39.77.

Councilman Harold Doucet wondered if there would be cost savings, should the city take care of the grant writing on its own instead of paying the company to do the work.

But the city does not have a grant writer on staff.

City Manager Ron Burton said in the last budget council approved, his request for $150,000 to seek out grant writing capabilities and one position was approved. Between 15 to 18 applications have been received for the position, he said.

But, Burton said, the process takes time and there is no guarantee the city will not see another hurricane or disaster this year.

Councilman Thomas Kinlaw III expressed concern Port Arthur — a city of almost 60,000 — does not have a grant writer on staff.

Once the recent workshop ended, the council took on three action items involving Ardurra.

• Contract with Ardurra Group for project management and reporting services associated with the Texas General Land Office 2019 HUD Infrastructure Competition Project, replacing brick manholes in various parts of the city. Funding for the services is 100 percent reimbursable under the grant and not to exceed $50,000.
• Contract with Ardurra Group LLC for the project management and reporting services associated with the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration Safe Streets for All Grants.

Funding for the services is 100 percent reimbursable under the grant and not to exceed $350,000.

• Contract renewal with Ardurra for assistance with the American Rescue Plan Act Program/ Grant Management Services.

The contract is for a not-to-exceed $180,000 per annum, and funds are available in the American Rescue Plan Fund Account.

This is a fourth-year (third renewal) contract.