Keenan and HMB’s lobbyists now on the same page

Capitol Weekly, Aug 8:

Keenan confirmed Kinney’s version of his deal with California Strategies. He contracted for two and a half months of consulting services at $20,000 a month, for a total payment of $50,000. The deal expired on July 1. Lobbyist filings on the Secretary of State’s website disclose no lobbying payments from Keenan to California Strategies.

"It’s in the city’s interest to get AB 1991 passed," Keenan said. "It’s also in my interests. We have a community of interest. The way Jason characterized it is exactly right." When asked why he needed consulting services, Keenan said, "I’m just really not clear on how thing works up there. I felt I needed guidance."

HMB Review, Aug 8, 12:54 PM PDT

In interviews on Wednesday and Thursday, Keenan did not distinguish between the city’s lobbying contract and his consulting contract with California Strategies, saying that he and the city "collectively" hired the firm.

According to Keenan, he had no control over the firm’s activities. He said he would occasionally receive feedback on the legislative proceedings in Sacramento.