Item 10 - Agreements with Accent on Languages, Inc., Mente, Inc. dba Cesar Vargas and Assoc.

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While all of our Interpreters are qualified Community Interpreters, if the Interpretation requested necessitates the use of a Certified Interpreter (a higher level of expertise and proficiency in the Industry), the Rates are: Half Day (3 hours) or Full Day (6 hours) at $450 (four hundred fifty dollars) and $900 (nine hundred dollars), respectively. The Interpretation Services above are for both in -person and/or video remote interpretation. CERTIFICATIONS See ATTACHMENTS. REFERENCES See ATTACHMENT B. INNOVATIVE PRODUCT / SERVICE SUGGESTIONS In addition to the services contained in this Proposal, and integrally related to the BACKGROUND Section above, Dr. Cesar Vargas is able and willing to provide related training to City staff in Translation & Interpretation, in order to minimize the use of consultants and better prepare the staff to provide these services, saving the City money in the future, and bringing a more qualified workforce with a heightened sense of belonging and pride of service. This has been a topic of conversation at previous City Council meetings to reduce future costs to the City. Additionally, a great way to significantly enhance our community's inclusivity and accessibility would be through the development of a Language Access Plan (LAP) for the City of Santa Ana. A Language Access Plan goes beyond this Proposal; it is a comprehensive framework designed to ensure that individuals who speak languages other than English can access public services and participate fully in community life. It encompasses a range of strategies, including the translation of written materials, provision of interpretation services, and, as stated in the first paragraph above, training for staff on cultural competency. The goal is to bridge the communication gap between service providers and the diverse communities they serve. Implementing a LAP in Santa Ana can bring numerous benefits. It not only demonstrates our commitment to equity and inclusion but also significantly improves the quality of life for residents with limited English proficiency. By ensuring that vital information and services are accessible in the most prevalent languages spoken in our community, such as Spanish and Vietnamese, we can foster a more engaged and informed citizenry. Moreover, a well -executed LAP can lead to increased community involvement. When residents feel heard and understood, they're more likely to participate in public meetings, access city services, and contribute to community dialogues. This active engagement is crucial for building a vibrant, cohesive community. 6of7