"Mr. Rivas is a dedicated government consultant with over 12 years of experience enhancing public sector operations. At Government Consulting Partners (GCP), he continues his commitment to assisting local and state government agencies"
About Ruben
Ruben Rivas-Barboza is a skilled government consultant with over 12 years of experience in public sector finance, specializing in user fee studies and state mandated cost reimbursement (SB90). As Director at Government Consulting Partners, Inc. (GCP), Ruben brings his expertise in cost-of-service analyses, hourly and indirect overhead rates, agency comparisons, and state mandated cost reimbursement (SB90) claim filing to support more than 100 agencies nationwide. His work has led to updated fee structures that generate millions in revenue, while ensuring compliance and financial sustainability. Ruben's collaborative approach views every project as a partnership, delivering high-quality outcomes that meet agency goals and benefit communities.
Client Success Stories
Ruben has collaborated with diverse agencies to address unique challenges, conducting user fee studies and SB90 claims that enhance revenue and compliance. Below are selected highlights demonstrating his expertise in action.
City of Vallejo, CA
During his time at MGT, Ruben served as a trusted advisor to the City of Vallejo, completing five user fee studies over ten years. These included a citywide study in 2016–2017, a Police Department comparison survey in 2017–2018, a Public Works user fee study in 2020, a Code Enforcement study in 2023–2024, and a Fire Department user fee study in 2024–2025. The City’s ongoing confidence highlights the consistent quality and value of his work.
County of Monterey, CA
In 2016, the County of Monterey engaged Ruben to conduct a user fee study for its Environmental Health Bureau, which was facing a financial shortfall with expenses outpacing revenues. He delivered a tailored study that enabled the County to realign revenues with actual costs. In 2022, the County reaffirmed their confidence by turning to Ruben again for an updated fee study, supporting full cost recovery.
City of Oakland, CA
While at MGT of America, Ruben served as the lead consultant for the City of Oakland’s comprehensive development fee study. He conducted an in-depth analysis of over 800 fees within the City’s building department, evaluating cost recovery and aligning them with service delivery. As part of the study, he performed a peer comparison to support informed fee recommendations. The project, involving approximately $56 million in funding, was successfully adopted and implemented in late summer 2024.
Career Highlights
2013 – 2025: Manager, MGT Consulting
- Began as a Research Assistant and advanced to Manager, specializing in user fee studies, hourly and indirect overhead rates, agency comparison analysis, and SB90 consulting for California-based agencies.
- Conducted comprehensive cost-of-service analyses for over 40 government agencies, leading to updated user fees approved by governing boards, with millions in revenue increases.
- Provided SB90 services to over 35 agencies, filing thousands of claims and securing millions in reimbursements, including audit support for compliance.
Consulting Philosophy
Areas of Expertise
- User Fee Studies
- State Mandated Cost Reimbursements (SB90)
- Hourly Rate Production
- Indirect Cost Rate Proposals
- Comparison Surveys
Education
- BA, San Jose State University, 2012