Lobbying Services RFP

Description: The Board of County Commissioners of DeSoto County Florida are requesting proposals from qualified firms and/or individuals that are interested in providing professional (1) Lobbying Services; (2) Networking of Grants with Appropriations. The awarded Firm may be tasked by written Task Order to administer any programs / grants or appropriations for a negotiated administration fee only upon Board approval. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to engage one or more qualified firm(s). Firms or individuals that do not have all the necessary disciplines within their own firm must be prepared to provide a team of professionals to assist DeSoto County with local legislative issues in Tallahassee. A final Scope of Service will be developed with the selected firm or individual. Specific duties and responsibilities shall include: (1) Lobbying Services – Representation by one or more registered lobbyist in Tallahassee during Legislative Committee Weeks as may be required and full time representation in Tallahassee during Legislative Session. Provide strategic legislative expertise and consulting services. (2) Networking of Grant and Appropriations – Must be familiar and experienced in utilizing special Appropriation and Grants together to relieve the County of potential grant matching funds, when possible. (3) Continuous review of proposed State Policies, Programs and Legislation for the purpose of identifying those that will affect the County and/or its citizens (4) Monitor State Legislative Committee Meetings, State Agency Hearings and meetings prior to and during legislative session (5) Review and analyze Legislative Policy Statements of the Florida Association of Counties and Small County Coalition as adopted. (6) Assist in the development of the County’s annual legislative priorities and strategies. (7) To lobby and testify before State government officials as necessary during committee meetings, session, special session(s). (8) Coordinate appointments and/or meetings with members of the legislature or state department heads as necessary. (9) Maintain regular contact and engagement with assigned staff and elected officials on important matters throughout the Agreement term. (10) Provide regular written reports on hot topics and legislative developments of interest to the County.