The City Council of Lake City, Florida, convened on March 3, 2025, to evaluate proposals for state lobbying services as part of their ongoing efforts to enhance governmental advocacy. The meeting began with the presentation of RFP 0072025, which attracted seven proposals. An evaluation committee shortlisted these to three top firms, which were invited to present their qualifications to the council.

The first presentation was delivered by representatives from Avacy Partners, a Tallahassee-based lobbying firm with two decades of experience. Steve Shale, a senior partner at the firm, emphasized the expertise of their team, noting that all members are seasoned professionals with extensive backgrounds in politics and lobbying. He highlighted the firm's bipartisan approach, which he argued is crucial for effective communication with both Republican and Democratic members of the Florida legislature.

Shale detailed the firm's diverse client base, which includes major corporations like Walt Disney World and AT&T, as well as local governments such as the city of Ocala and Port Tampa Bay. He underscored the importance of understanding the legislative process and the pressures faced by elected officials, asserting that this insight enhances their lobbying effectiveness.

Following the presentations, the council members were set to score each firm based on their performance, with the lowest total score determining the selected lobbying firm. This systematic approach aims to ensure that the city secures the most qualified representation in state matters.

The meeting concluded with anticipation for the subsequent presentations from the other shortlisted firms, as the council prepares to make a decision that could significantly impact Lake City's legislative advocacy efforts.