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Coconut Creek OKs larger contract with longtime lobbyist Eric’s Consultants
Summary
The City Commission approved a three-year increase in the city’s state and local lobbying contract with Eric’s Consultants Inc., raising the annual retainer from $36,000 to $48,000 after staff and commissioners described the firm’s long relationship and recent appropriations success.
The Coconut Creek City Commission on Sept. 25 approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a state and local lobbying services agreement with Eric’s Consultants Inc., increasing the annual retainer to $48,000 from the current $36,000. Government Affairs Manager Bernadette Hughes told the commission the firm has represented the city since 2010 and recommended the increase after a competitive solicitation returned a single responsive proposal.
Why it matters: The commission said the contract helps the city pursue appropriations and legislative advocacy in Tallahassee. Hughes said the consultant’s work has helped secure roughly $2 million in appropriations since 2015.
Hughes told the commission the city issued 216 electronic invitations for the work and received one responsive proposal. "This agreement is for $48,000 per year," she said, adding that the proposed fee is the firm’s first adjustment since 2010 and is below the Broward County median for comparable municipal lobbying contracts. The selection committee — which included Hughes, the finance director and the city attorney — reviewed qualifications, past performance and price and recommended approval.
Commissioners who spoke praised Eric’s Consultants’ responsiveness and connections. Commissioner John Bridal said of the consultants, "they really work their rear end off," and described them as effective at getting the city access to legislators and committee staff. Commissioner Riedell and Commissioner Welch said they had participated in lobbying activities and supported the increase, noting returned appropriations as evidence of value.
The commission voted unanimously to approve the resolution. The motion to approve was moved by Commissioner Bridal and seconded by Commissioner Brody; the roll call recorded all commissioners voting yes.
What’s next: The contract will be executed by the city manager or designee and the consultant will continue to pursue appropriations and legislative priorities at the state and local level on the city’s behalf.
