City commissioners on Sept. 15 asked staff to place the renewal of the city's contract with lobbyist Shoemaker Associates on a future agenda so the commission can review a proposed fee increase and evaluate options.

City staff reported Shoemaker's contract contains an automatic renewal scheduled for October and that the firm requested a monthly increase from $3,500 to $4,500. A staff member said, "Right now, it's $3,500 a month. They're proposing $4,500 a month," and told the commission BMO reviewed market rates and found the proposed fee to be in the ballpark of what other agencies pay.

The nut graf: commissioners voiced interest in further review before approving an automatic renewal. Several members suggested the need for documented evidence of results tied to the contract, and some favored exploring alternatives, including firms based in Tallahassee who might provide direct, in-person access during the legislative session.

Commissioners asked staff for a fuller report on the lobbyist's past achievements for the city and for a list of alternative firms to consider. One commissioner suggested assigning the mayor and city manager to research potential firms and return with recommendations. The commission did not vote on contract renewal at the meeting; instead, it directed staff to prepare an agenda item with performance details and options for renewal or competitive procurement.

Next steps: staff will prepare an agenda item that summarizes Shoemaker's work on behalf of the city, documents any measurable outcomes (for example, grant or funding assistance) and presents alternatives for commission consideration prior to the automatic renewal date.