Council authorizes request for proposals for lobbying services to pursue state funding

The Lindsay City Council authorized staff to issue a request for proposals (RFP) to hire lobbying services to help the city pursue state funding and navigate state and regional regulatory processes. City staff explained that state legislation and funding opportunities regularly affect municipal departments and that a contracted lobbyist would help advocate for the city—s interests, advise on legislative matters and assist with grant and interagency issues. Staff estimated an annual cost in the neighborhood of $60,000 but said precise pricing would be determined through the RFP process. Council members supported the concept while emphasizing the need for accountability and measurable deliverables. One council member said the city should require regular reports and clear descriptions of the lobbyist—s activities and outcomes. Staff said the RFP will request scope-of-work details, reporting frequency and references to demonstrate experience with small cities. The council authorized the issuance of the RFP and instructed staff to return with recommended contract terms and performance reporting metrics for council review.