Oviedo council approves state lobbying work order; members seek clearer advocacy scope

The Oviedo City Council on Oct. 20 approved Resolution 4658-25 authorizing a work order to retain Grey Robinson for FY 2025–26 state lobbying services. The item directs the consultant to monitor legislation and advocate on the city’s behalf before the governor’s office, the state legislature and state agencies.

Patrick Kelly presented the staff report, listing prior state appropriations staff attributed to lobbying work and reviewing potential requests for the 2026 session, including a renewed request for a public safety training center and several pedestrian crossing projects on Lockwood Boulevard.

Kelly said the city has secured multiple appropriations while working with Grey Robinson, and summarized prior awards including funds listed for a high-water rescue vehicle, a septic/sewer study and projects tied to Oviedo Boulevard and Solari Park. He told council “$3,700,000 have been brought back to the city in state funding” since the city began working with the firm.

Several councilmembers pressed staff on the consultant’s scope language in Exhibit A of the work order. Councilmember Britton and others asked why some items use the verb “monitor” rather than “advocate” (for example, monitoring legislation about defensive home rule or local referenda). Staff answered that the consultant performs both monitoring (early notice of bills) and advocacy, and that the firm coordinates with the Florida League of Cities as needed.

Councilmembers expressed general support for retaining the firm while asking staff to clarify or consider stronger advocacy language for certain topics. Staff recommended adoption; council voted by roll call and the motion carried.