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Benton County approves two‑year state lobbying contract with Larkin Hoffman for $91,200
Summary
The Benton County Board voted to enter a two‑year agreement with law firm Larkin Hoffman for state lobbying services at a total cost of $91,200, to be paid from the commissioners’ contingency. The board discussed the firm’s references and the possibility of adding federal representation for an additional cost.
The Benton County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 3 to enter a two‑year contract with Larkin Hoffman for state lobbying services at a total cost of $91,200. Commissioners said the cost will be paid from the commission contingency account.
County staff reported Larkin Hoffman offered a discount for a two‑year commitment. Staff presented the state lobbying fee total for the two‑year agreement as $91,200 and said the firm also offered optional federal representation for an additional fee of $3,500 per month (presented as an $84,000 total for two years).
Board members discussed why the county should hire outside lobbyists. Commissioners noted that securing earmarks and federal or state grants takes considerable staff time and personal contacts in Washington, D.C., and at the state capitol. Board members cited recent success in obtaining a federal earmark of $5,000,000 for the County Road 29 extension and said outside representation can open doors to committees and legislators the county might not otherwise reach. Commissioners said they contacted reference counties that use the firm and received positive feedback.
Cost and funding - Two‑year state lobbying contract total (as presented by staff): $91,200. - Optional federal lobbying (separate fee, not added to the approved contract): $3,500 per month; staff presented a two‑year total of $84,000 if the county opted in. - Staff recommended paying the state lobbying contract from the commissioners’ contingency fund; the board approved that funding plan during the motion to enter into the agreement.
Motion and vote A commissioner moved to enter the two‑year agreement for state representation; another commissioner seconded. The board voted “Aye” and the motion carried. The minutes and the recording show the motion was approved without a roll‑call tally recorded in the public remarks.
Why it matters County leaders said hiring a lobbyist is a practical step to pursue large‑scale road funding and other capital dollars at the state and federal level, including projects discussed earlier in the meeting such as the County Road 29 extension and roundabouts. Commissioners said the firm was vetted by contacting other counties that use Larkin Hoffman and by meeting the firm’s representative.
Next steps Staff will execute the agreement and begin coordinated outreach with the firm. The board discussed but did not approve federal representation as part of the current vote; the federal option remains a separate decision.
