Submitted By: Jeannine Robbins
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Presentation By: Jeannine Robbins
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Department: Strategic Engagement
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve award of a three-year contract for state legislative lobbying services to The Advocacy Group at Cardenas Partners, d/b/a The Advocacy Partners for $195,000
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Operational Excellence
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
RFP released to the public March 6, 2024
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BACKGROUND:
The City of Ocala has an ongoing need for state lobbying services to develop and deploy a unique and tailored strategy that increases its consciousness and awareness among the State of Florida legislature and the executive branch, including the Governor, administrative agencies, and others as deemed necessary or desirable.
These services may include acquiring sponsors and supporters for City legislative, financial, or administrative initiatives in various areas, including, but not limited to, the protection of home rule, protection of city revenue sources, economic development, water and wastewater issues, growth management, environmental protection, transportation, housing, public safety, insurance, and disaster relief.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
On May 6, 2024, the City of Ocala issued a request for proposals for state legislative lobbying services (RFP# CMO/240646). The existing contract expires September 30, 2024.
Five responses were received, with one respondent rejected due to non-compliance. Of the remaining respondents, The Advocacy Group at Cardenas Partners, d/b/a The Advocacy Partners (TAP), was scored the highest and found to be the most responsive and responsible bidder.
TAP has provided state and legislative lobbying services to the City since 2009. They have delivered expert state legislative lobbying services and technical expertise and served as a resource to elected officials, appointed officials, and city staff. TAP has worked to secure appropriations on behalf of the City for multiple transportation and water infrastructure projects. Staff recommends the award of the contract for state legislative lobbying services to TAP.
FISCAL IMPACT:
$65,000 annually. This has been budgeted for Fiscal Year 2024-25 in account 001-012-011-511-51-34010.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These services were procured in compliance with the City’s Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
This Agreement will be reviewed and approved for form and legality by City Attorney, William E. Sexton.
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny