Federal_Lobbyist_Services.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP 25-051

FEDERAL LOBBYIST SERVICES

August 27, 2025

OWNER:

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SANTA ROSA COUNTY, FLORIDA

BOBBY BURKETT – DISTRICT I

KERRY SMITH – DISTRICT II

RHETT ROWELL – DISTRICT III

RAY EDDINGTON – DISTRICT IV

COLTEN WRIGHT – DISTRICT V

RFP 25-051

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FEDERAL LOBBYIST SERVICES

Solicitation advertised utilizing Santa Rosa County Procurement & Purchasing Ordinance 2023-06 adopted June 19, 2023

I. NOTICE

II. STANDARD RFP INSTRUCTIONS, SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS, AND GENERAL

REQUIREMENTS

III. STANDARD INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

IV. SCOPE OF WORK

V. Pricing Proposal Table

VI. Evaluation Process Instructions

VII. EVALUATION CRITERIA

VIII. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

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1. NOTICE

1.1. Summary

MEMORANDUM

TO: Company Addressed DATE: Wednesday, August 27, 2025

FROM: Santa Rosa County Procurement Office

SUBJECT: RFP 25-051 Federal Lobbyist Services

Notice is hereby given that the Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners is seeking Federal Lobbyist

Services.

Please submit all proposals through the procurement portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santarosafl by 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at which time will be publicly opened.

Specifications may be secured through the Santa Rosa County Procurement Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santarosafl Questions concerning this request should be submitted through the procurement portal by 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners encourages all segments of the business community to participate in its procurement opportunities, including small businesses, minority/women owned businesses, and disadvantaged business enterprises. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sex, or age in the administration of contracts.

The Board of County Commissioners reserves the right to waive irregularities in bids, to reject any or all bids for sound documented reasons, and to award the bid that it determines to be in the best interest of Santa Rosa

County.

By order of the Board of County Commissioners of Santa Rosa County, Florida.

1.2. Timeline

Release Project Date August 27, 2025

Question Submission Deadline September 3, 2025, 12:00pm https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santarosafl https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santarosafl

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Proposal Submission Deadline September 10, 2025, 10:00am

Public Opening of Proposals September 10, 2025, 10:00am https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N

2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/

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2. STANDARD RFP INSTRUCTIONS, SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS, AND GENERAL

REQUIREMENTS

2.1. PRE-PROPOSAL ACTIVITY

Except as provided in this section, respondents are prohibited from contacting or lobbying the County, County

Administrator, Commissioners, and County staff, or any other person authorized on behalf of the County related or involved with the solicitation. All inquiries on the scope of work, specifications, additional requirements, attachments, terms and general conditions or instructions, or any issue must be submitted through the Procurement

Portal.

All questions or inquiries must be received by 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Any addenda or other modification to the bid documents will be issued through the Procurement Portal, five (5) days prior to the date and time of bid closing.

Such addenda or modification shall be part of the bid documents and shall be binding upon each respondent. Each respondent is required to acknowledge receipt of all addenda when submitting their bid. No respondent may rely upon any verbal modification or interpretation.

2.2. PREPARATION OF RFP

The respondent shall submit proposals in accordance with the public notice.

Any proposal which contains any omissions, erasures, alterations, additions, irregularities of any kind, or items not called for which shall in any manner fail to conform to the conditions of public notice may be rejected.

A proposal submitted by a partnership shall be executed in the partnership name and signed by a partner (whose title must appear under the signature). The official address of the partnership shall be shown below the signature.

A proposal submitted by a limited liability company shall be executed in the name of the firm by a member and accompanied by evidence of authority to sign. The state of formation of the firm and the official address of the firm must be shown below the signature.

A proposal submitted by an individual shall show the respondent’s name and official address.

A proposal submitted by a joint venture shall be executed by each joint venture in the manner indicated on the bid form. The official address of the joint venture must be shown below the signature.

If the respondent is an out-of-state corporation, the bid shall contain evidence of respondent’s authority and qualification to do business as an out-of-state corporation in the State of Florida. A state contractor license # for the https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjU1MDI0MjMtNWM3ZC00N2MwLWI0YmEtOThjYmJjZDk0MTdm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22572b768c-0396-4e83-8303-4e10d50fcca1%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2238e6f17d-8f80-4ed4-9b77-3ab2f2bb660f%22%7d

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State of Florida shall also be included on the bid form. Respondent shall be licensed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 489, Florida Statutes.

The proposal shall be based upon the completion of the Work according to the drawings and specifications, together with all addenda thereto.

2.3. SUBMITTAL OF PROPOSAL

Proposals shall be submitted no later than 10:00 am Central Standard Time (CST) on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. It is the respondent’s responsibility to assure that its proposal is submitted by the proper time and date through the Procurement Portal.

2.4. INTEGRITY OF PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS

Respondents shall use the original documents provided by the Santa Rosa County Procurement Office and enter information only in the spaces where a response is requested. Respondents may use an attachment to the documents if sufficient space is not available. Any modifications or alterations to the original documents by the respondent, whether intentional or otherwise, will constitute grounds for rejection of a bid. Any such modification or alteration that a respondent wishes to propose must be clearly stated in the respondent’s response in the form of an addendum to the original bid documents.

2.5. WITHDRAWAL OF SUBMITTALS

Any Respondent may withdraw its Submittal, through the Procurement Portal, at any time prior to the scheduled time for opening Submittals.

2.6. INTERPRETATION

No oral interpretation will be made to any Respondent as to the meaning of the drawings or specifications. Every interpretation made to a Respondent will be in the form of an Addendum to the specifications. Addenda will be furnished to each Respondent, through the Procurement Portal, but it shall be the Respondent’s responsibility to make inquiry as to Addenda issued. All such addenda shall become part of the contract and all Responders shall be bound by such Addenda whether received by the Responders.

2.7. PROPOSALS TO REMAIN SUBJECT TO ACCEPTANCE

All responses will remain subject to acceptance or rejection by Santa Rosa County for sixty (60) calendar days after the day of the response opening. The County may, in its sole discretion, release any response and return the response security prior to the end of this period.

2.8. CONDITIONAL & INCOMPLETE PROPOSALS

Santa Rosa County specifically reserves the right to reject any conditional response.

2.9. ADDITION/DELETION OF ITEM

The County reserves the right to add or delete any item from this response or resulting contract when deemed to be in the County’s best interest.

2.10. SPECIFICATION EXCEPTIONS

Specifications are based on the most current literature available. Respondent shall clearly list any change in the manufacturer’s specifications which conflict with the proposal specifications. Respondent must also explain any deviation from the proposal specification in writing, as a foot note on the applicable bid page and enclose a copy of the manufacturer’s specifications data detailing the changed item(s) with their bid. Failure of the respondent to comply with these provisions will result in respondents being held responsible for all costs required to bring the equipment in compliance with bid specifications.

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2.11. FAMILIARITY WITH LAWS

All applicable Federal and State laws, County and municipal ordinances, orders, rules, and regulations of all authorities having jurisdiction over the project shall apply to the bid throughout, and they will be deemed to be included in the contract the same as though they were written in full therein.

2.12. EXAMINATION OF DOCUMENTS AND SITE

Before submitting their proposal, the Respondent shall familiarize themselves with the nature and extent of the work and any local conditions that may in any manner affect the work to be done and the equipment, materials, and labor required. Respondent shall also examine all drawings, specifications, addenda, and other Contract Documents to be thoroughly informed regarding any and all conditions and requirements that may in any manner affect the work to be performed under the contract.

2.13. RIGHT TO REJECT PROPOSAL

The Owner reserves the right to waive informalities in bids to reject any or all proposals with or without cause and accept the proposal that in its judgment is in the best interest of the County.

2.14. DISQUALIFICATION OF RESPONDENTS

Any of the following reasons may be considered as sufficient for the disqualification of a respondent and the rejection of its proposal:

• Submission of more than one proposal for the same work from an individual, firm or corporation under the same or different name. Evidence that the respondent has a financial interest in the firm of another respondent for the same work.

• Evidence of collusion among respondents. Participants in such collusion will receive no recognition as respondents for any future work of the County until such participant has been reinstated as a qualified respondent.

• Uncompleted work which in the judgment of the County might hinder or prevent the prompt completion of additional work if awarded.

• Failure to pay or satisfactorily settle all bills due for labor and material on former contracts in force at the time of advertisement of proposals. Default under previous contract.

• Listing of the respondent by any Local, State or Federal Government on its barred/suspended vendor list.

2.15. DISCRIMINATION

An entity or affiliate who has been placed on the discriminatory vendor list may not submit a response on a contract to provide goods or services to a public entity, may not submit a response on a contract with a public entity for the construction or repair of a public building or public work, may not submit responses on leases of real property to a public entity, may not award or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under contract with any public entity, and may not transact business with any public entity.

2.16. REVIEW OF PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS

Per Florida Statute 119.071 (1) 2, sealed bids, proposals, or replies received by the County pursuant to a competitive solicitation are exempt from public disclosure until such time as the County provides notice of an intended decision or until 30 days after opening the responses, proposals, or final replies, whichever is earlier.

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2.17. COMPLIANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTE 119.0701

The Respondent shall comply with all the provisions of section 119.0701, Florida Statutes relating to the public records which requires, among other things, that the Respondent: (a) Keep and maintain public records; (b) Provide the public with access to public records on the same terms and conditions that the public agency would provide the records; (c) ensure that public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements are not disclosed except as authorized by law; and (d) Meet all requirements for retaining public records and transfer, at no cost, to the public agency all public records in possession of the respondent upon termination of the contract.

IF THE CONTRACTOR HAS QUESTIONS REGARDING THE APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 119,

FLORIDA STATUTES, TO THE CONTRACTOR’S DUTY TO PROVIDE PUBLIC RECORDS RELATING

TO THIS CONTRACT, CONTACT THE CUSTODIAN OF PUBLIC RECORDS AT (850) 983-1857,

susant@santarosa.fl.gov; 6495 CAROLINE STREET, SUITE M, MILTON, FLORIDA 32570.

2.18. SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE

The County may, at any time, without cause, order Respondent in writing to suspend, delay or interrupt the work in whole or in part for such period as the County may determine, or to terminate all or a portion of the Contract for the

County’s convenience. Upon such termination, the Contract Price earned to the date of termination shall be paid to

Respondent, but Respondent waives any claim for damages, including loss of profits arising out of or related to the early termination. Those Contract provisions which by their nature survive final acceptance shall remain in full force and effect. If the County orders a suspension, the Contract price and Contract time may be adjusted for increases in the cost and time caused by suspension, delay, or interruption. No adjustment shall be made to the extent that performance is, was or would have been so suspended, delayed or interrupted by reason for which Respondent is responsible; or that an equitable adjustment is made or denied under another provision of this Contract.

2.19. FAILURE OF PERFORMANCE/DELIVERY

In case of default by the Vendor, the County after due notice (oral or written) may procure the necessary supplies or services from other sources and hold the Vendor responsible for difference in cost incurred. Continuous instances of default shall result in cancellation of the award and removal of the Vendor from the response list for duration of one

(1) year, at the option of the County.

2.20. AUDIT

If requested, respondent shall permit the County or an authorized, independent audit agency to inspect all data and records of respondent relating to its performance and its subcontracts under this bid from the date of the award through three (3) years after the expiration of contract.

2.21. PUBLIC ENTITY CRIME INFORMATION

Pursuant to Florida Statute 287.133, a respondent may not be awarded or perform work as a contractor, supplier, subcontractor, or consultant under a contract with any public entity; and may not transact business with any public entity more than the threshold amount provided in s. 287.017 for CATEGORY TWO for a period of 36 months following the date of being placed on the convicted vendor list.

Note: For respondent’s convenience, this certification form is enclosed and is made a part of the bid package.

mailto:WANDAP@SANTAROSA.FL.GOV

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2.22. INVESTIGATION OF RESPONDENT

The County may make such investigations, as it deems necessary to determine the stability of the respondent to perform the work and that there is no conflict of interest as it relates to the project. The respondent shall furnish to the Owner any additional information and financial data for this purpose as the County may request.

2.23. FORM OF AGREEMENT

The Contract form shall be provided by the Procurement Office. The successful contractor shall, within 10 days after receipt of the Notice of Award and the contract forms or documents, sign and deliver to the County Procurement

Office all required contract documents. The awarded contractor shall also deliver the policies of insurance or insurance certificate as required. All insurance documents shall be approved by Santa Rosa County Procurement

Office before the successful contractor may proceed with the work.

3. STANDARD INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Vendor/Contractor agrees to carry and keep in force for the entire term of the contract with Santa Rosa County, and any extensions thereof, the following minimum levels of insurance coverage for any claims that may result from or relate to the services or products provided by Vendor/Contractor.

Workers’ Compensation: The contractor shall provide a workers' compensation insurance policy that meets the statutory requirements of the Florida Workers' Compensation Law. The policy shall also include employer's liability coverage with a minimum limit of $100,000 per accident, $500,000 per policy for occupational disease, and $100,000 per employee for occupational disease. The contractor shall furnish a certificate of insurance as evidence of such coverage before commencing work under this contract.

Commercial General Liability: The business shall maintain a commercial general liability insurance policy with minimum limits of $1,000,000 for each occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate, covering bodily injury and property damage. The policy shall include the following coverages:

a. Premises/operations liability

b. Products/completed operations liability

c. Contractual liability

d. Liability for independent contractors

Business Auto Liability: The Contractor shall maintain a minimum amount of $500,000 for each occurrence of bodily injury and property damage liability. This amount may be provided by a Combined Single Limit policy or a Split limit policy with at least $500,000 per person, $500,000 per accident and $500,000 for property damage.

This policy shall cover the following types of vehicles:

a. Vehicles owned by the Contractor or its employees

b. Vehicles rented or leased by the Contractor for the performance of the contract

c. Vehicles operated by the Contractor or its employees but not owned, rented, or leased by them

Additionally, the Contractor shall obtain a Special endorsement to extend the coverage to any contractual liability arising from the contract.

Before signing any contract or agreement, the contractor must provide certificates of insurance that meet the following criteria:

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a. Santa Rosa County must be included as an additional insured on all coverages related to the contractor's work.

b. Santa Rosa County must receive a written notice at least 30 days before any cancellation or change of any insurance policy.

c. The contractor is responsible for ensuring that all subcontractors comply with the same insurance requirements.

d. These are the minimum requirements that may be modified depending on the nature and risk of the work.

If there are any exceptional circumstances, the county administrator or his designee has the authority to adjust these requirements.

3.1. Additional Insurance Required

The following outlines additional insurance coverage requirements, along with their minimum limits, for the given project. This coverage is in addition to the standard requirement.

General Requirements:

a. Carrier rating shall be A.M. best rating of B++V or better.

b. Notice of Cancellation, Non-Renewal, or material change in coverage shall be provided to Santa

Rosa County at least 30 days prior to action.

c. Santa Rosa County shall be named as additional insured on all policies except Workers'

Compensation.

3.2. Professional Liability

Professional Liability $1,000,000 Per Occurrence

4. SCOPE OF WORK

4.1. Federal Lobbyist Services

Scope of Work for Federal Lobbyist Services

1. Summary

Santa Rosa County, Florida, is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide Federal Lobbyist Services. The selected firm will be responsible for advocacy in Washington, D.C. on behalf of Santa Rosa County to assist with issues that affect local, state, and federal policies. This scope of work outlines the expectations, duties, and performance measures required of the selected lobbyist firm. The ultimate goal is to ensure that Santa Rosa

County's interests are effectively represented at the federal level and to facilitate communication between the county and federal lawmakers.

2. Detailed Specifications

The following detailed specifications outline the necessary qualifications, experience, and services required from the lobbyist firm:

A. Qualifications:

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1. Must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience in federal lobbying.

2. Must have established relationships with key congressional representatives, relevant government agencies, and decision-makers.

3. The firm must have a proven track record of successfully influencing legislation or policy decisions that align with local government interests.

4. Must comply with all applicable federal lobbying laws, rules, and regulations as outlined in the

Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 and the relevant amendments.

B. Scope of Services:

1. Provide expert advice and strategic counsel to Santa Rosa County leadership on legislative issues relevant to the county.

2. Conduct thorough research and analysis on proposed federal legislation and its potential impact on

Santa Rosa County.

3. Develop and implement a comprehensive lobbying strategy that addresses the county's specific needs and priorities.

4. Arrange and attend meetings with federal lawmakers, their staff, and relevant agency officials on behalf of Santa Rosa County.

5. Advocate for funding opportunities, grants, and federal allocations that will benefit Santa Rosa County.

6. Monitor and report on legislative and regulatory developments that may affect Santa Rosa County's interests.

7. Engage in coalition building with other local governments, nonprofits, and advocacy groups to amplify

Santa Rosa County’s voice.

8. Provide regular updates to Santa Rosa County leadership and designated personnel on lobbying activities and outcomes.

9. Assist in the preparation of position papers, briefings, and other materials to communicate Santa Rosa

County’s positions effectively.

3. Service Requirements

The selected lobbying firm will be expected to deliver the following services:

A. Monthly Reporting:The firm must provide a written report detailing lobbying activities, legislative developments, and any significant interactions with federal officials over the previous month.

B. Annual Strategy Session:The firm will be required to conduct an annual strategy session with Santa Rosa

County leadership to review lobbying goals, adjust priorities, and refine strategies.

C. Immediate Notification:The lobbyist firm must notify Santa Rosa County immediately of any urgent legislative activity or developments that demand prompt action or response.

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D. Training and Workshops:Provide training sessions or workshops for county officials on legislative processes, lobbying best practices, and how to effectively engage with federal representatives.

4. Delivery Requirements

The successful firm must adhere to the following delivery requirements:

A. Contract Duration:The initial term of the contract will be for one (1) year, with an option to extend for additional terms based on satisfactory performance and continued mutual agreement.

B. Timeline for Services:All services outlined in this scope of work are to be initiated within 30 days following contract execution, with a structured timeline established for achieving specific goals and objectives.

C. Invoices:Monthly invoices detailing the services rendered, hours worked, and any other expenses must be submitted to Santa Rosa County for payment as per the contract terms.

D. Communication:The firm is expected to maintain regular communication with designated Santa Rosa

County staff, including the County Administrator and/or appointed liaison, ensuring alignment with county goals and immediate responsiveness to emerging challenges.

5. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

A. Experience and qualifications in federal lobbying specifically for local governments.

B. Understanding of the unique needs and issues faced by Santa Rosa County.

C. Proposed strategies and methods for achieving effective lobbying outcomes.

D. Cost-effectiveness and transparency in pricing structures.

E. Feedback from references and previous clients.

By submitting a proposal, the lobbying firm acknowledges that they understand the expectations and requirements outlined in this Scope of Work. Santa Rosa County reserves the right to negotiate terms, seek clarification, and make modifications to proposals as deemed necessary to ensure that the most suitable firm is selected to represent the interests of Santa Rosa County at the federal level.

5. Pricing Proposal Table

FEDERAL LOBBYIST SERVICES

Contract Year Description Unit of Measure Unit Cost

Year 1 Initial One-Year Contract Lump Sum

Year 2 (Option) First Optional Renewal Lump Sum

Year 3 (Option) Second Optional Renewal Lump Sum

Year 4 (Option) Third Optional Renewal Lump Sum

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Contract Year Description Unit of Measure Unit Cost

Year 5 (Option) Fourth Optional Renewal Lump Sum

6. Evaluation Process Instructions

6.1. EVALUATION PROCESS

Santa Rosa County reserves the right to waive any informalities or reject any and all Responses, in whole or part, to utilize any applicable state contracts in lieu of or in addition to this Response and to accept the Response that in its judgment will best serve the interest of the County. The County reserves the right to award the bid to the respondent submitting a responsive bid with a resulting negotiated agreement which is most advantageous and in the best interest of the County, and to reject any and all bids or to waive any irregularity or technicality in bids received. Santa Rosa County shall be the sole judge of the bid and the resulting negotiated agreement that is in its best interest and its decision shall be final.

6.2. STAFF EVALUATION AND BOARD PRESENTATIONS

Staff will evaluate the submissions based on the identified criteria and provide the scoring information to the Board for consideration. Formal presentations will be scheduled for the Board of County Commissioners.

Santa Rosa County reserves its right to reject any or all Responses, including without limitation nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced, or conditional Bids. The County further reserves the right to reject the Response of any

Responder whom it finds after reasonable inquiry and evaluation to not be responsible. In evaluating Responses, the County may consider the qualifications of Responders and may consider the qualifications and experience of

Subcontractors, Suppliers, and other individuals or entities proposed for those portions of the Work for which the identity of Subcontractors, Suppliers, and other individuals or entities must be submitted with the Response.

7. EVALUATION CRITERIA

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Lobbyist's Qualifications and Experience

Lobbyist's knowledge, experience and credentials in Federal Lobbyist Services as outlined in the Scope of Services, including but not be limited, demonstrated knowledge of legislative affairs, interpretations of legal implications and legislative policy statements, major successes for clients, experience in identifying and securing various sources of federal funding, etc.

Points Based 25 (25% of Total)

2. Lobbyist's understanding of the unique needs and issues faced by Santa Rosa County Points Based 20

(20% of Total)

3. Proposed strategies and methods for achieving effective lobbying outcomes Points Based 20

(20% of Total)

4. Cost-effectiveness and transparency in pricing structures Points Based 20

(20% of Total)

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5. Feedback from references and previous clients Points Based 15

(15% of Total)

8. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

8.1. Proposal

8.1.1. Executive Summary*

Provide a brief overview of your firm, your understanding of the County’s objectives, and a summary of how your services will meet or exceed expectations.

*Response required

8.1.2. Firm Overview*

• Detail years of experience in federal lobbying

• Highlight specific wins or successful projects on behalf of local governments

• Include biographies of key personnel and their relevant lobbying experience

• List relevant certifications, registrations, or accreditations

*Response required

8.1.3. Understanding of Santa Rosa County’s Unique Needs*

• Describe your knowledge of the County’s demographics, economy, and public policy priorities

• Highlight familiarity with past or current federal issues affecting the County

• Identify challenges and opportunities that are unique to Santa Rosa County

*Response required

8.1.4. Proposed Strategies and Methods*

• Outline your overall approach to federal lobbying

• Describe how you'll build and maintain relationships with federal agencies, legislators, and committees

• Include a timeline or phased plan for key activities

• Address communication and reporting protocols with County officials

*Response required

8.1.5. Cost-Effectiveness and Pricing Transparency*

• Provide a detailed pricing structure (e.g., flat fees, hourly rates, retainer model)

• Explain what is included in your fees and any potential additional costs

• Highlight any cost-saving measures or efficiencies your firm provides

• Include a sample monthly or quarterly invoice/report, if available

*Response required

8.1.6. References and Client Feedback*

• Provide at least 3 references from past or current clients, preferably local governments

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• Include testimonials, case studies, or performance reviews if available

• Highlight repeat engagements or long-term partnerships

*Response required

8.1.7. Sworn Statement Public Entity Crimes*

Please download the below documents, complete, and upload.

• Sworn_Statement_Public_Enti...

*Response required

8.1.8. Scrutinized Contractors Certificate*

Please download the below documents, complete, and upload.

• Scrutinized_contractors_cer...

*Response required

8.1.9. Conflict of Interest Form*

Please download the below documents, complete, and upload.

• Conflict_of_Interest.pdf

*Response required

8.1.10. Non-Collusion*

Respondent confirms that it has entered into no agreement to commit a fraudulent, deceitful, unlawful, or wrongful act, or any act which may result in an unfair advantage over other respondents. See Florida Statute

838.22.

☐ Please confirm

*Response required

8.1.11. Please provide proof of registration with State of Florida Division of Corporations* *Response required

8.1.12. Please provide copy of current insurance declaration page. * *Response required

8.1.13. Please provide your UEI number:*

*Response required

8.1.14. Please confirm that you have read and understand the information contained herein. * ☐ Please confirm

*Response required 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