RFQ_Draft.docx

RFQ Draft: Lobbying Firm Services

SUMMARY

The City of Jackson (the “City”) is seeking a qualified, experienced, professional lobbying firm to provide representation and advocacy services at the State/Federal level for governmental affairs. Respondents must have significant experience along with a proven track record of securing federal funding, expert grant writing, and existing relationships with Federal and State Representatives, staff members and related agencies to advance the City’s legislative priorities, secure funding opportunities, and provide guidance and updates on State/Federal policy matters that impact the City operations.

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

The selected Respondent will be expected to execute the following priorities:

· Represent and advocate on behalf of the City with Congress, and Federal/State Administrations regarding but not limited to, Streets, Urban Development, Economic, Environmental, and Transportation to pursue funding opportunities including grants and appropriations.

· Engage with elected officials, agency representatives, and stakeholders to advocate for the City’s priorities.

· Coordinate advocacy efforts with relevant associations and coalitions.

· Organize meetings and events with key decision-makers on behalf of the City.

· Monitor, analyze and report on legislative and regulatory activities that impact the City.

· Provide regular updates, reports, and recommendations to City Leadership.

· Assist in drafting legislative proposals, position papers, grant submissions, and testimony to develop and implement strategies to advance the City’s legislative agenda.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Interested firms must demonstrate, including verification of expertise and experience with municipalities with a similar scope of services in the following areas:

· Knowledge of municipal government operations, policies, and funding mechanisms

· Ability to initiate and develop strategic guidance and policy analysis to align with the City’s objectives

· Delivering impact through strong relationships with legislators, agency officials, and key decision-makers

· Experience in securing funding and legislative outcomes for public sector clients through proficiency in submitting quality and competitive grant applications

· Maintain high ethical standards and compliance in disclosure of lobbying activities and potential conflicts of interest

· Evidence of demonstrating successful legislative advocacy to local governments for at least the past 5 years

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Letter of Interest – A brief cover letter summarizing the firm’s interest and qualifications

2. Firm Overview – A description of the firm, including history, key personnel, areas of expertise, and financial capacity to perform these services

3. Experience & References – Examples of past successes in lobbying for municipal or public sector clients, including complete contact information for references

4. Proposed Approach – A summary of how the firm plans to represent and advocate for the City

5. Key Personnel – Resumes of individuals who will be assigned to the City’s account

6. Fee Structure – A proposed all-inclusive compensation structure for services including retainer fees, overhead, and any additional costs in accordance with the requirements set forth in this RFP

7. Compliance Statement – Affirmation of compliance with all applicable laws and disclosure requirements

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

· Relevant experience and demonstrated success in lobbying

· Strength of relationships with policymakers and agencies

· Understanding of the City’s needs and proposed approach

· Qualifications and experience of key personnel

· Cost and value of services

GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

· The City reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to waive informalities.

· Submissions of qualifications does not guarantee an interview or contract award.

· The City may request additional information, clarifications, or conduct interviews as part of the selection process.

· The selected firm must enter into a formal agreement with the City.

The City of Jackson looks forward to receiving your qualifications and appreciates your interest in partnering with us to advance our legislative and funding priorities.