Request for Proposals - Sacramento County Department of Airports (SCDA) Federal Lobbying Services

The Sacramento County Department of Airports (SCDA) is seeking proposals for Federal Lobbying Services through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The solicitation aims to secure a qualified federal lobbyist firm to represent the department's interests across four airports, including Sacramento International Airport (SMF). The selected contractor will be responsible for comprehensive federal advocacy services, including monitoring legislative and regulatory policies, identifying funding opportunities, developing strategic communication plans, and engaging directly with congressional and executive branch officials. Proposals will be evaluated across five key categories: completeness of response (pass/fail), qualifications and experience (50 points), primary staff qualifications (30 points), cost proposal (10 points), and references (10 points). The RFP requires proposers to demonstrate at least three years of experience in government relations, legislative analysis, and advocacy. The proposal submission deadline is December 26, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. Pacific Time, with an optional virtual pre-proposal conference scheduled for December 18, 2024. The initial contract term will run from January or February 2025 through June 30, 2028, with potential for two additional one-year extensions.

The SCDA encourages proposals from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) and requires proposers to be registered with the California Secretary of State. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the contract will be awarded on a task basis using customary rates with a maximum total payment amount to be determined in the final exhibit. Contractors must maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, professional liability, cyber liability, and workers' compensation, with specific minimum coverage limits. The solicitation emphasizes compliance with federal nondiscrimination requirements, civil rights provisions, reporting obligations, and labor standards. Proposers must submit detailed organizational descriptions, staff qualifications, hourly rates, and references, understanding that final agreement terms will be subject to negotiation. The ultimate goal is to secure a lobbying partner capable of effectively advocating for the Department's priorities and securing technical assistance, planning, design, infrastructure, and service funding for Sacramento County's airport system.