State Lobbying Services

Walton County, Florida has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ No: 25-28) seeking a State Lobbying Services consultant to represent the Walton County Board of County Commissioners and the Tourist Development Council before the Florida Legislature, state agencies, the Governor's Office, and the Florida Cabinet. The primary objectives include advancing the County's legislative priorities, securing state funding for identified projects and programs, and protecting the County's interests in pending legislation and regulatory matters. The selected consultant must be an established lobbying organization with proven track record representing Florida counties, established relationships with key policymakers, and demonstrated success in securing funding and advancing legislative initiatives. Specific deliverables include weekly legislative updates during session, monthly reports during the interim period, and a comprehensive post-session report. The evaluation will be qualification-based, using a 100-point scoring system with 50 points for consultant and personnel qualifications, 30 points for relevant experience, and 20 points for approach to the project. The RFQ was posted on September 18, 2025, with proposals due by October 15, 2025. The anticipated contract term is three years, with potential for two additional one-year renewals subject to satisfactory performance and mutual agreement.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. No incumbent vendors are identified in the provided documentation. The RFQ follows Florida Statute 287.055 (Consultants' Competitive Negotiation Act), which means cost negotiations will occur after initial qualification-based selection with the highest-ranked consultant. While no specific budget range is detailed, the contract will involve representing the county's interests across multiple legislative areas including Medicaid, criminal justice, environmental matters, transportation funding, economic development incentives, and health insurance. The selection will be made by a Review Committee chosen by the County Administrator's Office, with negotiations to be conducted with the three best-qualified firms. The ultimate goal is to secure a lobbying partner who can effectively advocate for Walton County's legislative priorities and help secure critical state funding for county projects and initiatives.