State Lobbying Services

Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners is seeking competitive sealed proposals from qualified lobbying firms to provide state-level governmental representation services. The contract will span three years, with potential two-year renewal options, to represent the Board of County Commissioners and County Administrator before Florida's legislative and executive branches. Proposers must demonstrate ten years of relevant state government experience with proven performance methods and measurable outcomes. Key service requirements include quarterly reporting within fourteen days of each quarter's end, comprehensive final reports after legislative sessions, maintaining ongoing relationships with legislative and executive branch members, and providing written strategic plans at least sixty days before legislative sessions. Evaluation criteria will assess qualifications (30 points), performance (30 points), technical approach (30 points), and cost (10 points), with up to 5 bonus points available for Disadvantaged Minority/Disadvantaged Women Business Enterprise (DM/DWBE) participation of 10% or more. Proposals are due August 20, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time through the County's electronic bidding system (Euna Procurement).

The solicitation includes opportunities for disadvantaged enterprises, with bonus points awarded for DM/DWBE participation of 10% or more. Preliminary tabulation documents reveal seven potential suppliers, including The Southern Group of Florida Inc., SBM Partners Inc., The Mayernick Group, Johnston and Stewart Government Strategies, Pittman Law Group, Shumaker Advisors Florida, and Ballard Partners Inc. Contractors must comply with multiple regulatory requirements, including submitting a Drug-Free Workplace Certification, completing an Affidavit of Compliance regarding foreign countries of concern, and utilizing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify system for new hires. The estimated project budget is $175,000.00 per contract, with the county reserving the right to award to more than one qualified lobbying firm. Prospective contractors must also provide comprehensive insurance coverage and complete a direct deposit authorization form for payment processing.