Term Contract for State Legislative and Governmental Lobbying Services for Seminole County

Seminole County, Florida is seeking one or more consultants to provide state legislative and governmental lobbying services through a term contract. The procurement is structured as a Request for Proposal (RFP-604862-24) with a response deadline of November 20, 2024, at 2:00 pm. The primary objective is to retain lobbyists who can effectively monitor, identify, and prioritize legislative opportunities and challenges at the state level, engaging with the State Legislature, Governor's Office, state agencies, and rule-making bodies. Ideal candidates will demonstrate significant lobbying experience, strong relationships with key governmental entities, and the ability to serve as trusted advisors. The evaluation process will be comprehensive, with proposals scored on two primary criteria: Firm Qualifications and Experience (65% of total points) and Price Proposal (35% of total points). Required deliverables include direct communication with executive and legislative branches, drafting letters and talking points, testifying at hearings, maintaining close working relationships with county staff, and providing regular written reports on legislative activities. The contract will have an initial three-year term with options for two successive one-year renewals, and the first three months are considered probationary.

The solicitation does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract allows for multiple vendors to be selected, pending approval by the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners. Proposers must submit complete electronic proposals through the county's e-Procurement Portal and will be required to comply with various state regulations, including public records laws and E-Verify requirements. Insurance requirements are comprehensive, including workers' compensation, general liability, auto liability, and pollution liability coverage. The pricing structure requires a fixed annual fee for lobbying services, with no additional reimbursable expenses, covering all incidental costs such as services, materials, overhead, profit, and out-of-pocket expenses. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the pricing proposal form is designed for a five-year contract term, suggesting a substantial potential contract value for the selected consultant(s). Proposers will need to demonstrate financial stability, ability to comply with schedules, past performance, and integrity during the evaluation process.