In September 2023, an RFP was let seeking proposals from firms for state lobbying services. A total of six proposals were received of which the top three were selected for interviews. At the conclusion of the interviews, the committee ranked The Southern Group as the top firm.
On November 7, 2023, City Council approved entering into an agreement with The Southern Group for a one-year period. The current contract is due to expire on November 7, 2024, therefore staff is recommending that City Council approve entering into a two-year contract with The Southern Group for the continuation of state lobbying services. If approved, the contract period will span from November 8, 2024 until November 7, 2026.
The Southern Group, under the direction of Mike Moore, represented the City's interests well during the 2024 Florida Legislative Session and was instrumental in securing several key meetings with various legislators which allowed City Council and I to present our views on legislative matters that would impact our city. I am confident that Mr. Moore and his team will continue to do so again for the upcoming legislative session that will begin on March 2, 2025.